The Book of Life

Diana, Matthew, and their families return to Sept-Tours to christen Philip and Rebecca and induct them into the Knights of Lazarus. Concerned about Rebecca’s constant hunger, Diana tries supplementing her breast milk with blood, worrying Matthew due to the risk of blood rage. Baldwin surprises and concerns everyone by signing the paperwork declaring Diana a member of the de Clermont family.

Ysabeau gifts Diana and Matthew with a nearby castle, Les Revenants, to celebrate their one-year anniversary. The family moves, and Diana becomes absorbed in sorting through Philippe’s old documents.

The christening is a grand event attended by over 100 people, including the Knights of Lazarus members. For Diana’s comfort, Matthew divides the event. The traditional witch’s naming ceremony is held at the temple of the goddess, while the christening takes place in the church. Both ceremonies proceed smoothly until the end of the christening when Baldwin unexpectedly enters the church.

This chapter alternates between Diana’s first-person narration and third-person point of view from Matthew’s perspective. Matthew restrains Baldwin and demands that Baldwin accept the establishment of his scion. Baldwin initially refuses, citing the difficulty of controlling the blood rage, prompting Matthew to admit his tainted blood.