THE UNBROKEN

Marisiana, three days after the destruction of the Veracchian estate.

The great halls of Parliament echoed with rising voices and heavy boots.

The Matteo crest hung high, flanked by banners of the Free Territories. Elena's fall and survival had become a legend. And now… her return mattered more than ever.

In the strategy hall, Aurora stood beside a large table strewn with maps and sigil markers. Alejandro leaned over her shoulder, studying the layout of Veracchia's coastal defenses.

"I still think it's a trap," Aurora muttered. She shook her head in disgust.

"And for it to come from Niegal's own mother? She always knew their father died at sea. That's why they were raised by Grandfather in the Free Territories. But this? This is despicable."

"Siobhan wouldn't have let them escape unless she wanted something."

"They're not safe," Alejandro said, rubbing his temples. "Which means we can't stay silent."

The doors swung open behind them.

Phineus entered, not as a boy, but as a young man, tall, armored in sun-dark leather and silversteel, the Matteo crest glinting across his chestplate.

"I'm going," he said without hesitation. "I'm the last Matteo they can't discredit. My blood still carries weight in Veracchia. And they'll listen. Or we'll make them."

Aurora exhaled, unsure if she was proud… or terrified.

"You're still young," she said quietly.

"So were Elena and Seamus when they had to choose."

Alejandro watched the boy- no, the man- and nodded solemnly.

"You'll take our best. Ten from the Stormguard. Three from the mage council. No more. Small. Fast. Quiet."

Phineus inclined his head.

"Thank you."

Phineus bowed his head, but his knuckles were white where they gripped the hilt of his blade.

The room emptied slowly, but Alejandro lingered.

He stood at the window as the banners flapped in the wind.

"He'd be proud, wouldn't he?" he said softly.

Aurora turned to look at him.

"Phineus?"

"No," Alejandro whispered. "Seamus."

He pressed his hand to the glass, voice almost breaking.

"I never got to see him grow into a man."

Aurora stepped close, her hand finding his.

They didn't speak for a long time.

They simply stood together, letting grief hold its place beside hope.