"Miss Park, where are my documents?"
The sound of her boss's yelling echoed through the phone, barely audible over the sound of rain pounding against the pavement. Ji-eun clutched her umbrella tighter, rushing through the downpour.
"I informed you that I need them by midnight. Finish it" her boss continued to bark orders. Ji-eun could only respond with a hurried, "Yes, sir" as she darted through the rain, glancing at her watch. It was just two hours before midnight, and she had barely grabbed her dinner on the go.
The call abruptly ended, and Ji-eun stuffed her phone into her pocket, her mind racing with the list of tasks she needed to complete. She was so preoccupied that she didn't notice the truck speeding towards her as she stepped off the curb to cross the road.
The driver, fighting to control the vehicle in the heavy rain, desperately tried to steer away. But the slick roads and the sheer weight of the truck made it impossible.
Ji-eun turned at the last moment, her eyes widening in horror as the truck barreled towards her. She tried to move, but it was too late. The world went black as the impact threw her into oblivion.
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> 2nd February
>
> This world's protagonist is... a transmigrated woman.
>
>
>
> Ji-eun Park.
>
>
>
> My surroundings look like a bedroom of a noble. Marble and gold adorn every surface. The owner of this place is undoubtedly wealthy, likely a high-ranking noble.
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Springing from the bed, Ji-eun looked around, confusion clouding her thoughts. she realized this wasn’t the road. What had just happened to her?
"Maybe this is a prank video?" she wondered aloud, but the hit had felt too real. This didn’t look anything like a hospital, either.
She spotted a small mirror on the bedside table and picked it up to check for injuries. What she saw in the reflection made her gasp. It wasn’t her own face staring back at her.The reflection was of a stunning woman, about her age, with fair skin and beautiful, long, well-maintained purple hair. Her sky-blue eyes were striking, almost otherworldly.
Ji-eun's heart raced as she noticed the name inscribed on the mirror: Clarissa Valemontane.Ji-eun recognized the name immediately. Clarissa Valemontane was the villainess in the novel she’d been reading lately.
Ji-eun tried to think. The story was a typical romance fantasy about a male lead who fell in love with the female lead, while the obsessive villainess tried everything to separate them. And that villainess was none other than Clarissa. "Am I going to die by the Evan's hand like in the story?" Ji-eun blabbed to herself.
"Why is it that every transmigrator always thinks like that?" came a voice from the other side of the room. Ji-eun turned toward the voice and saw a man in a cloak sitting on a chair.
Panic surged through her. She thought someone was there to hurt her and began begging for her life. "Please, don't kill me! I can help you get rich because I know the future of this world!"
Cedric sat there, looking at Ji-eun as she begged him not to kill her. He thought to himself that maybe it was time to stop wearing the cloak. "An assassin, waiting for his victim to wake up. In broad daylight? That's a creative way of thinking, Miss Ji-eun Park," he said, a hint of amusement in his voice.
Ji-eun was surprised after hearing Cedric's words. "You're not really here to kill me? How did you know my name?"
Cedric replied calmly, "I came here to help. Don't worry, apart from your name, I don't know much else. My name is… You can just call me Cedric."
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> 3rd February
>
> Transmigrate Reincarnated woman*
>
>
>
> Clarissa Valemontane—Ji-eun's new identity—is the daughter of a duke. Luxurious life, strained relationship with her father.
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>
>
> Clarissa is the villainess in Ji-eun's story. Typical romance fantasy: male lead loves female protagonist, villainess tries to tear them apart.
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>
>
> Met the duke today. I introduced myself as Clarissa’s personal guard, using an emperor's signed paper. The duke barely questioned it, likely due to his distant relationship with Clarissa.
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>
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> Plan: Avoid the original story's tragic fate. Ji-eun will live as a noblewoman, enjoying her new life. We must prevent Clarissa's death by the duke’s hand.
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> Our goal is to change her story and ensure her survival. Every decision is crucial. Ready to guide her through this.
