The estate was closer than the Diamond, but - Lucanis still couldn't bring himself to go there. Without Caterina, what would change? He felt guilty, leaving the already too empty house to just Illario, but with the tension between them, it was probably a blessing for Illario to not have to deal with Lucanis, with the demon he carried.

He just felt numb, like he'd fallen into the canals in winter again. He was a blade - an blades did not feel hurt, did not feel anything, did not question or doubt.

Blades didn't get kissed so softly just above their ear.

"... alright."