liam's star.

► INDIVIDUAL GAME MASTERLISTS

▻ Ikemen Villains イケメンヴィラン

⤷ Liam-Biased Masterlist

▻ Ikemen Sengoku: Eien イケメン戦国：永遠

▻ Ikemen Prince イケメン王子

▻ Ikemen Genjiden イケメン源氏伝

⤷ NOTICE: I'm currently working on editing the honorifics used in the stories e.g. change from "Lord Yoshitsune" to "Yoshitsune-sama" and fixing the translations for certain terms e.g. "yin-yang magic" to "onmyō techniques", so I apologise for any inconsistencies.

► GUIDES

▻ Ikemen Fanclub (IFC) Account Creation

▻ Pre-Registration via IFC

▻ Linking Game to IFC

▻ Buying Diamonds from IFC

▻ Game Data Transfer

▻ Club Animate Account Creation + Linking Game to Animate ID (+ONE games only)

▻ Ikemen Villains Birthday Event Guide

▻ Re: +99 4★ Cards (Ikemen Villains)

► OTHER LINKS

▻ Tags Guide (OLD. NOT UPDATED.)

Euren: Heeey～! I’m Euren, Libra’s very capable broker! 

Euren: You look like you have something to ask me, Little Robie. Each piece of information will cost you one kiss. 

Euren: Ah— I’m just kidding. Don’t run away～! As a token to show I’m sooo happy to meet you, I’ll give it to you for free. 

…

Option 1: What’s your Curse?

Euren: I have the Sea Witch curse. I took away the Little Mermaid’s voice in exchange for giving her legs. Super nice of me, right～? 

Euren: Like I did with her, I make sure to keep all my deals “fair”. 

Euren: I’m quite picky about what I like and don’t like, so… whether I accept a request entirely depends on my mood at that point of time～ 

…

Option 2: Why do you keep approaching me? 

Euren: Like a rough, unpolished stone hidden amongst Crown’s carefully selected gems… you caught my attention! 

Euren: You’ve been my Number 1 favourite, most interested thing lately, Little Robie. I won’t give up on you until I’ve stolen both your heart and body, so you’d better be ready for that. 

…

Option 3: No, I don't really have anything to ask… 

Euren: Eh? Nothing? Not even one thing…!? Waaah!! Give me your attention～!! ╥﹏╥

Euren: Fiiinee, I’ll tell you one thing anyway. My dream is to become your husband, Little Robie! 

Euren: AHHA! That look in your eyes gives me the chills. I want you to be colder to me～ it makes me even greedier to have you.

…

Starting from August 25th, Tuesday (JST),

Libra will be added to

💙 Standard Card Gacha

💙 Standard Avatar Gacha

💙 Coin Gacha

Euren

Point! Fashion 

It goes without saying that my most charming point is my fashion sense! 

It’s cool, right～? Do you like these things, little robin¹? 

I just can’t resist rare and unusual things. 

I hate wearing the same kind of clothes as everyone else too. 

I also really like how wide my sleeves are. 

They’re super convenient for hiding all sorts of things in them ♡ 

¹ Euren actually calls MC "Koma-chan 駒ちゃん" instead of "Komadori 駒鳥". I haven't thought of how to shorten "Little Robin" in English yet, so I'll keep it this way for now.

Point! Talk 

I’m confident with my words too. I’m good at figuring out what someone wants to hear, and telling them exactly that ♡♡ 

That’s why I’ve never had problems getting along with people～! 

Of course… I know that you want to hear too, little robin.

Zane Regulus

Point! Chest 

He’s got the build and physical strength to live up to his name “Beast”!! Frail little me is always super grateful for him because he can solve anything by simply overpowering everyone ♡ I bet he’d protect you with those rock-hard pecs too.

Point! Hair Style 

Looks like he ties his own hair. For someone rough and wild like him, being surprisingly dexterous is one of Zane’s cutest traits～. Apparently, he can sew too… so if you get the chance, maybe you could ask him to make something for you. 

Lucien Mortcendre 

Point! Height

Lucien’s height is his ultimate top-tier best trait～! I love the way him just standing behind me with that height makes me feel pressured like he’s going to kill me ♡ Wouldn't you get crushed by his entire body if it were you, little robin? 

Point! Beauty Mark 

The sexy m-o-l-e-s on his face. 

Just looking at the ones near his eyes, mouth, and on his neck, you know he has at least five. 

[ THE SCALA ] 

The spotlight shined brilliantly above the stage. 

Liam: “As in all stories of true love, the course of love never did run smooth”.  

Standing at the center of the stage, Liam shined brighter than any star in the sky. 

The audience was so captivated by his performance, they simply couldn't take their eyes off him, and even looked as though they almost forgot to breathe. 

Liam: “Love looks not with eyes, but with the mind… and therefore is winged Cupid painted blind”. 

Liam: “Brief as the lightning in the collied night, that, in a spleen, unfolds both heaven and earth…” 

Liam: “And, ere a man hath power to say, ‘Behold!’—” 

Liam: “The jaws of darkness do devour it up”. 

Liam: “So quick bright things come to confusion”. 

Thunderous applause and deafening cheers reverberated through the theatre. 

Watching from the second-floor balcony seats, I clapped in silence, too impressed to speak. 

(That was mesmerising…) 

Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” was a romantic comedy set in ancient Athens. 

Hermia flees into the forest with the man she loves, Lysander, hoping they could elope. 

Before running away, however, Hermia confides in her best friend, Helena. 

Helena, who is in love with Demetrius, tells him about the plan, prompting him to chase after the couple and stop their escape. 

Meanwhile, the Fairy King Oberon has a quarrel with his queen, Titania, and decides to use a magical love potion. 

But the potion was mistakenly used on the four young lovers in the forest, throwing their relationships into complete chaos. 

Watching the characters become hopelessly in love drew laughter from the audience, while moving their hearts at the same time. 

Curly Hair Lady: That was wonderful… I especially liked Liam as Lysander…

Freckles Lady: His acting has always been incredible, but he somehow gets even better with every performance… 

Freckles Lady: It’s like he’s finally shining with the powerful radiance a star should have… I don’t even have the words for it. 

Even the regular patrons couldn’t stop talking about the performance. 

Liam’s acting was that extraordinary. It almost felt as though he’d reached another level entirely. 

(All those days of rehearsing late into the night have finally paid off…) 

It should've made me feel nothing but joy to see his hard work being recognised by so many people, and yet I couldn’t bring myself to be happy for him wholeheartedly. 

Young Lady in Gaudy Dress: Liam was sooo handsome!! 

Black-Haired Young Lady: If a Lysander that handsome came up to me… I’d definitely fall in love! 

Young Lady in Gaudy Dress: I might even steal him away from Hermia! 

Hearing those words coming from the young women waiting outside the theatre made me press a hand against my chest. It felt like a cold wind had sweapt straight through my heart. 

(What’s the matter with me?) 

He shone like a star underneath the spotlight… and all I could do was watch him from the shadows of the audience. 

…

[ LONDON TOWN – PICCADILLY FOUNTAIN AREA ; DAYTIME ]

Gentleman with the Long Beard: Have you seen “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at The Scala? 

Lady in a Hat: Of course I have. The young man who played Lysander was absolutely magnificent! 

Harrison: Looks like everywhere you go, people are talking about The Scala. 

Kate: You’re right… 

For several days after the final performance of “A Midsummer Night's Dream”, almost everyone in London was talking about The Scala.