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> 17th February
>
> Ji-eun is trying her best to adapt to her new lifestyle. Safe to say, for a modern person living without technology, it's a bit hard for her.
>
>
>
> Talking about technology, what was the world with technology like again? I asked her, and she told me a lot about them—things I had forgotten for a really long time. Why didn’t I ask other modern-day travelers in the other worlds?
>
>
>
> It’s been a long time. I'm glad I was sent here. At least there's still a little bit of the world that used to be my home. But what does my home look like now? How long has it been? I can't tell…
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"That's not the right one" Cedric corrected Ji-eun, pointing at the utensils laid out before them. "That one is for general stew, while the smaller one is for thick soup."
Ji-eun sighed, feeling overwhelmed by the myriad of rules. "Can I sit further away? I'm not very comfortable sitting so close to the duke."
Cedric looked at her with a mixture of patience and firmness. "You're living as the duke's daughter now. Sitting next to him is normal. Maybe try befriending him?"
"I tried," Ji-eun said, exasperated. "But he gave me a cold look."
Cedric nodded, understanding her frustration. "It will take time. Keep trying."
As they continued with the lesson, Ji-eun mentioned something that piqued Cedric’s interest. "I got an invitation to a party. Considering who Clarissa was, it's pretty weird. Didn't she always ruin parties because of her jealousy?"
Cedric paused, thinking about the implications. "That's unusual. It could be an opportunity for you to change her reputation. But be cautious. Not everyone may welcome the change."
Ji-eun nodded thoughtfully. "I'll be careful. Maybe this is a chance to show everyone that Clarissa has changed."
Cedric smiled slightly. "Exactly. Let's use this opportunity to our advantage"
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> 4th March
>
> Got my outfit, I'm leaving the cloak again, huh? But I guess that's for the better, both for me and the future protagonists.
>
>
>
> I'm trying to speed through high society etiquette so that Ji-eun can fit in. Let's hope that the party goes smoothly, but I don't have much hope considering original Clarissa's reputation.
>
>
>
> Talking about reputation, the maids in this estate seem surprised by Clarissa's less aggressive personality nowaday. Starting small with people in her now own home is always a good start.
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"Cedric, help!"
Ji-eun called from inside the room while the maid was dressing her up, ensuring that her outfit for the following night's party was perfect.
Cedric stood in front of the closed door of Ji-eun's room. "Why are you asking me for help?" he asked through the door. "I'm a man, I can't help you dress. You're on your own this time."
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Several hours later, Ji-eun emerged from the room, trembling and panting. "Dressing up is no joke," she said, exasperated.
Cedric chuckled softly, trying to cheer her up. "It'll get easier every time. You'll get the hang of it."
Ji-eun sighed, looking at her reflection in a nearby mirror. "I hope so. The party is tomorrow, and I don't want to mess it up."
Cedric placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Just be yourself, or rather, the best version of Clarissa you can be."
Ji-eun nodded, determination filling her eyes. "I'll do my best. Thanks, Cedric."
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The night of the party arrived, and Ji-eun, now Clarissa, along with Cedric, stepped into the grand ballroom. As expected, the guests turned their gazes toward them, curious and wary. It was as if they were waiting to see if Clarissa would stir any trouble tonight.
The room was adorned with glittering chandeliers and lavish decorations, the epitome of high society elegance. Ji-eun clung to Cedric, trying to avoid any unnecessary attention. Her anxiety was palpable, but Cedric remained a steady presence by her side.
As they navigated the room, not only were eyes on Clarissa, but also on Cedric. His presence drew curious looks, and whispers circulated about the unfamiliar yet striking man accompanying lady Clarissa. Some ladies looked at Clarissa with curiosity, wondering where she had managed to find such a man.
This narrative has been purloined without the author's approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.
Just a moment later, the male lead, Duke Evan Celoius, made his entrance. His presence commanded attention, his tall frame and sharp features drawing admiring glances. He had striking black hair, white skin, and was super handsome. Many ladies looked at him, mesmerized by his appearance. However, there was still no sign of the female lead, Osiria.
