61.4 Self Determination

"A Twelve that somehow managed to fight a Branch to a standstill, deary~" Aria deftly replied, a hint of edge coloring her usual tone. "Our ranks are merely for posterity, Lise~ Just because I was the Twelve doesn't mean I didn't improve and grew stronger over the years~"

I could only nod in agreement as I watched the debate unfold. Not that it even had time to fully manifest, seeing as Lise simply returned to eating her bowl with a shrug. I guess she conceded defeat.

I guess it's my turn then. "Still, power can't make people turn traitor that easily," I pointed out. "Even if we manage to find them, what do we even have to offer for their allegiance?"