'To Sacrifice For The Sake Of Sacrifice'

"W-What? Why are you—"

"You're thinking about something dangerous, Your Highness. Whatever it is—don't." Lucius's voice was low but edged with authority, his eyes sharp with warning.

Florian's brows furrowed, unease tightening his chest. 'How does he know…?' he wondered, a cold shiver creeping up his spine.

"Your Highness?" Cashew's worried voice broke through the tension. His small face was scrunched in concern, lips trembling as he tried to understand what was happening.

Florian forced a faint smile, though it didn't reach his eyes. "Everything's okay, Cashew. All right?" He cupped the boy's cheek gently. 'I'm sorry you have to go through this—see this—at such a young age.'

Despite the ache twisting in his chest, his resolve hardened. He had to do this. There was no other way.