You wake up from the dream. Today is a holiday, a free day from school.

You get excited that something interesting might happen today, thus you get dressed and leave your room.

Your mother and the servant are nowhere to be found. Perhaps they are still sleeping, you figure.

Because of that you decide that you will be the one that will make breakfast today.

First you try to start a fire in the fireplace, but it’s going to take a while before the temperature rises.

In the meantime you search for ingredients in the kitchen, and you find eggs, bread rolls and milk.

“Good morning young madam.” You hear a voice from behind.

“Good morning Emmi.” You respond turning around

You see Emmi, your maid, who also woke up early. Actually, isn’t that normal for her, you ponder.

She walks towards you, yawning, observing your work, then stops when she comes close.

“Are you trying to make breakfast young madam?” She asks you.

“Isn’t that obvious? Of course I’m making breakfast here.” You reply.

“I advise you not to.” Emmi says while hiding her yawn

“Why?” You tilt your head.

“Because first you should wait for everyone to wake up.” She says. “And second, a young madam shouldn’t involve herself with housework.”

You are then excused from the work in the kitchen, as Emmi looks inside of the fireplace.

“But I want to help. Isn’t there anything else?” You ask while looking around

“Not particularly anything that needs your attention, young madam.” She explains.

“How about I take care of the yard? There are leaves everywhere.” You suggest.

“I would not be in favour of that decision.” She shakes her head.

“Yes, I’m going to do that anyway. Is that okay Emmi?” You query.

“No, but if that is young madam’s wish I won’t oppose.” The maid shrugs.

You put on a coat and start sweeping the leaves outside, near the entrance, gathering them into heaps.

These would later be used as fuel for the fire, Emmi mentioned.

The breeze is cold, but gentle. You can hear roosters doing their morning cock-a-doodle-doo.

Although you shiver a little, having a small body helps since it’s easier to heat up.

You do your job diligently, like a good child, until the sun raises a little on the clear sky.

“This should be enough? I suppose sweeping them all would be unreasonable.” You voice to yourself out loud.

As you say that, you hear someone knocking on the window. It’s Emmi of course.

She beckons that you return home quickly, since you might catch a cold or something.

After you finish the task outside, you decide to go back inside, and the difference in temperature makes you shiver.

Immediately after you enter, the maid rubs your body with a warm blanket.

It's probably easy to get cold with a weather like this, you assume.

After putting your coat back on the hanger you take off your boots, and see that your mother is still not awake.

This means you have to find another way to spend time.

You decide to go into your room and explore it a bit. After all, you never had a chance before.

There are various things in there that you don’t know you had, like a comb or a stuffed doll.

In the cupboards you discover various family treasures filled with memories.

You, of course, don’t have any sentimental connection to them, but at least you can imagine.

After a while you decide to turn your attention towards the desk.

Various school books, picture books and journals stacked on top for each other.

There is plenty for you to read through, you deduce. The ones you are interested in are the ones on spirits.

You recall seeing the fire spirit book at some point in your room. You decide to look for it, and read it.

“Spirits are being that exist within this world…” You Read.

“Their nature is that of soul. They are alive in the same sense as humans are.” You learn.

“Every season they die and are reborn during Galnova.” You discover.

“They are also responsible for various miracles…” You continue.

“Incidents happen often involving humans and spirits…” And read…

“Fire spirits are guardians of house fire…” And read more...

The book contains various sightings and opinions of so called "experts".

Apparently, once you become a medium, your opinion matters a lot more.

But on the other hand, those pictures and testimonies look a little bit overdrawn.

You get the feeling that this book was designed for little kids, to make them interested in the world.

None of this information you find is useful. You decide to put down the book in your hands.

“Young madam, can I come in?” A voice calls to your attention.

“Of course Emmi.” You respond.

Emmi knocks at your door. You answer and it seems that it is finally time for breakfast.

That's the one thing you were looking forward to all this morning.

As you walk down the corridor, you find your mother already sitting on her chair.

