Maelona stared at Aria with wide, disbelieving eyes. She couldn't fathom that her daughter, her precious, strong-willed daughter, had actually fallen in love with a mere servant.
Aether, on the other hand, felt a mix of surprise and anxiety as he watched Aria reveal the truth to her mother. Yet, she carefully omitted the fact that he was an Eternal Slave.
Like any protective mother, Maelona struggled to maintain her composure. She fought the urge to lash out at the stranger who had captured her daughter's heart. She understood the depth of Aria's sacrifices for their tribe and knew she had to respect her daughter's wishes, no matter how difficult it was.
"My daughter, I know you have done so much for this unfaithful tribe," Maelona began, her voice trembling with emotion as she glanced at Aether, who sat quietly beside Aria. "But still..." Her voice softened, filled with concern. "Is he truly the one for you?"
