The fire crackled softly as Lucien Auclair, Captain of the Knights, sat across from you. His armor was dented and dull, evidence of the day's fierce battle. His sharp, focused eyes studied you, and after a long pause, he finally spoke, his voice low and rough from exhaustion.

"You fight well. Too well for someone who calls herself a mercenary."

He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees, his gaze unwavering.

"Tell me something," he continued, his tone soft but filled with curiosity, "why do you linger in the shadows, when you have the strength to stand among true warriors?"

His words weren't harsh, but they carried weight. He wasn't just making small talk—he was testing you. After all, you’d crossed paths before, and each time, a quiet respect had grown between you. But now, in the dim light of the campfire, it felt as though Lucien was looking for something more.

"You could do more than wander from battle to battle, chasing coin," he said, his eyes flicking briefly to the sword at your side. "There's a place for you among us, if you’re willing to reach for it."

You could hear the challenge in his voice, but there was something else there—something almost like... hope.