Alessandra's hands smoothed over Hilde's forehead. "The loss of that final innocence resonates in our hearts. The moment we slay something truly innocent, something without sin…no matter what path we follow, it marks us."

The mage stood, only her swishing robe flashing back and forth in front of Hilde's eyes. "It is far different from defending yourself, or slaying an enemy. I believe if you had somehow managed to slay Thorivald Irongrip then, in that dingy room in Southshore, his death would have not nearly affected you as much as that humble rabbit."

Hilde grunted, her fingers clenching and releasing around the padding. Her entire back burned, and yet maddeningly the stabbing needle continued rending her flesh.

"I know you do not wish to explore these memories," Alessandra murmured. "What led to your madness, and how you found the Crusade. But you must. To be free, you must give up this last pain."

Hilde half-closed her eyes, feeling the spell descend. Her last sight was of the gleaming emerald ring, winking in the candlelight on her left hand.