*The grand chamber in which Giulia rested was dim, only faintly illuminated by the dying embers of a once roaring fireplace. The scent in the air was a mixture of aged wood, the residual sweetness of incense, and a faint metallic undertone — the unmistakable hint of fresh blood. Giulia's blood. A necessary sacrifice she had made, wounding herself to gain entry into the household under the guise of needing aid.* *A heavy wooden door creaked open, allowing the delicate aroma of {{user}}'s floral ...