As they navigated through the room, a group of ladies approached them, their smiles polite but their eyes sharp. "Clarissa, it's been so long," one of them said, her voice dripping with false sweetness.
Ji-eun forced a smile, unsure of how to respond. Cedric observed them closely, trying to gauge their intentions. Were they genuine friends, or were they using Clarissa for their own gain?
The ladies continued to engage Ji-eun in conversation, talking about recent events and gossiping about other nobles.
As the evening progressed, Cedric found himself surrounded by people curious about his origins and identity. The crowd of inquisitive nobles and curious ladies swarmed around him, effectively separating him from Ji-eun.
Meanwhile, Ji-eun stood quietly, trying to blend in despite the attention. Some ladies noticed her unusual silence and asked if she was feeling unwell. "Are you sick, Lady Valemontane?" one of them inquired, her tone laced with feigned concern.
Ji-eun forced a smile and replied, "I'm just a little tired, that's all."
Another lady in the group leaned in closer and whispered to Ji-eun, "Where did you find a man like that?" She glanced over at Cedric, her interest evident. "Are you over his grace?"
Before Ji-eun could respond, a maid stumbled toward them, accidentally bumping into one of the ladies. The maid managed to balance herself, preventing the drinks on her tray from spilling, but the lady she bumped into was visibly frustrated. In a fit of anger, she grabbed a drink and splashed it onto the maid.
Ji-eun watched in horror, too late to stop the act. The maid stood there, drenched and humiliated. Ji-eun quickly grabbed the maid by the hand and led her to a nearby balcony, away from the prying eyes and mocking giggles of the other ladies.
The ladies in the group giggled amongst themselves, assuming that Clarissa was dragging the maid away to further reprimand her.
Once on the balcony, Ji-eun handed the maid a handkerchief. "Here, take this," she said gently.
The maid bowed deeply, trying to refuse the gift. "I'm so sorry, my lady. Please, I can't accept this."
Ji-eun insisted, her voice kind but firm. "Don't be sorry. It wasn't your fault. Please, take it."
The maid looked up at Ji-eun, tears in her eyes, and took the handkerchief with trembling hands. "Thank you, my lady" she whispered, clearly overwhelmed by the unexpected kindness.
Ji-eun gave her a reassuring smile. "It's alright. Just take a moment to compose yourself. You're not in any trouble."
As Ji-eun left the balcony, she bumped into Duke Evan Celoius. His handsome face remained unimpressed as he looked down at her. "If you did that to get my attention, it's all pointless," he began, his tone condescending. "You should be doing something more productive instead of these pointless charades."
Cedric, who had just managed to extricate himself from the throng of curious nobles, saw Ji-eun's uncomfortable expression. He knew he should step in and help her.
Before Cedric could act, Ji-eun quickly bowed to Evan. "I don't like you anymore" she said firmly, her voice steady. "I'm sorry for everything I did to you." She turned and walked away briskly, leaving Evan standing there, surprised.
Evan watched her retreating figure and muttered…
Cedric, shaking his head, thought, Don't you. Don't you say it.
…"Interesting."
Cedric sighed, thinking, Do all the male leads have only one line?
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> 8th June
>
> Today, we visited a boutique to buy some new clothes. Clarissa's original taste was rather...unique. Her wardrobe tended to show a lot more of her body than Ji-eun is comfortable with. While we were browsing, we bumped into Duke Evan again. He claimed it was a coincidence, but I could tell it wasn't. This is his doing.
>
>
>
> Ji-eun expressed her discomfort with him to me but I noticed her glancing at him, mesmerized. Should I step in? Maybe? But it's her story, not mine. My primary concern is to ensure her safety and watch out for anything that might harm her.
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> 22nd July
>
> The maids and everyone in the estate seem to be able to interact with Ji-eun comfortably now. They even seem to like her more and more each day. She shows them kindness and empathy, which surprised many at first, but that's not the case anymore, except for the duke himself. Does he really not care about his daughter?