You decide to greet her and join her. Emmi does the same and the three of you begin your breakfast.

“Good morning mother.” You say.

“Good morning darling. Did you sleep well today?” She asks you.

“I woke up a little early, but I do feel rested.” You answer.

“I’m glad to hear that. Also Emmi, how about you?” She turns to the maid.

“Young madam was reading a book in her room.” Emmi informs.

“I see. Well then, shall we?” Your mother picks up her utensils.

The meal is easier to chew than your last breakfast at least.

You are glad you allowed your maid to do the cooking.

“So what kind of book? You do like stories, don’t you darling?” She asks you.

“Actually, it was a book on fire spirits mother.” You clarify.

“Oh, that kind of book? I guess it’s good to put a child to sleep, but you are older now.” Your mother tells you as if she was giving you a warning.

“Really? I presume me reading it any further would not be practical then.” You voice.

“However, it might be worth as heat source, it is a book on fire spirits after all.” She points out.

Your mother voices her concern about your interest in the book, or at least spirits.

She must have some kind of reason why she isn’t encouraging your interest.

Whenever it is the fact that she doesn’t believe in spirits, or the concern for you becoming a spirit medium,

you don’t know. However, you promise your mother that it was just a children's book,

that you simply felt a little curious and read it to return the past a little.

“Well mother, the truth is that I was cleaning up in my room. I found that book and…” You explain.

“Just by chance? I would be a waste just to throw it away.” Your mother suggests.

“I do agree, mother. I’m just explaining that I felt a little nostalgic, that’s all.” You continue.

“If that’s the case darling and I will speak no more.” She tells you.

You talk with your mother about today, if you have any plans.

You don't, but you certainly don't want to stay at home for the rest of the day.

“Besides that mother, I want to know if you have any plans for today.” You inform.

“Why is that darling?” She asks.

“I’m just curious.” You explain.

“Oh…” Your mother discovers.

“Actually, I correct. I wish I had something planned ahead, but I don’t.” You tell her.

“I see. But that’s fine darling. You can stay home.” She comforts you.

“I’m going to the library.” Suddenly Emmi mentions.

You turn to Emmi with surprise. What kind of books does she want to read, you ponder.

Naturally she doesn't have much free time for herself, and she spends her day usually at home.

You also recall that there is a library, next to the church, thus you ask her if it will be okay for the three of you to go together.

“Then how about we go to the church today together?” You propose.

“Yes darling, I suppose that is acceptable.” Your mother agrees.

“Since today is a holiday after all.” The maid adds.

“Right, thank you Emmi.” Your mother nods.

“You’re welcome madam.” Emmi bows towards her mistress.

With your mother's approval, you explain that you are also interested in the library.

Perhaps you could find some interesting books, you figure. Therefore, the three of you get ready.

You go to your room, open your wardrobe and find a suitable dress for the mass.

You decide that since Emmi is helping your mother to dress up, you will do that by yourself today.

All you have to do really is to try to put on the corset yourself, you think.

“Ugh.” You let out.

It is much more difficult to do it yourself, than with the help of your maid.

Especially diminishing to your success if the fact is that you lack the strength to pull the strings and hold them until you tie them securely.

However, you try and try and you eventually succeed all on your own.

You save yourself the embarrassment of Emmi helping you out after all those attempts.

You are ready and dressed, as you look at yourself in the mirror. Everything appears to be in place.

After a little adjustments and final touches you decide to leave your room.

As the clock in the hallway shows 7:40 am, you three leave for the church.

The journey takes you a while, but you arrive at the village in time.

Many people, mainly the older folks, gather slowly inside of the church.

They sit near the entrance, while more wealthy and young sit in the front.

Your mother and Emmi lead you in one of the front rows.

Knowing that your family is probably the wealthiest in this village,

you try to avoid the gaze of peasants looking at you.

“Goddess, let there be blessing for those in need…” The priest prays.

The mass commence, and the priest enters the altar.

With others, you stand up and pray, or at least try to repeat the words you hear.

