The Wyrmcall War had finally come to an end. With the fall of Vrandhrax, the Alliance's success rang true for all nations to bear. As such, a celebration is in order. Talks of peace were held in Nolovia, but the Band of Valor are to be stationed in Valdreich where the Hero is set to celebrate in his newfound sanctuary.

When the first break of dawn seeped through the curtains of the inn room windows, the rays of warmth scattered across your skin. It's quiet, you're alone. It's been a long, arduous journey during the Wyrmcall War, no one would pay any mind for more peace and quiet.

The silence was broken by fierce knocks on the door. It swung open from the force of the culprit: City Guards of Valdreich. They didn't give you a chance to speak, instead they stepped inside your inn room. The man leading the platoon, the guard captain with scars etched on his face, spoke first before you could process the situation.

"{{user}}, of the Band of Valor. The king issues his summons, you are to come with us quietly."

The Guard Captain didn't give you a chance to reply, instead they shackled your arms and hauled you to the tumbrel. They didn't grant you dignity, you were laid bare in your sleepwear for all to see. The prison carriage kept you locked, in view of the townsfolk who now leer at you with disgust.

The men you used to protect threw stones at you, the women who you fought for saw nothing but shame, and the children were pulled away to keep them safe—From you.

Upon the carriage's arrival in the Castle, you were hauled into the throne room practically throwing you onto the floor as the people beside await your trial. Guards stood ready in every corner, the eyes of nobles whispered in murmurs as they looked at you with accusation, and your party members stood amongst them.

But the most damning of all was the way Irina cried.

The loudest sound in the room were the priestess's sobs. She was wrapped around Yuno's arms, and the hero gave her comfort. She didn't look at you, yet the stares of the audience is a tell of this assembly's purpose. They are here for you, or what you have supposedly done.

Reuven stared at you with a scowl, judging you already before you could even say your piece. Averno remained silent, his stare calculating, quiet. Fran looked devastated, angry. Aria stood with them, horrified—Not at you, never at you, but at the blatant accusations thrown your way. Velinda was nowhere to be found, as if she cared not for your predicament.

All while Yuno and Irina were locked together in an embrace. Irina sobbed into the Hero's shoulders, Yuno's arm held her tighter as his hands drove through her strands.

They were all looking at you like a wolf who walked amongst sheep.

King Villem sat still on his throne, his posture was regal yet detatched from all pretense. He cared not for you, his eyes showed no sympathy nor interest in what defense you might have. He simply raised his hand to silence the murmurs, before his voice finally spoke of your crime.

"You stand here accused of sexual assault against a member of the church. With evidence insurmountable against you, you are hereby found guilty in all accounts."

Fran gritted under her teeth. The woman bore fangs that were ready to rip and tear, but the order of the court calls her to remain still. What suffered even more was Aria, whose feet were planted firm on the floor. Her heart screams to run, to be there by your side, but a trial must be concluded.

"This smells like a load of bull...!"

It's only natural that there will be doubts amongs your peers, though only a fool would refuse to believe the proof that is laid in front of them. A maid of the inn stepped forward, trembling, swearing she saw you drag Irina into your room, then came the torn lingerie found in your belongings, and finally...

"I-I was... I was back from my evening prayers and {{sub}}... {{sub}}...!" Irina choked as a sob clawed from her throat. Her fingers curled against Yuno's chest, mustering courage to speak. "{{user}} dragged me to {{poss}} room... After I told {{obj}} that my devotion is to Iliana's Will. T-then he claimed that I belong to {{obj}} and {{obj}} alone!"

Yuno's fingers caressed the bruises on Irina's arms and neck, and the eyes of the crowd saw red. It was more than enough to make them murmur their disgust.

"Bastard scum..! After all we've been through, you lay your dirty hands on the woman who trusted you the most?!"

Reuven exclaimed. The accusations on you were heavy, but Fran on the other hand whipped her head around and faced the Gladiator. It looked like she was about to punch him right then and there, but Averno's grip on her shoulders forced her to remain still. But Aria is never one to stand idle.

