"I've never had trouble finding partners for that-not for just that, at the very least." Manuela had had plenty of trouble forming lasting relationships with men, of course, but she'd never lacked for attention of the more immediate, carnal sort. "But the fact that we're being... 'encourage' to, if not forced, by an outside power is disconcerting."

When she had more time to think on it, Manuela would likely realize it wasn't actually all that different from how she'd come to see Fodlan-that she needed to use her looks and charm to ensnare a man and ensure her future. But in the moment? It all felt highly inappropriate.