The entire mass takes about an hour and it's uneventful.

Luckily, after the priest says his blessing, you are left to go.

Emmi planned to come to the library and that's where you want to go as well.

“So Emmi, you wanted to visit the library right?” You ask while walking out of the church.

“That is correct young madam.” She answers.

“What about you Mother? What are you planning to do?” You pose a question.

“I would say I need to talk to someone. Thus, I will be leaving you darling for the time being.” She looks at Emmi.

“Of course madam. You can depend on me.” The maids assures her mistress.

“Remember to enjoy your holiday darling.” Your mother turns to you.

“I will mother.” You promise.

You part ways with your mother and arrive with Emmi at the small hut on the side of the church courtyard.

This place is as close as it gets to a library in this village, you sigh.

It presents itself as a wooden shack which somehow is still standing.

The rundown door is shut closed, as it is quite chilly outside.

You decide to knock on the door to see if anyone is inside.

“Just a moment!” You hear from a distance.

The girl appears from somewhere behind the church.

You recognize her as Acculina, the girl you met at school.

She is wearing a dress that resembles a nun habit and a mob cap.

As you recall, she is an orphan that lives in the church, and that explains why she is dressed like that.

In exchange for helping out the priest, she receives bread and shelter.

One of her responsibilities must be maintaining the library, you deduct.

“Good morning Pyrie! Feeling like visiting me on holiday?” She asks excitedly.

“I would like to visit the library here. You must be the keeper, yes?” You query.

“Of course, the old man would be upset if I didn’t do my job.” She explains.

“Then go ahead.” You say while making way for Acculina.

She bows to you and Emmi and unlocks the door with a huge brass key.

Inside you find straits that lead down, some book shelves and a table with a lamp in the middle.

Acculina moves on ahead and lights up the room. It's still dark, but at least you can see the floor.

Then the nun-like girl asks you what kind of books you and Emmi are interested in.

“I’m looking for something specific. If you could excuse me, young madam.” Emmi says and disappears from your sight.

“Of course, go ahead and pick whatever you fancy. How about you, miss?” Acculina turns towards you.

“Me? I suppose I’m new. Do you have any suggestions?” You ask her.

“Like follow your heart? Don’t miss your opportunity?” She jests.

“Excuse me, I meant book recommendations.” You correct yourself.

As soon as Emmi enters, she already knows what she wants to read.

She goes straight for the furthest book shelf and picks a few tomes for herself.

As for you, you are not sure what kind of book you should be renting.

You scan over cover after cover, but it’s hard for you to find something interesting, thus Emmi,

noticing that you are taking your time while curiously looking through the books,

decides that she will head back home in the meantime, eager to read the books she found.

“I will be waiting outside young madam.” She whispers to your ear.

“Are you going home?” You whisper her back.

“Yes…” She timidly confesses.

“That’s fine.” You sigh.

“I wouldn’t want to interrupt young madam’s time with friends.” She explains.

“Fair enough.” You nod.

She bows gently and leaves you alone with Acculina in the study.

You didn't notice it before, but it seems that the sapphire eyed girl wants to talk to you about something.

She startles you when you put your finger on a romance novel and drop the book unintentionally.

Acculina picks it up for you, and pushes it onto your hand.

“You need to be careful not to break any books here.” She warns you.

“I’m sorry, you surprised me.” You apologise.

“They are full of love, like people’s hearts.” The nun-like girl explains.

“People’s hearts…” You ponder.

You think for a while, and discover the connection between breaking and hearts.

Admiring her brisk and brilliant thinking, you find yourself unable to do anything,

but to feel a little weird. Her hand rubs against yours a little as she holds the book together with you.

“This novel is called The Blind Flower. It is about a love that can’t be seen.” Acculina continues explaining. “I’m sure you will find it most interesting Pyrie.”

“I will take notice of that endorsement.” You forcibly pull the book from her hand.

Being knowledgeable about that particular book, she tries to recommend you reading it.

