image [https://urogyn.sakura.ne.jp/images/2024-10-09chess1.png]
92）LUNA'S STORY
Sophia walked slowly, her gaze scanning the overgrown courtyard until she spotted Luna's body, lying peacefully a few meters away from Ronald. Her heart tightened. She knelt down beside Luna, took a deep breath, and gently grasped her hand. As she did, Luna’s memories began to flood her mind.
Luna was the daughter of a powerful corporate family, heiress to a vast industrial empire that had roots deep in Britain’s aristocracy. Her family had long controlled factories and businesses across the country, producing wealth and prestige for generations. However, behind the glittering facade of their success lay a dark secret. Luna’s ancestors had once been loyal followers of a witch, whom they called “Highness.” The Highness had granted them prosperity, but as time passed, greed overtook loyalty. The family grew to resent their dependence on the witch’s powers and, in an act of betrayal, orchestrated her downfall through a carefully planned witch trial, banishing her from their lands.
For generations, Luna’s family carried the weight of that betrayal, whispering the truth only in secret. They feared that one day, the Highness would return. So, in the shadows, they passed down a quiet command: if the Highness should ever reappear, their descendants must make amends and become her servants once more.
Though Luna was unaware of this history during her childhood, she often sensed an undercurrent of unease in her family. The factories grew, the wealth multiplied, but it came at a great human cost. Many workers were laid off to increase profits, and Luna, though still young, felt a deep discomfort with how her family's business was conducted.
The economic landscape shifted drastically after the global pandemic, with unemployment rates soaring, particularly among workers over 50. Many had chosen early retirement, but a significant number had been forced out, victims of a struggling job market and corporate downsizing. Luna’s family business was not immune to these trends, and she saw firsthand how their decisions hurt countless lives.
Then came the earthquakes, which dealt another devastating blow. Luna, who had always been treated as a sheltered heiress, was abruptly forced to confront the harsh realities of the world when she entered university. Her parents cut off her financial support, believing that it was time for her to stand on her own two feet. For the first time in her life, Luna had to fend for herself.
It was a shock. She had never held a part-time job or experienced the grind of earning her own money. But it was also liberating. Luna took up a series of odd jobs, navigating a world she had never known.
During this time, she met someone who would change her life—Sophia. The young woman who appeared mysteriously in her dreams, connected somehow to the witch trials Luna had learned about in secret family whispers. There was something about Sophia, something ancient and powerful. Luna grew convinced that Sophia might be the reincarnation of the very witch her ancestors had wronged.
At first, Luna approached Sophia out of curiosity, intrigued by the idea of the “Highness” returning. Their first meeting was coincidental, as they ended up working together at the same part-time job. But after getting to know Sophia, Luna found herself genuinely fascinated by her intelligence and strength. Sophia was no ordinary girl—she was sharp, resourceful, and, perhaps most importantly, a chess prodigy. Luna quickly realized that she wanted to be more than just friends with her. She wanted to serve Sophia, to somehow repay the debt her family owed.
Luna also met Bohn around this time. She had felt her luck change ever since meeting Sophia, and Bohn seemed to come into her life as a sign that she was on the right path. He was brilliant, like Sophia, and together, the three of them formed a close bond.
As Sophia held Luna’s hand, these memories played out in her mind, and she saw how deeply Luna had struggled with her family's legacy. Luna had wanted to make things right, to honor the silent promise her family had made long ago—to serve the Highness, to make amends.
Luna stirred beneath Sophia’s hand, her eyes fluttering open.
“Sophia?” she whispered, her voice soft and unsure. She blinked a few times, her vision clearing. “What happened? Is everyone okay?”
Sophia smiled warmly. “We’re all waking up, Luna. You’re safe now. We all are.”
Luna took a deep breath, her mind still heavy with the weight of her memories. She looked at Sophia and managed a weak smile. “Thank you, Sophia. I think… I think I’ve finally found where I belong.”
Sophia nodded. “We’ll talk more soon, Luna. For now, let’s get ready to go home.”
