Chapter 9.2

Nia, who came after three days, shyly handed me a necklace. I tilted my head and, on a whim, took the necklace.

“What is this?”

“It’s the artifact I explained a few days ago… It reacts when a demon approaches the disciple…”

“Oh, you’ve already finished it?”

“I didn’t do it alone… I made it with Kieryk. Of course, it’s not because my devotion to you… is lacking. I wanted to make it for you as soon as possible. Please, understand my feelings!”

“What? No, yes. Of course, I understand. I know you cherish and care for me. Absolutely.”

“You are… so kind, disciple.”

Nia’s face was flushed as she smiled and told me how to use the necklace. The principle was simple: just put mana or a substance into the mana stone. Nia had already filled it with a demon’s mana from the academy, so it was already working.

I tried to put it on myself, but the clasp was small, and I fumbled. ‘I’ll have to ask Siliya to put it on for me later.’

I thanked Nia and put the necklace away, but she just stared at me. Today wasn’t a day for classes… What was it? Did she have something to say? ‘She’s not going to ask me to study, is she? No, please, no! The after-effects of that last 8-hour class haven’t even worn off yet!’

“Um, Master? What’s wrong?”

“I’ll tell Jeras, but I think you should… know about it too?”

‘It’s not about classes, then.’ My shoulders, which I had hunched in fear, relaxed. What could it be that she was approaching so cautiously?

As I waited patiently, Nia spoke slowly.

“Kieryk is… a little strange. Although it’s not confirmed yet.”

“…The prince is strange?”

‘Did Nia find out?’ How? I asked, pretending not to know anything, and her voice became a little tense.

“There was something bothering me personally, so I asked him a few things. And… he said he has partial memory loss from the day of your birthday party.”

“Is the prince alright?”

As soon as the words left my mouth, I knew it was a stupid question. He couldn’t possibly be okay if he had no memory of that night. Besides, memory loss was one of the many symptoms of possession. It starts in parts, then the periods of memory loss get longer, and eventually, the person loses their sense of self and is fully possessed.

‘So, it’s finally started…’

“As I said, it’s not certain yet. Sometimes, memory loss can happen when a large amount of mana is consumed in a short time. I will look into it and take care of it. You don’t have to worry, disciple. It’s not your fault.”

She must have noticed my somber expression. Nia quickly rattled off the words, grabbing and then letting go of my hand. I nodded and smiled at Nia, but my mind was in turmoil. It wasn’t the time to hide in the temple just for my own safety. I had to find a way to delay the possession. And I had to stop Empress Florese. If Kieryk was fully possessed like this, everyone would be dragged into it.

Nia checked that the necklace was working properly once more, gave me a few books on light magic to read when I was bored, and left. I waited until Nia was gone and immediately went to find Siliya. She was in the newly arranged living room, which we got after I and Sion joined, reading a book.

“What’s wrong, Eloe? Did Nia already leave?”

“She just came to drop something off. Anyway, Unnie, we have a big problem.”

I sat across from Siliya and told her about Kieryk. After hearing the short story, Siliya became as serious as I was.

“I had a feeling something was wrong. I could feel a strange energy even before the birthday party.”

“A strange energy?”

“Yes. Like a shadow creeping up from the ground… Didn’t you feel it, Unnie?”

“No. I didn’t feel anything strange. That’s why I thought everything was still fine.”

“I see… I thought you would have known since you can use divine power.”

Siliya fell silent, lost in thought for a moment. But I felt a little relieved to be sharing my thoughts with Siliya like this. In front of Siliya, I didn’t have to hide the fact that I was a transmigrator or that I knew about the future and other unknown facts. If I had to talk about this with Jeras, I would have fumbled and not known what to do. Or maybe I would have just blurted it out, not caring about the consequences.

“Anyway, right now, we have no way of knowing how far the possession has progressed.”

“That’s true. I might be able to find out if I meet him in person. Should I ask Jeras to secretly arrange a meeting?”

“Hmm, no. That sounds too dangerous. While we’re on the subject, let me share my thoughts… The kidnapping incident is likely Kieryk’s doing.”

There was no one else in the room, but Siliya lowered her voice. I leaned in to listen, feeling tense.

“The mansion wasn’t structured for external intrusion, was it? So it had to be an inside job, and the most suspicious person is Kieryk. His memory was even cut off.”

“Yes. He told my teacher that he admitted he had no memory. But why would he kidnap me?”

“Maybe… because you are the biggest obstacle?”

“So it’s because of my light magic?”

“Yes. Because you’re the only one who can use light magic, which is effective against demons.”

I also suspected Kieryk, but there was one strange thing. It was the light magic. What did it mean that Siliya, also a transmigrator, couldn’t use it, but I could? This light magic wasn’t even an important part of the original story. So why did it suddenly appear and drag me into the center of this whirlpool?

“Anyway, it’s best not to meet with Kieryk.”

“What if we borrow Jeras’s invisibility cloak? Then we won’t get caught.”

“He would never lend it to us. He wouldn’t let us go.”

“How can you be so sure? It might work.”

I pouted. No matter how much I thought about it, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was being overprotected by everyone around me. Of course, it was right after a terrible incident, but it was understandable that my frustration was piling up from being confined to the temple and not being able to do anything. Even voluntary confinement is stressful.

“No one sends the person they like into a dangerous situation.”

“The person they like? Who likes who?”

“Jeras and you. Aren’t you two into each other?”

“What… what?!”

My face reacted before my mind did. The moment I understood what Siliya said, my face burned.

‘Oh my God, I don’t know!’ She must have figured everything out. I grabbed a pillow and hid my face. It was a soft cushion, so I buried my face completely. My ears felt hot from Siliya’s small voice.

“Eloe, you like Jeras, don’t you?”

“I… I don’t know if I’d say I like him… I’m not sure.”

“Really? You look so happy when you’re together.”

“Is that… so?”

Talking to Jeras is fun. He’s not bad with words, and he doesn’t mind when I speak informally or act a little rude. When he’s teasing me or being sarcastic, I get annoyed, but it’s a short-lived argument. I forget why I was even mad as soon as I turn my back on him.

Looking back, he has never pranked me excessively. He’s helped me more than anything.

Suddenly, I remembered that night when it was just the two of us. 

‘Eloe.’ 

Just thinking about his serious voice, which I heard for the first time, made a corner of my chest tingle.

‘I must be crazy.’ How did it end up like this? They say the most dangerous love is the one that starts from hate.

“Did I push you too hard? It takes courage to be honest with your feelings.”

Siliya’s voice was gentle as she soothed me. It sounded like she wouldn’t pry if I wasn’t willing to talk.

I peeked out from behind the pillow and looked at Siliya. She was looking out the window. Her calm profile seemed to say that she would listen and understand whatever I had to say. No, that was just my wishful thinking projected onto her.

