Since she has chosen this path on her own, she cantin even if she realizes how difficult the journey is. If she got lost or injured, it was her to me. Thats the first thing she thought about the moment she woke up the next morning in Lukrovs embrace.


    It was her first time seeing the bonfires ashes vanished in the air leaving a smoky odor.


    The morning dew was absorbed by the ground and reflected a rainbow under the sunlight. Chizuru slowly raised her body with a squeak, looked around her surroundings and began to scream briefly.


    Lukrov was staring at her with his piercing sharp eyes from a few meters away. Leaning against a tree in an appearance as if hes already prepared to go on a journey, while carrying a helmet on his other arm; he was dressed in an armor that she should have thrown offst night. His expression was somber enough to be called gloomy, and he gave off a dreadful appearance that made her frightened unintentionally.


    G-Good Morning Lukrov


    Chizuru managed to greet him, but he didnt reply as expected.


    The forest exposed by the morning sun felt so much better than in the darkness of the night, and the cedar tree were tall enough that she couldnt even see the tip ending in any moment even if she were to look up. Instead, there were some orange-colored fruits standing close to the trees, giving a colorful atmosphere.


    The morning scenery was refreshing, except for Lukrov who gave off a solemn mood.


    She can even hear the birds chirping somewhere.


    For the time being, Chizuru corrected her posture and tried to main as much dignity as possible by stroking the front of her torn off dress on the chest area. However, there were only to a certain extent of her parts that was eptable to conceal right after being torn off shily, Chizuru turned crimson and gnawed on her lips tightly as she had no choice but to sit down.


    Lukrov continued to stare at Chizuru and observes her, but after a short while he threw a cluster of white cloth in front of Chizuru.


    Put this on


    Chizuru unfold the cloth in front of her timidly, it was very simr to a shirt. It was a two piece cloth sewed together so that the neck and both arms woulde out, but this ismon in this world.


    Chizuru meekly muttered Thank You and put on the simple shirt over her torn off dress.


    For the time being, Chizuru stood up and reaffirmed her surroundings after returning to a state where she could maintain her dignity as a person.


    Like Lukrov, the horse tied to the nearby tree seems to be already ready for the journey..


    Are you going?


    In response to Chizurus question, Lukrov nodded silently.


    ErrrI-I thought youd take meIs that okay?


    Regarding this question, Lukrov answered with frightful wrinkles between his eyebrows.


    Are you sure you want to go with me


    An angry voice that springs from the bottom of hell was emitted from the strong knight with a handsome face. The silver helmet he was holding on his arm, and a long sword that sways on the hip. If you are an ordinary woman born and raised in the modern Japan, youll definitely tremble. Even Chizuru is no exception.


    I-I want to go. Id like to go But, thatI already had sexMaybe Ill be abandoned


    The wrinkles between Lukrovs eyebrows have intensified listening to Chizurus flustered exnation. Supposing if such thing was possible.


    Sex?


    Its about sex


    Why would I abandon you for that reason?  Lukrovs lips nted sarcastically. That should be your specialty


    As Chizuru couldnt find the words to retort, she could only suppress her emotions.


    For the time being, she might not longer have any fear of being abandoned, but at the same time, he doesnt trust Chizuru at all as it seemed like he was transmitting an intense sensation that is simr to hatred.


    While he was preparing for the journey, he stared at her with a stern look, is it because he doubted that Chizuru wouldnt stay?


    If so, then why?


    He no longer loves Chizuru


    As he can sense the numerous doubts floating in her eyes, Lukrov stopped leaning against the tree, moved away his body and took one step forward.


    Before I take you back to my mansion; let me rify a few things


    In a business-like tone with a mix of warning, Chizuru had no choice but to nod as she waited nervously for his next phrase.


    I paid arge amount of gold to take you in Theres one thing I want to ask, do you really want to stay in that filthy vige for a long time?


    N-Never


    So, at least I saved you from a poor vige. Ill let you live a good life in the mansion. Also, assign you a courtdy But


    But?


    It was absolutelypassion. Its only righteous for a knight to not forsake an old acquaintance buried in a potato field


    An old acquaintance.


    She thought there was a poisonous arrow pierced into her chest. Chizuru firmly pursed her lips and breathe quietly. Lukrov continued to remark while quietly await for her reaction.


    You will stay in my mansion for a while. If you want to leave after that, you can do as you like. It would be helpful to give a few words this time


    Lukrovs eyes were dark from Chizurus point of view. It feels entirely like she was being challenged.


    No, its not like that. Perhaps, its probably because Lukrov was trying to make sure of Chizuru.


    Chizuru takes a breath, straightened her back and confronted the knight.


    I will not leave, at least not until you try to force me out


    Is that so


    Lukrov snorts mockingly.


    For you Ill remain here unless Ive be a hindrance to you. Ill never leave you


    When Chizuru retorted, the two of them are staring at each other.


    Hes looking at Chizurus tiny body and hair, as if making sure every single detail about her is still the same. Chizuru gazed at Lukrov the same way as he did.


    Seeing Lukrov reflected under the sun certainly feels like 14 years has passed. The glossy ck hair that just started to mix with a little bit of white, the youthful skin tinged with a slight redness has lost its springiness, and grew into a face of a dignified adult man.


    If some of the rumors she heard from Dorothy were true, then thest 14 years he had encountered would have been full with hardships and difficulties.


    Even if his past is like that, it seemed to be loved by Chizuru.


    If she can recall, when they first met; Lukurov didnt knelt down in front of Chizuru so easily. The reason is that, during her stay for a year; nearly half of it was Chizuru harboring unrequited love for Lukrov. At least Chizuru thought so.


    So, dont give up.


    And lets rify one more thing, Chizuru


    Chizurus heart was pounding as he suddenly calls out her name. However, Lukrov turned his back towards Chizuru and started to move forward towards the horse. Over his back, Lukrov told her


    I dont love you anymore Stop expecting any emotions from me


    And, the silver helmet he held earlier was now slowly covering his head.


    Even though she tried to put up with it, a quick stream of tears shed on Chizurus cheek. However, Chizuru wiped it off with the back of her hand before she was aggravated by Lukrov.  My heart is already decided. Im prepared. Never give up.


    I know


    Chizuru answered. I know, dont worry


    The two began their journey, straddled on the horse together, just likest night. Lukrov held the reins and Chizuru was holding a cloth in front of her due to the previous love making. Even though they are so close, their hearts are far apart.


    However, after moving forward towards the forest for a short while, Lukrov was heard sighing and muttering briefly after being silence for a long time.


    No, you dont know anything. Nothing