Over the next several days, Aria proved invaluable. With little fanfare, she reorganized the inner logistics of the Ricca Guild—retraining staff, replacing corrupt officials, and drafting new security protocols. Her precision was surgical.
She also quietly began helping with refugee nobles—those like herself displaced or endangered by ongoing power struggles in the neighboring Beltrum kingdom.
One evening, Liselotte invited Jon, Sam, Ren, and Aria to a private dinner in the estate gardens.
Liselotte:
"I want this to be a place where people like Aria can find purpose again. We can't change the world alone. But together—"
Sam (nodding):
"Together, we can build something that lasts. Something fair."
Jon (raising a glass):
"To second chances."
Aria (softly):
"And to those strong enough to give them."
---
As the sun set behind the mountains, the small group sat surrounded by lanterns and the gentle rustling of trees. Their circle had grown stronger. Each with wounds, each with purpose.
And in the distance, the flames of war and intrigue still burned—but for tonight, they rested under stars, planning a brighter dawn.