Translations by Pearl

Gavin: I’ll ask you one more time.

Gavin: Who are you?

But he didn't seem to expect an actual answer from the man.

Before the words had even left his lips, a sharp gust of wind surged, and Gavin’s figure blurred as he closed the distance. He swung a powerful kick toward the stranger.

??: You certainly have a knack for showing up at the worst possible time, Officer Bai.

The man rubbed his temples, letting out a heavy, exasperated sigh.

With a quick flick of his fingers, the seemingly fragile yet incredibly resilient threads gathered together, forming a perfect shield that instantly neutralized Gavin’s assault.

Using the momentum to his advantage, he leaped back out of Gavin’s strike zone. Before the wind could howl and surge again, he extended his arms and crossed them swiftly in front of his chest.

Youran: ....Ngh!

In the next second, the lights throughout the venue suddenly cut out. Only a faint sliver of moonlight filtered inside, illuminating the countless threads more clearly—they were strung across the entire arena.

……Rather than sticky spiderwebs, they felt more like incredibly tough silk in this moment, constantly tightening and multiplying, pinning Gavin and me to the spot.

It felt as though something was simultaneously burrowing into my exhausted brain. A subtle, gnawing pain—like ants crawling—and a wave of nausea forced me to gag.

I felt as if I had become a projector, my mind mechanically and passively replaying every image of my past memories on a loop.

Gavin: Get lost!

From the corner of my eye, I could see Gavin’s expression was incredibly strained. He was relentlessly tearing at the threads, only to be encased in layer upon layer of rapidly growing silk.

??: Officer Bai, I have no intention of making an enemy of the STF.

??: It would be better for you to stop struggling. The more you resist, the tighter the binds become, making it even harder for you to move.

??: Human memory is exactly like that.

??: Wouldn't you agree, QUEEN?

He gave me a slight smile, which only made my headache more agonizing.

Something was constantly churning and prying into my brain, as if trying to split it wide open to pick out something specific.

As the pain deepened, I instinctively sensed he was searching for something and tried my hardest to resist.

Youran: What are you doing……?!

??: You've been using your powers all day, and yet you still have energy left?

A flash of admiration crossed his eyes. More threads coiled around my body, as if trying to choke the very breath out of me—

But in the next second, every strand of silk around my neck snapped at once, as if severed by a silent command.

It was only after they snapped that the faint sound of the cut reached my ears—sharp, crisp, and precise.

I managed to lift my head, catching sight of a pair of amber eyes drenched in a freezing chill.

Gavin: Don't touch her.

Even the darkness couldn't hide the raw hostility in his gaze. Gavin seemed completely indifferent to the silk continuously wrapping around him, letting the bloody threads seal his mouth and bind his arms and legs.

None of that mattered.

A fierce gale began to swell within the gym. He crouched slightly, transforming himself into a brutal blade, charging toward the man alongside the raging winds.

??: Officer Bai, you’re becoming a bit of a nuisance.

The man’s face finally lost its initial composure. His smile vanished as he clenched both hands into fists.

The threads suddenly grew thicker and more numerous, shimmering with a cold, silvery light as they locked Gavin firmly in place.

Unknown Voice: You couldn't even save your own mother.

Unknown Voice: Since you already know you're useless, keep your head down.

Unknown Voice: Someone like you is bound to end up in prison sooner or later.

Unknown Voice: Who would believe anything a student like you has to say?

Unknown Voice: You don't belong here. And this place will never belong to you.

Unknown Voice: You're just a cheat who got in through the back door. Bai Kun's son. A privileged brat who doesn't know his place.

Unknown Voice: You can't protect anything.

Unknown Voice: You don't even know who you are.

Countless words cut through the scenes of his memories—noisy, piercing, blending the voices of a thousand people until they finally merged into his own.

Gavin: What kind of person are you going to become?

The voice interrogated him incessantly, condemning him, trying to force him to bow his head.

??: Memory is a massive cage. There is nothing wrong with yielding to its influence or submitting to its growth.

Gavin heard that loathsome voice ringing in his ears and couldn't help but let out a silent, derisive sneer.

The path he had taken to get here was clear in his mind. Time and time again, the darkness had ground his bones until they let out a sharp, snapping sound.

He should have been shattered. He should have crumbled into dust long ago.

Gavin: …By what right?

He struggled to reach out, gripping those memories tight. They constricted his throat, his breath, and the path ahead of him.

But… by what right?!

Gavin: .....I won't let them decide a single thing for me.

Gavin: Only I can decide……

Gavin: Whether I move forward, or where I go!

He threw his arms up, violently seizing the shackles that sought to bind him, tearing through them until a jagged line of blood streaked the air.

Gavin: You can't trap me with things like this.

I watched as Gavin lifted his head with stubborn defiance.

His eyes were so clear and bright that even if the road ahead was long and shrouded in shadows, he could still see exactly where it led.

Gavin yanked hard on those blood-stained chains, and together with the dust that had settled upon his soul—

He tore them all away like decaying bone, scattering a sharp mist of blood.

A bird took flight, as if he had sprouted a new pair of wings.

There are always those who try to imprison the storm.

But a storm cannot be contained.

Gavin tore through everything, yet carried the weight of it all. The wind swept across the room, pulling me safely behind him.

Gavin: It looks like you're out of tricks.

He stood tall before me, his back rigid and cold, shielding me from any dangerous scrutiny.

Gavin might have changed in many ways, but in moments like this, he was exactly the same as he had always been.

To our surprise, the man had no intention of lingering. With a light leap, he landed on the window frame that had already been shattered by the gale.

??: Like I said, I have no interest in making an enemy out of Officer Bai. Now that my business here is concluded, I have no reason to overstay my welcome.

I froze, noticing a single silver thread retracting from my wrist back to his fingertips.

The man’s previous smile had vanished, replaced by a gaze that lingered on me, growing increasingly intense.

??: I hope all of this truly proves valuable for both of us.

Leaving those words behind, he vanished into the night wind.

Gavin: .....!

Gavin moved to give chase, riding the wind, but he suddenly stumbled. A sharp, instinctive gasp for air escaped his lips.

Youran: Wait...! Gavin!

I didn't have a shred of strength left in my body, but I still reached out as hard as I could.

Youran: Your injuries are too severe. Don't go after him!

Gavin: I'm not going to die.

He stood up once more and turned his head slightly. I could sense a lingering trace of anger and internal struggle radiating from him.

Youran: You don't have to wait until you're on the verge of death to stop!

Anxiety surged through me, and I couldn't help but shout at him.

Gavin: ......

Gavin: How are you feeling right now?

Youran: Me? I... I should be fine.

Youran: It just felt like a lot of memories were flying around in my head for a second... but I'm basically okay...

As if to prove it, I gritted my teeth and forced myself to stand, squeezing out a smile.

Youran: But I'm a little dizzy, and you're covered in wounds. Let's go back to the STF together, okay?

Gavin: I've already called it in.

Gavin: Backup should be here any minute.

He wiped the blood from his face with complete indifference and gave his open wounds a cursory wrap before stepping forward again.

Gavin: Wait here. Someone will come to pick you up.

The wind picked up once more, its bite so cold it made my heart ache as his silhouette was swallowed by the night.

He was so certain of his own beacon, so sure of his destination, that he treated himself with a desperate sort of cruelty.

Sometimes the wind moves so fast that it forgets how to stay still.

Just as Gavin said, the STF team appeared before me not long after he left.

One familiar face after another came into view, but all of them had lost the warmth and closeness of the past.

After being taken to the STF, I was put through a series of physical and neurological examinations, and it seemed I also underwent the Evol fingerprinting process Gavin had mentioned.

As I prepared to give my statement, Eli tapped his pen.

Eli: You can actually go rest first. If you're feeling uneasy, we can assign someone to protect you.

Eli: You don't have to push yourself so hard. We don't have a tradition of "mistreating" victims here.

Youran: It’s okay. My memory is clearest right now, so it’s better to do this now before I miss any details.

Of course, that was just an excuse.

After all, I couldn't think of any other way to linger here and wait for a chance to run into him again after his injuries.

Eli's questions were thorough and meticulous. Although I tried my best to keep thinking and answer slowly, my growing exhaustion made it almost impossible to keep my eyes open.

After completing the final scan with the Evol device, I stood in the corridor and turned back to face Eli.

Youran: I have to see Gavin. He was severely injured.

Youran: I have to see him!

Eli: The Commander's actions are his own responsibility. He knows what needs to be done and when to do it.

Eli: And we simply follow his lead.

Youran: At the very least, let me see that he's getting treated.

Eli: You can barely take care of yourself—you're swaying just trying to walk—and yet you're still worried about him.

He maintained a strictly professional air, but seeing my stubborn persistence, he couldn't help but let out a sigh.

Eli: He knows his own limits. If he says he won't die, then he won't die.

Eli: I really don't understand why you're being so insistent.

Eli: I need to head out too, Miss Producer. Please don't add to my workload.

His tone was light, yet tinged with a certain unidentifiable bewilderment.

It made me feel as if I were the one being unreasonable.

Before long, an STF member approached me, silently signaling that it was time for me to move on.

I looked at the cold, sterile surroundings, gritted my teeth, and began to walk with slow, heavy steps.

Early the next morning, I received a text message.

Gavin (SMS): I'm fine.

Two simple words. It was as if he’d stripped away the entire painful process, leaving behind nothing but a dry, blunt conclusion.

Yet, that conclusion was enough to finally settle my restless heart.

But without seeing him in person, the worry continued to gnaw at me, even as I was forced to accept his word for it.

I stared at my silent phone, not even sure if I should call that familiar number.

To him, would it be seen as a gesture of care, or just an intrusion?

I gazed somberly at the string of digits, a bitter smile tugging at my lips.

I tell myself I'm not sixteen anymore, but how is this any different from being a high schooler?

I can't be sure of what's in his heart. I don't know when I should step forward to speak to him, or if I should just wait around some stairwell corner, hoping to stage a chance encounter.

I forced myself to calm down and head into the office.

I spent the better part of the day meticulously organizing all the public information I had gathered on the recent string of high school suicides.

The family environment of every child, the social atmosphere of every classroom...

Staring at those cold words and images, I felt a heavy sense of helplessness and suffocation.

A deep-seated suspicion forced me to confront everything laid out before me, and I found myself tightening my grip on my pen.

A profound sense of absence was taking root in the heart of everyone I met.

It subtly influenced individuals, and by extension, the entire world. It left the weak isolated and the failed with nowhere to turn.

Though I still couldn't be certain what it was, perhaps it was just as that little boy had said—something vital, something that served as a foundation, was missing.

But what could it be?

A sense of morality? Empathy? Compassion? Emotion? Warmth?

The bonds we share with others?

I scratched my head, feeling lost in the face of such a massive, abstract concept.

At the same time, I had to remain cautious regarding that man who appeared out of nowhere and his Evol.

Youran: Please don't tell me another new enemy has crawled out of the woodwork...

I let out a helpless sigh and shook my head, refocusing my attention on the investigation in front of me.

Aside from the less-than-bizarre time of death, the previous mass suicide cases were no different from the one at Loveland High.

I felt as though this investigation had allowed me to step into one of the thousands of thick, pulsing veins of this city, giving me a clear view of how it was changing.

Afterward, I compiled the information I’d organized with the other incidents investigated by the team and arranged for the report to be published.

I didn't expect the public response to explode like this.

But instead of focusing on the underlying family issues, school environments, or social problems, people were obsessively dissecting the mystery of the mass suicide event itself.

The pact to meet at the gym, the surveillance footage showing no one heading to the rooftop, the missing fifth child who skipped class……

Even though I hadn't published any of the details I discovered within Gavin’s memories, these keywords were enough for netizens to entertain themselves with endless speculation and armchair detective work.

Skillet Eater: @/DormMateBelow, come check this out! This is way more interesting than any mystery movie, right? Softhearted Mercenary: This is premium material right here! Is there seriously no author willing to turn this into a thriller? Someone get a pen to a writer, stat! No AFK Allowed: I’m betting there’s going to be another wave within three days. Any takers? Place your bets now! Maybe that fifth kid…… is the real culprit! Mimi-La-Ma-Hong: All this covering things up is so boring. Might as well let the chaos grow. It’d be even better if it got big enough to shut down the whole city for a holiday, hehe.

Minor: Boss, you really nailed it! I can't believe you saw this coming!

Kiki: I never would have thought to use this angle for a breakthrough! How are you so amazing?

Anna: Well done, Youran.

The team cheered for me with faces full of excitement and admiration. Even the other colleagues in the office caught the fever, typing away furiously to keep the topic trending and the momentum building.

Youran: .....Stop.

Youran: Stop letting the public discourse head toward this kind of entertainment-focused narrative. This isn't something that should be making everyone so happy!

In an instant, the roar of excitement was cut short, hanging in the air like a suffocating, awkward silence.

Every pair of eyes turned toward me at once—dark and hollow, like a series of tiny black holes.

Youran: …….Don't you all feel the same way?

No one spoke, but no one had to.

It felt as though I was the one who was in the wrong.

...

After giving the order, I practically fled back to my office. Sitting alone in the darkened room, the entire situation felt utterly absurd.

It shouldn't be like this…… it shouldn't be like this at all.

I sat blankly in my chair, my hands clenched tightly into fists.

Suddenly, I felt a gaze from behind. I turned back instinctively, and it was as if I were looking at an amber moon.

Gavin was perched quietly on the windowsill. The pale moonlight draped over his back like a thin veil, softening his sharp, cold features.

His face was partially hidden in the shadows, but those clear eyes of his were as brilliant as the moon itself.

There was a bandage wrapped around his neck; it looked a bit crooked and messy, but at least he’d made a decent effort to patch himself up.

Youran: ....What are you doing here?

Gavin: ...I don't know.

A light breeze brushed the hair away from his eyes, making that stubborn cowlick on his head sway peacefully for once.

Gavin: But I felt like I should come let you see for yourself.

Gavin: So I did.

Gavin hopped inside with a touch of awkwardness. He seemed unsure of where to step, so he just stood by the window, rubbing the back of his neck with one hand.

Gavin: Are you okay?

Youran: I feel a lot better after getting some sleep. And... after seeing your text, I felt even better.

Gavin: Oh. Good.

Youran: How about you? Are you okay?

Gavin: We didn't find him, but I've dealt with the wounds.

Seeing how restless he was made me feel a bit self-conscious too.

The darkened room fell silent for a moment. His sudden presence immediately pushed aside all the worry and loneliness from before.

I kept stealing glances at the bandage on his neck until he finally knit his brows slightly and leaned against the windowsill, propping himself up with both hands.

Gavin: Do you need a closer look?

Youran: Am I allowed?

Gavin: .....

He didn't say another word, just turned his head to the side.

Taking his silence as consent, I couldn't help but let a smile spread across my face as I stepped closer, leaning in toward his neck.

Even though I could feel his body tense up instantly, I took the opportunity to give him a thorough, though not overbearing, once-over.

It was just as he said—aside from a small scratch, all the cuts from yesterday had been simple-mindedly bandaged up.

Youran: It’s all crooked.

Gavin: It's fine.

I couldn't tell if he was referring to me or the wounds.

From my vantage point, I could see Gavin lifting his chin with his hands shoved in his pockets. His casually rolled-up sleeves revealed his firm, lean muscles.

His gaze remained fixed on the ceiling, the tips of his ears turning a faint red.

I watched him quietly for a long time. Finally, sensing my stare, he lowered his eyes.

Youran: Have you seen the public reaction online?

He glanced at the stacks of documents on my desk and remained silent, which I took as an affirmation.

Gavin: You didn't release the information you got from me.

Youran: Did you think I would?

Gavin: Even if you had, I would have found a way to handle it.

He closed his eyes. It seemed that even if he had let things slide for a moment, he already had a backup plan for the consequences.

I pursed my lips and looked earnestly into those beautiful eyes.

Youran: I don't want my work to cause senseless speculation about all this.

Youran: Since you trusted me, of course I'm going to live up to that trust.

As I spoke, I gave a helpless shrug and lowered my head.

Youran: But even without that information, all these... rumors are still popping up.

Youran: I don't know why it’s turning out like this.

Youran: I don't understand any of it. Not this mass suicide case, not you... and not this world.

Youran: Should I even be doing this?

Gavin: Do you feel like you're doing what you believe is right?

Gavin didn't give me a direct answer. Instead, he posed another question with total sincerity.

Gavin: If even you don't think it’s right, then there’s no point in sticking with it.

Gavin: But if you feel it’s the right thing to do, then keep going.

There was no moral lecturing, no mockery or irony regarding the bold claims I’d made before.

He was simply and quietly laying out the choice of yes or no, just as he always did.

The moon was hidden behind the clouds, yet I felt as though I was looking right at it.

Youran: Gavin, can I ask you a question that’s a bit... sentimental?

Seeing that he wasn't showing any signs of resistance, I took a breath and spoke.

Youran: Do you ever fear being alone?

Youran: That feeling like everyone is standing on the opposite side of you—that they don't understand, and you just don't fit in.

Youran: Does that ever scare you?

The wind seemed to die down. Gavin stood there quietly, his expression serious and aloof as he pulled his hands from his pockets and let them rest at his sides.

Gavin: I don't know what it means to be afraid.

Gavin: I only know that I have to be true to myself.

.

.

.

.

.

Chapter 1-20

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While still seated, he suddenly closed the distance between us, his handsome features drawing closer.

Yoshino: Kagetoki-san......?

Kagetoki-san placed his palm against my back as I tried to shift away, and for a moment, my breath hitched in my throat.

Kagetoki: Straighten your posture. People are foolish creatures; they prey on anyone who appears weak-willed.

Kagetoki: You are the trump card of the Shogunate. You may act as boldly as you please. You have my permission.

(......!)

Being exhorted by that deep, quiet voice, I felt my spine straighten in a way that felt almost magical.

(Why is it that receiving Kagetoki-san's approval gives me such a sudden surge of strength?)

Kagetoki: Yes. That was sit. Well done.

Yoshino: ......Wait a minute! You really are treating me like a dog, aren't you?

Kagetoki-san held out his palm toward me with an expression that was infuriatingly nonchalant.

Kagetoki: Paw.

Partially out of desperation, I gave Kagetoki-san’s palm a light smack.

Kagetoki: My, my. It’s difficult to determine whether you’re being a good girl or a bad girl.

(Honestly...)

Kagetoki-san was the same as always, never making it easy for me to actually feel grateful.

After a while...

???: Excuse me, Kagetoki-sama.

Kagetoki: Come in.

(Hm? I definitely know that voice.)

Matsue: I’ve come to give my report.

The one who entered was Matsue-san.

Matsue: Ah, Yoshino-san, you were here as well.

Yoshino: Yes. Thank you for your hard work.

Kagetoki: Yoshino. You stay as well. It’s better that you have a grasp of the situation.

Yoshino: Understood!

Urged to sit, Matsue-san spoke once more.

Matsue: According to information from our local spies, a mountain village has been occupied by unknown individuals.

Matsue: At first, we thought it was the work of bandits, but it appears to be a group of mercenaries hired with gold.

Kagetoki: And you suspect the employer is a court noble?

Matsue: Looking at the recent movements in Kyoto, I believe there is a high possibility of their involvement.

Kagetoki: We need to uncover both their objective and the employer.

After a brief moment of thought, Kagetoki-san gave several instructions to Matsue-san.

Matsue: Understood. I shall pass this on to the others as well.

As Matsue-san bowed and prepared to stand, he suddenly winced and clutched his lower back.

Matsue: ......!

(Ah...... maybe the pain is back again.)

Kagetoki: ......

Matsue: No, please excuse me.

Kagetoki: Good work on the report. —Matsue.

Matsue: Yes?

Kagetoki: Once this investigation is complete, you are to retire.

(Retire......?)

Matsue: ......!

Matsue-san looked at Kagetoki-san, visibly startled.

Kagetoki: Can you even grip a blade with a body like that? It seems your eyes have grown hazy from paperwork lately as well.

Matsue: ......Yes.

Kagetoki: There is no longer any point in keeping you as a retainer.

(Ugh...... you don't have to go that far.)

Even if I understood the logic, it felt like Matsue-san’s devotion—having served Kagetoki-san since childhood—was going unrewarded.

Still, I couldn't easily cut in, so I watched the situation unfold with bated breath.

Matsue: —I understand. It is true that I am nothing but a useless old man now. I suppose it is time for me to step down.

(Matsue-san...)

My heart ached at the sight of the elderly retainer’s lonely smile.

Kagetoki-san pulled a single document out from his belongings.

Then, he slid it across to Matsue-san.

Matsue: What is this?

Kagetoki: Something I had prepared, intending to give it to you.

Kagetoki: It outlines the land and the reward money to be granted to you upon your relief of duty. Read it.

After looking over the document in surprise, Matsue-san’s face went pale with shock.

Matsue: This is far too much!

(Eh?)

Kagetoki: Are you suggesting that the evaluation I’ve made after watching your work for all these years is incorrect?

Matsue: N-no. But still.

Kagetoki: What is written there is fair compensation.

Kagetoki: It will allow you to spend the rest of your days with some meaning, rather than shortening your lifespan with dirty work.

Kagetoki: Your grandson is approaching his coming-of-age ceremony, is he not?

Kagetoki: I believe it is the duty of a patriarch to stay by his side and pass on the experience you have cultivated.

(Kagetoki-san...)

Matsue: ......You even remembered my grandson’s age.

Matsue: Even though I’ve served you for so many years, we’ve hardly ever spoken of personal matters.

Kagetoki: I memorize the family structures and behavior of my retainers. Such information becomes a weakness that can be exploited in a crisis.

After saying something so blunt... Kagetoki-san gave a faint smile.

Kagetoki: Although in your case, the opportunity to use it never arose.