She must have read it herself multiple times already, and she is very eager to tell you about her impressions, you figure.

Suddenly, you find yourself sandwiched between her taller posture and the bookshelf,

unable to do anything but blush. You want to say something, but the words don’t come out.

“So anything else you want? I have all day.” She asks you calmly.

“I think I will just stick to this one for now.” You explain.

“You do? You were looking for a book back at school the other day.” She says.

“I guess that’s true.” You say while looking at the bookshelves.

“You are really into books huh?” She says appearing in your view.

“Perhaps that is right? I am not sure.” You clarify.

You try to share your enthusiasm with her, promising that you will read it someday.

This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

As you do so, she finally steps back and lets you breathe a little.

Letting out a sigh, you notice that this wasn't really what she wanted to talk about.

The real topic Acculina wanted to inquire about was Minorta.

“You know, I like books too, but I also like people.” The nun-like girl tells you.

“I know.” You nod.

“Especially good friends, like Minorta.” She says.

“Are you friends with her?” You ask her.

“Of course! Ever since yesterday I was worried about her!” She expresses.

It is true that you can't say everything that happened between you and Minorta,

after the miracle happened, you concur.

This would lead to a much more awkward situation between the two of you.

She is your close friend after all, the only other person that knows about spirits.

Additionally, you have the feeling that Acculina is going to relate everything to other girls at school.

Since you have to be careful with words, you decide that it would be best if you just say what everyone knows.

“Well a lot of things happened yesterday. I’m not quite sure where to start. ”You explain.

“Like when she showed up at the funeral?” She asks you.

“Right, that is true.” You answer.

“Like when she told her story about the spirit?” She further asks you.

“That’s also true…” You admit.

“Like when you escorted her to her house?” She gets a little excited.

“We are friends after all.” You wave your hand for her to calm down.

The truth is that you are simply good friends.

You decide retain the information about what you two talked about,

and that alone appears to be enough for Acculina.

After she calms down and stops asking you questions, she starts to explain her reason.

“Well as long as she says so then I must agree too.” She admits.

“You are worried about her, aren’t you?” You ponder out loud.

“Of course I’m worried about my friend!” She confesses.

“Then don’t worry so much.” You advise her.

She was simply concerned about the priest and sister talking about this in secret.

She explains that she stumbled upon that conversation while she was passing through the hallway and decided to listen to it in secret.

“Right, I will do that. But first, I will tell you something.” She comes close and whispers to your ear. “I heard all that happened from the priest here.”

“How come?” You ask curiously.

“Since I was lucky to hear a thing or two, but don’t mention it okay? Sister will get mad at me.” She pleads. “That’s why I was worried, you understand right?”

“Of course.” You nod.

You recall that during the funeral the priest told everyone to keep silent about the events that occurred.

Naturally, everyone in the village knows about it now, you tell yourself.

It is probably the number one topic people are discussing and spreading.

Since you heard it from Acculina, you know it's unavoidable, there are going to be some consequences.

“But, you know Acculina, even though everyone knows it already, do keep it a secret okay? ”You plead to her.

“Of course, the information with me is like the books in this library.” She assures you.

“That’s reassuring. Thank you.” You bow.

“You sound like you don’t trust me even a bit!” She says, upset a little.

“I’m just worried about her, that’s all.” You restate with a more serious face.

You tell her to keep silent too, that she shouldn't talk about that with anyone.

But even with your serious face, it doesn't appear as if she was really listening to you.

You pick up the books you decided to rent and wrap them in paper.

With the small package in your hands, you tell the Acculina that you are done.

She puts out the lamp, locks the door after you exit the building and sends a wink at you as her goodbye.

“I will be seeing you later.” She waves at you as you part ways.

“Very well. Goodbye Acculina.” You wave at her.

You decide to head back home. However, on your way back you pass through the matter and meet Ellien.

She seems to not be noticing you while talking to a merchant.

However, you also spot some people looking at her from time to time.

They must be thinking about her father, but they don't know what to say exactly.

