The next day, Lucius woke up at the ever elegant time of six-o-clock. Some of the Franks had already begun their morning duties, while the players remained slumbering in their makeshift abodes. The gentleman's companions had yet to wake; and so, he met up with Sir Renaud and the two newly arrived Peers for a bit of breakfast.

Lucius set up the table, which he didn't even need to buy from the store thanks to his upgraded skill (how convenient!), and soon laid out a refreshing assortment of baked goods, pastries, fruits, and of course a large pot of tea.

The younger man, Sir Astolfo, gawked at the sight in awe before seating himself down. "Wow, you get to feast like this every day, Renaud? I'm jealous. Angelica and I only had dried rations to eat for years while the Evils were still wandering around."

Angelica smiled and hung her head back in recollection. "Come now, Astolfo. Our duties weren't entirely difficult. We had scarce need to engage the Evils unless they approached a village, and even then we had the comfort of being near familiar soil. Things were much different during the Holy War. I can still remember the difficulties back then: the meagre food, the harsh desert heat, the dunes of sand that sprawled on without end. A few years of tailing the great demons are nothing compared to those hardships."

Astolfo rolled his eyes and bid her a drawn-out sigh. "You always make the war sound so terrible. How can it be any worse than what we're dealing with now?"

"Well, it's simple. Our enemies back then were our fellow man."

A grim air settled between the group. Renaud coughed awkwardly into his fist and sipped his tea, while Angelica stared blankly at her plate.

"It is much easier now to retain morale," she continued, speaking with a dry tone. "After all, the foes we face are undoubtedly malicious. Destroying them is a matter of protecting our nation, our people. There is no need to think about what is right or wrong; we merely need to raise our blades. However, there was no such certainty in the slaughter waged by Pepin. Us paladins and servants of the order were forced to carry on, knowing that the blood coating our armor was of the innocent."

Astolfo stayed quiet for a moment and fiddled with his fingers. "At least it's over now. If it weren't for Renaud over here—" The young man shot him a harsh glare "—and that snake, Ganelon, we would've fixed this nation a long time ago."

Renaud leaned back and let free a bitter laugh. "How utterly naive, but I expect nothing less from your faction. You know not the extent my uncle and I have endeavored to protect this land."

"Protect? All you've done is exploit it for your own greed! You've embezzled Roncevaux's supplies, bribed the judges and clerics of the Holy Order, and even conspired with the Saracens to prevent us from fighting back against the demons. All of this selfish garbage, and you have the audacity to spit in my face and act like some sort of savior?"

"I have done no such thing."

Astolfo slammed his fist onto the table. "You're refusing it? Well damn, looks I was wrong. I thought that maybe some part of you had changed, but you're still the same slimy jerk as usual."

Lucius and Lady Angelica briefly glanced at each other. Things were becoming a bit too heated; and if not stopped, then it likely wouldn't be long before the two came to blows.

To their surprise, however, Renaud didn't react and upheld his same unshaken demeanor.

"You are misunderstanding me," he said. "I do not deny what I or my uncle have done, but never once have I believed myself to be a savior or messiah. My goals were selfish, correct, and in my heart I knew that I was merely acting for my own self interest rather than for the good of the people. I may be a scoundrel, but I am not a hypocritical one. Not anymore."

Astolfo was stunned by Renaud's bold declaration and staggered back into his seat, unsure what to say. It was Angelica who addressed the frail man now. And though she did so with a gentler approach, Lucius could see a slight bewilderment in her.

The man she beheld now was not the one she knew. Angelica saw how his features had softened, at his eyes once so dark now fully clear, and perhaps it was because of such that she wished to give him a chance. She wanted to believe in the good that still dwelled inside him. So, even though their respective factions had warred since even before the demons' descent, she reached out to him now and welcomed him as a friend would.

"You do not have to carry on like this, Renaud," she sincerely pleaded. "Whatever Ganelon has said or the reason why you remain in his graces, it is not too late to make a difference. And I… even though Roland and I have drifted apart, I know for certain that he has never resented you. Not once. He still awaits for the day when you two might make amends."

The female Peer's appeal was certainly a moving one, but her efforts were inevitably in vain, for Renaud had already resolved to change his ways. He didn't need another to convince him, though he appreciated the effort nonetheless.