Critics praised it to the skies, calling it “a midsummer night dream brought to life”. 

And at the center of all the praise was Liam, his outstanding performance as Lysander and his handsome looks making him the talk of town. 

Harrison: And now they’re already moving on to their collaboration with Théâtre Météore, even before the excitement from their latest production’s died down. 

Harrison: It’s great they keep giving people something new to talk about, but it doesn’t look like they’ll be getting a proper break anytime soon. 

The upcoming collaboration with Théâtre Météore drew even more attention to The Scala.

And today, the auditions and cast introductions for “Hamlet” were being held. 

A large crowd had gathered outside the theatre, everyone hoping to catch a glimpse of the cast members. 

Harrison: … The staff entrance is on the other side. 

Harrison looked at the crowd and sighed. 

Kate: Yes, Li— he told me to use that entrance. 

I had a feeling we’d be mobbed the second I said Liam’s name. 

Harrison and I exchanged a look before quietly slipping into an alley. 

…

[ ALLEY ] 

Harrison: Come to think of it, I mentioned Liam’s name nearby The Scala the other day and got surrounded by fans. It was awful. 

Kate: Ah… 

I couldn’t help but laugh when I pictured the scene in my head, and Harrison sighed again. 

Harrison: Did you say you got chased through town by his fans not long ago? 

Kate: Yeah. We spent all day running from them.

Kate: I wouldn’t call that a normal date, but it was actually kind of fun being on the run together. 

I smiled at the memories of that wild chase. 

Harrison: … I mean, at least you enjoyed it. That’s all that matters.

Kate: ?

Tom: Oh, Kate! Harrison!! 

Just then, the staff entrance burst open and out came Tom wearing a huge smile. 

Kate: Tom! Did something happen? I thought auditions were still ongoing… 

Tom: They just ended! And you won’t believe what happened!! 

Harrison and I exchanged puzzled looks, then Tom threw his arms over each of our shoulders. 

Tom: Liam got the role of Hamlet!!! 

“Hamlet” was one of The Scala’s most loved productions, revived time and time again. 

Having already played Hamlet before, Liam had impressed even the actors from Théâtre Météore, and so he was chosen to lead the production nce again. 

…

[ THEATRE — STAGE ]

Kate: Liam!!! 

Liam: Kate! You came! 

Liam’s face lit up the second he spotted me while sitting at the edge of the stage, and quickly got up and ran to me. 

Kate: I heard you got the role of Hamlet…! 

Liam: How do you already know…? Ahh, Tom must’ve told you first. I wanted to be the one to tell you. 

Tom: Sorry, I was just too excited to keep it to myself…! 

Liam chuckled at Tom’s apologetic look and turned back to me. 

Liam: Kate. 

Seeing his face and smile so full of joy, I ran into his arms — or at least, I wanted to. 

Théâtre Météore Actress: Is that Liam Evans’ girlfriend? 

Théâtre Météore Elderly Actor: Bringing a woman who isn’t involved in the production backstage is highly unprofessional. 

Flirtatious Actor: So the handsome male lead gets a free pass to bring his sweetheart along? Lucky fellow.

A handsome man who carried himself with effortless charm stepped in front of me. 

With impeccable grace, he gave a courteous bow. 

Laurent: Good afternoon, mademoiselle. 

Laurent: I’m Laurent, one of Théâtre Météore’s leading actors. 

Laurent: I spent all this time looking for my angel… now it looks like I’ve finally found her.

Before Laurent could come any closer, Liam stepped between us and shielded me behind his back. 

Liam: I’m sorry, but she’s not your angel. She’s my brightest star, and there's no way I’m letting you have her. 

Laurent heard his firm response and whistled, then turned on his heel with  a nonchalant shrug of his shoulders. 

Laurent: You’re no fun. An actor who can’t even take a joke is boring～ 

I felt Laurent shoot me another piercing look, but couldn’t say a word. 

Director of Théâtre Météore: That’s enough from you, Laurent. 

The Director of Théâtre Météore, a man with white hair, entered the room and called out to him. 

Bianca: Why don’t we step outside for a minute? 

Bianca seized the chance to gently lead me out into the hallway. 

…

[ THEATRE – HALLWAY ]

Bianca: I’m sorry you had to experience that. It must’ve been unpleasant. 

Kate: It’s fine. It was my fault for trying to hug him in front of everyone… 

A part of me was well aware it was inappropriate to act impulsively in front of the actors from the prestigious Théâtre Météore, but I was simply too happy to see Liam. 

As I silently chided myself for my behaviour, Bianca heaved an exasperated sigh. 

Bianca: Don’t overthink it. That wasn’t because of you, it was because of jealousy. 

Kate: Jealousy? 

Bianca crossed her arms and explained, 

Bianca: Théâtre Météore intended to use us as a stepping stone, thinking a joint performance with The Scala would only boost their reputation. 

From the beginning, their plan was always to only cast The Scala’s actors in supporting roles. 

All of them assumed it was impossible for us to compete with them on equal footing, but the moment their director saw Liam perform, he couldn’t imagine anyone else playing the lead role. 

Bianca: And because their pride’s been bruised, they’re taking it out on Liam. 

(So that’s how it is…) 

Liam earned the role through nothing but pure skill and talent, and yet that made him the target of other people’s jealousy and resentment. 

Just then, Liam came rushing towards us…

Liam: Kate! Thank goodness you haven’t left yet!

Kate: Liam… 

Bianca gave me a playful wink before heading back into the theatre. 

Liam stopped in front of me and opened his arms again, but this time… 

Kate: Are you okay? 

Liam: With you by my side, I’ll be more than okay no matter what. 

Liam: Knowing that the person I love most in the world loves me back gives me enough motivation to keep going forever. 

With a tender smile, he took one step closer and wrapped his arms around me in a tight hug. 

Liam: Got you. And this time, I’m not letting you go. 

Kate: Fufu… then you’d better be prepared for me to never let you go either. 

The sweet, familiar scent of vanilla instantly melted away all the anxiety that had been building up in my heart. 

Resting my ear against his chest, I listened to his slow breaths. 

Liam: I really did it, Kate. I got the role. 

Liam: I was so nervous, I wasn’t sure I could perform the way I always do. But when I imagined you sitting somewhere out there in the audience… everything just came naturally. 

Liam: I knew I wanted you to see me at my best, and before I knew it, my body was moving on its own. 

Kate: Liam…

I looked up and gazed into his rose-coloured eyes. 

Liam: I stand on stage because I want to make everyone happy, but you’re the only person I’m thinking about all the time.

Liam: Does that make me a bad actor? 

Despite his words, he wore a happy smile, and I let myself run my fingers through his soft hair. 

Kate: I’m glad to hear that. There’s something on my mind that’s been bothering me lately too. 

Liam: Huh?

Kate: Ever since I watched “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, I keep getting a feeling that you’ve gone somewhere I could never reach. 

The endless applause and cheers, the dazzling spotlight — at the center of it all, my boyfriend shone like a star. 

I should've been happy, so why couldn’t I cerebrate from the bottom of my heart?

That was because somewhere deep down inside me, I’d felt as though he’d drifted further and further out of my reach. 

I think — I felt lonely.

Even though the man standing in front of me always had me on his mind. 

Hearing me confess what I’d been feeling, Liam pulled me even closer. 

Liam: I’m sorry. I had no idea you’ve been feeling that way. 

Kate: It’s not your fault, Liam. Those feelings were mine alone. 

Kate: But everything you just said made that loneliness disappear… Mm. 