You decide that it would be fine at the very least to greet her.

You drop your curtsy with one hand, while holding the books with the other.

“Good day Ellien. It’s nice to meet you here.” You say gracefully.

“Oh Pyrie! What a coincidence really!” She replies surprised.

“Indeed it is.” You nod.

“Are you running an errant anything? And what is that you’re carrying?” She looks at your hands.

“These? Those are the books from the library.” You explain.

She showed interest in your books, you notice, but that’s because she is concerned about something,

and asked you about your package to redirect her attention from thinking about it.

Thus you decide to insist that you can help her at least carry the groceries back home.

But there might be another reason why she is a little hesitant today.

“What about me? I’m just buying groceries here.” She clarifies.

“I can help you carry them home, if you want.” You suggest.

“I rather not, but thanks for the help.” She replies a little worried.

That's right, not only she is getting unwanted attention,

she also doesn't want you to see her being in poverty, you notice.

In this situation you decide that you will pay for the things Ellien brought and give her a little extra from yourself.

You reach out to your pockets, take out a small purse and hand out the merchant his coins.

“I will pay for this.” You tell the merchant.

“Okay miss.” The shopkeeper replies.

“No wait, you really shouldn’t…” Ellien worries.

“I think I will take this as well.” You add.

“Pyrie, please.” She pleads.

“Yes miss. Here’s a garlic for you as a present.” The shopkeeper asks.

“Umm…” You don’t reply with words to the shopkeeper’s gesture.

Ellien, who is both shocked and moved, doesn't know what to say exactly.

Instead her legs make sound, as she grabs you by the hand and runs away.

You both leave the market and look around. As there is no one else following, you both stop.

After she catches her breath, she decides to speak with you calmly.

“Did you really have to do that Pyrie?” She asks you with slight anger.

“I apologise of course, but isn’t this your doing Ellien? You wanted to run away.” You articulate.

“Yes but…” She pauses for a moment. “I suppose you are right, I overreacted.”

“But do please think that your action wasn’t wrong either. I would have done the same thing.” You plead to her.

The two of you have a moment of silence, looking at each other. The baggage becomes a little heavy,

Thus you decide it would be for the best if you started moving.

“Anyway, I’m going back home. Thanks for everything Pyrie.” She bows to you.

“What if I went with you? I would feel bad for having you carry everything, since I bought extra.” You suggest.

“That wouldn’t be necessary, but I guess you are right. Here, let’s carry this one together.” She grabs one side of the bag you were carrying.

You walk slowly towards Ellien house, helping her carry the food for her.

She explains that she wanted to buy some herbs for her father.

Ever since he returned, his condition has worsened.

It's not as bad as from the time the spirit visited him, but he is still no shape to work on the field.

That's also why Ellien didn't want to involve anyone else, you realize.

"This smells a little strange.” You mention while carrying a heavy load.

“It’s herbs for my father.” Your friend explains.

“Wouldn’t you rather want medicine?” You propose gasping.

“This is what I can afford.” She says while catching her breath.

You tell her if you knew, you would have bought medicine instead, but she rebukes,

saying that a hot pea soup and the brew from the herbs are more than enough.

Your personal opinion is different, you feel like medicine would be the right choice here.

Though, you decide that it's best not to argue with her. Instead you are being supportive of her decision.

“Anyway, those pharmaceuticals aren’t that great.” Your friend grumbles.

“I reckon so. They probably taste awful.” You add.

“It’s better just to stick to old things that worked in the past.” She states.

“If you say so Ellien.” You sigh.

“It’s true! You never caught a cold Pyrie?” She tilts her face.

“I did, but my mother doesn’t cook.” You explain.

After a while, you leave the village, walk over a bridge, and arrive at Ellien’s home.

It’s nothing out of the ordinary. You have your chickens, your cows, your fence.

The building itself is made of basic materials and looks in a poor state.

You are surprised that someone is able to live inside of a house with holes which are plugged by cloth.

“Well here we are.” She announces.