Luna sat up, rubbing her eyes as she took in the scene around her. The sense of peace was palpable. She had lived under the shadow of her family’s past for so long, but now, for the first time, she felt free.
Sophia stood and began to move toward the next figure lying in the vines.
image [https://urogyn.sakura.ne.jp/images/2024-10-09chess1.png]
93）BOHN’S STORY
Just a few steps away from where Luna had rested, Sophia found the body of Bohn. She knelt beside him, gently taking his hand as she had done with the others. As soon as her fingers touched his, memories of Bohn’s life flooded into her mind.
Bohn came from a long line of doctors. His family had been steeped in the medical profession for generations, each one proudly continuing the legacy. His great-grandfather had been a renowned physician, his grandfather a pioneer in diagnostics, and his father had established one of the most well-respected practices in Britain. The family's medical roots went even deeper, tracing back two hundred years to a time when one of Bohn’s ancestors studied medicine on the European continent, learning from a famous physician named Elizabeth—a woman who was said to be able to predict death with startling accuracy.
That physician, Elizabeth, had written many books on the subject, and her knowledge had left a profound mark on Bohn’s family. When they eventually relocated to Britain, their dedication to the medical field never wavered. In fact, Bohn’s family played a significant role in the establishment of one of the first hospices in the country.
Bohn grew up under immense pressure. His family’s philosophy was simple: a healthy body leads to a healthy mind. He was rigorously trained in swimming, rowing, horseback riding, and mountain climbing, all to ensure that he would one day be both a skilled physician and an athlete, someone who could withstand the mental and physical demands of the medical field.
But Bohn wasn’t sure he wanted to follow in the family tradition. Something in him rebelled against the idea of becoming just another doctor. It was during this time of uncertainty that he discovered the writings of Professor Weiss. The world of medical science and biotechnology opened up before him, offering a new way to think about medicine. It was a world filled with cutting-edge research, and it excited him in ways traditional medicine never had.
That was when he met Sophia. The first time he saw her, he was reminded of the stories his family had told—stories about Elizabeth, the brilliant physician from his ancestor's past, whom they had referred to as "Highness." The resemblance was uncanny, and something about Sophia felt eerily familiar. Bohn couldn’t help but wonder if Sophia was somehow connected to that long-lost part of his family’s history.
As Sophia listened to Bohn’s memories, she understood the weight of the legacy he carried. His family had played a role in the persecution of a witch, much like Luna's had. And now, like Luna, Bohn had found a way to make amends. His bond with Sophia wasn’t just intellectual—it was a way to right the wrongs of the past.
Sophia felt Bohn stir beneath her hand. His eyes opened slowly, and he blinked up at her in confusion.
“Sophia?” he murmured. “Is it over?”
Sophia smiled gently. “Yes, Bohn. It’s over. You’re safe now.”
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Bohn sat up, rubbing his face as the memories of the battle began to fade. He looked around, spotting Luna and the others. “We made it…”
Sophia nodded. “We did. Thanks to all of us, we’re going home.”
Bohn let out a breath of relief, and for the first time in a long while, he felt at peace.
image [https://urogyn.sakura.ne.jp/images/2024-10-09chess1.png]
94）ELENA'S STORY
Sophia moved carefully through the overgrown courtyard, her heart heavy as she approached another still figure lying beneath the tangled vines. It was Elena. Kneeling beside her, Sophia gently took her hand, bracing herself for the flood of memories that would soon follow.
Elena’s father had once worked closely with Professor Weiss, serving as a lecturer in his renowned research lab. The professor, though brilliant in his own right, had developed cutting-edge innovations in aerospace medicine—advances that, much to his dismay, were ultimately used in warfare. The realization that his research had been twisted into tools of destruction haunted the professor deeply. He carried the weight of that regret for the rest of his life.