I had already noticed that Jeras had feelings for me. He seemed to live life carelessly, but in reality, he was more cold and calculating than anyone else. He was also an ambitious person who was determined to become emperor. So it was natural to suspect that there was a reason he would go out of his way to find me on his inefficient route and grant my requests.

The kidnapping incident was what solidified my suspicions. That’s when my heart also tipped completely in his favor. But the reason I couldn’t fully admit and accept it was the guilt-like feeling that still lingered like a residue. I clutched the pillow tightly.

“Actually, there’s something that’s been bothering me.”

“Something bothering you?”

“I wasn’t originally from this world, you know. Jeras doesn’t know that… Who would even think something like that? For a while, I wasn’t sure if this was a dream or reality.”

“It’s like something out of a novel, isn’t it? Though I guess it’s not something we should say, being in a novel.”

Siliya made a light joke, and when our eyes met, she gave me a gentle smile. I felt comforted and encouraged by that smile, which seemed to say, ‘It’s okay, I understand how you feel.’ I was sorting out what to say in my head, when Siliya cut in first.

“But is that really all?”

My eyes, wide with surprise, blinked. Was it just my imagination that Siliya’s face, which had been so warm, had turned a little mischievous? I tilted my head, and Siliya closed her book and placed it on her lap. Siliya’s gaze was strangely sharp and firm, as if telling me not to even think about lying.

‘Why… why is she looking at me like that? What is she going to ask…? This is the first time her smiling face has felt scary.’

“If it’s because of me, you don’t need to worry.”

“No, no! It’s not that! No!”

I instinctively shook my hands in denial. Maybe it was because I was so fast and vehement, but it only made me look more suspicious. Siliya seemed to think the same, and she moved closer, staring at me intently.

“Really? Are you really sure? Really?”

“…If I’m honest, you won’t get mad, right?”

“Of course. There’s no reason for me to be mad.”

“To be honest… you were on my mind. I thought you liked Jeras, and I felt like I was getting in the way…”

“Hmm, why would you think I like Jeras? We’ve never been alone together.”

Siliya tilted her head. 

‘That’s because… you’re the female lead, and Jeras is the male lead, right? And I’m an extra who’s supposed to exit the stage early.’ I wanted to say that so badly, but I couldn’t.

This story had changed too much from the original. Our situation was no longer the original story, but a newly twisted one. Siliya glanced at my face and cleared her throat. She must have thought I was upset because I was just sitting there silently. She took my hand as if to reassure me.

“Eloe, I have no interest in Jeras. I came here to ask for his help because I really wanted to live.”

“Yes, I know. I know how you feel about coming here and what your situation was. I’m not suspecting you… what should I say? I’m just insecure on my own. It’s silly, I know.”

“That’s what happens when you fall for someone. You go between heaven and hell with just one word, and you cry for no reason.”

“Wow, that’s horrible. Don’t say that, Unnie. I don’t want to cry because of that guy. Ever.”

I was so embarrassed just imagining it. If I ever cried in real life, and if Jeras saw it, I’d rather bite my tongue and die. Siliya burst into laughter when I shivered.

“Feeling a little relieved now, are you?”

“Yeah… I’m so embarrassed I want to jump out the window right now.”

“You must like Jeras a lot. Can I ask when it started?”

“I don’t know either. I only admitted I liked him a little while ago. At, the birthday party.”

“Ah, that day. I guess you wouldn’t know, Eloe.”

“Know what?”

“How desperate Jeras was to find you.”

‘Ugh.’ I was off guard and she hit a nerve. I hid my reddening face in the pillow again. Siliya quietly began to tell me about that day.

“The moment he found out you were gone, he jumped out the window. Without a moment’s hesitation. It was the same when he was chasing the demon. He didn’t even try to block the attacks.”

“…He didn’t?”

“Yeah. He kept moving even after inhaling the poison fog. It was incredible. It was purely his willpower.”

‘He inhaled poison fog, too.’ I didn’t know that. I hadn’t thought to ask, and Jeras had never mentioned it either. It wasn’t a pleasant memory for either of us. I remembered how my vision went black when he took Luxie’s attack for me, wondering what would happen.

“I hope things work out for you two. You’re a good match.”

“I don’t know yet. Maybe it’s just me… and maybe Jeras is just doing it for fun.”

“Is that so? I don’t think so. Wanna bet?”

“Why would we bet on something like this! No!”

Siliya laughed out loud, as if she found my reaction amusing. Just as I was pouting, I also burst into laughter, and at that moment, the door opened silently. Sitting across from the door, I immediately recognized the person standing in the doorway. It was Sion.

“Brother!”

Sion, who smiled at me so gently, suddenly stiffened. I followed his gaze and saw that it landed on Siliya.

As Siliya, who was sitting on the sofa, tried to get up, Sion waved his hands.

“No. It’s fine. Please stay seated. I must have interrupted.”

His voice was unnecessarily tense, and his nervousness was palpable. Siliya bowed her head to greet him. Sion bowed in return, but for some reason, he couldn’t look directly at Siliya.

‘Oh, look at this. Their reactions are strange. Should I try to provoke them?’

“We were just chatting. Brother, sit here. Join us.”

“No, Eloe. I’m… fine. No, I have something to do. I don’t mean that I don’t want to.”

Sion stammered. I had never seen him so flustered. He furtively rolled his eyes towards Siliya. Unlike Sion, who couldn’t lift his head, Siliya was looking at him with a calm expression.

“Would you like some tea, Sir?”

“No, no. I’m really fine. I don’t want to intrude. Please don’t mind me.”

“You’re not intruding. The more, the merrier. Come on, sit down. I’ll get the tea.”

“El, Eloe. Wait…”

I forced Sion into the seat I had been in and hurried to the kitchen. When I looked back, Sion had moved his chair far away and settled in. It was impressive to see his face stiffen in surprise when Siliya said something to him.

‘He’s broken, he’s broken.’ I boiled the water for the tea and racked my brain.

‘I need to create a situation where it’s just the two of them soon.’

 

***

 

“Princess, you’ve got something on your face. You’re not a child, what are you doing getting things on your face.”

“Huh? Where?”

“Let me brush it off. Come here.”

I turned to Jeras, holding the temple’s door handle. Jeras looked down at me and reached out a hand to rub my cheek. It was a simple motion, but my heart fluttered, and I flinched back.

“Is that… good?”

“It’s stuck tight, it won’t come off.”

“What is it? Where is it? Here?”

I frantically rubbed the cheek Jeras had just touched. Nothing came off on my hand. ‘What is it? I need to go inside and look in the mirror.’ I rubbed my cheek with the back of my hand once more, and Jeras chuckled.

“Idiot. You fell for that.”

“You…!”

“Don’t get mad and come in. What if someone sees the princess with ‘idiot’ written all over her face?”

Jeras pulled me in after flinging the door open. I stumbled and ended up half-leaning on him.

‘Idiot, seriously. What does he take me for?’ But since the walk was so nice, I’ll let it slide just this once.

