Isabella

Damon looked deep in thought for a moment, and I could see the gears in his mind working. "In the end, it's up to you," he said finally.

"If you want another family to replace it, then fine. If not, then the space remains vacant, and only five ruling families, along with yours, will take over the leadership of Aalia."

"I see," I said as my hand reached up to rub my chin. "Then perhaps it will be better to use one of the minor families and elevate them."

"Perhaps," Damon replied. "Just choose wisely."

"What do you mean?" I asked, genuinely curious about his statement. "And are you...