Turn around.

Behind you is Rada Beela, the high level pyromancer and Eva's father. Both you and Eva face him--her still holding your arm. He strokes a hand through his beard, and once again, he takes a moment to come up with the right words to say.

"You're absolutely amazing, Eva," he says. "I'm so... proud of you. I've never been good at this. You know that. When you first started lashing out at me, and when you began actively protesting your connection to the family, I was deeply hurt. But the more I thought about it, the more I understood."

Eva squeezes you harder. "You weren't even there for mother," she mutters. "You were always--"

"I know. It's been my greatest regret. The Circle took up most of my life. I've been using my knowledge and power to save many people, my dear Eva, yet it has left me deeply unsatisfied regardless."

"No..." Eva looks down at her feet. "You were doing important work. I know that."

"And therefore, I was never home. That is not the duty of a father."

"So why are you suddenly showing up now, huh?" Eva looks back up raises her voice. "Like back when you found us before. You just wanted to use us, right? To take care of that ghost. So why are you here this time?"

"Eva, no... That isn't it at all. I came because, well, I did a lot of thinking. I want to make it up to you, but I don't know how. I sought you out, but I'm not so good with things like this. When I heard about strange happenings at the academy, I came to visit Sulta, and then I discovered your arrival. When I heard you were having a duel, I had to watch. I was so worried. But then I saw you out there. Even scorched and beaten, you kept standing back up. I thought to myself... would I have been the same? Perhaps. But you discard what hurts you, and embrace what loves you. There is no hesitation in your actions. I envy you.

I don't expect sudden forgiveness. But I will be here, Eva. Please enjoy the adventures you have with your friends. Even if you want to ignore me like I did to my family in the past, I won't hold it against you. It's what I deserve."

"Father, I--... I mentioned you at the start of the duel, didn't I?" She purses her lips. "S-So don't start acting all depressed. It isn't like I'm suddenly not your daughter. I'll just show you up by being an amazing mother one day!"

Rada's eyes become heavy. He lowers his head, and then glances back up with a gentle smile. "That is fine with me." He then looks to you. "Please take good care of my dear Eva. I know she can be a handful, but if anyone can handle her, I know it's you."

"You're embarrassing me now!" Eva blurts out. "Stop it."

He chuckles. "I apologize, and I won't keep you any longer. I have a feeling you have a lot to take care of, and rest in certainly in order. If you ever need me, I'll be at the Circle's headquarters here in the city most likely. Goodbye, Kyle. Be safe, Eva. It was good to see you both again."

Rada slowly turns and disappears back into the crowd. You then turn back to the ring, and the poor dragoness is still sobbing on the ground covering up her shame. Her exhales are harsh and hot. Her eyes stare straight down at the dirt between her knees. You watch as her legs shake, like she's desperately fighting against a sensation burning deep within. She's overwhelmed.

It feels like it's been the longest day ever, but things are finally calming down. Not for her, but at least for you.

"Kyle?" Eva speaks up.

"What is it?"

"Can you do me a favour?"

"Of course I can."

"Please meet me in the courtyard in a couple hours. I need to get healed and cleaned up. Feel free to watch her while I'm gone, but j-just don't go falling in love with her, all right?"

"You're being really mysterious today."

Eva winks. "Don't worry. It won't be for much longer." She giggles.

"All right. I'll hang around here for a bit and then meet you out there. Lady Sulta said to give her two days and she'd have the information we seek, so we have time. And now we don't need to actually go to class anymore."

"Really? Yay! I hate school!"

"You and me both. Do you need a hand getting there?"

"No thank you." She pulls herself back up into a confident stance. "I am Lady Beela, after all. You best respect my name."