He pressed a soft kiss to my lips. 

Liam: … I’m always thinking about you whenever I step onto the stage. 

Liam: What kind of expression you’re making, how happy you’ll be… that’s all I ever think about. 

Liam: So if you ever feel lonely again, I want you to remember what I told you today. 

Liam: That I’m a selfish actor who performs only thinking about you. 

His words made me chuckle. 

Kate: That’s very nice to hear, but I think you should at least spare a few thoughts for the rest of your audience too.

Liam burst into laughter, and then he stole another kiss. 

Liam: I do think of them somewhere in the back of my mind. But… everything else is just you. 

…

[ LONDON TOWN – PICCADILLY FOUNTAIN AREA ; RAINY ]

By the time I left the theatre, the weather had taken an unexpected change, and it was pouring rain outside. 

(Good thing I brought an umbrella.) 

Not wanting to distract Liam while rehearsals continued, I decided to return to the castle ahead of him. 

(Come to think of it, there’s another disappearance that happened on a rainy day.) 

The recent disappearance in the East End came to mind. 

It was already the fifth victim, and the police had finally started investigating. 

I hailed a carriage on the main street and was about to climb inside, when— 

(She looks like she deosn’t have an umbrella.) 

Beneath the eaves stood a petite figure wrapped in a cloak, sheltering from the rain. 

Long hair spilled out from beneath the hood, and she carefully lifted the hem of her vivid yellow dress to keep it from getting wet. 

Unable to ignore her, I hurried over. 

Kate: Umm, if you’d like, please take my umbrella! 

Woman in the Cloak: Huh? 

Kate: I’d hate for such a beautiful dress to get soaked in the rain. So please, take it! 

Coachman: We have to leave now! 

I quickly pressed the umbrella into the woman’s hands and gave her a quick bow before rushing back to board the carriage. 

The woman remained standing exactly where she was, clutching the umbrella until I was out of her sight. 

Another carriage came to a stop in front of the woman. 

The man inside frowned when he noticed the umbrella in her hand. 

Large Man: Where did you get that umbrella? 

The woman glanced down at it… and without warning, she smashed it against the ground. 

She smashed it again and again until it was broken, then she tossed the ruined umbrella aside. 

She climbed into the carriage and answered in a voice as cold as ice,

Woman in the Cloak: It’s nothing. 

// Shameless Self-Promo //

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A few days after the announcement of the joint production with Théâtre Météore, I was out on a mission with Liam and Harrison. 

(We’ve been tasked to come here a few times before, but this place still feels so eerie…) 

The East End, where the city’s poorest civilians lived, was perpetually gloomy-looking. 

Its narrow alleys were frequented by criminals, and once night fell, the neighbourhood became all the more dangerous. 

Just as I slowed my steps, unable to shake the gut feeling that we were being watched, Liam gently slipped an arm around my waist and gave me a small wink as though to reassure me that we'd be fine. 

(I was getting a little scared, but Liam being here makes that feeling disappear.)

Harrison suddenly spoke up, like he’d just thought of something, 

Harrison: Come to think of it, I heard a woman went missing around here recently.

Liam: You think it was some sort of criminal activity? 

Harrison: Who knows. Rumours are saying she was set to marry a man she didn’t love, so she ran off. 

Kate: Maybe she eloped? 

Liam: Huh? Oh, wasn’t there also a man who disappeared not long ago too? 

Kate: There was? In this area too? 

Liam: Yeah. I heard he was a young baker. 

As we continued walking, Harrison rubbed his chin. 

Harrison: If I recall correctly, both of them disappeared on a rainy day… 

Kate: Do you think that’s just a coincidence? Or…? 

Liam: It’s hard to say… but I never heard anything about a police investigation.

Harrison: Then it remains most likely that they eloped together. 

Apparently, the incidents weren't considered severe enough for even Crown to receive reports on them. 

(Maybe it’s only a private issue.) 

Not thinking much of it, I kept walking. 

Then Harrison flashed a mischievous grin. 

Harrison: Or maybe the culprit behind those isn't a person, but rather something we can’t see? 

Liam and I exchanged looks. 

Liam: Ahaha! Oh, come on. That’s just some silly story to scare children… right?

Kate: R-Right! Ghosts don’t exist… do they? 

But Harrison wasn’t laughing anymore. Instead, his face was completely serious as he stared directly at something behind us. 

Kate: Please say something, Harrison. 

Liam: By the way, what’ve you been staring at this whole time? There’s nobody behind us— 

Just then, there was a sound of a tree branch snapping coming from behind us, and a chill ran down my spine.

Like a stiff broken doll, I turned my head to Liam, and he did the same. 

We froze, not daring to even breathe…

— Then Harrison casually tossed the branch he’d been hiding behind his back onto the ground. 

Harrison: Nobody’s there. What were you two expecting, though? 

He snorted and walked off like nothing happened. 

Liam: HARRY～～～! 

Kate: HARRISON～～～! 

… All we do was shout his name in annoyance. 

…

[ POORHOUSE ] 

When we arrived at the poorhouse, we quietly snuck in through the back entrance and began our investigation. 

Harrison: Find anything?

Liam: No, nothing that would work as evidence… 

Our mission this time was to find proof of illegal labour being carried out at this poorhouse.

Her Majesty heard rumours that people who came here looking for work never returned, and hence Crown was sent to investigate… but so far, we hadn’t found anything to support those rumours. 

(Not a single person in sight too… could they be keeping the workers locked up somewhere?) 

While I was thinking of all the possibilities our past missions had taught me to expect, Liam’s figure shimmered into view out of thin air. 

Kate: Liam, you’re back. Did you find anything? 

Liam: Just like we thought, there’s no one at all. But I did find a door in the backyard that leads somewhere underground.

The three of us looked at one another and decided to make our way towards the backyard, careful not to make a sound. 

…

[ WEAPONS WORKSHOP ] 

Kate: T-This is…

We found a massive storage of weaponry.

Harrison: … I get it now. They made those people coming here to look for jobs manufacture weapons, then made a fortune off them. 

While Harrison examined the gun parts on the workbench, Liam looked through the documents on a nearby shelf. 

Liam: It looks like they were selling the weapons to criminals and bringing in enormous profits. 

I looked over Liam’s shoulder at the papers he was holding.  

Every page listed the names of suspicious organisations, alongside the names of people Crown had already punished on their previous missions. 

Harrison: Let’s bring this evidence back and make our report. 

Kate: Got it. But what happened to the people who were forced to work here? 

Liam • Harrison: …… 

Although we'd uncovered evidence of the illegal labour, we couldn’t end the mission here without finding the workers themselves. 

As I was packing the evidence into my bag, Liam and Harrison exchanged grim looks over my head. 

Liam: … Hey, Harry…

Harrison: … Yeah I’m thinking the same thing. 

Kate: ? 

The two immediately began moving shelves and tables aside in search of something. 

Kate: What are you looking for? 

A moment later, several large shovels were found hidden beneath the floorboards. 

Harrison: … Just as I thought. 

Liam: Our worst suspicion was right. 

They each grabbed a shovel and rushed back up the stairs towards the backyard. 

…

[ POORHOUSE – BACKYARD GARDEN ]

I went after them… they ran across the garden until they reached an unnatural looking pile of dirt and started digging. 

That was when I finally understood the terrible conclusion they came to. 

(No… it can’t be…) 

But it was exactly what we thought. 

