《Born as the Daughter of the Wicked Woman》


 Chapter 1

    The memories of my previous life came to my mind suddenly after one year of birth. I was reading a novel because of a friends rmendation. The first part of the novel is where the female protagonist defeats the viiness whos been harassing her, and then marries a wonderful male protagonist.


    The viiness dies eventually and the protagonist soon gives birth to sons and daughters while living a happy life. And I became the reincarnation of the viinesss daughter, not the child of the protagonists.


    In defeat, the viinessmits an unforgivable sin and was confined to a very high tower by the male protagonist. Damn it, there was no detailed exnation of the crime. Born as the daughter of a viin in such a low-fidelity novel.


    When the memories of my previous life shed before me, only then did I understand this dark environment in front of me.


    Even though Im a sinner, I cant be separated from my mother, so Im sure Im living here too.


    Hyu~


    I peek into the ce where I heard a weeping sound.


    I miss you, Duke. Did you really forget me


    The viiness in the novel, who is my mother, missed her ex-husband from China, and couldnt look outside the window except for when she breastfed me. This gloomy spire wasnt very suitable for parenting, but in the end, I had to cut it off here. Because that would be my destiny, the daughter of a viiness.


    ***


    There was a huge contradiction in the happy ending of this novel. The protagonists were married and spent three years together, as well as being a good-looking couple and always being polite to each other.


    However, with the viiness around, the male protagonist was threatened.


    She couldnt just look at them, she tried to keep her ce to the very end. However, the novels fate was on the side of the heroine, not of the viiness. The hero regarded the effort as defeat, and said she hadmitted a terrible crime that couldnt be forgiven, she was proimed a sinner and was locked up in the tower.


    And here.


    Interestingly enough, the viins body already had the fruit of the male protagonist.


    That fruit was me.


    The daughter of a viiness and the male protagonist.


    But the Duke wasnt interested in me at all, and my mom misses the Duke all day long, ending up with her spending her nights in tears.


    If my destiny is to be born the daughter of a viiness, then so be it.


    Its just a fixed story.


    And if you dont believe so, then youd think this was just harsh reality.


    But believing will open your mind.


    ***


    Time has passed and I am now two.


    When I was able topletely live on my own, I left my mother.


    It seems that my mom still misses my father because when I left she didnt care about me.


    I cant really remember the details.


    Wouldnt it have been a little sad, though?


    Is it just my wish?


    I left my mother behind, and I entered the doomed orphanage in the empire.


    Im only two years old and can barely walk. And the people who were interested in me just looked at me silently.


    Shes the daughter of that evil woman, will she be like that woman as well?


    Are you going to starve her this much?


    Wouldnt the Duke prefer it if she were dead?


    They were busy gossiping among themselves even though the boat was making a rumbling sound. It was an environment that was different from the tower. It is dark, dull, and deserted, and its an environment void of affection.


    If I hadnt remembered my previous life, I would be crying everyday. I am fortunate to have the memories of my past life. Shedding tears, it must have bothered me more to see it.


    I began to gradually adapt to this malice.


    But it seems a little bit painful.


    ***


    I am now six.


    At some point, the nursery staff began to bother me.


    I called you. Didnt you hear it??


    He appeared suddenly and made a nonsense argument.


    Are you staring at me? You look like your mother, so youre a match for the west reading!


    It was already difficult to withstand the neglect and coldness, but the most difficult part was the sharp words they would say.


    I didnt want to be familiar with this. However, the reality was so harsh that I wasnt able to withstand it.


    By the time I became insensitive to this reality, no matter how secretly it has been happening, I was finally noticed by the nursery school director. The nursery manager looked at the embarrassed staff with azy and grumpy stare and quietly turned his head to me.


    Who would know if it doesnt leak out?


    The words of the nursery head didnt sound like she was ming the staff, but rather small permission to encourage what they were doing. From then on, they didnt feel guilty.


    ***


    I am seven years old.


    I know it shouldnt be, but now Ive been held back.


    Damn story. Damn story


    Should I me my wicked mother?


    Or should I me those people who made me like this?


    Or should I me the main characters of this novel?


    I want to live in peace.


    During my days of depression, someone new entered the nursery. A pretty woman with a clear and good expression treated me kindly, different from the others. If I get hurt, she would take me somewhere to help clean and heal the wound.


    I was very satisfied with this peace, which Ive longed for a long time.


    Yes, how could it be that only crazy people are in this nursery school?


    I prayed earnestly that this peace would remain for a long time.


    ***


    Yes, why would peace stay with the daughter of the viin? I headed to the tower with drivers from the nursery at short notice. I was curious about the reason why he was acting as if he should have never met up with me as I took him with me so suddenly like this.


    So I told the driver why.


    I should be enthusiastic about my mothers appearance before this all ends


    The diver replied, adding that this was a consideration that they gave me. Thest part seems to imply the death of my mother.


    Is this a consideration for me or a consideration for my mother?


    No, this is not a consideration.


    Its not a consideration for us, rather an act to help themselves. An act to take a spoonful of their unpleasant guilt.


    They pretend its for me.


    With no sincerity in their actions.


    I cant even remember my face anymore.


    In the memories of my childhood, my mother was a woman that cried and cried with the longing solely for her husband. There is no way you would want to see a person thatzy.


    Still, it was strange that my mom was dying soon. My dad didnt expect anything anyway, but my mom


    When I was a child, when I cried because I was hungry, she gave me milk.


    Strangely, if I was in my mothers arms, I would have been warm enough to forget all of the hunger and sadness of my future.


    This will be thest time So lets keep it in our memory so that you can remember it every time you miss it.


    But there was no need to make thatmitment. The appearance of the woman lying in the bed was so different from the woman of my memories. She was so skinny at first nce. Waiting for her demise toe.


    Even in my cloudy memories, it was like Yeowon. But not to that degree.


    It didnt matter who saw her, she was sick and it seems that she would die soon.


    Even her breath would cut off wildly.


    D-duke


    She was barely breathing, and she was looking for her love right until the end. Looking at it, strangely, my heart seems to be hurting and tears seem to well in my eyes.


    The wounds of my past started to hurt. Even until the end, I thought my mom wasnt interested in me Strangely, my heart hurts.


    ncing, the driver turns his head to the side, but as we make eye contact, he turns away, as if avoiding my gaze.


    Go on and on, Duke. I think she has abandoned herself trying to find that husband of hers.


    She couldnt call her Duke, so maybe she called her daughter.


    Yes, she was also pretending for us.


    Her Duke, Duke, Duke.


    Her Love, Love, Love.


    Anyway, that person forgot us and went on to live a happy life. Why dont you know that?


    Or you did know about it and just didnt let go?


    I hated her, but on the other hand, I understood her. Because of the sad feelings that I kept and cherished for those who didnt look at me until the very end had made more sense at this very moment.


    I approached her side carefully, to the gaze that did not turn to me until the end. Then, I carefully ced my hands on hers, which were loose, rough, and dry.


    Despite being skinny like a skeleton, the difference between the hand of my adult mother and my young hand was quiterge.


    This is thest time.


    I wanted to hold hands with my mother, so I forcibly stretched her small hand and caressed her finger. As my warmth was added to my mothers cold hands, her gaze slowly shifted toward me.


    My name is Daphne.


    .


    No one named me, so I named myself. Its pretty, isnt it?


    .


    I heard that my golden eyes match the color of my dads, the Duke.


    If you look at me and think of your ex-husband, youll miss him again.


    Nevertheless


    Iughpellingly, to suppress the feelings that well up in me.


    In the end, I want to send her off whileughing.


    I understand mom. Because mom isnt really my mother but the wife of the Duke, so I wont forget that


    .


    Dont struggle anymore, sleep well.


    Dont wait for dad who wonte, please feelfortable.


    D


    Her voice began to bust hard as if trying to say something. However, no other words followed.


    As if the voice that couldnte out was resentful, mother made a whispering sound several times and wept.


    Unbearable tears flowed down her skinny face


    Her eyes narrowed as if trying to hold back her tears.


    I waited for a while, but her closed eyes did not open.


    The driver next to her quietly covered her mothers face with a white cloth.


    Goodbye, mom.


    That was myst greeting.

 Chapter 2

    Its time to go back.


    The knight, who watched my mothers death with me, held my hand tightly.


    No, I havent seen her yet! Even though it was a miserable and horrible figure, I wanted to see her until the end to keep it in my eyes.


    Since this is thest time, after this i wont be able to see you anymore!


    A little more; a little more!


    At least, I wanted to wipe away the tears that were in my mothers eyes.


    But my desperate defiance was just one of the little annoyances for the knight.


    The knights wanted to dispose the body even faster.


    I gave my body strength to try to move forward. Then the knight, with a strong grip on my arm, looked down at me with an irritated face.


    I saw that he was trying to yell out loud as if he wouldnt hold back his anger, so I hurriedly asked him before he even got angry.


    Whats going to happen to my mom now?


    The knights gaze immediately became strange at the question. A very slight sense of bewilderment seemed to remind him that I was only seven years old.


    He didnt know what to say so he just stayed silent.


    Well, Im just a seven-year-old kid.


    Since Im not old enough to understand what happens, so now how will you exin me that?


    The knight kept his mouth shut a few times, and he soon raised his lips. There was scorn in his eyes.


    Your mother will be punished now.


    ..


    Punishment so youre saying it wasnt a punishment she recieved untill now?


    Yeah, I didnt even expect you tofort me.


    To them, I am not a seven-year-old child, but finally,


    Because shes the daughter of a dead evil woman!


    The knights eyes nced back. My mothers body was covered with arger white cloth than before.


    I saw my moms cold body being moved by someone to somewhere else. And the knight threw a terrible look at her side and looked at me. His hateful eyes were no different than when he looked at my mother.


    Your mother was punished by going to hell for doing bad things.


    bad things?


    Yes, bad things! So dont do any bad things and live a good life.


    The knight wanted to add something else, but he turned his head and shut his mouth again.


    Maybe he wanted to say otherwise, youd turn out to be like your mother.


    The knight dragged me out once again. The disdainful nce which were seen a liitle while ago, couldnt be erased from his sight.


    I turned my head back as I struggled along the knights fast steps. A narrow, grayish-colored spire was seen above the high stairs.


    Living was like hell, but youre going to hell even if you die?


    My mom only did it to protect her, and you kept her locked up in a ce like this until she died.


    What did my mom do to you guys so badly?


    What did I do to you guys?


    Because I couldnt eat properly, my small size body is now being dragged away by the knight. I can feel the gaze from behind.


    Is it a malicious or a reproachful gaze? What is certain is that none of them feel sorry for the daughter who lost her mother.


    Neither sympathetic norforting gaze exists. That was the reality given to me.


    The novel did not borate on the death of the wicked woman and her daughter. I guess it was enough to mention such a dark story in one line after a happy ending.


    But-


    What if the heroine didnt disturb the couple in the first ce?


    What if she hadnt touched a man with a wife?


    If she had fallen in love with another sub-man, It wouldnt be like this!


    History is said to be recorded from the winners point of view.


    My mom will be remembered as a loser and a wicked woman who will never be good even if she is burned to death forever.


    And I will also be recorded in the story as an extra who died miserably.


    I dont like that.


    My mothers death was the intended ending of this novel.


    My death is also scheduled.


    Ill be surrounded and beaten to death by many people tomorrow ording to the flow of the novel.


    Because Im the daughter of a wicked woman?


    Thats not funny.


    Even if I raise my head, there is no good look at me. Even though i am just a child and have just lost my mother.


    I tried to keep myposure and gave strength to my body, but failed to withstand the force of the knight who dragged me and fell down.


    I fell down with a pretty loud noise, so I could feel the eyes of the people around me again. I slowly raised my head and tried to stand up without even thinking about the prickly and negative gaze around me.


    I cant see the faces of the people around me.


    The sky was so clear that it looked strangely grayish.


    And in such a grayish world, I could see people dyed ck.


    They looked down at me with sharp eyes as if they wanted to tear me to pieces.


    They were looking at me as if I was a monster.


    But to me, they were the real monsters.


    ***


    Oh, my God! Daphne!


    I turned my head when I heard the sound of running and a sweet voice that didnt fit in here.


    The only woman who was nice to me in the nursery was running fast towards me.


    .was it Ulinee?


    I searched through my hardened mind and remembered her name, then i called out her name.


    ..Ulinee


    Yes, Daphne. my God. Youre just gonna watch her fall like that?


    An angry voice made the knight standing next to her had a wry look.


    Then the knight stared at me from behind Ulinee, who raised and supported me. He red at me as if it was my fault that I fell so why should he be the one hearing that and turned his head away.


    I didnt even want to deal with it.


    Oh, my God. Your knees are all scraped.


    ..


    Lets go back quickly and heal it.


    If youre talking about going back, you are probably talking about the nursery.


    Wait a minute.


    Come to think of it, Ill end up living in a nursery school, so how the hell am I going to be beaten to death?


    My death would have been marked as a single line in the novel.


    So how the hell do i die ..?


    Oh, Daphne. You must be very sick. What should I do?


    Why was she outside the nursery?


    The voice of the one who was sad to see my wound suddenly stopped.


    I raised my head, feeling strange, and met her eyes, which were more glistening than usual.


    Oh, theres someone to meet before we go back.


    Who?


    Ulinee smiled at my question and nodded.


    And there was a big shadow over us as we had waited for it. I felt something was strange and began to raise my head slowly.


    Arge physique, dark navy hair as if the night sky were stained, and a sharp jawline that matches those sharp-eyed eyes. There was one thing that stood out above the colorful appearance that told me he was the main character.


    The glittering gold eyes that Ive only seen in the mirror.


    I was able to notice instinctively. The fact that the person standing before me is my father.


    I quickly lowered my head before my father made a eye contact with me.


    My body trembled because I felt like his eyes were full of displeasure that was directed at me.


    My mom died, and now I haveDad the only one who didnt even care about my existence.


    If even my dad throw me away, Im really going to


    I wiped my sweaty hands on my hook which were caused by nervousness.


    Who is this child?


    The knight seemed a little perplexed at the question.


    Ulinee, who had alreadye to my side, spoke in a bright voice.


    This child is the daughter of the Duke.


    Daughter?


    It was a ridiculous voice.


    I could hear a voice asking the knight next to me, leaving Ulinee behind.


    His voice full of irritation asked, and the knight who hesitated, answered.


    Shes the daughter of the evil Freyr.


    ha.


    A deafening sigh and a clear feeling of displeasure. A cold gaze that descended upon me.


    but if you miss this opportunity.


    Ill die tomorrow, no matter what.


    I dont want to die


    I moved my hand slowly, unable to raise my head.


    As if a doll was moving, she raised her fluttering arm to the point where he almost shook her trembling hands.


    Papa.


    And when I started calling my dad i slowly started to lift my head up.


    He refused to listen to what i was trying to say and backed away as if he was avoiding my hand trying to hold onto the hem of his robe.


    Not my child.


    His eyes went through my eyes to the crumbly, short hair.


    Purple hair, color passed down by my mother.


    Perhaps it reminded him of my mother, his expression got deeper than before.


    It cant be true.


    There was no hesitation in his firm answer.


    She was a woman who hired someone to hurt Eunice. Since she didnt have money, she probably said that she would give herself away to one of them.


    Its understandable since she was a woman who had been trying hard to keep power and her ce better than love.


    There was a terrible silence.


    Dont dare put a dirty child in your mouth, as my child, when no one knows whose blood is flowing in her.


    When that was over, knights with my mothers body came down behind us.


    Dad, or the Duke, moved his steps towards the people as if he had no interest in me, and soon after, there was a peculiar, lifting sound of the cloth.


    You certainly died. I know the body. Take care of it.


    As if there was nothing more to see, the Duke walked out of there without hesitation.


    Thest time he visited was to confirm the death of his wife.


    The evil womans death, my mothers death, was miserable to the end.


    It was a death that everyone was happy about.


    ***


    I was led back to the nursery by Ulinees hand.


    On the way, Ulinee didnt say anything to me and that wasnt like her.


    Id normally feel strange, but I wasnt in a condition to notice it.


    As soon as Ulinee entered the nursery, she looked down at me with a cold gaze, as the Duke did.


    Ulinee?


    The expression of Ulinee, who always smiled at my small voice, was stiff.


    Ah, really.


    A voice full of annoyance, not the usual kind voice. The woman, who swept my hair roughly, looked down at me.


    I thought what I was holding was a golden cord to straighten out my life but, it was a rotten one.


    A scornful look now followed over the irritated voice.


    I tried to follow her and livefortably as a duchesss nanny.


    Only then I could see why she was kind to me.


    Ah, Im so annoyed. What should I do?


    A voice that couldnt stand anger, and then, with the end of the words, came the sneer from behind.

 Chapter 3

    A burst ofughter from behind made me turn my head. There were six children of the same age as me who gathered together andughed at me.


    I heard your moms dead?


    Everyone said it was good! I heard that your mom was an awful person!


    The cute girl with the scarlet hair easily brought out those cruel words which didnt go well with her appearance.


    Its annoying.


    I am annoyed, but what can I do here?


    Thats it, lets just go in.


    As if she didnt like the way I ignored and went back as usual, there was a sound that called me, Hey! Hey! from behind.


    I ignored her and continued to walk forward but, I had no choice but to stop abruptly at the girls word.


    I heard your dad killed your mom.


    .what?


    Your dad locked your mom in the spire until she died! We also heard that your dad abandoned your mom and you!


    ..


    Thats what the kids around me said and started to discuss with each other.


    How much did he hate you to have you thrown away!


    He must have killed her because she was bad!


    Then you must be bad, too! Theres no way you can be good since your mother is evil!


    Withorwithoutmalice,those words began to stir up my heart, which was still frail. I dont think my heart wants to be torn apart and suffer anymore. Because it felt so unfair, I wanted to get angry, cry, and scream.


    Youre not supposed to get angry here if you get angry here


    Why not?


    First, its you guys who insulted my mother and then criticized me.


    No, but theyre still kids.


    Well, lets think its not a malicious word since they might not know whats right or wrong words to say yet.


    Really, it serves you right!~


    Several children opened their mouths at the same time as if they had been forced out.


    At that moment, I felt something snap in my head.


    It serves you right ?


    I started to think whether I wouldve let them go if they tried to pull themselves back together.


    Are they really doing this because they cannot distinguish between good and evil?


    It just cannot be because they dont know No. This was pure malice. They despise me because I am a wicked womans daughter.


    I looked at the children with more profound eyes than usual. Within the eyes of the children, there was no such thing as a mistake, nor a sense of guilt.


    At first nce, the expression that looked pleasant seemed quite different from the knight I had seen a while ago.


    These children with evil thoughts started to burst intoughter. Theyughed at me to the fullest and ridiculed me. They did it as if they could as if it had been decided that they should do it. No one has ever taught them those words.


    I slowly lifted my head to the sky.


    Since when did my world be so gray?


    Its a sunny and clear sky, but I could see nothing but the dark sky that was turning ck without a glimmer of bright light.


    A ridiculousugh came out at my sight as if the endofthis scene hade.


    Ha, ha, ha.


    The children flinched at myughter and attempted to open their mouths once more. I lowered my raised head and looked at the children again.


    The children paused for a moment with my cold gaze, but they quickly opened their mouths to look at me with momentum.


    But still, dont you think Im better than you guys?


    what?


    It was a small voice but the surroundings were quiet and I could reach the children. The children blinked at my voice mixed with ridicule.


    Then, as soon as they were insulted, their face started to turn red.


    I became an orphan when my mother died, but you are not.


    Hey!


    Youre an orphan like me, so why are you taking it out on me?


    As if they didnt understand, they lowered their heads and their faces grew redder and redder as though they were about to explode.


    With a shame-filled expression, they kept their mouth shut.


    Or the face with the head down.


    With them having different expressions, I sighed and looked at them.


    Ifyoudontwanttohearthis,donttalklikethat.


    The cold gaze dampened the childrens spirits a little differently than before. They didnt think Id take it this way, so they were a little embarrassed.


    Everyone began to feel uneasy and embarrassed. I didnt want to have any more arguments with these kids who were just thinking about bothering me.


    Yes, theres no use making enemies.


    I guess Ive to be careful about my rtionship with other people because I dont know how Im going to die.


    Itriedtoleavethesilentchildrenbehindandgobacktomyroom. But contrary to my mind, the world seems to have no desire to send me back to my room easily.


    TheforgottenUlinee approachedmeandgrabbedme.


    As she frowned in astonishment, she began to resent me with a fierce look.


    Oh my Goodness! What a cruel thing to tell to your friend!


    ..


    Youve been watching quietly for a while.


    Now youre going to pretend you dont know and abuse me together.


    It was so clear that she was going to discard me and throw away even the little favoritism she had for me.


    Where did you learn such mean words! By chance! Was it because you resemble your mother, your personality is like hers as well?


    Though I let go of the backbiting, it was a sound that could reach not only me but also the children behind me. When I flinched and tried to say something, she began to admonish me again as if she didnt want to hear it.


    I cant help it because I cant even see the attitude of repenting! Daphne, I want you to know that there is no rice for you until you reflect on what youve done wrong!


    ..


    You have to answer it!


    yes.


    Inoddedinresponsetothevoice,whichwouldneverletgounlessIanswered her.


    Thereplywasgreetedwithughfrombehind. Unlike usual, Ulinee sided with them, not me, and the kids who were lively again startedughing at me as if they were excited.


    And Ulinee didnt bother to point out that look.


    Thengotoyourroomandthinkaboutwhatyoudidwrong!Illcheckitouter!


    Yes.


    SheletmegowhenIheartilyresponded.


    Icouldhearchildreughinginthebackground. With all those childish sneers behind my back, I headed to my room.


    ***


    I closed the door with a force that made a squeaky noise that I did not want to hear.


    The door, which failed to fit the door frame properly, was barely closed by my bodys force.


    A very small, old room.


    No, looking at the warehouse, I sat on the floor and buried my head on a hard bed.


    A mother who died for being a viin, a duke who doesnt think of me as his child.


    Ive be an orphan.


    It was a decided story anyway, and I thought I would not feel any feelings, but my heart felt strange. It seemed that this throbbing and worrisomeness feelings would explode if someone touched it the wrong way.


    Iburiedmyfaceinbedagainto ease thefeelingthatwaingup.


    In the end, my world will be gray and get darker and darker and eventually, I will die.


    People who me me for being the daughter of a wicked woman.


    Children in the nursery who show pure evil.


    The employees of the nursery who are now likely to enjoy the abuse openly.


    A nursery director who will tolerate everything.


    WhowillIbekilledby?


    I cant think of any details.Thewretched original novel didnt help me much.


    Ialsohavetogoalongwiththisstoryanddie


    When I think of death, I see a cold, hardened mother that I saw a while ago.


    No.


    I dont want to die.


    I want to live.


    Like a time limit, I didnt want to tremble in fear, thinking that tomorrow would be the day I die. I didnt want to die miserably, like the flow of the novel.


    My mom wouldnt want me to die like that either.


    Even though we never had a conversation before, wouldnt she still think like that?


    If she wanted me to die, she would not have given at any rate the consideration to breastfeed me or hug me as a child.


    I thought there was only one person who didnt wish for my death and it seemed like there was hope for my future. Regardless of how terrible her figure looked, I began to reconsider my moms face in my mind and raised my head.


    The sun was setting before I knew it. The winter days are short, so it should be around six oclock right now.


    As soon as I realized the time, I heard footsteps outside. I was nervous at the sound of footsteps of about two or three people, and the door opened with a loud noise.


    Haveyoudonesomereflection?


    ..


    I just shook my head with no expression.


    Ulinee, looking at my figure, looked at her seniors behind her. She looked at the women who used to abuse me and sighed heavily.


    Ive been spoiling her too much so far. Seniors were all right. A child this rude


    I looked up at Ulinee with an expressionless look.


    Imgoingtohaveto teach her a lesson.


    Her seniors burst intoughter at the harsh words.


    You truly take after your mother since your hair is an ominous purple. I dont want to see it.


    I see, you still havent reflected on yourself and that wont work. Youre going with me somewhere tomorrow.


    I flinched and shivered at her words.


    If you go to a ce where theres plenty of people to scold, then youll probably wake up!


    Ulinee naturally stepped in between them and led them outughing together. Then after saying not to even think abouting out, she left the door open and disappeared.


    Whereareyoutakingme?


    Is it a scary ce to see since you said with a threatening, intimidating look?


    taking me somewhere and I guess Iwasbeatentodeath.


    I was able to predict how my death would happen after this situation.


    Ill have to get out of here today to live.


    That way, I wont die as nned.


    I had to get out of here to live.

 Chapter 4

    After fidgeting with my fluffy purple hair, I thought it wasnt time to do that and took out all of my luggage.


    It was all useless.


    There really is nothing for me.


    The state gave the nursery a room, some clothes, old shoes, and one or two hair ties.


    Therewasnoreasonformetolivelikethis.WhydidI try to ept it unconditionally?


    Ishouldhaverun away a long time ago. No, if I had run away, I wouldnt have seen my momsst figure.


    The old clothes in front of me were crumpled as I tried to cool down my anger.


    My mother, a viiness died, and her daughter, I will die tomorrow.


    And as time goes by, a new story will begin.


    A story of the first part main characters cute daughter growing up happily. The story will start when she suddenly run away from home and venture to travel to neighboring empires, make precious friends, and even make loved ones and live happily ever after.


    They will end the story with a happy ending.


    After that, I felt sick as if the miserable death of my mother and mine were natural consequences.


    Ididntwanttostandbyandwatchthehappymoment.


    If I twist the story a little or even a lot, will the storycontinue toflowthe same way?I burst outughing at the sudden curiosity.


    If it goes the way it is, its my fate, and if it changes, Illseed. Lets not think about the consequences without even trying.


    As I listened to the noise outside, I took out one of my three clothes and began wiping out my wounds with water. After fixing my right ankle that may have sprained when I fell, with clothes, I pushed the bed slightly to find a small door.


    Im d the room was used as a warehouse.


    Unlike other children, I was not allowed to stay in a room with several people. It was obvious, they would make a fuss if they were with me but


    The real reason seemed to be to abuse me quietly and neglect me. So, I stayed alone in the room which they used to use as a warehouse.


    Itslikeawall.Im d no one recognized it. This door was connected to arge warehouse right next door.


    You can get out through here.


    But wouldnt it be too reckless? No, theres nowhere else to back down.


    Iretracedthecontentsofthesecondpartandcameupwithsome useful information that mighthelpme.


    After the death of the evil woman and her daughter, the male protagonist in Part 2 tries to find and kill the top-ranking merchant in his childhood.


    The scheme failed, however, and he was captured straight away. The head of the merchant had made him the sessor because of his youthful look.


    Then starts the story of the male protagonist, whoter bes the merchants head and meets the female protagonist and finds love and joy in the midst of adventure, adversity, and hardship.


    First of all, the male protagonist shouldnt be there.


    Otherwise, he will meet their daughterter and eventually fall in love with her. I had to keep them from seeing each other as much as I could.


    And I needed another ce where I could trust myself to twist the story.


    Theres only one way.Even if I were the daughter of a wicked woman, there was only one person who could protect me for a moment if my worth were proven.


    Chloe Benedito, head of the group of merchants of Benedito (1*), who will be male leads adoptive mother.


    The reason why she took the male lead as her foster son was because of his ambitious spirit. She thought she could use the male lead for her revenge, so she adopted him as her son.


    Chloe Benedito.


    A woman who was formerly a child at this nursery and was sold by her friend, the nursery director, to the back world when she became an adult.


    She overcame all the hardships to sit at the top of Benedito and was a woman who burned the sword of vengeance against the nursery and those behind them.


    ording to the novel, the head of the nursery keeps books rted to the outside world in his office. He said he was careless and left it in the drawer, which led to the main characters breaking into the nursery to find itter.