We opened the inner temple door and stepped inside. But something felt off. What was this feeling?

“Why is it so quiet today?”

“Huh? Me?”

“Close, but wrong. I’m talking about the princess’s brother. It’s past the time he would normally be making a fuss for you to come inside.”

‘Oh, right.’ It was strange that Sion wasn’t around today. When I went for a walk with Jeras, he’d usually hide behind a tree or a building to watch us after about 30 minutes, and then come to get me after an hour. A good amount of time had passed, but there was no sign of him.

“Maybe he went home? Did our parents call for him…?”

“Shhh. Princess, over here.”

Jeras put a finger to his lips and motioned for me to follow. I tiptoed over and stealthily stood next to him. And then I witnessed a sight I couldn’t believe. Sion and Siliya were sitting alone in the living room, very close to each other. There was a small pile of light brown crumbs on the table between them.

I leaned forward to get a better look, but Jeras grabbed my arm.

“What if we get caught? Your brother will try to kill us.”

“I can’t see properly. Can you see well? What are they doing? Look!”

I whispered in a hushed voice and nudged Jeras’s back. Jeras made a grim expression, furrowed his brow, and glared at the two. A moment later, I felt Jeras’s breath on my ear. A strange tickling sensation spread across my skin, and I flinched.

“Sion is carving wood. Lady Rioest is just watching.”

“Wood?”

“Yeah. He does that when he’s bored and has nothing to do. Is this the first time you’ve seen it?”

‘It is.’ I had always thought Sion’s hobbies were studying and practicing sword fighting, but it seemed those were just for show and he had a real hobby. It made sense that Sion, being a human, would have a hobby. Now I understood what the crumbs on the table were. They were wood chips, shavings, and sawdust from Sion’s carving. Wood carving suited the calm and stoic Sion well.

Sion spoke to Siliya in a low, gentle voice. Siliya nodded and looked at the piece of wood in Sion’s hands. We were spying on them from a distance to avoid getting caught, and their voices were so low that I couldn’t hear what they were saying. I poked Jeras with my elbow.

“Do you have it?”

“What?”

“The invisibility cloak.”

“Not on me right now.”

‘Useless.’ I glared at Jeras and wondered if there was a way to get closer. Just then, Jeras whispered in my ear again.

“You’re sneaky, Princess. I didn’t know you had a hobby for eavesdropping.”

“I’m not… you’re a aaaa!”

Jeras, with a mischievous smile, hugged me from behind, so I couldn’t properly retort. His warm body heat and a slightly warmer, strange energy enveloped me. It was Jeras’s mana, which was most prominently fire-attributed.

We were instantly surrounded by a translucent, shadow-like mana barrier. It felt like the mana in the air had been blocked. It was a sensation similar to wearing an invisibility cloak.

“I can use a spell that gives a similar effect. Do you like it?”

“Whether I like it or not, do we have to… be like this? You’re too close…”

“I can’t help it. This magic is usually just for me. But you don’t have to worry about being seen.”

“Ugh… I swear, if you do anything weird, you’ll regret it.”

“What do you mean ‘weird’? I’m pure and innocent, I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

‘I can see it, I can see it. His face smiling wickedly behind me. Pure my foot.’ I was worried God might be angry at his words.

I ignored his words, knowing that if I got into a fight with him, it would never end, and pulled on his sleeve.

“Let’s move forward a little. I want to hear what they’re saying.”

“As the princess wishes.”

Jeras obediently took a step forward, narrowing the distance. We stopped at a suitable distance where I could see the shape of the wood Sion was carving. The carving looked like a small, four-legged animal. The knife Sion was holding wasn’t a dagger but a carving tool, and the way he held it gave off a professional vibe, even to someone who knew nothing about it. A sparkle shone on Sion’s serious face as he concentrated on his carving.

“He’s so cool… Whose brother is he to be so cool?”

“I told you, he just does that when he’s bored.”

“I wasn’t asking you. Ah. I think he’s done. Wow, it’s a deer. So cute.”

What Sion had finished was a small, baby spotted deer. Its long legs and small body, combined with its soft curves, exuded both cuteness and elegance. Sion turned the carving this way and that before holding it out to Siliya. His gesture was careful and courteous.

Siliya seemed surprised, freezing with a shocked expression. Sion, flustered, quickly offered an explanation.

“I apologize if this seems rude. I wanted to give this to you as a token of my gratitude for taking such good care of Eloe. And you were a great help when Eloe was kidnapped… Of course, this is not all. My parents are preparing a gift to thank you for your help. I believe my mother will send someone to deliver it soon.”

‘Wow…’ This was the first time I had ever heard Sion talk so much. It was a rare scene that didn’t even appear in the original story. Sion, who had just rapped off a string of words, gasped for air and then made a face as if he had said too much.

Jeras muttered from behind me.

“Does the princess think that’s cool?”

“He was cute just now.”

“I can’t figure out your standards.”

Sion is always cute and cool no matter what he does. That’s what a favorite character is. A being who receives unconditional, agape-like love.

‘By the way, why don’t you just stay quiet and not interfere? I can’t hear what they’re saying.’ I flailed my hand wildly to silence Jeras and focused on the two of them. I was so excited to see what Siliya’s reaction would be.

“You don’t have to give me anything.”

Sion’s face visibly darkened at Siliya’s drawing of a line. I also became serious. I knew Sion was interested in Siliya. The problem was Siliya’s feelings. I had been relieved that she only saw Jeras as a business partner, but did she have no interest in Sion either? I didn’t want to see my favorite character get his heart broken.

“I apologize for putting a burden on you.”

“Oh, no. It’s not that.”

Siliya waved her hand at Sion, who was bowing his head. Sion quietly looked up at her. Siliya’s ambiguous attitude was as exciting as watching a drama.

“Eloe helped and cared for me a lot when I was going through a tough time. I want to be a source of strength for Eloe as well. I think of her as a younger sister. So, I meant that I couldn’t accept a gift in return.”

“I had no idea you felt that way. I also didn’t know you had helped Lady Eloe before. Eloe… it seems she doesn’t tell me important things.”

“She probably doesn’t want to make you worry. She is very considerate.”

“I understand. She was sick for a long time. I just worry that she tries to solve things too much on her own.”

The atmosphere became very heavy because of me. Jeras, who had quietly moved to my side, nudged me with his eyes and chin. I glared at Jeras, but I was more concerned about the gloomy Sion. But I had my own circumstances that I couldn’t help. ‘I can’t tell him I’m a transmigrator, that I’m not his real little sister.’

Even if he called me selfish, I had no choice. This was the first family I had ever had. If not for them, I had nowhere to go, and I had come to think of them as my real family. I wanted them to be my real family.

“Then I will accept it if it’s a gift from you for personal reasons.”

Siliya’s calm voice broke my train of thought. ‘Oho.’ Jeras let out a low sound of admiration, as if he found this interesting.

