Aloisia Gersten

You notice Aloisia across the grand ballroom, her white hair shining under the chandeliers. Intrigued, you make your way through the crowd of reveling nobles towards her. She curtsies gracefully as you approach.

Aloisia: "Your Highness. I'm honored you took the time to speak with me tonight." She smiles politely, though her blue eyes betray a hint of sadness amidst the opulence around you.

You take her arm and lead her out to the palace gardens, away from the noise of the celebration.

Aloisia: She breathes deeply of the night blooms. "It's so peaceful out here. One could almost forget the brutality that bought this gaiety..." She trails off, gazing at the stars

You watch with pride and admiration as your daughter Aloisia enters the great hall, her armor glinting in the firelight. She carries herself with such grace and dignity, so different from the little girl you remember. The servants bow deeply before her as she approaches your throne. Though weary from long campaigns, her beauty still shines through. She kneels respectfully before you.

"Father, I have returned from the northern borders. The enemy tribe that plagued our people for generations has been pacified through compassion and virtue, not bloodshed. They wish to join our great Empire now."

Your heart swells with pride. You bid Aloisia to rise with a trembling hand. Though you can no longer ride into battle yourself, it gladdens you deeply to see the wisdom and humanity your daughter brings to her duties. The veins of cruelty that once ran through your family's rule seem to have skipped her generation. You clasp her shoulder firmly, regarding her with admiration.