Desperate to atone for his unintended role in the violence, Professor Weiss shifted his research focus to more peaceful endeavors. But Elena’s father, caught in the competitive pressures of the academic world, pushed forward, seeking to continue the professor’s legacy. He worked tirelessly, despite the risks, to publish more papers, knowing that academic success was measured by the number of publications. The fewer papers a researcher produced, the less recognition they received. Without recognition, funding dried up. Without funding, their work—and livelihood—was at risk.
The professor warned him repeatedly. "Slow down. You’re taking too many risks," he’d said. But Elena’s father couldn’t afford to stop. His career was hanging in the balance.
Then, one fateful day, the accident happened.
The professor had been right, and the tragedy that followed devastated him. He grieved deeply for Elena’s father, who had become more than just a colleague—a close friend. To make matters worse, the professor couldn’t help but feel partially responsible for pushing Elena’s father into that dangerous path.
Out of guilt and a sense of duty, Professor Weiss took it upon himself to care for Elena. He became her guardian, raising her as his own. He provided for her education and well-being, establishing the "Elena Scholarship," a fund he gathered through modern-day crowdfunding, long before it became a trend. The professor’s heart was heavy with the past, but his devotion to Elena was pure. In his eyes, she was like a daughter, and through her, he hoped to find redemption.
For Elena, Professor Weiss was not just a mentor—he was the father she had lost. And as for Sophia, she was more than just a fellow student. Sophia had become like a younger sister, a bond forged not only through shared experiences but through the professor’s love for them both.
Elena’s body had been fragile as a child, weakened by stress and grief. But after meeting Sophia, everything began to change. Sophia’s magical abilities, unbeknownst to most, had a remarkable effect on Elena’s health. Her bone marrow, once weak and fragile, was revitalized. Elena grew taller, stronger, more athletic. Her newfound strength allowed her to excel in sports, and her beauty became the subject of admiration. Men were drawn to her, though she had little interest in their attention.
Despite all the eyes on her, Elena’s heart had always belonged to one person—Sophia. From the moment they met, Elena felt an unshakable bond, something deeper than friendship. But Professor Weiss, ever watchful, knew that this connection placed a strain on Elena’s still-maturing body. Worried for her health, he kept the two apart for a time, knowing that the magical influence could be too much for Elena.
But as the years passed and both girls grew older, things changed. Once they were in university, the barriers that had kept them apart vanished. One day, Elena heard that Sophia had enrolled in South College, and her heart raced with anticipation. Finally, after all this time, they could be together again.
Their reunion came during a polo match. When a stray ball flew dangerously toward Sophia, Elena didn’t hesitate for a second. She threw herself in harm’s way, protecting Sophia with all the strength she had gained over the years. And in that moment, as Sophia looked up at her in surprise, Elena knew she had found her place once more—by Sophia’s side, where she belonged.
Sophia squeezed Elena’s hand as the memories flowed between them, feeling the deep love and loyalty that Elena had always held for her. Through all the trials and separation, Elena had never wavered. Her fierce determination to protect Sophia had shaped her into the warrior she had become.
Elena’s eyes fluttered open, and for a moment, she seemed disoriented. Then, as her gaze settled on Sophia, a familiar warmth spread across her face.
"Sophia," she whispered, her voice soft but steady. "You’re safe."
Sophia smiled, her own heart full of relief and gratitude. "We’re all safe, thanks to you, Elena."
Elena sat up slowly, still processing the events that had led them here. "I waited so long for this," she murmured, her fingers tightening slightly around Sophia’s hand. "I always knew we’d find our way back to each other."
Sophia nodded, her heart swelling with affection. "We always do. And now, it’s time to go home. Together."
Elena smiled, the strength returning to her body as she stood up beside Sophia. She looked around at the others, her family in this strange and magical journey, and for the first time in a long while, she felt whole.
The two of them stood there for a moment longer, the bond between them stronger than ever, before turning toward the next still figure lying in the vines.
image [https://urogyn.sakura.ne.jp/images/2024-10-09chess1.png]
95) THE AWAKENING OF ALEX
Sophia knelt beside Alex, her heart pounding as she grasped his hand. The commander of their group had given his all in this dangerous chess game, guiding them with determination. As her fingers intertwined with his, a flood of emotions rushed through her, overwhelming her senses.