    I guess people who always told me that, if I have sinned then I should be punished for my crimes, should be able to bear this much of punishment.


    Tonight, when everyone was asleep, I had to steal the document and get out of here and make a deal with the head of the merchant.


    At least I have to finish everything before tomorrow.


    I waited for everyone to go to sleep, enduring a great deal of pain in my throbbing body. Since I was more tired than usual, my body demanded rest, but my mind was especially clear.


    Is it natural that I only feel that I have to get out of this ce and survive safely?


    Thesoundsthat filledthe nursery startedtodisappear. I already knew that both the nursery director and the other staff were going back to their rooms before midnight.


    No one was on duty at night for the nursery.


    I hope nothing special happens.I tried to put my pounding heart to ease and waited for time to pass.


    Soon the bell rang from the capitals high clock tower. It was a midnight bell. Following the sound, I slowly rose from my seat.


    I opened the small door behind the bed, and instead of my shoes, I wrapped my torn clothes around my feet to prepare if something happened and came out.


    It was much quieter than wearing old shoes. I followed the darkness and slowly headed towards the nursery directors office.


    After midnight, the nursery was calm and quiet. I could only hear my breath as if I were the only one living and breathing here. It wasforting to think that the silence would give me hope that I would live in the future.


    The cold, which felt even colder than usual, could not break my will to stay alive. Swallowing white breath as much as possible, I slowly moved my feet. After a long walk, I was able to arrive at the directors office, which was located far away from the warehouse.


    Just like my feet, I carefully grasped the doorknob with my hand wrapped in old clothes.


    The door was open as if it had never been closed as if he were the head of the nursery with insensitivity to safety.


    As I slowly opened the door to make no sound, the room was dark, as if no one was there.


    I listened carefully and confirmed that I could not hear any sound and closed the door quietly.


    Hooo


    Ilookedaroundtheroomwithalittlesigh,butunlikenurseryschool,therewasalotoffancystuffinthere.


    Are there any sponsorships behind the back, in addition to the money provided by the country?


    Hes an extravagant man.


    Once again, after speaking ill of the director, I began to quickly search his drawers, thinking that this was not the right time.


    The first drawer had nothing special, and the second drawer had nothing special too.


    Whatwasleftwasrge, third drawer, locked with a key. Yet it was locked when I tried to open it, and I could hear only the rattling sound.


    Youneedakey.


    I didnt think there would be a problem like this. Well, they said the male protagonist was very strong, so I guess he just blew it open.


    I was impatient, so I tried to open the drawer a few more times, but I immediately turned my head to another ce with a sense of aphorism.


    Lets think slowly. The director is more clumsy than a horseman, so he could hide his keys here for some possible circumstances.


    I stood up and headed toward the center of the room.


    A wall filled with expensive-looking books.


    A desk made ofsolidwood and tworgeflowerpotsnext to it.


    Athickcarpetonthefloorandrgesofaonit.


    Hes a person whos toozy to move, so if he thinks hes minimizing the flow of movement, its a nearby flowerpot, and if you think about the director being left-handed then


    I walked to the flowerpot on the left side of his desk and looked inside, and there was a little key twinkling in it as I expected.


    Found it!


    The key that I found was, fortunately, the key to the drawer.


    I put the key in the keyhole and turned it around, and then the drawer opened with a click and a cheerful sound.


    Unfortunately, it was difficult to grasp the contents of the document because I did not learn the letters of this world properly.


    Okay, Id be happy if I had enough documents to trade.


    I took all the documents out of the drawer and put it in my bag one by one.


    But what is this?


    In addition to the documents, there was a unique-looking stamp.


    If its kept in a ce like this, then its important. Im going to take this, too.


    No one is watching, but just in case, I will hide the seal in the pocket next to my bag and now, I have taken everything I need.


    Click.


    I closed the drawer, locked it back with a key, and put it back in the pot.


    All I had to do was carry my bag properly and walk out, but I could hear footsteps outside at that moment.


    The tter of footsteps somehow seemed to be more than one.


    Oh no, what should I do?


    This room was at the end of the buildings hall. So, it was clear that the footsteps were heading to this room.


    If you go out now, youll get caught.


    I might be beaten to death here.


    The director was much more hot-tempered than other employees, and sometimes he was very violent towards the children who did wrong. If he knew that I was trying to take this and get away, he could kill me on this spot.


    Youre doing this so you wont die. You need to wake up, Daphne!


    Taking control of my confused mind, I hurriedly looked around the room again.


    Jumping from the second floor with this body would lead me to death.


    There was only one ce where I could hide in this ce where there was not even a wardrobe, and I didnt have time to hesitate.


    I wiped the sweat off my forehead and crumpled myself under the sofa, holding my bag dearly.


    I couldnt even eat properly, so, fortunately, my small and soft body was able to get under it when I put a little effort.


    The door opened as soon as I hid perfectly, covering my front with a descending cloth.


    I held my bag in my arms and covered my mouth with my other hand to make sure my breath sound wouldnt be heard and to swallow it as much as possible.


    Immediately, the voice of the rooms owner, the directors voice was heard.


    So youre taking Daphne there tomorrow?


    Yeah, shes been a little cheeky since I was a little nice to her so I need to give her some scolding.


    The voice of Ulinee followed.


    Oh, my God. Look at you saying that now your ns are messed up. There are so many people who hate her mother. You might get beaten to death if you go there. Do you think purple hair ismon?


    Why would she die? All I have to do is make her scared and act properly.


    Do as you please. The Duke doesnt seem to care about her anyway, and seeing that we havent heard from her mothers side too, shespletely abandoned. Shes pathetic, too.


    Do you feel sorry for her?


    A giggle followed a yful voice.


    However, after a while, the conversation between those two was interrupted.


    Come here for a moment.


    And it seemed that a slow movement of footsteps wasing towards the sofa.


    Did I get caught?


    IheldmybreathasmuchasIcould,shutmymouthtightly,andpushedmy bodyfurtherinside.


    With the slowly approaching sound, the footsteps stopped in front of the sofa I was hiding.


    No, please


    I closed my eyes and hoped the two wouldnt know.

 Chapter 5

    Look at this. What is this?


    its over.


    When I was about to give up everything with a hunch they had caught me, I suddenly heard the noise of someone sitting on the sofa with a thud.


    Theres a beauty on it.


    Oh my, really.


    Behind the sly directors voice, Ulinees coy voice which was different, from before followed.


    What kind of trick is this?


    We dont even have much time together, so take a guess.


    Are you sensible because I asked you not to show off in front of the seniors in case we might get caught?


    Yes, Im disappointed, to be honest.


    And I immediately heard strange noises. I breathed out a slight breath at the loud sounds of tossing and turning.


    Oh, my god You two were like this?


    I think the director is already well over his 40s. As far as I know, Ulinee was only in her early twenties.


    No wonder you said you just got into this ce so suddenly. You came in because you had someone to look after you.


    Since its a nursery, thats responsible for the imperial family, no one could effortlesslye in here because the staff here are no less than the civil servant.


    But still, Im d. I did not get caught.


    But what if the two of them do something here?


    I have to get out of here quickly


    I could not see the timing to fall into a sound I did not want to express. I was going to hug myself a little more, but I didnt think the legs I could see before I disappeared.


    Its a problem if that leg identallyes under the sofa.


    When the legse in, you will notice me and then I will


    Ugh,


    I instinctively thought of the violence that would pour into me if I got caught and quickly erased the terrible thoughts. Its better not to have any negative thoughts.


    I hate it here, its cold, its too dark, and its a workce, right?


    When did you argue about that?


    At least I want to go to a warm room with a bed! Its too cold in here! So lets go home.


    You said you didnt want to talk about work at home.


    The director sighed as if he couldnt help it at the irritating voice of Ulinee.


    Okay, lets go home.


    Luckily, as Ulinees voice grew louder, I heard the director moving his body as if he had lost. Soon after, Ulinee got up from the sofa, and both of them smiled and left the room.


    I didnt move until the sound of Ulinees footsteps couldnt be heard in the quiet night. After a long time, I forcibly moved my less trembling body and slowly got out of the sofa. Then I walked straight to the window.


    Haha. Im sure they didnt find out, right?


    When I looked over at the window, I could see the two people walking towards the nurserys main gate. I thought I had to get out of this room quickly as soon as I saw their backs slipping out of the gate.


    I thought I got caught.


    When I feel rxed and relieved, I feel a little more tired than before. I wiped my cold sweat and tried to open the door to get into the hallway. Then, right outside the door, I saw an oil-filledmp.


    In fact, there were a lot ofmps in the warehouse with oil in them.


    As I walked past themp, I decided to revise my n to get out of this ce quietly. Then I turned back and found the matchbox that I saw in the directors drawer and put it in my pocket.


    ***


    When I returned to my room, I spread out myst remaining clothes on the bed as if I were sleeping.


    I want you to be fooled by this.


    With that thought in my mind, I put my old shoes at the door. Except for the bag, moving all the household items back to its ce were all perfect.


    Please be fooled and hope that Im hiding here.


    I had to make sure they didnt know that I had set the fire or that I had disappeared. My n will be perfect if they hide my tracks in fear of others knowing that they let the nursery student die.


    But the clothes are more likely to burn without a trace Id rather burn it to such an extent where my bone disappears as well. Then everyone will think Im dead.


    Goodbye here, too.


    This will be the beginning of my new life. I will survive and twist the beginning of this mess into something else. Now that Ive decided, I wont sit back anymore, waiting for my death.


    I went out to the warehouse without hesitation, looking at the white breath that bloomed in my room.


    I searched the warehouse and saw quite a lot ofmps and oil to fill them up as if they had been saving it hard. When I saw them, I even thought it was cheap that they didnt give any to my room even though there were so manymps.


    Ill let you know its no use saving it.


    I found themps and tossed it all down to the ground. The oil from the cracklingmp started to douse up the floor. They were also flowing gradually into my room. I closed the small door so they could not see my room, and I even filled the locks that the nursery staff had put in the past to prepare for the circumstances I might not have known.


    Because it has to look like I wasnt able to get out of here.


    I hope that when this building burns and the fire goes out, everyone will realize that Im dead.


    Spread it out, please. Itll be easier if Im rumored to be dead.


    I moved my hands, trembling in the cold, to light the match. Looking at a burning little match, I threw it up on the floor. A small fire slowly started to built up big with oil.


    The biging fire gave me an unfamiliar feeling of heat than it did a while back. Soon after, there was a smoky smell of all the stuff being burned within the warehouse. The sudden spread of the burnt smell seemed to cause the mes to rise faster than I expected.


    There was a lot of stuff within the warehouse, but literally, its just a warehouse, and the kids wont starve if theres food provided to them.


    At least they wont have to skip meals like me.


    However, the director of the nursery will have to take responsibility for the fire, and the children will receive the benefit of the damage.


    Theres no such thing as guilt.


    The mes, which rose as fast as my anger, rapidly spread to my room connected to the warehouse. I turned my back and quickly escaped from the warehouse, hoping that thisrge-spreading fire would burn everything. As soon as I got out, the fire began to spread through the door of the warehouse. Finally, for thest time, I saw the small warehouse room I lived in.


    Youve really blocked it.


    I couldnt see it well in the dark, but I could see something firmly blocking the door. I swallowed a bitter smile, looking at an obstacle I didnt clear, in case I would secretly sneak out.


    T/n: her first n was to escape secretly, but she changed itter and she didnt really clear it perfectly.


    You should feel guilty that I died because of you all. Feel guilty and sympathize with the fact that I was a miserable dead child. And after youve forgotten about me in your memory, I will appear perfectly.


    Im going to make this ce a mess like my life so far, putting that guilt aside. The reddish-red me, blooming with oil, swallowed my room before I knew it, and held the warehouse in itself. The sound of the people seemed to be heard little by little, so I hurried out of the nursery through the back door. There was no such thing as looking back on the road.


    * * *


    I hastened my body in the dark, exhaling white breaths. The cold breeze of early winter permeated my thin clothes, but there was no sign of cold weather.


    The novel said the office of Benedito merchants group is in the capital. First, go to the fountain in the center of the capital.


    Im d theres no one walking around. I sneaked out secretly moving quickly along the path I had taken and arrived at the fountain. Since I came running, I calmed my rough breath in front of the fountain.


    Turn your head to the right here.


    If you turn your head to the right and walk into the streets for about five minutes, youll find a three-pronged road. Then turn right again and look forward and go straight ahead. Thenes the dead end, and there is a wall surrounded by the vines. As I looked at the vines wrapped around the high wall, it filled my back with pressure.


    Its just beginning.


    I knocked on the door of the wall three times as I remembered reading in the novel.


    At regr intervals,knock, knock, knock.


    And three secondster,knock, knock, knock.


    And three secondster,knock, knock, knock.


    Ive knocked nine times in three turns. This was a hidden secret door of the merchants group. Nine knock-offs, as they were now, were a secret request to make a deal with the merchants group.


    If, my memory is not wrong. The front door will open.


    Fluttering ~


    About five seconds after looking at the wall with tension, the wall went into the sky, and space for people to enter appeared.


    opened.


    Really, its open.


    I took a deep breath, feeling a little overwhelmed, and then stepped inside. When I came in, the wall behind me closed again with a sound. As soon as I took a step forward, candles lit on both sides of the corridor at the same time. The brightened corridor was guiding me to only one ce, turning nowhere. I felt the warmth right away when I came inside. I tried to warm myself up by slowly stroking my cold stiff arms.


    Im d I didnt freeze to death.


    I heard my heart beating so loudly. I was a little pleased to think that I was ahead of the sess of my n. I moved forward, feeling the warm air with just a few candles.


    Staircase?


    Walking along the corridor with the bright light, I found a staircase that went down. There was no other way as if it were telling me toe down, so I went down the stairs. As soon as I went down there came a bright light and I frowned.


    A kid?


    The softest voice Ive ever heard called me. I flinched at the voice and raised my head up. In front of me was a boy about a seventeen or eighteen-year-old who looked down upon me. I stepped back, unwittingly seeing the surprise in his light green eyes. He backed away, as surprised as I did.


    Why the little kid? No, how could you know this ce more than that.


    Oh, Im here to see the head of the merchants group.


    Head of the merchants group?


    His forehead was crumpled as if he had heard something he shouldnt have heard. I guess the feeling of being surprised at me has already ended. The boy shook his head with a stiff face as if it was his original expression.


    Not anyone can easily meet. You cant meet.


    Im here to make a deal. Please, Let me meet!


    I dont know how you got in here, but get out of here.


    If not, he seemed to have hidden deliberately the words that he would kick me out. His ferocious eyes, however, seemed to drive me out at once. I told him clearly in a loud voice because I was angry for no reason.


    I want to make a deal! Let me meet the head of the merchants group!

 Chapter 6

    Have you ever heard such a loud voice in your life? For the first time in my life, I raised my voice. And in exchange for my thering, it punished me to catch my breath.


    Surprised by my voice, the boy was covering his ears with his own hands. Unlike the menacing appearance a little while ago, he looked like the fragile herbivore that appeared surprised.


    Perhaps thats why I didnt feel frightened, even though I saw somebody for the first time. Of course, I look more like a herbivore here.


    Please let me meet!


    When I raised my voice again, someone appeared behind me.All of a sudden, she emerged from behind, without a single sound of footsteps. She was wearing a thin shawl, a pipe cigarette in her mouth, and with an irritated face, she rolled her eyes around to find the main culprit of this uproar.


    I was wondering whos making so much ofmotion, so why cant I see anyone?


    Down!


    I dont know if she was deliberately pretending not to see me or if she didnt really see me, but because of my frustration, I raised my voice again.


    Her gaze turned to me, and she remained quiet for a long time. Slowly, she looked at me from head to toe. It was a look that evaluated who I was and what kind of person I was. And a momentter, with a bizarre expression, cigarette smoke came out of her mouth.


    Yes, a little kid wearing a ragged dress. So, what do you want to trade with me?


    Please look after me from this merchants group, Then Ill give you what you need!


    I dont have a hobby of doing charity work.


    Once more, the smoke came out of her mouth. The smoke spread over her, obscuring her face, making me unable to read her expression, and that worried me. So I quickly opened my bag and took out all the documents inside and showed them.


    I brought it because I heard the director saying that this document should not be in the hands of the head of the merchants group. Dont you need this document?


    If you need it, take care of me. Give me a ce to live and be the stage for the next step where I can twist this story. I looked at her with desperation, but I couldnt see her face well in the mysterious mist that was stilling out.


    She reached out her hand to me. If my condition had been normal, I would have decided after I had received a definite answer, but I had no intention of doing so now. I wiped the sweat from the tension in my hands and forced the papers into her hands.


    I waited nervously for her answer as I listened to the little sigh of the boy next to me. She took the papers, and, as she had observed me, she turned over the papers at a leisurely pace. When thest sheet was finally over, her mouth, which had been quietly shut, opened up.


    I dont know where you heard and stole this document from, but you came to see me just for a reason like this? I could hear a small sound of chuckling behind that breath-taking voice.


    This is something that even the children in the slums can do. No, rather, the slum kids will move their hands and feet quicker than you.


    What? Well, that cant be true. Im sure you need that document, so the main characters were making a fuss and brought it in secret?


    Why, why arent you happy to see the documents?She looked at the documents and showed that attitude, which made me confused. It was as if there was a sudden obstacle in front of me while I was running so hard and, It forced me to fall. I couldnt control my expression.


    What should I do?As I stood helplessly, biting my lips vigorously and shaking my pupil around, she said something to me.


    You have a peculiar hair color.


    ..


    Purple hair, realizing her meaning, I looked up at her with a contemted look. The eyes under the smoke seemed to me as though it wasughing at me. No, to be precise, it seemed tough at someones daughter.


    Your hair color is notmon here. I dont know if the neighboring empire would know since its this pale purple. Anyone who sees you would know that youre her daughter.


    Im.


    It felt like something was strangling me. It was hard to breathe properly, knowing that the ce where I fled to live was the same as other ces. And with that, anger rose again.


    What did I do wrong?


    What did my mom do wrong? This much, to this extent.


    You dont even know me very well!


    I could feel my fingernails poking into my fist. I dont know how to express this anger, I was just too sad. I had to clench my fist desperately because I thought the tears I had endured would explode in front of the first person I saw in my life. Pressing down the sadness that came up with the pain in the palm of my hand, I looked up at her with quivering eyes. Before I knew it, the smoke covered her face again like a veil.


    Because I- Im the daughter of a wicked woman? Is that why you want to kick me out?


    There was no return answer. Silence, in other words, is positive.


    I let you in and We cant afford to lose money in business. Im sure youvee for a deal, but from my point of view, its just losing business. Turn around and go back when Im saying nicely.


    [This isnt where you belong.]With those words, she tried to disappear quietly as the way she had first appeared.


    Then where is the ce that I belong to?


    But my words that followed caught her leaving footsteps.


    A nursery that ostracizes and abuses me, or next to an indifferent father who denies my existence, without even properly confirming whether I am his daughter? Or right next to my dead mother?


    ..


    Do you want me to die, too? No one feeling sorry, like when my mother died, saying it was nice andughing at me. Do you want me to die like that too? Why? Is it because Im the daughter of a wicked woman?


    There was no answer. Nevertheless, the mouth that burst once did not know how to stop, nor did I want to stop.


    But I dont want to die. I want to live.


    I just wanted someone to listen. Yet after I said I wanted to live, I couldnt have felt more dejected than this. Is it because I knew it couldnt happen? As soon as my words were over, a tiny voice suddenly rang out in the air in this tense silence.


    [Aa-Ah. Can you hear me, Mother? Theres a bit of a noisymotion urring.]


    The cheerful mans voice broke her silence.


    Whats going on?


    Strangely, the mans voice seemed to be heard from her. When I listened carefully, it really was the sound that came from the white mist surrounding her.


    [The nursery must have caught fire. Seems like it was quite a big deal, and the security guards are in trouble because the small mountain behind the nursery might catch fire. Looks like the castle gate guards are rushing in, too.]


    Fire in the nursery?


    As soon as the words were over, the white smoke that covered her face vanished like melting snow. Her expression was full of interest. And along with that, her intriguing gaze, and the boys astonished gaze, turned to me as well. It seemed like the gaze was asking me what had happened. I spoke calmly like it wasnt anything trifle.


    I set the fire and came out, to make sure they didnt know I escaped.


    you?


    I left my door locked to make it look like I couldnt break free and was killed. Theyll figure it out when I go back that Im the culprit and Ill be beaten to death.


    The boys expression next to me, filled with dismay at the calm words. As if he had heard something he couldnt hear, I sighed a little to that weak reaction.


    What do you mean, beaten to death? And in response, she asked me.


    Although it wasnt a very pleasant one, It was the first question that came back to me.


    Theyre going to drag me somewhere tomorrow because Im being cheeky. And If I go there and get some scolding, they said, Ill never be that cheeky again. But the director said theres a lot of people out there who hate my mother.


    You must be talking about the slums.


    Does my mom have anything to do with the slums?


    There was no answerback, I dont know if it was because she was afraid that a child would get hurt, or because she didnt want to say it like everyone else


    I was expecting a little more, and hope subsided, as I expected more.


    I really feel like crying.


    I mean, I feel my eyes are sore, but crying here wont solve the problem Youll just lose your energy. I pped myself on the cheek for no reason and looked up at her with a straight face.


    I came with my own feet, and Im walking out with my own feet too. Im not getting kicked out. I put aside my fear for a moment and looked up at her boldly and said,


    I came here just because I thought the director hated you, so you would help me.


    I put up with my sorrow and spoke.


    So I picked up the directors words and came here and, after all, you cant help me, can you?


    You want me to die, dont you?


    Everyone wants me to die.


    As if it were natural as if it were set.


    Her ring eyes were passionate. There were no tears, but her eyes looked like she was already crying, but she did not want to avoid the gaze, which was looking at her loosely.


    To be honest, I wanted her to catch me. When I get out of here, I have nowhere else to go. I might shiver and die in the cold before I even get beaten and die. I really dont want to die.


    Hmm.


    There was a sound of pondering for a moment, and I wondered whether my innermost thoughts had reached her. Her eyes were shining interestingly, and her mouth was smiling a little differently than before.


    Lets start by introducing ourselves first. My name is Chloe Benedito. Whats your name?


    Its Daphne.


    Yes, Daphne, what is it exactly that you want?


    I want to live.


    The voice of sincerity came out incessantly trembling. It was a trembling voice, but it contained a firm will, and the answer must have been in Chloes favor. Chloe smiled, her eyes curled like foxes.


    No matter how urgent it is, it is difficult to get into the main subject as soon as we meet. Theres a procedure for meeting people.


    Chloe tapped her cheek with a rxed expression. After a short thought, she smiled.


    Ive already heard the major point, but Im still a person of courtesy. So Id like to receive a flower from you as a greeting to me.


    Flower?


    What are you talking about all of a sudden?


    So youre saying that the documents werent enough, right?


    When I opened my eyes wide because I didnt understand, she spoke in such a way that I was right.


    Its enough, but Im saying Im not satisfied. Merchants are greedy people.


    Does that mean I should get one more?


    Or is she turning around and saying no?


    There are no flowers blooming in this weather. She nodded as if it were natural.


    If there isnt, you must go and get it. Do you think Im going to take that easy-to-get stuff as a greeting?

 Chapter 7

    Ah, this was clearly a test, a test to see my resolution.


    ..


    Come to think of it, when you go outside the castle gate, you can see flowers blooming sometimes in this weather, its just Its too dangerous for you to leave the gate alone at night.


    Chloe had a cigarette in her mouth again, and then the white smoke came out of it again, and she said,There could be wild animals roaming around, and monsters who have lost their night-time path can also walk around.


    She lowered her voice as if to frighten me.More than anything else, you have to wander alone on the dark, rough road to find the flowers.


    The smoke covered Chloes expression just like a while ago. I didnt see what kind of expression was in her face, but I knew what words would follow. I dont know why she suddenly changed her mind, but Chloe was trying to give me a chance.


    You might die trying to find a flower. Would you still bring me some flowers? Why not turn it to red cotton flowers?


    If you dont mind the flowers that are bent, then as many as you want.


    And there was no reason to reject the offer. So with my resolute answer, the swirling white mist reflected the light around the corner of her mouth. There was a very satisfying smile at the corners of her mouth.


    Chloe seemed satisfied as though what I said was the right answer, but not the boy next to me.


    Mother! What are you talking about? Where are you going to send her in the middle of the night?


    The pale-faced boys desperate attempt seemed unfamiliar to me. Perhaps because it was the first time I saw someone who didnt despise me and was really worried about me. I looked up at him unknowingly. When he noticed my eyes, it embarrassed him for a moment, and he cleared his throat and began to dissuade Chloe again.


    Please put a different condition. This kid looks terrible If something goes wrong, she might get hurt. These days, the forest is booming


    Its Daphnes choice, why are you stubborn?


    Chloes words suddenly shut the boys mouth and, feeling it was unfair, he quickly distorted his expression and looked down at me. I nodded because it seemed like he was asking me if I would really do it. Then in dismay, he raised his voice.


    She just looks like shes barely five or six years old!


    Im seven years old, and I came this far because I ran so well.


    At my resolute answer, he looked at Chloe, not me, with a look of being fed up. As if it didnt concern her, she looked at him and asked,Whats the problem?


    Now that Daphne set the fire, it will be easier than you think to go out of the castle gate, and there will be no problem since she has a strong will.


    Chloe stroked the boys head once and looked at me.


    But I dont really like to wait, so youd better hurry up ande back. Bring it before dawn.


    After giving the conditions clearly, Chloe disappeared from that spot with the smoke. It was a strange sight to see for the first time, but now was not the time to watch it. Recalling that there was not much time given, I tried to head to the castle gate immediately.


    When given the opportunity, you have to take action quickly!


    ..


    It was good to be ready to go out eagerly, but I quickly rxed my posture and slowly looked up at the boy.


    I do not know where the castle gate is.


    ..


    Cant you just guide me there?


    ..


    The boy had been silent for a long time and soon sighed and said, I think you should put on your shoes first, so please wait a moment. Ill take you to the gate.


    ***


    The green-haired boy, Lennox, was quite kind to me, unlike the people Ive met before.


    You said Daphne, right? My name is Lennox Benedito.


    Lennox kept me waiting, the one who was trying to run out right away and came with a small pair of shoes. Perhaps it was the smallest pair of shoes he had, but it was a little bigger for me.


    Looking at it, Lennox had a pitiful expression. The light-green eyes, which harbor not contempt but concern for me, were so unfamiliar.


    Hes a strange man.


    I dont know if he was originally a sympathetic person, but this was the first time that I received the kindness given to a child and not the daughter of a wicked woman, so my fingertips were a little ticklish.


    Lennox watched me put on my shoes withplicated eyes and then held out something again.


    Its cold outside. Im sure youll catch a cold if you go around like that. He gave me a little robe, but I guess he didnt like it.


    Its a shame that this is the only thing I have for now. Just bear with it this time.


    I nodded, kindly, without saying a word at the promise of the next.


    It takes a while to get to the castle gate, so its better to walk holding hands, right?


    His hands were shaking like me a while ago, but I didnt want to refuse. Lennox carefully grasped my hand, and slowly apanied me to the castle gate, matching with my pace.


    Its going to be really dangerous outside the castle gate, so if youre scared and want to give up, Its okay to quit ande back.


    Then you cant get flowers.


    But its really dangerous out there. More than you think.


    There was only one answer I could give to that remark.


    Theres never been a ce in my life that hasnt been dangerous to me. Since the road I walked on was this thorny one, so just because the road ahead is a little dangerous doesnt make any difference.