Matsue: Kagetoki-sama...

A slight shimmer of moisture appeared in the depths of Matsue-san’s eyes.

(Kagetoki-san really was looking out for Matsue-san.)

(It’s just that Kagetoki-san’s way of doing things is to offer practical benefits rather than words of appreciation.)

A warm feeling welled up inside me, making me feel happy as well.

Matsue: Thank you for keeping me by your side for all these years.

Kagetoki: No thanks are necessary. I did not allow you to serve out of sentimentality.

Kagetoki: If you hadn't been a capable retainer, I would have cut you loose a long time ago.

Kagetoki: Therefore...... if anyone should be giving thanks, it is I.

Matsue: ......!

Kagetoki: You’ve been a great help. Thank you, Matsue.

(Ah......)

Matsue-san’s face crumpled as he pressed his hand to his eyes.

Then, he bowed deeply to hide his expression.

Matsue: ......Those words are the greatest reward I could ever receive.

(I'm so glad, Matsue-san.)

After Matsue-san had left...

Kagetoki: What are you smirking at, Yoshino?

Kagetoki-san turned a suspicious gaze toward me.

Yoshino: I was just thinking how glad I am that Matsue-san was rewarded for his hard work.

(Actually, it’s probably more than just that.)

I was so happy because I was able to confirm that Kagetoki-san really isn't just a cold-hearted person.

Kagetoki: I wondered this earlier as well, but were you and Matsue acquainted?

Kagetoki: I recall that Matsue has been entrusted with negotiations in other provinces until recently, so you shouldn't have had the chance to meet.

Yoshino: We spoke for a bit during the break today. He told me stories about when you were a child, Kagetoki-san.

Kagetoki: ......

Kagetoki’s eyes narrowed slightly, a hint of exasperation flickering in his gaze.

Kagetoki: You certainly have a knack for befriending anyone in record time.

Kagetoki: Perhaps I should assign you to some espionage work next time.

(Eh!)

Yoshino: I think that might be a bit of a stretch for me......!

Kagetoki-san reached out haphazardly and gave my cheek a light, playful tug.

Kagetoki: It was a joke. Someone whose expressions are as easy to read as yours is ill-suited for life as a spy.

Yoshino: Hey...

(Am I really that easy to read? I feel like Kagetoki-san is just exceptionally sharp.)

Feeling a little frustrated, I decided to push back.

Yoshino: Well, for what it’s worth, I think you could stand to be a little easier to read yourself, Kagetoki-san.

Kagetoki: Oh?

(Kagetoki-san's kindness is so hard to spot. That's because he has no intention of actually showing it to people, right?)

(If only Kagetoki-san's true intentions—like the way he looked after Matsue-san—could always reach everyone.)

Even though I knew it was just my own selfish wish, a sense of restless impatience flickered within me.

Kagetoki: ......

Suddenly, he reached out and ruffled my hair.

Yoshino: Nnh...... hey, what are you doing?

Kagetoki: Wasn't I just giving you a clear, easy-to-read sign of my desire to dote on you?

Kagetoki: You were making such a remarkably devoted face, after all.

Yoshino: I-I most certainly was not! Actually, I'm quite difficult to read myself!

Kagetoki: Is that so? You really are quite adorable, Yoshino.

Yoshino: Are you even listening to me......?

I tried to raise my voice in protest—

But for some reason, I couldn't bring myself to pull away from the touch of his lithe fingers through my hair.

—

The next morning......

Kagetoki-san and I finally set foot in the Imperial Court.

Yoshino: So this is the heart of the capital, the City of Flowers......

I walked slowly, stepping carefully along the long corridors.

Kagetoki: It is a place where monsters and spirits gather. Take care that you aren't devoured.

Yoshino: Oh, you’re exaggerating again.

I was just starting to feel the tension ease and turned to give Kagetoki-san a smile when—

???: Boo!

Yoshino: Whoa!

Someone suddenly shouted from behind me, and I instinctively leaped back in surprise.

Yasuchika: Ta-da! It’s Yasuchika-chan, back by popular demand. Yoshino-san, Kage-san, long time no see!

Yoshino: Yasuchika-san! I-it’s been a while.

Kagetoki: And there it is. A monster has appeared.

Yasuchika: I’m honored you think so! Though I’m technically the one on the side of the monster hunters!

(He hasn't changed a bit.)

Yasuchika: I came all this way specifically to be your guide. Aren't I great?

Kagetoki: Oh? Our plan was to go around paying our respects to the high-ranking officials of the Ministry of Central Affairs. Has there been a change?

Yasuchika: Yep. Because today...... the Emperor wishes to see you.

Yoshino: The Emperor!?

Kagetoki: —How rare. To think we would be granted an audience.

Kagetoki: I heard he had been bedridden for quite some time now.

Yasuchika: ......

I blinked, feeling as though I saw a shadow flicker within Yasuchika-san’s narrowed eyes.

Yasuchika: Well, yeah. He’s apparently feeling much better today, so this is a special occasion. Aren't you two lucky?

I stole a glance at Kagetoki-san, but as expected, he didn't even bat an eye.

Kagetoki: I see. Then lead the way.

(......This is completely unexpected, but all I can do is follow them.)

(Behind this bamboo screen, the most important person in all of Hinomoto is waiting......)

I couldn't see a figure, but I could sense a presence on the other side of the screen.

Kagetoki: Yasuchika-dono, this is for you.

Kagetoki-san handed over a secret letter from the Shogunate.

Yasuchika: Received.

Yasuchika-san stepped forward quietly......

He knelt with such graceful, reverent movements it was mesmerizing, and gently slid the letter behind the bamboo screen.

Yasuchika: ......

Remaining still and appearing to listen intently, Yasuchika-san eventually turned his gaze toward Kagetoki-san and me.

Yasuchika: —I shall relay the Emperor's words. He says, "I appreciate your hard work in traveling such a long distance. You should take this time to relax here in Kyoto."

(......! Yasuchika-san is acting so formal and proper...... It's like he's a completely different person from a moment ago.)

Kagetoki: We are unworthy of such gracious words.

Following Kagetoki-san’s lead as he gave a flawless bow, I pressed my hands to the floor and prostrated myself as well.

Kagetoki: This is Yoshino. As you are aware, she is the maiden who has entered into a contract with the nine-tailed fox.

Kagetoki: She works diligently every day as a collaborator with the Shogunate.

Yoshino: ......It is an honor to meet you. My name is Yoshino.

Keeping my head bowed, I recited the formal introduction I had practiced with Kagetoki-san.

Yoshino: Though I am but a person of little consequence, I intend to devote myself fully to the sake of Hinomoto.

(Good, I managed to say it without tripping over my words.)

Yasuchika once again received a whisper from behind the bamboo screen.

Yasuchika: You two, please raise your heads.

As I looked up, my eyes met Yasuchika-san’s expressionless gaze.

Yasuchika: ......The Emperor is concerned.

Yasuchika: He asks, "Even if she is possessed by a fox spirit, is she not still just a common village girl? Will she not simply become a little fox cub hunted before bloodthirsty beasts?"

(......It's a perfectly valid question.)

Since I haven't even found the unique perspective Kagetoki-san mentioned yet, I still have no real track record or firm convictions.

Just as I was secretly biting my lip in frustration......

Kagetoki: If I may be permitted to speak in response, this Yoshino is no mere village girl.

(K-Kagetoki-san.)

Kagetoki-san began to speak quietly, his eyes fixed forward as if staring straight through the screen.

Kagetoki: Even among the rough and tumble Kamakura samurai, she is a rare existence who has earned the trust of everyone around her.

Kagetoki: Originally, the Shogunate requested Yoshino's cooperation as a personal favor......

Kagetoki: But now, she has become an indispensable trump card in our great war against the rebellion.

(......To think he would say something like that about me.)

A wave of emotion far greater than I expected welled up inside me, making my chest tremble.

Yasuchika: ........

After Yasuchika-san lowered his eyes to listen to the Emperor's response......

A faint, mysterious smile played across his lips.

Yasuchika: —He says, "I have high expectations for you."

Afterward—

Seeing that I was still unable to shake my tension even after the audience had ended, Kagetoki-san took me out to the gardens.

Kagetoki: You did well to see that through. A job well done.

Yoshino: Kagetoki-san...

I stood facing Kagetoki-san by the edge of a pond where flowers bloomed in profusion.

Yoshino: Thank you for earlier! Even if you were just saying that for appearances, it made me so happy.

Kagetoki: I don’t feel particularly obligated to put the Emperor’s mind at ease.

Kagetoki: I was simply speaking my true feelings.

(Eh?)

Kagetoki-san touched my cheek, which had begun to glow with a lingering warmth.

Kagetoki: You should learn to give yourself a fair evaluation based on your achievements. Though I suppose that is a difficult task for someone as virtuous as you.

Yoshino: ......What am I going to do?

Kagetoki: ......?

Yoshino: When you praise me like that, Kagetoki-san, I honestly don't know how I'm supposed to react......

In my agitation, the words spilled out with far too much honesty.

Kagetoki: Do you find it unsatisfying when I'm not teasing you?

Yoshino: Definitely not!

As I rushed to deny it, Kagetoki-san gave a faint smile.

Kagetoki: You are a troublesome person.

Kagetoki: I suppose it can't be helped. I've learned my lesson, so I shall resolve never to praise you again.

Yoshino: Ah, well, that's not exactly...

Kagetoki: So, you're saying you want me to praise you more? Thank you for such an adorable request.

Yoshino: Um, in moderation? Please, just in moderation......

Feeling embarrassed by our playful banter, I decided to change the subject quickly.

Yoshino: Er, well, anyway...... are we going to go regroup with your subordinates now?

Kagetoki: No, let's finish a bit more work that can only be done in this area first.

(Work that can only be done in this area?)

Kagetoki: Information is not something merely obtained through spies.

Kagetoki: Sometimes, it is something you must go out and reel in yourself.

Noble 1: Come now, Kagetoki-dono. Have a drink.

Kagetoki: I accept with gratitude.

—Several hours later, Kagetoki-san and I were at a banquet where a great number of court nobles had gathered.

Noble 2: It is rare for Kagetoki-dono to accept an invitation from the likes of us.

Kagetoki: My duties keep me quite occupied, so I am truly pained by my own lack of social graces.

As Kagetoki-san answered politely, the nobles wore smiles hidden behind the shadows of their fans.

(This is such an unsettling banquet.)

(Kagetoki-san said he was attending to sniff out the relationships among the nobles......)

(But can he really learn that much detail just by talking like this?)

For a while now, Kagetoki-san had been flawlessly entertaining their gossip while exchanging words about the current state of affairs in Kyoto with various people.

Kagetoki: Speaking of which, I heard the moon-viewing party held at Arashiyama the other day was quite a lively affair.

Noble 3: Oh, you are well-informed. It seems Takaoka-dono has established a new estate, and everyone was eager to see it.

Kagetoki: Ho...... How extravagant.

Noble 4: Takaoka-dono has certainly been quite prosperous lately.

Noble 5: —Speaking of prosperity, surely he pales in comparison to Kagetoki-dono?

(Eh?)

Suddenly, a voice laced with malice flew in from the side.

Noble 6: Ah, yes. There are those with wagging tongues who claim Kagetoki-dono is the shadow ruler of the Shogunate.

Noble 6: If you truly have the power to siphon off war funds like water, I must say I am quite envious.

Noble 7: Good heavens, the thought of using money washed in blood is far too terrifying for me.

Noble 7: Of course, none of us believe such rumors, do we?

(......! How could they?)

Even the people who had been speaking so amiably until a moment ago were now waiting expectantly for Kagetoki-san's reaction.

A smile like a thin blade flickered across Kagetoki-san's lips.

Kagetoki: The imagination of those in the capital is truly as robust as they say.

Kagetoki: I hear many of you have been attending poetry readings day after day lately. I suppose that is how you hone your sensibilities?

Kagetoki: I would dearly love to learn what sort of poems are being presented at such gatherings.

Noble 7: Wh—

Kagetoki: Are they poems of romance, or perhaps...... poems of other secret matters?

(Wait, what is he talking about?)

Lacing his words with an ominous undertone, Kagetoki-san’s gaze swept across the room, scrutinizing every face without exception.

As the nobles stopped their chirping and fell into a dead silence—

Suddenly, the dry sound of someone’s mocking laughter rang out.

???: It seems the rumors were true; Kajiwara Kagetoki, the Shogunate’s strategist, has a truly nasty streak.

Kagetoki: —And you are?

Ibuki: Ibuki. That’s what you can call me. And don't bother with the honorifics.

Kagetoki: Forgive me, but your family name?

Ibuki: I don't have one....... Or so I’d like to say, but how about we play a little game?

Ibuki: If you can beat me, I’ll let you in on the secret of who I really am.

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Chapter 10

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Mitsuki: I...... I'm returning to my world on the night of the next full moon.

I'd had a bad feeling ever since Mitsuki arrived with that solemn look on her face.

(Don't go. Stay by my side.)

Drake: .......I see. That's good news then.

Contrary to the true feelings that threatened to overflow, the words that left my mouth were nothing but a harmless platitude.

Drake: A toast to your smooth voyage, little fawn. It’s a good thing, having a place to return to.

Mitsuki: Yeah...... I guess so.

(Unlike me, she actually has a home to go back to. I have to see her off with a smile.)

That was what I had told myself, and yet.

Drake: .......Don't go.

A faint trace of lingering regret had seeped out, and in the next heartbeat, it completely consumed my chest.

(Tough luck, little fawn...... Showing me a weakness like that was the end of your run.)

But on the morning of our final meeting, the day we had promised to see each other one last time—Mitsuki never showed up.

...

Mitsuki: Um...... who are you?

(To think she’s gone and forgotten me completely, without leaving a single trace.)

Drake: God really is a cruel bastard, isn't he?

As I muttered the words, remembering the way Mitsuki had looked at me as if I were a total stranger, the Comte tilted his head.

Comte de Saint-Germain: Forgetting only you... I suspect there must be some meaning behind it, but......

Drake: Maybe I’m just being punished for my wicked schemes.

Comte de Saint-Germain: Do you have something specific in mind?

Drake: I’m telling you now—I’m taking the little fawn tonight.

Comte de Saint-Germain: I have no intention of stopping you. Do as you wish.

I raised an eyebrow, surprised by his response.

Drake: I figured you’d be the one to object.

Comte de Saint-Germain: Mitsuki had been wavering for a long time on whether or not to return to her own world. Though, in her current state, she has forgotten that as well.

(Mitsuki was hesitant about going back to her original world...?)

Drake: Then why did she forget me? ......If she wanted to go home so badly, wouldn't she have just cut me loose?

Comte de Saint-Germain: That is something only Mitsuki herself can answer.

Comte de Saint-Germain: If she returns to her world without her memories, I am certain she will live to regret it.

Comte de Saint-Germain: —And that is why I am telling you this.

True to my word, I brought Mitsuki back with me, but she didn't seem to remember a thing even after seeing the room.

But—

Mitsuki: I’m not running away. I feel like...... I need to remember you.

While Mitsuki was trying to face me head-on—

(I want her to remember me....... And yet, I don't.)

My hope for her memories to return shifted into a sense of dread.

(If Mitsuki gets her memories back, she'll also remember exactly why she wanted to forget me in the first place.)

—In the end, my feelings for Mitsuki kept circling back to the exact same place.

Drake: Mitsuki, I love you.

I forced out the words I had failed to say that day.

(If I’m just going to hesitate and lose what’s important to me all over again, then I don't care if our past memories are gone forever.)

(No matter what version of Mitsuki she is, nothing changes. I'm going to make her mine.)

I stole her lips with a forceful kiss, fully expecting her to slap me across the face, and yet......

Mitsuki: I’ve loved you this whole time, too, Drake.

Mitsuki: The thought of being apart from you was so painful...... that I forgot you.

Mitsuki: I didn't think I could bear the thought of leaving while still being in love with you......

Mitsuki: But it was no use. Even without my memories, I just fall in love with you all over again.

(......It was all for my sake?)

Mitsuki: So please, Drake. Take me with you, and make me yours alone.

Drake: You don’t even have to ask. Once a pirate gets his hands on a treasure, he never lets it go.

I whispered the words, pulling Mitsuki close as she clung to me.

Drake: Just as you wish—I’m taking you away.

...

As soon as we returned to the room, I pressed Mitsuki down onto the bed, still cradling her in my arms.

Mitsuki: Drake...... I’m so sorry for forgetting you for so long.

Drake: Stop apologizing already. I didn't care one bit, even if your memories were gone.

Drake: Because no matter what, you're still Mitsuki.

Mitsuki: I know, but...... mgh.

I silenced her as she tried to continue her apology by pressing a finger to her lips, then reached for her clothes.

Drake: I knew that no matter what version of you I was facing, I’d just end up loving you in the end.

As I stripped away her clothes and let my hand slide over her exposed skin, Mitsuki’s body gave a small shiver.

Mitsuki: Ah, Drake......!

Drake: I’m going to teach you how a pirate shows his love. You’d better learn it well.

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IkeVamp Masterlist

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After taking me away from the mansion, Drake led me straight to an unfamiliar room.

Mitsuki: Is this...... Drake’s home?

Drake: Yeah. You probably don't remember, but you've been here many times.

Mitsuki: Many times......?

As I looked around the room with a strange sensation, I discovered something.

(This shell bottle...... I’ve seen this before.)

Drake: That’s my treasure. The person who made it said that if you hold onto it, your wishes will come true.

Mitsuki: That’s lovely...... It’s like holding the ocean in the palm of your hand.

Drake: Those words just now......

Mitsuki: Oh...... was that weird? It’s just what came to mind.

Drake: No, it’s not that it was weird......

In that moment, several flashes of memory crossed my mind, overlapping with the sight of Drake.

A half-finished bottle and various materials.

The morning sun streaming in the moment it was completed.

A carefully tied ribbon—

Mitsuki: Wait...... did I make this?

Drake: .......Yeah.

But I couldn't remember anything beyond that, and I quietly cast my gaze downward.

Drake: Take your time and think about it. I don't want to get in your way, so I'll head outside for a bit.

(Even if he tells me to think about it......)

Left alone, I looked around the room and sat down on the sofa.

Picking up a hat that had been left there haphazardly, the scent of the tide tickled my nose.

(Is this Drake’s scent? Maybe if I do this, I’ll be able to remember something.)

As I closed my eyes, enveloped by the strangely calming fragrance, my eyelids grew heavy before I knew it......

My peaceful slumber was broken not by the morning sun, but by the shrill squawking of a bird.

Draco: Wake up! Wake up! Wake up!

Mitsuki: Oh, honestly! Draco, be quiet!

I leaped up and shouted at the parrot flying around the room before I suddenly froze.

(Did I just call him... Draco...?)

Scanning the room, my eyes landed on Drake, who was fast asleep in a chair with his arms crossed.

(If he was back, he should have slept somewhere more comfortable...... I wonder if he stayed by my side all night.)

Since he didn't wake even as I approached, I quietly peered at his sleeping face.

As I gazed at his handsome features, a strange, sweet ache tightened in my chest.

(But I still can't remember anything......)

(What was our relationship? Could it be that we were... lovers... or something?)

Drake: You done staring at me yet?

My heart nearly leaped out of my chest when Drake, who I thought was fast asleep, spoke to me.

Mitsuki: Y-you were awake?

Drake: You were sneaking up on me so quietly, I figured you were planning to jump me while I was still out.

Mitsuki: I-I would never do such a thing!

Drake: Pity. Then...... maybe you were planning to make a run for it?

Drake’s eyes turned serious, but I shook my head.

Mitsuki: I’m not running away. I feel like...... I need to remember you.

Mitsuki: So...... I’ll stay with you until the next time the door opens.

Drake: ......Heh, so you're finally coming around, are you?

Drake’s expression softened.

Bolstered by that look on his face, I found myself speaking.

Mitsuki: Hey, what exactly was our relationship? Could it be—

Before I could finish, Drake pressed a finger to my lips—

Drake: We’re friends. Good buddies, you and I.

Drake: So...... you stay here as long as you like.

—

—As the days passed with just the two of us, I began to notice something.

Every little gesture he made, every expression that crossed his face, made my heart hammer against my ribs.

(I knew it. I must have had special feelings for Drake.)

(But if that’s the case...... why did I forget him and only him?)

I wrestled with that frustration, unable to find an answer, until one day—

Drake: It won’t be long now until the door opens again.

Looking up at the night sky from the window, Drake turned his gaze toward me.

Drake: Even if your memories don’t come back...... do you still plan to return to your world when the time comes?

Mitsuki: ......Yeah, that’s the plan.

(My lost memories bother me, but...... if I stay with Drake any longer, I know I won't be able to leave.)

Drake: I see. ......It’s a good thing, having a place to return to.

Mitsuki: My place to return to...... is it really on the other side of that door?

Drake: ......!

As those words spilled casually from my lips, I thought I saw his shoulders give a small tremor.

(I......)

I didn't understand it, but my heart was aching so loudly it was almost painful.

(I...... I want Drake to ask me to stay.)

Drake: .......Tomorrow, there’s somewhere I want to take you. Come with me.

With that, Drake left the room, just as he had the night before.

—

The following day, after a night where sleep barely came to me, he took me to the banks of the Seine.

Drake: On the morning you were supposed to return to your original world, we were meant to meet right here.

Drake: That day, I stood here waiting for you the whole time. To keep our promise.

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Premium End

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(Wait, was I asleep......?)

(I was waiting for Mitsunari-kun to come back from his meeting with Nobunaga-sama and the others, but......)

Exhaustion from the day must have caught up with me. I blinked my eyes open with a yawn, only to find.......

Mitsunari: Ah, Mai-sama.

(.....!)

I was being watched by Mitsunari-kun from right beside me.

