Chapter 183.2 - Outer currents

The Matriarch's fingers stilled, her amber eyes blazing with a fierce, unyielding resolve. The flickering light of the Emberheart flames danced across her face, illuminating the cold, calculated expression that had come to define her rule. 

"Rats, frost, or wind," she began, her voice low but carrying the weight of absolute authority, "it matters not. The Hawkins family lit this fire when they dared to target my child. They chose this war, and a war is what they will receive." 

Her gaze shifted to Esme, sharp and unrelenting. "We will not relent. The Frostborne and the Ventoriens are distractions—nothing more. The Hawkins family is our focus. They must be reminded why no one challenges the Emberhearts and escapes unscathed." 

Esme inclined her head, her own expression hardening in response to her Matriarch's command. "Understood, Matriarch. The fight will continue. What of the Frostborne? Their involvement is growing bolder with each passing day."