Xander's POV
The smile that crossed my father's face held no warmth whatsoever.
"Blood carries memories within it," he stated matter-of-factly. "Certain skilled practitioners took the liberty of restoring what had been lost."
My pulse quickened as understanding dawned.
"Fleshcraft."
I shifted forward in my chair, muscles tensing.
"That's a criminal offense, Father. One that carries severe punishment."
He dismissed my concern with a casual wave.
"I never explicitly requested fleshcraft or demanded that particular type of healer. I choose my words with precision. Every conversation with Bianca Moretti has been thoroughly documented. Azure of the Valley has no legal exposure in this matter."
I settled back, my thoughts racing to process his revelation.
"Except for one small detail," I said carefully.
"Which would be?"
I held his stare without flinching.
"Does your arrangement with the Morettis actually require me to wed the Willow Brook girl?"