Mai: You're so close...... W-Wait, what's wrong?

Mitsunari: I was observing your sleeping face, Mai-sama.

Mai: Observing?

Mitsunari: It was very lovely.

(That innocent smile of his is blinding......)

(No, no, more importantly!)

I hurriedly sat up from my makeshift futon and tried to fix my hair.

Mai: Um, I didn't say anything weird in my sleep, did I?

Mitsunari: No, you were so quiet I actually started to worry.

Mitsunari: Once I leaned in and felt your breathing, I was finally able to relax.

(So that’s why he was so close. I really have been making him worry this whole time.)

Mai: It’s okay, I feel great.

Mai: I was feeling listless for a while, but I'm fine now. I don't think I have a fever either.

Mitsunari: May I touch you?

Mai: Of course.

Mitsunari: Then, excuse me.

(Wha......?)

Before I knew it, he had closed the distance, and our foreheads lightly bumped together.

(Wait, is that what he meant by touching me?)

Mitsunari: ......? Why do you look so surprised?

Mai: Well...... I thought you were going to check for a fever with your palm.

Mitsunari blinked as if he’d just realized something.

Mitsunari: O-Oh, I'm sorry. I thought this would be easier to tell......

Mitsunari: ......No, that's not it. It was simply what I wanted to do.

(Ugh, he's so cute......)

As Mitsunari-kun's gaze darted around, my heart gave a sweet throb.

Mai: I think I might have just developed a bit of a fever after all.

Mitsunari: ........I believe I might have as well.

(He’s right, his eyes are a little red.)

(I wonder if his heart is racing just like mine?)

Between the relief of the war ending and the security of having Mitsunari-kun by my side, both my body and soul felt light.

Mitsunari: It seems you don't have a fever. I'm glad.

Mitsunari: It’s possible the broken "future" has returned to normal.

Mai: Does that mean those strange occurrences won't happen anymore?

Mitsunari: Yes. While we haven't captured Kicho-dono and Motonari-dono, we were able to deplete their military strength.

Mitsunari: We won't let our guard down, of course, but I doubt they’ll have the power to start a war or a rebellion for some time.

(I see. Thank goodness......)

Mai: It’s all thanks to you for coming up with the plan that led the Oda army to victory, Mitsunari-kun.

Mitsunari: Please, such praise is undeserved. It was only possible because of everyone's cooperation.

(That's true, but still......)

I took Mitsunari-kun’s hands as we sat facing each other.

Mai: I think your power to trust in everyone is what won out over Kicho-san and Motonari-san.

Mitsunari: Eh......

I remember what happened when the battle ended and we returned to camp—

..

Men: Mitsunari-sama......!

As I dismounted the horse with Mitsunari-kun, several familiar faces came running toward us.

Mitsunari: Thank you all for your hard work. You performed even better than I had hoped.

Townsperson 1: Please, don't distance yourself with such thanks.

Townsperson 2: He's right! We were prepared to give our all for you, Mitsunari-sama, after you saved our lives and our town!

(These people... they're the townspeople Mitsunari-kun showed mercy to before, aren't they?)

Not only had they participated in this battle as soldiers, but they had also worked with their lord to provide funds and food.

Furthermore, the survivors from that village were so grateful to Mitsunari-kun for his help in their reconstruction that they played a massive role as a scout unit. They used their knowledge of the terrain to gather intelligence and sever the enemy's communication networks.

..

(The villagers feeling indebted is one thing, but the townspeople—who used to turn a blind eye to their own crimes—have truly changed.)

(That makes me so happy.)

Mai: I really do believe it was your power to believe in others that protected the future, Mitsunari-kun.

Mai: It must have given hope to those within the Oda army who were leaning toward betrayal out of paranoia.

Mitsunari: Do you... really think so?

Mai: I do!

In the end, Kicho and Motonari’s faction found that their own schemes no longer functioned. They were defeated by an Oda army united by the power of trust.

(Besides, I heard it from Motonari-san too......)

..

Kicho: Sowing seeds of hatred and suspicion among close associates and kin is where the greatest effect is felt.

Kicho: .......This is a plan you never would have conceived in the past.

Mitsunari: Yes. It involves doubting people, betraying them, and making them betray others. It is a strategy that preys upon the weakness, greed, and malice of the heart.

..

(It's incredible how the plan Mitsunari-kun came up with transformed into a strategy of "trusting, helping, and being helped by others.")

Just as I was feeling a renewed sense of admiration for him.....

(Huh?)

For some reason, Mitsunari-kun looked down at our joined hands with a sorrowful expression.

Mai: What's wrong?

Mitsunari: We were victorious. However... it left a mark, didn't it?

(Ah...... there's a faint mark left from the shackles.)

His long fingers brushed against my wrist as if trying to soothe the skin.

Mai: Don't worry about it. It’ll fade and disappear eventually.

Mitsunari: Even if that is true—

Mitsunari: This is proof that you risked your life for my sake....... I, Mitsunari, shall carve this into my heart for as long as I live.

Mai: ....!

Mitsunari-kun knit his brows and pressed his lips to my wrist.

The heat of his lips made my skin shiver, but at the same time, a wave of bittersweetness washed over me.

(From Mitsunari-kun’s perspective, this is also proof of his own sins.)

Unable to stand it, I buried my fingers in Mitsunari-kun’s hair, pulling him close and holding his head to my chest.

Mai: Mitsunari-kun. There’s been so much pain and sadness, hasn't there?

Mai: But let's carry it all together.

Mai: From now on, don't ever suffer alone. Let me support you, the person I love so much.

Mitsunari: Mai-sama......

(Mm..., wait—)

Mitsunari-kun slowly looked up, smiled at me, and pressed a brief kiss to my lips.

Mitsunari: Yes, I promise.

Mitsunari: Your pain is mine. Your sorrow is also mine.

Mai: Your joy is mine. Your happiness is also mine.

Mitsunari: This love belongs—eternally—to the two of us.

(I'm so happy......)

(He feels the same way I do.)

As I tightened my arms around him, a soft breath escaped Mitsunari-kun’s lips.

Mitsunari: ......Mai-sama, I have a request.

Mai: Eh?

Mitsunari: I intended to endure until we returned to Azuchi. However...... it is simply impossible.

Mitsunari: If I did not hold you now, I would regret it.........

Being pierced by those feverish violet eyes made my heart hammer like a bell.

(I want him to know...... how much I thought of him while we were apart.)

Mai: You don’t need to worry about regret. I’m right here with you.

Mitsunari: You are too, Mai-sama?

Mai: Yeah, I wanted to feel your warmth... ah.........

My words were cut off by a kiss as Mitsunari-kun leaned over me.

He urgently hitched up my hem, and his palm slid against my inner thigh.

Mai: Nnh...... ah......

Mitsunari: Please, feel my warmth as much as you desire.

(And here I was thinking how cute he was just a moment ago......)

(But he already has the face of a man.)

His sultry voice vibrating against my eardrums made my chest ache with longing.

Mai: That’s not fair...... You're way too handsome.

Mitsunari: You mustn't provoke me with such a lovely smile.

Mai: Ah...... stop.........

My body jolted as he traced a sensitive spot with his tongue.

Despite that, Mitsunari-kun showed no mercy, nipping at my skin and pushing his long fingers deeper inside.

Mai: Mitsunari... kun.........

Mitsunari: Don’t look away from me...... for I will not look away from you.

Our skin pressed together without a gap as our flushed bodies began to melt into one another.

My vision blurred with tears as I clung to him.

(I can’t... I’m going to lose my mind.)

Mitsunari: I love you......... I could not find......... any other words.

Mai: Ah...... I love you too.........

With my kimono cast aside, a wave of heat filled me.

We traded kisses, our tongues intertwining, as we were enveloped in bliss.

(Ah...... reaching out and touching him like this, it finally feels real.)

(I’m not a reaper anymore. I can live my life with Mitsunari-kun......)

There was a moment on that ship when I’d given up on living.

But I was okay now.

I wished with all my heart to share every moment of the life ahead of me with my precious Mitsunari-kun.

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Passionate Ending Chapter 16

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It all began several weeks ago—

Emma’s room had been ransacked by an intruder.

When I visited her room, I found Emma standing there, frozen in shock amidst the wreckage.

Relieved to see she was unharmed, I pulled her slender body into an embrace, only for her to look up at me with an expression full of apology.

Emma: I’m sorry. Even the seashell hair ornament you gave me, Silvio-sama...... it was stolen too......

Silvio: Like that matters.

Emma: It does matter! That hair ornament is a precious memento to me.

My chest tightened at those words, because the memories Emma spoke of were just as irreplaceable to me.

(Dammit. Of all the things to take, they had to steal that.)

..

Whenever we walked along the shore together, I’d watched Emma’s face light up at the sight of seashells time and time again.

She would pick them up and try to bring them home like they were the most important things in the world, so I’d even gone as far as having one processed into a necklace for her once.

(She made a much better face than when I gave her expensive jewelry.)

(You’re way too pure...... Thanks to that, even I’m starting to act out of character.)

Emma: Ah, this one is just like the shell I liked and brought home when we went for a walk before!

Emma: It’s such a beautiful color....... I think I’ll take one home as a souvenir.

(You’d think things would change as time passes, but why are you always like this—)

(How can you make a face like that over a worthless shell just rolling around on the ground?)

Emma kept the shells she collected in a jar and treated them with such care. Watching her gaze at them happily as they caught the morning sun had recently become a part of my daily routine.

(I realized I wanted to see that joyful face of yours more often. That’s why......)

When I gave her the custom-made hair ornament modeled after those shells, Emma’s face lit up like a flower in bloom.

Silvio: I had the craftsman look at the real thing to find a stone with the closest possible shade. It’s a rare gem that hardly ever hits the market.

Emma: Thank you so much!

Emma’s innocent, carefree smile looked many times more brilliant than the sparkling water behind her.

..

(I can't buy back the smile Emma had that day with money, but......)

I pulled the corners of my mouth up and deliberately forced out words that contradicted my heart.

Silvio: Whether it’s stolen or lost, if it can be bought with money, I’ll buy you as many as you want.

(I don't want to see you looking like this. I have to put your mind at ease soon.)

(And...... I’m definitely getting back what was stolen.)

(Even if I have to use methods that mean planting one foot firmly on a villainous path.)

Silvio: The thing that can't be bought is safe. For now, that’s enough.

I pulled Emma into an embrace as I spoke my heartfelt thoughts.

From that point on, in addition to further strengthening security measures, I conducted a thorough investigation into the servants and the merchants coming in and out of the castle.

At the same time, I decided to set a trap of my own for the culprit—

(There was that underground auction I’d been letting run so I could sweep up everyone involved in one go. This is the perfect chance to use it.)

I stormed into the manor I’d scouted out just as the auction was ending. I kicked the organizer as he tried to flee and grabbed him by the scruff of his neck.

Silvio: I’m buying out everything, including the building. As of now, I’m the one running this auction.

Organizer: Wh—but, um......

Silvio: I’m not asking. You’re going to pay for managing an illegal trade, but if you want to lighten your sentence even a fraction, you’ll hand it over quietly right now.

(Items stolen from the castle... They’d be cautious about trying to sell them off.)

(But at an underground auction where thieves and stolen goods congregate, there’s a high probability the culprit will show up.)

(I’ll become the host of this auction and smoke the rat out myself.)

"The next event will be an exclusive gathering for guests with a taste for rare jewelry, designed to drive up the bidding prices."

I used my money to spread the rumors. After that, all I had to do was catch the culprit I’d lured in, but—

(Tch. I never imagined Emma would pull a stunt like that.)

Even after I told her I wasn't a participant but the organizer, Emma wouldn't back down for a second.

Emma: In that case, let me participate in the auction too!

Silvio: Hah? Absolutely not. Are you a complete idiot?

(I didn't tell you it was a trap because I didn't want to involve you in something dangerous.)

Looking at Emma’s worried face made my heart stir with an uncontrollable restlessness.

I’d pinned her to the bed just to get her to go to sleep for the night, but Emma wrapped her arms around my neck and pulled me into a tight embrace.

Silvio: What do you think you’re doing all of a sudden!

Emma: I... I’ll go to sleep now, I won't ask anything else. So, please, at least one last—

Driven by her unusually assertive attitude as she pecked at my lips again and again, I let the provocation take hold and used my tongue to invade and churn through the inside of Emma’s mouth.

Emma: Nnh......

As we traded deep, repeated kisses, Emma’s fingers suddenly brushed against my trousers.

(......Right. I’d shoved the invitation in my pocket.)

When I put together everything we’d talked about and Emma’s completely uncharacteristic behavior, only one conclusion remained.

(You’re planning to pick my pocket for that invitation and join the auction yourself, aren't you?)

A smirk almost escaped me at the thought of the bold plan she’d cooked up out of sheer desperation.

(......You really are something else. It’s painfully obvious, but I’ll play along as a reward for your guts.)

Silvio: Hah. You’ve certainly become quite the submissive one, haven’t you?

Emma: I just wanted to be spoiled.

Emma: I felt a little lonely realizing there’s still a side of Silvio-sama that I don’t know......

Silvio: Is that so? Then I guess I’ll have to give you plenty of love tonight until you’re begging me to stop, won't I?

Perhaps fearing her hidden prize would be discovered, Emma shed her own clothes. I let my lips wander over her skin, teasing her until her slender body began to tremble.

Silvio: Making a face like that from just this is proof of how sensitive your body’s become.

I slid my hand down her thigh and reached into her damp heat, stirring inside her.

Emma: Ah!

After that, I kept her melting in pleasure until her consciousness finally faded......

(You’ve certainly become quite the wicked woman, haven’t you?)

I brushed my finger against her sleeping face—which looked far too innocent to belong to a "wicked woman"—and pressed a kiss to her temple.

...

And then, the day of the underground auction arrived—

Just as I’d planned, the seashell hair ornament was brought in for the auction.

I summoned the man who brought it to the waiting room and kicked him, sending him tumbling easily to the floor.

Silvio: So you’re the culprit.

I ground my foot into him, and I could feel his body trembling through the sole of my boot.

Silvio: A servant who worked at the palace, huh? I thought you looked familiar.

Mysterious Man: H-hyeeh! I’m so sorry!

Silvio: You’re the one who committed this outrage. I trust you’re prepared to pay the price?

Mysterious Man: Uugh......

Just as I was glaring down at the utterly terrified man—

Emma: What are you doing!?

Emma appeared in the room, staring at us with eyes wide in shock.

Silvio: You...... Not only did you swipe that invitation, but you actually barged your way in here after all.

Silvio: You really are an impossible woman to deal with.

(I won't tell you that your guts are part of what I like about you, though.)

Once I handed the man over to the knights, Emma finally let out a smile of relief, but a moment later, her face filled with even greater surprise.

Emma: Silvio-sama, is that......!?

Emma’s gaze was fixed on the seashell hair ornament.

(Finally noticed, did you?)

Emma: You became the organizer of the underground auction just to set a trap for this, didn't you, Silvio-sama?

Silvio: Hey, wipe that grin off your face.

Emma: I’m sorry...... I’m just so happy, I couldn't help it.

Emma: Silvio-sama, thank you so much. Truly.

Silvio: I didn't do anything worth being thanked for. It just didn't sit right with me, that’s all.

Emma: Even if that's the case, I’m just so happy you got my precious hair ornament back for me.

Dressed in her finest, Emma reached out happily toward the ornament.

(Dammit, you’re way too cute.)

(If it means getting to see this smile, then it was definitely worth getting back.)

A sense of fulfillment that money could never buy filled my chest, and a smile nearly tugged at my own lips.

(But simply handing it over wouldn't be very like me.)

Watching Emma’s smile deepen, a certain playful streak began to stir.

(It’s your fault for making a face that practically invites trouble, you know?)

Silvio: I never said I’d give it back for free.

Silvio: This is an auction venue. If you want this hair ornament, you’re going to have to outbid everyone else for me.

.

.

.

.

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IkePri Masterlist

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Monday. It was time for my internship to resume.

Early in the morning, I had just sat down at my desk when I received a notification regarding my work.

During my time as an intern, I had gained a much deeper understanding of our product, "Boundless," and I’d begun reaching out to the experts on my preliminary invitation list during office hours.

The message I received today came from a well-known figure in the world of art.

The artist expressed a desire for us to meet and communicate in person.

I brought the matter to Li Cheng’s attention.

According to Li Cheng, this gentleman has achieved great heights in the field of classical art and almost never accepts commercial engagements.

This was a rare opportunity; regardless of the outcome, it was worth going and trying to talk to him.

However, the project team couldn't spare any other staff, so I would have to make the business trip on my own—with all expenses covered by the company.

Li Cheng: Are you free during this time? If not, I can arrange for someone else to go.

I didn't have many classes lately, so I was actually quite free.

Me: I’m free. I can go.

Li Cheng: Then I’ll have to trouble you. I’ll approve a few extra days for your business trip; just think of it as a little getaway to clear your head.

The day after the approval process was finalized, I arrived at my destination.

The address of the artist I was supposed to visit was right near West Lake, and I found it without much trouble.

However, after explaining the purpose of my visit, I didn't get to see the artist himself; instead, I was met by the household's butler.

The butler explained that the artist had suddenly fallen ill and was resting at home, and he apologized for the lack of advance notice.

I gave it some thought; since I didn't have anything pressing to attend to and wasn't in any rush to head back, I told him I could wait a few days and return once the artist was feeling better.

Butler: I am truly sorry, but it seems Miss Y/N may have to wait a few more days.

Butler: Oh, that reminds me—there is one more thing. Would Miss Y/N be willing to do me a small favor?

The butler mentioned that the artist is getting older and has difficulty moving around, but since the air in Hangzhou is so fresh lately and the scenery at West Lake is a rare beauty, he had a request.

He hoped to commission me to take a few photos by the lake to serve as reference for the artist’s upcoming paintings.

Butler: I had originally asked someone else to take them, but the Master wasn't quite satisfied with any of the photos they brought back.

Butler: Since Miss Y/N will be in Hangzhou for the next few days anyway, I was wondering if I could trouble you to help us take a few shots? We will cover all associated costs, of course.

I felt the request was a bit strange. Would a professional partner normally ask something like this of a collaborator?

I looked at the butler, trying to find a crack in his expression that might justify my suspicion.

But he simply maintained a polite smile, seemingly seeing nothing wrong with the request he had just made.

Isn't it even more unreasonable that he doesn't think his request is unreasonable?

Or was I just overthinking things?

Then again, a business trip is really just working from a different location...

After a moment’s thought, I decided to agree for now. After all, I was here to secure a partnership; I couldn't very well refuse a direct request like this to his face.

If he ended up being dissatisfied and pulled out of the deal, then this whole trip really would have been for nothing.

I might as well treat it like a vacation and snap a few photos along the way.

Me: Alright, though I can't guarantee the Master will like what I capture.

Butler: Thank you ever so much.

Butler: It’s just for reference, so please, Miss Y/N, feel free to take them according to your own tastes.

Butler: These are the specific locations and angles the Master is looking for.

Butler: The scenery of West Lake is always fresh to the eyes; perhaps Miss Y/N will be able to capture something truly special.

The butler handed me a few photos along with a digital camera.

He told me I could use these photos as a reference for the angles and to contact him whenever if I had any questions.

I looked over the photos in my hand.

I couldn't tell when they were taken, but the locations were all easily recognizable landmarks.

They were Broken Bridge, Leifeng Pagoda, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, and Lingyin Temple.

None of these places were very far apart. It was currently noon, and the closest spot to the artist's residence was Broken Bridge.

I could start there.

I strolled slowly along the West Lake promenade, taking in the scenery as I walked, and after crossing two streets, I arrived at Broken Bridge.

The camera the butler gave me appeared to be a high-end digital model; the controls weren't overly complicated, and after a bit of tinkering, I had a general idea of how to use it.

Comparing it with the photo, I found a nearly identical vantage point, then raised the camera and pressed the shutter.

The petals drifted over the lush banks as the scent of lotus wafted through the air; a cool breeze brushed against the railings by the water, fluttering the hem of my clothes like the ripples on the lake.

I prepared to flip through the photo I had just taken, only to see an ancient, rustic building appearing on the camera screen that hadn't been in the original frame.

At the entrance... there was also a blurred figure with their back turned toward me.

What is this? That definitely wasn't there when I pressed the shutter...

I looked toward that direction once more, and everything seemed normal, yet the screen had undeniably captured something that wasn't there.

A chill crept up from the soles of my feet, sending a shiver down my spine. I instinctively switched off the camera, only feeling a sense of security once the screen went black.

Just as I was hesitating over whether to turn it back on, several streaks of water slid down the dark display.

A sudden coldness and moisture seemed to envelop me instantly; fine droplets of rain began falling continuously against my skin, and the abrupt drop in temperature made me shudder involuntarily.

How did the rain start falling so heavily all of a sudden?

Before I could process the thought, the moment I looked up, my mind went completely blank.

Upon Broken Bridge, the tourists who had been snapping photos with their phones and cameras seemed to have vanished in the blink of an eye.

In their place were pedestrians dressed in ancient attire, hurrying along while wearing bamboo hats or holding oil-paper umbrellas.

Someone even passed by me, casting a strange, sidelong glance my way.

Have I been pulled into another world instance? There wasn't even a moment to buffer.

The rain quickly soaked through my clothes and hair. Casting aside my frantic thoughts, I began to run across the bridge, desperate to find somewhere to take cover.

The various umbrellas of the passersby moved through the willows along the embankment like a cluster of colorful mushrooms.

Just as I reached the center of the bridge, a middle-aged man in a coir raincoat dashed past, and the large bamboo basket overflowing with goods on his shoulder slammed straight into me.

Caught off guard, I lost my footing and began to tumble backward.