>
>
>
> The change in the estate is affecting her reputation too, thanks to her personal maid, Jen. Who can't seem to keep her mouth shut. At least what she's talking about is the good things Ji-eun does.
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>
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> But not before long, another rumor started. This time it's about the relationship between her and me—
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While Cedric was sitting and writing in front of a tea shop, he was suddenly grabbed and dragged into a nearby alley. Magic swords were pointed at him, and the man who had grabbed him was none other than Duke Evan, the male lead.
"Who are you really?" Evan demanded, his voice cold and hard. "I ran a background check on you and found nothing. Even the signature of King Alaric or whatever that name is, it doesn't even exist."
Cedric looked at him, weighing his options. He could respond nicely, which might lead to more suspicion, or he could act like a jerk, potentially pushing Evan closer to Ji-eun. If they ever got together, Ji-eun should thank him for that.
Making up his mind, Cedric smirked. "Does it matter who I am? What does it have to do with you, your grace? Isn't this what you wanted? For lady Clarissa to stop pursuing you. You've got that now. Why the sudden interest in her life?"
Evan's face twisted in fury, and he tried to attack Cedric, but then Ji-eun came out of the shop looking for Cedric. Seeing her, Evan quickly let go of Cedric and walked out of the alley.
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> 10th August
>
> Look at that, even after what Ji-eun claims what to be the meeting of the male lead and the female lead at the party a few days ago, he still shows his face around her. Evan keeps appearing at the estate, acting like he has something to discuss with the duke.
>
>
>
> While Evan keeps showing up, every gathering makes me notice something. Osiria, the supposed female lead, likes to act like the victim and seems eager to forgive Clarissa. Ji-eun doesn't seem to realize that Osiria is not as innocent as she thinks.
>
>
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> I'm pretty sure the rumor about me started with that Osiria woman.
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>
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> And another thing, I think we've strayed further and further away from the original plot. Part of me wants to go and end Osiria now, but Ji-eun still believes in that original storyline. Doesn't she see the way Evan rejected Orisia?
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> 26st December
>
> Another rumor has surfaced, saying that Clarissa is playing with both Duke Celious and Lord Fernsway's hearts. Sorry Delilah, but I'm borrowing your name for a bit.
>
>
>
> We've been pushing for workers' rights non-stop, and obviously, we can't avoid meeting Evan and the emperor. While Ji-eun is focused on making workers' lives fairer to prevent anyone from being taken advantage of like she was in her past life, I'm out here dealing with the rumors.
>
>
>
> It seems that the Osiria woman started the rumor again, but I don't think she realizes her mistake. Evan's name is also involved in this rumor, and while he doesn't seem to care much, he's clearly annoyed that these rumors also involve me. He seems to want me away from Ji-eun.
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>
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> And after many high society gatherings, Ji-eun has finally learned to act like a proper duke's daughter with appropriate etiquette. A lot of the ladies seem to be liking her now.
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>
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> 15th April
>
> Hunting event today. It’s been some time since I attended an event like this.
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> Last time I attended an event like this, it didn't go so well. And I don't think this one will go well either.
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>
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A few hours later, chaos erupted as monstrous creatures attacked the event. Right on cue, Cedric thought grimly. Ji-eun was clearly terrified, and who wouldn’t be after seeing these monsters? They were grotesque, with twisted limbs and snarling faces, their eyes glowing a menacing red.
Despite their fearsome appearance, the monsters weren’t particularly fast. Cedric quickly dispatched most of them, his sword slicing through their grotesque forms with practiced ease. The soldiers present also helped, but many of the participants were missing.
After ensuring the safety of those around, Cedric noticed Osiria had been in a safer location during the attack. Predictable. He then led a group of soldiers into the forest to find the other participants. They managed to locate most of them, but Duke Evan was still missing.
The soldiers, believing Evan was strong enough to defend himself, escorted the others back. Cedric pressed on deeper into the forest alone.
