"You're fortunate, Haleth," Galad remarked with a sharp gaze fixed on me.

I sighed, offering a subtle bow to conceal any traces of irritation. "Indeed, sir. My apologies; I should have been able to stop her."

"If Elanor hadn't spoken on your behalf, you might have faced exile once again," Galad continued, as though my words had fallen on deaf ears.

"As I mentioned, I regret any trouble caused," I replied, a hint of disdain lacing my words.

Seemingly oblivious to the disdain, he scoffed dismissively. "Damn you Haleths, always getting a pass..." It appeared he had no intention of ending his tirade soon. If only I still held a higher rank, I would have excused myself much earlier.

After enduring his tirade, I exited, strolling into the corridors. Retrieving my journal—a suggestion from Gerald, who believed it would serve as a therapeutic outlet—I began recording my thoughts.

It had been weeks since the chaos of Mani's prison break. Like Galad said, I was lucky. The main reason I was spared a harsher punishment was that I was the main contributor to identifying Mani's origins. I was given a pass and allowed to remain in the military, only after Elanor's impassioned defense during the trial

"He demonstrated loyalty to Ylvanna," she argued. I couldn't recall my emotions when she emphasized my willingness to execute Ylvanna's every command. How I divulged every detail during my time with Mani, how I pursued and subdued her in that forest...

How I was so willing to participate in Mani's torture. All in the name of Ylvanna.

Galad, having exhausted his arsenal of insults, had ordered me to leave his office. Still his point still stands, how had I allowed her to escape? Everything was so sudden, so unexpected. Who were the masked individuals who facilitated her rescue? Who the hell is Mani?

Investigations into the prison break uncovered the reason as to how the guards were so weak. Further analysis revealed that the guards' food and water had been contaminated with an unknown substance, suspected to be an energy dampener. It was assumed that the unknown substance was some sort of energy dampener.

In essence, an unfamiliar technology beyond our knowledge. Efforts were underway to replicate the substance, recognizing its potential value in conjunction with anti-magic shackles. Even-

Turning a corner, I collided with someone, jostling my journal. I managed to steady it just in time.

"Ah, sorry," the person mumbled–a voice I recognized.

"Don't worry; it was my fault," I reassured, taking a step back. "Are you alright?"

Freya's eyes snapped up, and she stared at me. I smiled to alleviate any tension, but she didn't reciprocate the smile. Instead, she frowned. "I'm fine. I need to go." And she departed before I could respond.

I furrowed my brows, watching her retreating figure. The awkwardness lingered from our previous encounter, but her newfound distance surprised me. Perhaps it was my fault; I hadn't found the opportunity to discuss it with her after the Mani incident. With everything that's been going on lately, I had my hands full. Perhaps once everything's died down, I'll talk to her.

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Leaving the city hall, I ventured into the lively streets, my journal capturing my racing thoughts.

Even though Mani may have vanished, my life had still improved. Mother was happy to see me, as was I to see her. She told me she was proud that I was able to partially redeem myself. Everyone was looking forward to my full redemption.

Elanor, engrossed in planning a recapture mission with higher-ups, confirmed my involvement in the team that will be dispatched. Despite my yearning to return home, the task at hand took precedence.

Mani couldn't evade Ylvanna indefinitely within closed borders. However, the competent individuals who rescued her posed a challenge.

Everything I did was for my family. Everything I did was justified.

"Aerendil!" a familiar voice called, and I looked up, closing my journal.

"Theo?" I smiled as he approached. "What’s the matter?"

"Oh, come on, don't you remember?" Theo bumped my shoulder lightly with his fist. "We're patrolling today, outside the walls!"

His bright grin was always a relief to see. Theo was a guard, and he told me he was there when Mani broke out. We became friends not too long ago after a chance encounter in the tavern. It surprised me how outgoing he was, but it only took a few beers for us to become friends. We were fighting for the same cause, after all.

"We are?" I inquired and knit my brows together in confusion. "I wasn't informed."

Theo scratched his platinum blonde hair. "Wait, really?" He also furrowed his brows in confusion. "They’re orders from Captain Vidhia himself," Theo straightened up, and a determined look crossed his face. "I think you might have missed it. Do you want to go ask Captain?"

I glanced away to gather my thoughts. How come I haven't been informed? Then it hit me, many of the soldiers and guards did not agree with my reinstatement. There must have been some intentional mix up to get me to mess up. Theo was truly a great friend to inform me before I unknowingly shirked my duties.

On top of that, interacting with Fejuhn's Captain of the Guards, if rumors held true, promised an unpleasant experience.

"No need. I believe you," I said and watched as Theo's face lit up. "Thank you for finding and telling me."

"No big deal, shall we?" Theo said, and when I nodded, he led the way.

Theo put on his helmet, and I followed right after.

"I can't believe I didn't hear about this," I winced at the thought of facing repercussions for neglecting my duties.

"Sorry, maybe I should have told you sooner; I thought you already knew," Theo glanced back at me, and I shook my head. "Sounds like some people want you gone again."

"My return was nothing short of controversial." I sighed and watched some children run by, followed by their mother.

"Yeah, definitely. Especially coming back with someone as precious as Ma- that human," he said, letting out an airy chuckle.

"We'll get her back," I declared as a determined look settled across my face. I quickly stopped when I remembered Theo couldn't see it through my helmet.

Theo remained silent for a second as his gaze remained forward. "Sure."

"You don't sound convinced at all, Theo."

Theo laughed and slowed down so I could walk by his side. "It's not like I don't believe it, I truly believe in Captain Elanor's capabilities. She caught her once; she'll get her again."

I smiled at my sister's praise. She'd always been the reliable one, I owe her a lot after all she has done for me.

"That's right, if anyone can do it, it would be Elanor." I agreed.

"Yeah."

As the gates approached, I watched as Theo informed the guards of Captain Vidhia's orders. They looked at each other before nodding.

"So you're the next patrols. Go ahead." The guard said and gestured for the gates to be opened.

They were informed too; there was definitely some foul play that prevented me from knowing. Theo walked forward, and out of the gates, he glanced back at me, and I swiftly followed. Theo yawned, rubbing his hands together. Crossing his arms, he surveyed the surroundings.

"Finally, we're out of the gates. I hate staying cooped up in those walls all day," he declared, ensuring his words reached me. His voice was a little louder than necessary.

I laughed lightheartedly. "That's true. The air is fresher beyond the walls."

He chuckled as we continued, the gates closing behind us.