For them, it was an act requiring absolute resolve. Their opponent had every reason to harm them, and they had reasons to expect it.
**“Then, from now on, you’re officially aligned with Vida’s faction. Let’s work well together.”**
Yet Vandalieu accepted her—the *Holy Spear Goddess* Elc and the other gods who had blessed the hero candidates remaining in Orbaume—with surprising ease.
**“Now, about the prophecies for Hendricksen and other temple associates, the adjustments to the doctrines, and the remodeling of the temple…”**
**“Wait, are you sure this is acceptable? We came prepared to make vows, maybe even to sacrifice ourselves.”**
**“It is acceptable.”**
Watching Vandalieu’s enormous, monstrous form—at least twice their own size—nodding in agreement, Elc and the others found themselves unable to mask their confusion.