"I do not know if such a day will ever come," he said softly. "But I would not be against it."

Angelica began to speak, expecting for him to refuse, but she immediately stopped in place and then stared at him, incredulous. She fumbled for her helm and removed it. The woman's face practically shone with a vibrant luster, as if the very heavens itself sought to wreathe her in its spotlight, and the light caused her blonde hair to glitter like blinding gold. Lucius had to practically cover his eyes at first before growing accustomed to her radiance, but by far her most pleasant aspect was her smile. Her lips spread wide, and she moved to Renaud's side before entrapping him in an excited hug.

"Truly?" she said, crushing the man in her iron grip. Renaud had to push her away lest he suffocate from the force. "You are willing to meet him?"

"I am willing to try," he replied, coughing. "But do not expect much to change. Many years have passed since we called each other oath brothers. The memories and emotions of that time still reside in me, and perhaps our relationship will never return because of it. That is life."

"But the fact you wish to make an effort proves there is still yet hope," Angelica replies. "Does this mean you will leave Ganelon's faction?"

To that, Renaud rubbed his chin in thought. "You shall see."

Astolfo groaned. "Again with that? What're you planning to do that's so important?"

A slight twinkle flashed in Renaud's eyes, and he uttered a low chuckle before standing up from the table and departing. "Even a man such as I wishes to surprise every once in a while."

Afterwards, the group broke off to prepare themselves for departure, and so it was that Lucius reunited with his companions once the two suns had fully risen. Everyone, from player to Frank, aligned themselves along the expedition and officially began their return trip home.

Renaud assumed the position of leader as usual while the Peers acted as the main guards. Maugris was not here to serve as scout, so his duty was passed on to Astolfo, who rode on his golden chariot and encircled the area whilst looking for potential threats. As it turned out, however, his services weren't needed.

True to its many fanged word, the Beast Lord had forbade its kindred from ever approaching near the group's location. They traversed the somber fields of Sleeping Hollow without incident (though the more superstitious amongst them preferred to leave as quickly as possible due to a certain prior event), and they crossed the Crag-Stone Canyons without meeting a single Jabberwock. Indeed, without any threats to slow them, their voyage proceeded at a much quicker pace than before.

Angelica and Astolfo were quite baffled at first, but they grew accustomed to the mood and casually conversed with the Order members. Lucius of course seized the opportunity to learn every little thing about his two new fellows; and oftentimes he gathered them around a campfire and shared stories, food, laughs, and festivities as each tomorrow came more quickly than the last. It was during these conversations that he learned much of the Peer's inner workings.

"If only we weren't stuck on tracking duty!" Sir Astolfo had said one night while they were in the Misty Wetlands. "We could've hunted down the Evils, prevented Maugris's or Ogier's death. But no — Ganelon said it was too risky. He split us all up and caged Roland at the castle for some stupid reason that barely makes any sense, but the people all gobbled it up. I don't understand… how could they trust someone so shady?"

Angelica shook her head. "For all his lies and manipulation, there is no denying Ganelon's charm. He served by his late Holiness's side for decades; and it was he that reigned in that monster's bloodlust to… tolerable extents. To the families of those lost to war, he would visit their houses personally, their towns far off in the countryside, and bow his head while giving recompense. He once had genuine remorse, humility. It is likely difficult for you to understand, Astolfo, but the Ganelon of his younger days was once someone worth respecting."

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Lucius and Renaud were nearby as Angelica continued her tale, and the sickly man bowed his head as she spoke of a time that would never be again.

"What happened, then?" Astolfo asked.

The answer to that question, Angelica hesitated to say. Thus, Renaud was encouraged to reply in her stead.

"Gisela."

All he spoke was a name, a single name; and yet that was all it took for the two Peers to become deathly silent.

"Ganelon was never a truly righteous person," Angelica whispered mournfully. "But there was never any doubt that he cared for this land. The stress of serving directly under that vile creature couldn't have been slight."

Renaud slowly nodded. "You lot may not like his methods, but before his late Holiness's death, he did his best to keep this unstable nation from shattering. Oftentimes it required for some to be sacrificed. We took no pleasure in it, but the lives of the many outweighed a few, unfortunate souls."