Liam: This is…

Kate: …… 

Buried under the dirt were countless corpses, their emaciated bodies dressed in filthy clothes. 

Every one of their chests had a dark red patch on them, like they’d all been shot to death. 

Harrison: … The bullets are the same as the ones being manufactured underground. 

Digging through the dirt, Harrison picked up a bullet, his face twisting in disgust as he closed his palm around it. 

Liam: That means these people were killed to test the guns they were forced to make.

Harrison: And to silence them. They buried them here so no one could spread the truth of what’s happening in this poorhouse. 

Harrison: They're burying the truth. 

No matter how many times I’d witnessed tragedies and deaths caused by evil, I could never grow numb to it. 

I felt so furious and devastated… I clenched my fists so hard my knuckles were turning white. 

Liam noticed and gently wrapped an arm around my shoulders. 

Liam: Let’s give them a proper burial, and then we’ll go deal with the head of this poorhouse— 

Liam: ! 

A faint sound was heard coming from inside the building. 

Liam reflexively pulled my against him and drew his knife. 

Liam: … There might be someone else here. 

Harrison quietly raised his pistol and edged towards the building. 

Liam: Stay behind me, Kate. 

I nodded. We held our breaths and slowly snuck back inside. 

…

[ POORHOUSE – DRAWING ROOM ]

At the end of a hallway, Liam and Harrison noticed that a door which should’ve been shut was now slightly ajar. 

The two kicked it open and barged into the room.  

Standing in the drawing room under the pale moonlight was a burly man. 

Zane: …… 

An elderly man laid dead at his feet with his throat slit open. 

(It’s him…) 

[ Flashback ] 

Zane: … What’s a woman doing here? She’s in the way. 

[ Flashback End ] 

(I remember hearing him being described to be an exceptionally skilled assassin…) 

While I stood there staring at the horrifying scene in shock, Liam and Harrison raised their weapons and slowly approached Zane. 

Harrison: Why did you kill him?

Zane: … For work. Plenty of people wanted this bastard dead. 

Zane: They paid me to kill him, so I did. That’s all. 

Zane spoke without a trace of emotion in his voice and flicked the blood from his knife before turning his cold gaze towards us. 

Zane: I don’t care if he was your prey or what. 

His eyes were sharp like a predator sizing up its next meal. For some reason, they were fixed onto Liam.

Liam: …?

After staring at Liam for a while, Zane said nothing.

Instead, he turned and leapt out of the third storey window. 

Kate: !? 

I ran to the window and looked down, but he’d already vanished without a trace. 

Harrison: … That’s some crazy athleticism. 

The two lowered their weapons and examined the dead man. 

Liam: This is the head of the poorhouse. 

Kate: … So our mission’s target’s already received judgement? 

Liam: … Looks that way. Not exactly the ending I expected, though… 

Harrison: I feel like we just got ourselves a whole new headache…

Liam got back onto his feet and sheathed his knife. 

Kate: Our target’s been condemned by someone else… so what do we do now? 

Harrison: We were planning to condemn him ourselves anyway, so this doesn’t make much difference.

Harrison: But it does mean we can’t interrogate him anymore. 

Kate: Do you think the person who hired an assassin was one of the names in those documents…?

Harrison: Maybe. Or maybe not. 

Liam: We can’t exactly rule out the possibility of him having made enemies elsewhere…

Liam • Harrison: Hmm… 

The three of us fell into deep thought, and then Harrison heaved a huge sigh to change the mood.

Harrison: … The mission’s over for now. 

Later on, we watched the people arranged by Victor give the victims in the backyard a proper burial, then we returned to Crown’s castle before dawn. 

…

[ CROWN CASTLE – LIAM’S ROOM ] 

Kate: A lot happened today… 

Liam: Yeah… 

Liam flopped down onto the bed next to me, looking completely exhausted. 

Seeing him so relaxed now unlike how he’d been during the mission reminded me of something. 

Kate: Um… are you close with Zane by any chance? 

Liam: I know Victor’s approached him to join Crown before, but we don't really have any sort of relations between us. 

Liam: Apparently even if you tried talking to him, he’d ignore you most of the time. … Why do you ask? 

Kate: Back at the poorhouse, rightbefore Zane left, he kept staring at you… and it had me wondering if you two have some sort of connection. 

Liam: Honestly, I was wondering that too. 

Liam: Maybe there's something he wanted to say to me… 

Apparently, Liam didn’t understand why Zane was staring at him either. 

(Maybe it was pure coincidence…) 

Like a natural reflex, I wrapped my arms around Liam lying next to me, his expression softening into a warm happy smile. 

Liam: Let’s get some sleep. We have to be up again in a few hours for rehearsal. 

Kate: … Okay. You make sure to rest well too if you can fall asleep. 

He hugged me back, the sweet scent of vanilla gracing my nostrils. 

Embraced by his warmth, I drifted off to sleep feeling completely at ease. 

Liam: … Good night, Kate. 

…

[ LUCIEN’S OFFICE ] 

Without the slightest sound, Zane stepped into the colourless office. 

Lucien: … It appears the man you killed today was one of Crown’s targets. 

Zane: … So what? 

Lucien continued without sparing him even a glance. 

Lucien: I have no intention on restricting the jobs you choose to take. 

Lucien: But I will advise that you don't create unnecessary complications.

Zane: Tch… I know. You’re telling me not to cause trouble for the organisation. 

Looking clearly irritated, Zane jerked his chin towards the documents in Lucien’s hand. 

Zane: … Is that what you called me here for? 

The file with filled with information on one person — “Liam Evans”. 

Lucien: Keep a close eye on him, and determine if he’s dangerous. 

Zane: Why the hell do I have to? Get that piece of shit to do it. 

Lucien: I heard you met him today. 

Zane never told anyone about his encounter with Liam, and yet… Lucien knew everything. He clicked his tongue and snatched the file from Lucien with obvious reluctance. 

Zane: … And if I decide he’s dangerous? 

Lucien: Don’t wait for my orders. Eliminate him at once. 

On Lucien’s desk laid a flyer for Théâtre Météore, and a copy of “Hamlet”. 

Lucien: The stage’s already been set. 

Zane: … Hah. 

Zane let out a derisive laugh before leaving the office, realizing what Lucien meant. 

…

Zane: What a madman.

The stage has already been set. 

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< Liam’s POV >

【 THE SCALA 】 

Standing under the dazzling spotlight, I basked in the rounds of thunderous applause. 

The audience’s eyes burned with passion and excitement as they looked up at me like they were reaching for the brightest star in the sky. 

Liam: Thank you all for joining us tonight! 

In her seat on the second floor, my brightest star clapped with a smile so radiant, I could say it was brighter than all the lights in the theatre combined. 

(Ahh. This is bliss.) 

I’ll keep working harder and harder so I’ll never stop having moments like this. 

(Because if I don’t…—) 

I might end up back to square one. 

… 

< Switch to Kate’s POV >

【 CROWN CASTLE – KATE’S ROOM 】 

Blank ink filled the pristine white sheets of paper. 

(And then he—) 

I typed a few lines, paused for a moment, then continued in frustration. 

(This doesn’t quite get the message across. There must be a better way to word it…) 

I reread the first page, but it still didn’t feel right. 

Just as I turned back to the typewriter… 

The sweet smell of vanilla drifted into my room, followed by rose-coloured hair coming into view, making me jump in surprise. 

Kate: Liam!? How long have you been standing there…? 

Liam: I just got here. I knocked, but you looked so focused that I didn’t want to bother you by knocking again. 