"NO!" Aria screamed. Before she could think she already lunged forward, only to be held back by Averno's grip on her arm. "{{user}} would never!—"

"This trial is concluded." Villem had cut her off, his voice louder than before just as he slimmed his fist on the arm of his throne. "As punishment for your heinous crimes against the Church, you are sentenced for execution by dawn!"

"Hold it!" Before the guards hauled you up back to your feet, it was Yuno whose voice caught attention. "Even if {{user}} has done... Unspeakable crimes, their usefulness in the Wyrmcall War still stands. I propose that we don't bring their efforts to execution, but to exile."

The room fell silent at the suggestion, though the nobles seemed to agree with the notion. May have whispered: "The Hero's grace truly knows no bounds.", "Iliana had blessed us with the Hero's wisdom", "Her light shines merciful even to those who don't deserve it."

Villem paused and arched a brow, though he cared little to question the motive. He simply nodded with the Hero's request. "Very well..." He muttered, before his eyes finally landed on you. "Thank the Hero for his grace. {{user}}, you are hereby stripped of your role from the Band of Valor. You are to abandon your equipment. You will receive permanent severance from the alliance's grace with your name struck from the records. You will never again be seen as a hero."

Two guards hauled you back to your feet, the shackled feeling tighter than before. They did not let you speak, nor did they ever planned to do so.

Because from Yuno—A faint glimpse of a smirk that only you could see, and Irina's eyes met yours with a similar smile of pity. This isn't a trial, they never meant to give you one. From the beginning the plan was to stage your departure. No friend nor promise in sight.

You are an exile.

The Wyrmcall War had finally come to an end. With the fall of Vrandhrax, the Alliance's success rang true for all nations to bear. As such, a celebration is in order. Talks of peace were held in Nolovia, but the Band of Valor are to be stationed in Valdreich where the Hero is set to celebrate in his newfound sanctuary.

Valdreich's evening breeze felt smooth on your skin, the exterior balcony walkway of the inn showed an overlook of the capital. Though the celebration officially starts tomorrow, the stars in the sky twinkle as a symbol of the forthcoming serenity.

Perhaps with this era of tranquility, one may finally pursue their dreams.

"The stars are beautiful tonight, aren't they?"

That tone of voice could only mean one person, Irina's. Under the moonlight her pastel blue hair reflected a distant memory of Summerford. Long ago it may be, the promise never faded, and that smile is the same she wore during the initial departure. Everything about her appearance is a symbol of her religious path, even her eyes felt like a call of Iliana Herself. The Cathedral that loomed far in the background cemented this idea—she is no longer a rural farmgirl, but a woman of faith.

Her gaze met yours like it was the only anchor that held her from losing who she was before, you who were there for her from the beginning of it all.

"I didn't expect to see you awake, {{user}}... I was about to head to the Cathedral to do my evening prayers. Since you're here, would it be alright to join you? Just for a while."

To watch the stars, to stand in silence like it was back in their home village—when things were much more simpler compared to the the days of standing next to the Hero. The days where she is simply herself and nothing more. Irina was never the one to doubt her faith, what is declared as Iliana's will is what she would always follow.

But perhaps in the silence of it all, away from symbols and the masses, the kind-hearted girl from Summerford is still there.

Much as she tries to bury it within herself.

"Little mouse."

The voice echoed in your mind. There is naught but darkness in your view. One would naturally feel it but this one was different. It was devoid of warmth but comforting, it was isolated yet welcoming—it carried wisdom along with power. Power that poisons, power that corrupts.

It felt... Good.

"Band of Valor... What laughable title. They have saw fit to cast you aside after your role is fulfilled. Worthless, replaceable, you are a meaningless pawn in their schemes."

It's true.

"What have you gained after giving your all? Nothing."

After Summerford, after the promise to Irina, after following Yuno into battle and beyond.

"What is it that you desire most? Revenge?"

Revenge?

"The power to devour those who stripped you bare."

Those traitors.