But then, a hand caught my wrist and gently pulled me back.

That hand was colder than the rainwater, feeling as though it had been steeped in the depths of a secluded mountain stream from the fingertips to the palm.

A tall figure loomed over me as the umbrellas of the crowd collided, sending a spray of raindrops from the edges of the silks splashing into my eyes. I instinctively closed them.

The bamboo-leaf pattern of the person's oil-paper umbrella flashed briefly before my eyes, and the moment I regained my balance, the surrounding wind and rain completely vanished.

The next instant, I opened my eyes.

The first thing to meet my eyes was a plain white collar, followed by the hand holding the umbrella—his fingers clean and slender.

The man tilted the umbrella toward me, walling off the chaos of the outside world as he spoke with a gentle, polite tone.

???: In the urgency of the moment, I’m afraid I’ve been a bit forward.

???: Please, forgive my intrusion.

That familiar voice and face suddenly filled my senses without warning.

At such a close distance, the ends of our hair drifted in the wind, tangling together ever so slightly.

Amidst the misty drizzle and lush greenery of this water-bound southern town of white walls and black tiles, he looked like a resting heron.

Those lead-gray eyes seemed even more hazy and tender, as if they had been brushed by the clouds and the steam.

It was Yi Yu...

But the way he looked at me was entirely foreign—polite, yet carrying a faint sense of detachment.

He withdrew the hand that had been steadying my wrist.

Yi Yu: The path is slick from the rain. You must be careful.

Me: ......Thank you.

He responded with a faint smile.

Yi Yu: Think nothing of it; it was merely a small courtesy.

Yi Yu: Where are you headed? The rain is picking up; allow me to escort you a part of the way.

Seeing me staring at him like that, Yi Yu paused—perhaps misinterpreting my silence as a lack of trust.

Yi Yu: I can take you as far as the nearest shelter, then you may go your own way once the rain lets up.

Yi Yu: It’s just that...

He glanced around at our surroundings, appearing a bit conflicted.

Yi Yu: There aren't many places to stop and rest nearby...

Yi Yu: If you don't mind, my clinic is close by. You are welcome to sit there for a while until it passes.

I certainly needed a place to take cover, and his proposal provided the perfect opportunity for me to get my bearings.

Besides, even though we were technically strangers right now, I still trusted him more than any other unknown entity in this unfamiliar time and space.

So, I took the chance and agreed.

Me: All right. Thank you for having me.

Yi Yu stepped over to my side.

Yi Yu: It is no trouble at all. Let us go.

We walked forward side by side. Yi Yu guided me to the safer, inner side of the path, all while maintaining a respectful distance between us.

I turned to look at him and noticed that the shoulder exposed to the rain was already completely soaked.

The oil-paper umbrella wasn't very large; for both of us to stay dry, we would have had to press close together.

Yi Yu was clearly mindful of this, choosing to protect my reputation, as the strict social boundaries between men and women in this era were an unspoken rule.

I couldn't help but speak up.

Me: You should move closer, really. It’s fine.

Yi Yu: It matters not. I can simply change into something else later.

Yi Yu: But you... Your clothes are quite thin. I would not want you to catch a chill.

When he reached that pause, his gaze drifted briefly over my more modern attire before quickly darting away.

Even though he seemed a bit embarrassed, that split-second look made me feel as if I were being scrutinized by something cold and dangerous.

Was it just the chill from the wind and rain affecting me?

I wrapped my arms slightly tighter around myself and moved closer to him.

Me: You've been soaked so much already, you might catch a cold too, right?

Me: Let's just pretend we’re bamboo shoots, and it's only our husks that are touching.

Yi Yu looked at me with a hint of surprise, then let out a soft laugh, his eyes crinkling with genuine amusement.

Yi Yu: Why is it that you have turned things around to comfort me?

He spoke the words, yet he didn't pull away again.

Yi Yu: You have a cheerful and innocent nature, but you should still exercise more caution when interacting with strangers in the future.

His tone was gentle, a subtle reminder that I should remain vigilant and keep my guard up.

Of course, I knew that; it was only because it was him that I could afford to be so defenseless.

As we walked, the physical contact between us increased due to our proximity, and being this close allowed me to catch the faint, lingering scent of medicinal herbs clinging to his clothes.

I looked up and met his downward gaze.

My brain seemed to short-circuit for a moment, and I ended up blabbing out a dry response.

Me: ......You're a good person. I trust you.

Wait... why am I handing out "good person" cards now? My tongue always fails me when I need it most.

I wasn't sure what part of that caught Yi Yu's sense of humor again, but he laughed, his expression softening. By the end, however, a trace of something complex flickered in his eyes, making them difficult to read.

Yi Yu: A good person?

Yi Yu: You flatter me.

He slowed his pace.

Yi Yu: Watch your step.

He smoothly changed the subject, returning to his usual composed demeanor in a heartbeat.

Yi Yu: The cobblestones are covered in moss and rainwater. You may hold onto my sleeve if you wish.

That patch of plain white drifted before my eyes like light gauze or a stray cloud. I reached out and caught it gently, letting the fabric settle in my palm.

Me: Thank you, sir.

Me: I still don't know your name.

Yi Yu: Yi Yu.

Me: My name is Y/N.

Yi Yu: Y/N...

He repeated my name softly, his voice carrying the natural, lingering affection of the southern wetlands.

The fine rain drummed against the surface of the umbrella, making the bamboo leaf patterns tremble. That muffled pitter-patter accompanied us for the rest of the way.

After rounding a corner, Yi Yu said, "We're here."

Stopping in front of the building, I stood there in a daze for a moment.

This clinic was almost identical to the building in the photo I had taken.

I had entered this place right after capturing that image, so does that mean this clinic is likely the key to my return?

Amidst my surprise, I began to observe the surroundings again and immediately noticed the plaque hanging right above the entrance.

—Baohe Tang.

Perhaps pharmacies and clinics are often given names like this, which is why it feels so familiar.

I pushed my thoughts aside for the moment and followed Yi Yu inside the clinic.

Yi Yu gestured for me to make myself at home while he went upstairs to change his clothes.

The clinic was empty, but every area was tidy and clearly organized, with a kettle of water boiling over a brazier.

Before long, I felt a sudden weight on my shoulders as a large garment, smelling of bamboo and faint medicinal herbs, was wrapped around me.

It appeared to be Yi Yu's outer robe.

Yi Yu's voice sounded from behind me.

Yi Yu: I don't have any women's clothing here, so you'll have to make do with mine.

Me: It's fine.

Yi Yu moved to sit beside me and poured me a cup of hot tea.

Yi Yu: This will help ward off the cold.

Me: Thank you.

No matter what, this place is far from simple. I have to find a way to stay here.

Me: Actually... if I hadn't followed you here, I wouldn't have known where else to go.

I let out a soft sigh, taking the opportunity to build up my cover story, making my tone sound as lost and helpless as possible.

Yi Yu: Oh... is that so?

He took a shallow sip of his tea, his tone remaining casual.

Wait. Why is he leaving it at that?

Ask me more! I already have the script ready in my head.

I feigned drinking my tea to gauge his reaction, only to find myself meeting his gaze—and he was smiling.

He set down his teacup, finally showing the concerned expression I had anticipated.

Yi Yu: What happened?

Even though something felt a little off, it didn't matter as long as I got the result I wanted.

Me: I’m from out of town. A relative of mine said he was doing big business here in Lin'an, so my family sent me to work for him.

Me: But after I arrived, he kept making excuses. I never saw any storefront or staff, and he kept me locked away in a remote courtyard.

Me: Then... I actually overheard him planning to sell me to a human trafficker, so I ran away immediately.

Me: Now, I’m all alone... with no money and nowhere to go.

I clenched my hands tightly as if struggling to suppress my anxiety, then summoned the courage to speak.

Me: I know this might be forward of me, but I have to ask.

Me: Could I stay here and work for you?

Me: I don’t need a salary—just simple food and a place to sleep would be enough...

By the time I finished, I started to wonder if I was being a bit too demanding.

Just as my confidence began to waver—and I was debating whether to make my story even more tragic or reveal through the Silhouette that I actually had some knowledge of pharmacology—Yi Yu agreed without much hesitation.

Yi Yu: That is fine.

That easily? He’s not going to press for more details?

He poured more tea for me, his voice sounding somewhat ethereal over the trickling of the water.

Yi Yu: As a healer, one must cast aside the pursuit of fame and fortune, and focus solely on the resolve to aid and rescue others.

Yi Yu: You may stay here and put your mind at ease, though life may be a bit simple and austere.

Yi Yu: Should you wish to leave in the future, you are free to do so at any time.

Me: Not at all! I’ve already troubled you so much, how could I possibly be picky?

Me: Thank you so much. I promise I’ll work hard.

But Yi Yu's next question truly stumped me.

To put it simply, I didn't have an ancient identity card—a travel permit.

Just as I told him I didn't have one and was about to explain that it had been lost, a man's voice called out from the entrance.

???: Dr. Yi, I went out to gather more herbs today. Please, have a look.

I looked toward the voice and saw a handsome young man walking in. Upon seeing me, he gave a polite nod.

Yi Yu: Leave them in the backyard as usual.

???: Of course.

As the man passed us, something seemed to occur to Yi Yu. He tilted his head slightly to watch the man's retreating figure, then turned back to me.

Yi Yu: Do not worry about your documentation. I will take care of it.

Yi Yu: By the way, the man who just entered is the apprentice who helps out in the clinic. You will be working alongside him from now on.

Yi Yu: His name is Xu Xian.

Xu Xian?!

Me: Which characters are used for his name?

Yi Yu: "Xu" as in a promise, and "Xian" as in an immortal.

Hearing those words, my thoughts began to drift.

West Lake, a medical clinic, and a colleague named Xu Xian with the exact same profession... could there really be this many coincidences involving the Legend of the White Snake?

But this seemed to differ from the story I remembered.

And so, I asked a probing question.

Me: Is Xu Xian married?

Yi Yu paused mid-sip. He rotated the cup in his hand, his gaze shifting toward me at an unhurried pace.

I wasn't sure if it was just my imagination, but his expression seemed to grow a bit colder.

Yi Yu: He is.

Me: And his wife?

Yi Yu: I have never met her. He and I are not on such intimate terms.

Yi Yu: But according to him, they are a very devoted couple.

He poured the remaining tea from his cup into the brazier; with a sharp sizzle, the charcoal fire was extinguished.

The sparks danced in his eyes before fading into the color of cinders, yet the smile on his lips never wavered.

Yi Yu: Are you curious about him?

Ah... not exactly. I just thought that since we'll be working together from now on, I should get a sense of the situation.

Me: It'll help me settle in faster.

Yi Yu: Xu Xian has a reserved personality. If you are too enthusiastic, it may actually have the opposite effect.

Yi Yu: It would be best to maintain a professional distance and treat him as a casual acquaintance.

I nodded.

Me: Okay. I’ll do as you say.

After that, Yi Yu helped me tidy up a room and provided me with some clothes and personal items.

Yi Yu handled the cooking for dinner. It was just the two of us; Xu Xian had his own residence and didn't share meals or living quarters with us.

I tucked the camera away in the very back of a dresser drawer. After washing up and crawling into bed, the sense of security from having a place to settle down lulled me into a deep sleep.

—

The next morning, while I was enjoying the steaming breakfast Yi Yu had bought, I saw Xu Xian walk over to the table with a smile on his face.

Xu Xian: Meimei, when do you and Dr. Yi plan to be wed?

I was right in the middle of a sip of porridge; the question shocked me so much I forgot to blow on it, sending a mouthful of scalding heat straight into my mouth and burning my tongue.

Seeing this, Yi Yu poured a cup of cool water. Before I could even reach for it, he had already brought it to my lips.

I ended up swallowing it down in a complete daze.

But my confusion only grew.

...What on earth have I stumbled into? Is this even the same world I was in yesterday?

Why is it that I understand every single word Xu Xian said, yet I can't make sense of them when they're put together?

Me: ....I must still be dreaming.

Yi Yu brushed a stray lock of hair behind my shoulder. He seemed to be stifling a laugh at my reaction, though his tone carried a note of genuine surprise as well.

Yi Yu: I heard it too.

Seeing us like this only seemed to make Xu Xian look more relieved.

Xu Xian: Meimei, seeing the two of you so devoted to one another truly warms my heart.

Xu Xian: We spoke before of holding the wedding within the next fortnight. Have you decided on a specific date yet?

Me: Huh?

How did I not only become Xu Xian’s sister, but also end up on the verge of marrying Yi Yu?

Did someone pull the progress bar at double speed?

Yi Yu stood up at that moment.

Yi Yu: Brother Xu, a word in private?

The two of them headed to the backyard. A short while later, they returned, and Xu Xian set about preparing the clinic for the day’s business.

Yi Yu sat down beside me and let out a faint sigh.

Yi Yu: I am sorry. This is my fault.

Yi Yu: I considered how difficult it is for a person without an identity—a hidden citizen—to remain unnoticed. An unfamiliar face with no clear origin is easily reported by neighbors.

Yi Yu: Should the authorities discover you... since I promised you a safe place to stay, I could not let you face those consequences.

Yi Yu: Therefore, I used a form of medicinal hypnosis on Xu Xian last night. I intended for him to believe you were his sister who had come to seek his help, making it easier to arrange a temporary residency permit for you.

Yi Yu: I am not sure where the error occurred, but after a single night, this new idea has taken root in his mind quite deeply.

Yi Yu: I already felt a great deal of guilt toward Xu Xian for doing this. I never imagined it would involve you in this way...

He lowered his eyes, his voice tinged with self-deprecation.

Yi Yu: The methods recorded in the ancient texts are exquisite; it seems my skills were lacking, and I acted too impulsively.

So the root of the problem was me after all—he only did this to help me.

Me: Don’t blame yourself. You didn't intend for this to happen, and there were factors beyond your control. You couldn't have known, right?

I reached out and tugged at his sleeve.

Me: It's okay. At least the residency issue will be smoother now, won't it? The situation isn't that bad.

Yi Yu: But this concerns your marriage...

Yi Yu: Are you already betrothed? Do you have someone else in your heart?

Yi Yu: If so, I imagine he would find this quite distressing.

His tone was sincere, as if he were considering my well-being at every turn.

I shook my head.

Me: Neither.

Just as I was about to ask if there was a way to break this ancient hypnosis or how long it would last, Yi Yu followed up with another question.

Yi Yu: In that case... why don't we simply play along?

Yi Yu: A sham marriage to solidify your identity. What do you think?

The question I hadn't asked died in my throat.

I was surprised, but I also felt something I couldn't quite put into words.

Me: Are you always... this kind?

Me: If it were anyone else today, would you have asked the same thing?

Yi Yu shook his head.

Yi Yu: No.

Yi Yu: There is no rush. Take the day to think it over.

With that, he rose and headed to the backyard, presumably to tend to the herbs.

I finished the rest of my breakfast and, after tidying up, prepared to go help out. But when I turned around, I found Xu Xian standing directly behind me, staring blankly.

Xu Xian: Meimei, there is something I wish to say to you.

Me: Uh... all right.

Xu Xian: Dr. Yi may be deeply devoted to you, but you cannot keep him... dangling like this forever.

Xu Xian: Postponing the wedding date time and time again is simply no way to handle things.

Xu Xian: Since the two of you are clearly of one heart, seeing you start your family soon would set my mind at ease.

Me: ......

Seriously, brother, aren't you filling in way too many blanks on your own?

Me: Fine... I understand.

Xu Xian nodded and turned to leave.

In truth, I really didn't have much to worry about regarding this matter, especially since the outcome worked in my favor anyway.

And so, I went straight to find Yi Yu.

Me: About the sham marriage—I’ve given it some serious thought, and I’m truly willing to go through with it.

Me: If anything, you’re the one helping me so much. I don’t even know how I’ll ever repay you.

The sound of herbs being ground stopped. He looked at me, his gaze softening.

Yi Yu: Then, how about you repay me by living well and working hard?

Yi Yu: However, if we were to treat this as a formal wedding, it would be quite rushed. There is no time to prepare the proper rites or traditional gifts.

Yi Yu: Shall we treat this ceremony as an engagement for now?

Yi Yu: We can settle the rest of the formalities later.

Huh? Why is he thinking so far ahead?

Me: Okay.

Me: No need to invite too many people. We can just keep things simple.

After that, I once again felt as if the plot had hit the fast-forward button somewhere beyond my sight.

Just two days later, I found myself sitting on the bed in a room adorned for a wedding night.

I couldn't help but marvel at Yi Yu's efficiency.

He had only stopped by to ask me about a few small preferences and details; he handled everything else so I wouldn't have to worry.

It left me feeling a bit lightheaded after going through all the ceremonies.

So this is it... I'm married?

Yi Yu was downstairs sharing drinks with Xu Xian and a few neighbors; since neither of us had any living parents or close kin, the guest list was small.

I rose and sat before the vanity, beginning to remove the somewhat cumbersome hair ornaments.

Just then, the door creaked open, and Yi Yu's figure appeared in the room; as he approached my side, his footing seemed to falter for a moment.

I hurriedly reached out to catch him, and his tall frame fell right into my arms.

Yi Yu: My apologies. They forced quite a bit of wine on me.

His breath brushed against the side of my neck, carrying a faint warmth that rose and fell in shallow, uneven rhythm.

I helped him sit down on the edge of the bed, then poured a cup of tea and handed it to him.

Me: You should have just told them you couldn't drink that much. Don't be so honest next time.

Yi Yu rubbed the space between his brows, though a smile still lingered on his lips.

Yi Yu: On such a joyous day, since their words were meant as blessings, I naturally had to accept them all.

Yi Yu: It is no matter. It has simply been a long while since I last drank, and I was caught a bit off guard.

Me: Are you feeling dizzy?

Yi Yu: Mmh, a little.

Me: Come closer. I'll help you take off your headpiece.

Yi Yu seemed caught in a state between sobriety and intoxication, but he obediently lowered his head.

It wasn't until this very moment that the reality of being married finally began to sink in.

I helped him remove the crown. Without it holding everything in place, his hair cascaded down completely.

I couldn't help myself and gently brushed a lock of hair away from his ear.

In the next instant, he seized my wrist and looked up, staring straight at me.

His skin was originally a pale, bloodless white, like a lifeless porcelain vase, but now it was flushed with a hint of drunken crimson, his eyes reflecting the flickering firelight of the room.

He looked like a gorgeous specter or some captivating spirit from the deep woods.

He pulled my wrist up to the tip of his nose, then parted his lips slightly as if I were a piece of food he intended to devour.

I hurriedly called out his name.

Me: Yi Yu! You’re drunk.

He stopped just in time, lowering his gaze as if lost in thought, before seemingly regaining his senses and letting go of my hand.

As he stood up, he let the bed curtains fall and began walking toward the window.

Yi Yu: You should get some rest. I will sleep on the daybed tonight.

The thin curtains immediately cut off my line of sight; amidst the sea of red, the candlelight cast a hazy silhouette.

Me: Yi Yu, sleep here.

I called out to stop him.

Me: The daybed is too hard and very cold.

He paused but didn't move, and when his voice reached me, it seemed to have taken on the heavy stillness of the night.

Yi Yu: Then... thank you for your consideration.

He turned back, extinguishing the rest of the candles one by one until only the dragon and phoenix pair remained.

Then, a hand gently parted the bed curtains, as if lifting a red bridal veil.

Afterward, we lay down fully clothed on opposite sides of the bed, keeping a modest distance between us.

Once the initial nerves passed, the quiet surroundings and the cozy blankets pulled me into a deep sleep.

It was a dreamless night.

Darkness—a darkness so complete that not a single speck of light could be seen.

I had no idea where I was, so I could only move my feet forward in a futile attempt to explore.

Then, I caught the fresh scent of medicinal herbs, tinged with a slight bitterness.

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Part 2

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Youran: So, are you going to share your investigation with me?

Gavin: That’s STF classified.

I didn't expect him to crack a smile just a moment later. He leaned back against the wire fence, returning to his usual cool self.

Youran: It is classified, but I don't intend to keep anything from you either.

Youran: Just now, I used my Evol to pull some clues from the security guard's memory, including your conversation with him.

Gavin: I didn't say much.

Gavin: The only reason I told him to keep his mouth shut was to prevent his comments from sparking baseless rumors.

Youran: True, but I looked at his memory from the night of the incident, and I found something very peculiar—

Gavin: Playing hard to get?

Youran: That depends on Officer Gavin’s sincerity.

Gavin: I don’t strike deals.

Gavin: If you want to share, share. If you don't, I’ll eventually find it on my own anyway.

Gavin arched an eyebrow, crossing his arms over his chest with an air of cool, effortless confidence.

Youran: .....Isn't that a bit cold?

Gavin: Your words—be yourself.

Gavin: Think about it. I don't have much patience.

Youran: ......

How had I never noticed how stubborn he could be?

Seeing the slight curve of his lips, I couldn't help but feel my heart soften.

Gavin, do you think this is fate's way of giving us another chance to get to know each other from a different perspective?

I blinked, realizing I had no choice but to surrender to him.

Youran: I checked that man's memory, and there really were no signs of it being altered.

Youran: But I noticed that when he first arrived at the scene, there was a visible trace of distortion on the wall in the corner of his vision.

Gavin: Distorted walls?

Gavin: He didn't mention that before.

Youran: He probably didn't even notice it himself. It was tucked away in a corner of his memory.

Youran: Memories can record far more than our conscious minds ever do.

A flash of something deep crossed Gavin's eyes for a moment before being quickly masked.

Gavin: What did the distortion look like?

Youran: It was… like looking through the heat rising above a flame. Everything was shimmering and blurred.

Youran: But I didn't see any fire nearby.

Gavin: Show me where.