“Thank you for leading me here.” You express your thanks.

“Of course Pyrie.” She bows to you. “Can you wait one minute?”

“If you wish so, absolutely.” You bow to her back.

Before you are allowed in, Ellien takes your groceries and enters.

You can hear the sound of sweeping from the outside.

After a brief moment, the door opens and you see a friend beckoning you to enter.

Surprisingly you don't see any designated space for you to leave your shoes,

she only asks you to wipe them on the carpet and enter.

As you do, you notice that her house looks just as bad from the inside.

The rooms are few, and there are holes in the floor that are covered with wood plants.

Grabbing your hand, she leads you to his father, but she keeps the door closed.

That's because she doesn't want you to become sick as well, you figure.

“Papa, this is Pyrie my friend.” Ellien tells her father.

“Why did you bring her?” He asks her.

“I guess she wanted to come.” She explains.

“I told you not to bring friends!” He raises his voice.

“I know, but she helped me carry the groceries.” She explains.

“Well that’s fine.” He calms down.

You greet Ellien's father on the other side of the wall,

you can only see his silhouette through the door's window.

“It’s a pleasure, my name is Pyrecilla Abronova.” You tell him.

“Huh? That Abronova?” She asks suddenly.

“Yes, I presume you know about my mother.” You add.

“Yes, cough cough… I do.” He forces out of his throat

His voice seems quite frail, you worry, but you wish him well.

In the living room, sitting near the fireplace you can see Ellien's brother,

who should be leaving tomorrow, and her grandparents. You greet them as well.

“That Abronova? I guess my granddaughter knows who to make friends with.” Her grandmother says.

“There is nothing amazing about it.” Ellien replies.

“Don’t say that. You shouldn’t be so modest.” Her grandfather adds.

“Yes, hello everyone.” You bow down.

“Okay that’s enough.” Ellien states.

Ellien, annoyed by her family butting in, takes you by the hand and leads you to her room.

It's a very cramped space, there are only two beds and chests filled with clothes.

As you enter and sit down on the bed, Ellien closes the door behind her and positions herself on the opposite bed.

“That’s where you sleep Ellien?” You ask curiously.

“That’s right, but this bed is usually free.” She tells you.

“I understand it’s quite cramped.” You observe while sitting down.

“Not when you get used to it, no.” She says while getting comfortable.

Ellien tells you about how she feels, her worries startle you.

“Also getting used to the… that is quite hard.” She tells you while looking somewhere else.

“I understand, I can only imagine how you feel.” You try to consult her.

There is hardly anyone you know that went through something like that, you nod.

Her father first died, then revived, then everyone started to look at her family with contempt.

At least that's the impression you got from today’s incident at the market.

In this situation you want to support her, but you can't find the right words to ease her anxious soul.

“You know, perhaps I don’t know what you have been through.” You say and continue. “Perhaps I’m going only to hurt you further, but I want to understand.”

“Yes… My father died and then came back. That alone anyone can tell.” She says.

“But if that’s so, shouldn’t you be happy? Not only for yourself but for your father as well.” You further explain.

“To be happy for them?” She tilts her head.

The real reason she is worried is whenever she should accept that her father is now alive.

She already said her goodbyes, everyone did. And now, everything has changed.

Is it okay to accept this reality? That's the question she is asking you.

“Well you can’t change what has been done now. I’m sure people will tell you that you are wrong, that your father is not really alive.” You say with a heavy heart. “But does that matter? Do you feel like others are able to tell you better how you feel?”

“Others are important, what they say and how they think… but I guess you are right.” Ellien speaks with a feeble voice. “But even if they are unreasonable, what makes you think that you are right?”

“Who is really right or wrong?” You speak.

Obviously you don't have an answer for that question, neither does Ellien or Minorta.

No matter what knowledge you possess, the experience of this is unique only to Ellien.

You both look at the ground silent, thinking deeply, looking for the solution.

After a while she also realizes that she pushed herself onto you forcibly, and apologise for saying too much.

