Wings of the Stars

February 20, 2X2X – Thursday

The world had stepped into a new year, yet the scars of war remained.

Peace had finally returned to Teyvat, and with it came the slow but steady process of rebuilding. Cities that once echoed with the roar of jet engines and the thunder of missile strikes were now filled with the sounds of construction and renewal. Families who had been displaced began returning to their homes, working to restore their lives to what they once were.

But some wounds would take much longer to heal.

Bombing craters still marred the landscape, remnants of trenches dug for desperate last stands remained as ghostly scars in the countryside, and the charred wreckage of fallen aircraft lay scattered across the fields—silent testimonies to the battles fought in the skies above.

Though the war had ended, its echoes had not yet faded.

Fontaine City's Trading Centre

The venue was packed to capacity. The Teyvat United Peacekeeping Force, alongside the Government of Fontaine, had reserved the entire space for an awarding ceremony dedicated to the air force squadrons that had fought in the war.

Furina sat among her squadron, dressed in her semi-formal uniform—a dark navy-blue coat, a white polo undershirt, a neatly pressed tie, and black trousers. She glanced around the grand hall, taking in the sight of decorated officers, distinguished guests, and the sea of uniforms.

Despite the significance of the event, Furina's mind was already racing ahead.

Tomorrow, she was scheduled to visit the Teyvat Presidential Palace for a private meeting. Then, on Saturday, she would be at the Teyvat Air and Space Museum for an exclusive interview with Fontaine's leading reporter, Charlotte.

A documentary was in the works—one that would highlight the fighter jets that had shaped the war and the ace pilots who flew them. And at the center of it all was her: Furina De Fontaine, Teyvat's Deadliest Ace.

For the past forty-five minutes, pilots had been called up one by one to the stage to receive their commendations.

The Nocturne Squadron, the Primordial Squadron, and her own Waltz Squadron had already been awarded.

All except her.

Furina leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms. "Seems like they forgot about me, huh?"

Jean chuckled. "Nah, I think they're saving the best for last."

Ningguang nodded in agreement. "Of course. You're the one who ended the war, after all."

Furina shrugged. "Fair point."

Collei turned to her. "You visited the Teyvat Air and Space Museum recently, right?"

Furina smirked. "Yep. My Rafale was the centerpiece. When I visited last month, the place was flocked with people. Everyone wanted to see the aircraft of Teyvat's Deadliest Ace."

She shook her head, smiling at the memory. "People were actually touching it—placing their hands on the fuselage, whispering their thanks to it."

Mavuika chuckled. "Well, it's not just about the plane, you know."

Furina nodded. "Yeah. It's also about the pilot."

Clorinde, sitting beside her, glanced over. "So… since your Rafale was a one-off experimental prototype, is Dassault actually planning to produce it?"

Furina nodded. "Yep. Dassault took all the data from my Rafale and used it to refine their next evolution of the jet. They're planning to enter it into service within the next two to three years."

Lyney tapped his chin thoughtfully. "I knew something was up with the way your control surfaces moved, Furina."

Furina raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"

Lyney leaned forward. "When you launched off the Ousia-class carrier Blancheur during the operation to eliminate the enemy ground forces on your second sortie, I noticed something."

Furina tilted her head. "And that was?"

Lyney's eyes narrowed slightly, recalling the moment. "Your control surfaces moved instantly—with absolutely zero delay. Like it was almost fly-by-cable instead of fly-by-wire."

Furina snapped her fingers. "Oh, that. Yeah, that was thanks to the Plane Alchemist himself—Albedo. Dassault hired him two years ago to refine the Rafale's maneuverability. What you saw was the result of that work: a Fontanian jet that could outmaneuver anything in the skies. Even F-22 Raptors and Snezhnayan fighters."

Lynette nodded, arms crossed. "And that's why you were able to pull off those insane Pugachev's Cobras and other extreme maneuvers."

Furina grinned. "Exactly."

She exhaled, shaking her head slightly. It was still surreal—how far she had come, how much had changed, and how history would remember her.

The room, packed with dignitaries, officers, and fellow pilots, fell into a hush as the host of the event finally made the long-awaited announcement.

"May I please call on Captain Furina De Fontaine onto the stage."

Furina glanced at her colleagues, a smirk playing at her lips. "Looks like it's my turn."

