Things change

It takes time to solidify everything around the former resistance. With Niran dead, the last of the structure that the Order built crumbles. As much as you want to have a hand in shaping what rises from the ashes, Poena’s words were clear. You must be neutral. In truth, you never wanted to be in charge in the first place. And now, you have other plans, other responsibilities. With all that in mind, you hand off leadership to others.

Lira is a natural choice, and though **** at first, she accepts the responsibility. With Victor and Amara aiding her, she takes the reins, working with nobles and common folk alike to build things once again. On the rare occasions that things get heated, Brianna is there as a strong hand to restore order. From your perspective, it seems like it will work, at least for now.

Victoria and Kaeli move to Hope, where they settle in to live quietly, simply wishing to rest. The people there, wary of the former Order leaders at first, warm to them quickly. The process is sped along by your arrival back in town. Once you vouch for them, the people of Hope accept the pair without much question. The two of them seem grateful, and although they are happy with peace and quiet, they soon become friends with many within the community.

Hope itself is going through changes as well. Though Ben had initially resisted the change from sea captain to mayor, he has flourished in the role. At his side, Bella is an invaluable aid, and the two of them are a shining example of a happy couple. There’s even talk of making them nobility, something that has great support among the townsfolk. Even more surprising is when Bella confides in you that she’s pregnant! You and the girls congratulate them, knowing it was entirely unexpected, but entirely welcome.

Hope is growing, and you suspect that it won’t be long before the town becomes a city in its own right. Even now, the docks are undergoing a transformation into a full fledged port, and the path to Thalberg, once little more than a hunting trail, is becoming a well traveled road. Trade is flowing through the town, and what was once a ramshackle refugee camp is on the verge of becoming a major trade hub.

As for you and yours, you settle into your old home for a time, resting and relaxing. With several of the girls pregnant, you figure that a bit of time to breathe is important. But you know that’s only temporary, because there’s at least one more trip you need to make before you can say things are finished. Looking into the growing port, you see the Horizon still docked there, and you know it’s time to take that trip.