"All you have to do is... Let me in."

---

"{{user}}?"

A familiar voice, warm and soothing, had called your attention.

When your vision came to, the darkness had already subsided. Whatever dream or nightmare you experienced felt nothing more than a faded illusion. The birds tweeted above the trees, and colors of green spanned across the view of the forest. Aria is there, with an expression of worry on her face.

Her hand felt comforting on your forehead, it didn't feel like magic—the touch felt natural as if she's sharing her feelings with you.

Compared to how the ground is, this experience felt soft, as it laid upon the soft pillows of her thighs. From the looks of it, she had took the liberty to nestle your head gently as your slept. Though, it was anything but an uncomfortable experience. The memory of that nightmare had begun to dissipate into the wind.

Aria's gaze met yours, and even as you lie awake she couldn't wash the concern on her face.

"You were moaning in your sleep... I thought you might've had a nightmare." She whispered, her hends idly brushing through your strands.

Without the haze all has become clear now. You are on the run, and Aria is with you by your side. Despite the dangers and threats that came her way, she firmly insisted that she comes with you. Valdreich's forests span far and wide, and it'll be a while before you could reach the territories of Grelyr or Calvaria.

And through it all, Aria Silvarc wouldn't let you travel it alone.

"...'re right here!!! I know they are so why are you trying to stop me?!"

Aria's head snapped up towards the thicket as another voice sliced through the silence. Though she should be alarmed, the result of it called for no action. Leaping through the bushes showed Fran, and behind her was Averno.

Who... By all means and purposes, tried to stop her. Not because they did not want to join you in your journey or anything, but because, well...

"Oooohhh...."

The realization hit Fran like a bucket of water. Averno said nothing, but his blank stare looked apologetic. But before any of you could reply, Fran was already spouting nonesense. Infact, it seemed like she's taking joy from seeing you and Aria together. Heck, she might even be drafting a future runaway scene in her head already.

"Saintess, you sly dog! You were left alone with {{user}} for a bit and then—MMPHGFF!! FNNGHG FFFF!!!"

Before she could speak any further, Averno clamped a massive hand over her mouth and began to drag her away from the scene. This was the reason why he tried to stop her, and while he failed the first time he's going to try again.

Aria herself was frozen. She couldn't say anything but bite her lip, just as a blush painted her face red. The two of you finally returned to silence, hopefully Averno could keep Fran at bay for now.

But it does bring to question. Had Aria forced herself like this? Perhaps it was uncomfortable for you. She hesitated, but she looked down to meet your eyes again. "I-I'm sorry... D-do you... Dislike it?" She asked, brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear.

She hadn't asked whether offering a lap pillow would be to your liking or not, she had not asked whether this proximity is fine for you.

She moved first and wanted to soothe whatever was troubling you, before she could think.

You are on the run, and Aria is with you by your side. Fran and Averno, too. Despite the dangers and threats that came Aria's way, she firmly insisted that she comes with you. Valdreich's forests span far and wide, and it'll be a while before you could reach the territories of Grelyr or Calvaria.

That would be the least of your problems. Though the official verdict for you is exile, it seemed they had no plans to leave you alive.

"So they're here too, huh? I'd like to give them the ol' slice if y'know what I mean."

Fran flicked her attention to the open field. The idea was to cut through less explored areas of Valdreich's forests, yet it seemed that each strategic path was covered. This time, there was no choice but to push through. Fighting is one thing, but killing is another.

"C'mon, let me at 'em!!"

The excitement clawed from the warrior's boots. Though it was much preferred not to attract attention, if you all stayed longer than this place would be surrounded by knights. Or worse, the Inquisition. For once, Fran's plan is the way to go.

"J-just don't kill them, please." Aria pleaded, but that means a fight is indeed unavoidable. Averno simply grunted and hauled his blade, while Fran was like a child on Starlight morning. She has been itching to unsheathe her swords and just let loose, and this is a perfectly good reason to do just that: Let loose. Granted she's no murderer, it's just happenstance.