She stood up, straightened her uniform, and strode confidently toward the stage. Each step echoed in her ears as she ascended the stairs. Once at the top, she turned sharply toward the audience, standing straight with military precision.

All eyes were on her now.

The Fontaine Air Force Chief of Staff walked up beside her, his uniform adorned with medals and ribbons of his own. His expression was one of deep respect, his posture firm, but there was warmth in his voice as he prepared to speak.

Then, the host's voice rang out once again, authoritative and solemn.

"Attention to orders!"

The entire audience stood in unison. A sea of uniforms, officials, and civilians—all rising to acknowledge her.

Furina swallowed hard, maintaining composure.

The host continued.

The Speech

"As we look back on the trials and triumphs of this conflict, we know that the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment of individuals like you, Furina De Fontaine, have been critical to our success. You stood ready to face danger, to defend freedom, and to protect those who rely on us. These medals are a symbol of your extraordinary service and the profound gratitude of a nation. Thank you for your bravery and for all that you've done to bring us through this difficult time."

The weight of those words settled deep within Furina's chest.

"Today, we honor you not just for your skill in the cockpit, but for your courage, leadership, and unyielding commitment to the mission in the most challenging of circumstances. The war may be over, but the sacrifices and the legacy of those who served will echo for generations. These awards represent your place in that legacy, and we are forever grateful for the sacrifices you made in defense of our freedoms. You embody the spirit of the Fontaine Air Force and the Teyvat United Peacekeeping Force."

The Chief of Staff stood tall beside her, nodding in agreement.

"After a long and difficult journey, we find ourselves in a place of peace, and it's in no small part due to the sacrifice and valor of individuals like you, Furina. The toll of war is great, but your contributions have been immeasurable. These medals are a small token of the respect and gratitude that a grateful nation has for your dedication and heroism. We honor your service, the sacrifices you've made, and the lives you've touched. The war is over, but your legacy lives on."

Furina's hands clenched at her sides.

A legacy.

The thought echoed in her mind.

The Medals

The host's voice rang out once more, the list of honors almost overwhelming.

"In recognition of your selfless dedication, your exemplary service to the nation, and your outstanding contributions to the mission, it is an honor to present you with the following medals."

The audience remained silent, listening with unwavering attention.

The Médaille Militaire

The Teyvat Aeronautical Medal

The Meritorious Service Medal

The Distinguished Flying Cross

The Legion of Merit

The Defense Superior Service Medal

The Air Force Distinguished Service Medal

And then—

"And the highest order of merit from your nation, Fontaine… The Legion of Honour."

A wave of murmurs rippled through the crowd before applause erupted once again.

The Chief of Staff turned slightly, signaling his military aide, who stepped forward with a polished case carrying the medals.

He took a step closer to Furina and met her eyes. "Furina… Congratulations."

She nodded, maintaining composure, though she could feel her heart hammering in her chest.

One by one, he pinned the medals above the ribbons on her uniform. Each metal insignia, each badge of honor, was placed with care, a physical reminder of every battle, every kill, every moment she spent in the sky.

With the last medal secured, he extended his hand.

"Congratulations, Captain."

Furina smiled, shaking his hand firmly. "Thank you, Chief."

A Standing Ovation

She turned to face the audience.

Thunderous applause.

Cameras flashed, capturing the moment for history. The entire hall stood in a standing ovation—not just Fontaine officials, not just the pilots of her squadron, but the leaders of nations, the people whose lives had been shaped by the war she helped to end.

Furina stood tall, the weight of her new medals pressing against her chest, but the true weight—the weight of what they meant—settled even heavier on her shoulders.

She had done what many thought impossible.

She had fought.

She had survived.

And now, she was being honored as the greatest air ace of the war.

The host of the event spoke once more.

"As we stand in the aftermath of this war, we recognize the immense courage and strength it took to persevere through some of the darkest days. Furina, your leadership, skill, and dedication have made a lasting impact, and your actions will inspire future generations of Airmen. These medals are a symbol of that legacy, a reminder of the sacrifices made, and a testament to your unwavering commitment to the mission and to your country. While the war may have ended, your legacy as a leader and protector of freedom will never fade. We thank you from the depths of our hearts for your service and your sacrifice."

For a brief moment, Furina felt a lump form in her throat.

The highest awards any Air Force pilot could receive.

The highest honor Fontaine could bestow upon anyone.

