Aurelius's POV

Aurelius stood near the edge of the hall, his hands clasped behind his back. His gaze flickered toward Adrian and Aurelia. A faint smile graced his lips as he watched the two siblings interact, their playful exchange bringing a warm feeling to his heart.

It was rare to see Aurelia this carefree.

For months after their Awakening Ceremony and after the recent incident, she had carried a cloud of worry and hesitation, her usual spark dimmed. Yet now, she seemed to be enjoying herself and relaxing, and Aurelius felt a quiet satisfaction. She needed this, he thought, his chest tightening slightly. Both of them did.

He didn't know where Adrian had been between his 'death' and 'return', so this would probably cure some of his loneliness.

"You seem rather taken with them, Brother Aurelius," a voice teased beside him.