“I knew I shouldn’t have spoken to you. I’m sorry.” Your friend tells you.

“It is understandable that you felt worried, Ellien.” You respond.

“But I made you concerned for no reason.” She explains.

“I also should apologise for not being able to help you.” You bow down.

“It’s fine, I’m sorry too!” She does a deeper bow than you.

Your understand that you are the only person that she can really talk with,

because she is not really that close to her brother, while her grandparents treat her like a child still.

You put your delicate hand on her shoulder and come close to her side.

Your body swifts towards her, and eventually her shoulder becomes soft.

She takes her hands, embraces you and forces you to collapse on the bed with her.

You can hear her silently sobbing echoing in your ears.

“Can you… please stop? ”She pleads to you.

“It’s okay Ellien. I’m here for you.” You tell her.

“You are... making this awkwardly difficult.“ She replies.

“You have no one else you can be this close with.” You further explain.

“That’s…” She voices.

“I will hold onto…”

You repeat that line

It's about time you would return to reality, your stomach tells you.

You haven't eaten dinner yet. Some time passed since you went outside,

and now you wonder if it would be fine if you ate with Ellien's family.

“Right, there is still dinner. I forgot!” She jumps out of the bed.

“Yes, I guess we can’t stay like this forever.” You stand up as well.

“Um, I’m sorry Pyrie. I used too much of your time.” She apologises again.

“It is fine Ellien, I enjoyed it. Moreover, I’m hungry too.” You explain.

“No, that’s too much. I should really…” She responds with unease.

Though initially against it, she eventually agrees to your idea.

However, there is an hour until dinner, so the two of you decide to spend time together.

Ellien shows you her books, her toys, her things and various treasures.

It's nothing special and she is still embarrassed about her poverty, but you manage to make her smile with a joke.

Afterwards you both play various games and time passes fast.

“Dinner!” You hear from the outside.

“Okay, I’m coming.” Your friend responds.

“Are you really okay with me staying Ellien?” You ask.

“I can’t refuse, not at this point I guess. Come.” She reaches her hand to you.

You travel towards the kitchen and sit down next to Ellien in the kitchen.

Her brother helps pass out the plates and utensils while her grandmother passes the soup.

Everyone thanks the Goddess before digging in.

“Thank you for the meal, oh holy Goddess. Amen.” Everyone says.

It's nothing special in your mouth, but at least Ellien smiles, you notice.

You eat up your portion but it has difficulty going through your throat.

It must be this corset, you determine, while trying to adjust yourself.

Suddenly, Ellien's grandpa speaks to you.

“So what did you girls talk about?” Grandpa asks Ellien.

“About school.” She tells him.

“Hey, maybe if you know the daughter of that lady you should ask her if she can talk to her mother…” Grandpa ruminates.

“Don’t talk politics in front of the guest.” Grandma stops him.

“Okay granny.” The grandfather responds.

It’s a nice family, you notice, but you haven’t yet experienced someone talking about your mother like that.

If that’s how everyone in the village sees you then you better be careful, you tell yourself.

“How is school sister?” Her brother asks her.

“It’s fine. I’m making friends and all.” She responds.

“That’s good. How is she treating you? The brother turns to you.

“Hey!” Ellien interrupts.

“With care. We go to the same school after all.” You respond.

“So the two of you were doing homework?” The grandfather asks.

You nod with relief. It seems so that for him you were just doing school work with her.

After finishing up, you touch Ellien shoulder and excuse yourself from the table.

Because you just realized your mother might be waiting with dinner, you have to hurry to your house.

You thank everyone for hospitality and Ellien sees you to the door. You wave her goodbye as you step out of the house.

“I’m sorry, I must hurry home.” You announce everyone.

“Of course you do!” Ellien mentions.

“Go to mother, and say thanks from us.” Grandpa interjects.

“I will do so, sir. See you at school Ellien.” You bow.

“See you too Pyrie.” She waves at you as you leave.

