The room was dim, lit only by the gentle flicker of a scented candle in the corner and the soft golden glow of the morning sun bleeding through the sheer curtains. The healer had kept the space quiet, peaceful, and warm—hoping the comfort would help coax Aria back to life.

Talia sat silently by Aria’s bedside, her hands gently clasped over her sister’s. She hadn’t moved much, except to whisper the same silent prayer to the Moon Goddess over and over again.

*“Please bring her back to us… Please…”*

Her eyes were swollen from crying, but her heart had found a calm rhythm. Damon had gone to check on Lucien,...