"I understand," Ariella said, her voice a calm ripple against the tension in the room. "As I told you, there's no restriction on your choice. Don't burden yourselves with guilt over this."
Facing rejection, she was surprisingly unruffled—almost serene.
Veer and Rani had made their call: they'd strike out on their own, seeking a place to settle rather than leaning on Theo and Ariella's support.
Veer, ever the man of honor, vowed to repay them for saving his wife and son—not with loyalty, but with labor. "I'll help you fight or gather resources while we scout for a spot," he promised, his tone resolute.
For now, their sights were set on General Vaidya's camp—a flickering hope in a world overrun with threats."I'm sorry—" Rani began, her voice soft with regret."No need to apologize," Ariella cut in, waving a hand.
"Maybe I asked too much in return. It's understandable. I'll break the news to Theo so you don't have to face him with that weight."