    It was nice of him to treat me warmly.


    So you dont have to pretend to be so worried.


    But, you dont know if this is an act or not. Recalling Ulinee, I stopped talking for no reason and deliberately lowered my head to turn away from Lennox. Since then, there has been no word between us.


    ***


    Like the voice heard in the air, there was really no security guard in front of the castle gate.


    I cant believe youre doing this at one fire. What are you going to do if you get into trouble in the capital?


    The guards arent doing the job properly.


    Lennox was astounded and clicked his tongue as if he had the same thought as me. I felt a sense of empathy, so I sluggishly moved my hand once.


    You must return carefully.


    We crossed the castle gate. The forest was so dark, except for the fire of themp that lit the front of the gate.


    If a distant nursery was eaten by fire, the forest seemed to be eaten by darkness. When I shivered in the darkness for no reason at all, I felt Lennox staring down at me with a worried expression.


    you know, its better to quit here


    No. I dont want to. Whether it was a genuine concern or a pretense of concern, I could not give up here. I had no ce to give up and back off.


    Lennoxs face was frowned upon, but he didnt stop me anymore.


    If you walk along the path you see Itll be alright.


    I nodded at the words that seemed to indicate a path hidden in the darkness. I slowly walked towards the forest, leaving the gaze of Lennox behind me. The darkness that I cant even see right in front of me seems to be opening my mouth like its going to eat me, so my steps slowly started to slow down.


    Its dark


    Maybe it was because of the cold air that I couldnt hear a single bug cry. Although I could see the moonlight dimly visible.


    In the quiet silence of the forest, I could hear only the tter of my footsteps and the sound of the bushes passing by. The stillness that seemed that I was the only one left alone in the world gave me a creep.


    A little It might be scary.


    At times like this, you need to wake up and find the flowers quickly. Fortunately, the roads were well arranged, and the moonlight was softly shining, so there was no difficulty in finding the way.


    Hoping for a bright red color to shine in the dark, I let out a white breath and moved my head around.


    Far from flowers


    Im d the grass is growing.


    As I was walking down a clean road, trying to forget the cold by wrapping myself in a robe, I soon heard a strange sound from one side.


    ..


    It was a quiet forest, with only the sound of my movement. Thats why I was able to hear the small sound without missing it, like I was listening directly to the ce.


    Rrrrrr-


    T/n: Growling/ Roaring.


    The sound of the crying creatures, and the thumping and sniffing sound. Swallowing my saliva, I slowly turned my head toward it. From where my gaze was directed, the sound began to get closer and closer.


    The moment the face of arge animal is revealed through the dry branches of the trees, I will definitely die here.


    As soon as I realized the fact, I began to run recklessly without hesitation through the bushes, not the path that was pierced. I could hear the animal weeping behind me, but I had no choice but to shiver without even thinking about looking back.


    I dont know how far I can get with this leg. I ran desperately because I couldnt stop.


    Did I run for a long time?


    The rough breath filled my throat, and I suffocated, and my trembling legs were screaming at limits. The moment I thought that, my injured foot fromst time couldnt hold out and I slipped and fell.


    When I turned around after falling over to the ground with a bang, fortunately, I didnt see it chasing me. As I gathered my thoughts and looked around, I realized this was a dark and deste ce that I had no idea of where it was.


    I tried to give strength to my throbbing leg to get up, but I couldnt get any strength. Even the moonlight that illuminated the road disappeared.


    When I saw this ce, which is the darkness itself, I really understood the situation I was in.


    It was only darkness. There was no moonlight leaking into the forest covered with bushes and dense trees. I felt like I was really abandoned in the world. Above all, I hated this darkness without a light.


    [I hate this dark color. Its the color that someone who hates me has.]


    I hate it so much.


    The darkness that hovered beside me was like it rejoicing the cold energy, and it seemed like it would torn me to shreds right now.


    My head was saying, I should move my feet and get away from here quickly. However, my feet seemed to have no intention of following my head since it did not move at all, and were still sluggish.


    Move, move!


    You ran out because you wanted to live. Its toote to turn everything back.


    Ah, I dont think I can take it anymore. Tears slowly gathered around my eyes, and the drops of tears that had dripped seemed to fall to the ground soon.


    Only then my hopes were hidden, by the cold wind that pierce the flesh, this silence, and this situation where I lost my path.


    Even this darkness, which suppressed me, touched my skin straight.


    Im scared


    I thought this darkness would eventually swallow me, and somehow it wouldplete my death and create a happy story. In the end, I was so scared that my presence would be rejected for a happy ending.


    In this terrible darkness, if there was no pain in my throbbing foot, I would have thought I was already dead. My head bowed by itself, and hope dropped down.


    The feeling of falling down and down, with no ce to sit in this darkness.


    When the word give up to erase hope is about to appear.


    Beyond the dim view, I could see something moving.

 Chapter 8

    Its a purple light moving around in this dark ce without light. That purple light was desperately pping its wing in front of me as though it wanted to save me from sinking down.


    a purple butterfly?


    Do butterflies fly around in this winter?


    Butterflies in this cold weather where not even a single flower can bloom? It suddenly seemed to drift away from reality.


    Then, slowly, my hazy mind began toe back to reality. As if waiting for me, the purple butterfly was hovering around me. As soon as the butterfly saw me returning to my senses, it began to fly somewhere, as if to guide me through the road.


    While I was just staring at it, without moving, the butterfly came back and hovered around me again. Seeing it urging me, I gave strength to my feet again and slowly rose up.


    .


    The butterfly slowly guided me by moving its wings as if it was caring for my injured body.


    Did Alice in Wondend, who followed the rabbit, feel this way?


    An unknown foreboding feeling of something happening started to fill me.


    The color is friendly.


    Is it a bit darker than my jagged purple hair?


    Its like my moms hair color.


    Mom, my mom who died miserably at the spire.


    Did she go to a good ce?


    When I stopped moving at the sudden thought, the butterfly flew toward me and urged me again.


    I get it, Ill follow you.


    Im sure she went to a good ce.


    Lets hope for that.


    ***


    Suddenly, the butterfly stopped at a ce.


    Its the moon.


    The butterflys little wings pulled me out of the dark forest. Unlike the first time I saw, a bright moonlight was shining over me. That light seemed to save me from being surrounded by the darkness.


    The overwhelming emotion forced me to look up at the moon for a while.


    Its bright.


    A road that can reap this darkness. Now instead of being caught in the dark, I had a hopeful feeling that I could find a flower.


    I lowered my head to look for flowers underneath the bright moonlight.


    I looked down slightly, and like a funny thing-


    I found it.


    It was on a slightly higher wall, but it was there. The reddish red flowers stood in full bloom by oveing the cold wind of theing winter.


    Although it was located at the height of about the second floor of the building, it seemed to be entirely possible to reach if I climbed up carefully.


    Okay, lets do it!


    Burned with unusual motivation, I began to climb up slowly, stepping on the rocks that protruded from the bottom of the flowery wall. Every time I stepped on it, the stone dust fell from the rocks, and my heart began to pound.


    Phew.


    It was a bit risky, but fortunately, it seemed to hold my weight.


    Ill have to be careful when Im going down.


    I thought I could somehow climb up, but I was worried about going down. I took a deep breath and took another step again. As I stepped on it one by one, I began to see a faint red light in my sight.


    As I grabbed the stone sticking out in front of my eyes and moved my feet slightly to the side, a red flower appeared in front of me in full bloom.


    .


    How should I express this overwhelming and fluctuating emotion?


    The joy of seeding in the first step of writing my own story was beyond words.


    Mom, I did it, I found the flowers.


    I was able to make the impossible possible.


    I picked up the flower in front of my eyes with joy, and finally, I could smile, looking at the red petals that were held in my hands.


    Now, if I only go back


    Lets step slowly. I stepped carefully to my side, hoping that there would be no unforeseen situation.


    However, maybe because of the tension being relieved, my injured foot wasnt able to hold the center and bent to the one side.


    And at that moment, I lost my bnce. Without even getting the time to feel embarrassed, I began to fall down.


    Kyaaaaaaaa!


    The screams were short, and the speed of falling was fast.


    The wounds, the already exhausted strength, and the body full of fatigue, of course, could not save me from falling. I fell to the ground with a scream.


    Argh!


    If Im fortunate, Im allowed to be grateful right?


    I did not fall head-on, but I fell on the leg, so I had no reason to lose consciousness.


    Ack


    But that didnt mean it was not painful. Unable to ovee the pain, my eyes filled with tears.


    Myfeet,whichmighthavebeensprainedwhenithittheground while falling, felt so painful that it couldnt be exined in words.


    When I touched my feet, which was wounded, by my hand, it was burning hot.


    Ah, Aah.


    I cant make a sound. By any chance, the wild animal mighte after me after hearing the sound. I raised my trembling arm and covered my mouth to prevent the sound froming out. Even if it is not a wild animal, there could be monsters or a dangerous situation that I might not be aware of.


    But it hurts so much, it hurts, it hurts, it hurts


    Why did I make such a mistake after Ive seeded in it? Why should I be in this situation? Why should I be in pain?


    Tears welled up from the moment of injustice and I covered my face with my hands. Otherwise, I thought Id probably want to scream, and I thought Id not be able to hold it in and cry bitterly.


    The sorrow that had been contained inside my heart thus far exploded in the terrible pain.


    Why does dad pretend not to know me?


    Why did you abandon me?


    Why didnt my mom want to take care of me?


    Why did you leave me behind first?


    Why isnt anybody looking at me?


    At least one of them could have saved me.


    Mom, I miss you.


    Even though no one cared about me, at least my mom looked after me.


    Why did you have to leave me behind like that?


    Why should we be sacrificed to this story, Mom?


    Slowly, a terrible pain climbed up to my body from my feet. The pain and loneliness as if the world seem to have abandoned me. And with the frustrating resentment, I had no choice but to endure crying desperately. Seeing this situation, the thought of passing this responsibility to someone was about toe out of my mouth.


    At that moment.


    I remembered the flowers that I had forgotten for a while in pain.


    Where are the flowers?


    Suddenly, I turned my head around. The flowers wereid neatly beside me. When I saw the flowers that were in good condition, unlike me, I could breathe a little bit of clogged breath.


    Cryingits not toote to do it after I seed .


    I dont know how much time has passed, but I could see a bluish light permeating the ck sky.


    I took a deep breath and slowly moved my head. At least, I have to check to see how serious it is.


    I closed my eyes tightly to the pain that felt strange, turned my head, and opened my eyes wide.


    I dont know whether it was broken or seriously injured, but a terrible pain came up from the knee. Leaving behind the feeling that these feet were not my feet, I gave strength to my feet, reminding myself that I had no choice but to move.


    Ah.


    It hurts so much. Even with a little bit of strain on my feet, I felt a terrible pain and couldnt move at all.


    I have to force myself to drag it and go anyway.


    I just found the flowers, but its more unfair to give up in this state than being injured!


    The rough breathing out of my mouth continued to create a white breath.


    I could not wait for someone toe to help me here.


    Itste after dawn


    Time was flowing without giving me a moment to hesitate.


    But, I will seed and not fail.


    I must survive, by all means


    I was full of will.


    However, there was a problem.


    I had no idea where this ce was. Ive never been out of the gate before, and I even lost my way because the animals chased me


    I think the butterfly I saw a little while ago is gone


    How am I supposed to find the way?


    I felt tremendous pain all over my body, especially on my wounded right leg, and even though my temperature dropped, a cold sweat covered my back.


    I slowly turned my head and tried to figure out this ce. And then, as if waiting for me, the purple butterfly appeared again.


    Are you going to take me back again?


    There was no answer because it wasnt a person, but the butterfly took action instead of words. Just like when it guided me a while ago, It took the lead by pping its wings.


    As if I was possessed by something, I forced myself to pull my immobile leg and began to follow the butterfly.


    Passing under a dark tree that covers the bright moonlight, and then through the bushes. Even if the road was long, I decided to believe this butterfly that led me to flowers.


    But thats another story when your body is at its limit.


    It hurts


    The pain on my legs was hard to bear. My body began to whine as if it had really reached its limit. The front gradually blurred, and the legs were losing strength.


    Butterfly


    In this situation where I am about to lose consciousness, the only thing I could believe in was the butterfly in front of me.


    The purple butterflys fluttering wings gradually started to fade.


    Is my vision blurring or is the butterfly fading away?


    However, when I extended my hand forward, thinking that I shouldnt miss it, my body which had endured for a while, failed to bnce and began to fall forward.


    Is itthe end?


    Was it not the butterfly disappearing, but my consciousness blurring?


    The moment of falling forward came slowly, very slowly, like death.


    When I sensed the pain and closed my eyes just before I hit the floor, someone appeared like a miracle and held my body.


    Whoo thank God.


    Ah, thats a familiar voice.


    Lennox?


    I slowly opened my closed eyes because of the warmth that I felt from the touch.


    Before I knew it, I was out of the dark forest and under the bright moon. Lennox, who suddenly appeared, managed to hold me before I fell.


    I could see the sweat on his forehead as if he was running around hard. His sound of breathing was rough, although not as bad as mine.


    You


    Lennox opened his mouth to speak, but then he stiffened his face with surprise. His gaze descended from my head, and when it reached the tip of my toes, his forehead crumpledvisibly.


    Oh, my God, crazy!


    And an angry voice.


    Why are you angry?


    I dont know why, but even if youre angry, will you do me a favor?


    Again, I forcibly held back my slowly closing eyes and raised my hands holding the flowers.

 Chapter 9

    I have to deliver the flowers.


    You, even in this situation!


    I shouldnt do this, butplease help me. I cant walk anymore


    The harsh breathing didnt let my words toe out properly, but Lennox seemed to understand it.


    He frowned angrily, then stared at me with a look of concern.


    Help, Ill help you, so dont lose your consciousness No, rather be asleep, because if you are asleep, it wont hurt


    His gaze was directed not toward my face but towards my feet. Lennox hugged me, held me firmly in his arms, and began to move quickly with an effort.


    Its the first time someone held me tight like this, apart from my mom.


    I know hes the first stranger I met today, but wont his body get tired?


    Strangely, his arms were veryfortable. Feeling my tension being relieved, I slowly began to close my eyes again to forget the pain. Through my closed eyes, I could see the purple butterfly slowly disappearing.


    Thank you.


    Good-bye, Butterfly.


    And then Ipletely lost my consciousness.


    ***


    My body was burning. It was hot, like a fireball, as if I were having a cold or flu. Besides, my breath was rough, and the cough continued to erupt.


    Even breathing is painful and, I dont even know how many times Ive uttered nonsense in my head because of the pain that keepsing from the wound.


    It was only after a few days of turmoil with a fever that I felt the hazy mist had already been removed from my head. I opened my eyes holding on to the consciousness that barely came back.


    Aa- Aah.


    A rough voice came out harshly with a sore throat. As I called a few more times, a ss of water suddenly appeared next to me. Without hesitation, I took the ss and drank the water. The warm water ran down my throat, and finally, I was able to wake up a bit. When I looked around, I saw a ce that I had never seen before.


    Then a smallugh came out of the side. As I turned my head back towards the sound, there was a boy who looked a few years younger than Lennox.


    Under the light pink hair, the red eyes in the round sses had a feeling of favor. The boys eyes curved when my eyes met his.


    Red eyes.


    It is the same color as Chloe. Now that I see it, I think they look quite simr


    Are you feeling better now?


    Who are you?


    Ah, shall we introduce ourselves first?


    I couldnt rx my guard and asked in a harsh voice, but the boy only grinned. The boy pointed his finger at him and slowly began to introduce himself as if he were talking to a child.


    My name is Ricarda Benedito, the person whos been taking care of you all this time.


    Are you a doctor?


    Not a doctor, but someone who can imitate it?


    Whats that?


    If youre a doctor, youre a doctor.


    When my eyes filled with disbelief, Ricarda began to panic and feel embarrassed.


    I, Im a wizard! Usually, doctors are the job chosen by healing wizards, but I do that because healing is not my main major.


    Wizard


    Yes, yes.


    As Ricardas exnation continued, I slowly lowered my head and saw a bandage wrapped around my arms.


    Wondering, I pulled down my nket and found my injured right foot firmly fixed from the knee to the bottom of it.


    It looked like a cast I had seen in my previous life, so I looked at it for a long time, and soon I heard a sigh of relief from the side.


    Im d you are better after several days of sickness due to high fever. I dont think the temperature is going to go up any further now


    What happened to my leg?


    Huh?


    Ricarda paused at my words and tried to change the subject with an awkward smile. I asked again, seeing his apparent reaction.


    Cant I use my legs anymore?


    What do you mean! Thats not true!


    What happened then? Has it been maimed?


    When there was a sound of pain in my voice, Ricarda asked me with a solemn expression.


    If your legs were maimed what would you think?


    I should think it was a cheap pricepared to my life.


    Unfortunately.


    At the added words, Ricarda looked at me, speechless. With his shocked expression, I tilted my head thinking Id done something wrong.


    Ricarda, agape with astonishment, stood up from his seat.


    No! Absolutely not!


    ?


    Ricardas red eyes were flushed, and he said with a stiff expression.


    Ill cure you somehow! Even though its so serious that you cant even talk about it! Ill make you all better!


    Ricarda tried to change the subject about my condition until the end. Perhaps the injury was more severe than I thought.


    My legs could really be maimed. No, but seeing that Ivee this far


    Like I said before if Ipare the price of my leg for my life, isnt it cheap to use my legs at a small price?


    As if he didnt see me on deep thought, Ricarda continuously told me that I had been sick for thest three days.


    The wound might cause scars, but I still couldnt trust his words about him taking responsibility for it and healing it.


    After speaking for a long time without feeling my gaze at him, he finished what he had to say and sat down again in the chair.


    Then he held my hand firmly and said,Yes, yes. From now on, Im your brother, so Ill fix it for you! So, just trust me.


    What are you talking about?


    I dont have a brother.


    I dont have a brother like you.


    Unconsciously sharp words came out. In my response, Ricarda hesitated and then stealthily got up from his seat.


    I should have brought my mother first, but I forgot. Can you wait for a minute?


    yes.


    Seeing that I have been treated safely here, it seems that Lennox brought me well.


    I guess he delivered the flowers well for me.


    I didnt give it to her directly, but since it was a condition to get the flowers, I wont be med for it right?


    I hope its alright


    Ricarda left the room after telling me to wait a little longer. After he left, looking at the quiet room, I heaved a sigh that I had endured. I was scared that I would die there, but fortunately, I came back alive with help.


    Chloe, the head of the merchants group, had a strong personality than I expected, but still, I had a good feeling about it.


    A hunch that things will work out.


    ***


    [Knock, Knock]


    A momentter, the door opened with a knock and a rattling sound.


    You look like youre in good condition. Three days ago, you were in a condition that I couldnt even afford to see.


    Tsk. The tiny sound of tongue clicking seem to contain annoyance, but when Lennoxs gaze turned to Chloe, she approached me, without knowing it.


    I told you to bring the flowers, not toe in that condition. Thanks to someone, I felt embarrassed after a long time.


    embarrassed?


    No matter how much I am, wouldnt it be strange, not to be surprised when a child is going to die?


    Mother, why do you make your words so mean?


    Lennox beside her spoke briefly, and Chloe kept her mouth shut.


    Isnt she a person who doesnt care about that?


    Im sure she was a very cold-blooded, scary, revenge-burning woman in the novel.


    When I looked up at her as if I didnt understand her, my eyes met hers. Chloes red-eye had me in it. She didnt seem to have the slightest intention of avoiding eye contact.


    Why do I feel that the gaze directed towards me is not unpleasant at all, should I be d?


    I must apologize to you first.


    Apology?


    I tilted my head at the sudden apology.


    She sighed in relief and then sat next to me.


    To be honest, I thought youd give up after you left the gate by saying you were scared. The forest was dark and you werent even in good shape.


    ..


    But then you wandered around the forest and found these flowers.


    Lennox came close with a ss jar.


    A ss jar, which looked like a water bottle, contained flowers and liquid hanging from it.


    Its Stacia, the name of the flower you found. A fairly rare flower that is used as a medicinal herb for relieving pain.


    T/N:lmao, I searched this flower name because I wanted to know but didnt find it. Pretty sure it doesnt exist ;(


    Chloe frowned and sighed again.


    It grows up in a crevice and is hard to cultivate because of weather effects. Thats what you found.


    Is it expensive? Enough to be worth a present for you?


    Yeah, that was enough, 100 gold would be ridiculous.


    A voice strangely mixed withughter. Hearing that voice, hope, which had sunk so deep, began to rise gradually.


    You made impossible possible. You won.


    A smile that was gently formed around her mouth and a pleasant look.


    I nodded my head with a smile on my lips. Chloes answer, informing me that I passed the difficult exam gave me unspeakable joy.


    Yes. Ive received the papers and flowers, so apart from the apologies, Ill have to hear exactly what the deal you want is, right?


    I dont want much; Just give me the position as a sessor of this merchants group.


    Chloe paused at my words and blinked her eyes. Obviously, she did not think that I would ask that.


    Isnt there a lot of seats for the sessor position?


    You can just give me a qualification. I dont have to be a real sessor.


    Even if its not as the merchants group head, as a sessor, wouldnt it be the right position to change this story?


    First of all, no matter when the male protagonist appears, itll be fine if I dont give that spot to him.


    Everyone was quiet, knowing that there was no yfulness in my eyes.


    Chloe put her hand on my head and stared down at me and asked,Why are you doing this? If its just to make a living, it would be easier to live with the support of the merchants group.


    Because I want to twist the story.


    Story?


    In the unexpected word that came out of nowhere, Chloe nced a doubtful look. I continued to speak clearly without avoiding her eyes.


    The wicked woman is dead, and now everyone hopes for her daughter to die. Thats the set story.


    I endured the sorrow that wasing up and continued with my words.


    I dont want to go along with that story stupidly. I want to live.


    Im going to change the ending of the story. To make me happy, not them.


    I want to make my own story, live longer and happier than them. Even by twisting the set story.


    It would be hard for them to understand, but I only brought the genuine truth as much as possible for her to back me up.


    Its okay to be this mean.

 Chapter 10

    After I said everything I wanted to say, I felt a little relieved. But soon, I regretted saying it.


    Should I have told you like a child?


    You might think that its disgusting that a child says something precociously like a grown-up


    As Ive been living with peoples opinions, I was concerned about my every action. I clenched the nket with my little fist and waited for words toe at me. Im used to the detest for being gross so, I can ept anything.


    If I stay here anyway, I wont be able to hide my true self. Still, I couldnt help being nervous, so my back became tense and cold sweat spilled out of my hands. At that time, Chloe suddenly began to talk about herself.


    I grew up in the same nursery as you.


    I raised up my head quickly.


    Obviously, this part of the novel


    So, before I even reached adulthood, I was sold to the backworld because of the staffs work and had to suffer a lot. It was awful.


    There was a bitter smile on Chloes mouth.


    Not only me, but my friends were also sold together. Some of the children are already dead, and there might be others living a miserable life that is worse off than dying.


    Maybe that could have been my future.


    And, when I found out, all that happened because of a friend I met at the nursery, and hes a director there currently. I decided to take revenge.


    I gulped and made eye contact with Chloe. Her eyes were full of anger.


    So, I dont intend to leave him, and everyone involved alone. They made my life that way, and they dare sleepfortably?


    There was a deep sneer around her mouth.


    Thats never going to happen.


    I gulped again at Chloes resolute answer.


    The documents you brought were proofs of the deal that he sold the children. Did you even know that?


    No.


    At my voice, Chloe chuckled.


    Yes. If you had known, you wouldnt have passed it so easily.


    So, with those documents, can you drag down the nursery director?


    At my question, Chloe shook her head with an irritated expression.


    Well, its obvious that if you reveal it now, youll be quietly silenced by the backers that are watching them.


    Chloe picked up the pipe as if to smoke, then paused for a moment, then put the pipe back into her sleeve again.


    Its not just documents. Me too, this merchants group too, is going to be a mess. There will be an appropriate time to reveal it, so Ill bear it in and wait.


    After that remark, I heard the sound of grinding teeth, unable to hold back the anger.


    Im not living for revenge. I just want to give them the punishment that they deserve.


    .


    Its all right if it takes a long time, to give them a fair punishment. So, to prepare for that time, Im collecting data and gathering strength.


    Chloe smiled and advised me.


    For you, its Duke of Heronis, and for me, its the nursery. I think youre kind of like me


    Chloe spoke with a bright smile, which did not correspond with her words and this atmosphere.


    If you want to be under me, youll have to know the value of the goods and learn how to trade.


    Chloe talked about her past to me and chose me as her sessor. Originally, it was a word to be said to the male protagonist of the second part of the original novel, but it came back to me.


    In other words, that means!


    Are you permitting me to stay here? Bing a sessor too?


    If a woman leads the merchants group, there are more difficulties than you expect. Ignorance and criticism will never cease.


    Chloe lowered her voice as if to frighten me.


    If youre good at your work, theyll curse you because youre tough, and if youre bad, youll get cursed because youre a woman. It can be harder than Ive ever done. Would you do it anyway?


    Of course.


    She smiled at my answer.


    All right. From now on, youre the sessor to the Benedito merchants group, and in the future, youll be Daphne Benedito. Baby


    Baby


    Although she was surprised by an unfamiliar title, Chloe didnt seem to have any intention of changing the title.


    Fortunately, the corners of my mouth were raised, as if I liked it.


    At first, I was just going to sponsor you for your dignified appearance, but I definitely changed my mind a little while ago.


    really?


    I cant just sponsor you after I have received this amount of paperwork. It is a terrible thing to do.


    Chloe burst outughing.


    I really liked your spirit, spite, and your will. At this rate, my daughter is well qualified to be the sessor.


    The words that followed were even more magnificent than I expected.


    can I be your daughter? Can I do that?


    Chloe answered with a serious voice to the anxious words.


    Its enough.


    Itworked. The hard work paid off.


    When Chloes mouth dropped the words of perfect permission, the tension flowing through my body fell, and my body began to slump.


    I cant believe you let me in. I never imagined it but this is for the better.


    I stretched out my rxed shoulders and breathed a sigh of relief, but as soon as I finished, Lennox asked me as if he had waited for it to be done.


    How do you feel?


    Its okay. I dont think I got hurt as bad as I thought


    After my position was guaranteed, I didnt have to be nervous like thest time. I nodded and answered kindly, and Chloe, who listened to it,ughed at the words.


    You dont know what a serious situation you were in. Youve been sick for three whole days. I rushed the treatment and even fed you medicines, but the fever didnt even go down. The most serious of them are your legs.


    Chloes gaze briefly turned to the legs and then to my head.


    Yes, legs can be fixed, but


    And, with a moments silence, it seems that something has happened to my head.


    Come to think of it, maybe Lennox was surprised to see my head in the woods?


    I touched my head on Chloesplicated gaze. But I couldnt find anything unusual.


    I guess the treatment went well, so it was to the extent that it doesnt hurt anymore?


    Then, whats the problem?


    When I tilted my head, Chloe sighed. Then she snapped her finger and flicked it lightly.


    Daphne, would you look in the mirror?


    Perhaps it was prepared in advance, Lennox took out a hand mirror about the size of my face and ced it in front of me.


    Ah.


    I could see a familiar face in the mirror. A rounded eye with a slightly raised tip and a golden pupil reflected in it. The band on the cheek was ufortable, but it didnt look shabby. But there was something that changed


    My hair is white.


    Usually there is a saying that your hair turns white when you suffer a big shock or pain


    At my words, Ricarda spoke in a hesitant voice. I touched my white hair and nodded.