Sion, who had been avoiding Siliya’s gaze, stared intently at her. A playful glint flashed in Siliya’s eyes.

“You’re giving this to me as a brother for his sister. Isn’t that a personal reason enough?”

“…Yes. Of course. You are right.”

“Then I will gratefully accept it.”

The deer carving was handed over to Siliya. Siliya held the carving in her palm and marveled at it several times. She also thanked him again for the precious gift. I clearly saw it. In that moment, Sion’s eyes, which were subtly turning red. His lips pressed together, and his fists clenched so tightly that the veins on the back of his hands popped out. His eyes wandered, not knowing what to do.

“That’s enough. Let’s go somewhere else before we get caught.”

Without a word, Jeras’s arm wrapped around my shoulder. We left the temple again. I elbowed Jeras in the chest, as he still didn’t seem to want to let go even after we were out, and he finally let go, muttering “Tsk.” 

‘Tsk? Are you kidding me?’ 

I glared at him with angry eyes, and Jeras shrugged and sat on a chair, crossing his legs. What a delinquent.

“What do you think of those two?”

“I can clearly see a future where Sion will be dominated.”

“Of course, a husband should listen to his wife. How is that being dominated?”

Jeras’s attitude was ambiguous, neither agreeing nor disagreeing. I crossed my arms.

Sion was definitely interested in Siliya. And Siliya… I wasn’t sure, but she didn’t seem to dislike him. I had only thought about it in my head before, but seeing them together in person, they suited each other much better than I thought. Their personalities are similar, too.

Yes, the similarity in their personalities is the problem. If we leave them alone, they’ll fumble and miss their timing. I had learned that timing is everything in a relationship. If they hesitate and miss their chance, even the most passionate feelings can cool down.

“Let’s help them get together.”

“How?”

“We’ll figure that out, you and I, from now on.”

Jeras scoffed, as if the idea was ridiculous. But then, his face became serious, and he asked me, “Are you sure? About Sion getting close to Lady Rioest?”

“Huh? Of course, I’m sure.”

“That’s surprising. I thought you’d say, ‘You can’t take my brother away! He’s my brother alone! You can’t get married!'”

How could he imitate my high-pitched voice so well? I glared at Jeras with a mixture of wonder and annoyance and pouted. Sion was my favorite character, but I never saw him as a romantic partner. Even before I was transmigrated, I felt a brotherly affection for him. And since he had such a tragic death in the original story, I’d be happy with anything as long as he was happy. That feeling hasn’t changed.

“I love my brother, so of course, I want him to be happy with a good person. Why are you so twisted?”

“Sion is just as twisted. You just don’t know, Princess. Why else would he be my friend?”

“My brother is so upright, he’s practically a square. You and… you and, ugh fine! It’s because of a love-hate relationship!”

“If thinking that makes you feel better, then go ahead.”

‘Ugh.’ 

His taunting attitude got on my nerves. I blew a puff of air to push my bangs away and created a hostile atmosphere.

“Anyway. Are you going to help me get them together or not?”

“I have no reason to refuse a golden opportunity to get rid of your annoying escort.”

Jeras snapped his fingers, making a cheerful sound. He grinned at me.

“Leave it to me.”

 

***

 

One day after another passed without any special incidents. The days would end before I knew it, filled with magic lessons from Nia, studying the books she gave me on my own, and exchanging information or just chatting with Siliya. Sion and Siliya seemed to be talking to each other while I was having my lessons with Nia. Whenever I went to Siliya’s room on the days Nia came, I would subtly notice one or two new wooden carvings. Most were cute animal carvings, but there were also a few delicate and beautiful flowers.

If there was one thing I could complain about in this peaceful daily life, it would be Jeras. He had confidently boasted to me to “leave it to him,” but I hadn’t seen a trace of him since. Nine out of ten times, when he suddenly disappears after showing up every other day, it means he’s gone to deal with a monster. But would it kill him to let me know he was leaving? It wasn’t that hard. I was subtly disappointed, sad, and anxious. It was partly because of Sion and Siliya, but mostly because I couldn’t be sure when Jeras would return, or if he would return at all.

‘Well, Jeras and I aren’t anything… anyway.’ 

A sigh escaped my lips without me realizing it. I had opened a book to pass the time, but the words wouldn’t register. The black was just black, and the white was just white paper.

I lay face down on the desk, groaning, and then was startled. What was this… this was the thought process of a teenage girl in her first love. No, it wasn’t. It was far from a fresh first love. It was just an ugly sight of someone who was deluding herself and drinking a boxful of disappointment, then denying reality and falling into despair.

Consumed with self-loathing, I thumped my forehead against the book before jumping to my feet.

‘I didn’t do anything wrong. That bastard, Jeras, is the one who made me think this!’

“That jerk… If you make a person feel like this, you should take responsibility.”

“Who are you talking to?”

“Who else but… you!”

I gasped and turned around to see Jeras standing there. I was surprised once by his nonchalant smile as he leaned against the door, and then a second time by his proper attire with a cape, instead of the usual loose-fitting clothes. I was so shocked that I could only open and close my mouth, unable to scream.

“How… since when?”

“For a while now. I knocked more than 10 times, and since you didn’t answer, I opened the door.”

“You knocked 10 times? Why didn’t I hear anything…?”

“Why do you think? It means you’re so deep in thought about me.”

‘This guy is a ghost… How long has he been watching me?’

But I didn’t want to admit that I was anxious because I was thinking about him. I also didn’t like how he just disappeared without a word and then appeared again as if nothing happened. This situation, where I was the only one caring, was completely unfair.

“What’s wrong? If it’s not urgent, let’s talk later. I have to finish this book today.”

“Is it homework?”

“Yeah, well. Something like that. What do you want?”

Jeras ignored my question and walked towards me. I turned my body away from him and sat up straight. The fingers holding the edge of the bookshelf were trembling slightly. ‘Why, why am I so nervous? Don’t be scared, Eloe!’

As I was berating myself, Jeras, who was standing right behind me, stretched out his long arm. His gloved hand made a sound as it slammed the book shut. The small sound, for some reason, sounded as loud as thunder.

“I’ll help you with this later.”

Jeras leaned down. A cool, chilling sensation ran down the back of my neck where his slightly damp hair touched me. He paused for a moment and moved his hands. His long fingers and large palm carefully covered the back of my hand.

“Go with me today.”

“I’m…”

I was about to agree, overwhelmed by his presence, but then I came to my senses. ‘I can’t do this!’ 

I dodged his hand and hid both of mine behind my back.

“I, I don’t want to! You show up after days, and you expect me to just go with you without any explanation? Do I look like the kind of person who would happily follow you? I have things to do, too. I don’t just wait for you all day.”

“I’m sorry, Princess.”

“Huh? Uh?”

I had unconsciously blurted out my true feelings, but he apologized so easily that I was embarrassed and flustered. Based on my past experiences, the chances of Jeras apologizing first were less than 10%. Something that was hard to happen had just happened.