He immediately stood up, clearly recognizing the gravity of the situation.

Youran: Okay, follow me.

I started to run toward the rooftop door. But a sudden gust of wind swept in, scooping me into a firm, cool, yet gentle embrace.

His arm hooked around me naturally, only to freeze in place a second later. We both stood there, blinking at each other in awkward silence.

Youran: .....?

Gavin: ......

Gavin: Taking the stairs is too slow.

His ears turned bright red in an instant, but his tone remained as gruff as ever.

Gavin: For the record, if you’re the one who caught me off guard, then I’m not the one breaking my own rules.

Youran: Huh……?

Before I even had a chance to react, Gavin pulled me close and leaped high into the air, riding the wind. He vaulted over the railing and we began to plummet toward the ground.

Those brilliant eyes were filled with my own reflection in his amber gaze. In that split second, I finally understood what he was hinting at.

As we fell rapidly, I felt no fear at all. I simply wrapped my arms around him tightly and activated my Evol.

Medical Examiner: These bodies show clear signs of high-altitude falls. There are no other marks of physical violence or assault.

Medical Examiner: The estimated time of death is ten o'clock last night.

Gavin: ……Ten o'clock?

Medical Examiner: Judging by the lividity and rigor mortis, the time of death shouldn't exceed seven hours ago.

Eli: According to our investigation of Zhao Yang's missing watch, the last signal was recorded at 8:15 PM on the 17th, at the bus stop near the school entrance.

Eli: That watch generates a tracking signal every two hours. We’ve investigated all the passengers on the bus at that time, but we haven't found any trace of the watch.

Eli: There are too many contradictions here, but someone must have obtained Zhao Yang's watch one way or another.

Eli: However, there were no signs of struggle on Zhao Yang’s body, which suggests it might have been stolen, or perhaps Zhao Yang gave it to them willingly.

Gavin: If it was stolen, the timing is far too convenient.

Gavin: Besides, three days have passed without another signal appearing. It’s as if the person knows the watch is being tracked.

Eli: Well, the suicides made the news, after all.

Gavin: But if it really was a suicide, there would be even less reason for them to worry about the watch being investigated.

Gavin: What are they so afraid of?

Eli: Does that mean... there was something recorded on that watch that couldn't be discovered? And then someone stole it?

Eli: No, that doesn't make sense. If Zhao Yang really had found something out, they only needed to make his death look like a suicide. Why go through the trouble of staging a mass suicide?

Eli: It just makes things more complicated. If the goal was to steal something quietly, a mass suicide is way too high-profile. It’s a complete contradiction.

Eli: Plus, according to our interviews, those kids really weren't having a great time. They all showed some degree of suicidal ideation.

Gavin: .......

Gavin: There shouldn't be any footage in the school's surveillance of those kids heading to the rooftop, right?

Eli: Right, there are no cameras up there. We only have hallway footage showing the kids leaving their respective classrooms after school.

Gavin: ......

Gavin: Are we certain there were only four children involved in this mass suicide?

Gavin: Did you detect any Evol wavelengths on the bodies?

Xiao Wei: Yes, Captain. However, the levels are extremely faint, so we should be able to rule out the possibility of an Evolver being directly involved in the crime.

Xiao Wei: It’s more likely to be residual traces left behind by a specialized device powered by Evol.

Xiao Wei: Additionally, we didn't find any Evol fingerprints.

Xiao Wei: But upon comparison, we discovered something very strange...

..

A flood of fragmented images poured into my mind. The sheer volume of information was so overwhelming that I could only passively absorb it all into my consciousness.

In the moment of our fall, a violent gust of wind surged upward, setting us down safely on level ground.

I was overcome by a wave of dizziness and leaned against him instinctively.

Gavin didn't move for a while, either. He just stood there, and it was a long time before he finally spoke.

Gavin: If you keep holding on like this, I'm really going to have to count it as a sneak attack.

Youran: As if I’d ever be capable of catching Officer Gavin off guard.

I let go somewhat reluctantly and took a half-step back.

Gavin: If those kids really fell from here, then this was the entire duration.

Youran: One or two seconds... there’s no way that would account for a jump from 10:00 back to 9:03.

Something had to have altered both the time and the nature of those children's deaths.

Youran: What exactly are Evol fingerprints?

Gavin: That's STF classified. Can't...

Gavin: What are you doing?

Seeing me cling to him like a koala again, he knit his brows, his ears turning red once more.

Youran: It's fine. I can just "sneak attack" you one more time.

Gavin: You weren't like this before.

Youran: Maybe that's because you used to just go along with whatever I wanted.

I smiled, feeling an inexplicable surge of courage lifted by the weight of our past.

Youran: So, you don't know just how stubborn I can be yet.

Gavin: I know.

Gavin: If you weren't, you wouldn't have taken all those responsibilities onto your shoulders.

He lowered his eyes, looking straight into the depths of mine. Then, with a quick sweep of his hand, he caught me by the back of my neck and pulled me back down.

Gavin: Evol fingerprints—they're a new investigative breakthrough from the STF Research Department specifically for Evol-related crimes.

Gavin: As the world reset and moved forward again, the public disclosure of Evol gave us access to more research methods and samples.

Gavin: For specific Evol crimes, we've been hoping to obtain more physical, forensic-level evidence, but the process has been harder than expected.

Gavin: Eventually, we were able to define and record Evol in the form of energy wavelengths.

Gavin: We discovered that the energy bands produced by different Evolvers after using their abilities are unique—

Youran: Just like a human fingerprint?

Gavin: That's why we call them Evol fingerprints.

Youran: .....Have they been researching this for a long time?

Gavin: If you count the repeated time since the world moved forward, it's been at least ten years.

Gavin: It's just that the equipment for this specific test is still in its final trial phase. It can't be used as grounds for a conviction yet.

Youran: I've never heard you mention this before....

Gavin: Before it was successful, it was indeed a top-tier STF secret.

The corners of his mouth curled up slightly, looking particularly boyish as if he were resonating with his past self.

Gavin: Where was that distorted wall you mentioned?

Youran: Over here.

I led him to the wall diagonally across from where the bodies had fallen, pointing toward the direction I had seen in the memory.

Youran: Right here.

Following my lead, Gavin checked the area thoroughly, but he didn't seem to find anything.

Naturally, there were no traces of scorch marks from a fire, either.

Youran: I’m sure I didn't see it wrong…

Gavin: I believe you.

His voice was calm, yet exceptionally firm.

Gavin: If there really is some kind of Evol-driven device involved, as the Research Department suspects, it would explain everything.

Gavin: But I need to confirm it. I have to go back to the STF to grab something.

The setting autumn sun hung beside him, tracing a brilliant edge of light along his silhouette.

Youran: Gavin, if the STF's equipment can be officially put into use, does that mean all Evol activity—including specialized devices—can be detected?

Youran: Would it be able to stop a lot of things from happening?

He turned around, his gaze burning as he looked at me.

Gavin: If all goes well, we’ll be able to quickly locate things like those machines used to collect Evol energy in the Hunter Game.

Gavin: Evolver assassinations, the Bloodline Disorder, and even incidents caused by Odyssey... we’ll have a much more precise path to resolving them.

Gavin: That’s the entire purpose behind all the blood, sweat, and tears the Research Department has poured into this.

During the time Gavin was away, I didn’t want to waste a single second. I continued to circle the school grounds, interviewing more and more students.

Utilizing my memory Evol, I traveled through the cold, distant perspectives of countless children.

I pushed my powers to the limit. Though it was a strain, I finally discovered a common thread hidden within the memories they themselves had overlooked—

Wang Xiangyu: I’m going over to the gym for a walk... I won’t be getting in your way anymore.

Zhao Yang: I’ll help you return that basketball to the gym. Thanks for lending me your notes the other day.

Tian Jing: The Youth League Committee is inspecting the gym tomorrow. There’s an event in a few days, so I’m going to help out. I don’t want to help out ever again after this. I hope this is the last time.

Zou Chunying: You guys go on ahead. I left my hairpin in the gym during PE class, so I need to go look for it... Goodbye.

Wan You: We have another shooting test for finals. I don’t want to fail, so I'm going to the gym to practice... Otherwise, my mom is just going to scold me again. I hope she won't yell at me anymore.

One after another, their youthful faces—some pale, others strained—flashed before me.

I wanted to reach out and grab their hands, but I could only watch helplessly as those fragments dissolved into dull, gray dust.

Including the boy who hadn't shown up for school, every single one of them had mentioned the gym.

Did they gather at the gym? But if they were planning to head to the rooftop to end their lives, why go to the gym first?

It was already nearly time for school to let out. Students were streaming out of the gates in groups, while I followed the path from my memories toward the school gym.

But as the facility came into view, I stopped in my tracks, bewildered.

It looked nothing like the place in my memories. The building before me was sharp and angular, with massive floor-to-ceiling windows that seemed to draw a transparent line in the sand.

Youran: ……Wait. Is this actually our school's gym......?

This wasn't the first time I’d felt this kind of confusion, and it was starting to make me doubt my own recollection.

The gym was empty by now, with the high-hanging lights casting a brilliant sheen across the polished floor.

I did a full circuit of the building, pushing my powers as hard as I could, but as expected, I couldn't sense anything from thin air.

...Could there be a secret passage in here?

After a fruitless search of every nook and cranny, the pristine floorboards only reflected back my own frustrated expression.

Youran: Phew... I guess I shouldn't let my imagination get ahead of me.

Using my powers so many times today had left me feeling lightheaded. I shook my head, trying to clear the fog, and wondered if I should just call it a day.

But as I turned to leave, I spotted an unfamiliar face standing at the gym entrance.

??: Do you like this gym?

The man wore a loose, beige linen shirt with the sleeves casually rolled up twice, revealing the sharp lines of his wrists.

His slate-blue eyes held a friendly softness. He radiated a sense of calm and tranquility, like a piece of unrefined yet warm jade.

Youran: ......This is actually my first time here. I can't really say if I like it or not.

??: Is that so? I assumed you were a graduate of this school as well.

Youran: Oh? Are you an alum too?

The man’s lips curled into a gentle smile, seemingly in affirmation.

My mind was exhausted, but driven by curiosity, I couldn't help but strike up a conversation with him.

Youran: Has this gym always looked like this?

??: It has. It’s been this way for many years now.

??: I haven't seen it in a long time. I didn't expect it to be just like me—hardly changed at all.

Could the changes in the world really extend to the architecture itself?

I mused dully, feeling my head grow heavier and my eyelids start to sag.

Youran: Well, I won't bother you any longer. I...

??: Don't move.

Suddenly, a cold voice rang out from the doorway.

I turned my head sluggishly only to see Gavin standing at the main entrance, his icy gaze shifting from me to the man's back.

Gavin: Who are you?

??: Hello, Officer. I’m simply revisiting an old haunt and having a chat with the young lady here.

Gavin: Is that so?

Gavin: If it’s just a chat, then why are you using your Evol?

I saw the device in Gavin's hand flashing incessantly. Immediately after, a sharp gale whistled through the room, stirring the stagnant air of the gymnasium.

Following the flow of air and light, several thin threads—like a spider's web—became visible all around me, silently trapping me within them.

One was even pressed right against my throat.

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Chapter 1-17

If you'd like to support my translations and read them DAYS before they are published on this Tumblr, consider joining my Patreon!

A faint, glimmering light flickered not far away. I took a few steps toward it and found a flower bud waiting to bloom.

I reached out to touch it, but in an instant, a forked serpent's tongue flicked out from the center of that beautiful, harmless flower, licking the tip of my finger.

Terrified, I scrambled backward, but something suddenly coiled around my ankle.

It felt slow, damp, and cold.

I looked down in horror to find a vine thicker than my calf wrapping itself tightly around me, rubbing against my skin as it continued to wind its way upward.

I couldn't break free at all. The blows I landed on the vine in my struggle felt soft and powerless, only seeming to make it more excited.

And just like that, the darkness swallowed me once again...

I snapped my eyes open, and as my vision slowly came into focus, I saw the familiar canopy of the bed. Only then did that overwhelming sense of dread begin to recede like the ebbing tide.

Outside, the world was already bathed in broad daylight.

This was already the third time in recent days that I’d had a dream like that.

Even now that I was awake, the sensations from the dream seemed to linger, terrifyingly real.

I instinctively checked my hands and feet, but there wasn't a single mark on them.

I must be going crazy, taking a dream so seriously.

Maybe it's the lack of clues on how to get back home... the stress must be getting to me.

I sat up and went about my usual morning routine.

...

When I headed downstairs, I saw Yi Yu dishing out some porridge, and I gave him a greeting.

Me: Good morning.

Yi Yu glanced at me, his brow furrowing slightly with a worried tone.

Yi Yu: You don't look well. Are you feeling unwell somewhere?

He stepped forward, placing a hand against my forehead before lifting my wrist to check my pulse.

Me: I'm fine. I just had a nightmare and didn't sleep well.

Yi Yu: From what I can tell of your pulse, there isn't anything out of the ordinary.

As he spoke, he pulled a sachet from inside his robe.

Yi Yu: I noticed you seemed a bit exhausted these past two days. I happened to pass by a temple and picked this up for you. It should help soothe your nerves and aid your sleep—or at the very least, provide some peace of mind.

Me: Thank you.

I took the sachet and tied it to my waist.

Yi Yu: It will be even more effective if you place it under your pillow before bed.

I nodded.

The daytime remained much the same as usual, though I noticed the number of people coming to the clinic seemed to have increased slightly, and their symptoms were remarkably similar.

Logically speaking, this wasn't exactly peak season for the flu.

I casually mentioned it to Xu Xian, and he said it might be because of the heavy rains this year, which tend to make people feel under the weather.

It sounded reasonable enough, so I pushed my doubts aside for the moment.

...

That night, as I untied the sachet and prepared for bed, the memories of my recent strange dreams resurfaced. The more I thought about them, the more unsettled I felt.

I couldn't put my finger on what exactly was wrong, but my intuition told me things weren't as simple as they seemed.

I got up to open the wardrobe and then pulled open that inner drawer.

It was... completely empty.

My camera was gone.

It was still there when I checked it the day before yesterday at noon, so the most likely time for it to go missing was yesterday.

Was it a thief? If so, why didn't they take any valuables and specifically targeted this?

Or was the camera a time-limited item? Did it just automatically vanish once its time was up?

Nothing unusual had happened these past two days, except for...

Those dreams that felt like sleep paralysis.

I took a deep breath, closed the wardrobe door, and lay back down on the bed.

I decided to use my Silhouette. If anything strange happened tonight, I was going to see exactly what was going on.

I blew out the candle and used the power of my Silhouette to block everything out, ensuring that nothing intended to influence me could take effect.

I slowed my breathing, feigning a deep sleep.

Time ticked by second by second. There was no sound in the room, only the sporadic patter of rain against the window.

Just as I was about to lose the battle and actually drift off, I suddenly sensed something appearing at the head of my bed, drawing closer.

I was instantly wide awake.

Had I dozed off for a second? I clearly hadn't heard a single door or window open, and there wasn't even the sound of a footstep.

I readied my Silhouette; the moment he made a move, I would strike.

But still, no movement came. It was as if everything were merely a figment of my imagination.

My tense nerves couldn't help but relax slightly. In that very instant, a cold sensation touched the corner of my eye.

It traced the contours of my face, slowly moving downward.

My Silhouette was poised and ready.

The next moment, a familiar fragrance reached my nose.

Like cold rain on bamboo branches.

Yi Yu?

Having identified the intruder, I temporarily held back my Silhouette's attack.

What was Yi Yu doing here this late at night?

I didn't open my eyes, continuing to pretend I was fast asleep.

What was lingering on my face was likely his finger; perhaps because of the night air, it felt exceptionally chilly.

I felt the weight of the blanket increase slightly as Yi Yu sat down beside my hand.

He seemed to be using his finger as a brush, gently and rhythmically tracing patterns, only the canvas he was drawing on was me.

The "nib" traveled across my face, my neck, and my shoulder, finally tracing down my arm to rest on the back of my hand.

Then, he picked up my hand, gently kneading the flesh of my palm all the way to the knuckles of my fingers.

It was as if he were toying with a novel new plaything.

The contrasting temperatures of our hands—cold and heat intertwining—forced me to use every ounce of my strength to remain seemingly unconscious.

What exactly is Yi Yu doing? Is this some kind of traditional Chinese medicine sleep-aid massage? Is it really necessary to perform "treatment" in the dead of night?

While various thoughts raced through my mind, a sudden coldness clamped around my waist.

It was Yi Yu's hand.

I nearly bolted upright, but his movements weren't suggestive; it felt as if he were examining a patient, or perhaps considering where a surgeon should make the first cut.

The rustle of fabric was strikingly clear in the silent night, feeling like some creature crawling along my curves.

Until a familiar sense of restraint tightened around my calf. In an instant, it was as if I were back in that dream.

Reality and illusion overlapped, leaving me momentarily unable to tell which was real.

The current situation was incredibly awkward. I didn't know whether I should "wake up" and face him.

I first tried to see if I could break free.

I let out a couple of soft moans, pretending to be uncomfortable in my sleep as I tried to turn over.

Unlike in the dream, I could move this time, and I managed to rescue my leg from the restraint.

But one of Yi Yu's hands was still on my waist—so how could he have touched my ankle with his other hand while I was lying flat on my back?

Or rather... was it even his hand that had been holding my ankle just now?

In that moment of chilling realization, a soft laugh drifted behind my neck, and Yi Yu's voice echoed like a ghost.

Yi Yu: Your heart is beating too fast.

Yi Yu: It has betrayed you.

The foreign sensation on my leg vanished instantly, leaving behind an emptiness as if it had never been there at all.

Could it really have been a hallucination born of my own nerves?

Me: You knew I was awake this whole time?

Me: You did that on purpose.

Yi Yu: Didn't you say you were tired during the day and wanted to rest early?

Yi Yu: Why are you still awake so late?

Yi Yu chose to dodge my point entirely, yet he still maintained that tone of concern.

Me: Don't think you can just talk your way out of this. Just now... why were you doing that?

Yi Yu: Doing what?

He looked as if he were genuinely seeking clarification.

Me: .....

I finally lost my patience and bolted upright.

He let out a soft "oh," as if he had only just realized what I was referring to.

Yi Yu: But aren't we husband and wife?

Wasn't that supposed to be a sham marriage?

I was about to say something more, but the moment I caught the full expression on his face, I suddenly lost my voice.

It was as if the night had stripped away his outermost layer of disguise, peeling it back to reveal something brand new underneath.

How should I describe it?

It felt as if he and I weren't even the same species, and he was curious about every single reaction of mine—constantly orchestrating and testing to capture my every thought and response.

It was the feeling of being prey under his gaze, being observed and recorded.

This sensation, hidden during the day, had finally fermented under the cover of darkness, allowing me to glimpse a fraction of the truth.

I instinctively backed away, only to bump into a firm arm, realizing that Yi Yu had cornered me from behind at some point.

Yi Yu: Do you hate that?

Me: ....I wouldn't go that far.

Yi Yu: Then... do you loathe me?

I shook my head honestly.

He smiled, his tone almost hypnotic.

Yi Yu: Then do you, perhaps, like me even a little?

When someone poses a difficult question, why not throw it right back?

I was equally curious about his answer.

Me: What about you?

Me: Do you like me even a little?

Yi Yu: There is no need to be nervous. The answer to that question is merely a point of reference for me.

Yi Yu: It is not that important.

Yi Yu: We have plenty of time ahead of us, do we not?

He pulled up my blanket, which had slipped down.

Yi Yu: Furthermore, as far as I am concerned, regarding that final question...

Yi Yu: My answer is in the affirmative.

I was a bit surprised; it was rare for him to be so blunt about his feelings for me.

Outside, the rain continued to pitter-patter, and the air was thick with the scent of damp earth.

In this moment, he seemed to have shed his refined, scholarly skin, appearing more like a creature following its instincts without bother for concealment.

In the brief silence, my rationality slowly returned.

Me: Yi Yu.

Yi Yu: Hm?

Me: Did you take my camera?

Yi Yu: What is a camera?

His reaction was perfectly normal.

Me: The thing I had hanging around my neck when I first met you.

Me: Black, square-shaped.

He seemed to search his memory for a moment before speaking.

Yi Yu: I didn't pay much attention to it. Why? Have you lost it?

Yi Yu: Lin'an is a bustling city. Perhaps we can buy another one?

I shook my head.

Me: It's fine. It wasn't anything valuable, so don't worry about it.

Yi Yu: Very well.

Yi Yu: However, seeing how spirited you are tonight, it seems this sachet is of little use. We may as well burn it.

At some point, he had retrieved the sachet from under the pillow. He stood up and held it over the candle flame.

The tiny spark erupted into a large flame, and the palm-sized sachet was reduced to ash in no time.

Yi Yu: Get some rest.

With that, he opened the door and left.

I watched as the candle flame slowly flickered out the moment he departed.

Darkness descended once more. I lay back down in bed, trying to calm my heart.

Just now, I had used my Silhouette to observe. As the sachet burned, it transformed within the fire into a silvery-blue scale, shimmering with a faint, eerie light.

But without the aid of the Silhouette, the naked eye saw only a heap of charred fabric.

Once the seeds of doubt are sown, they take root and sprout quickly.

Yi Yu's identity is definitely not as simple as it seems.

And as for the "affection" he spoke of... just how much of it was real, and how much was a lie?

—

The next day, after the clinic opened, I noticed even more patients than before. Within the modest space of the medical hall, things were starting to feel a bit crowded.

I was significantly busier than usual, and Yi Yu hardly had a moment to catch his breath.

Since the consultation and medicine fees at Yi Yu's clinic were some of the most affordable in the area, most of the people who came were common folk.