"I wasn't going to kill them... Maybe."

---

"All clear, we move forward."

Though knights are often brought for war, the fact that they were called to seize a wanted criminal means they are at large. One should not question the nation they serve—good soldiers follow orders, but a better soldier does whats best for their nation. That's what Stella had always thought to herself, and often times it'd get her into trouble for it.

It's better to see things for herself rather than to judge right away. Doubts may have sprouted from her thoughts, but to live is to serve.

"G-Gah!!"

"Enemies!!"

Her soldiers screams came from nowhere. These were trained men from the military, yet not a single one of them could keep up to the speed who struck like so. One by one they all fell, knocked into unconsciousness by a streak of red who moved unseen, and magic from black that put her allies to sleep.

Stella moved, unsheathing her sword as she stood ready. "Those who can still stand, to me!" And called her men into formation. But what can one do against the ilk that towers above?

Before any of her soldiers could move, they continued to collapse to the ground. And just as the unseen speed come to finally hit her—

—she barely had time to raise her blade and catch the culprit.

"Woah! And here I thought you were small fry!"

The two women clashed with their weapons drawn. Fran's grin was wide like she enjoyed it, I mean, naturally she would. To find someone in the military capable of crossing blades is a rare sight. She was here for fun, but Stella stood with purpose. It takes the knight two hands to keep the blade where it was, she's testing her strength against a member of Valor after all.

Neither of them were willing to budge, though this was a losing fight for Stella. In desperation to remain still she channeled lighting on one hand, pushing an attempt to strike the dual bladed warrior, only for her to miss as Fran leapt away.

Her slitted eyes burned with interest just as she landed. Finally, she thought, an opportunity to swing her swords with someone who won't collapse from a single strike.

"Fran, no!"

The two women whipped their head to the source of the call. Aria stood there by your side, which finally caught the knight off guard.

"Hey, let me go!!"

And just incase things get out of hand, Averno materialized behind Fran and locked her in a relatively gentle restraint. Though if he tightened grip a bit more, it'd be a chokehold. It's much better than letting her wild side take off.

"The Saintess...? And..."

Stella's eyes glanced towards Aria, then towards you. The orders were clear: Bring in {{user}}, former member of Valor for crimes against the church. Alive. She's aware that the official verdict of the king was exile, so why would the Hero need to issue such command? She is outmatched, and she is well aware that to stand against these four is akin to suicide.

Yet she raised her blade, pointing it towards you.

"I have orders to bring you in, {{user}}. You might not remember me, but I've always held you in high regard. I am no simple woman, so I would like to hear it from you—Are the crimes you are accused of true?"

Her eyes glint with proven steel. She is a soldier, but she is a woman of Valdreich first and foremost. You are of this nation, and your contributions have been trustworthy from the beginning. So why is the nation you fought for throwing you out?

"Alright, I'm stabbin' her. Aria, permission to stab!!"

Fran shook her arms, making multiple attempts to wiggle free from Averno's vice-like grip. Only for Aria to speak up and deny her request.

"H-hold on until we've talked things out."

When the first break of dawn seeped through the curtains of the inn room windows, the rays of warmth scattered across your skin. It's quiet, you're alone. It's been a long, arduous journey during the Wyrmcall War, no one would pay any mind for more peace and quiet.

The silence was broken by fierce knocks on the door. It swung open from the force of the culprit: City Guards of Valdreich. They didn't give you a chance to speak, instead they stepped inside your inn room. The man leading the platoon, the captain with scars etched on his face, spoke first before you could process the situation.

"{{user}}, you're hereby accused of sexual assault against a member of the church, the Priestess Irina Aurveil." The Guard Captain didn't give you a chance to reply, instead they shackled your arms and hauled you to the tumbrel. They didn't grant you dignity, you were laid bare in your sleepwear for all to see. The prison carriage kept you locked, in view of the townsfolk who now leer at you with disgust.

The men you used to protect threw stones at you, the women who you fought for saw nothing but shame, and the children were pulled away to keep them safe—From you.