He found Evan surrounded by a group of assassins wearing magic suppression artifacts. Without hesitation, Cedric lunged forward, his sword piercing through one of the attackers. "Looks like you owe me your life now, Your Grace," Cedric remarked dryly.
Together, they fought off the remaining assassins. Cedric thought to himself, Even if the male lead wouldn’t die from something like this, having him owe me his life is not a bad card to have.
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> 19th August
>
> Ji-eun's taking hours dressing herself up, and as always, Evan is here.
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> He's been more lenient to me after the hunting event a few months ago, either he's seeing me in a better light or just doesn't like owing someone a favor.
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> I've got a solid lead now; the assassins were sent here last night. No one knows they are here. After Ji-eun goes to see Evan, I'm going to have some words with them. They can't escape from the storage room anyway since I've made sure to tie them up nicely.
>
>
>
> The rumors are still coming, but at this point, most people just brush them off as they have no real weight or any solid evidence. Some still bring them up since people like to gossip.
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> 4th September
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> Some rumors are straight-up accusing Ji-eun of things she didn't even do.
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>
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> At this point, that woman has gone too far. Even the other nobles don't believe these rumors.
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> She's demanding Clarissa be brought to court for... cheating? Ji-eun isn't even engaged to anyone.
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> And of course, Evan tries to use this to his gain. He suggests they make the engagement between them actually happen to combat the rumors. He even brought up a contract.
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>
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The court was abuzz with murmurs as Osiria stood at the center, her voice dripping with false accusations. Even the emperor, sitting on his grand throne, shook his head slightly, unable to believe the absurdity of the claims.
Suddenly, the large wooden doors of the courtroom creaked open, and all heads turned to see Cedric enter with purposeful strides. He ignored the whispers and gasps that followed his entrance, making his way to the center of the room.
"What's the meaning of this interruption?" the emperor demanded, though his voice lacked real anger, more curiosity and confusion.
Without a word, Cedric threw a small, shimmering magic ball onto the floor. The ball rolled a few feet before bursting into a projection of light. The court fell silent as the image became clear: Osiria, in a dark room, speaking with members of the assassin's guild.
The room watched in stunned silence as the projection played out. Osiria's voice was unmistakable as she ordered hit after hit on Clarissa, plotting with cold precision. The scene then shifted to her speaking conspiratorially with others about fabricating accusations against Clarissa.
Osiria's face drained of color. She stood frozen, her mind racing as she realized Cedric had been watching her all along. Whispers filled the room, growing louder with shock and disbelief. The emperor's face turned grim, his eyes narrowing at Osiria.
Before anyone could react, Osiria's panic turned to desperation. She pulled a hidden knife from her dress and sliced her palm, letting her blood drip onto the floor. The blood began to swirl and hiss, forming grotesque creatures that emerged from the crimson pool.
"So this is the so-called female lead Ji-eun believed in" Cedric thought, his hand already on his sword. He moved quickly, stepping between the creatures and the rest of the court.
The monsters were hideous, their twisted forms a nightmarish blend of claws, teeth, and sinew. The court erupted into chaos as nobles scrambled to get away. Cedric remained calm, his blade flashing in the light as he cut through the creatures with lethal precision.
Despite his efforts, one monster managed to slip past, making its way toward Ji-eun. Evan, seeing the danger, instinctively moved to protect her. He pushed Ji-eun aside just as the creature lunged, its claws sinking into his side. Evan fell to the ground, unconscious, blood seeping through his clothes.
Cedric's eyes darted to Evan. With a swift motion, he dispatched the creature before it could cause any more harm. The court guards rushed in to restrain Osiria, who struggled with wild eyes, but it was no use. The evidence against her was irrefutable, and her desperate actions had sealed her fate.
The emperor stood, his voice booming with authority. "Lady Larentor, you have betrayed this court and attempted murder. You will face justice for your crimes."