And she had earned them.

Back to Her Squadron

She descended the steps from the stage, medals gleaming under the bright lights, and walked toward her squadron.

As she approached, her fellow pilots—her friends—continued clapping.

Clorinde smiled. "You've done it, Furina."

Wriothesley nodded. "From Fontaine's ace… to being disgraced and accused of murder… to becoming Teyvat's deadliest ace. And now? You just received the highest awards Fontaine has to offer. It's been one hell of a journey."

Furina shook her head, pulling out a handkerchief to dab at her eyes. "Don't get me started, you're gonna make me cry."

Clorinde chuckled, stepping forward. "Come on, get in here."

She pulled Furina into a hug, and soon, the rest of the squadron joined in. It wasn't just a celebration—it was a moment of unity, of survival, of understanding.

They had all been through hell.

But they had come out the other side together.

The following day was just as monumental as the ceremony before it.

The Presidential Palace was a hive of activity—officials, security personnel, and news outlets swarmed the grounds, their presence a testament to the historical significance of what was about to take place. Cameras flashed, journalists murmured among themselves, and guards stood in rigid formation, scanning the surroundings with sharp, disciplined eyes.

Inside, the Teyvat Strategic Strike Group (TSSG) made their way through the grand halls, their footsteps echoing against polished marble floors.

At the doors of the President's Office, two guards in immaculate uniforms stood at attention, gripping the handles before smoothly swinging them open.

Inside, Neuvillette, the President of Teyvat, waited behind his desk, the symbol of his authority.

As the group entered, he rose to his feet, a composed yet welcoming expression on his face. He took a few steps forward, hands clasped behind his back before finally greeting them.

"Ah, the TSSG has arrived. Welcome!"

His voice was firm yet warm, the weight of leadership unmistakable in his tone.

Jean, the head of the TSSG, stepped forward first, her posture perfect as she extended her hand.

"Mr. President. It is an honor to meet you."

Neuvillette nodded, taking her hand in a firm shake. "The honor is mine, Jean. You and your squadron are the ones responsible for bringing this war to an end. I cannot express enough gratitude."

One by one, he shook the hands of each member of the squadron, his appreciation evident in his demeanor.

Then, at last, he reached Furina—standing at the center of the formation.

His eyes held a glint of recognition, respect, and something else—a quiet reverence for the legend standing before him.

He extended his hand. "Ah, Captain De Fontaine. It is truly an honor to meet Teyvat's Ace."

Furina blinked, caught slightly off guard.

She had been praised before. She had stood before crowds, saluted by thousands. Yet, hearing it from the President of Teyvat himself—the leader of the entire nation she fought for—carried a different weight.

A light blush dusted her cheeks. "Oh, it's an honor to meet you too, Mr. President."

But Neuvillette simply shook his head.

"No, Furina…" His grip on her hand firmed slightly, as if to emphasize his next words.

"It is my honor to meet you."

A moment of silence passed as his words sank in.

Teyvat's Deadliest Ace.

Over 400 confirmed aerial kills.

The pilot who single-handedly took down the ADFX-11 drones.

The woman who ended the war.

A hero standing before him.

Neuvillette's gaze never wavered, filled with both respect and gratitude.

"You did more than just fly a fighter jet, Captain. You carried the weight of this war in the skies. And because of your actions, because of your skill, your resilience, and your unwavering resolve, Teyvat stands victorious against the aggressors."

Furina let out a small chuckle, trying to brush off the sheer magnitude of his praise. "Well, Mr. President… I was just doing what I had to do."

Neuvillette's lips curled into a knowing smile.

"And you did it spectacularly."

A Moment for History

Neuvillette then gestured toward his desk. "Come, let's have a photo opportunity."

The TSSG gathered around, positioning themselves strategically. The President stood in the center, Furina positioned to his right, Jean to his left.

Behind them, the banners of Teyvat and Fontaine hung proudly, bathed in soft morning light that streamed through the palace windows.

Cameras clicked. Flashes illuminated the room, capturing the moment in time.

A leader and the warriors who secured peace.

A commander and the squadron who rewrote history.

One by one, the photographers inspected their shots, giving approving nods and thumbs up before lowering their cameras.

Neuvillette turned to his sides, his gaze sweeping across the room before addressing the TSSG.

"Come on. Let's head to the Main Hall. There's an event prepared to welcome you all."