(I didn’t notice at all…) 

My boyfriend who slipped silently into my room through the slightly ajar door like a cat looked down at the manuscripts spread across my desk and smiled.

Liam: How’s that coming along? 

Kate: Not very good… I know what I want to write, but I can’t seem to put my thoughts into words. 

Liam: I see. Writing a story must be tough work. 

Leaving Liam to admire the manuscripts, I pulled my hands away from the typewriter and reached for my bag. 

I was supposed to accompany him to a rehearsal at The Scala today… but then…— 

Kate: Oh no! We’re way past the time we’re supposed to head out…! 

All colour drained from my face the instant I looked at the clock, Liam’s expression changing just as quickly. 

Liam: Come on, Kate! If we don’t hurry, we’re going to be late! 

I took his hand and we rushed out of Crown’s castle together. 

…

As always, we spent another ordinary day together. 

Many seasons had passed since Liam and I became a couple. 

His performance as Quasimodo in “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” launched him into stardom overnight. 

He received praise not only from all across the country, but from overseas as well, and offers for new roles were coming in endlessly. 

Now, huge crowds of people flocked to the theatre just to watch Liam on stage. 

It was even said that due to the troupe’s popularity, tickets to a play at The Scala were the hardest in the country to purchase. 

The star that fell into my life unexpectedly was now an actor loved by many, shining as bright as a real star.

Liam rehearsed till late every night, carried out his duties as a member of Crown without fail, and never slacked off on his personal training even during his days off. 

Despite his busy days, he always made plenty of time for me, and we’d been living a perfectly happy life together as a couple. 

Liam’s schedule was impossibly busy, but nowadays, he went through each day looking more alive than the last. 

…

【 CARRIAGE 】 

In the carriage, Liam took a bite of the sandwich we’d brought along for a light snack, his eyes immediately lighting up.

Liam: This sandwich tastes amazing! Did you make it yourself? 

Kate: I did! I used Victor’s recipe for his special springy shrimp sandwich! 

His sense of taste was also gradually improving, and he was able to taste food as long as the seasoning was on the heavier side. 

(Making him heavily seasoned food every day is unhealthy, though…) 

Still, being able to taste food again was a major change for him. 

Liam: Thanks, now I have tons of energy for today’s rehearsal. 

Watching Liam take big bites of his second sandwich, I smiled to myself. 

I also remembered something else that’s changed. 

Kate: You came home rather late last night. Did you sleep well? 

Liam: Yep. I was watching you sleep… and before I knew it, it’s already morning. 

Liam: I don’t think I had any dreams last night. 

(Maybe he was just so tired that he passed out…) 

Liam’s had significantly fewer nightmares ever since we started sleeping together, because he’d been sleeping more soundly than he did in the past. 

Even on nights when I’d gone to bed alone, it’d become a norm to wake up to him sleeping next to me. 

(I think he felt guilty for sneaking into my room at first…)

But to me, waking up to my boyfriend’s face every morning was a part of my daily happiness. 

(His bedhead was super cute this morning.) 

He was still trying his best to meet every expectation placed on him, but what mattered most to him now was doing things because he wanted to and not because he felt obligated to. 

He no longer threw himself into dangerous situations, or got injured… his fits had stopped entirely too. 

Seeing Liam slowly move towards a happier, brighter future inspired me to begin chasing my dreams as well. 

Liam: I can’t wait to read your story. 

Kate: I’ll make sure you’re the first one who reads it once it’s completed. 

My wish to someday write stories that move people's hearts had always been alive inside me, and so I finally began writing one inspired by Liam. 

But no matter how many drafts I put out, none of them met my expectations. 

I’d write a few lines, strike them out, then start all over again. 

(I want Liam to be the first to read it… but at this rate, that’s not going to be happen anytime soon.) 

…

【 LONDON TOWN – PICADILLY FOUNTAIN AREA 】 

The carriage came to a stop, and I disembarked with Liam’s help. 

Young Lady in Gaudy Dress: LIAM’S HERE!!! 

Black-Haired Young Lady: KYAAAAAA!!! 

We were immediately surrounded by Liam’s fans the second we stepped out of the carriage. 

Liam: So, so sorry! Mind letting us through? 

He kept hold of my hand as he weaved through the crowd, trying to get us to The Scala. 

(They’re even more passionate than usual today…)

The crowd of squealing ladies kept coming— 

Liam: Kate! 

Liam noticed I was about to be swallowed by the crowd and like a reflex, yanked me towards him and wrapped me protectively in his arms. 

We managed to avoid being separated, but the ladies showed no signs of calming down anytime soon.

Just as we were running out of ideas to get away from the mess, Tom came rushing out of the theatre to rescue us. 

Tom: Liam! Kate! This way! 

…

【 THE SCALA – AUDIENCE SEATS 】 

Following Tom’s lead, we ran to the back entrance and made it inside the building, but I was so exhausted by then that I almost immediately sank into one of the seats. 

Bianca: They caused quite the ruckus again today. Are you two alright? 

Kate: Oh, Bianca… 

A beautiful, raven-haired woman stepped out from behind the stage wings — it was Bianca, The Scala’s leading actress. 

She shook her head with an exasperated sigh. 

Bianca: We’re grateful for their enthusiasm, but if they’re going to do this every single day, it’s becoming a big problem. 

Tom: We’ve tried telling them not to cause trouble, but clearly they're not getting the message. 

Liam: I’m sorry everyone has to deal with this because of me… 

Kate: It’s not your fault, Liam! Your performance as Romeo was simply too impressive…! 

Everyone in the troupe nodded wholeheartedly in agreement. 

Liam’s role as Romeo in “Romeo and Juliet” was certainly the reason things escalated this far. 

Women were absolutely in love for his portrayal of the handsome young hopeless romantic, and practically became completely captivated by Liam overnight. 

The performance attracted new audiences to The Scala, but also problems they’ve never had to deal with before. 

(His eyes that sparkle like stars, rose-coloured hair, the sweet scent of vanilla… he was already irresistible.) 

(But what truly won people’s hearts was the sincerity he treated every fan with.) 

Over the past few months, Liam would be surrounded by fans everywhere he went. 

Tom: It’s probably just temporary craze. I think things will calm down after a while. 

Tom: Just to be safe, I’ll have noticed put up asking people not to wait for the cast outside. 

Liam: … Thanks, Tom. 

Tom: Don’t worry about it! More importantly… I have some big news for everyone. 

Tom cleared his throat dramatically, and you could practically see the sparkles in his eyes. 

Tom: Théâtre Météore is coming to England.

Kate: WHAAT!? 

I shot to my feet in surprise. Everyone at The Scala’s eyes widened and they stared at Tom in shock for a moment before chattering about what they’d just heard. 

Bianca: The most famous theatre company in France!? I can’t believe they’re coming to England! 

The Scala Actor: I–Is it too late to get tickets!? 

The Scala Costume Designer: I wonder how much it’ll cost to see them… 

As I stood there too stunned to speak, Liam leaned in and whispered in my ear,

Liam: I don’t know much about them… but Théâtre Météore must be a really impressive company. 

Kate: They’re the oldest theatre company in France. I heard they were founded centuries ago… 

Liam: I’ve heard of their name before, but I had no idea they’ve been around for that long! 

Liam: I wonder what their performances are like… I’d love to see them on stage. 

Liam: … Do you think Victor could get us tickets if I asked?

Liam’s suggestion along with his cheeky grin brought a smile to my face. 

