Because of Clervie, The Knave—then known as Peruvilie—had moved against Kuzavina ahead of time. She had nearly lost, and her eventual victory came only because she awakened the power of her bloodline.
"I never expected that I would make such a choice back then. I must have been exhausted at the time. But I completely understand my future self's decision. Even if I had to choose again, I would do the same. The first time I met Pepe, I knew she could accomplish what I could not." Clervie smiled throughout her speech.
"Even now, I still cannot understand what the freedom you pursued truly was. But as the Father of The Hearth, I will now grant the children a minimum degree of freedom—the freedom to choose their own destinies." The Knave's voice was exceptionally calm.
"I have already spoken with Fontaine's Chief Justice. Those unwilling to remain in the house may forget its secrets and live quietly in this nation. No one will pursue their past. Of course, I will not simply hand them the fruits of victory. They must fight for them and prove themselves to me. Only freedom earned that way has value," The Knave continued.
"That is enough. This is the life I have always sought. To me, Pepe, you are already a wonderful king and a wonderful father."
"I am truly happy now. My only regret is that I will never have the chance to see the world beyond." As Clervie spoke, she gazed at the sky with a trace of melancholy.
"As it happens, these three guests have traveled through many nations and crossed countless lands. Let them tell you about the outside world." The Knave turned her gaze toward Shen Fei and the other two. After everyone else had left, Shen Fei stepped forward