To protect the innocent

Indecision plagued her heart, but it wasn't the first time Mira had to perform a heavy duty. Guilty bludgeoned her believes, but deep down she already knew she couldn't break her word, nor could she hurt children. Her path was arduous, but she took each step in the direction of the wailing kids, ignoring the demon lord's cruel taunts.

A few months before Mira had travelled to the far north, looking to recruit help from the barbarian tribe. She stayed there for many weeks, hunting and singing besides them, to earn their trust and friendship.

She lowered next to the orclings, and embraced them. Their tears were copious, and even if she had no right to wash them she did.

Mira remembered seeing the aftermath of a duel between rivals, the victorious having to face the slain foe's children. He told the kid 'I killed your father in fair duel. Grow up and challenge me when you are ready, and you will have a chance to succeed where he failed"

Mira kissed the forehead of each kid. She spoke soothing words, and even if they didn't understand the language they were touched by the comfort. These were warriors, they would understand her if she told them the very same she heard long ago. Marus wasn't laughing anymore, he spared his breath to mock the paladin later.

"I am sorry for the pain I caused you. I am Mira, Champion of Arlain, paladin of the Sun Goddess." she felt the Goddess blessed aura wrap around her, like a protective mantle. "I set you even further down the slavery path that binds your kind, and in so doing I wronged you."

"Stating the obvious? Or are you apologising ahead of snapping their frail necks? it would be so easy, wouldn't it?" The demon lord cackled his laughter, but Mira didnt take his bait. She continued instead.

"Your paths are your own, and if they eventually take you back to me, I will fight if that is what you wish. But you shall walk with your eyes wide open, for that is the grace of the Sun Goddess" She kissed their foreheads again, leaving the in print of the Goddess holy symbol where her lips touched them.

"Now run" she told and they obeyed, before the infuriated Marus started to bark orders to capture the two ruts. His diabrite was short lived though, for Mira walked to the golden bell and rang it. She was ready to face the worst the Incubus had in store for her, and join her goddess when he failed.