The city was quiet, but it was the quiet that made the danger louder. Aria moved through the dark streets, her black coat blending with the shadows. Every step was careful, every breath measured. The fog hung low, curling around her like hands trying to pull her back. She felt the weight of the message Sebastian had sent. Every word was a knife hidden in silk. He had marked her, not just her empire, but her people.
Lorenzo followed silently behind her. He never spoke unless necessary. His eyes scanned every alley, every doorway, every roof. He had learned to read the city like a book, and tonight, it was a book written in fire and blood.
"Are you sure about this?" he asked, voice low, almost a growl. "He could be waiting."