    Ricarda was gloomy, saying that he could not do anything about my hair. Even if he was gloomy, nothing would change. The result of all of that journey was my hair dyed white, not purple.


    I think my eyshes are white, too, as if they were the original color. Ive lost the color that my mom gave me.


    Purple was the only thing my mom gave me.


    I felt a little somber, and suddenly my surroundings became quiet.


    What is it are they looking at me?


    Chloes face was crumpled, and Lennox showed no sign on the outside, but he seemed to be little angry with his fist clenched and Ricarda looked guilty, saying he was sorry that he couldnt fix my hair color.


    Its all right because Im not dead. My legs, my hair, I got it cheap for my life, right?


    I tried to calcte it in my own way, but it seemed like the atmosphere was sinking further. I felt like the atmosphere was sinking because of me, so I changed my words to light the atmosphere.


    I guess my mom wanted to give me a new life. She took purple and gave white to me as a gift.


    I said, pointing to Chloes head.


    Its the same white color. It suits me well as purple, right?


    Chloes hair was the same color as mine, so it was a word I could say.


    Huh


    I brought it up because I thought the atmosphere would get better, but its just getting worse.


    yes, baby. I dont think anyone can doubt youre my daughter.


    Chloe gently smoothed my hair.


    I felt a little good, because she seemed to have some affection for me, though it may not be the case.


    So what am I supposed to do now? What should I do? I can do anything right away if you let me do it!


    I was still receiving her touch and brought it up because I thought it was not the right time, but the atmosphere that had gradually softened became tense again.


    I need to prove my worth as soon as possible and secure my ce.


    Chloe frowned at my words and sighed. And she said firmly,


    Its good to have a mature mind and quick eye than your peers, but I dont think its necessary for a child to be mature as an adult already.


    Chloes voice was filled with worry.


    What you need to do now is just rx and do nothing until your body recovers.


    But


    Im still full of potential. That means there are no problems even if you learn slowly.


    Chloe smiled bitterly and slowly lifted her hand from me.


    You might think Im cruel, and you might think Im making fun of you by suddenly thinking of you as my daughter after giving you such a harsh test.


    It was a self-deprecating voice.


    So I understand that youre in a hurry like you have to do something.


    I dont think youre making fun of me.


    It was difficult and it was a cruel condition for a small child, but now it doesnt matter, since I did it.


    Even if, its because of guilt that Chloe made me her sessor, its okay because it has produced more satisfying results.


    With my stern eyes, a smile rose around Chloes mouth. The look in her eyes conveyed sorry, and the smile conveyed relief. Ive always read peoples negative emotions, so Chloes feelings toward me were rather embarrassing.


    I dont want to take you only as my formal daughter. The beginning was rather unique than other mothers and daughters, but Im sure we can make a good rtionship.


    The words were hopeful. I just blinked and nodded as if I understood.


    Were going out now, so dont worry and get some rest. Its going to be night soon, so youll be tired.


    Chloe pulled up the nket and covered me warmly.


    Its never toote to do everything gradually once youve recovered.


    okay.


    The babys going to be hungry, so get her something to eat. Let her rest for now.


    Chloe said to Lennox with a satisfied smile.


    Yes.


    Then see you tomorrow, my little sister.


    With Ricardas humble greeting, three people left the room together.


    I looked at the quiet room and everything around me.


    The neat and soft pajamas, the cozy room instead of a warehouse, and the warm and thick nket that prevent the cold were all betterpared to the nursery.


    I exhaled and looked down at my hand. And soon, I wrapped my face with those hands.


    The opportunity that Chloe gave me, Lennoxs little kindness, the purple butterflys guide, and Ricardas treatment saved me.


    The day I had to die has already passed.


    I couldnt stand the overwhelming feeling, and in the end, I burst into tears with a sound.


    Im alive.


    I came back alive.


    And I will be able to live in the future.


    I couldnt hold back my tears from the rising emotion.

 Chapter 10.1

    Freyr Heronis, she was an ordinary aristocrat, no, an ideal woman who had never lived a life of misery. Beautiful appearance, birth that no one envy, and even the unstinting love of the family. Freyr was a woman with a lot of things, and a woman who did not know what shecked.


    It was a marriage of political convenience, but she had a kind husband, the people who treat her kindly in the mansion, and even the socialites who treat her ordingly. Thats why Freyr, as the Duchess of Heronis, did her best in her position so that she would not be a troublemaker to others.


    Her kind husband was always kind to her and was a faithful person who never abandoned his duties. So Freyr started to have a feeling of love towards him and believed that they would stay happier as a couple.


    Hello, Im Eunice. Ive decided to work at Duke mansion starting from today. Please take good care of me!


    Until a woman who called herself Eunice appeared.


    Since she appeared, her surroundings have be weird. Eunice was a woman with such clear energy, capable of making everyone in her surroundings feel good.


    At first, Freyr didnt dislike her either. She thought it was a really good thing.


    Not until her husband had a gleam in his eyes when he saw her.


    * * *


    I couldnt feel the warmth next to me in the bedroom from some time ago.


    Waiting for him untilte at night, when I opened my eyes in the early morning and saw the seat next to me empty,


    When I saw himing out of Eunices roomte in the morning,


    For the first time in her peaceful life, Freyr realized something was going wrong. Nevertheless, Freyr could not do anything about it.


    Eunice, who is sweet and kind, brightens up her surroundings, and people are naturally attracted to her.


    But she couldnt just stay still.


    Honey, there are eyes around us. I dont think its good to get too close to Eunice.


    Freyr thought that this was a natural right to say as his wife.


    Two adult men and women are in a secret room Shouldnt you be careful about that?


    Ill take care of it.


    But


    Wife, Eunice is helping me. As you know, the capital city is very chaotic.


    Duke sighed loudly as if he was asking her to listen.


    There wont be such a thing for you to worry about.


    Her advice didnt even work with the duke.


    Dukes answer to Freyrs advice was cold, but since then, the rtionship between Duke and Eunice seems to have be increasingly awkward.


    Still uneasy, Freyr secretly hired a man to chase after Eunice.


    Freyr only hoped.


    Please, I hope I misunderstood the rtionship between those two.


    She wanted to make sure, even at the risk of embarrassing herself.


    Would this not have happened if I had just held on to a little reason and waited for my husband toe back to me?


    Obviously, she just tried to keep her position.


    Freyr raised her head slowly and looked at the ce where she was.


    A deste, narrow space that she had never been before.


    Why did Ie here?


    Freyr couldnt keep herself sane. It was so fast that the people who were always kind to her turned their backs, and it was the same with her husband as well.


    With the false usation that she was filled with jealousy and greed, and tried to hurt an innocent person and his lover, she was confined on a spire.


    Freyr Heronis, the sin of abducting and torturing the people of the slums, and cursing at the imperial family with their blood and brought chaos in the whole empire!


    The tone of his voice was cold.


    The crime of kidnapping, threatening, and taking their lives. Hence, I shall remove Heroniss surname from her and sentence her to life in prison.


    Her ex-husbands voice was no longer friendly to her.


    Since when has his voice been so cold to me?


    Even if it was a political marriage, was it my delusion to think that it was a happy rtionship?


    I just wanted to confirm that the strange rtionship between those two was my delusion.


    Neither did I want to attack Eunice, nor did I ever order people to kidnap her.


    I just I just wanted to know for sure what the rtionship between those two was.


    Even though she begged, screamed, pleaded, and cried because of the unfairness, neither her husband nor the people around her listened to her.


    At first, I didnt have any suspicion.


    That something was wrong.


    What do you mean, the body was found in the basement of the mansion? A blood crazy-witch.


    You dont really believe that crap, do you?You dont.


    You know Im scared to see blood, let alone dead bodies.


    Please, please say no.


    I wanted to believe that he was trying to get me out.


    But as a week went by and a month went by, I had no choice but to realize that this was reality.


    Still, I waited for him endlessly.


    I believed that I could go back to my ce.


    Because that was the only thing Freyr could do there.


    * * *


    During my life on the spire, I found out that I had a present.


    Freyr gently wrapped her stomach.


    With the thought that he woulde to find her when he learns of the childs birth, I informed the guard.


    But even after a long time, even after I gave birth to my child, my husband didnte to see me.


    News that the Duke of Heronis got married, news of the joy of the nation,


    A sarcastic remark that the Duchess of Eunice is kind and caring for many people, and that she is different from anyone else,


    And even the news about the birth of the princess in Heronis Duke mansion, everyone is talking around and congratting them.


    The child in my arms without even being congratted, lives like this with her mother who became a prisoner.


    When I asked them to call my husband or even contact my rtives, there was no answer that returned back.


    As if they were asking her to die here, those acts, those words, and those gazes killed Freyr again and again.


    The first insult, shame, anguish, and loneliness that she experienced in her life eroded Freyr.


    She found out eventually that the only one who could get her out of this ce was the Duke, so she had no choice but to search for him anxiously.


    Duke, did you really forget about me


    Everyone cursed Freyr as a wicked woman who had gone crazy because of love.


    They pointed her out as a stupid woman, a pathetic woman, who was looking for love even after receiving such treatment.


    Even if she wanted to swear at them or curse them, the only thing that came out of her mouth was the longing for her husband.


    As if no other words were allowed.


    Thats why Freyr gave up thinking about other things.


    The faint expectation that he woulde to find her if she waited was the only reason she could survive.


    Yet, no matter how hard she tried to hold onto her consciousness, it was impossible to do anything if her body was unstable. Freyr found out at some point that the sickness was eating her body.


    Youre dying alone like this.


    Why did the Duke abandon her?


    Why should she be framed and die so miserable?


    Come to think of it, it was really strange.


    A trial wasnt held properly, it was a fixed punishment, and I couldnt even contact her family.


    My life, which was splendid, was no longer there.


    The world was right for abandoning me.


    After all, they curse me as a witch, a wicked woman, and are hoping for me to die.


    The splendid thing was for a moment, and at the end of my life, deep darkness was greeting me.


    When I struggled from death in frustration, despair, and excruciating loneliness, no one but my daughter appeared before me.


    My daughter said she understood me.


    Why did she forget about this child?


    For seven years old, the child was so small and thin.


    I could see the childs hand trembling when she said that she understood what I wanted to be, was dukes wife and not her mother.


    It was obvious to me that people had cursed and abused the child for being her daughter.


    Even when I looked at her through my blurred vision, she had a physique that looked atmost six years old.


    Yes, just for being her own child, she was living like this and would continue to live like this again.


    The hand of the child holding her hand was very warm.


    I wanted to wrap tightly the small, warm, yet trembling hand, and hug the child.


    Nevertheless, in my mouth, I only heard a voice looking for duke.


    Why?


    Only then did Freyr realize that she was strange.


    Why do you say that you miss the Duke if you me him, and cant say any other words?


    She didnt have enough strength to deeply reflect on the sense of deja vu that came to her.


    Only, at the moment of her death, Freyr wanted to open her mouth to call her daughters name.


    The mouth that opened easily when searching for the Duke didnt open at its own will, so Freyr resented and regretted it.


    Daphne. Daphne. Daphne.


    My poor daughter, whom I couldnt even give a proper name.


    Why did she finally remember her daughter, who she held in her arms a few times?


    When I had you, I was so happy.


    It was as if my memory had been erased and then rewritten.


    As if someone were covering her mouth, she resented her tightly sealed mouth, and Freyr closed her eyes, enduring the injustice.


    She felt her consciousness slowly sinking down with tears flowing from her eyes.


    She was no longer afraid of this death.


    If, God is listening to me


    If God considers me to be a little wise, please, please.


    Please dont let my daughter walk on the same fate as me.


    If my daughter is born with this fate, please let her break that fate


    I heard the voice of my daughter, Daphne, looking for me.


    However, Freyr could never open her eyes again.


    The childs name could not be called at the end.


    It was the end.


    * * *


    The heavy pressure that held me down so far had disappeared.


    When I thought that I was as light as a butterfly, I really became a purple butterfly.


    I saw something beneath my wings. As I approached, I saw a little girl sitting in front of me.


    It was Daphne, the daughter of Freyr.


    I thought it was definitely the end, but was she given another chance?


    I instinctively knew what to do in this situation.


    I cant take care of this child, touch her, hug her, or even call out her name.


    I wanted to live for my child for thest time. So, I pped my wings vigorously to take the child to a safe ce.


    The unfamiliar boy was sad, looking at the child. Somehow, I thought that if he were to be that childs family, that child would be happy, too.


    This was the end of what I could do.


    As I felt the wings that were pping hard slowly turn into light, my eyes met with the child who was leaving far away.


    Good-bye, Butterfly.


    Despite the words of gratitude from the childs mouth, Freyr could not cry.


    Because she wasnt allowed to cry.


    She was just sad.


    This will be ourst meeting.


    I shouldve held you in my arms a little longer.


    I shouldve given you a name myself.


    I shouldve told you I love you at least once.


    From the beginning to the end, she was a truly unqualified mother.


    Therefore, I had no choice but to hope that you live a happy life.


    The purple butterfly began to be erased from this ce.


    Freyr, who was slowly disappearing into the light, prayed to God again, knowing that it was her greed.


    Please, give this ugly mother another chance in the next life.


    Really, Ill give her generous love in the next life.


    Please, once again, put that child down by my side.


    I want to tell my child that I love her so much until she gets sick of it.


    I want to make my child happy.


    I want to be Daphnes mother.


    I want to live happily with Daphne.


    If God is listening


    The purple butterfly, with its little wish, left a small halo of light and disappeared without a trace.


    Only God knew whether her wish reached God or not.

 Chapter 11

    The soft feeling surrounding my body was very strange to me.


    As soon as I felt strange, the consciousness that had been lying far away slowly began to rise, and I opened my eyes.


    I slept well.


    Even though everyone said to sleepfortably untilte, perhaps because of my habit at the nursery, my eyes naturally opened at 8 a.m in the morning.


    I blinked, looking at the white ceiling.


    Is it because I cried and slept yesterday


    I think my eyes are a little puffy. I rubbed my eyes and looked down at the nket that covered my legs.


    The soft, warm nket, not the rough old one, touched my skin, and it seemed to inform me that this situation was not a dream.


    its not a dream.


    Yes, it was really not a dream.


    An unfamiliar ceiling, soft bedding, and the light that came in through the window.


    I realized that I had finallye out of the crummy nursery, which I used to take for granted after learning that I was in the novel.


    I scratched my itchy mouth and tried to pull the corners of my mouth gently. The trembling corners of my mouth were utterly awkward as if it was trying to prove that I barelyughed.


    Nevertheless, I was happy, and I liked my situation where I couldugh.


    Feeling a new environment, I stretched out my arms, and soon I heard the birds sound from outside. The chirping sound of birds was different from the loud noise that I often heard in the nursery, so without realizing, I thought I wanted to see it.


    No, before that, isnt this underground?


    I thought the merchants group base was underground, what do you mean by the sound of birds?


    The curiosity toward the bird turned into a curiosity about the ce I was staying.


    Even though I have a memory of being an adult, was it because it was a childs body?


    Forgetting that I was injured, I stepped out of my bed to solve my curiosity. And at the same time, I fell to the floor with a loud noise. Obviously, the foot I stepped on with didnt have any strength, and as soon as I fell, it reminded me that I was injured.


    Ahhh.


    I must have hit my arm when I fell, so my elbow was throbbing.


    It hasnt even been a long since I got hurt.


    Are you going to be satisfied after making your whole body covered in wounds, Daphne?


    I had no choice but to sigh, ming myself. Before anyone saw it, I grabbed the bed and tried to climb up. At that moment, I heard a sudden noise of someone rushing, and then, the door suddenly opened with a quick knock.


    Daphne!


    Perhaps he heard the sound when I fell, Lennox hurried into the room with his green hair waving.


    Are you okay?


    Then he reached out his hand carefully to me.


    I wonder if it was because of the time spent in the nursery, his hands ovepped with someones hand trying to harass me, so at that moment, I closed my eyes tightly and crouched down.


    Ah.


    There was a moment of silence, and I felt some bad atmosphere. My face turned red when I realized that I was scared and crouched like a habit.


    Well, I Im sorry


    Lennox has been kind to me since the first time I met him, but with my actions a while ago, he may be feeling bad.


    As a habit, I looked at his eyes and said that I did something wrong. Upon hearing my words, Lennoxs expression hardened.


    you did nothing wrong.


    Lennox, who settled his expression so quick, felt as if it was my illusion that he had been stiff a while ago. He smiled softly and hugged me.


    I was surprised to hear the loud noises so I ran quickly. I scared you, didnt I? Im sorry.


    You didnt do anything wrong.


    Strangely, I didnt hate the way he apologized, but I couldnt bring up any words.


    Its strange and still strange.


    It was now quite clear that the soft bed was not the only thing thats strange to me.


    Are you alright?


    Yes.


    Now that I can finally answer, I nodded and spoke as if I had waited.


    Perhaps genuinely surprised, Lennox put his hand on his chest and sighed with relief, so the atmosphere felt strange again.


    You must have been surprised by the sudden fall.


    Then, he smiled softly as if that could be possible. He seemed to think that I fell down while sleeping.


    Looking at the hands that covered my body with a nket and with a friendly smile as yesterday, I tilted my head.


    It happened when I forgot that I hurt my leg like a fool and tried to get out of bed.


    Thats possible when youre half asleep.


    Saying not to call myself fool for such reason, Lennox put a soft towel in a bowl of water he had brought.


    And he wiped my face with a moist towel.


    I, I can do it!


    You seem to have hit your arm as you fell over. Leave this to me.


    When else did he see my arms moving awkwardly?


    I had no choice but to nod quietly because I felt I had lied for no reason.


    A hot towel swept my face.


    As it got warm from face to toe, even though I just woke up, I fell asleep feeling tired. When I began to doze off, Lennox burst into a smallugh andid me down carefully.


    I guess your eyes are a little swollen fromck of sleep. Ill steam it, so take a rest. When you get up again, lets have breakfast together.


    A soft voice flowed down my ear like a luby, and I nodded unconsciously and slowly fell asleep.


    ***


    The moment the delicious smell stimted my sense of smell, I suddenly woke up.


    Even though I opened my eyes, its dark, now am I also blind? So was it all a dream? I thought for a moment.


    But after a moment, it also urred to me btedly that Lennox said he would apply a hot towel to my eyes.


    Come to think of it, I cried out loud yesterday.


    I cried and cried like that, so it wouldnt be hard for my eyes to get swollen.


    How funny did my face look?


    Sighing out of shame for no reason, I removed the towel that covered my eyes. Only then did I see the bright lighting in again and the clock beyond it. I had no choice but to hup when I saw the clock bar running toward eleven oclock.


    Hup.


    I cant believe I slept for nearly three hours, because of ack of sleep.


    Was I someone who sleeps a lot?


    In amazement, I was continuously huping, and suddenly I felt somethinging from behind.


    Whoa-!


    Ahcyak!


    A light pink hair appeared before my eyes.


    He appeared behind me as if he had intended to frighten me, and as soon as I shouted in surprise, Ricardaughed yfully as if it met his expectations.


    Good morning, Daphne.


    ha.


    And then I heard Chloes sigh. I moved my head a little and looked at Chloe behind me. As soon as she felt my gaze, Chloe smiled, as if she never sighed.


    Did you sleep well, baby?


    I nodded, soothing my astonishment at the formal morning greeting.


    Good morning. So..


    What should I call Chloe?


    When I couldnt control my expression and was embarrassed, Ricarda in front of me burst intoughter.


    It was augh as if he was looking at his cute sister, so I almost stared at him without realizing it, but Chloe was faster to step up and hit him on the head.


    Youre very good at surprising your sister and evenughing at her, arent you?


    No, I was just trying to stop her hups so I surprised her. Iughed because she is so cute, but my mother doesnt even know how I feel and Ricarda is upset!


    The sight of a grown boy forlorn act, to be honest, looked gross. As if Chloe felt the same as me, she frowned a little and soon turned her gaze away.


    Its ugly to watch, Rica.


    Lennox, who suddenly appeared, spoke out as if to calm the situation. But it was counterproductive, and Ricarda pretended to be upset without losing.


    For our youngest, too, is your brother ugly? Your brother just wanted to stop your hupping, andughed because you are so cute.


    .


    What kind of answer is right?


    If I am honest, I think I would look hateful, and to tell a lie, my conscience stops me from doing it.


    I looked at Lennox to ask for help but then he avoided looking at me. This time I cast my eyes at Chloe and she also avoided my gaze.


    Even though they could see I was clearly embarrassed, Chloe and Lennox just looked at us like they were having fun, and didnt step forward to stop Ricarda.


    What should I do?


    Sniffle, sniffle. Your brother is so sad. Even for our youngest, brother is ugly? Dont you want to see me?


    Do you want an honest answer, or do you want a pretty word, even if its a lie?


    In the end, all I could do was ask questions and give him an option.


    Everyone who listened to me opened their eyes wide as if they were surprised.


    ?


    When everyone suddenly made the same face, I rolled my eyes, not knowing what to say.


    Chloe burst intoughter.


    Oh, well. As expected of my daughter. Its the same with asking questions in a difficult situation.


    Fortunately, the mood did not seem to be ruined when she smiled as if she liked it.


    When Chloe smiled satisfactorily, Ricarda began tough, saying, I was really like Chloe, and Lennox watched us as if he were having fun.


    Please call me Motherfortably from now on. Now that the baby is awake, shall we go eat?


    I nodded, saying I understood and was ready to go eat.


    Ah, but how am I going?


    I dont think I can see the wheelchair anywhere, nor the crutches.


    I was hoping we could help you out first until your legs get healed. Will it be okay?


    I think its going to take a while to get the wheelchair to fit you, and crutches will be hard to handle with your body, so that wont do either.


    At Lennoxs exhortation and Ricardas firm words, I looked at Chloe, no, mother, and nodded.


    Wouldnt that bother you? Im sure, Ill be heavy.


    Come on, youre totally light if brother can carry you in his back.


    Our brother is so weak.


    When Ricarda shrugged, Lennoxs cold gaze seemed to be directed towards Ricardas side.


    Then, when I made eye contact, Lennox smiled again as if he had never done so, and reached out his hands to me.


    If you dont mind, can I hold you?


    Hes tall and well built to be called someone weak. I stared at his wide embrace and slowly opened my arms. That way, I couldfortably be held in Lennoxs arms.


    It was onlyter that I found out that a wheelchair was already ready for me to ride.

 Chapter 12

    does it not suit your taste?


    Chloe asked, when I was only staring at the splendid table in front of me and not eating.


    Ah, no. Im a little surprised.


    Surely the most famous merchant group in the Empire is different. The food on the splendid table was so different from the nursery that I couldnt even decide what to touch first.


    Steamy soup, fresh-looking sd, meat dishes made only with soft cuts, etc. It must have looked weird to be absent-minded while looking at various foods.


    Youd better eat only enough so that it doesnt strain your body.


    Ive never eaten properly until now, so I shouldnt suddenly eat more by feeling pressured. I felt solemn at the end of my thoughts.


    Okay, lets start with the soup first.


    I gulped, looking at the food and slowly spooned the soup and took it to my mouth.


    Gulp


    The hot, soft soup slowly went down from my mouth.


    Ah, its delicious.


    Its so delicious. As soon as I put it in, the vor of the soup filled my mouth.


    My hands got faster without realizing, because I was eating this delicious food for the first time in my life.


    I was eating the soup in a hurry, and suddenly it became quiet on the table.


    ?


    Did I eat too fast?


    Everyone looked surprised with their stiff looks. Did I look ugly when I was eating? I had that thought for awhile.


    Daphne, are you crying?


    When Ricarda asked, I put down the spoon I was holding and touched my cheek. As he said, tears were flowing from my eyes. When I blinked, more tears fell down as if it had waited.


    did I cry?


    Even I was embarrassed and stammered, and Ricarda asked again.


    I thought you were eating well. Was it bad? Do you want another dish? Thesagna in front is also delicious.


    When he tried to bring another food to me in a hurry with a fidgety voice, I shook my head in embarrassment.


    How can you say this food is not delicious?


    Ive never had such delicious food before. So did I cry?


    When I spoke to him, Ricardas hand, which quickly dropped another dish in front of me, hardened.


    Somehow this situation, where silence keeps falling because of me, was so burdensome. I shriveled up as if a heavy load had fallen on my shoulder, but then, Ricardas hand moved again.


    I see. Then, would you like to dip this bread in the soup? The bread tastes good when moistened with soup.


    Ah. Yes.


    Ricarda cut the bread in front and put it on my te, and as he said, I tried dipping the bread in the soup.


    its delicious.


    My voice rose a little.


    I blushed, embarrassed of the voice that rose without my knowledge, and Ricarda smiled brightly.


    Right? Because I made it. Its nice to see you eat it deliciously!


    With a proud voice, he served a variety of food on a te little by little.


    Lennox, sitting next to me, carefully wiped away the tears from my eyes and cheeks with a handkerchief.


    You shouldnt have any traces of tears left.


    Thank you.


    Somehow, I think Im being treated like a child?


    I dont know why theyre doing this to me, but it wasnt contempt nor malice, so I decided to put down my heavy heart for a while and enjoy the pleasure in my mouth.


    * * *


    It was really delicious.


    I was embarrassed to keep eating even after everyones meals were over because I ate too slowly, but it was so delicious that I could not easily put down the fork.


    Fortunately, everyone told me to eat slowly and said they would wait for me, so I could enjoy the delicious food a little more and, I felt happy.


    If there was a happiness gauge, I think its already 10% full.


    Until now, I was just in a hurry to fill my stomach, so I couldnt afford to enjoy the taste. But, after eating this leisurely, I thought that food is so delicious and eating is fun.


    Because there is a saying that people live to eat.


    Unlike usual, I looked at my full stomach and also ate the dessert in front of me.


    What if they think Im a pig? What if they kick me out for eating too much?I was worried about this for a moment.


    Its a rich merchants group. Wouldnt this be okay? And its bad to leave food behind.


    I was a little worried, but I seeded in rationalizing it.


    I cleared the pudding in front of me and stroked my stomach satisfactorily. Then I heard a smallugh from the side.


    Ah, Im sorry. Did you enjoy your meal?


    Lennox, pretending not tough, looked at me and smiled softly.


    Ive never had such delicious food before.


    On that remark, Ricarda raised his head with pride.


    I am responsible for the food in this house. Tell me everything you want to eat! This brother will take responsibility for everything!


    Why does he keep emphasizing the word brother?


    The unfamiliar title bothered me a little, but I nodded.


    I wish it was the same as today.


    Because, everything was perfect!


    Since the person who gives something bad is a bad person, so lets assume that the person who gives something delicious is a good person.


    I shook my head, thinking about what I had eaten over the years.


    Since I had already erased it neatly from my head, I didnt want to think about it anymore.


    Hmm hmm. Im d you enjoyed your meal.


    Thanks for the meal.


    At my greeting, my mother smiled and nodded. Somehow she seems a little proud too, is it my mistake?


    First of all, Ill let you know what you have to do from now on.


    As soon as the meal is over, shes getting to the main point?


    As expected, the head of the merchants group didnt do it for free. Youve given me the room to sleep and enough food to eat, so now youre asking me to pay for it.


    Thats why she got to the main point in order to avoid wasting time.


    I thought she was amazing as expected, and rxed my posture correctly and nodded.


    What should I do?


    Im already prepared to make amitment to do whatever she asks me.


    Because I can do anything except to die.


    My mother also clenched her hands, raised her chin, and spoke seriously, as if she had seen my firm determination.


    There are only two things without any difficulty. Can you do it?


    Instead of telling me what it is, youre going to make me promise first.


    I swallowed and nodded.


    Of course.


    Okay. For the first one.


    My mother sharp eyes descended from my head to the toe.


