It all started a few weeks after the White Haven incident with Azriel and Nol.
Azriel was supposed to rest—his parents and sister were worried, and he wasn't allowed to train.
But instead of complaining, he obliged.
He didn't want to make them anxious.
But did that mean he was going to sit idle?
Of course not!
His plan had always been to change the future, and he had already begun putting everything in motion.
Knowing that Nol still possessed Dante's blood, he made Nol invite Dante to another meeting, convincing him to fully join their side.
Though Azriel wasn't privy to the details of what Nol said, the task was completed flawlessly, and Dante offered more of his blood afterward.
Next came the Christmas banquet.
Azriel's grand entrance and his duel with Caleus—at first glance, Freya assumed it was all to impress her, to get her to follow Azriel's wishes.