Dolce prays without words. 

The wood creaks beneath his leaping hooves. One-and-two-and-three, and tumult rises to devour each sound as it appears. No one will see the next steps of his dance. No one, save for the goddess for who found favor with his dance. This joy is for her alone.

A hunter would stab the unprotected back given the opportunity. But this is not the sword of a hunter. It was only passed on by a hunter, wasn’t it? A gift to open up a path. One that leads past Bella’s back, and ends in taking Ember’s hand. To whoever sent this gift, he will thank them by using it properly.

He doesn’t speak. He doesn’t hesitate. He doesn’t close his eyes…completely.

He lunges for the heart.

Please, Artemis. 

Do not let him sacrifice anything needlessly.