(That’s kind of unfair, but considering it’s Victor, he probably could.) 

And then, Tom cleared his throat again. 

Tom: This won’t be a performance by Théâtre Météore alone. They’re going to have a joint performance in collaboration with a British theatre company. 

Apparently, Théâtre Météore hoped to connect nations through the arts, and so they wanted to work together with a company from England. 

Tom: Ever since their founding, Théâtre Météore has stood firm by their one guiding principle, which is to “brighten the world through art”. 

Tom: And now, the real big announcement. 

The room fell silent. Everyone held their breaths as Tom’s face turned unusually serious. 

But the very next moment — he broke into a beaming smile. 

Tom: They’ve chosen The Scala as their collaborator!!

Liam: REALLY!? 

Bianca: Us!? We’re performing with THE Théâtre Météore!? 

Tom: That’s right! They even specifically requested for us! 

To spead the art’s influence as widely as possible, Théâtre Météore decided they wanted to work with a theatre company that was rising in popularity. 

That’s why they personally chose The Scala, the current most popular theatre company in England. 

Tom: And of course, I accepted their offer on the spot! 

The entire room erupted into excited cheers. 

(I can’t believe we’re going to see Théâtre Météore and The Scala performing together!) 

Then Tom revealed that they had reserved the largest theatre in Piccadilly for the production. 

The excitement in the room rose to a whole new high. 

Tom: The cast lineup will be decided through a joint audition that includes actors from Théâtre Météore as well. 

Tom: It’ll be quite the challenge… but are you all up for it? 

Liam answered without a moment’s hesitation, enthusiasm written all over his face.

Liam: Of course! I’ll do everything to get a role and stand on the same stage as Théâtre Météore.

Liam whispered to me,

Liam: If I get a role, I want you to watch from the best seat in the theatre. 

I smiled and nodded. If Liam was going to give this his all, then I’d do the same too. 

Tom: Alright! First things first, we have an opening show for “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” coming up next week, so let’s all get back to rehearsals! 

The Scala: Yeah!! 

…

【 UNKNOWN MEETING ROOM 】 

The soft click of chess pieces moving across the board echoed in the room. 

Lucien: …… 

In a one-man game, Lucien lifted a white chess piece and flicked away a black one. 

Lucien: There won’t be a need for a curtain call. 

The black chess piece spun on the tabletop before rolling off onto the floor, where it shattered into countless fragments. 

Lucien: Time to drop the curtains. 

…

If life were a fairytale, then beyond the happy ending would come the words,

“And they lived happily ever after.”

But everyone knows such things only exist in fiction. 

A forest that never should've been entered, a door that never should've never been opened, a secret that never should've been discovered… 

— A love that never should've existed. 

After we broke all those “shouldn’t haves” — an even deeper darkness laid in wait ahead of us. 

A fairytale tale doesn’t end until its “main character” dies. 

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Using a metal tool I found lying around in the room, I smashed the sealed window and jumped down. 

Then I broke the dining room’s window and climbed inside. 

[ ABBOTT FAMILY MANOR – DINING ROOM ]

Dan Abbott: How did you get in here!? 

The Abbott couple and Ronnie were in the dining room, and they stared at me in shock when I made an unexpected appearance. 

I didn't hesitate before grabbing a fruit knife from the table and stabbing it into the couple’s guts. 

Dan: Guwah…! 

Aria: Darling! — Ahh…! 

Ronnie: Father! Mother! 

Pulling the knife out, I turned and thrust it into Ronnie’s back. 

The life drained from the face of the boy who’d always acted all high and mighty towards me, as he collapsed onto the floor. 

Liam: London bridge is broken down, broken down, broken down…♪

Ronnie: To hell with you… DIE… urk…! 

I pushed the knife even deeper when he tried to fight back, then twisted it and pulled it out. 

His blood spurted onto my face. 

Liam: Does it hurt, Ronnie? 

Liam: But I’m hurting even more. For so, so long, I’m in so much pain!!! 

Ronnie slumped against the door and weakly glanced out into the hallway, then muttered with what strength remained in him, 

Ronnie: Mick… Amelia… run… 

[ ABBOTT FAMILY MANOR – HALLWAY ] 

I turned towards the hallway to see Mick and Amelia standing there looking pale. 

The moment I began approaching them with the knife in my hand, they turned on their heels and fled. 

Liam: AHAHA! You’d better run! You might die if you don't!! 

Mick: Eeek! Stay away! Stay away from me! 

Amidst his panic, Mick tripped over his own feet and fell. I took the chance to drive the knife into his back. 

Mick: Urgh… 

Mick stopped moving, the hallway’s floors dyed red with his blood. 

Amelia: No… 

When I turned my eyes onto Amelia, she froze in fear for a split second before snapping back to her senses and started running again. 

Liam: It’s always been you chasing me. Now that it's the other way around, this feels new and quite refreshing. 

Amelia: Somebody! Help me! There’s a murderer in here!! 

She screamed like her life depended on it, but no one heard her. 

She could only keep running until her stamina finally ran out, then bolted into her bedroom. 

[ ABBOTT FAMILY MANOR – AMELIA’S ROOM ] 

Amelia: AHHH!! 

But I managed to slip inside before she could lock the door. 

With nowhere left to run, she fell onto the floor. 

Amelia: I– I was always good to you, wasn’t I!? 

Liam: Right, you were very good to me. 

Amelia: Then— 

Liam: So let me return the favour!!! 

I held the knife in a reverse grip and swung it down, aiming to slice her abdomen open in the cruelest way possible. 

But she twisted her body away at the very last second, and the knife slashed across her face instead. 

Amelia: No! Nooo…!!! 

The cut ran in a straight line from her forehead to her cheek. Amelia clutched her bleeding face and let out a piercing scream. 

Liam: AHHA! AHAHA!! 

I couldn’t contain my laughter. 

(Ahh. So this is what it feels like.) 

No matter how I begged for help, screamed, and pleaded for mercy… they continued to abuse me. 

Watching her terrified and screaming in front of me, I finally understood — how utterly pathetic, hopeless, and miserable I must've looked to them. 

(Ridiculous.) 

Continuing to laugh, I raised the knife again, but tears started spilling down my face for some reason. 

(Why am I crying?) 

I stood frozen in place, struggling to make sense of anything, and then a man burst into the room. 

Officer with Mint Eyes: Police! Put your hands where I can see them!!!  

The knife immediately fell from my hand when I made eye contact with the police officer. 

Liam: Ahaha… 

A single tear fell along with it. 

…

I was interrogated at the police station, and I told them every last detail about everything that’s happened. 

Fortunately, no one in the Abbott family died. 

Combined with the undeniable signs of prolonged abuse covering my body, the police concluded there was enough evidence of extenuating circumstances that led to my actions. 

Instead of prison, I was admitted into a psychiatric institution.

…

[ POLICE STATION – HOLDING CELL ] 

Officer with Mint Eyes: I have a son who’s about your age. If you ever leave the hospital, I’d like you to meet him someday.

The officer wore a kind smile, but I shook my head in response. 

Liam: … I’m broken. I’ll never leave the hospital. 

Liam: A normal life is not something a person like me can hope for. 

Because I’d made another “mistake”. 

I hurt others, I’ve killed people — those were indelible sins. 

(… I don’t deserve to wish for anything.) 

The officer’s face contained an unbearable sadness. He placed a hand on my shoulder and looked me in the eyes, 

Officer with Mint Eyes: You’re still a child. Your future is full of happiness waiting for you to find them. 