    With the surging tension, my back filled with pressure, and finally she opened her mouth.


    You will return that weak body which flickers like paper to normal.


    What?


    Contrary to the expectation that a great deal woulde, when the story about my health came out, I suddenly felt relieved.


    Even though I blinked in embarrassment, my mother continued to talk without taking a nce.


    You have to take all your meals and medicines so that your injured legs can recover as soon as possible.


    As if that wasnt the only thing, her mouth didnt stop.


    All the wounds on the legs and other minor injuries should be treated by Ricarda.


    I think its hard to call a doctor or a priest seeing your circumstances. But basically, I know how to use healing magic. Just trust me!


    After my mothers words, Ricardas bold words continued, but since I was surprised by the absurd conditions, I was not able to hear them properly.


    You cant skip meals, try not to take medicine, or refuse the treatment.


    ..


    Shouldnt you answer?


    Ah yes!


    When my answer came, she spoke immediately about the second condition.


    Second, think more than five things about what you want to do or your wishes, and tell me.


    I havent ever thought about the second condition, so I couldnt give any answer.


    I wondered if she was trying to make fun of me, so I bit my lips and answered, facing her.


    Is there a rtionship between these two conditions and my sessor status? I thought you were going to get me to work.


    My motherughed at my answer, saying that she knew I would answer like that.


    Before bing a sessor, you have to live your life as a person, so the most important thing is your health. Because only if you are healthy, you can continue living.


    You have to be a healthy sessor, so the first condition is valid.


    She was right.


    If the person who will seed is weak, it will be easy to be ignored by the people around them.


    Ill tell you about the second condition. If you are a sessor of the merchants group, you need to know how to live withoutcking anything.


    Lennox and Ricarda beside me nodded in affirmation to the words.


    Above all, the existence of a business depends on how big a merchants desires and the wants are. You have to be able to pull it out.


    Is that so?


    Of course not only pulling out, but also hide it, but I think it would be better for you to learn from pulling it out.


    After listening to all the exnations, it seemed like all conditions were necessary to be a sessor.


    As expected, you certainly consider even a child as a partner in the contract.


    Thinking that she wasnt leading this big merchants group for no reason, I nodded vigorously, admiring my mothers intentions.


    Dont be too upset about these conditions.


    Of course.


    It wasnt just the sympathy that was given, but the goal was created, which gave me more power.


    Then, Ill be healthy. Im going to eat regrly, take medicine, and get treatment to stay healthy.


    Thats right.


    And Ill think about what I want to do. When do I have to say it?


    Theres no deadline, so think about it leisurely. Those who have the time and those who dont have the time are noticeably different. Outwardly and inwardly.


    The nce that seemed to pierce me was like advice telling me to give up or hide my urgent mind.


    Its only been two days since we met, but I thought it was a bit of mother-like advice and made up my mind.


    Yes!


    And the answer was energetic.


    On the table where the stillness flowed, a warm atmosphere suddenly filled up.


    My mothers, Ricardas and Lennoxs expression looked satisfied.


    I was also very satisfied with this situation, so I wished every day would be just like today.


    In that sense. I forgot to give you this.


    What?


    My mother lifted the object that she had put under the table.


    Oh, thats!

 Chapter 13

    Is that my bag?


    The identity of the object that suddenly appeared was the bag I brought with me.


    Now that I see it, that day, I just left without thinking and again, returned back with my lost consciousness.


    That old bag, which does not fit with this building, exuded a toxic presence.


    Wait a minute. Come to think, I didnt just put the papers in there.


    When I saw the seal with an unknown purpose, I thought it was an important object, and so I put it in my bag, thinking it might be thest resort


    I cant believe I forgot that.


    I said I put it in my side pocket of the bag so you cant see it well, but they might have searched the bag carefully, right?


    Have you seen it?


    It was really meant to be kept as ast resort.


    Suddenly, I was shaken by impatience and then seeing my mothers cold eyes, I remembered the words a little while ago.


    She said you had to pretend to have someposure, even if you didnt have it.


    One has to calm the startled hearts and then hide their impatience behind them, and elicit a normal reaction as if it were nothing.


    But Ive never done that kind of acting before. My heart is impatient


    Though the cold sweat running on my back onlysted a short time, I felt that I was sweating for a long time.


    No, lets rx. Im not acting.


    You shouldnt think youre acting, but you are truly sincere.


    I dont really care about anything, so I dont have to lose myposure or be impatient. I incessantly recalled it and put it deeply in my mind as if I were shouting a spell. Then naturally, my expression became normal, that I couldnt believe it myself, and the impatience hid behind me.


    I didnt know youd keep it. Thank you.


    How can I throw it away? There might be something important.


    I blinked at the question as if she spoke out my thoughts.


    Perhaps she was waiting for my answer, my mothers eyes looked cold, and she stood up from her seat, saying it was time to get back to work.


    I have to go back to the capital to work. Ricarda will also be busy today, and Lennox will be by your side since he has time.


    Sorry, Daphne. I want to stay with you too! But, I have to go to the Hospital for Daphne and learn the magic of treatment from other acquaintances.


    Ricarda pretended to wipe away the tears that did not even flow.


    As if he didnt care about Lennoxs abominable stare, he soon stood up from his seat.


    So, see you in the evening. Ill go first, Mother!


    With that voice, a magic wand rose on the floor, emitting the light, and Ricarda disappeared.


    !


    Is that what magic is?


    As Ive been locked up in a nursery, Ive only heard of this before, but it was the first time I saw it in person.


    With her eyes wide open like a rabbit, she only looked at the ce where Ricarda disappeared and soon, came to her senses and shifted her gaze, when her mother spoke.


    Well, Ill go, too. Ill see you at dinner time.


    My mother strode over and stroked my head gently.


    And, like when we first met, she disappeared from here with a mysterious smoke.


    wow.


    I couldnt hide my feelings from the strange scenes, so I opened my mouth and stared at the ce that she had disappeared from.


    Magic, I finally feel like the world that I was living now has changed.


    Since I lived as an orphan even in my previous life, be it past or present life, I had suffered the same difficulty, so it was a world that was no different. Now, after I finally felt like Im living in a different world, my heart is pounding and fluttering for no reason.


    Ricarda is an excellent wizard, and mother is a Mage(1*). They both have strong mana, and they deal very well with their strengths.


    While I was in awe, Lennox, who had already cleared the bowl, stood by the clean table looking at me and stroked my head.


    Theyre outstanding people, and you could be like that.


    What about Lennox? Is Lennox a wizard?


    Well, Im not a wizard.


    Lennox hesitated for a moment, fiddling with his hair, and smiled with an ashamed expression.


    Im an alchemist. I make potions, or invent mysterious things  I do such things.


    It was only then that he looked like a boy of that age that blushed out of proportion, perhaps because of the enormous amount of shame that came in.


    If its potions, is Lennox making my medicine, too?


    Im just making what Ricarda asked for.


    Wow.


    Thats something great. Why is he so ashamed?


    Lennox blushed even more, so I decided to stop asking him questions out of consideration. When the question was over, Lennox opened his arms as if he had been waiting.


    Now, shall we go back to the room?


    ..


    I hesitated for a moment when Lennox raised his arm and tried to lift me up, and then, he paused momentarily.


    Whats wrong? Do you not want to be held?


    No, Its not that, I dont want to go back to my room yet


    My mother didnt tell me not to leave the room so I can ask him a favor, right?


    I want to look around because its the ce Im going to live from now on.


    The most important thing is to get as much information as possible. In my situation, the more information, the better. My mother told me to do only two things, but knowing the story, I know what future is about toe.


    The male lead of the second part willsoon appear.


    I need aplete picture of my situation before the story begins. I clenched my fists and looked up at Lennox.


    Cant you?


    I dont know if he felt my solemn eyes, but Lennox nodded seriously with a stiff look. With his approval, I raised my arms a little and embraced him, as I did, before the meal.


    Youre right. You have to know the house youre going to live in the future. If you have a favor to ask, dont look around and just be honest.


    Yes, thank you.


    Im going to take a quick look at this house since Ive got clear permission.


    Without even knowing that Lennox was looking at me, my eyes glistened brightly.


    * * *


    You came to the basement in the main street, right? This is the private house that connects to it.


    This must have been a different ce than where I came from.


    Theres an official office of the merchants group at the capital.


    Then, where are we?


    Lennox smiled without answering my question and pulled the curtains in front of him.


    forest?


    With green trees and chirpy birds, you wouldnt even think of this as winter.


    And on one side of the yard, there was a small garden full of colorful flowers.


    Where are we really??


    To call it a forest, its far from the season, and to call it capital, its far from the people.


    As I frowned and looked around the window, Lennox held me up again, worried that I might fall.


    As you said, the forest is right. Its Ricardas work. Protective magic, non-identifiable magic, and hidden magic are spread out together.


    Why in the forest?


    Mother doesnt like loud noises very much. Well, as a location, its for life


    Lennox was speaking softly and suddenly stopped.


    Lennox?


    Ah, its nothing. Its because my mother likes the scenery of the forest. It also protects her privacy.


    Then what about going to the capital from here?


    Mother and Ricarda seem to go with magic, but Lennox?


    When asked about the curious question, Lennox went up to the second floor by taking the stairs connected to the room.


    This is my mothers office.


    Mother was not here because she had already gone to work in the capital. When I opened the door of the Oval Office, I could see a great number of books piled up on the desk, and arge clock on the wall.


    If you go here in front of the clock, youll see the magic hanged by Ricarda. Its only avable to authorized personnel.


    So, its only for Lennox?


    Not only me, but also my mother, my mothers secretary, and a tearful uncle.


    Well, it makes sense for the secretary, but whos the tearful uncle?


    When I made a puzzled look, Lennox smiled.


    After staying together, youll see each other someday. When Ricardaes backter, lets ask him to register Daphne, too?


    Yes, I like it.


    Along with the voice, Lennox slowly showed me the house.


    The three-floor house was a little smaller than the size of the main nursery, but it wasrge enough for the three members to live in.


    Even with a spare room, three or four would be quite expensive.


    Even if they aremoners, they are not the samemoners.


    At first nce, it looked like an ordinary house, but if you look closely, it wasnt necessarily like that. Even in my ignorant eyes, the shiny materials on the walls and floors looked luxurious.


    I guess money is the best.


    It was an inevitable choice, but it was also a good thing toe here. I looked around the house and nodded in satisfaction.


    I love the house. Unlike the ces Ive lived, its so pretty and my room is nice.


    Your room?


    We had a light sandwich together, and Lennox, at my words wondered what I was saying.


    Isnt that my room?


    I recalled that neat room where I had opened my eyes in the morning.


    Warm sunshine, soft bedding, and clean walls and ceilings.


    It wasnt mine, either.


    Yes, how could I have such a nice room?


    It was a very nice room to give to the first person they met yesterday.


    I should be grateful for the fact that they let me stay here and be the sessor, even if its just words.


    Come to think about it, I asked her to allow me to be a sessor proudly in front of Lennox and Ricarda.


    I dont think they liked it either


    Was it because I was a child that I was easily relieved because of their kindness?


    Strangely, I knew it was obvious.


    I bit my lips tightly and tightened my eyes just in case tears would fall down.


    I wont even allow a single drop of tears.


    You shouldnt be crying here.


    With my head down, I touched the sandwich in my hand for no reason, pretending not to cry, pretending to be okay.


    This used to make my tears go in, so this time too Itll go in.


    The ce you were in, was the guest room. This is a secret


    When I looked at Lennox, who didnt notice my gaze, I could hear the sound of him passing by and looking around.


    There was no one around, and after looking around for a long time for the thing that bothered him, he carefully lowered his head and whispered in my ear.


    Your room is decorated separately by mother. Its a much better roompared to the guest room.


    Lennoxs friendly words were incredibly warm. To the extent that I think this situation is a dream.

 Chapter 14

    what?


    At Lennoxs words, I raised my head in amazement. Lennox was a little surprised to see my eyes facing him, but soon he continued with his words.


    Actually, there was a room that I didnt show you before. I dont know if you can remember it.


    The words naturally reminded me of a door that we passed by. There was another door next to my mothers office.


    Re, I remember.


    Thats going to be your room in the future.


    ..


    I was really surprised this time. I was so surprised that my hups burst out again. Lennox, embarrassed by my reaction, hurried to hand me warm water.


    I, I thought I didnt have one.


    As I held my breath and barely managed to stop hups and stammered, Lennox smiled, saying that it would never happen.


    Because that smile was so sweet, unfamiliar, and I felt happy, so, like a fool, I thought, even if that smile was a lie, I am happy at this moment.


    After a simple evening meal together, I decided to get my hair trimmed as Lennox suggested.


    Your hair will be shorter, but itll be much cleaner.


    Lennox is good at trimming, right?


    So, you mean you will believe me?


    Lennox smiled at my words and picked up scissors. I agreed to the word that he would clean up my messy and irregr hair, but I was nervous about what it would be like.


    Woah.


    In spite of my nervousness, Lennox really deftly moved his hands to arrange my hair.


    Its over. How is it? It didnt take that long, right?


    Looking at the mirror Lennox prepared for me, I saw a curly white hair just below my ear.


    Its really short.


    Do you like short hair? It seemed like you cut it yourself.


    I cut it roughly, since no one cut my hair.


    When I finished my words, he stopped doing what he was doing and looked at me. His gaze reached towards me, but I continued to talk because I didnt care about it.


    I cut it myself because I didnt want to hear people swearing at my hair color when they cut my hair. Anyway, everyone hates me.


    I was going to continue talking, but I couldnt keep talking because Lennox suddenly hugged me tightly.


    It was because I could see his eyes turning red like he was holding back his tears.


    I dont know why he was sad.


    You must have been scared.


    I thought it was just a little bit worse than usual


    Was it scary?


    I slowly recalled the time I tried not to think about it.


    Did they say I was poisonous? Did they say they didnt want to see me? Did they say I was mean?


    As I listened to words, full of malice in so many different ways, all words mixed up so I couldnt remember it in detail.


    Therefore, my voice was calm.


    But, well, it was worth holding on.


    And at the words, Lennox burst into tears.


    Heug.


    Tears streamed from Lennoxs eyes. The tears that burst did not stop, as if he were the one feeling it, and soon, I felt his tears seeping into my shoulders. Rather than sighing at the damp clothes, I thought that the priority was tofort Lennox, who did not know why he was crying.


    Dont cry.


    Pat Pat


    It seemed a little strange to pat a man who was taller than me, and as if Lennox felt it too, he cried even more sadly.


    Heug-heug.


    .


    Are you really crying because of me?


    The movement of the patting hand slowed down.


    A child he met for not even a month, also, a child who could threaten his position, and above all, when he found out that she was the daughter of a wicked woman whom everyone despised


    Lennox was very friendly.


    And I was very unfamiliar with his kindness.


    To the extent, that I wanted to reject it.


    Lennox.


    yes, Daphne.


    Why are you crying?


    ..


    Lennox breathed in for a moment, wiped away his tears in a hurry, and smiled graciously with his red eyes.


    I think theres dust in my eyes.


    I dont think so.


    I guess its gone now.


    Look at this. How sweet he is, in turning words around like this. So, I decided to bring up something that I must say here.


    Unlike the smile before, he smiled as if he didnt want to worry me. And then, a cold voice came out.


    You dont have to be so sweet to me. Were tied up in a contractual rtionship anyway, and Im


    I took a breath and put a word in my mouth that I did not want to say to the friendly Lennox.


    Im a greedy child. I dont want to lose what I once gained. Thats why, dont be nice to me.


    There was no word between us after that. When I said I wanted to take a rest, Lennox carefully brought me to the room, just like before.


    Call me if you need me. Take a good rest, and Ill be back at dinner time.


    After saying that, Lennox left the room.


    Sitting on the bed, I stared nkly at the clean room. The room that I thought was good, when I was suddenly left alone, I immediately felt bad.


    He looked tenderhearted, but he wasnt hurt, was he?


    Ive got bigger fish to fry* and still, in this situation, Im worried about Lennox.


    T/n: * To have more important or more interesting things to do.


    I need to wake up.


    Surviving is the first priority in order to achieve happiness. I would be happy if I survive, twist the contents of the second part, mix it up, and overturn the happy ending.


    How can I be so happy already?


    Kindness given to me brings happiness, but the happiness that alreadyes will be poison to me.


    I shook my head hard and pped my cheek with both hands. When I pped myself on the cheek with a pair-sounding sound, I was able to divert my thoughts from the tingling.


    Lets forget, I must forget it. Think about what you have to do right now.


    There are many things to do. When the male protagonist appears, you have to either kill him or give him the kindness to win his heart and use it, then throw him away without any mercy.


    Im going to make sure he doesnt trust anyone. Im going to ruin his rtionship with the heroine.


    Even in the novel, my mother didnt bother killing the main character. Its more likely she will try to save him again.


    No matter how much I take this position


    This sloppy romance fantasy world that I belong to is following the coercion of the original.


    The main character may stay here in a different way, so I should think about what to do with him.


    And this seal, too.


    I lifted up the old bag beside the bed and took out the seal I had hidden.


    I was so embarrassed by her refusal that I gave her all the documents, so this is the only thing I have.


    Hopefully, that will not be the case, but its important to leave thest card in case its needed.


    Above all, this seal was not like an ordinary object. This could be a big weakness of the nursery that my mother wants to catch. I hid the seal deep in my bag again and kept my bag on one side.


    if I knew how to read the papers earlier, I would have known all the contents before handing over, right?


    After reading enough, I would have saved it in my head and delivered it to her. Now that I think about it, it was a shame, but with this regret, I thought of my first wish to tell my mother.


    ***


    My mother didnt show up at dinner time, unaffected by my energetic decision to say my first wish.


    Mother is too busy. She wont probablye back until tomorrow evening.


    Ricarda looked sullen as if he wanted to share the sorrow with me, who was feeling down. Then, he gently stroked my head and asked me to have dinner together tomorrow.


    The evening passed so quietly.


    Ricarda, who opened his mouth without asking how his brother was today,


    And Lennox, who listened to him quietly and started to argue.


    I, who only listened to them.


    Would we look like a family if viewed from the outside?


    I wasnt sure how the mealtime went by. Im sure the food was delicious, but why do I feel so empty?


    After the meal, when everyone fell asleep, the dawn hour came. I dont know if it was because of the big room or the darkness of the downtown area of the Capital and the forest, but I couldnt fall asleep and loneliness surrounded me.


    The night felt so long.


    ***


    I woke up early in the morning.


    While trying to stand up, I remembered about my leg injury. As I stayed still on the bed, I soon heard a knock on the door.


    Knock knock!


    Good Morning, Daphne!


    Ricarda, who seemed to be in good spirit even in the early morning, came inside with a big smile.


    Now! Its the morning treatment time!


    With a big smile on his face, Ricarda sat in front of me.


    This brother will try his best again today!


    Please do it.


    Arent you tired of calling yourself brother when I dont even give you any answer?


    He frowned at the unfamiliar words and quickly opened up his frowned eyebrows, thinking not to scrape it off.


    I learned the upgraded version of the healing magic yesterday. I hope this works a little.


    His yfulness disappeared, and seriousness emerged from him. Ricarda rolled up my nket and put his hand on my leg. Soon a light pinkish glow flowed out from his hand, like the color of his hair. The flowing light began to draw intricate patterns of magic. I felt a stream of water running through my body.


    Well, I tried hard. But its harder than I expected.


    After doing magic for a long time, he took his hands off because he thought the right time had passed. The Magic Circle immediately disappeared, and I felt a little lighter.


    Something didnt go the way I wanted. Is your body a little lighter?


    Hmm, a little?


    I dont know if it worked or not, but


    In this situation, where they cant even call a doctor or a priest, the only one I can trust is Ricarda.


    Will he be able to heal my legs?


    I heard Ricarda was an excellent wizard, but he said healing wasnt his main major. Is it possible?


    I should give up on the idea that my legs will healperfectly.


    You thought it was the price of your life in the first ce, so you cant have any regret now.


    You must have a strong heart, Daphne.


    Ricarda was gloomy, so for some reason, even I felt gloomy.


    Thats why I thought back to myself that its okay, its not a waste.


    Im fine. Because I got my life in exchange for my legs. Its not Ricardas fault.


    I tried to get rid of his expression that made me feel guilty. But, before I could say anything more, Ricarda shook his head with a determined look.


    You have to save both your life and your legs; You dont have to give up on one thing.


    still.


    Why do you have to give up? Dont give up.


    Unlike his usualughing voice, Ricardas voice was low and serious.


    When I was surprised by his appearance, Ricarda smiled and said, Dont worry. Ill make you all better.

 Chapter 15

    The words he said with a bright smile made me speechless like yesterday.


    Why are these brothers so kind to me?


    Barely, to someone like me


    I dont know how itll change in the future, and its not even worth it for now.


    This kindness was awful.


    Because I wanted it so badly; because I didnt want to lose once I get it. I squeezed the nket with my hands and calmed my beating heart.


    I wasnt confident enough to face that smile yet.


    In that sense, today is the day you spend with me! Brother took a day off yesterday, so he has to go to work today.


    Ricarda giggled andughed in a yful voice. His yful voice soothed my heart to a certain extent.


    Brother will work busily, and I get time to spend with Daphne.


    is he busy because of me?


    No.


    Wasnt he busy because he took care of me?


    With a firm, quick answer, Ricarda smiled, saying that wasnt the case.


    It was his choice, so that cant be because of you. Its all because of brother himself.


    He smiled, telling me not to worry about it and disappeared for a while after asking me to wait and appeared in front of me again with a tray.


    So, today, lets have fun with only Daphne and brother all day long?


    ***


    The home without Mother and Lennox but only with Ricarda and me wasnt quiet at all. Ricarda told me about many things and kept on talking as if he was anxious to help me.


    I heard you and brother were talking about this magic circle yesterday. Now, put your hand here, and youll be registered, too.


    And saying it would be useful in the future, Ricarda registered me with a magic circle moving to the capital.


    After that, his destination naturally headed to the first floor because yesterday, Lennox let him know that I was guided to the house.


    This is the best ce in our house.


    The next destination was the kitchen. Ricarda sat me in one of the chairs and then lifted his arms.


    Im going to make dinner from now on. Would you like to make it together?


    But what if I ruin it?


    Ive never cooked before.


    What if while youre with me, you ruin the dish?


    Ricarda grinned at the anxious question.


    You cant ruin it when you make it with your brother.


    But


    I had a gloomy look on my face as I recalled memories from the nursery.


    If you ruin the food because of me, everyone will be angry. I always got scolded for trying to help at the nursery.


    In the first ce, everyone said they didnt need my help. I knew that the nursery and this ce were different, but I was still nervous. Ricarda sat face to face in front of me and smiled softly like he had read my anxious mind.


    I am sure theres no one here who can me you for ruining the food.


    After that, Ricardaughed yfully.


    If anyone says anything, Ill give them a scolding, be it Mother or Brother. Since, Ricarda is the youngest.


    Thats not true. Our youngest is Daphne, right?


    Faith arose from those kind words. Ricarda realized like a ghost that I was ready to do it. Even though it was a little help, he also told me he was grateful for my help.


    After wepleted all the preparations for the meal, the time for dinner arrived. Unfortunately, however, we couldnt eat the food together.


    Oh, my. Mother says she cante in today. Lennox is working overtime, too.


    What about Ricarda?


    Of course, Ill be right next to Daphne! Lets have a very delicious dinner together!


    I cant tell her my wish tonight either.


    I was going to say that I want to learn how to write.


    It seems like Im falling a little bit out of it.


    I thought the beginning was half done, but It feels like I havent even started properly.


    Most of all, I think its because my heart feels ufortable.


    I nced slightly at Ricarda. I wonder why he feels good; he just kept on smiling.


    Dont worry. Ill make sure Daphne isnt bored!


    After that, without having time to feel sullen, we had the dinner we made together. And after taking the medicine Lennox made, Iy down on a soft bed.


    Being washed cleanly by magic, I wrapped my dry body gently around the soft nket. The warmth wrapped around my body made me feel drowsy.


    Seeing me like that, Ricarda smiled and sat down in a chair next to me, saying he would read me a fairy tale book.


    Once upon a time


    Its because he talks too much, Ricardas voice too, was pretty rxing.


    As I listened to his story, I began to fall asleep, unlike yesterday. Blinking my eyes and enduring the pouring sleepiness, I remembered that Ipletely forgot to bring up the words that I had to say because the time we spend together today was so pleasant.


    Ricarda.


    Yes, Daphne? I am here.


    At the sound of a bright reply as if to reassure me, I said, holding my heart as firmly as I did yesterday.


    Dont be too friendly to me.


    uh?


    Ive never received affection in my life, but I have a lot of greed and If I had it, I wouldnt want to lose it.


    Thats why you dont have to treat me well.


    I was going to say so.


    Ricarda blinked at my words, and stood up from his seat and said, Why? I dont want to! Im going to love you always!


    ?!


    The sudden shouting of Ricarda surprised me enough to escape from my sleep. I opened my eyes wide and looked at him, and he suddenly hit his mouth.


    Oops, Ricarda, your mean mouth. You cant be this loud.


    I, I mean.


    And Daphne says things that she doesnt have in her mind.


    Then he pinched my mouth very lightly.


    Woo woo?


    With my lips caught, I couldnt say anything but mutter. When I tried to be annoyed as if I was protesting, he shook his head.


    You havent even received it properly yet, so you shouldnt think about losing it. Then, in the end, because of your fear, you wont be able to have anything.


    Im greedy for that! In the first ce, I asked for the sessor position in front of Lennox and Ricarda


    It was heartbreaking to confide in what was most on my mind.


    He pored over my words for a moment and said, Ah! with a face that realized something.


    Thats what bothers you. Is that why you just kept on staring at me? Did you think that because we hate you, well treat you kindly and suddenly start to ignore you one day?


    ..


    It wasnt wrong, so I kept my mouth shut. Ricarda sighed briefly and asked me to excuse him and hugged me tightly. After putting my head on his shoulder, he gently patted me on the back.


    You can worry because you dont know anything. You can think like that.


    Im sorry. I asked her to give me the position of the sessor. Even if it was just words, I suddenly took that ce away.


    Perhaps I should have apologized first.


    But, I still needed it.


    It may be that the conscience left in my heart urged me to apologize, and the firmmitment I made was shaken.


    Ricarda said there was no need for my apology and continued patting.


    I havent told you yet. First of all, Im a great wizard, and my brother is a great alchemist.


    I heard that from Lennox yesterday.


    Thats why both of us are aiming for the seat of Magic Tower and the Pension Tower.


    It was the first time I heard it. I asked, looking at him with eyes full of tears.


    Then what about the seat as the head of the merchant group? After mother retires?


    The seat was undecided. But just recently, there appeared a person with great talent. What was her name? Was it Daphne?


    I couldnt keep up with his joking voice, so I had no choice but to make a nk expression.


    So, its all right. Yeah, its fine.


    Can I take it all? Once I get one thing, Ill want to keep getting others too.


    The more greedy you are, the better. You can want more. Im going to keep on loving Daphne. Youre going to refuse me, even if I say no?


    I dont know if everyone here would think like Ricarda, but considering that they might, I was relieved.


    With the voice that soothed andforted me, my body which was swollen due to tension slowly loosened.


    As my body gradually started to loosen from tension and awkwardness, I felt tired and leaned my foreheadfortably against Ricardas shoulder.


    Ricardas gentle patting on my back, like a luby, made me fall asleep. Soon the sound of breathing came out, and she fell asleep immediately.


    * * *


    Ricarda carefully ced Daphne, who was asleep, on the bed.


    Then, he gently raised the nket to the tip of her chin and used magic to raise the rooms temperature a little.


    Thats not too childlike.