During these hours, in his role as "Dr. Yi," Yi Yu returned to his usual persona of the gentle, refined gentleman—as if the man from last night had been nothing more than my own hallucination.

Last night, just as I was drifting off after he left, the realization hit me: he had skillfully deflected my interrogation, brushing my questions aside with practiced ease.

In the end, I hadn't learned a single thing. The reasons behind his behavior remained a total mystery.

And now that the moment had passed, I really couldn't bring myself to press him further.

I spent a good while staring at his back with a fair bit of resentment before finally sighing and walking over to his side to start packing herbs according to the prescriptions.

He patiently answered the patients' questions and carefully explained their instructions, occasionally engaging in a bit of small talk.

Like with this elderly man right now.

They had already been chatting for a few minutes, and the old man ended the conversation with a warm invitation.

Elderly Man: Oh, Dr. Yi, don't forget to come by my house to pick up that old hen.

Yi Yu: Of course, Elder Zhang.

He finished replying and was about to call for the next patient, but the old man spoke up.

Elderly Man: I'm Elder Li, Dr. Yi!

Yi Yu's brush paused mid-stroke.

I couldn't help but let out a little laugh.

Hearing me, Yi Yu glanced my way. I pursed my lips, but I still couldn't stop the corners of my mouth from curling upward.

Caught you, didn't I? You don't actually remember these people at all.

He looked so attentive and approachable, but in reality, he was indifferent and detached from the world around him.

Yet, this rare bit of imperfection actually made him feel more grounded, more human.

Seeing me like this, Yi Yu's eyes crinkled slightly at the corners.

Yi Yu: Yes, it was a slip of the tongue. It seems I’ve grown a bit muddled from the busy morning.

Elderly Man: Aye, don't work yourself too hard. You must get proper rest.

The old man grumbled a few more words of advice, then took his medicine and began to hobble back toward the exit with a slight slouch.

Me: Elder Li, the path by the entrance is a bit slippery and difficult to navigate. Let me walk you part of the way.

The walk wasn't long. With an umbrella in one hand and Elder Li leaning on my other arm, I listened to him shower me and Yi Yu with praise, calling us both saints.

Elderly Man: Don't let the price fool you; this medicine is truly effective.

Elderly Man: It's not like I haven't tried other places, but nothing worked. Only Dr. Yi's medicine does the trick.

I looked down at the bundle of herbs in my hand and noticed a small separate packet. I hadn't packed it myself, so it looked like something Yi Yu had added personally.

Me: Is this packet included every time?

I pointed to the small medicinal bag.

Elderly Man: Let me see... Mmh, yes, it is. Dr. Yi’s secret formula, haha!

After giving the umbrella to Elder Li, who hadn't brought any rain gear, I pulled my sleeve over my head and jogged back.

It was already noon, and most people had gone home for lunch. By the time I returned, Xu Xian had just left with the last two patients.

Yi Yu was the only one left in the clinic. He stood by the door, just about to open his umbrella, but he stopped when he saw me run in.

Me: Where are you off to?

Yi Yu: To fetch you.

Yi Yu: Why did you run through the rain?

He closed the umbrella and naturally took my hand to lead me inside, picking up a clean cloth to help dry my hair.

Me: I gave the umbrella to Elder Li. He lives quite far away.

Me: What’s for lunch?

After working all morning, I was starving.

Yi Yu smiled, his fingers sliding through the hair behind my ear. His palm brushed against the shell of my ear, leaving a trace of a tingle behind.

Yi Yu: The clinic is closed this afternoon. We’ll go out for lunch.

Yi Yu: You’ve been in Lin'an for a while now, yet I don't believe I've taken you out to see the sights.

Me: Sounds great.

No work and a chance to go out—there was absolutely no reason to turn down an offer like that.

Yi Yu took me to the largest pleasure grounds in Lin'an, the wazi.

During my time here, I had learned that the commodity economy was highly developed, with these entertainment hubs scattered all throughout the major cities—the true centers of public life.

After finishing our meal, we wandered aimlessly through the grounds.

Inside, there was everything from clothing and food to barbers, painters, and live performances... eating, drinking, playing, and shopping—it had it all.

Standing in the middle of it all was a dazzling, wonderful experience.

We followed the crowd to the largest goulan in the area. It was a massive venue for variety shows and operas, capable of holding thousands of people at once.

At the entrance of the theater, bright and colorful posters called zhaozi were pasted everywhere—the ancient equivalent of modern-day advertisements or digital billboards.

Me: There are so many people. Is it always this crowded?

Yi Yu: There must be a special performance scheduled for today.

Yi Yu: For shows featuring famous actors, tickets become incredibly hard to come by. Some people will even pay a premium to buy a seat from someone else.

So, scalpers existed even back then?

Nearby, some people were discussing the event.

Passerby A: I heard they only released two special tickets this time? And they’re drawing for them right before the show?

Passerby B: That’s right. With several famous actors and it being the premiere, they decided to pull this stunt.

Passerby A: Tsk, they certainly know how to run a business.

Passerby B: No kidding. Ever since some wealthy boss took over, they’ve certainly become quite extravagant.

Passerby B: The winners even get a prize at the end. I heard it’s an artifact from the old Wuyue Kingdom.

Passerby B: The rumors make it sound legendary—claims that it can bridge the past and present or connect one to the gods. If you ask me, it’s all just a gimmick to stir up hype.

My mind instinctively latched onto those sensitive words. Bridge the past and present?

Could that be a key item for this stage?

Even if there was a bit of marketing exaggeration involved, I hadn't made any progress at Baohe Hall, so I had to look for other clues or ways to get back.

Yi Yu: Interested?

Me: Hm?

Yi Yu: You seemed lost in thought listening to them. Shall we go in and take a look?

Me: The tickets for something like this probably aren't cheap.

Yi Yu: It doesn't matter.

Yi Yu: I would like to go, so consider it accompanying me, alright?

He reached his hand out toward me.

Yi Yu: Hold onto my sleeve.

Yi Yu: It’s crowded inside. I don't want us to get separated.

However, after walking for a while and weaving through the dense throng of people, that grip on his sleeve somehow shifted until our hands were entwined.

We bought two tickets and each drew a slip of paper with a number on it.

The wooden box holding the slips was empty in no time, signaling that the tickets were sold out. With a single strike of a gong from the owner, the boisterous crowd finally settled down.

The owner said a few polite words of welcome before getting straight to the point. He held up a wooden box with an opening at the top, gave it a good shake in every direction, then reached inside and pulled out two crumpled slips of paper.

As he slowly unfurled the slips, many in the crowd instinctively craned their necks to see.

The owner called out at the top of his lungs.

Owner: The first winner is number one hundred and twenty-six!

That was me!

I excitedly squeezed Yi Yu's hand, then thrust my other arm high into the air to signal.

Me: Over here! Right here!

I turned my head toward Yi Yu beside me.

Me: I actually won! Is my luck really that good today?

And yet, I noticed that Yi Yu seemed a bit off. He had his head slightly lowered, eyes cast down as he rubbed his brow with an air of discomfort.

Me: What's wrong? Are you too tired?

Before I could even finish my sentence, the man beside me snapped his eyes open.

That look was sharp and chillingly cold, like a hibernating beast suddenly startled awake.

His grip on my hand loosened, and his pupils seemed to lose focus for a brief second.

In the next heartbeat, his familiar expression returned—so quickly that it felt as if that previous look had been nothing more than a trick of the light.

Beneath the shifting glow of the lanterns, he looked down at me.

Before I could decipher the emotions in his eyes, someone tapped me on the shoulder. I instinctively turned around to find the ticket seller standing there.

Ticket Seller: Miss, please follow me inside.

Me: Alright, let me just tell my husband.

I turned my head back, only to find Yi Yu watching me intently, his eyes curved into thin crescents.

Just as I was about to speak, the owner announced the second number—and it was actually the one Yi Yu had chosen.

Yi Yu: It seems today truly is a lucky day.

He handed his numbered slip to the ticket seller as he spoke.

The ticket seller couldn't hide his surprise.

Ticket Seller: Both tickets were drawn by you two? Now that is a rare stroke of luck for a married couple.

I gave a forced little laugh.

Only two numbers and we won both? There’s no way it’s that much of a coincidence; it’s highly likely Yi Yu had a hand in this.

Ticket Seller: Please, follow me this way.

We followed him into the theater pavilion.

The ticket seller led us to our seats, and after he left, the rest of the audience began to file in.

Me: They even provided snacks.

If we had a bucket of popcorn, this would really feel like watching a movie.

Yi Yu: The prices are higher in this section, and we have central seating.

Oh, I get it. SVIP treatment, right?

Yi Yu: Shh, it's starting.

The melodious sound of a flute seemed to drift in from the far horizon as the stage curtains slowly drew back. The light gradually pierced through the gloom like the breaking of dawn.

As the story unfolded, the meticulous set design, the actors' performances, and the perfectly matched music drew everyone into the tight, ever-shifting scenes.

I leaned closer to Yi Yu and whispered my thoughts.

Me: What kind of trope are the leads using? Childhood friends? Partners turned lovers?

Yi Yu: Is that not a good thing?

Me: No, it just feels a bit strange. It's like only the male lead's background is glossed over, and there’s absolutely no depiction of his inner thoughts.

Me: Even though all the other plot points are written so thoroughly.

Yi Yu: That suggests it was intentional.

Yi Yu placed some peeled fruit onto my plate.

Me: Does Dr. Yi have any insights?

Yi Yu gave a small smile.

Yi Yu: Dr. Yi's knowledge is shallow and limited; he only knows a few medical basics.

He mimicked my tone, whispering back to me.

Yi Yu: But if you truly wish to know, then I shall tell—

I abruptly reached out and covered his mouth.

Me: No spoilers allowed.

The soft, warm sensation beneath my palm made me realize what I was doing, and I quickly pulled my hand back.

Yi Yu: Did you just eat an orange?

Me: How did you know?

He didn't say a word, simply taking a segment of an orange for himself.

Thinking back to the moment I covered his mouth, I instinctively lifted my hand and caught the scent; my fingertips were filled with the sweet and sour fragrance of citrus.

I suddenly felt a slight tingling sensation in my fingertips. I curled my fingers inward and sat back quietly to continue watching the play.

It was exactly as Yi Yu had said—information regarding the male lead had been intentionally withheld.

Later on, his identity underwent a massive reversal.

He was the mastermind—the big boss behind the faction opposing the female lead.

In the final scene, the two leads stood facing each other as she raised her sword.

The male lead asked, are you going to kill me?

The music shifted from a soaring high to a desolate, tragic tone, and the closing curtains slowly began to draw shut right at that moment.

I was stunned.

Me: Huh? That’s it? It’s over?

Yi Yu: There is likely a second part.

Me: ....They certainly know how to make money.

Just like when we arrived, Yi Yu held my hand as he led me out through the dimly lit corridor.

The owner handed us a wooden box, saying with a cheerful smile that it was the prize for the special tickets.

Inside the box was a piece of green jade.

After using my Silhouette to confirm that it was indeed just an ordinary piece of jade, I couldn't help but feel a bit disappointed.

I looked up to find Yi Yu gazing at me.

Lantern shadows flickered within his eyes.

Yi Yu: A piece of jade is not easy to carry. How about we have it made into a hairpin?

Yi Yu: What style would you like?

I looked at the bamboo pattern on his robes and spoke.

Me: Let's go with bamboo. It matches the green color.

Yi Yu: Very well.

Yi Yu held my hand, and we walked toward the exit together.

The sounds of the zither and soft singing continued to drift over from behind us in fits and starts.

The meaning of the wazi: gathered like tiles when arriving, scattered like tiles when leaving; easily brought together, and just as easily dispersed.

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Part 3

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I already have someone in mind for the Providence Guide to invite.

I made my way to the Sea Emperor’s Palace with ease, having grown quite familiar with the route, but Xia Xiaoyin was nowhere to be found.

I took a casual look around the sleeping quarters, admiring the various treasures collected within the Mirage Palace.

I knew I wouldn't have to wait long; the ocean itself would carry the news of my arrival to Xia Xiaoyin.

Sure enough, it wasn't long before I heard that familiar voice behind me.

Xia Xiaoyin: Y/N.

I turned around and met his smoky purple eyes.

Me: I told you I’d be back soon.

Me: See? I didn't lie to you.

Xia Xiaoyin gave a soft huff and moved a bit closer.

Xia Xiaoyin: At least you kept your word.

Despite his words, a faint smile flickered within his eyes as he looked at me.

Xia Xiaoyin took my hand and led me to sit down.

I told Xia Xiaoyin about my registration for the Flying Sword Tournament.

Me: I want to invite you to be my Providence Guide.

Xia Xiaoyin fell silent for a moment, contemplating.

The shimmering reflection of the surging waves danced within his smoky purple eyes.

A lock of his long white hair brushed against me, and his silvery-white tail fin fluttered in the water, loosely coiling around me.

I remembered the first time I met him, when he told me that there are sirens in the sea.

Even though I had no memories back then, I couldn't help but wonder... are all sirens this beautiful?

It felt as though I had been captured by him, or perhaps enchanted; I couldn't resist leaning in a little closer to him.

Seeing me draw closer, Xia Xiaoyin turned his face away, though he didn't retreat.

Xia Xiaoyin: Since you’ve invited me, then I shall be your Providence Guide.

With a final burst of speed, I became the first person to cross the finish line for this stage of the race.

I descended slowly, landing softly on the surface of the sea, the adrenaline from that lightning-fast flight still surging through my body.

The waves billowed beneath our feet, and the sound of his guidance seemed to still be echoing in my ears.

I looked toward Xia Xiaoyin.

Me: I’d expect nothing less from you.

Xia Xiaoyin: Of course.

He gazed at me, his smoky purple eyes so beautiful they were almost otherworldly.

Xia Xiaoyin: Are you leaving again?

Xia Xiaoyin: Discarding me now that I've served my purpose?

That certainly wasn't the case.

There was still some time left after the tournament concluded.

Me: I’m not.

Me: I want to head back to the Mirage Palace and keep admiring those treasures.

Xia Xiaoyin: Treasures.

Xia Xiaoyin: What's so interesting about those?

Xia Xiaoyin: If you like them, take whatever you want.

Xia Xiaoyin watched me, and suddenly his tail coiled around me, pulling me into his embrace as his sleeves enveloped us.

...

In the next moment, he had carried me back to the Mirage Palace.

His long, dreamlike tail fin drifted with the current, encircling me.

Xia Xiaoyin: Next time there is something like this...

Xia Xiaoyin: No, come find me even if there is nothing at all.

Me: Of course.

Xia Xiaoyin suddenly drew close, his white hair swaying slightly.

He leaned in against my ear.

Xia Xiaoyin: Stay with me a while longer.

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BtW Masterlist

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In a room within the palace, Kate lay sleeping upon a soft bed, her face devoid of all color.

The sound of her faint breathing barely reached the ear.

Right beside the bed, Darius sat in a chair, having gone days without sleep just to watch the rise and fall of her chest.

Darius: ......

He did not move, nor did he eat; he simply remained there to confirm that she was still alive.

Even as the dark circles under his eyes deepened, his hair grew disheveled, and his own complexion turned sickly...... he did not budge.

Nica: Dari, I’ve finished cleaning things up.

Darius: Thank you.

Darius replied without even glancing at Nica as he entered the room, causing Nica to let out a troubled sigh.

Nica: .......I’ve killed everyone who received the assassination orders, but what about Luca? He’s in custody. You want him dead?

Darius: No, don't kill him.

Darius: I just want you to tell him that I will never forgive him as long as he lives.

Nica: .......Okay, I’ll let him know.

Nica crossed his arms, turning his gaze toward Kate, who showed no sign of waking.

Nica: The Crown are absolutely furious. What are you going to do?

Darius: Nothing. No matter how angry they get, she belongs to me.

Nica: Even though she only survived because you rushed into Crown Castle and begged Roger to treat her?

Nica: You could at least say thanks. Otherwise, by now—

Darius: Nica.

Sensing the aura telling him to say no more, Nica raised both hands and turned on his heel.

Nica: I’ve got plenty to do, so I’m heading out. For now, I’m just glad she’s alive.

Nica: Even if we don’t know if she’ll ever wake up.

Nica left, and silence flowed through the room once more.

Darius: ......

Darius took her hand and pressed it against his forehead.

The hand felt much colder than it did in his memories...... and he thought that she might simply die like this.

Darius: Wake up soon.

Darius did not notice the way Kate’s eyelashes fluttered the moment he whispered.

...

(My right hand is so warm......)

I slowly opened my eyes.

Through my blurred vision, I saw Darius, his eyes closed as if in prayer while he clutched my hand.

(Darius......)

I tried to call his name, but no sound came out...... instead, his voice reached my ears.

Darius: You really are a fool.

Darius: It was the same when I tried to kidnap Crown. You would have died if I hadn't saved you.

Darius: And now, this. You broke your promise to me and walked right into their trap.

Darius: There is a limit to how foolish one can be. In the first place, how could someone like me, who can see the future, possibly be assassinated?

Darius: All I have to do is foresee it and kill the opponent before they can strike.

I watched him intently as he continued to speak, unaware that I was awake.

Darius: You, caught in a trap, pierced by a knife, and falling to the ground.

Darius: It was a truly horrific sight, exactly as my vision foretold.

Darius’s face twisted in agony, and he squeezed my hand with a force that was almost painful.

Darius: ......I have found you infuriating this entire time.

His lips were unmistakably trembling.

Darius: Just catching a glimpse of you irritates me. Every time I hear your voice, it becomes a nuisance. And when you touch me, I never want to let go.

Darius: I grow anxious when you’re out of my sight, and it becomes painful when I can't hear your voice.

Darius: When you don't squeeze my hand back, I feel as though my heart is going to burst.

Darius: Because of you...... I am overwhelmingly lonely.

He pressed his cheek against my hand as if confirming its warmth, his teeth gritting against his lip.

Darius: I have learned of an "I love you" that isn't empty.

Darius: I have learned how comfortable someone’s warmth can feel.

Darius: I have learned what it means to be in love.

I forgot to breathe as I watched him.

Darius: I want to be by your side at all times. I want you to live, I want you to smile, I want to be close to you... I want you to believe in me.

Darius: You told me once before that you wondered if I was in love with you, didn't you?

Darius: At the time, I thought you were talking nonsense, but...... I think you were right.

Darius: I’m sure that—from a long time ago—I’ve loved you.

A drop of heat fell onto my fingertip before quickly losing its temperature.

The moment I realized it was a tear falling from Darius's eye, that same heat spilled from my own eyes as well.

Darius: I won't forgive you if you die without ever waking up.

Darius: Don't you dare try to leave me...... without taking responsibility for changing me.

As his tears continued to fall, I finally squeezed his hand back.

In that instant, Darius gasped and looked up—and my eyes met his wet, honey-colored gaze.

Kate: Did I manage to prove it?

Darius’s expression twisted with emotion as I gave him a small smile.

Darius: You really are something else.

Kate: Well, I am a woman in love with a devil, aren't I?

Kate: There’s no way I could just be an ordinary person.

At my joke, Darius finally let a smile show on his face.

Darius: You're right. Completely right.

Our lips slowly met.

It was a kiss as gentle as a touch, as if he were handling something fragile.

But for us, in this moment, it was a kiss filled with more happiness than we could ask for—a kiss that allowed us to finally share our feelings with one another.

Kate: Hehe....

Darius: ......What are you laughing at?

Kate: I was just thinking about how happy I am...... and that even you cry, Darius.

He gave my cheek a light pinch, looking slightly disgruntled, but he soon kissed me again and offered a soft smile.

Darius: ......It’s the first time I can remember. I believe this is the first time I've shed tears since I was an infant.

Kate: Eh......

Darius: That is how much you have changed me.

Kate: Mm,

He pecked at my lips like a small bird before trailing kisses across my forehead, the corners of my eyes, my cheeks, the tip of my nose...... one after another.

Darius: I thought you were dead. The entire time you were asleep, I couldn't take my eyes off you, never knowing if you might slip away at any moment.

Darius: It is the first time I have ever experienced such terror at the thought of someone dying.

He slid his hand beneath my head, slowly helping me into a sitting position.

He embraced me with a gentleness that felt like being wrapped in the softest silk...... and then he pressed his ear against my chest.

Darius: ......You’re alive.

I tightly held Darius’s head as he listened to my heartbeat.

Kate: Yes, I’m right here.

At my words, Darius placed his hand over my heart.

Darius: I will not permit you to leave me from this day forward. Nor will I allow this heart to stop beating.

Darius: Because you are—my most precious person.

Tears welled in my eyes at his words, and I tightened my hold on him.

Darius laughed happily and pressed a kiss against my chest.

Darius: I have to give you an answer to that thing you’ve said to me over and over again.

Kate: Eh?

He pulled back, a crinkled smile spreading across his face.

That smile didn't belong to an angel or a devil...... it was the human smile of a man named Darius.

Darius: I believe you've managed to prove it.

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Mad Love Chapter 25

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Father: Are you already this busy just after getting back to work? Father: You still need to take more care of your health.

As I was getting ready to head out this morning, my father called with a concerned greeting.

Actually, he hasn't been living at home these past few days. It's likely out of respect for my habits—a way to preserve a sense of normalcy in my daily life.

He fixed up a small place nearby and checks in on me from time to time.

Sometimes it’s a home-cooked dinner, and other times it’s a caring phone call, like right now.

In this slightly eerie world, my father’s loving words feel strangely surreal.

Youran: I’m doing fine! Don't worry! Youran: Dad, I’m not a child anymore.

I instinctively tried to hold onto the moment, but something deep inside me continued to waver.

Gentle words echoed in my ear as the dark front door stood before me.

I pushed the door open, and the piercing light hit my retinas, sending a wave of vertigo through me.