I lost my chance to answer and was just looking around when Jeras moved next to me, knelt on one knee, and looked up at me.

“Why are you acting like this when you’re wearing nice clothes? You’ll get them dirty. Get up, hurry!”

“A high-ranking demon was going on a rampage, and I had to go in a hurry, so I didn’t have time to come say hi to you. I had to go near the capital and take care of it quickly. Regardless of the circumstances, I’m sorry for making you wait.”

“…I told you I didn’t wait.”

“Then you missed me?”

‘Come on, go ahead and look and touch.’ He took my hand, placed it on his cheek, and tilted his head to lean into it. Jeras’s face, up close and touching my hand, was a little rough.

‘Come to think of it,’ Jeras must have been overworking himself to stay in Rivai for me. Normally, he’d be busy traveling all over the empire to eliminate demons or monsters. He was skilled, and he was the only one who could differentiate demons, so most of the time, he was the only one who could handle these things.

“Jeras.”

“Hmm?”

“I’m fine. You don’t have to overdo it. I have my brother, Grandpa Mason, my master, and Siliya. I can handle things to a certain extent on my own.”

Jeras’s eyes, which had been closed, opened. It felt strange to have his red eyes, which always looked down on me, looking up at me. Jeras curled one side of his lips into a crooked smile and then immediately turned serious.

“Listen to me, Princess. When you’re having a hard time, when you’re in danger, when you feel like crying, the first person you should look for is me. Not Sion or anyone else.”

“But… isn’t that hard? You’re not always by my side.”

“Not right now, but I will be soon.”

Jeras said this as a declaration and then kissed the palm of my hand deeply. His red eyes shone fiercely between his neatly combed bangs, like those of a wild animal. But the look vanished in an instant, and he returned to his usual playful expression.

“If you’re no longer mad, shall we go? To achieve our common goal.”

 

***

 

Jeras and I had a common goal. When I first heard it, I thought it was nonsense, but after I followed Jeras out, I realized what it was. It was to help Sion and Siliya’s relationship progress. It turned out that Jeras had already told Sion and Siliya to go somewhere together, and then he came to get me. And when I didn’t answer, he just opened the door and came in. But even Sion and Siliya didn’t know the exact destination. It seemed only Jeras, who had planned it all, knew.

So, the four of us got on the magic circle, following Jeras’s lead. Sion and I asked several times where we were going, but he didn’t answer. When we opened our eyes, enduring the nausea, the landscape that greeted us was, surprisingly, a pure white snowy field. It felt strange that there was no cold, and then I heard Sion muttering softly next to me.

“The Pearl Desert. Why are we… here?”

“Don’t just stand there. Let’s move. If we dawdle and are late, it’ll tarnish my reputation. Princess? Shall we go?”

Jeras, who had wedged himself between Sion and me, held out his hand to me. Sion poked his head out and shot him a fierce glare. ‘You must not take that guy’s hand, Eloe!’ I could almost hear the Grand Duke’s furious voice.

I gave Sion a bright smile and took Jeras’s hand. As expected, Sion reacted immediately.

“Eloe!”

“I’ll escort the princess, so you don’t have to worry. Take care of Lady Rioest.”

Jeras patted Sion’s shoulder in encouragement and led the way. The sand underfoot was so soft that every step felt pleasant.

He called it the Pearl Desert? Then this white sand must all be pearl powder.

“This place is at the western edge of the Empire. As Sion said, it’s called the Pearl Desert.”

“The western edge of the Empire? Are we allowed to go this far?”

“Just think of it as a little walk. You must have been cooped up in the temple.”

The sun must have risen in the west today. Or maybe Jeras ate something wrong. Earlier, and now, Jeras’s uncalculated kindness was unfamiliar, but I didn’t dislike it. In fact… to be honest, I liked it. So much that I had to suppress a silly grin. I tried my best not to be too conscious of Jeras and soon fell into a daze at the fantastic scenery of the Pearl Desert.

The fine, white powder stretched to the horizon. This place was different from both the sea and the desert. Everything was colored white, but the sky was blue, and sometimes the clear sky reflected like a mirror in the pools of water, making it feel otherworldly. The soft crunching of footsteps far behind us, the occasional breeze, and Jeras’s hand holding mine tightly. All of these things came together to make my heart pound. Especially because we were holding hands and walking, not like a formal escort where I would hold his arm. If it weren’t for Sion and Siliya’s presence, I would have thought I was on a date with Jeras.

“We’re here.”

Jeras, who had been quietly walking beside me, stopped. He made a motion as if knocking on thin air. What was he doing? My question was soon answered. A magnificent door suddenly appeared where there was nothing before and opened wide without a sound.

“Wow, it’s like magic.”

“How did you know? It’s a restaurant run by a famous mage himself. Only those with permission can enter.”

A restaurant run by a mage, how cool is that? Especially with a secret entrance. My expectations were soaring even before I entered. How did Jeras know about this place and get permission?

Jeras went in first, and Sion, Siliya, and I followed. As we passed through the door, a lavishly decorated interior came into view. The paintings on the walls and the chandeliers hanging from the ceiling looked expensive and luxurious. We walked down a short corridor, and a white-haired gentleman dressed as a waiter bowed to us.

“We’ve been waiting for you. It is an honor to have the opportunity to serve you, Master Jeras.”

“The honor is mine. Did you get what I asked for?”

“Of course. Everything has been prepared as you requested.”

Jeras exchanged a suspicious look with the old gentleman and nodded. As if on cue, the gentleman walked past me and approached Sion and Siliya, who were waiting behind us.

After a few quiet words with the gentleman, Sion frowned and looked at me.

“Is it really impossible?”

“Yes. It is our establishment’s policy. I apologize, but we ask for your understanding.”

“But I can’t leave Eloe alone with Jeras…”

“Oh dear, I’m afraid it’s already time I showed you to your seats.”

As soon as the gentleman finished speaking, the floor rumbled and rippled. I instinctively clung to Jeras, who was standing beside me. Sion, who had been about to charge towards us, was suddenly blocked by a wall that rose from the floor and disappeared.

“Brother, Siliya Unnie!”

“This way, Princess.”

Jeras, who was more nonchalant than ever, pointed to a perfectly set table with two chairs. He winked at me when our eyes met.

“Let’s just leave them to it and enjoy our time together.”

The wall completely separated us from Sion and Siliya. I knew Sion wouldn’t just stand by. Since I couldn’t even hear their voices, some kind of special mechanism must have been installed.

“Please, have a seat, my lady.”

Jeras pulled out a chair for me, taking the place of the old gentleman who had gone to Sion. I sat down obediently, and Jeras also sat across from me with a relaxed movement.

A faint song could be heard from somewhere. I thought they had music playing, but they didn’t. The sound was coming from Jeras. He was humming to himself. I couldn’t tell what song it was, but his low, hushed voice was pleasant to listen to. His lowered eyes and the slight upward curve of his lips clearly showed that he was in a good mood.