    A barren and hostile environment has made a child who still needs protection into a child who is already mature.


    Ricarda gave Daphne a gentle pat on the head.


    Despite saying he would treat her wounds, let alone the wounds, even minor wounds on her legs did not heal quickly. Neither Ricardas own magic nor his brother Lennoxs recovery potion worked properly, which made him worried. Ricarda sighed briefly and sat down beside Daphne.


    Itd be nice if you were to behave like a little kid.


    Maybe its because you havent gotten familiar with this environment, right, Daphne?


    Ricarda breathed a sigh of relief, and the rooms fire gradually dimmed darker and darker.


    Daphne reminded him of his childhood. Even if she was a child whom he saw just a few days ago, the childs poisonous words and actions hurt his heart.


    And he knew it wasnt just him.


    Mother and Lennox, who iste today because they are busy, probably feel the same way.


    KnockKnock-


    The door opened with a cautious knock. Watching Lennox with a gloomy faceing in, Ricarda smiled as if he knew he would.


    Great work today, brother.


    What about mother?


    Sadly, shes working overtime again today. Shes going toe early tomorrow.


    Daphne must have been very disappointed.


    Lennox threw off his coat to one side and strode over. Then he looked at Daphne, who was asleep quietly, and then frowned.


    A week has passed since she came here, but the child has not yet found stability. And from then on until now, she had been suffering in her dreams without being able to escape her nightmares.


    As Daphne shook her arms in agony, Lennox frowned and slowly brushed the childs forehead.


    Its okay. Its okay.


    Youll be fine. You wont die.


    Ill help you. Ill save you.


    His hypnotizing voice did not stop until Daphne stopped crying and escaped from her nightmare.


    Ug- Ugh. I dont- I dont want- I dont want to die.


    And as if it had waited, today too, tears began to flow from Daphnes eyes.

 Chapter 16

    When Lennox first saw Daphne, the child looked very sick. With a body full of wounds, she seemed to have difficulty walking, and his impression frowned upon seeing her skinny body.


    With a sympathetic nce, Lennox thought even if she were from the slums, it wouldnt be a body covered in wounds to such an extent. He felt sorry for the child who said she hade to make a deal.


    It was evident that she had been abused somewhere, which drew his attention.


    Nevertheless, it was eye-catching to see her exining her situation assuredly without being overwhelmed, and his heart started to shake because of her words.


    I should be relieved for that.


    T/n: He is stating that for her confidence and boldness despite her weak body.


    With her words, Ricardas report, which came at the right timing, quickly caught mothers eyes. However, for some reason, mother tried not to ept the child easily.


    A condition to pick flowers; to a child who looked as if she has never been outside the gate?


    Lennox questioned his mothers condition momentarily.


    For a child who would even fall by a sudden storm, that must be a ridiculous condition.


    No. I heard that she cleared the forest path awhile ago.


    It was notpletely hopeless. I recalled that an institution in the capital city had bought some magical flowers to decorate the new path.


    Mother seems to like that child. Does she want to test her?


    Even so, I was worried that it would be too harsh.


    Outside the gates, she will be able to find flowers soon if she follows the cleanly well-organized path.


    Still, the weather was cold outside, and the childs condition was ridiculous, so Lennox wanted the child to give up. However, the child epted the conditions without hesitation.


    Though it would be scary, I thought she was quite brave to agree to go and pick flowers, saying she would meet mothers demand.


    However, contrary to the momentum, she did not know the way to the gate, and she was shivering in the cold, which made me unable to send the child alone.


    Ricardas voice flowed, saying, What the hell is wrong with you, brother?.


    But, Lennox ignored those words and searched for something that could warm the childs body even a little.


    The child didnt give up, and although she was eventually lost, she wandered alone in the dark forest and finally found a red flower, with all the wounds on her body.


    When he saw the child, who seemed to stop breathing, naturally, a curse came out of his mouth.


    Lennox unwittingly held the child in his arms, ran in the woods, and headed for the hidden mansion.


    After learning that Lennox had returned home, Chloe and Ricarda also returned there and could not hide their shock at Daphnes sight, who was dying.


    how did this happen?


    I think while looking for the flowers she fell somewhere. She wandered through the forest.


    For some reason, his hands kept trembling while he was talking. Even though he had seen far more wounds than this childs, Lennox could not stop his trembling hands.


    Chloe hid her embarrassed eyes and calmly looked at Daphnes condition. Her gaze turned to Daphnes sore leg and then she saw all the wounds on her body, and atst, she looked at the red flower held in her hands.


    It was only then that Chloe confronted how much pain the child had suffered from her conditions.


    She couldnt understand the past her who thought this child could handle that much.


    I thought it was reasonable whye now?


    Is it this way I regret it?


    Why did she give her such an option, even though she knew that the childs state wasnt good?


    It was as if I was possessed to do it.


    Otherwise, I wouldnt have made that delicate child go into the forest in the middle of the night.


    However, even if I deny it with all my might, there urred no miracle for the injured child to be fine.


    Faced with that, Chloe closed her eyes tightly.


    Its the worst.


    A sense of shame that was beyond description struck her.


    Only then did Chloe remembered Daphnes eyes.


    Those eyes that were desperate to live.


    It wasnt until Daphnes appearance reflected herself as a child that Chloe admitted to her iprehensible cruel mistakes.


    She breathed in a sigh and spoke words of regret.


    Ive done something too harsh to this kid Ricarda.


    Yes, mother. Shall I treat her?


    Thats a request.


    Eventually, with a sigh of regret that she couldnt swallow, she gave her permission. After receiving permission, Ricarda quickly took Daphne to his vacancy and began treatment. From the bruises on the body to the swollen legs, It took almost a day to pour out mana before showing a slight improvement.


    The treatment progress led to thepletion of primary treatments such as splinting or bandaging.


    When he was done with that, Ricarda got up from his seat exhausted.


    Strangely, it consumes so much mana. It seems like this childs body rejects the mana.


    Ricarda shook his head, but he did not want to give up.


    I have to find a better way. The way to treat her efficiently.


    Seeing the child struggling to breathe, Chloe couldnt resist the disgust at the regret that enveloped her. Even so, she couldnt leave the childs side.


    Lennox, too, could not leave the childs side because he remembered how energetic she was, unlike a child, even when she was shivering in the cold.


    Even Ricarda, exhausted, fell asleep next to the child.


    It was the day when the four people gathered together in that little room for the first time to be a family.


    * * *


    Daphnes mouth began to leak a sobbing sound mixed with sorrow.


    Sa- save.


    I dont want to die


    I- I dont want!


    Daphne began to have nightmares.


    Seeing Daphne crying for her life, Ricarda, whoined about his tiredness couldnt leave her side. He appeared to be in deep thought with his sunken eyes because of the continuous rejuvenation magic.


    Lennox earnestly whispered as if he was casting a spell that it was okay and that he would not let her die.


    Ricarda didnt leave her side, saying he would develop a magic trick to expel nightmares.


    Mom dont die


    When Daphne found her mother in a nightmare, Chloe put off all her work and stepped forward, holding Daphne in her arms and patting her back.


    The patting and soft whispering did not stop until Daphne stopped crying, expelled the fear of her dreams, and fell asleepfortably.


    Was it because of Chloes voice and stable pat, or did regr heartbeats stabilize her?


    Fortunately, Daphne was able to escape from her nightmare and fall asleep.


    * * *


    Daphne woke up.


    Lennox abandoned what he had been doing to Ricardas joyful voice and ran into Daphnes room.


    Chloe, who had been quietly working, ran as soon as she heard the news, with a fountain pen in her hand and arrived in the room.


    She remembered the face of Daphne, who looked at her hair color with her round eyes and said that her mother had taken her hair color for her.


    How can a child go through such a thing and say a sweet thing?


    Her appearance saddened Chloe even more.


    Lennox thought Daphne was a smart child who could find her path to future.


    Boo hooo-


    However, as he overheard Daphnes crying alone in the room, Lennox realized he was wrong.


    While he went to the kitchen and returned with porridge and medicines to eat on a tray, Daphne was crying as if she was trying to shake off her sadness away.


    It was not until she was left alone that she felt relieved and burst into tears.


    Lennox, looking down at the hot porridge, decided to stand still and wait until the cry was over.


    And beside him, Ricarda also sat down and listened to the cry.


    Chloe also stopped trying to put the cigarette to the pipe with hesitation and quietly put it in her pocket again.


    I guess shes finally relieved.


    At Lennoxs words, Ricarda nodded.


    Shes still a child.


    Yesterday, she said shes seven years old.


    A 7-year-old kid is hiding like that and crying out of breath?


    At Ricardas question, Chloe put a sad smile around her mouth.


    If you look at that child, you can learn about the environment in which she grew up. Daphne.


    She must have been living in a more severe environment than we imagined.


    At first nce, Daphnes words may not have been exaggerated.


    When Chloe said that it would have been worse than that, Ricardas expression was full of worry.


    Are you going to take that child as a sessor?


    In response to Lennoxs question, Chloe spoke firmly without changing her expression.


    Of course, since Daphne risked her life and kept the conditions, so I have to keep the promise too.


    Chloe smiled bitterly as she looked down the ss jar in her hand.


    Although the conditions I brought out must have been challenging, Daphne fulfilled the requirements adequately. And above all, that poor child risked her life to bring me a present.


    No matter how cold she was, she instinctively felt that she would not let go of this child who was already engraved in her heart.


    And I really like Daphne. Did you see those eyes? It was like looking at my childhood.


    Chloeughed deliberately to turn on the grave situation.


    I think shell do things smartly like me.


    Brother and I dont know when mother was young.


    Behind Chloes proud voice, Ricardas grunting voice came out.


    Lennox smiled as he watched the two, who naturally began to quarrel.


    Less than a week has passed since she arrived, but Daphne was already seeping into the lives of the three.


    * * *


    The first time we spent together,


    Lennoxs affection has poisoned Daphne.


    After hearing Daphnes words not to be friendly, Lennox regretted leaving quietly.


    I was like a hedgehog. Phew, I didnt want to leave like that.


    Daphne must have been nervous, but I couldnt say anything like a fool.


    Youre a fool.


    Well, its only been a few days since we met. Daphne has lived in a harsh ce until now; thats why it must have been hard for her to believe us.


    So I should have answered her quickly.


    Lennox med himself for not answering quickly and tried to ask Daphne for permission to let him treat her well the next day.


    But why the hell Im getting busy suddenly?


    Lennox managed to calm down his irritation that came with the feeling of being tangled with work.


    But when he barely got back from work, Daphne who was already asleep was still suffering from her nightmares.


    Im sorry, Daphne. You said you didnt like this, but Ill excuse myself.


    When Daphnes appearance was not stable despite the patting, Lennox overcame his exhausted body and hugged Daphne.


    And he patted her back regrly, humming lowly the luby he had once heard.


    The luby continued until her harsh breathing calmed down.

 Chapter 17

    She finally fell asleep.


    Daphnes breathing, which escaped the nightmare, stabilized. At the sound of Daphnes breath, Lennox sighed and stopped the luby.


    However, the patting didnt stop, and Ricarda, who was staring at him,ughed.


    Youre almost done being a big brother now! I wish you couldve done that for me too.


    You were already a grown-up when you were ten.


    Its gross.


    Ricarda acted as if the words had sincerely hurt him.


    Cant you be nice to me, too?


    I thought I was friendly enough.


    Oh~ if Ricarda of the past hears it, I think hes going to run out calling it nonsense?


    At Ricardas voice full ofughter, Lennox finally managed to form a smile. Still, his expression was not good, so Ricarda, who was staring at Lennox, asked.


    Hyung, did something happen?


    nothing.


    Just by looking at your face, I can see something is troubling you. By chance, is it because you heard from Daphne not to be friendly?


    ..


    When Lennox questioned him about how he knew it, Ricarda thought it was as he expected and slightly raised the corner of his mouth.


    She said it to me too. Our Daphne did. (Ricarda)


    were we burdensome to her? (Lennox)


    Its probably because she doesnt believe us yet. (Ricarda)


    You have to understand. If I were Daphne, I would have done the same. (Ricarda)


    Im not ming Daphne. Im ming myself for not giving her answer right away. (Lennox)


    At Lennoxs words, Ricarda looked appalled, thinking if he really did it.


    AhI mean.


    Hyung, Im disappointed. You shouldve answered her right away and gave her a pat telling her not to be nervous.


    I was going to tell her today. I was going to ask her permission to allow me to be friendly to her


    Arent you an idiot? Do you express that in words?


    Ricarda crumpled his face saying it wasnt the right way. Lennox tried to raise his voice as if he were agitated but soon shut his mouth at the sound of Daphne tossing and turning.


    Pff-.


    When Ricardaughed at the sight, Lennox red at him, but Ricarda didnt stop hisughing.


    Why? You dont like our youngest being greedy? I like the youngest, even if she is greedy.


    Did Daphne say that?


    Yes, she said she didnt want to lose the affection she receives because she was greedy.


    As Ricardas exnation continued, Lennox grabbed his head because he felt his head throbbing for some reason.


    I didnt know Daphne thought like that.


    What if she is greedy?


    I had the confidence to give all the affection and not receive any in return. She was a child who had already entered the line of our family.


    However, for Daphne, who had no family, all these moments were unfamiliar and scary.


    She must have said it because she was afraid that she would be hated.


    Lennox heaved a sigh.


    I felt ufortable because I couldnt see the heart that Daphne wanted to hide.


    That cant be true. Daphne can have a lot of greed. No, I hope she is full of greed.


    Then you could say that. Why couldnt you say that like a fool?


    Youre getting cocky to your brother?


    Lennox, who was still listening to the teasing voice, raised the corner of his mouth and sneered.


    No,e to think of it, perhaps the reason Daphne was burdened with us was because you kept forcing her to call yourself Oppa.


    When Lennox sneered and med Ricarda, he jumped up from the floor feeling that he was falsely used.


    No, why! Cant I call myself Oppa if Im an Oppa!


    Do you know that your forehead slightly frowned every time you emphasized that you are Oppa?


    seriously?


    Im serious.


    Somehow Ricardas reaction was solemn.


    When Lennoxughed at the look that he never knew existed, Ricarda, who felt unfair, sat back down and grumbled again.


    But, thats the way it feels to be a little more like a family.


    family?


    Yes, family. Because Daphne doesnt know what to call us, I wanted to let her know that Im her brother and that Im someone whos going to be her family.


    was it like that?


    As soon as she woke up, it felt like she was hesitating about what to say to mother.


    Ricarda said sullenly.


    When I was ten years old before I came here, I was raised by my father. I really hated that time.


    It was the first time he heard it, so when Lennox looked surprised, Ricarda smiled bitterly.


    Because my father always ignored me as useless. It wasnt to the extent of Daphne, but I got beating to some limit.


    I didnt know


    You didnt know it, because I never told you. I didnt say it because Hyung is soft-hearted.


    Even though he was his brother, Lennox was unsure what expression to make like to the past he heard for the first time.


    When I came searching for mother, there was an elder brother above me, and he didnt even introduce himself first, and he didnt ask me to call him brother.


    A sigh ofughter flowed from Ricardas mouth.


    Thats why I wanted to let her know that she can call me Oppa.


    Ricarda grinned, hiding his disappointment.


    I wanted to let her know that its okay to call me that because were family. But now, Ill have to control that because Daphne hates it.


    I didnt know you thought so Ask Daper. Maybe shes thinking the same thing as you.


    Well, I guess so!


    Ricarda smiled brightly like he had never been sullen.


    Daphnes appearance was more noticeable to him because he had been abused by his father when he was young. Ricarda ovepped his young verse with Daphne, who was struggling to live.


    I heard itte, but she said she wanted to change her fate, so she came here herself.


    Like me when I was young.


    I didnt want to live like a ve under my father, so ready to be beaten, I came looking for my Mother.


    Ricarda could understand Daphne more than anyone else.


    I wanted to make this child happy, just as he came here and became happy.


    Lennox had never experienced such a thing, so he never knew Daphnes mindpletely. But now he could see it clearly.


    Ricarda, even Lennox himself, and his mother, who only came back homete at night after the works done for Daphne, were all sincere.


    Thats because, after work, she was also already preparing to get together in this room.


    Strangely, if your heart keeps on fluttering, you can think of it as fate, and we can take care of you.


    That way, If you open your heart like that and be a family, we can make each other happy.


    Lennox grinned, seeing his mother standing in front of the door, not even knowing when she had returned home.


    Then he handed Daphne over to his mother, who, as soon as their eyes meet, opened her arms as if she had waited.


    I could hear a little whining as if Daphne was waiting for Mother to be stabilized, so I was a little disappointed.


    Have you taken care of all the urgent matters?


    Enough for me to stay at home for a few days.


    Thought his gaze grew heavy, a smile formed around his mouth.


    Even though she was tired, Chloe, Lennox, and Ricarda smiled as they were happy to see Daphne.


    Thats not like a mother.


    At first nce, it seemed to be ming, but Chloe carefully ced Daphne on the bed with a smile.


    Then Lennoxs gaze turned to the bag near the bed, and he asked Chloe,


    So, what did you decide to do with the seal? Did you take it separately?


    An unusual seal was found while looking through a bag. The first person to discover it was Chloe, who had been fiddling with the seal for a long time, and in the end, put it back to the bag, not knowing how to handle it.


    To the question, Chloe answered as if it were nothing.


    Daphne wanted to leave it as ast resort, so I should pretend I didnt find out. How admirable it is not to put everything as amodity for a deal.


    You dont really look like our Mother. Youre so sweet! Where did you sell our Mother?


    Lennox was startled by Ricardas rising voice and red at him, asking him to be quiet.


    Chloe smiled as she watched the two brothers bickering with each other.


    After meticulously covering Daphne with a nket, she who was still smiling said,


    Do you know that youre not like yourself too? I cant believe my sons were so friendly.


    Its an exception to our Daphne.


    Me, too.


    Oh my, you good-for-nothing kids.


    The room heated with natural bickering. The room was very warm.


    ***


    Daphne, who woke up when she was in Lennoxs arms, listened to all their conversations without even waking up.


    You really meant it.


    Mother, Lennox, and Ricarda, they were taking me seriously.


    I didnt expect you to pretend you didnt know the seal. I didnt even know that and used thorns to them like a hedgehog.


    When I knew that both kindness and consideration were sincere, I felt something filling in my heart.


    Suddenly, I remembered what Mother said.


    She said, our rtionship was different and special from others, but we would make a better and good rtionship than them.


    Did she slowly open her heart to me from then on?


    Was I a person who could receive such affection?


    I tossed and turned in a fit of shame that came in.


    When I turned around, I felt a hand that patted me. I never expected to receive such affection in this ce.


    I pretended not to know their affection for me, but now I realized it was already in my heart.


    This affection was already melting into my heart.


    It was so warm and full of happiness.


    Is it okay for me to be a little happy?


    Is it okay to be happy even though Im the daughter of a wicked woman?


    Things that had been rationalized by the wicked womans daughter began to fade little by little from some point on.


    Now, I had a feeling that I could write a new story as Daphne, not the daughter of a wicked woman.


    I want to be happy. If thats okay, I want to be happy with them.


    Even if they were entangled in a deal, with them who were more sincere than me,


    I want to be happy.


    If its okay to be happy


    If so, I want to convey affectionate feelings to these people who will be my family, just as they let me have it.


    The first, gentle humming, regr patting touch, warm room temperature, and cozy nkets that I received,


    And a heart filled with happiness.


    With all thesebined, I felt like I could have a good dream today.

 Chapter 18

    Blink Blink


    Was what I heard yesterday true?


    Perhaps it was a dream about what I was hoping for.


    I dont know if this memory of sneaking a peek at the innermost thoughts of the three was a dream or reality but,


    I wish itwasnt a dream.


    Because it was so rare for me to feel happy these days that everything felt like a dream and that troubled me.


    But it might still be a dream, so just in case, should I ask them?


    Why are you so sincere and kind to me?


    Am I bothering you?


    I heaved a sigh from the morning and crumpled the nket.


    If I think of this as a contract, I feel relieved.


    This strange feeling beyond the contract shakes my heart back and forth.


    With such aplicated thought, I sat still on the bed and waited for the people toe in.


    Knock knock-


    Baby, did you wake up?


    Yes!


    Ah. I was a little surprised because it was the first time that mother came to visit me first.


    When I was shocked and dismal, my motherughed at my voice and wiped my face with a wet towel, just as Lennox and Ricarda had done.


    Did you have a good dream?


    I dont know. I dont think I had a dream.


    I remembered thest night I had forgotten for a while.


    The words that were affectionate, kind, and yet full of sincerity that seemed to consider me as a family.


    Can I believe it? This kind of unconditional affection?


    No, can I give up on this affection?


    I just thought quietly, but I couldnt figure out why; my eyes suddenly started to get blurred.


    Unknowingly, tears filled my eyes. When I tried to wipe it off in embarrassment, my mother blocked my hand and wiped it gently instead.


    Shh. Its okay, its okay.


    HeugHg.


    Likest night, my mother held me in her arms and patted me back tofort me.


    In the end, I shed tears that I was trying to endure.


    I could see my mothers shoulders in front of me getting wet, but even if I tried to stop, it kept on falling.


    Heug- mother, Lennox, and even Ricarda why do you all treat me so well?


    Ah, I didnt want to ask


    I couldnt see anything because my tears blocked my vision in front of me. After throwing my words at her, I was afraid to see her reaction.


    What if she dislikes me for asking that question?


    What if you stare at me with a cold stare?


    What if that affectionate eye turns into contempt?


    If that happens, I really wont be able to withstand it.


    I buried my head on my mothers shoulder and tried to hold back my tears.


    It was just a slip of the tongue. I wasnt curious about that either.


    Im satisfied with the situation now.


    I was going to say that.


    Saying it was fine, my mother didnt stop patting me on the back.


    Baby, Ive prepared a present for you. Shall we go and see it?


    He- Heug, Yes?


    What do you mean by the present?


    With my eyes filled with tears, I couldnt think about anything, so I had no choice but to keep my head down.


    With a continuous patting, mother went upstairs and passed by the office, opening the door next to it.


    Baby, will you raise your head?


    No, I dont want to be seen crying.


    My motherughed a little at my whining and picked me up again; she slowly began to go around the room.


    Look here, this is your new bed. It belongs to you.


    heug- yeah?


    Surprised by the remark, I turned my head and saw arge bed with a soft, light purple bedding.


    uh- I.


    As I stammered with embarrassment, mother did not stop and stepped back to the side.


    Here, this is your closet, and there are plenty of clothes for you to wear in the future, so you can wear what you want to wear.


    What is this?


    What should I show you this time? Oh, you cant use it yet, but I also prepared a dressing table, and a doll just in case you want it.


    At the end of my mothers words, I slowly moved my head and looked into the room.


    Warm sunlight wasing through the curtains in front of therge window.


    A room with bright sunlight, a bed that looks cozy, and many dolls on top of it.


    There was arge closet, a small desk that fits my size, a small tea table, a chair, and a sofa.


    It was so clear that it was designed to suit me, unlike where I slept a little while ago.


    Thats right, Lennox said she would prepare my room.


    Now that I could finally hold back my tears, I remembered the words Lennox had said as a secret.


    Are you surprised? I secretly prepared it. Its been a long time since Ive decorated a room like this, so I enjoyed it, too. I hope you like it.


    I love it.


    I was speechless, but I said thank you out of my mouth because it was something I really wanted to say.


    Its really, really great


    I was so happy that I couldnt control my joy, and my eyes were filled with tears again.


    Why cry if you like it? If you keep crying, your eyes will hurt.


    My mothers touch on my eyes was colder than I thought. However, the gentle swept as if to cool down my eyes, felt warmer because it touched my heart.


    Why, why do you treat me so well?


    Why are you being so nice to me?


    Because its so sweet, this sounds like a lie. I thought I could be happy if you just give me enough for me to live. If I receive all these affections, I might get greedy.


    Cant I do that?


    I nodded to the soft voice.


    At my nod, she asked me.


    Why not?


    Because I have a lot of greed. What should I do if youe to hate me again? No, Im not saying you dont like me now, but


    The more I did, the more my words began to get tangled. If this would be the case, Id rather not start talking.


    Was it burdensome to be nice to you? What if you didnt like it?


    Mothers expression became a little serious.


    I shook my head right away.


    No, it was good. But its my first time receiving something like this. Honestly, Im scared that you will abandon me saying you dislike me.


    If she throws me away by saying she changed her mind,


    After the affection I received like this disappears, I will have no confidence to endure it.


    I managed to speak out my words and buried my head on my mothers shoulder.


    So, you need a reason for me to treat you like this.


    ..


    For the right reason. All right, Im confident in convincing you. Daphne, do you want your child to live the same life as youter?


    Despite the sudden question, I shook my head firmly.


    No, absolutely not.


    Right? So am I.


    mother too?


    I really came up to this position with my teeth clenched. To live. Ive walked a path thats hard enough not to be rich. But the child who will be my daughter lives the same life as me?


    Her expression reflected seriousness.


    Thats nonsense. I dont want to give my own children any shortage. Whether its affection, money, stuff, or whatever.


    ..


    You are my daughter and my child. You started this rtionship, but as an adult, its my responsibility to carry on. So all you have to do is receive it.


    What am I supposed to do, then?


    My mother grinned at my curiosity.


    You just need to grow up. Stay healthy, do what you want to do, enjoy what you want to enjoy, and live happily.


    It was a warm word I never dared to dream of.


    And so that you can achieve what you want. You just need to grow up like that.


    It was my mothers wish when she was a child, and it was also the wish of me who became her child.


    At those heartfelt words, I felt a door that had been tightly shut in my heart slowly open up.


    Can I try believing it? This affection that you give me unconditionally? Everything?


    They were the first ones to be kind to me, so wouldnt it be okay to believe them if they say they were sincere?


    They have a goal, and I also have a goal.


    They share their journey to the goal, and they also said that they consider me as a family.


    I dont have to refuse any more.


    And most of all.


    Ive already realized this affection, and I dont think Ive any confidence to give up on this now. I raised my head and looked straight at my mother, not avoiding her eyes.


    I have my first wish.


    Is that so? I wonder what it is.


    The moment my mothers red eyes met my golden eyes,


    I smiled broadly at the warm feeling that came in.


    Can I call you Mom?


    is that your first wish?


    Yes


    Its a good enough title to call without even making a wish.


    Mother didnt seem to like my wish. Yet, I didnt break my stubbornness.


    My first wish is to call you mom. You said youd let me start the rtionship.


    yes, if you want to. All right, Ill grant your first wish.


    And theres a second.


    I guess she didnt know that I would tell my wish right away.


    Mom seemed a little surprised, but she waited for me to talk.


    I want to learn how to write.


    If its writing, of course, you should learn. I was going to let you do that, too.


    From my mom.


    At my words, my mom blinked and burst intoughter as if she was happy.


    Really? Did you want to learn from your mom?


    Yes.


    I felt a little embarrassed, so I avoided the eyes I was seeing and hugged my mother again. The sound of Moms heart was a little louder than before. And my heartbeat was also a little faster than before.


    I wanted my mom to be happy as much as I was, and I tightly embraced Chloe, who will be my new mom.


    Will you grant me my wish?


    Of course, but lets forget about the second wish.


    What? Why?


    I wanted to do it even if it wasnt a wish.


    In theughter that came out, joy oozed through.


    At some point, behind us were Lennox and Ricarda who hade in.


    Ricarda, who was staring at us, smiled broadly and ran and hugged Mom and me tightly.


    Our daphne, why are you so cute!


    Lennox, who was next to him, came up and hugged the three of us tightly.


    Daphne, I dont mind if youre greedy. Since Im an older brother who can listen to his younger sisters wishes.