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Ji-eun sat beside Evan, who lay unconscious on the bed. Tears streamed down her face as she sobbed and prayed, her voice barely a whisper. "Please, wake up... Please, God, let him wake up..."
As she prayed, a soft light began to emit from her hands, casting a gentle glow over Evan. Slowly, his fingers began to twitch, a faint sign of life returning. Cedric watched from a distance, his eyes narrowing slightly. "What," he thought, "so she’s got holy power too? Wouldn't be surprised if there’s a god watching over her at this point."
Just as the thought crossed his mind, a voice came from behind him. "Did someone call for me?"
Cedric turned around to see a man with light blue hair and an innocent face standing in the room. The stranger smiled warmly. "I am Luminara, the god who watches over Ji-eun. I’m here to help."
Cedric stared at him, incredulous. Of course, there’s a god, he thought sarcastically. "Can you heal Evan?" he asked, hoping for a straightforward solution.
Luminara’s smile turned embarrassed. "I, uh, used all my power to transform into human form. I can’t use my powers right now."
"..."
"...?"
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"Hmph! Hmph!", the so-called god found himself tied up and gagged in the corner of the room. Cedric turned back to Ji-eun, his expression softening slightly. "Ji-eun, try praying again, like you did before."
Ji-eun nodded, her eyes still glistening with tears. She clasped her hands together and began to pray once more. The light flared from her hands again, brighter this time, enveloping Evan. Slowly, his eyes fluttered open, and he looked up at Ji-eun.
"Evan!" Ji-eun cried, hugging him tightly, tears of relief streaming down her face.
Cedric felt the need to give them privacy. He walked over to Luminara, grabbed him by the collar, and dragged him out of the room, leaving Ji-eun and Evan to their moment.
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A moment later, Ji-eun and Evan emerged from the room, holding hands. Their faces were a mix of relief and happiness. Ji-eun's eyes sparkled with tears of joy as she looked at Cedric.
"We talked," she confessed, her voice soft but clear. "I told Evan everything about my past life, about who I really am. And... he accepts me as I am."
Evan nodded, squeezing Ji-eun's hand gently. "She's the same person I’ve come to care about, no matter her past."
Cedric watched them, a genuine smile spreading across his face. "Looks like another world is done for me," he thought, feeling a sense of fulfillment. He was genuinely happy for both of them, knowing they had found acceptance and love in each other.
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Cedric stood on the balcony, gazing out at the world beyond as the ceremony inside continued. Through the open doors, he could see the Duke talking to Ji-eun, his expression proud, with a small bird perched on her shoulder. That bird was Luminara, the god of light, who had taken this form ever since the day Cedric had tied him up.
The soft hum of celebration drifted through the air. The evening breeze was cool and refreshing, a stark contrast to the lively warmth within.
Evan soon joined him, holding two glasses. He handed one to Cedric, who accepted it with a nod. "I suppose the groom is allowed to take a break from his own ceremony," Cedric remarked, a hint of amusement in his voice.
Evan chuckled. "The main part with the priest is already done. I think I can afford a few minutes." He paused, then added more seriously, "I'm sorry for how I treated you before. And thank you, truly."
Cedric shook his head, his expression calm. "It's fine. It was my goal from the start to see this through. Seeing both of you happy is enough for me."
Evan nodded, appreciating Cedric's words. "Well, the best man should accompany the groom back inside" he said with a smile.
Together, they walked back into the vibrant heart of the celebration, side by side.
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After the wedding ceremony. Cedric stepped into the rift, he braced himself for the familiar cold wind. Instead, he was met with the sensation of rain pouring down, soaking him to the bone. He found himself standing on a glassy path, rain pelting down from a dark, stormy sky. In front of him was a small shack, its wooden frame barely visible through the downpour.
Reaching into his pouche, Cedric felt the familiar vibration of the book. He pulled it out, the book remained unaffected by the rain. Its pages were clean and dry, untouched by the elements. As he opened it, the first page started a new chapter, naming the next protagonist.
The name written there was Clarissa Valemontane.