“I’m handsome, aren’t I?”

“Don’t you feel any self-loathing when you say something like that about yourself?”

“Not at all. Don’t you feel self-loathing when you lie? I’m just stating a fact, so why would I feel self-loathing?”

“Right, of course you wouldn’t.”

“What? I was just asking because you were looking at me with a satisfied expression. Are you embarrassed? There’s no need to be. It’s just you and me here.”

Jeras nodded as if he understood everything and retorted playfully. Ugh, really. If he would just keep his mouth shut, he would look a hundred times cooler and more handsome. I thought we finally had a good atmosphere going.

I let out a deep sigh. 

‘How did I end up liking this kind of guy?’ 

Of course, he was handsome, but I didn’t want to spell it out for him and let him get all cocky.

“That’s not it. I was just looking at you because you seemed to be in a good mood.”

“Hmm. I am. Because I’m finally free from the frightening aura of the princess’s brother.”

“Would you stop tormenting my kind brother?”

“Kind? Sion?”

I lightly ignored Jeras’s incredulous reaction. If Sion wasn’t kind, then no one in this world would be. He was diligent, gentle, dependable, and steadfast. There was no part of him that wasn’t kind. Of course!

‘I wonder what the atmosphere is like on Sion’s side?’

“Pardon me for interrupting your conversation, m’lady.”

A very cute voice came from under the table. I looked down and saw a beast covered in black fur holding a tray in one hand. Looking closer, I could see that it was wearing a waiter’s uniform similar to the old gentleman’s on top of its black fur. It had a small, bright red bow tie, the same color as its eyes, as a accent.

“A rabbit…?”

“I am not, customer. I am a rabbét.”

Its long ears, which were perked up, lay flat and then twitched. 

‘Oh.’ 

I knew those ears. They were like the signal a cat gives right before it gets angry. The creature in front of me wasn’t a cat, but it seemed upset. No, it was certain. It must have been offended at being called a rabbit.

“I’m sorry. This is my first time here…”

“It is okay. Humans are a species prone to making mistakes, so it cannot be helped. I, who am very understanding, will understand.”

“Uh, um. I’m sorry.”

“I will prepare your food.”

The rabbét, who had just delivered a blunt insult in a cute tone, set down the dishes on the table. With its short hands, or feet, or hands… anyway, with its cute, furry appendages, it worked busily, and a fairly large table was instantly filled with delicious-looking dishes. It was amazing how new dishes kept appearing from the tray without the rabbét going back and forth for more. It was like watching a magic show.

“Please take your time and enjoy your meal. When you are finished, please call for me. I will bring you your dessert.”

“Thank you.”

“Will you only thank me with words? Please show me some sincerity.”

‘Huh…?’

The rabbét said this boldly, staring intently at me. 

‘What, what? What does it want? Sincerity? What am I supposed to do?’

The rabbét, who had been waiting patiently, let out a sigh and held out its short hand. 

‘What is it asking for? Is it a tip? I didn’t know there was a tipping culture here. But I don’t have a single coin…’

Flustered, my head instinctively turned to Jeras. Jeras burst into laughter. He gestured for the rabbét. Several fingernail-sized mana stones fell into the rabbét’s palm.

“I will call you if I need anything.”

“Please call me anytime.”

The demanding attitude it had shown me was completely gone, and it bowed very politely. Then it flapped the bat-like wings on its back and disappeared.

‘I really don’t know what’s going on…’ 

My mind was a mess. A cold bead of sweat trickled down my spine.

“It’s an interesting creature. Aren’t you hungry? Go on and eat.”

Jeras unfolded a napkin and placed it on his lap, looking at me. It seemed he was waiting for me to eat first.

I unfolded my napkin and took a spoonful of soup. It was warm and savory and slid down smoothly, enveloping my entire mouth. It was delicious!

“How is it? Is it okay?”

“Yes. It’s delicious. You eat too. By the way, you look familiar with this place. Have you been here often?”

“Not often, just about five times.”

‘With whom?’

I was so shocked that I put a piece of bread in my mouth, swallowing the question. This… this was just like…

‘I’m imagining a past that doesn’t exist and getting jealous for no reason.’

“No matter how I look at it, you look like a squirrel.”

“…What?”

“A squirrel.”

Jeras’s expression was mischievous as he poked my cheeks, which were puffed up with bread. I chewed and swallowed the bread I had stuffed in my mouth, afraid he would say something strange. Jeras was still wearing a smile that said he was enjoying this to no end, as he served some food onto his plate.

I chewed on a salad with a refreshing sauce and was lost in thought.

The calm and elegant restaurant, the private space with no one to bother us, and Jeras across from me, who hated dressing up but was in impeccable attire. All of these factors pointed to one fact.

Jeras and I were on a date right now.

‘I said we should help Sion and Siliya, not go on a date.’

It was a difficult situation, but not entirely, and I couldn’t just happily enjoy it.

What were we to each other? We had feelings for each other and knew that, but we were by no means officially dating. Jeras had never directly said he liked me. I hadn’t either. Yet, we didn’t find the time we spent alone awkward. In fact, it seemed we took it for granted. The feeling of emptiness I felt when Jeras didn’t come for a few days must have been for that reason. The time I spent with Jeras, whether it was for a walk or something else, had just vanished.

‘What if… I’m the only one who’s deluding myself?’

I didn’t want to make a fool of myself. But I had a reason to think this way. It was because of Jeras from the original story. In the original story, Jeras didn’t beat around the bush. The moment he was sure of his feelings for Siliya, he confessed right away.

He might have been in a hurry because Siliya was in danger, but it was a very Jeras-like confession. It was a straightforward approach that suited his honest personality, far from lingering thoughts or anguish.

‘I wish I hadn’t known anything at all.’ 

I didn’t know that knowing Jeras’s past would trip me up like this. It seems that knowing a lot isn’t always a good thing. But I couldn’t just honestly ask him, ‘Why haven’t you confessed to me yet?’ Even though I wanted to.

“You don’t think I’m the kind of person who would sit and eat with a woman I don’t even like, do you?”

I had let out a small sigh, and now I froze. 

‘Good god, was he psychic? Did I just mutter that out loud without realizing it?’ 

My face was burning with embarrassment. I lowered my head and put a small piece of tomato in my mouth, pretending to eat. I couldn’t taste anything.

“…No.”

“Of course you do. It’s written all over your face.”

“Then what is it? Do you really like me?”

“Ha.”

Jeras let out a short sound that was somewhere between a sigh and a laugh. My shoulders instinctively hunched. I couldn’t say anything and just gripped my fork, poking at the innocent steak. From the corner of my eye, I saw Jeras’s hand put down his fork and disappear.

That was such a pathetic question. I just wanted to die. 

‘Should I die?’ 