With that, the group began walking, their boots clicking against the polished marble floors as the security detail fell into step behind them.

As they entered the Main Hall, they were greeted by a wave of applause. Journalists, photographers, high-ranking officials, and distinguished guests from both Teyvat and Fontaine's Air Force filled the grand space, their presence a testament to the importance of the moment. The energy in the room was electric, the weight of history thick in the air.

The TSSG took their designated seats near the front, but just as Furina was about to follow them, an official stepped forward, gently guiding her in a different direction.

She blinked in confusion. "Huh? A seat by the stage?"

The official gave her a knowing nod.

"That's right, Miss Furina."

Furina hesitated for a moment before nodding slowly. "Um… Right."

She adjusted her posture and made her way toward the stage, where an empty seat awaited her next to President Neuvillette himself. The realization settled in—this was not just an event, but something more.

As she sat down, the room slowly quieted, all eyes turning to the front as Neuvillette took his place behind the ornate podium.

The microphone hummed slightly as he adjusted it. Then, in a voice commanding yet filled with warmth, he began.

A Nation's Gratitude

"Hello, and thank you all for coming today."

A respectful hush settled over the crowd.

"Today is a special day."

"Today, we are joined by the elite Teyvat Strategic Strike Group—the warriors who turned the tide of war and brought peace to our lands once more."

The mention of the squadrons brought a fresh wave of applause, cheers ringing throughout the hall before fading back into anticipation.

Neuvillette's expression grew more solemn, his words carrying the weight of countless sacrifices.

"On the battlefield, in the heat of war, Captain Furina De Fontaine displayed extraordinary bravery. Her actions saved thousands of lives—not just those of her squadmates but also innocent civilians caught in the crossfire. From fighting alongside her comrades, to ensuring the safe evacuation of refugees from an island under siege, to finally facing the deadly Sepharis Birds with nothing but sheer skill and unwavering resolve, she has proven herself to be more than just an ace pilot. She is a beacon of courage, a defender of freedom, and an inspiration to us all."

The crowd listened in rapt attention, some nodding in agreement, others with admiration shining in their eyes.

Neuvillette continued, his voice unwavering.

"But today is not just about one person. It is about the collective spirit of every service member who has stepped forward in defense of our freedoms. While we honor Captain Furina today, we also honor the countless men and women who have stood beside her, fought beside her, and sacrificed alongside her. Every single soldier, every single pilot, every single person who dedicated their life to protecting our world—they are the reason we stand here in peace today."

A heavy silence followed, a silence not of emptiness, but of respect.

Neuvillette's gaze softened slightly as he looked toward Furina.

"Furina, I know that no words can fully express the depth of our gratitude for your service. You have shown us what true courage looks like—courage that inspires others to act, to stand firm, and to rise above adversity. You are the embodiment of everything our nation stands for."

Furina swallowed hard, trying to maintain her composure.

"And to the families of our service members—your sacrifices, too, are immeasurable. You have stood by your loved ones, supported them through the darkest of times, and carried the burden of war in ways unseen. This honor is not just for Furina, but for all of you, for the strength you have shown."

Neuvillette took a deep breath before delivering the final words of his speech.

"As we stand here today, we are reminded of the values that define us as a nation: duty, honor, courage, and sacrifice. Captain De Fontaine, you have embodied these values, and for that, we are forever in your debt. You represent the best of who we are."

He then turned slightly, signaling to the official standing nearby.

"It is my distinct privilege, as President of Teyvat, to present you with the Teyvat Medal of Honor—the highest recognition for valor in service. This medal is given only to those whose actions have shaped history, those whose sacrifices have preserved our future. Furina, today, we honor you."

A Moment Etched in Time

Furina turned away for a moment, bringing her napkin to her eyes as she wiped away the tears that had begun to flow.

A standing ovation erupted, the entire hall rising to their feet in unison. The thunderous applause rang through the air, cameras flashing as the moment was captured forever.

Furina turned back, taking a slow breath to steady herself.

At that moment, the Teyvat Secretary of the Air Force stepped onto the stage, carrying the Teyvat Medal of Honor in his hands—a symbol of ultimate recognition, of a nation's deepest gratitude.

Neuvillette descended from the podium, taking the medal carefully before stepping toward Furina. The moment was silent yet profound, the weight of history pressing upon them both.

