[ there's a certain knowing, in astoria's eyes, at valerius. indeed, spells are not perfect, and while she did try to draw upon powerful magical heroes . . . it's imperfect, at best. clearly. but she doesn't seem put off, by his question. ]

You assume a lot, with your words.

[ mildly enough ]

I trust that, by and large, the people here will work for the greater good. But I also know that I must earn all of your trust -- and that trust is a two-way street.

[ she was not born yesterday, valerius. she is old, and she knows the risk of what she's about to do. but there is truly no other choice. ]