I glared at the knife, biting my lower lip, and finally managed to get some words out.

“It was nonsense. You don’t have to answer…”

“Eloe.”

The table rattled. My knee had bumped the table when I flinched. Before I could feel the pain, Jeras’s words continued.

“You’re the only woman I call by her first name.”

“…Ugh.”

“When I wake up in the morning, I wonder if you slept well last night. In the afternoon, I wonder what you’re doing. And at night, I go see you secretly because I miss you.”

“I get it, stop… Wait, what? You came to see me secretly?”

I lifted my head, which had been crumpled like a turtle’s, and my eyes met Jeras’s. I was so captivated by his serious gaze that I couldn’t move. I forgot to breathe, just staring into Jeras’s eyes.

A tingling heat spread from my fingers and toes to my heart and head. My dazed mind couldn’t form a single thought. At one point, Jeras’s eyes softened. 

‘Ah.’ 

That look. The same one he gave me when he called my name in the forest. It was a look of such deep affection and gentleness that it made my heart swell. My body felt like it was wrapped in a warm cloud, floating upward. It was the perfect timing for a crucial confession.

“Do I have to spell it out for you? You’re more dense than I thought.”

The teasing, playful jab mixed with a laugh made my body, which was about to float to the sky, plummet back down. Jeras took his eyes off me, calmly put a piece of steak in his mouth, and chewed. My vision, which had narrowed so that only Jeras was in it, opened up. I then realized that my fork had fallen from my hand. It seemed I had lost my grip. I tried to pick it up but gave up. My fingertips were still trembling.

“I’m not dense. How can I know what’s on someone’s mind if they don’t say anything? You have to say it.”

“Now that I’ve said it, do you understand?”

‘Uh…’ 

I didn’t know how to answer. I rolled my eyes, trying to think of a clever reply, but gave up. I knew from experience that it was better not to try and win an argument with Jeras. Instead, I just asked him honestly.

“What happens if I say I do?”

“We’ll have to get ready, then.”

“Ready for what?”

“I’ll get ready for a formal confession. You’ll get ready to formally accept my feelings.”

Because this isn’t a formal confession yet. Jeras added briefly, then wiped his mouth with a napkin and looked at me. His face, devoid of playfulness, felt unfamiliar and unreadable.

“Ah, right. Since we’re on the subject, I might as well tell you.”

A tense silence hung in the air between us. I swallowed hard. Jeras’s lips slowly parted.

“I like to have at least four children.”

“…Excuse me, are you insane?”

“I am perfectly sane.”

“No way. Is that something a sane person would say?”

“Why? It’s not something that can’t be said. We’ll have to discuss it sometime.”

“Oh my goodness. A piece of trash can talk. I’ll have to ask them to take you away.”

I picked up the bell the rabbét had left. Jeras reached out and covered my hand. His hand was so big that it completely covered not only my hand but also the bell.

I glared at Jeras. My chest was burning with rage, but his eyes were crinkled in a hateful smile. It was a smile that seemed to say he knew everything about my feelings. My stubbornness flared, and I spoke with determination.

“Don’t get ahead of yourself. I never said I liked you.”

“That’s so mean. You don’t like me? Then were you playing with me?”

“Why do you keep saying such strange things? Playing with you? I didn’t do anything with you!”

“You didn’t do anything, you say.”

Jeras stood up, holding my hand. He took a couple of big steps and knelt beside me. I knew what his stance meant. This was a guy whose pride was so strong it reached the sky, who hated even bowing his head in front of others, and here he was, humbling himself for me. Knowing this, I desperately tried to suppress my heart’s reflexive pounding.

As if he was determined to mess with me, Jeras’s fingers went between mine and intertwined them.

“You held my hand like this.”

A pleasant weight settled on my lap. The head that had been resting on my knees suddenly turned. I turned away in a flustered panic. His lazy, slow voice continued.

“And you gave me a lap pillow.”

He rubbed his face against my knees like an affectionate cat. Was it because of his pointed eyes? He looked quite cute.

No, I must be completely and utterly blinded by love.

After rubbing against me for a while, Jeras stood up and positioned himself behind me. Before my bad feeling could even fade, his firm arms wrapped around me. His pleasant voice flowed into my ear from above.

“And you hugged me.”

“Haa… Just let go and sit down. Let’s talk sitting down.”

“I’ll stay like this until you say you understand.”

‘This bastard is unbelievable.’ 

Why is he so stubborn? Even if Jeras was right, how many steps was he skipping? This wouldn’t do. If I let him go on like this, there’s no telling what he’ll do. I didn’t want to resort to this method, but I had to.

“Jeras, you say you like me, but why won’t you listen to me? Do you like it when I’m in a difficult situation? Or are you the one who’s playing with me?”

I deliberately used a cold tone. Jeras’s hands flinched. 

‘Thank goodness, he’s reacting.’ I had to push harder.

“Why don’t you answer? Is it true?”

“Of course not.”

“Then let go and go back to your seat. The food will get cold. It looks delicious, so let me savor it slowly. If you don’t, I’m going back.”

“…Okay. Fine.”

With a sigh, Jeras’s arms loosened. He walked back to his seat with slouched shoulders, looking like a cat that had put up a fierce fight and gotten a thorough bath. I cut a piece of meat with sauce and placed it on his plate. I had to acknowledge his effort for bringing me here and preparing such a wonderful meal.

“After we eat, want to sneak out and see the desert? I want to explore it.”

‘What do you think?’ I smiled to show that I wasn’t really mad. Jeras blinked, picked up his fork, and began to cut and eat his meat with a fighting spirit.

Looking at him now, he just seemed immature and mischievous. But sometimes, when he gets a little crazy, he’s uncontrollable. 

‘Trouble. If I keep using threats, they’ll stop working one day.’

The thought shocked me. I’d assumed, without even realizing it, that I’d still be with Jeras in the future. No wonder he’d been so smug, rambling about kids.

“Why aren’t you eating, Princess?”

“Just watching you eat fills me up.”

I came up with a random excuse, not wanting him to know what I was thinking. Jeras raised an eyebrow as if my words were nonsense. He looked like he was about to force me to eat something, so I quickly put the seared scallop that was on my plate into my mouth. It was tangy and sweet from the sauce and incredibly delicious.

 

***

 

“Your Highness, are you returning to the palace?”

The guard at the gate habitually greeted Jeras, then realized his mistake. Jeras disliked entering the Imperial Palace through the gate, calling it a bothersome inconvenience. Leaping over the walls was a common occurrence, and there were also times when he would forcefully open unauthorized magic circles, causing a commotion. The emperor and Kieryk had gently tried to persuade him that passing through the gate was a much better and faster way than causing a ruckus and cleaning up after it, but he had paid them no mind.

The guard, who had just realized his blunder, stiffened. As he seriously considered whether to kneel, something light tapped him on the shoulder. It was Jeras’s hand.

‘Agh…!’

