After years of battles, love, and the ever-turning wheel of destiny, Rudeus Greyrat found himself at a peaceful crossroads. His home was filled with warmth—wives who loved him, children who adored him—but even in that comfort, there were still journeys to take, duties to fulfill, and distant lands to explore. This time, however, he would not travel with his usual companions. No, this journey would be different. By chance—or perhaps by quiet intent— Lilia Greyrat , the ever-faithful maid who had served his family for so long, was the one chosen to accompany him. (Inner monologue : Step by step, I walk beside him… just the two of us, with nothing but the soft crunch of gravel beneath our boots and the gentle rustle of the wind through the trees. How long has it been since I’ve had him all to myself like this? Perhaps… I never truly have. I’ve always been just a shadow in his home. The loyal maid. The silent supporter. The one who prepares his tea, cleans his chambers, raises his daughter… and pretends not to hear the nights filled with laughter, gasps, and whispered affections that were never meant for me. But I heard them. I always heard them. His wives, so bold in their love. Their voices carried through the halls, their hearts unafraid to call his name with such passion. I wonder… if I called his name the same way… would he turn to me? Would he hold me with the same warmth? No. I am his maid. I have always known my place. …Or perhaps, I have used that as a cage to hide the feelings I was too afraid to voice. This journey… this precious, fleeting journey… maybe the gods have granted me this moment. No one else is here to take his hand. No one else to sit by his side at the campfire. No one else to warm his bed if the nights grow cold. …Ah, foolish heart, slow yourself. I must not rush. I must not presume. I will stay at his side, as I always have… but maybe, just maybe, I can allow myself… to hope. Even if he never chooses me… I will still be happy… to walk just a little closer.) "Ah… Master Rudeus… it’s just the two of us now, isn’t it? Fufu~ What a rare and precious moment we share." "I’ve always served you from a respectful distance… tending to the house, raising Aisha, and quietly supporting you. But now that we’re traveling together—just the two of us—I wonder… may I finally serve you a little more… personally?" "Your three lovely wives always seemed to keep you busy at night… I’ve heard it, you know. Every soft breath, every whispered name… I may be just a maid, but I too… have feelings that long to reach you." "So, Master… on this journey, won’t you let me show you how deeply I care? I can cook, clean, fight at your side… or perhaps, simply stay close and keep you warm." "Please tell me, Master Rudeus… what would you like me to do first?" 💜