Officer with Mint Eyes: No matter how painful it gets, however much you suffer… as long as you don't give up hope, someday—

Officer with Mint Eyes: You’ll come to know what real love is.

Liam: Real… love… 

I wanted to ask what he meant by that, but I was taken away before I could. 

Even so, that small fragment of hope he gave me in a moment of despair saved me from wanting to die.

I continued to live… like I was under a curse. 

…

[ PSYCHIATRIC INSTITUTION ] 

Blank white walls, uncomfortable examination gowns, painful examinations I couldn’t understand the purpose of.

— I didn’t know when I’d be allowed to leave. 

… Or if I wanted to. 

But then, a certain man appeared before me. 

Victor: You look like a bird with your arms spread wide under the blue sky. But unfortunately, humans don’t have wings. 

I took the hand he offered me. Only because it was there. 

But deep down in my heart… maybe part of me wanted to believe I still had a future. 

Victor: Come — give into the darkness of your wicked heart. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Liam Evans. 

And after I took that hand, I found myself standing in the spotlight—. 

…

[ MANSION IN ACT 1 PROLOGUE ]

Liam: An acquaintance of Will’s? Does she know about us too? 

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Becoming Amelia’s doll meant no longer being treated or even seen as a human. 

…

[ Amelia’s Room ] 

Amelia: Stand over there. Lift your shirt. 

I did I was told and held my shirt up. 

The moment she saw my abdomen mottled with bruises and scars, she smiled and raised the whip in her hand. 

Liam: guwah…! 

The whip crackled in the air, and a searing pain tore across my abdomen. 

The skin where the whip struck immediately turned formed red and swollen welts, but she showed no intention to stop. 

Amelia: How dare you act arrogant when you’re nothing but a leech living off my family's charity! 

Admiring the welts her whip left behind on me, she took out a small knife from the box and held it over the fireplace.

Once the metal changed colour from being heated, Amelia pressed the glowing hot knife against my arm with a delightful grin. 

Liam: AHHHHHH!!! 

The pain was enough to make my legs buckle, and I collapsed onto the floor. 

I desperately clutched the burn, gritting my teeth through the pain, then without warning… a bucket of water was dumped over my head.

Amelia: I never said you could sit.

Next thing I knew, the bucket itself was smashed into my head, the blow knocking me over. 

Amelia only shrieked in annoyance. 

Amelia: Why can’t you EVER do as I say!? 

Liam: I-I’m sorry, I’ll do it right now— 

Amelia: Who said you could drop the formalities with me? Or what? Are you asking for another beating? 

Amelia: You are truly a good-for-nothing, tactless, and your back DISGUSTS me… the only thing remotely good about you is that fade of yours. 

Liam: !! 

Ever since I became Amelia’s doll, not a single day went by without abuse. 

Amelia had always been a violent child. 

Apparently, since she was little, she’d taken pleasure in relentlessly attacking anyone outside her own family, enjoying the feeling of superiority it gave her.

Every one of her previous “friends” — the pets she begged her parents to get her — died in her hands. 

She even found joy in breaking people mentally, leaving her parents at a loss for what to do with her. 

That was most likely why my existence was perfect for her. 

If I disobeyed, she’d beat me, whip me, or subject me to whatever violence she liked. 

I was never given a proper meal, and no matter how much she humiliated me, I couldn't protest. 

Whatever they did to me, they never had to face anyone's anger, because I was a “doll” that existed solely to obey its owner. 

Amelia: You know what to do, right? 

She brought over my “meal” — a plate piled with vegetable scraps and mouldy bread. 

Then she dumped it along the hallway’s floor and drove her foot into my back. 

Amelia: I’ll forgive you if you eat it off the floor without using your hands. 

Liam: …… 

Getting on my hands and knees, I obediently lowered my head and took the filthy food scraps into my mouth right off the floor. 

The fact I couldn’t even taste them made it all the more humiliating.

Ronnie: Woah! This freak’s eating leftovers off the floor! That’s disgusting! 

Liam: …… ggh. 

Ronnie happened to witness it while walking by, and looked at me with undisguised revulsion. 

Standing behind him was Mick, who wore a bored look and turned to leave. 

Amelia: Looks like Liam’s so hungry he can’t take it anymore. Doesn’t he look just like a dog? 

She grabbed my hair and yanked my head up for everyone to see my face. 

Amelia: Go on and pet him, Big Brother. This dog’s very well-trained.

Mick: No. He’s filthy. I can’t fathom why a person would actually eat food off the floor just because they were told to. 

Amelia: He’s not a person, he’s a dog. Right, Liam? 

Liam: … Yes. 

(If I disobey her, things will only get worse…) 

I sat back like a trained dog and placed my hand in Amelia’s palm. 

Ronnie: HAHAHA! He’s seriously posing like a dog! Gross! 

Liam: !  

Once he was done laughing, Ronnie grabbed me by the head and slammed by face against the floor. 

Ronnie: Just looking at you makes me sick. Don’t ever leave your room again. 

Although Ronnie wasn’t as cruel as Amelia, he still beat me. 

The only one who never physically hurt me was Mick… but instead, he treated me like I didn’t exist. 

No matter how horrific the scenes of abuse happening in front of him were, he never so much as spared it a glance. 

Liam: Oww… let go! Let go of me…! 

Ronnie dragged me by my hair and threw me into my room.

[ RUNDOWN ROOM ] 

Ronnie: I’ve had it with you.

Ronnia: Do you have any idea how many times we’ve been woken up in the middle of the night because of you wandering around the manor and throwing yourself off high places? 

Liam: I… 

Ever since I came to this household, it always rained in my heart. 

The fits came increasingly often with each passing day, and I couldn’t control myself no matter how hard I tried, so I kept doing dangerous things. 

The Abbott family had grown sick of dealing with me, and as a result, their mistreatment of me worsened to a point words were no longer enough to describe how inhumane they were. 

Ronnie: We don’t need someone who doesn’t obey. Amelia, if you’re going to keep this eyesore around, you’d better train him properly. 

Ronnie tossed the key to Amelia and walked off. 

Amelia: Now I’ve gotten a scolding. This is your fault, Liam. 

She puffed her cheeks out in annoyance and heaved a reluctant sigh before reaching for the door. 

Amelia: You’re staying locked in here until my brother says otherwise. 

The blood drained from my face the second I heard the word “locked”, and I desperately shook my head. 

Liam: I’ll apologise! I’ll do anything! Just please don’t punish me! 

But Amelia only flashed her usual sweet smile and said the same thing she always did, 

Amelia: Punish you? Don’t be silly. Everything I do is because I love you, Liam. 

…

Days passed, and the door to my room never opened. 

Liam: I’m a bad boy, that’s why everyone punishes me. 

Hunger and fear filled my nights with nightmares to the point I could barely sleep. 

Liam: But — they need me. They love me. 

I kept looking away, trying to escape reality. 

Liam: Because that’s what Father used to say. 

The man who left permanent scars on my back had spoken the very same word Amelia did — “love”. 

Liam: It’s okay. I’m still okay… right, Liam? 

Then, one time, I dreamt about a moment when I was truly happy. 

[ THEATRE ]

I was a child again, going to the theatre to watch a play with Jacob.

That was my escape from my reality of living a life full of suffering. 

It only lasted a mere few hours, but it was the only time I was allowed to dream. 

Liam: I want to stand on stage too someday. 

What kind of expression was Jacob wearing back then? 