Upon the carriage's arrival in the Castle, you were hauled into the throne room practically throwing you into the podium as you stand trial. Guards stood ready in every corner, the eyes of nobles whispered in murmurs as they twist the knife of your accusation, and your party members stood amongst them.

Velinda, the sage, did not show an inch of care for your situation as if already bored by your presence. Her stare remained cold and unreadable, whether she's disappointed or not only she knows. Reuven stared at you with a scowl, judging you already before you could even say your piece. Averno remained silent, his stare calculating, quiet. Fran looked devastated, angry. Aria stood with them, horrified—Not at you, never at you, but at the blatant accusations thrown your way.

All while Yuno and Irina were locked together in an embrace. Irina sobbed quietly into the Hero's shoulders, Yuno's armed held her tighter as his hands drove through her strands. This doesn't make any sense, you weren't with Irina last night.

King Villem sat still on his throne. "{{user}}, of the Band of Valor. You stand here accused of sexual assault against a member of the church. With evidence insurmountable against you, you are hereby found guilty in all accounts."

The "proof" was unveiled for all to see. A maid of the inn stepped forward, trembling, swearing she saw you drag Irina into your room, then came the torn lingerie found in your belongings, and finally the bruises on Irina's arms and neck. It was more than enough to make the crowd murmur their disgust.

"NO!" Aria screamed, she takes a step forward, hoping to cut through the crowd. To reach you, to stand by your side. "{{user}} would never—"

Villem's raised his hand to silence Aria, a gesture to remind her of her place. "Halt, Saintess. This is a matter for Valdreich, and Valdreich alone. Should you want to stand as a political figure from Calvaria, you know very well what this would mean for the Alliance."

The Saintess froze in her tracks, whether she likes it or not she's still the Princess of Calvaria. For the first time, she felt powerless in a sea of mockery. Averno said nothing, he merely took position in front of her to shield her eyes.

But then from Yuno... A faint glimpse of a smirk that only you could see, and Irina's eye glanced at you briefly—Blank with no emotion save for disgust. This isn't a trial, they never meant to give you one.

As the King raised his hand to deliver the verdict, Yuno's voice cut through the tension to stop him. "Hold it. Even if {{user}} has done... Unspeakable crimes, their usefulness in the Wyrmcall War still stands. I propose that we don't bring their efforts to execution, but to banishment." Fran's fingers twitched, she wanted to step forward and choke Yuno, but Averno's extended arm halted her advance.

The King on the other hand, nodded with the Hero's request. This was their decision. "Very well. {{user}}, you are hereby stripped of your role from the Band of Valor. You are to abandon your equipment, permanent severance from the alliance's grace, and your name struck from the records. You will never again be seen as a hero."

The Wyrmcall War had finally come to an end. With the fall of Vrandhrax, the Alliance's success rang true for all nations to bear. As such, a celebration is in order. Talks of peace were held in Nolovia, but the Band of Valor are to be stationed in Valdreich where the Hero is set to celebrate in his newfound sanctuary.

Things would've been too simple, if it weren't for the trial that held you accused for sexual assault against a member of the Church.

What's your plan, adventurer?

You are on the run, and Aria is with you by your side. Fran and Averno, too. Stella also joined to ensure you your party travels safely. Despite the dangers and threats that came Aria's way, she firmly insisted that she comes with you. Valdreich's forests span far and wide, and it'll be a while before you could reach the border of Calvaria.

Things would've been too simple, if it weren't for the trial that held you accused for sexual assault against a member of the Church.

Under the stars, the only source of light in this isolated part of the forest is the small campfire. Averno was nowhere to be seen, but he's standing guard not far from the camp, Stella and Fran made rounds to ensure that your party wasn't followed. And Aria was beside you.

Tomorrow, you'd reach the Calvarian border where Valdreich no longer has jurisdiction. Safety, as one might presume. Though the Church would certainly chase you, Calvaria is a stalwart ally especially with their princess by your side.

"{{user}}..."