Astolfo trembled and closed his fist. "And who are you to decide who lives or dies? I don't care what good intentions you had. Surely, there was another way. You don't get to play God."

"It was our very God who granted Pepin the power to enslave this world to begin with. My uncle and I were merely salvaging what we could from that thing's rampage."

The young man tried to come up with a rebuttal, but he had none.

"We could have found a solution together," Angelica said in his stead. "All you had to do was talk to us."

"You?" Renaud muttered. "Tell me, then, what were you doing all this time, hm? Roland, Maugris, the other Peers… did any of you try to go against his will even once?"

Angelica bit her lip and turned away.

"No. You obeyed like a beaten, spiritless mutt," he spat. "I do not wish to speak whilst I am angered; however, I will not sit here and listen to you cast blame. Yes, I have sinned. Ganelon has sinned, but regardless of our wrongs we kept this land stable. We sought to act when all your ilk did was speak of idealistic, yet hollow, dreams. Perhaps I would respect you more had you actually moved, did something, anything, to prove your beliefs, yet you did nothing."

Renaud had to take a moment to collect himself before speaking again. When he did so, his voice was gentler, softer. The man of before would've continued to tear into those he disliked, but now he genuinely wished to get along with them.

"Hrm, lift your heads already," he said with an awkward wave. "It is not as if I do not understand. The emperor's madness drowned us all. He suffocated our spirits and made clear what would happen to those who dissented… and the consequences that would befall their families."

Renaud's eyes briefly glossed over as he recalled his past.

"I hold no resentment toward the cowardly," he continued. "None were obligated to forsake their safety for an uncertain struggle, and I resolved to take responsibility for my misdeeds so that another need not be forced into grudge like I. It is when I hear such drivel like yours bemoaning and laying fault for a cause you never truly aided that my temper begins to flare."

Angelica cupped her hands together and pondered for a moment, before walking up to Renaud and lowering her head. "I apologize, Sir Renaud. You are right. I still believe had we worked together that a more peaceful solution could be found, but believing is different from acting upon it. I was too afraid to do else but submit."

Astolfo was also somewhat apologetic; however, a rebellious glint still shone in his eyes, and he boldly spoke to Renaud with an accusal of his own. "Fine, I'll acknowledge it. You did what you thought was right and that's a bit respectable, but what about now? Pepin's long dead and your faction has full control over the court. Why are you still doing all this shady stuff, then? It's like Ganelon wants us to be stuck fighting the demons forever."

Renaud rubbed his forehead, irritated, before uttering a clear reply. "I do not know."

Astolfo scrunched his face. "What do you mean?"

"How am I supposed to know all that goes on in his mind? I may be the closest to my uncle, but he has always been a cautious man. I have never once, even after all these years, seen him with his guard down. You would be better off asking him personally than seeking answers from me."

The young Peer was frustrated at first, but eventually he backed away and wandered mindlessly toward the back of the expedition. Angelica soon chased after him. Before she did, however, the lady spoke to Renaud one last time.

"Do you truly have not an idea?" she asked. "There must be something you've witnessed, a clue which might help us in swaying his mind."

Renaud took a deep breath and sighed. "Perhaps he is afraid."

"Afraid?" Angelica said slowly. The man Lucius had seen certainly didn't seem the type to scare easily, so it was no surprise that the lady seemed skeptical.

"Yes, afraid of what this nation could once again become."

The three Peers did not mention Francia's affairs after that day. Angelica and Renaud shared a certain kinship in knowing the horrors of the war's early days, but unlike them Astolfo had grown up in an already conquered world. He could not relate to their experiences, nor did he have a chance to witness the former emperor's atrocities.

One could learn of the past all they wished. However, it was impossible to truly understand the pain suffered by those who lived in such eras unless you were one such person yourself. That was why history was doomed to repeat: not because the people were ignorant, but because the desperation of that time inevitably fades with each passing generation.

Francia was still in a transitive state. Who knew what future awaited these loveable, restless folk? But regardless of what shall transpire, Lucius would be there watching as he always had.

The question was... what beauty would he see bloom next?

With that delightful thought fresh in the gentleman's mind, Expedition Argo finally arrived back home.