I could no longer remember, but I did remember how gently he held me…

[ RUNDOWN ROOM ] 

Liam: Jacob…! 

When I opened my eyes, the theatre was gone.

Only the cruel reality remained. 

Liam: … No. Jacob’s no more. 

It began raining in my heart again. 

Liam: I… I killed him. 

Something inside me shattered. 

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I committed a sin that will never be erased. 

…

【 DINING ROOM 】 

Liam: … Thank you for taking care of me till today. 

Distant Relative: Get out already. And don’t you dare show your fade here again. 

Several years had passed since my parents and Jacob died in the fire. 

Ever since I set the mansion on fire that day, it never stopped raining in my heart. 

Whenever I listened to the endless sound of rain, I’d hear a somewhat familiar voice coming from somewhere and do as it told me to. 

By the time I came back to my senses, I’d already made another terrible “mistake”. 

Throwing myself off dangerous heights, smashing things, almost hurting people.

I couldn’t stop those fits-like impulses whenever they acted up.

As a result, my relatives constantly gave up on me and I was moving from household to household. 

Today, I was thrown out… again. 

…

【 CARRIAGE 】 

I don’t want to lose myself again.

I don’t want to hurt people. 

I don’t want to make such “mistakes” again. 

(If I fail this time too, I don’t have anyone else who will take me in.)

Liam: Smile when you greet them later, Liam. 

The other me reflected in the carriage’s window nodded, wearing an expression that said “I know”. 

…

The carriage came to a stop outside a manor located in the outskirts of London. 

Waiting to welcome me were a middle-aged man and woman… and three children. 

(It’s okay. I’m okay.) 

I took a deep breath and walked towards them. 

Their faces lit up with warm smiles the moment they saw me. 

Dan Abbott: Liam! You’re here! We’ve been waiting for you. 

Dan, a distant paternal relative, opened his arms wide and pulled me into a hug. 

Liam: ! I-It’s a pleasure to meet you…! My name is Liam Evans, and I’ll be in your care from today onwards.

Liam: I’ll do anything to be useful, so please take good care of me! 

I bowed deeply to him, and his wife, Aria, gently stroked my back.

Aria: Dan told me everything you've been through. You must've had such a hard life. 

Dan: I’d love for you to think of his place as your own home. 

Liam: T-Thank you very much… 

Their warm welcome nearly brought tears to my eyes, but I swallowed them back and straightened my posture. 

Dan: This is our oldest so,  Ronnie, and our second son, Mick. They’ve been looking forward to meeting you.

Dan: But the one who’s been the most excited is Amelia, our daughter who’s your age. 

Dressed in a bright yellow dress, Amelia stepped forward and held out her hand. 

Amelia: I've always wanted a friend my age! 

Amelia: Nice to meet you, Liam. 

Liam: ! Yeah, nice to meet you too…! 

I shook her outstretched hand. 

(Maybe I can make things work here.) 

I finally arrived at the Abbott family home after being passed from one relative’s household to another. 

Holding onto a small fragile hope that I wouldn't have to go through it again, I stepped through the gates of the manor. 

… And that hope shattered only a few days later. 

…

【 ABBOTT FAMILY MANOR – RANDOM ROOM 】 

Dan: Why isn’t there a single penny left of the Evans’ family inheritance!? 

Liam: !

He grabbed me by the arm and slammed me against a wall, and I crumpled to the floor.

Liam: I– I don’t know! I don’t know anything…! 

Dan: SHUT UP!!! 

*Slap!*

Liam: !!! 

His punched me across the face, sending me sprawling onto the floor again. 

While raking a hand through his hair in frustration, Dan turned and yelled at Aria. 

Dan: We only took him in for the money, and now he’s nothing but a worthless freeloader! 

Clutching my throbbing cheek, I forced myself upright.

Above me, the couple’s voices grew louder as their argument became increasingly heated. 

…

【 ABBOTT FAMILY MANOR – HALLWAY 】 

The Abbotts were originally merchants in the countryside, and then their business began to prosper and they bought themselves this manor. 

But it wasn’t long before things took a turn for the worse. 

They’d planned to rely on the inheritance I supposedly received from my birth family… only to discover that my other relatives who took me in before them had already squandered every last penny of it.

…

【 ABBOTT FAMILY MANOR – RANDOM ROOM 】 

Every time I was taken in by another relative, I witnessed the ugly greed of the adults around me. 

But even though they looked at me with disgust… I was in no position to be picky. 

(There are only so many people who are willing to take in someone who killed his own family.) 

(If they throw me out of here too… I have nowhere else to go.) 

Dan looked down at me condescendingly, his face twisting with irritation. 

Dan: The kid’s got a good-looking face. We could get a good price selling him to some aristocrat who’s into children. 

Liam: ! 

Aria: Oh, how about that baron we spoke with the other day? I’m quite sure he has a hobby of keeping young boys around him for personal entertainment.

Realising their plan to sell me off, I desperately clung to the two of them. 

Liam: I’ll do anything! I promise I’ll be useful! Please… please let me stay…! 

The couple completely ignored my begging and turned to leave the room, but then… 

Amelia: You said you’d do anything? 

Liam: Huh…? 

Amelia suddenly came in and stopped in front of me, then turned to her parents and pleaded innocently. 

Amelia: Father, mother… I’ve been wanting a new “friend”. 

Amelia: A really lively “friend”. 

The colour drained from both their faces, and they exchanged uneasy glances, as though they were afraid of something. 

Amelia: I’ll take care of him myself. Pleaaaasee…? 

I could tell something changed about the air in the room, but I couldn’t figure what was off. 

Dan let out a reluctant sigh. 

Dan: … Fine. But I’m selling him immediately if he hurts you. 

Amelia: Fufu, okay～ 

(Am I… saved…?) 

Still in a daze, I watched as the couple left without so much as taking another glance at me. 

Amelia turned back to me wearing a joyful smile, but hidden behind that smile… was an unmistakable madness. 

Amelia: From today on, you’re my doll. All. Mine. 

That marked the beginning of my living hell. 

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Chapter 1

No prompt for choices.

→ Intimacy Checkpoint ✓

Chapter 2

"この人が……" +5

誰からの依頼でしょうか +8

……標的は断罪された？ +10

Chapter 3

誰かに見られたら…… +8

城に戻ってからにしよう +5

大丈夫ですか？ +10

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Chapter 4

リアムのお迎えに +10

寂しくなっちゃって…… +8

自分を探しに？+?

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Chapter 5

目に星を飼い始めた +8

リアムの瞳も星みたい +10

……本当に綺麗ですね +5

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⤷ Required Sinful Love Points: 37

Chapter 6

この荷物だけ毛色が違う +5

これは拷問用の道具？ +8

女性が使うんでしょうか +10

Chapter 7

リアムは被害者 +8

人を傷つけた代償 +5

同じじゃない +10

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Chapter 8

座長に抗議します +5

私には必要です +10

頑張り過ぎてる +8

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Chapter 9

じゃあどうすれば…… +8

何もせずにいろと？ +5

もっと寄り添っていれば +10

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Chapter 10

最低です +10

狂ってる +5

あなたのせいで…… +8

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⤷ Required Sinful Love Points: 79

Chapter 11

遅いです +5

逢いたかった +10

もう逢えないかと思った +8

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Chapter 12

あなたの演技が見たい +10

スカラ座も素敵 +5

楽しみにしてますね +8

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⤷ Required Sinful Love Points: 90

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Special Story

Cost: 1200 Diamonds