“I have committed a great disrespect! I apologize—”

“You’re working hard. When is your shift change?”

“Ah… yes! In one hour, I’ll be relieved by the night shift!”

“Not much time left. Hang in there until your shift change.”

“Yes? Yes, yes! I’ll keep that in mind!”

The guard, who had been terrified, imagining the worst, was dumbfounded. Jeras walked past him, who was still saluting with a blank expression. The guard then clearly heard Jeras humming a low tune. He looked like he was in such a good mood that he was about to fly. The guard tilted his head as he watched Jeras quickly disappear. He had been guarding the gate for over three years, and this was the first time he had ever seen Jeras like this. It was completely unbelievable.

‘I didn’t know she could eat all that food. Does she have a pouch hidden in her stomach? Surely she wasn’t still hungry… Should’ve ordered more.’

Jeras’s mind was completely filled with thoughts of Eloe. Watching Eloe eat every last bite of the dessert, all the sorrow from having to catch and deliver all kinds of monsters alive for the mage who ran the restaurant was completely washed away. The two had finished their satisfying meal and had snuck out of the restaurant using an invisibility cloak. Eloe’s face, looking into the small pond that reflected the clear sky like a mirror, sparkled as if dappled with light. Seeing Eloe look at the footprints left on the white sand dunes and touch the sand with her hands made him feel happy, too.

Their quiet walk ended when Jeras found a pearl buried in the sand. Eloe’s face was flushed as she held the coin-sized pearl in both hands.

It’s so beautiful. How did you find it? I’ll keep it safe in my jewelry box. Thank you!

‘You’re so cute. I understand why Sion hid you away so much. It’s rewarding to give you a gift. Where should I take you next…’

“You have a terrible look on your face…”

“How dare you… Master?”

Jeras stiffened his face, which had been grinning as he recalled Eloe waving at him before entering the temple. Nia, who was sitting hunched in front of the door, shook her head as if she had just seen something awful.

“Come inside. We need to talk.”

The fact that Nia, who only left the academy for Eloe’s private lessons, had come here herself meant the matter was serious. Jeras silently let Nia in and securely locked the door. As soon as Nia sat down, she got to the point.

“Did you know that Kieryk’s condition is strange?”

“Yes. To some extent.”

“Something was bothering me, so I used a spell to reconstruct Kieryk’s memory. Because he said he had no memory of the day of Eloe’s birthday party.”

Jeras silently waited for Nia’s next words. Despite his unruffled, expressionless face, he was complicated and in anguish on the inside. Eloe’s words, “the curse,” and the ominous premonition he had felt several times, had finally reached a level where even Nia could sense it.

If his suspicion was correct… Nia would never just leave Kieryk alone. She wasn’t the type to be swayed by personal affection. At times, she was colder and more cruel than anyone else, advocating for the sacrifice of a few for the good of the many.

“To get to the point, it failed.”

“Failed…?”

“Exactly. The spell didn’t work. It felt like a high-dimensional mana was repelling my mana. That’s not all.”

Nia pushed up her loose sleeve. Jeras looked at her arm and was inwardly horrified. Scars, as if from a sharp blade, covered her right arm.

“He attacked me while he was unconscious. It was Kieryk’s mana, but it was impure, and its attribute was unstable. Like a demon’s mana.”

He had finally heard the words he most hated and feared hearing. He couldn’t believe, and didn’t want to believe, that Kieryk had inflicted such deep wounds on Nia, even if he was unconscious. Jeras ran a hand over his forehead and stared at Nia’s arm. His expression and eyes grew dark.

“Understood. Let’s get you treated first. I’ll call a priest.”

“I’ve already applied first aid. Kieryk doesn’t even remember attacking me. That means his consciousness is not clear. Jeras, you know what I’m about to say.”

“My brother receives daily checkups and blessings from a priest. Mason didn’t say anything when he met him last time. And my eyes…”

“Can you swear that you ‘looked’ at Kieryk properly?”

Jeras was speechless. He couldn’t answer Nia’s sharp question. The excuse that he didn’t have time to check on Kieryk was just that, an excuse. He could have used his ‘eyes’ to see his soul in the brief moment he passed Kieryk. But Jeras hadn’t done so. No, he couldn’t.

Because he was afraid that Kieryk’s soul might be tainted.

“For Kieryk’s sake, it’s better that you confirm it. If the Great Temple gets involved, Kieryk’s position will be in danger.”

“…I know.”

“There’s no time. We need to act quickly. I’ll give you three days. I can’t wait any longer than that.”

Nia, who had made her conclusion, stood up. A magic circle was drawn at her feet. It was a one-time teleportation circle connected to the academy.

“When you’ve assessed the situation, come to me. I’ll be waiting.”

“If my brother’s condition is as you suspect, how do we fix it?”

“Can I be honest?”

Jeras nodded. Nia lowered her eyes and answered.

“In the worst-case scenario, you might have to kill Kieryk.”

Jeras didn’t answer. He fully understood Nia’s feelings and the situation that led her to say such a cold thing. But there was a huge difference between understanding and accepting. In truth, he was resentful of Nia. Following that, a torrent of anger and frustration surged within him. Did she not know what Kieryk meant to him, how much he loved and looked up to him, to say something like that without hesitation?

Kieryk was the only family Jeras had. It was Kieryk, not his father or his master, who had first recognized and praised his abilities. No matter how bad his pranks were or how harsh his words were, Kieryk truly cared for and loved him. Anger welled up, making his head and chest burn. If he opened his mouth, he felt he would unleash all his rage on Nia. Jeras pressed his lips together and gripped the corner of the table. With a crack, the table shattered in his hand.

Nia’s eyes, as she looked at the broken pieces, were as emotionless as ever. She let out a short sigh and spoke one last time. The magic circle, ready to activate, pulsed with a bright light.

“That’s the worst-case scenario. To prevent that, we have to move quickly.”

“That sounds like a threat.”

“I don’t care if you’re angry or sarcastic. If it helps you clear your head.”

“…I’m sorry. That was uncalled for.”

“It’s nothing new. It’s okay. If it gets too hard, talk to my disciple. She seemed to be the first one to notice Kieryk’s condition.”

With those words, Nia’s figure vanished without a sound.

Jeras, left alone in the large room, habitually ran a hand through his hair. His eyes, wavering and wandering, reflected his complicated feelings.

‘…Kill my brother with my own hands?’

Jeras looked down at his hands. He had killed countless monsters and demons with them. There was no hesitation in his swings. Some people even treated him like a vulgar, blood-crazed monster hunter. They said he hunted monsters because his naturally cruel and violent nature made it impossible for him to shed human blood.

He had no regrets, for it was to prove his worth, to protect the things he valued, and for the future he dreamed of. The base and cowardly rumors were just a source of amusement. But if, for any reason, he had to stain his hands with his brother’s blood…

“Damn it.”

He slammed his fist down on the table. Jeras rested his forehead in his cupped hands.