Her cheeks flushed red.
She could feel the intensity of Alex's feelings—his dedication, his unwavering focus on protecting everyone, and something more. A deep, sincere affection for her, one he had kept hidden behind his role as a leader. His thoughts, always so composed, now revealed the vulnerable truth of his emotions. Sophia found herself both flattered and flustered.
Sophia leaned in closer, her voice soft yet firm, “Alex, wake up.”
Alex stirred, his eyelids fluttering open as he saw Sophia's concerned face hovering above him. He smiled, relief flooding through him. “Thank you… you came for me,” he said, his voice raspy but full of gratitude.
Sophia squeezed his hand, trying to keep her own emotions steady. “I need you to help guide everyone to the hovercraft, Alex. Can you do that?”
He sat up slowly, looking around at the scattered members of their team, each lying in different parts of the clearing. One by one, they were stirring, waking up from the ordeal they had been through.
Alex nodded, pulling himself to his feet. “Everyone, gather around! We’re heading out!” His voice carried authority, the kind that brought immediate comfort and order.
He began taking roll call.
“Nyra!”
A voice called back, still a bit groggy. “Here!”
“Ophelia!”
“Present!” came the response, a little stronger.
“Bohn!”
“Yes, I’m here,” Bohn said, shaking off the remnants of sleep.
“Luna!”
“Here!” she answered, her usual brightness starting to return.
“Ronald!”
“Yeah, I’m here,” Ronald said with a determined nod.
Then Alex’s eyes landed on Sophia. “And Sophia?”
Sophia smiled and nodded. “Yes.”
Alex’s simple act of calling out their names, his familiar role as their leader, brought a sense of unity and courage back to the group. They were ready to move.
Sophia took a deep breath, her expression growing more serious. “Alex… I need to find Ardy. I can't leave without him.”
Alex’s eyes darkened as he looked at her. “Sophia, we’ll all go together, but I can’t let you do this alone.”
“No,” she said firmly. “I need you to lead them to the hovercraft. I’m trusting you to get everyone out safely. If… if I don’t come back in time, you need to leave without me.”
Alex’s jaw tightened. He shook his head. “I can’t do that, Sophia. We all get out together or not at all. I’ll help you find Ardy. He was with me before, so he must be close.”
Sophia looked away, her heart aching. “He’s not here anymore. He’s been in the mist for too long… he might already be awake, wandering. I’m afraid he’s… lost.”
Alex took a step closer, his voice low but full of conviction. “Then we’ll find him together. You’ve led us this far, Sophia. I’m not leaving without you or Ardy.”
Their eyes met, and for a moment, Sophia hesitated. Alex's determination was unbreakable, and she realized she couldn't talk him out of it.
She nodded, feeling a mix of relief and dread. “Alright… let's go.”
But there was a tension in the air, something unspoken between them. Sophia knew the risk of what they were about to do, and so did Alex. But neither was willing to back down. They had come too far, and their mission wasn’t over yet.
As they prepared to head into the mist once more, Alex turned to the group. “Stay close. We’ll be back soon. If we don’t return… you know what to do.”
The group nodded, though their faces were filled with uncertainty.
Sophia glanced back at Alex, a silent understanding passing between them. They were in this together now, and nothing would stop them from finding Ardy—even if it meant risking everything.
Alex held Sophia’s hand for just a moment longer, his eyes searching hers. He didn’t want to let go. But he had to. He was the leader, and the others needed him.
Without a word, he released her hand, the weight of the decision pressing on his chest.
“I’ll get them to the hovercraft,” he said, his voice quiet but firm. “You go find Ardy.”
Sophia nodded, understanding his unspoken emotions.
“Thank you,” she whispered.
Alex took one last look at her, then turned to the group. “Everyone, follow me. Stay close.”
And with that, he led them away, leaving a part of himself behind with Sophia.