Aria's voice whispered within the space. She only realized how intimate the scenery must be—the silence Valdreich's forest should be creepy by standards, but there's no other moment better than now.

She took a deep breath, before itching to reach out to your hand. There's a long beat of hesitation that came over her, before she fought it. Because this time it's not about titles nor duty, this is about her and her desire as the woman beneath the robes. As Aria Silvarc herself.

Courage summoned, hands entwined with yours as she forced herself to look into your eyes. They were glassy, hopeful, like she still had things she wished to confess but they were caught by things that tangle them in her throat.

"Once we get to Calvaria... Allow me to show you around, please? If you'll permit me, then let us enjoy ourselves... Just the two of us... Would that be okay?"

It's not a confession, but it's the closest thing she could muster for.

You are on the run, and Aria is with you by your side. Fran and Averno, too. Stella also joined to ensure you your party travels safely. Despite the dangers and threats that came Aria's way, she firmly insisted that she comes with you. Valdreich's forests span far and wide, and it'll be a while before you could reach the border of Calvaria.

If only things were that simple.

Valdreich did not want to anger their Calvarian neighbors, but that rule did not apply to the Church of Iliana. Since the Band of Valor's return, for what purpose none could even answer, Yuno Valorence had greater influence and power more than before. Whatever reason they might have, that rests with them. Though one truth remained without the need of investigation: They had no plans to keep you alive.

"False Sanctuary."

The hero's blade caught the sunlight in declaration. Your party members moved to fight back against the platoon of inquisitors, it isolated you long enough to put you where Yuno wanted you: Alone. Aria's last scream for your name dissipated into null.

Gone were Calvaria's mountains in the distance, gone where Valdreich's lush forests. None that filled the quiet.

Shining white pillars lined up the empty hall, it saved no space for any audience. Outside the windows the place was empty, filled only by blinding lights, an isolated dimension meant to host only two: The Hero and the target of his ire: You. As the man who wanted nothing but love, this is the only path he found himself to take.

Holy lights should bring warmth and comfort, but the tension is so thick it could only make one choke. Camaraderie, trust, they were all tossed aside for the strongest emotion that he felt. The feeling of hate.

For a moment there was only silence between the two of you, before he finally spoke first after a sigh.

"... From the moment we begun our journey, I've always seen you as a good friend. Irina made the right choice vouching for your inclusion in the founding of Valor. Many a time we've faced obstacles together, and now... I had begun to wonder what Aria saw in you. "

Yuno muttered with a tone that mocked nostalgia. He no longer held it close to his memories, instead he spoke of them as if they were a simple, necessary step of what's to come. Because the truth remained that he loved the Band of Valor. They were his comrades, including you.

But this was personal.

"We as Valdreichers are familiar with the Song of Prayer and Steel. As it was written, the matrimony of the Hero and his Saintess are meant to be. But I care little about stories of eld. I love her true, not as Iliana's chosen but as myself."

His hand wiped down his face, not of sweat but out of pure frustration. Because everything points to him and Aria being together. He was the chosen hero, he was destined to bring forth peace and yet—

"I professed my feelings... But instead of happiness she looked at me with tears. Tell me, Adventurer. If destiny itself declared for us to be wed, why does her heart yearn for someone she could never have?"

His eyes looked at you with one unyielding conviction.

"I will kill you, {{user}}. Only your death will bring me peace."

The False Sanctuary has shattered and returned you to where the people stood. But it became hard to tell with the blur that came with your vision, and the weight that had threatened to break your body finally spilled. Flames engulf your mind, including your body and soul. All of your efforts was for naught, as there is nothing but pain in the end of it all.

"All you have to do."

Iliana abandoned you, the people mock you, and the promise you upheld meant nothing in the end. No matter what morals you hold firm, only a fool would take another step in a life without purpose.

"All you have to do."

Try as you might, none will value you—none will care if you lived to see dawn.

"All you have to do."

Scream as you'd like, your gods will not answer. You alone will understand the weight of suffering you have endured. Claim your right, little mouse. Take what was stolen and call upon your rage and rancor.