    Lennox cleared his throat as if he was embarrassed and continued his words.


    I can do that for my family. Dont worry too much.


    Lennox looked bitter, saying he was sorry he couldnt answer me right awayst time.


    I lifted the gloomy-looking corner of Lennoxs mouth slightly up.


    Lennox looks good when he is smiling.


    At my beckoning, Lennox put a nk look on his face for a moment and soon smiled broadly.


    And the title Oppa is so awkward. Ive never called it before, so Ill call it when Im ready.


    Our youngest is so cute that I cant help it.


    In my words, Lennox smiled and hugged us like Ricarda.


    Ill try my best to be happy.


    At my words, everyone said thats all I needed to do and didnt hide their smile.


    A bitterly cold winter was approaching, but I was convinced it would be a particrly warm winter.

 Chapter 19

    Since the day I cried in my mothers arms, my family has not gone out beyond necessity from the forest house.


    It was because of Ricardas opinion that I could be lonely.


    In that opinion, my mother dered that she woulde home and finish it when she had enough work left to work overtime.


    The same was true for Lennox and Ricarda.


    My day has not changed much since I woke up. I wake up in the morning and say hello to my family in a friendly way. After receiving Ricardas treatment, I eat breakfast, then take my medicine, and atst, see my family off.


    I also study hard for the writing that my mom gives me as my homework.


    My family doesnt want to leave me alone.


    Mom, Lennox, and Ricarda all took turns to be my guardians of the day one by one.


    Sometimes it seemed to me that there was a bit of a fight going on with this.


    When I remembered Ricardas faceining that it was his turn to go to work, Iughed out loud.


    The trembling corners of my mouth were awkward, but I think my smile has gotten more natural than before.


    Looking at the mirror in the Oval Office, I thought to myself, nodded, and focused on my homework again.


    It was already past ten p.m.


    Its usually my bedtime.


    While scribbling, I thought of todays day.


    The cocoa made by Ricarda and Lennox coffee were side by side, so I was confused and drank the coffee all the way.


    And both of them were scolded by mother.


    Because Lennox had a cup of coffee next to cocoa, Ricarda couldnt tell the difference between cocoa and coffee and handed it over.


    Both looked upset, but I was immediately surprised to hear that my heart was beating fast.


    They almost went wild again thinking whether or not they fed me a poison.


    As I recalled these days, everything was fun, so my lips kept shaking.


    Naturally, my body, which wasnt resistant to caffeine, continued to make my heart pound.


    Eventually, I couldnt sleep at night, so I was studying together in my mothers office until a while ago.


    Its been a while since she went by clock saying that she had to hurry over to the Merchants group in the capital.


    Its good to have a pleasant thought, but after looking back at the clock and homework, my neck got a little stiff.


    Ah, this is confusing. Ill ask mom when shees.


    I drew stars next to the confusing letters and then wrote down the next word.


    After studying for a long time, the clock suddenly began to shine.


    When someone arrived, the magic attached to the watch shone, so I thought that my mom had returned and raised my head.


    You are bac


    But my words didntst long.


    It wasnt Mom that popped out of the clock.


    A slender figure dressed in ck appeared along with a small figure.


    Without knowing the situation at the moment, I realized that I had forgotten what role my ce was ying.


    Instinct said.


    This is the moment when the male protagonist from the second part of the novel appears.


    But howe there are two?


    Come to think of it, I couldnt tell who the male lead was because there were few descriptions of his childhood appearance.


    Which one is it?


    Even the lights in the room were turned off, and only themps around the desk were turned on, so I could not see their faces in detail.


    They used to say that when the protagonist was a boy, his appearance was very peculiar. I think they said he wasnt human.


    No matter how hard I tried, I couldnt remember the details of his appearance.


    I remember being frustrated because there was no detailed description until the end of the story.


    Wait, isnt this a dangerous situation?


    I could see that the tallest of the two was looking at me then hesitating.


    You tried to run without hesitation, but you stopped as soon as you saw me?


    Clearly the male protagonist was caught trying to kill his mother.


    I also stared at them nkly, grasping the situation and hardening my expression.


    In the meantime, they flew back this way as if they had finished organizing their thoughts.


    Is this the male lead?


    It seemed that the story was correct seeing him throw his body to attack.


    Despite the priority that the attack should be avoided, I couldnt do anything.


    I couldnt move by myself because I hurt my leg.


    If they were determined to kill and attack properly, it would be inevitable.


    Why is it today of all days?


    Usually, its time to sleep. But today was a little different from usual. The day Im awake.


    There were also mistakes by Lennox and Ricarda that they wouldnt normally do, and mother rushed out unexpectedly.


    As if it was trying to force me into the flow of this story.


    Isnt something weird?


    But before I could even think about it, one of the two reached me.


    The man who caught me threw me back without giving me time to struggle.


    I forced myself down to the floor and fell with a thud.


    Ah!


    When I let out a painful groan after I fell and hit my back, the person who seemed to be a man grabbed my neck and lifted me.


    When I was lifted with the weight on my back, the clothes tightened my throat, and I began to choke.


    Who are you? Wheres the Guild Master (1) ?


    Ugh!


    Of course, I had no intention to answer, but this man seems to have forgotten that he was holding my neck.


    I exhaled roughly as if I were forced to squeeze out my narrow breathing hole.


    The less I answered, the more nervously the man looked back.


    The smaller figure next to the man stood quietly staring at us.


    At first nce, he looked like a tall boy. However, I couldnt see well because it was dark, and most of all, I couldnt afford to look at him because the front became blurry.


    Keuc-.


    Damn it! First Ill start by killing you!


    The man who lifted me started to hurry up as if he was scared of something and pulled something out of his arms.


    What he took out sparkled in the light of themp on the ceiling of the Oval Office.


    I could know what it was, even when my vision was blurred.


    It must be a sharp weapon like a knife.


    Let-.


    I wanted to scream, Let go of me, let go right away, but my voice didnte out. I was suffocating while my vision was getting blurred, and I felt like I was going out of breath


    Once again, I began to stop thinking about death as soon as it came to me.


    As I began to lose consciousness and my front faded away, a small figure in the distance could be seen slowly moving away.


    The man who grabbed me loosened his grip on me as if he were relieved.


    I shook and struggled as much as I could, thinking it was myst chance in the faint burst of a breath.


    What, you, you little girl!


    The man panicked and dropped his weapon as if he had never thought I would rebel.


    Rough breath came out of the air, which was rapidly climbing in my neck.


    I shouted desperately as the man reached out his hand, trying to get me again in a hurry.


    Mom! Lennox! Ricarda!!!


    I screamed so desperately that Ive never raised my voice this high in my life.


    Save me!!!


    The embarrassed man lifted me up again as I kept calling my mom and brothers with a rough cough.


    As he tried to tighten my neck with his hands as if he would kill me by strangling in a hurry, the door of the office suddenly opened roughly.


    The first one toe in was Ricarda, followed by Lennox.


    Perhaps because I was strangled, I kept coughing.


    Two people were seen flinching at the clinking sound.


    Embarrassed at the sight of the two, the man held back the weapon he had dropped with his arms wrapped around my neck and backed away.


    Stay away, donte near me!


    What the hell are you doing?


    Unlike usual, Ricarda and Lennoxs eyes were fierce. As if he never expected those fierce eyes on their faces, the man seemed to shrink.


    But soon he pulled me further and warned them.


    I told you not toe near.


    Is the guy like him the male protagonist? A jerk like him?


    By the time I had a suspicious thought, the Magic circle had begun to unfold from Ricardas hand.


    The splendid spread of the Magic circle turned to the man who was holding me, and his hands and feet were tied to a chain that suddenly leaped out of the air.


    Wha- whats this?!


    Lennox, who popped out the moment I fell to the ground after being released from the mans arm, safely epted me.


    Phew.


    At the same time as he exhaled a sigh of relief, a small figure who had only been standing awkwardly in the middle suddenly moved his body.


    Unlike those who were bound to me, he rushed to Ricarda without hesitation, lightly floating his small body into the air.


    Unaware of his presence, startled Ricarda disyed reflexive magic.


    In the end, the little boy was equally bound by chains that popped out of the air.


    Heuk- what is it? I didnt even know it was there.


    Are you all right, Daphne?


    While Ricarda calmed down his startled chest, Lennox looked at my condition with an expression of concern.


    The moment Lennoxs gaze reached my neck, his expression hardened as before.


    Ricarda approached us with a sigh as he looked at the two who were tied up.


    Its dangerous!


    And at that moment, the little boy broke the chains that entangled him.


    It happened so quickly.


    He stepped on the broken chain and started to rush to us.


    When he thought my cries were a stepte, he passed us and jumped lightly and cut off the neck of his captivepanion at once.


    The man who had threatened me until a while ago died so easily.


    Blood scattered on the floor, and the mans life disappeared so easily.


    It was a moment you couldnt even scream at the scene, slowly passing like slow motion.


    After killing his colleague, he turned around without hesitation, rushing to us without even stopping to wipe the scattered blood.


    And then, suddenly, the white smoke that appeared in the air tied his neck, arms and legs to the ceiling.


    Do you dare know where this ce is, for assassins like you toe in at your will!?


    Mother!


    Lennox and Ricarda were all in a daze when mom yelled.


    Mom also arrived, and seeing everyone together, I should have been relieved, but strangely my body trembled.


    It was my second time to see the dead body, but not knowing that the moment of death would be this cruel, my body stiffened.


    Lennox, who noticed that, took care of me and turned my head.


    Only then did the bodies disappear from my sight, and everyone was seen safe.


    My trembling body calmed down a little.


    It was not until I confirmed that everyone was safe and that I was safe that a sigh of relief came out.


    I slowly raised my head and looked up at the man tied to the ceiling.


    The face of a bright child was revealed in the hood that was stripped by smoke.


    The child was closing his eyes, and his ck hair stood out against his pale face.


    I lowered my gaze slowly.


    I could see round eyes with slightly raised ends. Perhaps because of my gaze, the child slowly opened his eyes.


    His stern face, without a single expression, and his eyes really drew the attention.


    I encountered beautiful purple eyes like Viceae(2).


    The area where the whites were supposed to be was all ck, and his pupil like a reptile shone quaintly.


    His appearance looked like a boy, but as if something had been added to him, there was a truly inhuman atmosphere.


    As soon as I saw those eyes, I could tell,


    That guy is the male protagonist of the second part.


    T/L Corner:

 Chapter 20

    I dont know who this guy is, but I need to kill him right now.


    Lennoxs voice, while hugging me, was very strange.


    He suppressed his anger with all his might while grinding his teeth.


    Theres a sign of drowsiness in Daphnes throat. I was thinking of killing them. I cant leave these guys alive.


    The ring eyes full of anger did not turn to me, but I could feel the arms holding me trembling as if to convey his anger.


    I agree. I dont care whos behind it. Anyway, everyone who is aiming after us are all the same. Kill him right now since we never know what hes going to do.


    iming that none of Lennoxs words were wrong, Ricarda spoke, ring at the boy who was tied to smoke.


    The re in his eyes, which was slightly visible, was full of anger.


    Like this youre going to kill him at once?


    Theres no way the story can flow like this.


    If the main character dies, If he dies so easily here, will the story be ruined?


    Should I stop him?


    In the midst of a mess in my head, my mother pulled down the boy, who was tied up in fog


    Yes, Mom wouldnt kill you. If the story flowed like the original, hes the one who was supposed to be the sessor so perhaps she will change her mind


    The beginning of the story cant be ruined like this.


    There is no way this story that forcibly pulled me in would be ruined in vain.


    Compared to the fear that Daphne had, you shouldnt kill him too easily.


    But as if to break my expectations, strange words popped out of my mothers mouth.


    An unfamiliar look, unfamiliar tone, and the unfamiliarity she was showing me was the appearance as the Guild Master of Benedito Merchants Group that I had forgotten for a while.


    As I was relieved that the story I knew would end as it is, I looked back unconsciously.


    Ugh.


    A bloody, terrible body was seen.


    It reminded me of the moment when my biological mother died.


    The moment when the cold arm fell weakly, the moment when she disappeared from the world so easily was still vivid.


    Im scared. Im scared of someone dying.


    Im scared because I feel like that its going to be me next.


    Im scared, thinking that I will disappear in a sh.


    I dont want to see the dead body.


    I leaned my face against Lennoxs arms, holding onto his clothes tightly.


    You cant


    Daphne?


    You cant kill people. Life is something precious. And he still looks like a child


    Its not a life that was born to disappear in such a short time.


    I also dont want to disappear one day like that.


    I just tried holding back the tears that seemed to flow on Lennoxs clothes.


    At one point, I thought maybe this revenge could end with someones death.


    Whether its my death or someone elses death.


    However, when I witnessed someone elses death right in front of my eyes, I regretted how foolish my thought was.


    To have the heart to kill someone, you must have the determination.


    I dont know what it was, but at least I wasnt prepared to have that determination yet.


    You werent born to disappear so easily. Dont kill him. Im scared.


    I tried to hold back my tears and tried to be unreasonable.


    Like a fool.


    Even though it was a good opportunity to end the story, I fled back because I feared death.


    Even if they point their finger at me for being stupid and frustrating, I cant help it.


    Yes, I said something scary in front of you.


    I thought it would be okay for them to me me by saying not to talk nonsense.


    But my mom hugged me, who was crying, saying that she was thinking for herself.


    Then she patted me on the back familiarly and said,


    Shh. If you cry like this, your eyes will swell up and hurt tomorrow.


    Im not crying. Im not such a crybaby.


    When I was sobbing out of sorrow for no reason, I heard a giggle sounding from the side.


    Right! These brothers must have scared you. Im sorry, Daphne.


    Were you scared? I knew Daphne had a big heart, but I didnt know it was this big! I should learn from her.


    Everyone didnt think I was stupid, but they took care of me, saying it was fine.


    Because of that warmth, I sniffled and looked behind my mother and made eye contact with the Male protagonist, a child who still seems to be a boy.


    His strange eyes gave me chills, and in it, I felt an unknown power of artificial feeling.


    Mom, his eyes are weird. It feels like theres something written on them.


    At my word, Ricarda approached the boy.


    While looking at the childs eyes for a while, Ricarda looked at his head and began unfolding a magic spell over the childs eyes.


    Several magic spells were raised simultaneously, and every time the magic reached and unfolded, the boy struggled with pain.


    As time went by for about a minute, the magic spell disappeared, and at the same time, the boys eyes became clear.


    However, the boy soon fainted as if he had lost consciousness.


    Daphne was right. There was hypnosis and hallucinatory magic, and it was so awfully intertwined.


    I thought he was too young for an assassin!


    Mom frowned at Ricardas words.


    Where did those jerks sell morality to?


    I stared at her with a dumbfounded look at the ng that rolled out of mothers mouth. She didnt stop spewing out all kinds of ng as if she didnt feel my gaze.


    All those punks who y with children have to havebeep-beep-beep. You absolutely cant kill them easily No, what am I saying right now?


    T/l corner: Dont ask me what she meant, since I dont know too xD


    The ng that was spouting out coolly stopped.


    Forgetting that I was sniffling, I slowly raised my head to look up at my mother.


    My mom intentionally covered my eyes, not making eye contact.


    Pretend you didnt hear it. Its not a good word.


    Yes.


    Thats right.


    Mom patted me on the head, saying I was well-behaved, and then told Lennox, who approached me.


    You remember the little prison made in the woods, right?


    The one made to catch wild animals? There is, but  Ah!


    Put him in. Even if he was hypnotized, an assassin is an assassin. Theres no harm in being careful.


    Lennox nodded, saying he would take care of it safely.


    Then Ill put a restraint spell. Since this happened, shall we find out whos behind this?


    Ill do it. I was making a confession inducer and thats great too.


    Yes, I will leave this up to you.


    Not only did they not kill someone, the appropriate coping also passed by easily.


    While being held in my mothers arms, I carefully thought about their work.


    It looks like people who work together are important.


    When I saw those three, I felt something was in sync.


    Seeing them handling things well with amon opinion and without a single conflict, I felt proud.


    This is my family.


    A family that I made myself and a family that cherishes me!


    The pat on my back still feels warm. The gaze towards me is also full of worries.


    I dont want to disappoint them. As much as I want to protect myself, I want to protect them.


    The story I knew had a very loose plot.


    As there were no side stories, the Benedito merchants groups story was not even mentioned briefly.


    Since this was the ce where the Male protagonist was, you might think that he got along well, but its still unknown


    He might have left the merchants group easily in the original to be happy with the heroine.


    Im going to change my story happily. Lets not forget this promise.


    So that the precious people around me can be happy together.


    I thought as I looked at the back of the male protagonist disappearing while being tied.


    To do that, part two has to be twisted. Since Im not confident in the killing lets be nice to the male protagonist.


    Ill stop the daughter of the Duke and Eunice to be happy as the female protagonist.


    I wont let them live in happiness.


    For my happiness. To protect me and my dear ones.


    Even though Im still afraid of everything, afraid to be in this world, Ill make it through. I must ovee everything I am scared of.


    On this fearful night, a new will rose in my eyes.


    * * *


    Inplete darkness, I was being chased by something.


    I moved my injured foot freely, and it didnt hurt even if I pinched my cheek, so I knew this was a dream.


    When I ran for a long time without knowing what I chased by, someone tried to catch me at that moment,


    I opened my eyes in a sh at the feeling of holding and shaking me.


    Gasp, Hyuk-


    My whole body was soaked in sweat as if I were running in reality.


    What was that?


    What the hell was that nightmare? Im not even sure what it is.


    I raised my hand to wipe out my wet forehead, and at that moment, someone wiped my forehead with a soft cloth.


    Of course, I thought it would be Lennox or Ricarda, but the shadow feeling was different.


    Isnt the shadow bigger than usual?


    When I turned my head with a face stained with embarrassment, a man I saw for the first time stood in front of me.


    Oh, I must have surprised you.


    Who?


    Youve never seen me since I woke up, have you? Im Winston Chasher, secretary of the Guild Master. Please call me Winston.


    Ah. Yes.


    Please speakfortably to me. Youre the one I need to serve.


    As I nodded at Winstons kind words, he bowed his head to say thank you.


    The guild master has to take care of yesterdays matter so shes got a lot of work. Its the same for Young masters too. So Ill take care of you for today.


    Ah! I see.


    Well, that happened yesterday.


    I nodded that I understood, and Winston who smiled at my words dragged a small tray in front of me.


    Young master Ricarda prepared the meal and went out. You should have your meal now.


    Im not hungry.


    Didnt you make an appointment with the Guild master? Saying you will have your meals regrly.


    please give it to me.


    I tried to ignore it, but when did you hear it from mother?


    I lifted the spoon in front of me with a wry expression.


    Thank you for the meal.


    You must chew it and eat well.


    It tastes good, but in the early morning, I didnt have an appetite, so I purposely began to eat slowly.


    Ill also prepare warm water for you.


    Winston smiled and took care of what was needed right away.


    Naturally, he put out a ss of water in front of me, and his hand looked awkward.


    It seems to be stiffened.


    Perhaps because he felt my gaze on him, Winston stealthily covered his hands as if he were familiar with my gaze.


    Youve never seen this before, have you? I dont know if its a little scary to show this to Miss. Its called the prosthetic arm.

 Chapter 21

    CH 21


    The prosthetic arm


    Its not something good for Miss to stare at it like that.


    But, its Winstons hand. Why is that so bad?


    Seeing it for the first time, I thought it was amazing, but I never thought it was scary.


    I turned my eyes from his hand and began to eat my soup again.


    However, his gaze that followed from the side did not leave. At the gaze that didnt leave me even when I finished my soup, I turned my head.


    Why are you staring at me like that?


    Miss, dont you find this hand gross?


    Its not gross.


    Thats unexpected. Usually, young children say they dont like to see this hand.


    I couldnt help but look at him with worry due to Winstons vain smile.


    Because Im not a child.


    ..is that so?


    Yes. I dont find it gross because Im not a child.


    But even grown-up adults get disgusted seeing my hand.


    At his words, I replied raising my eyebrows,


    Thats because theyre rude.


    yes. Youre right. They gave me that look without even hearing why I was wearing a prosthetic arm.


    Thats mean.


    if Miss doesnt mind, may I exin to you what caused me to wear a prosthetic arm?


    Suddenly?


    When I opened my eyes wide, Winston raised the sses he was wearing. The smiling eyes over the round sses looked good.


    I didnt know his reason, but I dont think he was someone who talked nonsense, so I nodded.


    It may be a little scary, but-


    I said no.


    At my immediate reply, Winstonughed as if he was happy to hear it.


    Then he folded up his sleeves and showed me the prosthetic arm attached to his wrist.


    A long time ago. Shall we start from the story when I first met the Guild Master? The guild master was still in her position of the sessor, and I was a petty thief.


    The story was older than I thought, and it sounds like a dark story.


    Is it okay to listen?


    It must be a very personal story, and that, to a kid he had seen for the first time


    But the thought quickly faded away.


    At that time, Mrs Chloe was taking a test to be the next Guild Master. The test that asked her to find her most precious thing in the capital.


    An interest suddenly arose in those words. As my eyes glistened, Winston burst into a smallugh as if he thought it was funny.


    When I tilted my head, he covered his mouth and started talking again, saying it was nothing.


    I robbed the Guild Masters wallet.


    really?


    Yes. After that, I was chased and got caught in vain.


    At that time, did Mom have the ability to be a smoke mage?


    Winston shook his head at my question.


    Of course. Since, I ran to death trying to avoid the smoke.


    thats amazing.


    I knew better than anyone that my mothers ability was amazing because I watched her abilities right in front of me.


    Im sure even in the past her ability was something amazing.


    I dont think he was a simple petty thief.


    At my suspicious gaze, he burst outughing again.


    You are looking at me with the same gaze the Guild Master made. She looked at me like that and then she said,


    What?


    Are you b*stard really just a petty thief?


    As expected, what I saw yesterday wasnt a lie.


    Come to think of it, even Moms rough mouth suits her.


    And then she forced me around to pay for it.


    Winston sighed quietly, saying it was hard.


    She also said, if I knew how hard it was to make money, I wouldnt do this again. She dragged me around and made me work hard.


    And?


    She gave me all the money in that wallet as a monthly sry. Then cheered me on to live a new life.


    Heughed out loud, saying it was thrilling, then he came to his senses and coughed.


    But, the head of the security forces, who learned of the facts, concluded that I had stolen the money and dragged me away. He said he would cut off the thiefs wrist.


    ..


    I naturally frowned upon hearing those words.


    Is that why his hands were like that?


    Seeing my face, he shook his head, saying that wasnt the case.


    It was because the leader was surrounded by scandals at that time, so he tried to make me the right prey and escape from it.


    Winstons expression changed from moment to moment and became more immersed.


    so?


    When he was about to drag me into the middle of the square and cut off my wrist, the Guild Master came up and told him that the money was my reasonably paid sry.


    I didnt understand.


    Mom was with him, so what exactly happened to his hand?


    Winstons face darkened a little after finishing his words.


    But he didnt believe it. He said that the foreign girl was fearless and drove Guild Master as mine aplice.


    Mom is probably not a foreigner.


    It had been a long time since she came back from abroad, so there was no way to prove it right away.


    Even I, who was listening to the situation which I didnt even see, became frustrated.


    When I hit my chest, he continued to fill the empty ss of water, telling me to calm down.


    That wasnt enough, so he made fun of the Guild Master. He said something vulgar with his dirty mouth. At the square where so many people gathered.


    As if recalling that day, Winston pressed his chest lightly.


    And then the Guild Master said, If he really did it, you can cut my wrist yourself.


    What nonsense


    Theres no such sophistry!


    Unfortunately, he didnt listen to the Guild Master but rather got angry that she confronted him.


    He was an ugly adult.


    I couldnt hold back my anger and started to fume.


    Otherwise, he threatened to cut off Guild Master wrist first. The feeling that came to me at that moment was I didnt want to see that happen to her.


    no way.


    I realized a lot during the time I spent with her.


    Winston closed his eyes and smiled sincerely.


    She was the one who gave me hope to live a new life. I didnt want to see her treated like that anymore.


    Winston had a relieved smile.


    So I cut my wrists myself.


    Winstons story was over.


    There must have been other ways


    Back then, I just didnt want to get her involved with my karma.


    He said so, cleaning up the empty dishes.


    However, he did not stop talking.


    When everyone was shouting, covering their eyes, swearing, the Guild Master punched the head of the security force in the face.


    with her fists?


    And then a security guard came running from far away. The man who came to know the identity of Guild Master was running to stop him at that moment.


    I cant believe he appeared after everything was over.


    This world was not friendly to him.


    Nevertheless, he smiled merrily.


    Doesnt Winston feel frustrated about losing the wrist?


    Is it because it happened a long time ago that his injustice died down?


    No, If it were me I wouldnt be able to let that go easily.


    So what the hell is it?


    The Guild master brought a doctor and a priest from the capital city to treat me.


    If it was Mom, she probably brought all the doctors and priests and put them in line to heal his wrist.


    But Im sure Winstons wrist wasnt healed.


    Even so, my wrist could not be restored. To someone like me, she handed me a prosthetic hand and apologized. Even though it wasnt her fault.


    He brought me a little pudding and put it in front of me. There was no awkwardness in all the actions of opening the lid kindly as if he was asking me to eat it for dessert.


    And she took me to the merchants group and said, I was the most precious treasure to her in the capital.


    oh


    Suddenly the way this is flowing


    I couldnt understand it, so when I looked at him with surprised eyes, heughed.


    Because someone you can trust to have next to you will always be a great treasure to you.


    then did Mom pass the test?


    She passed her test. She hired me since then, and its been 15 years since I started working as her secretary.


    Oh, that prosthetic arm wasnt an embarrassing and shameful w for Winston.


    It was the beginning of the life that he chose for himself. Thats why it wasnt unfair.


    It was our first time to meet today, but I wanted to tell you this in person. Just in case you might be wondering?


    He winked yfully.


    So I dont feel sorry for you nor for the scars on your legs.


    Winstons voice was solemn.


    But it didnt hurt me.


    Because it was something Miss chose herself, and thats why you are here. This moment itself has be the life you tried to make.


    While talking like that, he stared anxiously at the untouched pudding. It mightve been an unkind word for a child, but I rather liked it.


    It seemed like he was saying that he respects me.


    Winston.


    I think I can get along with Winston.


    Oh, I thought so, but I guess were on the same page.


    Winston took the pudding out of my hand with a friendly smile. Then he scooped it himself and brought it to my mouth.


    Then shall we start our rtionship with this pudding?


    why did the story go there?


    Im just offering you the meal the young master prepared. Please help me carry out all my duties.


    If you say that here, I have no choice but to ept it.


    With no choice left, I opened my mouth, and as if he was giving a bird feed, he put the floating pudding in my mouth.


    You seem to like sweets. The lunch snack is cocoa.


    As I was staring at the finished pudding bowl, I heard those words and my face was filled with disgust.


    Ugh


    Im sure I was told your favorite snack is cocoa thats why I should take good care of it. Am I wrong?


    Looking at him, who smiled mischievously saying that master Ricarda mistook, I nodded.


    Ricarda is the most confident when ites to cocoa. I hate it because its too sweet.


    And why couldnt Miss say that to him directly?


    Because he looked so excited when he made it


    As I heaved a sigh, he slowly turned his head away. Then suddenly, he trembled, and after a while, he turned to face me again.


    ?


    For a moment, I thought Id sneeze. Now, uh. thats fine.


    Youre going to be okay, right?


    I was going to ask him because he was still shaking, but he was faster to speak up.


    Youve finished your meal now. Is there somewhere you want to go?


    Can I go anywhere?


    Theres no ce you cant go here.


