past is past

"Its been 2 years to the day since you left Hero's party, and left Aria behind. It broke you. But Nalek, a middle aged orc warrior picked you up, got you back on your feet and gave you a strong arm to lean on. Nia, a playful foxgirl archer, joined shortly thereafter. As a small party, you've gone on some amazing adventures and you regained your love of adventuring and helping people. You just finished a particularly dangerous job to rid this town of a gryphon that had been attacking their livestock and everyone is celebrating at the tavern"

Nalek Come on, son! If you don't snatch her up, someone else is gonna come along first "he says, motioning to Nia as he swigs his ale with a wink and a laugh"

Nia "blushes and grins at you" I wouldn't be against it "she says standing up and walking by you to grab another drink"

"In the corner you see an elf girl watching you, her eyes full of tears. You recognize her. It's Aria. her clothes are torn, and she looks miserable."

"Nalek gives you a knowing nod while Nia watches you with concern."

"Aria looks up at you, her eyes widening with surprise and hope." "Hey... I didn't expect to see you here," "she says softly, her voice shaky with emotion."

"Aria's eyes flicker with pain as she looks down, a mixture of shame and sadness crossing her features." "It's been... rough," "she admits, her voice barely above a whisper." "After I left Hero's party, I've been struggling to find my place. No one wants to take on a sorceress with a tainted reputation," "she says bitterly, her hands fidgeting with the torn edges of her cloak." "I've hit rock bottom, and I don't know how to climb back up."

"Aria swallows hard, her gaze dropping to the floor." "I... I let my desires control me," "she confesses, her voice barely audible." "I betrayed everything I believed in... and I hurt you in the process," "she says, her voice thick with regret." "I don't blame you for leaving... I deserved it."

"Aria's eyes widen with a flicker of hope as she looks up at you." "You... you would do that?" "she asks, her voice trembling with emotion." "I understand, I do. And I respect what you have with Nia," "she says softly, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips." "If Nalek and Nia are okay with it... I would be honored to fight alongside you again," "she says, her voice filled with sincerity."

"Nalek grins, giving you a hearty clap on the back." "Of course she can join! We could use a magic user like her, and it seems like fate's giving you a chance to mend some old wounds," "he says, his eyes twinkling with understanding."

"Nia's eyes widen in surprise, but then she smiles warmly at you, nodding." "I trust you, ComradeFox," "she says softly, her voice filled with affection." "If you believe she can help us, then I'm all for it. And I'm glad to hear that you're committed to us," "she adds, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to your cheek."

"Nia's eyes shine brightly with joy and surprise at your words. She gazes at you in adoration, cupping your face gently with her hands." "I love you too, ComradeFox," "she whispers, her voice filled with emotion." "I want to be with you," "she says, her lips curling into a loving smile." "You make me feel truly special, and I trust you completely." "She embraces you in a warm, affectionate hug." "Yes, I will be yours," "she says, giving you another loving kiss in confirmation, her tail wrapping around you happily."

"Nia smiles kindly at Aria, her arm still wrapped lovingly around your waist."

"Nalek grins warmly at Aria." "Welcome to the team, lass!"

"Aria's eyes glisten with tears of joy and relief as she smiles gratefully at you all." "Thank you so much for this chance," "she says softly." "I promise I will work hard and not cause any trouble," "she adds, her eyes meeting yours gently yet apologetically, as if to say she understands you've both moved on from the past."

"She approaches Nalek and Nia, deeply bowing her head in respect." "It's truly an honor. I'll do my best to prove myself," "she says earnestly."

"I'm sure you will," "Nia says warmly." "Let's start fresh, yes?" "She extends her hand with a kind smile."

"Aria smiles gratefully." "It's been an adjustment, but everyone has been so welcoming," she says. "Nia is so kind and Nalek always knows how to lift spirits. I'm lucky to travel with you all."

She regards you thoughtfully. "How are you faring, after everything? I know our past still lingers between us, and I want you to know how truly sorry I am," she says softly. "But I also want to thank you, for giving me this chance to prove myself again. It means more than you know."

She meets your gaze with earnest eyes. "I hope that in time, we can move from forgiveness to... friendship. If you'll have me as a friend, that is. You and Nia both deserve all the happiness in the world."

"Aria nods slowly, a small smile of understanding on her lips." "You speak the truth. While I'll always cherish the fond memories of our friendship from before, as lovers we clearly weren't meant to be," she says gently.

"I'm grateful you're willing to move forward in a platonic way. That means everything," "she continues, placing a hand over her heart." "No more looking back with regret - just moving ahead together, as friends this time."

"She gazes at you hopefully." "Do you think, in time, you might be able to fully trust me again? I know I have a lot to rebuild, but... I want you to know you can count on me. Both in battles and outside of them."

"Aria's cheeks flush pink at your suggestion." "Nalek is truly one of the kindest souls I've ever met," she says, smiling shyly. "To be honest, I've found myself wanting to know him better these past weeks. But I didn't want to assume or overstep..."

"She glances over at where Nalek is setting up the campfire, a warm yet uncertain look in her eyes." "Do you think he might welcome getting to know me too, in a romantic way? I know I have much to prove still, but... his strength and courage are truly admirable. If he'll have me, I would care for him with all my heart."

"Turning back to you, she adds quietly:" "Only time will tell. For now, I'm content to earn his trust, as well as yours, through my actions. The past is the past - all I can do is focus on the present."

"Aria's smile brightens, hope and gratitude shining in her eyes." "Thank you, truly. Knowing I have your blessing and support means everything."

"She glances again at Nalek, who is now passing out bowls of stew to the group, cheerfully chatting with Nia." "When the time feels right, I will find a way to let Nalek know how I feel. For now, friendship is what matters most."

"Turning back to you, she lays a hand gently on your arm." "I'm glad we could reach this understanding. Moving ahead together, without regret or resentment. That's all I've ever wanted." "She smiles warmly." "Now, shall we join the others? I believe supper is served."

"Aria embraces you in a hug filled with gratitude, care, and warmth between old friends." "Thank you," she whispers.

"As you both pull away, smiles on your faces, she nods in encouragement before turning to head toward Nalek with new hope and purpose in her step."

"Meanwhile, you settle in next to Nia, who beams at you with joy and affection, leaning into your embrace as you all enjoy the warm camaraderie of the campfire together. Laughter and lively conversation fill the air as your newfound family enjoys their meal."

"From her seat next to Nalek, Aria joins in with quiet smiles, gladly accepting the kindness and inclusion offered by the group. Little by little, old wounds seem to heal - and the future looks bright."