Youran: Dad, why are you here?

I didn't even know why I was asking, but some questions just have a way of slipping out instinctively.

The other end of the line fell into a sort of silence before that familiar, tender voice finally drifted through.

Father: Because my business has finally come to an end. Father: After coming home, I was still worried you were just a child.

...

Child's Father: Does that damn school take me for a fool?

Youran: ……From the records, your son, Zhao Yang, seemed like a very sensible child. Have you given any thought as to why he would take his own life?

Child's Father: Why? It’s obviously the school's fault!

Child's Father: Do you have any idea how much money I poured into that boy? To make sure he’d amount to something, I bought only the best milk powder and supplements!

Child's Father: I never missed a single payment for his cram school. Now that he's gone, the school isn't going to compensate me?

Child's Father: Ptui! When it was time to pay tuition, every single one of them was faster than the next to take the cash. Now that something’s happened and they have to cough it up? They’re refusing?

Child's Father: I’m going to make a list of every cent I’ve invested over the years. They’re going to pay me back double.

Youran: ……Double?

Child's Father: I have to have another one, don't I? Does that not cost money? Is that not a cost?

Child's Father: I’m telling you, not only must they pay, they’re going to be responsible for taking care of me in my old age. The school owes me that much.

Youran: But regarding the reason your son jumped……

Child's Father: He’s already dead, why bother with that?!

Child's Father: You’re with the media, right! I’ll cooperate with whatever you need me to do. As long as I get my money, I’ll say whatever you want!

Child's Father: Don't you worry about them not having the money to pay out. That school isn't short on cash.

His frantic, hideous words manifested as bloodshot streaks in his eyes, blurring together with every cold or distorted face I had seen over the past few days.

A heavy, searing sensation, like a brand of red-hot iron, began to climb steadily from my chest.

My entire body trembled violently as I tried to suppress something. My temples throbbed incessantly, as if blurry fragments of images were flickering across my mind.

..

The boy sensibly tucked away every cent of pocket money the man and woman gave him. He ate a single biscuit before his small figure darted between various cram schools, large and small.

Child's Father: It’s okay. Your mother and I will give you the very best of everything, no matter what. You’re young, so don't worry about it too much. This bit of hard work is nothing.

Child's Father: Even if I have to sell everything we own, my son is going to have the best education. You won't be second to anyone!

It felt as though a voice flickered past, filled with a heavy yet prideful expectation.

It left the boy’s face pale, yet it also filled him with a desperate, driven resolve.

Child's Father: Spending money on you is just throwing it away.

Something suddenly evaporated into thin air. The boy was hammered against his desk by those ice-cold words. He clutched his head in his hands, his expression completely numb.

Piles of books and test scores became the walls and swords that trapped him. The man cornered him, repeatedly slashing at his body and stabbing at his eyes with the blade.

..

Countless moments of stifled, overlapping memories flashed before me. For a second, I couldn't tell what I was seeing—it felt like the collective grief of that deceased child manifesting in my mind.

Youran: ………Your child is not your property.

Youran: Has it ever occurred to you that your attitude might be one of the reasons he made that choice?

Child's Father: I provided for him, I fed him, and I paid for his education. Now he just goes and dies, and I’m the one not allowed to say I’ve been cheated?

Youran: ……Your child is dead, and all you can think about is being cheated and getting compensation?

Youran: What kind of mindset do you have to have to say something like that?

Child's Father: What’s that supposed to mean? You said you came here to learn about my son, and I told you it was the school's fault. Now you’re turning around and blaming me?

Child's Father: We’re done here. Forget the interview. This is garbage.

With that, he stood up and lunged toward the camera standing nearby.

I instinctively moved to stop him, but he moved as if to shove me aside.

Child's Father: What do you think you're doing? Watch it, or I'll sue you!

He reached out, intending to hurl me further away, but as he swung his hand, it was suddenly caught and locked in mid-air—

Gavin stood coldly behind the man, his black leather gloves glinting with a sharp, metallic chill.

I couldn't tell how long he had been there. His gaze swept over my face before coming to rest on the man's grimacing features.

Gavin: Mind your tongue.

Child's Father: Oh, Officer, you’re here! It was this woman—she started being unreasonable first, saying all these bizarre things.

Child's Father: That thing you asked me to look into, about my son's social circle? I’ve checked everything.

Child's Father: I'm telling you, none of them are any good. There was definitely some negative influence involved! Once I’m done suing the school, I’m coming for every single one of those parents!

As he spoke, he began rummaging through a thick stack of documents on the dining table.

Gavin shifted his gaze back to me, his look clearly signaling for me to leave.

I looked at him but quietly averted my eyes, refusing to take the hint.

Gavin: This is an STF investigation.

Youran: ....The Evolver Company is still filming. Regardless, I was here first.

Gavin: He just said he’s done.

Youran: But you stopped him from leaving, so our recording is still technically in progress.

At that, he arched an eyebrow. With one long stride, he was at the camera. Before the cameraman could even react, Gavin’s black-gloved finger pressed the power button.

Then he looked back at me, looking completely justified in his actions.

I was just about to argue back when that excited voice piped up again.

Child's Father: Found it, Officer! Look at this.

Child's Father: His social media spaces, his Weibo, his Douyin account—oh, and his diary. I had his mother tear through every single one of them.

Stripped-down, jarring details had been bled onto the pages as printed images—it was as if someone had peeled back the boy's skin only to drag out his bones and nerves for display.

Child's Father: I'm going to post all of this online and let everyone see!

Youran: How could you treat what he left behind like this?!

Youran: He’s already gone. Is this really how you’re going to handle his private thoughts?

Child's Father: What’s it to you? If you don't want to film it, I'll find another outlet. You think you're the only media company in Loveland City?

Child's Father: I'm telling you right now, I don't give you permission to release anything we filmed today! If you dare publish a single word...

Gavin: Are these all the records?

Gavin: What about that electronic watch you mentioned he wore? Have you found it yet?

Interrupted by that icy tone, the man instantly shut up and turned back to Gavin, acting respectful once more.

Child's Father: We actually haven't found that. Theoretically, he should have been wearing it every day.

Child's Father: I bet the school hid it! There’s probably some decisive evidence in there!

Gavin: Understood.

Gavin: Thank you for your cooperation.

He turned to leave, but as if remembering something, he paused. He cast a warning look in my direction.

I pursed my lips and signaled to the cameraman. I still gave the man a small, professional nod.

Youran: Thank you for your time today.

Child's Father: Just get out!

Youran: ......

I knit my brows and walked quickly toward the door, but I couldn't stop myself from turning back one last time in anger.

Youran: Just for a single moment... have you missed that child at all?

My only answer was the blunt, heavy thud of the door slamming shut.

I stood there blankly, the hollow void within me tearing further open, leaving a gaping wound devoid of any warmth.

There were already so many reasons for this tragedy to have occurred.

I couldn't even tell if what was happening before me was simply the way things were, or if it was the result of the same influence that had been changing everyone else.

Exactly when did it start? When were that child—and those other children—swallowed whole?

After leaving the residential complex, the cameraman had the sense to get in the car first, leaving me standing alone at the main gate.

Gavin said nothing, simply straddling the seat of his motorcycle.

Youran: Gavin, that child… he didn't deserve to be treated like that.

Gavin: Every family has their own way of dealing with their children.

Gavin: It has nothing to do with us.

Youran: But……!

When I looked up, those amber eyes weren't filled with anger; instead, they were terrifyingly still, pinning me to the spot instantly.

The back of his hand on the handlebar was pulled taut, trembling almost imperceptibly.

Gavin: No one chooses their parents.

Gavin: If you can't endure it, you fight.

Gavin: If you can't fight, you run.

Youran: ......

I had almost never seen this side of Gavin, yet it felt strangely familiar.

He stood a short distance away from me, isolated and sharp, like a man made of jagged edges.

But those edges were peculiar; it was as if they grew inward as well, piercing into his own flesh.

Youran: And what if... they can't win the fight, but they're too afraid to run?

Gavin stood perfectly still, like a silent tower.

For a split second, I thought he was going to rev the engine and leave.

But he didn't.

He watched me without blinking, the wind gently brushing the hair over his forehead. In that moment, his eyes looked exactly as they had when he was eighteen.

Furious, struggling. Unwilling to forgive himself, yet wanting to hide away.

Gavin: Then you become stronger.

Gavin: Strong enough to have the courage to make a choice. Any choice.

Youran: Is that courage... really just because they "became strong"?

I couldn't find a more precise way to put it. But I felt that beyond just "strength," there should be something else more important supporting those unfortunate children.

Like a promise filled with resolve, a bit of warm companionship, a figure to look up to, or a fleeting moment full of love.

Gavin didn't answer. A flash of doubt seemed to flicker in his eyes at my question, and his grip on the handlebar tightened further.

Youran: In your eyes..... do you think Zhao Yang made a choice?

Gavin: The investigation is still ongoing. I will find the answer.

What about you?

I bit my lip, leaving the question unasked.

He lowered his eyes and moved to pull his helmet on.

Youran: ………Gavin, don't you think we shouldn't judge a child so harshly?

Youran: Does one really... have to be such a strong child?

Gavin hunched his shoulders, his body going completely still.

Youran: A child shouldn't have to be the one to satisfy their parents' expectations or carry the weight of their disappointments.

Youran: I know I'm speaking in high-minded platitudes, and I can't instantly change every irresponsible parent out there.

Youran: But I'm going to keep doing this. I'll keep speaking out, saying the things I believe are right.

Youran: I want to tell every child that they aren't a mistake, they aren't a waste, and they aren't fighting alone.

Youran: I'll be angry right alongside them.

The moment the words left my mouth, darkness suddenly surged over me. A cold, hard sensation covered my vision, completely shielding his figure from my sight.

As if trying to avoid me, Gavin had once again forcefully shoved a motorcycle helmet onto my head.

Youran: ………What are you doing?

Gavin: ......

He seemed to have reacted purely on instinct, looking as though even he didn't quite understand his own behavior. It took a long while before he managed to squeeze out a few words.

Gavin: Don't look at me.

His voice sounded like a warning, yet it lacked any real conviction, stretched thin into a stiff, flat line.

Gavin: ……Whatever you choose to do is your business.

Gavin: You don't need to explain it to me.

All the clues gathered from outside the campus and the materials provided by the parents seemed to point toward the same conclusion—it appeared the high school students had indeed committed suicide.

Youran: ……So this really is just a tragedy born from family upbringing?

Thinking of the parents I had visited, I knit my brows. I directed the team at the company to organize the findings from the past few days of investigation while I hurried toward Loveland High School.

After a series of discussions and persistent persuasion, and thanks to my status as a distinguished alumna, the dean at Loveland High finally agreed to let me conduct a brief interview and investigation.

Of course, this was granted under the strict condition that I must not create any unnecessary negative publicity for the school.

I walked through the campus, my gaze resting heavily on the academic buildings.

Even if this was just an ordinary social tragedy, I wanted to see it through to the end.

Instinctively, the lonely image of Gavin’s back as he drove away three days ago flickered through my mind.

Suddenly, the moment I brushed past the security guard, a sharp wave of vertigo surged through my brain, making me knit my brows in pain.

??: Just... here... I... didn't...

??: Received... lock appearing...

??: Key... locked...

I heard a cacophony of voices flowing over strange, blurry images. Chaotic fragments of speech rose and fell one after another, yet they were laced with a hint of familiarity.

What is this? Who are these people?

I gasped for air and braced myself against the trunk of a ginkgo tree, my eyes widening in sheer panic.

Until a clear, resonant voice rang out, like a golden ginkgo leaf drifting into my palm.

Gavin: You were the one who first discovered the scene, correct?

Gavin: STF. I’m here to get the details.

He stood quietly before me as the scene around us began to dissolve and melt away, fading into a carpet of fallen leaves on the ground.

The view shifted back to the peaceful campus, as if everything I had just witnessed was nothing more than an illusory dream.

No... that’s not right.

I suddenly remembered that a similar situation had occurred back at Zhao Yang's house.

Youran: Could it be...

An incredible thought flashed through my mind. I fought to remain calm, forcing myself to recall those fractured, ethereal fragments.

Suddenly realizing something, I turned and ran toward the figure of the security guard not far away.

Security Guard: Are you finished with your investigation?

The only familiar voice from those fragments spoke, providing a sort of confirmation for my theory.

There was only one step left until I could be certain.

Youran: Not yet. I’m just waiting for the break between classes.

Youran: While I wait, I’d love to chat with you about your thoughts on the school. After all, in your position, you’re essentially the guardian of Loveland High.

Security Guard: Hah, guardian? It’s just a job.

The man waved his hand dismissively, though he couldn't hide the flicker of pride on his face from the compliment.

Youran: Speaking of which, do you know anything else about the children who passed away?

Security Guard: You shouldn't ask about that. I promised that police officer I wouldn't go around leaking information about the case.

Security Guard: He said he’d arrest me for some kind of information crime if I did!

Youran: Of course, of course. I wouldn't want to cause you any trouble. Let's just talk about Loveland High then.

I proceeded to ask him a few casual questions about the current state of the school.

As we wrapped up our conversation, I enthusiastically shook his hand, my instincts driving my power forward.

—Just as I suspected, I saw the man's memories.

My memory Evol has returned to my body.

I was stunned for a moment. Ever since my ability was taken by Cyril at the Hotel of Hopes, I never imagined it would be possible to possess it again.

Is this an effect of the changes I’ve brought to the world?

Too many questions flooded my mind, but now wasn't the time to ponder them.

I immediately pulled my wandering thoughts back and focused on the guard's memory.

The power I hadn't used in so long felt surprisingly natural. Soon, I found exactly what I was looking for.

Gavin: You were the one who first discovered the scene, correct?

Gavin: STF. I’m here to get the details.

He stood before me once again, just as he had in the fragments, his amber eyes filled with a cold, piercing scrutiny.

Security Guard: Ah, yes, that’s right, Officer.

Gavin: Tell me what happened on the 18th.

Security Guard: Uh... I-I found them at five in the morning while I was patrolling the playground...

Security Guard: I was terrified. I didn't dare look too closely, so I just called the police right away.

Gavin: You were also on patrol on the night of the 17th, right?

Security Guard: Yes. Classes end at eight, and by eight-thirty, most of the students are gone.

Security Guard: We start a final sweep around 8:50 to make sure no one is lingering on campus overnight.

Security Guard: I remember it clearly. I was responsible for the east side.

Security Guard: I have an alarm on my phone that goes off at nine every night. I was passing the small basketball court on the east side when the alarm went off, which brought me right to the spot where they fell.

Security Guard: That whole area was a wide-open space back then. Forget a body—there wasn't a single person in sight.

Gavin: How many minutes did it take you to walk through that area?

Security Guard: ……No more than five minutes at most. I didn't hear a thing.

Gavin: Do you have the keys to the rooftop?

Security Guard: Yes. There are only two keys to the roof—one for loaning out and one spare. Both stay in the security office.

Gavin: According to the surveillance footage provided, a student's hand appeared around the corner at 9:03 PM on the 17th.

Security Guard: That’s impossible! I told them that during my statement! I was right there at nine o’clock. There was no one!

Security Guard: Four people jumping... I’m not deaf! There’s no way I wouldn't hear that! And there was so much blood!

Security Guard: I even underwent one of those brain scans, and the results were fine!

Gavin simply gave him a faint, scrutinizing look. Tang Chao, standing by his side, gave a slight nod.

Security Guard: But since the STF is involved, it must be because of Evols, right? Are those little monsters the ones causing trouble?

Gavin: Thank you for your cooperation.

Gavin: If we need anything further, we’ll be in touch.

Gavin: Due to the confidential nature of this investigation, you are not to disclose anything from today or your previous statements to anyone else.

He turned away as decisively as a sharp gust of wind. However, I caught the instinctive furrow of his brow—his deep amber eyes looked as though a storm was brewing within them.

I watched his departing figure within the memory and then proceeded to double-check the guard's memories from that night once more.

The alarm clock going off like clockwork, the deserted corner—everything was exactly as he had described.

The image of them lying in a pool of blood was so vivid it only took a split second to leave a lasting impression. I couldn't bear to look, yet within that chaotic vision, I noticed a subtle sense of distortion.

It was as if a flicker of transparent flame had swept through, giving the edges of the walls a terrifying, fluid quality.

But that moment was too brief. No matter how many times I re-examined it, the only result was my growing confusion.

Everything about this pointed toward something strange and contradictory, yet there were truly no traces of this man's memory being altered.

If all of this actually happened, could it be related to an Evol?

I quietly withdrew from the security guard's memory and offered my thanks. Just then, the bell for the lunch break rang out.

Watching the academic building gradually come to life, I thought back to the expression I had just seen on Gavin’s face in that memory.

Gavin... aside from this suicide case... is there another reason you're looking so desperate?

Student A: Wang Xiangyu? I’m not close with him. He didn’t really like talking to anyone anyway.

Student B: He was fine before, right? But since sometime last semester, I don’t know what happened, he’d just blow up over the smallest things. It felt like he thought the whole world was out to get him.

Student A: Paranoid delusions, probably. He thought everyone was obsessed with him, but honestly, nobody gave a damn.

Student C: Zhao Yang? Yeah, he was my seatmate. He was just... normal? He went to class and studied like everyone else.

Student C: Sure, I guess we were friends. But we’re not little kids anymore—do we really need to ask each other "how are you feeling today" every single morning? He seemed fine before.

Student D: I really never expected Zou Chunying to be the type to jump. She looked so small and her voice was always so quiet. She was actually pretty brave.

Student E: Hey, miss, so was Tian Jing really a suicide? Do you have any inside info? Let me have something to brag about to my classmates. Things have been so boring lately.

Student F: I didn't know them. Besides, there are too many people on Earth anyway; the planet is practically bursting. It doesn't really matter if a few people die, especially if they did it on purpose.

Student G: Speaking of which, Wan You from our class hasn't shown up for a few days. He isn't trying to follow the trend, is he?

Dean: These children were all just ordinary students. Their grades were mostly middle-of-the-pack for their respective classes, and none of them really stood out.

Dean: I have no idea why they’d suddenly pull a stunt like this. It’s caused nothing but trouble for everyone. They were so thoughtless.

Youran: .....

A cacophony of voices flowed past me like a rushing stream.

The waves crashed against black jagged rocks, kicking up a spray of white foam that splattered against me, leaving behind a lingering chill.

A sense of profound coldness and detachment was spreading like a contagion, leaving the eyes of every child looking utterly hollow.

I stopped in my tracks instinctively as I passed Class 3-7.

Gazing at that seat by the window, I held my breath softly.

This place felt like the Loveland High from my memories, yet it seemed so foreign at the same time—

Just like this world, and just like Gavin.

I wondered if the rebellious boy who once sat there had ever felt as full of doubt and confusion as I did now.

When the world casts its fences of isolation, could I remain as unwavering as the boy you used to be?

But the wind was gentle, and there was no cold, distant boy at that quiet desk to turn his head and give me an answer.

Suddenly, I felt a gaze land on me.

My heart tightened, and I spun around on instinct, but there were only students coming and going—no one in particular stood out.

Youran: ………Stop overthinking it.

I let out a sigh, taking one last look at Gavin’s old seat before turning to head downstairs.

...

As I passed the small basketball court, a patch of open ground came into view.

The shaded area felt somewhat chilly in this season. The ground was spotless, with stray ginkgo leaves drifting down in silence.

I examined the edges of the walls again, but I couldn't find that subtle sense of distortion from the security guard's memory.

It was as if nothing had ever happened. The world was profoundly quiet, one cloud melting into another.

I sighed with a sense of helplessness and looked up.

A sharp, piercing gaze—one that had no time to look away—collided with mine at that very moment—

Gavin was standing at the very edge of the rooftop, looking down at me.

My mind went blank for a second. By the time I came to my senses, I realized I had already poured every ounce of my strength into shoving open the rooftop door.

The clear sky looked like a sheet of colored glass, glowing with a distant, brilliant light. The autumn sun hung low in the west, casting a shadow from Gavin that was neither too long nor too short.

In contrast to my heavy, ragged breathing, he didn't even turn around. He seemed lost in thought, perhaps imagining the children who had met their ends here.

Youran: You……

Gavin: What are you afraid of?

Noticing my panic, he spoke casually while taking a step out into thin air—

Gavin didn't fall, of course. He simply remained suspended in the sky.

The wind caught his clothes, tracing a silhouette that looked like a desperate gamble.

He looked like a fifth child hanging in the air.

I stared at his figure, looking again and again, before finally stepping forward to meet his gaze as he turned his head.

Youran: Are you okay?

Gavin: .....

His brow furrowed, and in the next second, he stepped onto the iron railing of the rooftop, blocking out most of the autumn sun.

Gavin: Don't worry. I've fallen from here before.

Gavin: I won't fall again.

The youth half-crouching on the railing looked down at me coldly. His face was hidden in the shadows, but his eyes were strikingly bright.

For a moment, it was impossible to tell if he was just being stubborn or making a declaration.

Looking at him like this, I could only murmur.

Youran: Why did you fall from here?

Gavin: There's nothing to say about the past.

Youran: ……But I want to know.

Gavin: I don't need your sympathy.

He stood up straight, just as he had many years ago, his face masked in a distant, rebellious indifference that kept everyone at arm's length.

Those eyes that were once filled with joy were too beautiful, too bright—so much so that they made me forget how he had armed himself, step by step, to fight against the world.

He was so strong, so free-spirited, that I almost forgot whether there were too many unresolved knots in his heart and a soul that had once been covered in scars.

Looking at that defiant face, I realized I had never seen his stubborn, dangerous eyes as clearly as I did in this moment.

An intense wave of emotion surged within me, and I felt my eyes begin to sting. I simply bit my lip, grabbed the iron railing, and began to climb up.