With deliberate care, he looped the medal around her neck, adjusting the ribbon before tying the knot securely behind it.

A light tap on her shoulder made Furina turn to face him.

His smile was small, but genuine.

"Congratulations, Lady Furina."

She exhaled shakily, her hands trembling slightly as she nodded.

"T-Thank you, Mr. President."

Neuvillette then gestured toward the podium.

"Come on. You have to say something."

Furina's eyes widened slightly, but she nodded nonetheless.

Taking another deep breath, she steeled herself before walking forward—

—toward the podium, toward the microphone, and toward the speech that would define her legacy.

The hall had fallen into complete silence as Furina stood behind the podium, gripping its edges tightly. The weight of the Teyvat Medal of Honor hung heavily around her neck—not just as an award, but as a symbol of the battles fought, the sacrifices made, and the journey that had led her to this moment.

She took a deep breath, then exhaled shakily.

"I… I'm at a loss for words."

A small chuckle escaped her lips as she wiped at her tear-streaked face with the back of her hand.

"I'm a freaking crybaby. Heh."

The crowd laughed warmly, the tension in the room easing just slightly.

But then, she took another deep breath, her expression growing serious.

"Let me tell you all a story."

"Just two years ago, I was a fresh graduate from the Fontaine Royal Air Force Academy. I wasn't even in active service yet—just an acting reserve, waiting for my turn. Then, last May, I got my orders. I was transferred to the Armée De L'Air 405th Squadron, assigned as Tidal Squadron's Number Two.

The day I arrived at Charybdis Air Force Base, the war came knocking. The base was under attack. We had no time.. No time to complete our briefing. Just alarms blaring, orders being shouted, and a scramble to the hangars.

I barely had time to get into my flight suit before I was in the air, my Dassault Rafale M roaring to life. I didn't even know my squadmates' fully yet—but I knew one thing. I had a job to do.

We took to the skies. And that day, in the chaos of battle… I took down eleven enemy aircraft.

More than anyone else in the sortie.

I became an ace… on my first combat mission."

There were murmurs in the crowd—whispers of admiration. Some already knew this story, but hearing it from Furina herself gave it a whole new weight.

She paused for a moment, her eyes lowering.

"But back then… I didn't believe we were really at war. Not truly. Not until Nocturne Two was shot down."

A hush fell over the crowd.

"That's when it sank in. That's when I realized—this wasn't just a mission. This wasn't training. This was war. And war means losses.

I remember standing on the carrier Blancheur, staring at the ocean, and saying to myself,

'If this is the first and last war I fight in… I won't back down. Not until this comes to an end. I'll do everything I have to... even if it means sacrificing myself.'"

Furina let out a slow, heavy breath.

"I knew then: You win some. And you lose some.

And I… I almost lost everything."

"When Former President Imena's aircraft was shot down by an AI-controlled F/A-18, they needed someone to blame. And who was closest to her jet?

Me.

Even though I was being chased by two enemy drones. Even though I fired only two Sidewinders trying to defend myself. Even though I had nothing to do with the attack on Imena… they court-martialed me.

Stripped of everything. Labeled a traitor.

They sent me to the 51st Teyvat Spare Squadron—also known as The Drowned."

Some people in the audience already knew about this part of her history, but hearing her say it out loud? That was different.

She clenched her fists for a moment, then relaxed them.

"It wasn't any better there. The 51st? We were expendable.

Every mission we got was a death sentence. Defending a fake base with locked weapons. Engaging hostiles in a blizzard. Protecting Primordial Squadron in the middle of a storm with barely enough ammo. We weren't meant to survive.

But we did.

And because of that, because of our exemplary performance in the field… we were pardoned.

All charges? Dropped."

A few claps rang out, but most of the crowd remained silent, hanging onto every word.

"Then, the Teyvat Strategic Strike Group came. I was being transferred to join them.

In light of my service, skill, and distinction—a new squadron was born, one that carried my TAC name.

Waltz Squadron.

It was all uphill from there—until we reached its peak."

Furina's hands gripped the podium tighter.

"When the enemy took down our communication satellites, I knew we were royally screwed. But we adapted.

When the war reached its final battle, we found ourselves on the Ousia-Class Carrier Focalors. And there, in the skies above, the last two Sepharis AI Drones remained.

While my squadmates fought to keep them occupied…

I took them down.