No sooner did the members of the Order step past the city gates that a roaring crowd celebrated their return. From every street to every corner, the people of Francia flocked en masse shouting chants of praise. Banners and decorations hung overhead welcoming the weary warriors; and a grand procession soon formed as they lined themselves and marched triumphantly toward the castle.

Astolfo had apparently flown ahead and alerted the city officials of their return. It didn't take long for a celebratory reception to be organized, thus the people closed their shops and patiently waited for their arrival. Some of the more shy players were taken aback at first — but they didn't mind. The expedition had toiled for three long weeks. They had encountered dangerous foes, lost friends, and suffered through all sorts of harrowing trials.

Now, they could rest knowing their duty was finally complete.

Once Lucius and his fellows had pushed past the crowd, they were led to the castle courtyard where two familiar faces awaited them. There, Sir Roland stood with a bright smile, relieved to see his countrymen return safe. By his side on the other hand was the ever enigmatic Sir Ganelon. It was difficult to tell what his expression was. Annoyance? Boredom? He wore a relaxed grin as always, but his eyes were entirely blank. The only change in emotion Lucius saw was when the man strolled forth to greet his nephew.

"Renaud, my boy! I never had any doubt of your success," he playfully said, before bringing the thin man into a purposely exaggerated hug. "Welcome home, welcome home. Haha, you've packed some muscle since I've last seen you! All that walking did wonders for your complexion. Even the shadows under your eyes have all but disappeared. How curious."

"I… appreciate the enthusiasm, uncle," Renaud replied.

Meanwhile, Sir Astolfo and Lady Angelica met with Roland off to the side. Curiously enough, however, Lucius noticed a strange air between them. Angelica awkwardly rubbed her wrist and stayed a fair distance away from Roland, while the man himself looked down and appeared remorseful. Neither of the two were comfortable in each other's presence; and so Angelica gave him a quick report before disappearing into the castle.

Astolfo was much more talkative and friendly with him. The two reconnected for a bit before the young man left as well, leaving Roland to greet the rest of the expedition members. He put on a brave front and spoke to them with dignity, but underneath his formal tone was a deep, deep sadness.

"Well met, everyone," the leader of the Peers said. "It must've been no easy task to endure such a journey, but know that I and all else in this castle are truly thankful for your efforts in combating the demonic spread. I would especially like to give my warmest admiration to Sir Maugris: a peerless scholar, a warrior, and my close friend who—"

"Oh, that's right, isn't it?" Ganelon interrupted. "He died. For a respected senior priest of the faith to perish in combat against a Great Evil… well, even if he didn't win, it's an honorable end I suppose. Fret not, Roland my boy! I'll arrange for a grand funeral by the morrow."

It took every last bit of willpower inside Roland to not lunge at the High Tribunal right then and there. The man's bloodlust was palpable; and yet, there was naught he could do as Ganelon continued to mock him with Maugris's death.

One person by Ganelon's side, however, was not so amused. Renaud glanced at Roland, and for a second their eyes met with the other. Roland was hurt. In his mind, Renaud and Ganelon were fellow conspirators. They were the ones who orchestrated Maugris's death. So many unspoken words were hurled at the frail man, yet he did not resist nor try to avoid it. Half-hearted excuses would never get through to him; and so, Renaud decided to do something more… bold.

"I have something I would like to say, uncle," Renaud said.

"Hm?" Ganelon said, still busy gloating. "What is it, my boy? No, no, let me guess: a trophy! Yes, an achievement such as yours deserves a grand reward in turn. Why don't we make it in your image? Oh, I'm getting excited! The bards will sing of your tale for years to come, Renaud. Imagine it: the slayer of demons. The vanquisher of the dreaded Ears of Evil. They'll also mention how you retrieved that fragment or whatever it's called, of course, and let's also embellish—"

"Uncle," Renaud firmly stated. "Let me speak."

Ganelon startled a bit, surprised by Renaud's tone, and reluctantly dragged himself to the side. "Hm. That is quite unusual of you, but who am I to deny the spotlight of my precious nephew? Go ahead, everyone is listening."

Renaud nodded and moved to the center so that all in the audience could hear him. He took a deep breath—in and out—one after the other, until his entire body soon filled with a fierce determination.

He parted his lips, and then spoke.

"I, Renaud Dordognes, hereby revoke my title as Peer."

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