Gavin: .....What are you doing?!

I ignored him, climbing toward the top of the railing step by step, trembling as I tried to stand up.

The iron bar was so thin that it vibrated slightly with every gentle gust of wind.

I didn't know what kind of mindset those children had when they climbed up here, nor did I know how Gavin—who had just mentioned falling—felt when he stepped onto the edge of this roof.

A massive wave of vertigo gnawed at my heart, and I felt my entire body shaking, only to have my palm gripped tightly by him in the next instant.

Gavin: What are you try—

Youran: Now we're in the same place, Gavin.

He seemed to stop breathing instantly.

Youran: It's so high up here… I'm already terrified. Those children, and… you, must have been so scared, right?

Gavin: I was in a fight. It's not the same as them.

Youran: Pushing someone down during a fight is even worse.

I looked at him, only to see him avert his eyes uncomfortably.

Youran: Were you hurt back then?

He seemed to stiffen. His fingertips tightened around mine instinctively, as if he were holding onto something vital.

Gavin: No.

Gavin: I....

Gavin: I got lucky.

Youran: ....That’s a relief.

The heart I had been holding in my throat finally settled, and I squeezed his hand back firmly.

Youran: I wasn't trying to pity you........ I just want to understand you. I want to know more about you. I want to stand by your side.

Youran: Thank you for telling me, Gavin.

Gavin: You'd be too noisy if I didn't.

I couldn't help but snicker. He looked rare and flustered as he pulled me along and jumped back down onto the platform.

Youran: Do you think someone is really trying to harm those children?

Gavin: Based on your company's reports, you should know perfectly well that this was an ordinary suicide case.

Youran: So you actually read our reports! I heard our click-through rate hasn't been great lately.

Gavin: ......

He went dead silent, his face darkening slightly, which only made my smile grow wider.

Youran: According to my current investigation, that's how it looks, but that's only part of it.

Youran: I found something else very strange today, and at the same time, I saw you here.

Gavin: What does that have to do with me?

Youran: If this really were just a suicide case, you wouldn't have been investigating it for this long.

Youran: You doubt it. And I... I trust your intuition.

He froze, his eyes blinking before he instinctively looked away again.

Gavin: Whatever.

But soon, Gavin turned and started walking away, acting as if he were heading for the rooftop door.

Indifference and distance became the wind that wrapped around him once more, making my heart ache with bitterness. My eyes burned, but I could only force a wry smile.

Youran: Ever since I came back, you always seem to want to leave the moment you see me.

Gavin: I do not.

He denied it almost the exact same second.

The reply came so fast it seemed to startle even him.

In the end, Gavin just planted his feet firmly. As if giving up, he swung the door shut, then marched back in his combat boots, grabbed my wrist, and sat me down with him on the steps.

Gavin: I was just closing the door.

His tone was a bit gruff and his body was stiff. He kept his face turned away, making it impossible to read his expression.

Everything became very quiet. Even the wind died down.

Gavin seemed tense and restless, leaving me unsure of what to say for a moment.

Gavin: I just don't know...

Gavin: How I'm supposed to be by your side.

I don't know what the distance between our fingers should be, or how long my gaze is allowed to linger on you.

I don't know what pace I should use to walk toward you, or the right tone to use when I speak. I don't know how to catch your tears or how to treasure your smiles.

I don't know why the version of me in my memories could hold your hand and look into your eyes so naturally, beyond just the duty of protecting you.

I don't know if I can still walk toward you with confidence, now that I've forgotten how we used to be together.

I don't know why I’m still standing here when there are clearly more important things to attend to.

I don't know the reason why I absolutely have to stay by your side.

Too many unspeakable questions flood my mind, and ever since you reappeared, everything has become even more frustrating and contradictory.

I like you.

But those three simple words aren't enough to encompass all of my hesitation and distress.

Youran: Gavin... how do you view everything that happened between us in the past?

Gavin: I believe I fulfilled my promise and protected you as I should have.

Gavin: But that was my sanctuary.

Like a brilliant summer break, a bright full moon, or a gentle, fleeting breeze.

She would comfort him, light his way... and pass him by. The one who was drifting and cowardly was him.

Youran: .....Do you feel like you were the one being protected?

Gavin: It’s that I wasn't strong enough.

In his memories, he was too passive, too hesitant, too weak—too desperate to stay reflected in her beautiful eyes.

Gavin: My summer break has to end.

He should be returning to the heart of the storm.

Yet, why did simply saying it out loud make his irritation flare up even more?

Gavin: .....But I'll find the answer.

I saw him resting one hand on the back of his neck, head tilted slightly back.

His expression was troubled yet sincere, and even the line of his jaw looked perfect in the light.

I gave a soft laugh.

Even though something had clearly happened, I knew that Gavin was still himself at his core.

Youran: Is there a certain way you’d prefer me to act around you?

Gavin: You just need to be yourself.

Youran: I feel the same way.

Youran: Gavin, for me, I want you to be yourself, too. You don't need to become anything... or anyone we expect you to be.

Youran: I once read something in a book about how summer vacation is a luxury of time, belonging only to boys who stare at the clouds and dream.

I stood up and faced him.

Youran: You already have a place you need to go and things you need to do, don't you?

Gavin: I’m not eighteen anymore.

Youran: Neither am I. At sixteen, I wouldn't have dared to stand in front of you like this.

I looked at him with a smile and raised my hand, pointing at him as if issuing a challenge.

Youran: I'm not your summer break.

Youran: I'm the person who will search for answers and stir up the storm right alongside you.

.

.

.

.

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Chapter 1-15

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Kagetoki: Being a bushi......

Kagetoki: To put it simply, it is the worst possible profession.

Yoshino: Huh?

Kagetoki: And to put war into words—it is the absolute pits.

(That’s barely any different!)

Kagetoki: Risking one's life for the sake of a conviction is nothing short of madness. It’s completely irrational.

I stood there speechless, stunned by how boldly he made such an unexpected claim.

Yoshino: Irrational? But you're Yoritomo-sama's right-hand man...... is it really okay to have that kind of attitude......?

Kagetoki: Compared to the final result, one's attitude is a trivial matter.

Kagetoki: To me, being a bushi is merely a job. My relationship with the Shogunate is strictly professional.

Yoshino: Well, in a way, that does sound like you, Kagetoki-san. It makes sense.

Kagetoki: I'm glad to hear it. It is often said that living true to oneself is the best way to be, after all.

(I feel like you'd need some kind of inner fire to fight in a war, but I guess it’s different for Kagetoki-san.)

Kagetoki: An organization lasts longer when it harbors a few outliers.

Kagetoki: There is no need for you to force yourself to share the same perspective as the other bushi.

(Is that how it works?)

Though my doubts hadn't entirely vanished after his flat declaration, I felt a weight lift from my shoulders.

Kagetoki: Of course, you don't need to share my perspective either.

Kagetoki: Just as you and I differed in how we handled a child crying over their murdered parent......

Kagetoki: You must find the perspective that only you, as Yoshino the apothecary and the fox-possessed, can possess.

Yoshino: A perspective only I can possess......

Kagetoki: For someone like you, who has tried to discern the truth for yourself since the moment you arrived at the palace, it shouldn't be all that difficult.

A man as strict as Kagetoki-san would never offer empty encouragement or careless deceptions.

Because I knew that, his words sank straight into my heart.

Yoshino: —Yes! Thank you so much, Kagetoki-san.

Kagetoki: You certainly are quick to smile.

Amidst the wind, Kagetoki-san narrowed his eyes with a soft, slightly exasperated look.

(It’s not fair for Kagetoki-san to suddenly smile like that.)

Just as I was wondering how to respond, I saw one of Kagetoki-san's subordinates walking toward us.

Bushi 1: Kagetoki-sama, do you have a moment? I'd like to consult you regarding our route.

Kagetoki: Very well.

Yoshino: Then I'll just take a walk around here.

Kagetoki: Fine. Just don't wander too far.

I gave a small bow to Kagetoki-san's subordinate and stepped away.

I took a drink of the lake's clear water and was enjoying a light stroll when......

(Hm? That man......)

I spotted an elderly bushi sitting by the base of a tree, rubbing his lower back.

Yoshino: Um, excuse me. Does your back hurt?

Elderly Retainer: Eh? Ah, yes. Traveling by horseback for so long is taking a toll on these old bones. It’s a pitiful thing.

Yoshino: That sounds painful. If you'd like, would you let me take a look? I'm an apothecary.

Elderly Retainer: Oh! Really? That would be a great help.

(I’m glad I brought some medicine with me just in case.)

After asking a few questions, I applied a light moxibustion treatment using loquat leaves to soothe the pain.

As he lay face down, the elderly retainer's expression relaxed into a smile.

Matsue: Thanks to you, I feel much better. My name is Matsue.

Yoshino: It’s nice to meet you! I’m—

Matsue: You're Yoshino-san. I’ve heard many rumors about you.

Yoshino: A-are there bad rumors going around?

Matsue: No, no. I’ve been curious about you for a while, having heard there was a woman who could assist with Kagetoki-sama's work without being reduced to tears.

I couldn't help but laugh at his playful tone.

Yoshino: I’ve come close to crying plenty of times, though.

Matsue: Haha, I don't doubt it. Kagetoki-sama is quite merciless, after all.

(The way Matsue-san talks about him isn't like the others—he doesn't seem to be avoiding Kagetoki-san out of fear.)

Yoshino: Matsue-san, have you known Kagetoki-san for a long time?

Matsue: I have served the Kajiwara family since he was a young child.

Yoshino: Since he was that small......! What was Kagetoki-san like back then?

I leaned in, unable to hide my curiosity.

(I really can't imagine Kagetoki-san as an innocent child at all.)

Matsue: Let me see......

Matsue-san placed a hand on his chin, lost in thought, before finally speaking.

Matsue: He was never an ordinary child from the very beginning.

Yoshino: Huh?

Matsue: Despite being born into a military family, Kagetoki-sama was an eccentric who did nothing but read books.

Matsue: He was a child prodigy who memorized everything he saw, read, or heard—a genius whose thinking surpassed even the adults around him.

Matsue: Naturally, he couldn't fit in with the other children. He was especially shunned by the sons of other bushi.

Yoshino: He was that smart even as a child......

Matsue: Yes. To the point where those around him were actually terrified.

With that, Matsue-san shared a memory from a certain day.

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: Do you understand why you’ve been summoned here, Kagetoki?

Kagetoki: I have a few theories.

The young Kagetoki, standing before his grandfather, answered in a composed, adult tone without a hint of hesitation.

Matsue: .......

Matsue, who had been ordered to attend as his caretaker, watched the situation unfold with bated breath.

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: I heard that yesterday, the two children who were particularly cruel to you had a massive brawl on the mountain behind the village.

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: Apparently, the fight was so violent that one of them nearly fell off a cliff.

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: Even the adults are scratching their heads, wondering how two childhood friends who were practically brothers could turn on each other so suddenly.

Kagetoki: Is it not because their bond was so deep that once the seeds of hatred were sown, they were able to bear fruit all the more quickly?

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: ........

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: I hear the other children are acting strange as well. They’ve stopped inviting one another to play, and they’ve grown lax in their martial arts training......

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: It’s as if they are constantly anxious, or perhaps... terrified of something they can't even name.

Kagetoki: Is that so? How unfortunate for them.

The grandfather closed his eyes before the boy who spoke with such utter indifference, then continued as if bracing himself.

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: —Kagetoki. Was this all your doing?

Kagetoki: Yes. That is correct.

Matsue: How could this be......

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: ......Tell me. What on earth did you do to them?

Kagetoki: It was nothing significant. First, I spread false rumors to drive a wedge between them......

Kagetoki: Once they split into factions exactly as I intended, I approached each group and whispered sweet deceptions into their ears.

Kagetoki: By repeating this cycle of manipulation and betrayal, the children eventually became consumed by paranoia......

Kagetoki: The two with the shortest tempers simply ended up destroying each other.

Neither the grandfather nor Matsue could immediately process the explanation given so nonchalantly.

Matsue: You’re saying you gained complete control over their hearts and manipulated them like pawns......?

Kagetoki: I imagine I’ll be able to do it even more efficiently next time. Though, I hope the occasion does not arise.

Groaning, the grandfather pressed a hand to his temple.

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: Kagetoki. Is this revenge? If it is, you should have consulted me sooner. No......

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: It is my responsibility for failing to realize you had been pushed so far.

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: Because you always kept such a calm face, I dismissed it as nothing more than childish teasing and left you to deal with it alone.

Kagetoki: ......

After tilting his head slightly, Kagetoki murmured.

Kagetoki: No, this was not revenge.

Kagetoki: I didn't care if they insulted me or hid my belongings.

Kagetoki: Even the occasional bit of violence...... well, I didn't think it was worth making a fuss over.

Matsue: Then, why......?

Kagetoki: A month ago, they tore the book I was reading. It is quite inconvenient to be unable to read the ending.

Before the two stunned adults, Kagetoki’s eyes—which still held a lingering trace of childhood innocence—shone with a cold, deep light.

Kagetoki: —I simply wanted to read in peace. So, I devised a plan to make that a reality. That is all.

Kagetoki’s Grandfather: That is all, is it? You......

Kagetoki: Have I done something wrong? Grandfather.

..

Yoshino: To think something like that happened......

Matsue-san let out a long sigh as he finished his story.

Matsue: That was the first and only time I have ever felt true terror toward a child of such a tender age.

(I can see why. That goes way beyond the scope of a typical childhood spat.)

(If it had been done in the heat of the moment, it would be one thing, but Kagetoki-san was calm and meticulous.)

Yoshino: What happened after that......?

Matsue: Since he hadn't technically laid a hand on anyone himself, Kagetoki-sama’s actions were never made public.

Matsue: Though his grandfather scolded him, he seemed at a loss for how to properly teach him the error of his ways......

Matsue: After a while, he bought him a koto.

Yoshino: A koto?

The image of Kagetoki-san plucking at the strings of a koto—an instrument he was by no means skilled at—came to mind.

Matsue: His grandfather told me then:

Matsue: "That boy’s intellect is extraordinary. In the future, he will either become a genius who brings revolution to the world......"

Matsue: "Or he will become a great villain feared by all."

Yoshino: A genius, or a great villain......

Matsue: Yes. To prevent the latter, he wanted him to touch the sounds of music—an area where he lacked talent—as a way to humble himself and learn restraint.

Yoshino: ......So that's why Kagetoki-san makes playing the koto a part of his daily routine.

Matsue-san nodded at my wide-eyed realization.

Matsue: I cannot say for sure how much his grandfather’s concerns influenced him......

Matsue: But for Kagetoki-sama, a man who never does anything without a purpose, the fact that he still continues his koto practice to this day... I believe that is your answer.

(I used to wonder why he bothered playing the koto when he never seemed to get any better at it......)

Yoshino: Matsue-san, thank you for sharing this with me.

Matsue: Not at all. It puts my mind at ease to know that a kind woman like you is by Kagetoki-sama’s side.

In Matsue-san’s warm, narrowed eyes, perhaps he could still see the young Kagetoki from all those years ago.

(This man watched Kagetoki-san grow up, even while finding him frightening.)

Yoshino: Matsue-san, what do you think of Kagetoki-san now?

Matsue: Kagetoki-sama is not a man who seeks the understanding of others. His thoughts are far beyond the reach of an ordinary man like myself, but......

Matsue: I firmly believe he has become a genius. Kagetoki-sama is a man who will undoubtedly leave his mark on this world.

Yoshino: ......I believe so, too.

(And if possible, I’d like to stay by his side to see it happen.)

Seeing me nod softly, Matsue-san wore a look of quiet satisfaction.

...

That night...... we finally arrived in Kyoto.

Kagetoki: We will use this inn as our base and begin a full investigation into the movements of the court nobles starting tomorrow.

Yoshino: Right! And while everyone else is out investigating, Kagetoki-san and I are supposed to head to the Imperial Court to pay our respects first, correct?

I had been summoned to Kagetoki-san's room to discuss our plans for the following day.

(The Imperial Court...... That’s a place I never would have stepped foot in my entire life if I were living a normal existence.)

Without realizing it, my tension began to mount, and I clenched my fingers tight.

Yoshino: I have to make sure I behave properly tomorrow. Oh, but... what does behaving properly even look like there?

(I don't know the first thing about how to act in such a noble place. What if I end up embarrassing Kagetoki-san?)

Kagetoki: Just act as you normally do. It’s not as if anyone is expecting any special tricks from you.

Yoshino: ......Are you treating me like a dog again?

I gave him a playful glare before letting out a small sigh.

Yoshino: Besides, acting normal is the hard part. When I'm nervous, I feel like I'm bound to do something strange.

Kagetoki: Oh? In that case, perhaps I should teach you a few tricks after all.

(Eh?)

While still seated, he suddenly closed the distance between us, his handsome features drawing closer.

Yoshino: Kagetoki-san......?

Kagetoki-san placed his palm against my back as I tried to shift away, and for a moment, my breath hitched in my throat.

Kagetoki: Straighten your posture. People are foolish creatures; they prey on anyone who appears weak-willed.

Kagetoki: You are the trump card of the Shogunate. You may act as boldly as you please. You have my permission.

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Chapter 9

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Mitsuki: I...... I'm returning to my world on the night of the next full moon.

I made my confession to Drake on a night just a few days before the full moon was set to arrive.

Sitting across from me with a wine glass in hand, he widened his eyes in surprise.

Seeing that reaction made me feel a tiny spark of hope, but......

Drake: .......I see. That's good news then.

He immediately offered a smile and raised his glass toward me.

Drake: A toast to your smooth voyage. It’s a good thing, having a place to return to.

Mitsuki: Yeah...... I guess so.

I offered a stiff smile of my own and clinked my glass against his.

Drake: Since we’re talking about traveling across space and time, I don’t expect we’ll be seeing each other again. Take care of yourself.

Mitsuki: Yeah...... You too, Drake.

(Even though you called me your woman of destiny...... you're so casual about us saying goodbye.)

I drained my wine, the taste matching the bittersweet ache in my heart.

(In the end, I never even told him...... that I love him.)

Mitsuki: I just came by to tell you that tonight. I should probably get back to the mansion now.

I started to stand up, not wanting him to see the lingering regret on my face, when he suddenly grabbed my arm.

Drake: .......Don't go.

My heart leaped into my throat as I looked down at him.

(Could it be that Drake actually......?)

But before my hope could take shape, he let go of my hand as if it were nothing.

Drake: Sailors have a ceremony to celebrate when a comrade sets sail.

Drake: On the day of departure, we toast to the rising sun and drain our drinks in one go.

Drake: I'll give you a special send-off with that ritual, so come down to the Seine on the morning you're set to leave.

I pushed down the ache in my chest and forced a smile.

Mitsuki: Thank you, Drake. ......It'll be a wonderful memory.

(This is for the best. I’ll leave these unrequited feelings behind in this era.)

—

On the day Mitsuki was to return, Drake stood by the banks of the Seine, looking up at the sun as it climbed higher into the sky.

Drake: .......She’s not here.

Drake: Mitsuki isn't the type to break a promise. ......Did something happen?

Drake leaped from the boat and broke into a run toward the mansion.

...

—Awareness slowly drifted back to me, and I opened my eyes.

(......I feel like I’ve been asleep for a very long time.)

As my hazy gaze wandered, my eyes met with those of a strange man standing beside the bed.

???: Mitsuki! You're finally awake......

(Who is this person? How does he know my name......?)

???: How are you feeling? You've been asleep for a full day and night.

Mitsuki: G-gah...... Then, what about the door......?

???: Unfortunately, it already closed.

???: Well, it should open again in another month. Just take it easy until then.

(I can't believe it...... I thought I was finally going home, but now I have to wait another month.)

As I hung my head and looked down, the man peered at me with a worried expression.

???: What's wrong? Are you really feeling sick somewhere?

(He’s been acting strangely familiar this whole time, but......)

Mitsuki: Um...... who are you?

???: What kind of joke is that? I’m not even mad at you for breaking our promise.

Mitsuki: Drake...... Is that your name? And what promise......?

Drake: .......Look, little fawn. That’s enough of that—

Mitsuki: Little fawn...... Are you talking to me? Even if you tell me that’s enough......

Faced with a string of things I didn't understand, I tilted my head in total confusion, and the man—Drake—looked at me with a serious gaze.

Drake: Are you serious? You don't mean...... you've got amnesia?

Drake: Wait here. I’m going to go get someone.

After that, I spoke with everyone from the mansion who had rushed to my side, and it became clear that my memory loss was specific.

There was only one person missing from my memories—everything regarding Drake.

Drake: What...... So you're saying you've completely forgotten about me and only me?

Mitsuki: ......I'm so sorry.

Drake: ......Well, it can't be helped if it's gone. Sorry for bothering you, little fawn.

As he gave a wave and turned his back to me, a sudden, sharp ache throbbed in my chest.

(I don't remember a single thing about Drake...... and yet.)

Watching him leave the room, a surge of emotion I couldn't explain welled up inside of me.

...

Even as night fell, I couldn't stop thinking about him.

(Drake...... He’s apparently a pirate, but I wonder what kind of person he is?)

(And why is it that he's the only one I’ve forgotten......?)

I paced around the room searching for clues, and when I pulled open my desk drawer—

(Why do I have something like this......?)

It was a pistol, decorated with beautiful engravings.

Drake: —I’m the one who gave that to you.

Along with a sudden gust of night wind, I heard a voice.

I turned around and instinctively caught my breath.

Mitsuki: D-Drake......? Why are you...... ah!

Before I knew what was happening, he grabbed my arm and pulled me into his embrace.

Drake: I’m not one for giving up, Mitsuki.

Drake: I’ve come to take you back.

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Part 2

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