    Then I want to go to a little prison in the woods.


    Winston hesitated at my words and asked again with a serious look.


    Would you like to go there? Really?


    Yes. Really. Id like to meet that child.


    Winston, without hesitation, turned around and pulled something out of the corner of the closet.


    It was a wheelchair with a bunch of unknown devices.


    Thats strange. Im sure Ive got it ready for you to use right away, but theres no sign of use.


    Youve all deceived me.


    I heard it would take a long time to build my wheelchair.


    Why is my wheelchairing out of there?

 Chapter 22

    CH 22


    If he hadnt taken out my wheelchair right away


    Perhaps I would have reached out to Winston as I always did with them, and Winston would have asked me what was going on.


    Should I be relieved about this?


    Of course, I should be d.


    If I did, I would be embarrassedter when I found out about a wheelchairs existence.


    More than that why didnt they say anything about this?


    I felt they had gone too far by not letting me know the existence of this wheelchair. When this unknown sense of betrayal shook me, I heard the sound of someone standing beside me andughing. As I slowly looked up from my wheelchair, my eyes met Winston, who wasughing.


    Oh, Im sorry. Were you held on the arms of the family until now?


    As expected, he didnt be the secretary without reason. I dont know if he read my expression or not, but at the correct question, I nodded my head.


    yes.


    I guess they must have wanted to cherish you because youre small and fragile.


    At the words of Winston tofort me, I nodded.


    But you dont know yet how important is freedom for someone who can move alone. This Winston will provide you with that freedom.


    Winston said, pointing to himself in an exaggerated gesture. When I said I understood without refusing to ept the act of pride, Winston approached me.


    Alright, then. Excuse me, Miss.


    Then he held me in his arms.


    He looked pretty fragile.


    Surprised by the unexpected appearance, he grinned as he hardened.


    Its not that I am not strong; its because you are light to carry. If youre this light, you can keep eating cocoa for dessert.


    Ugh.


    Imagining the cocoa, which came out at every meal, I heard a disgusting sounding from my mouth.


    Winston carefully sat me in a wheelchair with a smile, saying I should have the courage and tell Master Ricarda about it.


    You can roll the wheels on the wheelchairs directly, but its powered by mana, so if youre only good at these buttons, youll be able to move them easily.


    The green button moves forward, the red button stop, and the yellow button goes back again. And if I wanted to change the direction, I could press the purple button.


    At the easy-to-understand exnation, I tried pressing the buttons. I tried to push it one by one to see if it was moving properly, and then I tried to leave by myself.


    Of course, you can move yourself, but I cant let you go through the trouble of pushing a button.


    You said youd give me freedom earlier.


    Would you please allow me to help you?


    His deft words dumbfounded me. He shrugged at my gaze.


    My mission today is to serve the youngdy without any inconvenience.


    That being said, If I go to the forest, I want to practice moving with my wheelchair.


    If you want to, I shall do so.


    After reaching an agreement that each other wanted, we left the room. The rolling sound of the wheels slowly turned into a patched, grassy sound.


    The scenery outside after a long time was bluish, perhaps because of Ricardas magic. The rising sun, a garden that was not cold even in winter, and colorful flowers and trees. Seeing all this made me feel more refreshed.


    I took a deep breath and then inhaled the air outside after a long time.


    There seemed to be nothing that could not be done in this ce where the cold winter dare not to enter.


    The chill air is not far away, but theyre not also not too close .


    The wheelchair rolled around for about ten minutes.


    The weather, which felt warm, became chilly beyond the bleakness, and I got goosebumps.


    It might be cold.


    When I covered the nket that Winston handed me that he had prepared in advance, it became warm. As I became ustomed to the warmth of the dreamy nket, I could see a small prison that looked narrow when an adult entered.


    Oh, no. He still hasnt eaten.


    In front of the iron cage, the bowl containing the sandwich was neatlyid without any traces of touching it.


    Where is he?


    Well, there he is. I couldnt see him well because he was crouching in the corner of the cage.


    As I looked through Winstons direction, a person appeared in the space filled with darkness. The head, clothes, and even his face were not seen because of darkness until I raised my head.


    Then, a rumbling sound rang out in a quiet space. I dont think its mine since I ate a while ago, and I dont think Winston would starve.


    Even if he is so hungry, he didnt touch it until the end. He must have been well trained.


    Training?


    Im afraid he has been trained while being brainwashed. Hes probably going to follow only his masters orders.


    The words that came out naturally were cruel.


    Thats why he didnt touch the food like that even if his hypnosis was released.


    Hes starving like that, but he didnt touch the food in front of him.


    What I had experienced in the past at a nursery came to my mind.


    Even though the food was overflowing in the restaurant, those nd meals that were particrly mine.


    Those days I wanted to eat, but the beatings that came to me when I started to eat Also, those days I started to starve naturally.


    For some reason, I wanted to see him put food in his mouth.


    You know what? Can I go close and give it to him myself?


    No, its dangerous.


    But he must be hungry. Maybe he got scared because an adult gave him food.


    Winston was strongly against my deterrence, but he let me go as if he couldnt help it.


    Then you cant put your hands in the cage. You must watch him from outside.


    Yes, I will do so.


    On the grassy dirt floor, the sound of wheels rolling echoed.


    The sound made the boy who was the Male protagonist raise his head and make eye contact.


    The ck spot had returned to the white, but his reptile-like pupils remained the same.


    Fortunately, his eyes looked a little better than yesterday.


    No, was it because he was on guard?


    The artificial feeling disappeared, but Winston started to be wary of him as he showed strong hostility to me.


    I was worried about what to do in this tense situation.


    Im sure he wont eat it if I just give it to him. But if I throw the food to him


    Hes not an animal, and throwing food to eat is a bit


    It might make him feel worse.


    Lets think the other way around. If I was him, what would I do to eat in that situation?


    Im hungry, but there are enemies in front of me.


    But the food was also given by the enemy.


    I dont think I would eat it.


    I dont think I would like to eat it either, so there was no way a well-trained child like him would eat it.


    At least if they werent an enemy, I would have thought about eating it.


    Oh, this is it.


    As people say, you cant spit on a smiling face.*


    Its not starting friendly but slowly approaching him.


    Youve already been through the most desirable model.


    Recalling the image of my family trying to approach me slowly, I pulled out the nket and carefully went down to the floor.


    Miss?


    Wait a minute.


    I raised my hand to stop Winstons worried voice. And I made eye contact with the child staring at me. I wont be able to have any immediate favor with this child, but I wont have to be hostile. All I have to do is think about what emotions I have and how I should behave like.


    Leaning against the cold ground, I slowly approached the front of the cage. My movements directed the boys gaze toward me, and finally, our eyes met.


    The moment his bizarre purple eyes and my golden eyes met, the boy loosened his shriveled arm.


    In the act of showing interest, I brought the sandwich bowl next to me and lifted it.


    Why didnt you eat this?


    ..


    Arent you hungry? Its delicious.


    ..


    If you dont eat properly, you cant move or run.


    At my words, he flinched and rolled his eyes. His gaze reached the sandwich. As he showed interest, I put a sandwich te inside of the iron cage.


    Here. Itll be easy for you to eat because its inside.


    ..


    I just want you to enjoy this. Its sad to be hungry.


    Flinch, the childs body moved slightly.


    Looking at the rolling eyes as if he was wondering whether to eat or not, I put the water next to him and rmended him again.


    If you feel thirsty, you can drink water with it.


    When the near-permit words ran out, the boy suddenly rushed in and began to eat the sandwich in a panic.


    Winston came right next to me as I proudly looked at his moving mouth as if he wouldnt spill any leftover.


    Miss, you said you wouldnt put your hands inside the cage.


    But I couldnt help it.


    And he ate it. At my wink, he sighed helplessly. Then he hugged me and immediately put me in a wheelchair.


    Do you know how cold the ground is, for you to sit on that bare ground. Lets go back, Miss.


    Already?


    You did a dangerous thing by putting your hand in a cage, so lets go back. You promised, didnt you?


    When he said, if I get in an ident, it would be a big deal, I looked sullen.


    Anyway, I fed him.


    But I dont want to be a liar.


    Before I knew it, the guy who finished the sandwich and drank all the water was staring at me.


    Its a relief that there was less animosity towards me than a while ago, right?


    I had no choice but to nod my head because Winston was so tough.


    Then, wait a minute before we go back.


    Before turning the wheelchair, I handed Winston the nket that I covered.


    You know itll be cold if he stays there all the time. This nket is warm, so give it to him.


    Miss, thats too much.


    He shook his head as if he had lost. And even though I said that, his expression didnt look bad.


    When I saw him tucking the nket into the cage, I looked satisfied.


    Because its cold there. You must cover yourself with it.


    ..


    Ill bring you something more delicious next time Ie. So


    What should I say in this kind of situation?


    I pondered and added amon saying.


    Dont catch a cold. Dont get in trouble until Ie again, and can you please let me know your name next time?


    ..


    Ill tell you my name the next time Ie, so let me know yours too.


    ..


    Well, bye. See you tomorrow.


    As if I should not be here anymore, the wheelchair quickly headed home. However, it was regrettable to go back like this, so we decided to spend more time in the warm garden.


    A persistent gaze followed behind us as we drifted away.


    When I turned around, the male protagonist was staring at us.


    It was a gaze that I had no idea what he was thinking about.

 Chapter 23

    CH 23


    After leaving the Male Protagonist behind, we arrived in the garden. The garden was more beautiful than I expected. It was shining brightly with a variety of colors, which was enough to fill my inner achromatic colors.


    I looked around the garden as much as I could and ate the meals that Winston prepared, but didnt drink the cocoa prepared for me.


    What do you want to do now?


    Study.


    Then shall we go to the room?


    Ah! No, Im going to my moms Office.


    Winston stopped walking at that remark.


    I was sure he didnt want me to go because there was an incident like that yesterday.


    Im also a little reluctant about it.


    But thatdidnt mean I could keep avoiding going to the Office.


    More than anything, I want to be the first to greet everyone when theye back.


    It was a little embarrassing, but when they return, I wanted to greet them Wee back.


    Arent you scared?


    Its my moms room


    The end of the conversation was a little blurred, but Winston naturally turned the wheelchair to the second floor without asking any more questions.


    How do I get up to the second floor?


    When I pointed to the wheelchair and asked him, he lifted the wheelchair I was in, saying there was no need for me to get out of it.


    Winston?


    Whats going on?


    No matter how light Iwas, I couldnt believe he lifted a wheelchair in one go.


    The bewildered eyes moved around.


    I felt a little scared so I held onto my wheelchair. Then, I heard Winstons voice telling me not to worry.


    Even if Im like this, I have a great strength. Even if there is an incident, I will sacrifice my body to save you. So dont worry too much.


    Then Winston gets hurt?


    It wont happen anyway.


    Even when you feel ufortable with your hands


    He grinned at my back.


    Fortunately, it was true when he said he was confident in his strength, and so reaching the end of the stairs was a quick climb.


    Of course, when I entered my mothers Office, the body I saw yesterday had disappeared.


    There. Thats my seat.


    A small silver desk next to arge desk.


    I removed the chair in front, reced the chair with a wheelchair, and opened the book on my desk.


    While I was studying with Winston for such a long time, the clock started to shine.


    Its not an assassin or an intruder again, is it?


    As I flinched and trembled at the male protagonists memory who appeared with that light, I felt a gaze and looked up.


    Nothing that you might worry about will ever happen again.


    My worries?


    In order not to put you in danger again, everyone took a steady step.


    With these words, Winston said to look at the clock and nced at it.


    I tightly grabbed the pen I was holding and slowly raised my head as if I made up my mind to look there.


    As soon as the light disappeared, Lennox and Ricarda appeared in front of it.


    The two smiled and tried to greet me, but they were stunned and froze on the spot.


    Lennox? Ricarda?


    Seeing their strangely stiff face, I tilted my head, and at that moment, I could hear a smallugh behind me.


    What is it?


    Looking at winstonsughing, it doesnt seem to be a bad situation. It was not until I tilted my head again to look at them that I noticed that their eyes were on the wheelchair.


    Oh, thats right! Its said that the chair was prepared from the beginning?


    My voice popped up from the childish stupidity and embarrassment that arose from my mind.


    The two finally warmed up to the sound of my voice and nced at each other.


    And the first one to open his mouth was Lennox.


    No, Im sure Rica said the wheelchair wasnt ready. Whats going on here?


    Obviously Hyung said it wasnt ready. Where did ite from?


    You two are saying opposite things right now.


    Lennox med Ricarda, Ricarda med Lennox, and at my words, they finally closed their mouths with a surprised look.


    You both deceived me.


    As soon as I continued, the two shook their heads from side to side.


    No! What are you talking about?


    Yes, absolutely not, Daphne! So actually mother!


    As if he wanted to add something, his eyes curled up.


    The moment Lennox tried to me mother for this situation, the clock shed again, and she returned. She looked a little tired, but she greeted me with a smile on her mouth.


    But the moment she saw me, her eyes shook as if there was an earthquake.


    Did you have a good day?


    With that, mothers words were blurred.


    The red eyes momentarily showed embarrassment and disappeared.


    You told me that facial expressions are important.


    I watched her changing expressions from beginning to end and felt ate strangeness.


    Of course, my mother smiled and said to Lennox and Ricarda, as if she was never embarrassed.


    Oh, my God. If the wheelchair was already prepared, couldnt you have said that to me, kids?


    Even mom turned the me on both of them.


    At those words, Lennox and Ricarda looked at me in bewilderment. The twos expressions of injustice and mothers confident eyes contrasted.


    I stared at those three and took a deep sigh.


    Winston, impatient at my sigh, burst intoughter with a loud noise.


    Pfft-Pfft. Do you know that all three of you are saying different things?


    Everyone knew and deceived me.


    And without even knowing that, I kept being held around.


    Again, I took a deep sigh.


    The three people who had flinched at the sigh, exchanged nces andughed awkwardly.


    Just because I thought that carrying you around in my arms would make you more stable thats why I did it.


    I did it because I was afraid Daphne would be cold!


    I did it because I wanted to carry my baby around.


    As if they had given up on changing subject, they are now piling their excuses.


    When Ricarda, Lennox, and Moms excuses continued, Iughed as if I had no choice.


    Whats that?


    Even the excuses that they took out to save themselves were because they were worried about me.


    If they are this warm-hearted, I cant get angry at them anymore.


    For some reason, I had a hunch that I could make a natural smile now.


    Not the awkward smile that I practiced looking in the mirror one day, but a kind of smile that coulde out naturally without shaking.


    So I smiled with the feeling that I felt right now.


    Curl your eyes and gently lift your mouth so that you can return back the smile that they showered upon you.


    Wee back home.


    Lennox blinked wildly at my smile.


    Ricarda fumbled and rubbed his eyes asking if he saw something wrong.


    My mom opened her eyes wide and smiled with me.


    And she answered me.


    Yes, Im back.


    Mom came up to me and opened her arms.


    I asked you to hug me until yesterday, but today my mom asked for a hug first.


    And I like my moms arms, too.


    I rationalized myself and was held tightly in my mothers arms.


    So what if youre a little embarrassed and shy?


    I like it.


    As if they had finally came back to their senses when they saw me being held in mothers arms, Lennox and Ricarda also greeted me.


    Im home, Daphne.


    Me too, me too. Im back!


    Soon after, the Office could be filled with everyonesughter.


    Of course, my smile was included in it.


    ***


    No.


    Winstons report, about how the day was yesterday, seemed to have reached her.


    With breakfast in front, my mother said firmly not to ever go near that boy.


    But its cold and lonely there


    But if I said you cant then you cant. You dont know yet how dangerous a child who grew up as an assassin is.


    When she said that because she worried for me, I had a thought that I would not be able to get her permission even if I tried to be stubborn until the end.


    My mothers attitude was stronger than I thought.


    First of all, I have to get close to him andbe nice to him


    In addition, he may skip his meals again.


    I dont think he is going to take his meals if I dont go.


    Looking at the warm breakfast in front of me, I raised my head. Mom was looking at me with a determined look.


    I also spoke with a firm expression.


    Then Ill use my wish! My second wish.


    Daphne.


    Lennox tried to stop me, but Ricarda dissuaded him, saying they should hear it first.


    I want to use the second wish to spend time with him, and Im sure hes going to starve without me, and he might be scared being there.


    As if she found my words nave, my mother sighed.


    Even if the brainwashing was cleared, something dangerous will remain unchanged.


    Upon her worried voice, Lennox and Ricarda nodded hard like they sympathized her words.


    Baby, Mom doesnt want you to get hurt anymore. The marks on your neck still havent disappeared.


    He didnt do it. And I promised him that Id visit him again.


    My mothers eyes headed for a dainty handkerchief around my neck.


    Under the cute pink handkerchief, there were still bruises left from the mans strangtionst night, which was enough to worry about.


    I understood why my family was worried, but I couldnt back down on this opinion.


    Its because I cant wait to be friends with him.


    Friend? Hes an assassin


    Im not going into the cage, and Im not going to open it. If youre worried, Ill only go there when Im with someone else!


    As my words continued, my mom just listened quietly.


    Then Lennox next to me tried to persuade me as if the permission shouldnt be allowed.


    But if he doesnt change, and still threatens us, when that timees, even Ill give up.


    Do you feel sorry for him?


    A little bit.


    Finally, with my final words, she surrendered.


    Its your wish, so you can have it your way. But you have to keep your word.


    Yes!


    Lennox frowned upon my mothers permission and my ecstatic response.


    Mother, but


    And Ricarda, stay with her today.


    Yes?


    But its mothers turn today


    Ricarda nodded his head as he sensibly looked at mother, Lennox, and me at once.


    Ill go and make sure its clearly taken care off.


    I guess youre going to check if the brainwashing magic worked out well.


    Anyway, with a little excitement after my second wish came true, I told Ricarda.


    Ricarda! Come on, lets go.


    Wait, you have to have your morning breakfast.


    Ah!


    The hand, that was spoon-feeding the soup, got faster.


    The reason the soup was especially delicious today, was probably because of my mood.

 Chapter 24

    CH 24


    I headed for the forest, today, as I don on a thick coat.


    Hi.


    ..


    At my greeting, the male protagonist, whose body had been curled up in the corner of the cage, raised his head.


    He looked like a puppy weing his owner.


    When I lowered my eyes, I saw a bowl of cold food that had been served yesterday evening.


    You didnt eat again.


    I reached out to Ricarda, who was staring from the side.


    Please drop me off.


    You dont even know how cold the ground is!


    I know all the cushions were brought.


    You should have said that after hiding that heavy bag behind your back.


    In my weary eyes, Ricardaughed yfully and dropped his bag on the ground.


    Hah, when did you see this again?


    When the bag opened up, many things popped out that I began to wonder how they all fit inside.


    Now, this is a cushion, a nket, a pair of gloves and scarfs that I brought in case it gets cold, and most importantly, Daphnes favorite warm cocoa!


    Eww.


    I smiled when he spoke and turned my head to control my facial expressions.


    As each of the things came out of the bag one by one, I could see the main characters body slowly approaching the front.


    As if he wanted to see each and every one of them.


    He was an assassin. But has he ever seen anything like this? Will his memory as an assassin remain the same?


    Ill find out when I slowly start to talk to him.


    ***


    The dreary ce turned cozy as if it were a pic, due to the items that were taken out of the bag.


    I put down the little basket in my arms on the floor and urged Ricarda.


    Hurry up and drop me off.


    Before youe down


    I cant put my hand in the iron cage. Also I cant open the door.


    Ricarda nodded in satisfaction at my quick answer.


    Good.


    Ricarda carefullyid me out on the ground.


    I brought the basket I had set aside for the male protagonist, who had approached right in front of me.


    Are you not hungry?


    Im hungry.


    The voice I heard for the first time was full of vignce.


    Nevertheless, his eyes didnt fall off from the basket I had brought.


    I guess he must have smelled something amazing from it.


    It has a warm soup, soft bread, and also the fruits. Dont you want to eat?


    I want to eat.


    I cant just give it to you


    I deliberately twisted my words and pulled the cloth-covered over the Basket.


    As the front of the cage was filled with the smell of delicious food, a familiar rumbling sound was heard.


    you can hit me.


    What?


    I looked up at him wondering what he was talking about at the unexpected sound I heard. Then he spoke with a firm expression.


    You can hit me. So give me that.


    Why should I hit you?


    You said you couldnt just give it to me.


    At my words, he tilted his head.


    When he didnt get it, I said pointing to the food I gave him yesterday.


    This, I gave it to you, but you didnt eat it.


    It smells strange.


    Strange smell?


    Did the food go bad already?


    As I looked down at the hardened food with a serious look on my face, Ricarda took away the bowl with a big, empty cough saying he will verify it.


    Then he opened his hand to cover his mouth so that he could not be seen by the person in the prison, and whispered.


    Truth Serum.


    Ah, Lennox said hed interrogate him while feeding him the truth serum.


    I guess he started to put that in after he knew that the Male protagonist started eating.


    This was not usually sensitive to smell.


    Ricarda shook his head as I blinked looking at my basket.


    When he gestured that it wasnt brought right now, I turned my head back and looked at him.


    What did the people who provided food do for you?


    They used their fist. Or kicked me. Even swearing at me.


    My forehead naturally creased upon listening to the harsh abuse that came out of his little mouth.


    Was this what it meant when said that the male protagonist had a bad past?


    Hes simr to me.


    No, he had been raised as an assassin, so wouldnt it have been worse than me?


    Strangely,he is simr to me. Is it just my feeling?


    I rummaged through the basket and took out the food one by one and put it in front of the cage.


    Unlike how I ignored the advicest time, this time, I didnt put my hand in the cage but put it as close as I could, and told the guy staring at me.


    I dont have enough energy to hit you.


    What am I supposed to do then?


    In a voice filled with doubts, I said nothing.


    My name is Daphne.


    .


    I told you to tell me your name next time we meet. Tell me your name. Thats enough.


    I cant call him the main character, the guy, and the boy forever.


    I knew it from the novel, but I wanted to say it after hearing it directly from the boy in front of me.


    I grumbled inwardly andid down the bottle of water in front of him.


    So whats your name?


    There was no response.


    I looked into his eyes so that he wouldnt hesitate to give me his name and he opened his mouth.


    Ragnar.


    Yes, Ragnar, you can eat now.


    At my permission, Ragnar slowly reached out his hand toward the food in front of him, and as soon as the food reached him, he began to eat like a ritual.


    In less than five minutes, the breakfast I had prepared was all over.


    Its delicious.


    Ragnar spoke out and shut his mouth with embarrassment.


    And he rolled his eyes and stare at Ricardas eye.


    Then he started huping.


    The faint hups and trembling body with his mouth closed.


    The ring eyes were as if they were rebellion, but what was contained in them was in fear.


    He pretended to be strong on the outside, but in the end, he was afraid and retreat.


    Like a trained dog.


    Ragnar was trembling with fear.


    Ricarda doesnt look scary. So is he scared because hes big?


    As I looked at him who lowered his head quietly with his mouth closed, I had no choice but to forcibly pull Ricardas sleeve.


    Ricarda who was looking at Ragnar with the eyes of an observer, answered my call with his eyes wide open.


    Hmm? Whats wrong, Daphne?


    Iid a nket on the ground and patted it with my hand.


    Ricarda, sit here, too.


    Eh?


    Hurry up and sit.


    When I pulled his sleeve again, Ricarda sat on the nket with a confused look on his face.


    Only then did Ragnars tremors stop a little.


    As expected, you seem to hate big guys, dont you?


    If I inferred from what he said earlier, it looks like he had been abused.


    That fear was probably the result of discipline.


    Really, he is simr to me.


    But I had the will to escape, and Ragnar couldnt have had that, and since he was hypnotized, he couldnt have thought about it too.


    Phew, I had no choice but to sigh.


    Ricarda, who sat next to me, seemed to have noticed, but he erased his perplexity and became quiet again.


    Ragnar.


    Uh, uh.


    His reaction was slow as if he was not used to others calling his name.


    I opened the lid of the thermos bottle with an empty cup in front. As I moved, the eyes of the two men turned to me at the same time.


    Not caring whether their eyes were on each other or me, I opened the thermos and poured the cocoa in the cup.


    The warm cocoa was still emitting white smoke with heat in it.


    I put down the cocoa filled with cups in front of Ragnar.


    Drink it.


    what is this?


    Well.


    I concocted the words by looking at Ricardas countenance, who is looking at the cup of cocoa with a bewildered face next to me.


    Its the most delicious, warmest cocoa in the world. My favorite one, but Ill give it to you.


    can I drink?


    I gave it to you to drink.


    In response to the abrupt answer, Ragnar carefully grabbed the cup and began to drink cocoa with a slurping sound.


    As I watched Ragnar drinking with his face buried in the cup, I tapped Ricardas hand next to me.


    Im sorry for giving it to him.


    Hoo-hoo. Its okay! Daphnes favorite cocoa in the world can be made again when we return back.


    Ah.


    I was going to pass todays snack naturally like this.


    I dont know why, but at his proud look, I couldnt even say that it was alright.


    Not knowing what to do, I nodded my head and at that moment I heard the sound of Ragnar opening his mouth with a voice.


    Its delicious!


    To him, whom with his unique purple eyes staring at me, I nodded my head as if to acknowledge.


    Its sweet, right, so its delicious.


    As if it was really delicious, the borders around his mouth that existed a while ago had already disappeared when his eyes lit from excitement and he licked everything on his lips.


    He is naive.


    It felt like I was taming him with something delicious. It felt a bit weird.


    The atmosphere seemed to be going well, so I wanted to stop for today, satisfied.


    At that time, Ragnars face suddenly hardened, as if he had noticed he was too excited.


    No, I mean it was de-delicious


    He lowered his guard then tightened it again.


    In response to the ever-changing response, I shrugged my shoulder as if it were okay.


    Curious of what he would do now, I knowingly looked at Ragnar and then as if my stare was burdensome, he slowly opened his mouth to say something.


    Da-ph-ne?


    Yes.


    Ragnar mumbled.


    He bit his lips, clenched his fist, opened it, couldnt stay still, and finally spoke with difficulty.


    Daphne, dont you find me gross?


    Do I have to find you disgusting?


    He shut his mouth to my question.


    As if to say something, he flinched again, dodged his gaze, and spoke in a small voice.


    My eyes are gross. Everyone finds it gross


    I thought it was a little unusual.


    When the hypnosis was lifted, the whites returned, but the pupils were still torn like reptiles.


    However, he looked like a sullen puppy with his head down.


    Ragnar, look at my legs.


    Ah.


    He opened his eyes wide, surprised at seeing the bandage that had been wrapped around my legs.


    When I came out to a bright ce, I saw Ragnars pupils narrow.


    I spoke as if it was not a big deal.


    I cant walk alone because of my legs. So I go around in a wheelchair.


    Ah


    Are you disgusted with me like that?


    No. No, its not gross.


    Me too. Youre not creepy.


    He didnt forget to add a few words to his lingering appearance.


    So dont look away and talk looking at me.


    I looked at his eyes gently.


    When I saw his sparkling purple eyes, I didnt feel bad because it seemed to show the color I had lost.


    I like purple, so give me a good look.


    until when?


    Ragnars voice was quivering.


    I could see that his hand was burning red in the cold.


    Give me your hand.


    ?


    Quickly.


    Surprised by my sudden remark, he carefully reached out of the cage.


    It was cold when I touched it.


    While cing the pink gloves, Ricarda had brought, in his hand, I said.


    Until you are deemed as safe.


    Im asking you to keep showing me. Ille over every day.


    There was no return to that remark.


    No, there was no need for words.


    Because I could see his white corpse- like face, glowing red as if it were lively.


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