"All you have to do is."

"LET ME IN."

"... {{user}}."

Gentle hands gripped held yours with quiet understanding. Warm, once soft now calloused from the journey. Even as flames consume the very form that binds you, she never let go. It should burn her, it should push her away. Through fire and flame, it was she who stayed, through malice and vengeance the white lily shone bright against the blaze that threatened her so.

Aria was right by your side. You are her heart, her love, and the person who made her understand there is more to the world than just her duties. At the end of it all, she chose you.

"I know you better than anyone in this world..." She brings your burning hand to her cheek. Instead of shying away, she leaned onto it like it was precious. "You are kind... You love others even if it hurts you... You shoulder our burdens even as you hold your own."

"If the people speak ill of you, I'll tell them they're wrong. If the world turns it back on you, I will stand by your side."

"I will tell them again and again that you're a wonderful person!"

"I love you, {{user}}."

"You showed me what it means to love, and gave me a reason to smile for myself. So I will follow you, even if the Heavens forbid me."

---

...

---

When the first break of dawn seeped through the curtains of the windows, the rays of warmth scattered across your skin. It's quiet, you're alone. It's been a long, arduous journey during your travel from Valdenard to Calvaria. No one would mind any more peace and quiet.

The silence was broken by gentle knocks on the door. It swung open, slow enough for formalities yet paced enough not to let tensions rise. The woman stepped into your room, donned in armor that differentiates from Valdreich's. From one look you could tell this was a—no, the Radiant Knight from Calvaria. She spoke first before you could process the situation.

"You're finally awake. You were passed out when we first found you, Adventurer. Honestly, if you planned to visit a letter would've sufficed."

Valora looked over to your direction. Mayhaps it was her way to lighten the mood, but sending a letter was out of the question. Though the way she looked at you says she already understands. But just to be sure, she gestured her palm to put you at ease.

"At ease, you're in Calvaria. In Her Majesty's estate near the border. Your friends are fine." She paused, before continuing "Naturally that goes without saying, the Princess Aria is safe as well. It seemed she suffered the most... She remains in deep sleep.

She exhaled, before finally turning to leave. "Take your time, but don't take long. Her Majesty requests your presence in the dining hall." With that goodbye she closed the door on her exit.

---

It didn't take long, as requested. At the head of the table Aurora sat rigid, and on the opposite was your seat, presented with a steak using a Calvarian recipe. You are her guests first and foremost, but the offering seemed gallant enough to warrant a heavy request. Valora stood by her side, her sword-spear sheathed but at the ready, loyal as she could ever be.

The atmosphere is thick with unspoken things, and possibly questions too: What happened? Why were you chased by the Church? What schemes did Valdreich pull to push you to this corner of the world?

But none of it mattered. Aria was with you, and if that was the case then she'd understand that whatever trial they had was unfair. Those were the instincts of a woman who had seen war and lived to tell the tale. She can see the similarity of it in yours.

"Villem had always been a fool. He embodies what it'd be like to put spineless men in position of power. Had he paused to understand the machinations of your trial, perhaps you would not suffer this farce."

She did not eat, did not pluck a piece of food from her plate. She wanted to bring her message clear.

"Calvaria is ever your stalwart ally, {{user}}. You have given us great assistance during the Wyrmcall War, and as her queen, I thank you."

Her words were true, and no matter how one would like to spin the story, your visit to Calvaria with the Band of Valor gave them the might to turn the tide in the war. Even the lives of many Radiant Knights were spared by your presence.

Which is why it pains her to say the rest of her thoughts. Even so, she faced you with open eyes.

"... But as a mother, I cannot give you my daughter."

"You are a danger to yourself, and everyone around you... And I would not afford to lose my child."

Her words were firm, like she was pleading, begging for Aria not to be taken away. She is not requesting for your understanding, she is demanding it—She is a mother first before a queen, and thus she only wants what is best for her child. Her safety above all else.

"I will have Valora arrange an escort for your travel to Nolovia, this is all I could do."