One.

By.

One."

The crowd erupted in applause—but it was short-lived, as Furina wasn't done yet.

"But I didn't do it alone. I had my trusty steed with me—my Dassault Rafale M, my fighter, my partner through hell and back.

And when I was at my lowest… when I thought I had nothing left…

I was surrounded by friends. By family. By my squadron.

That's why I'm standing here today."

The True Meaning of the Medal

Furina's voice softened, the emotion thick in her words.

"It is with a deep sense of humility that I stand here before you all today. To receive the Teyvat Medal of Honor is a privilege, and one I do not take lightly.

But let me be clear—I am not the only one who deserves this.

I am simply a representative of every soldier who has fought alongside me. Of those who gave their all. Of those who never came home.

They are the true heroes. I think of them every day. I carry their memories with me. It is because of their sacrifice that we can stand here today in a free world."

Furina exhaled shakily, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

"This medal is not just mine. It belongs to every pilot, soldier, and sailor who has given their life for our freedom.

It belongs to all of us who serve.

And I will spend the rest of my life honoring this medal, honoring their sacrifice, and living up to the values it represents.

Thank you. Thank you to my squadmates. Thank you to my leaders. Thank you to the people of Teyvat for allowing me to serve.

I will never take this for granted."

She took a deep breath, then stepped back.

The room was silent for only a moment.

Then—F

The crowd rose as one.

A thunderous, standing ovation.

The applause was deafening.

Cameras flashed, reporters scrambled to capture the moment, and high-ranking officials clapped with genuine admiration.

Captain Furina De Fontaine—once a disgraced pilot, now a legend—had just delivered a speech that would be remembered for generations.

A flash.

The deafening applause, the roaring crowd, the weight of the Teyvat Medal of Honor around her neck—

Gone.

It had all been a memory.

Now, Furina sat alone in a quiet hall, the sounds of the present much softer than the echoes of the past. The air smelled of polished steel and aged aircraft fuel, a familiar scent that brought a sense of nostalgia.

Behind her, in its iconic one-off paint scheme, sat her Dassault Rafale M—the very same aircraft that had carried her through the war, through victories and losses, through the defining moments of her life.

She was at the Teyvat Air and Space Museum.

Across from her sat Charlotte, a reporter and interviewer, camera crews positioned just out of sight. The bright lights of the set gave the room a gentle glow, illuminating Furina's face.

Charlotte leaned forward, microphone in hand, and asked:

"Miss Furina... What are your reflections about this war?"

Furina's eyes drifted downward, staring at her hands, as if searching for the right words.

Then, she smiled—just a little. A quiet, wistful smile.

She lifted her gaze and met Charlotte's eyes.

"The war changed me... but not my spirit."

"I'm still the same Furina I've always been.

Someone who's kind.

Someone who's caring.

Someone willing to help a brother or sister in need."

Her fingers lightly tapped against the armrest of her chair.

"This world won't change for the better... unless we trust people.

Because trust... is vital for a peaceful world."

Her expression softened, but there was something tired behind her eyes—something that had seen too much.

"But that? That's hard to achieve.

Even now, there are still battlefields around the world. Wars that have gone on for years, and still rage on to this day.

Peace feels... distant. Elusive. Maybe even impossible."

She turned her head slightly, her gaze falling upon her Rafale—her partner through the fire.

Her voice grew quieter, more thoughtful.

"I want to see for myself what peace really means. What its volition truly is.

I may never find the answers I'm looking for... but I still want to try."

She exhaled slowly.

"And that? That's what I've come to believe.

And I think... that's enough."

A long silence followed.

Then, Furina's lips parted, but this time, she wasn't speaking to Charlotte.

She was speaking to herself.

Or perhaps, to the ghosts of the past.

Her eyes traced the weathered frame of her Rafale, memories washing over her like an incoming tide.

She thought of her first mission. Her first kill. Her first loss.

She thought of the court-martial. The time she spent as an outcast in the 51st Spare Squadron.

She thought of her squadmates—those who made it home… and those who didn't.

And then, in her mind, came one final truth.

"War... Will never change."

Her hand curled into a fist for a moment.

Then relaxed.

"But people…"

She glanced at Charlotte.

Then at her Rafale.

Then, finally—out the museum's glass-paneled windows, where the sky stretched wide and endless.

She smiled softly.

"People can."