Decision to sponsor the first soldier

Ester became surprised, while Lupa became confused. Both didn't expect to see a soldier kneeling in front of them and thanking Ester from the bottom of his heart.

On the other hand, Maria held mixed feelings swirling inside her. Vincent didn't reveal her identity, yet the man on his knees was over the moon to find the woman who froze the fountain. 

Maria understood Vincent didn't want to reveal her identity. Yet, Vincent still turned the situation into one where she could hear what the people who knew about the frozen fountain had to say about her indirectly.

Maria never wanted to mention the subject because she feared recalling horrible memories, yet seeing the soldier being this thankful for what she had done made her heart feel warm. 

A faint warm smile appeared on her face, and Maria felt happy to hear how her act ended up saving someone's life.

"Soldier. Now that you found your ice mage, what do you intend to do?" Maira asked.