It takes you some time, since you are still wearing the dress you had from church,

but you finally make your way back home. You were faster than you anticipated, you noticed.

Your mother, Beamortha, greets you through the open door.

“Darling, where have you been?” She asks with big eyes.

“I was at Ellien’s…” You explain.

“But look at you!” She interrupts before you could finish.

She is slightly angry, but not at the fact you missed dinner or didn't tell her where you were going.

What she noticed is that you dirtied your dress a little.

It's nothing that important, you think, you can always clean it yourself.

However, you are also made aware at this moment that you don't know how to do laundry in this world.

Nevertheless, there is always Emmi you can ask for help, you ponder.

“Just try to be mindful next time darling?” She hovers her hand over you while you enter the house.

“Of course mother. I didn’t intend to do that.” You excuse yourself.

“I should honestly scold Emmi for that, but I need you to understand too.” She says while helping you take off your shoes.

“I promise I will behave like a lady in future mother.” You tell her.

You come in and take off your shoes, which also notice that require some cleaning.

Without a moment rest, you are dragged by Emmi to your room.

Instantly, she undresses you, removing your dress and your corset.

Then she takes it and carries it to the laundry room. You ask her if she needs help.

“Help? You helped enough already young madam.” She informs you.

“By being a good girl and keeping quiet?” You punt.

“That alone is fine. I have to…” She tries to say.

“I simply want to watch, is that wrong?” You interrupt.

“Okay, this way young madam.” She leads you towards the washing room.

You follow Emmi and watch as she uses her hands to wash the stains.

It takes huge strength, you realize, something that you don't possess with your small and delicate body.

You do try to help her, but it is too difficult for you. Afterwards, Emmi hangs the cloth on the dress stand for it to try.

“Are you satisfied, young madam?” She asks you.

“This is difficult. How can you do it?” You tell her.

“I pardon, I meant to say did the dress come out nicely?” She corrects herself.

“It’s wonderful, you know.” You look at her dispirited.

“Of course.” She bows.

“I have to excuse myself, Emmi.” You say while you leave the room.

“Very well young madam.” She bows down again.

Will Emmi be ever able to teach you the chores, you wonder, as they would be helpful for you later in life.

Right now she is highly against involving you in them, though she quite easily accepts your help if you insist.

Perhaps she gets scolded by your mother if she does make you work, you ruminate.

At some point Beamortha opens the door, and surprising you and the maid.

“Emmi, aren’t you overbearing your boundaries too much lately?” Your mother speaks.

“I apologise madam.” The maid bows deeply.

“She was simply following my orders mother. I ask her to show me how to do laundry.” You explain.

“Does that means you are ever planning on becoming a housekeeper? You have a strange mind, I must say.” She looks at you with disdain.

“Of course not, mother.” You lower your head. “ I thought It as a useful way to know your servants better.”

“Alright, I will give it a pass, but I will have to talk with you later, Emmi.” Your mother says.

“Of course madam.” She bows down again.

As your mother moved back to her room, Emmi keeps her body lowered until Beamortha disappears from your view.

You also apologise to Emmi, and simply say that you wanted to help.

All in all, if there was a washing machine, the maid wouldn't have to work so hard, you figure.

“That didn’t end well.” You tell the maid.

“It’s not your fault young madam.” She explains.

“But doing chores together does make me appreciate the work you do, Emmi.” You state.

“Of course young madam, but do be careful not to overstrain your limits.” She warns you.

After this entire affair forgot you brought the books from the library.

You follow Emmi’s suggestion and move to your room to do your own work.

You unwrap the packaging paper and look at the cover "The Blind flower".

That's the one that Acculina wanted you to read, you recall.

You open the book and start reading it from the beginning.

“The princess of the castle saw a single window in the wall.” You read.

“She cried and cried, but the spring didn’t come.” You pause for a moment.

“Instead the prince took the words of the oath literally and…” You continue reading.

Suddenly, while you are absorbed by the plot, you notice footsteps outside the room.

They stop near your door to leave you wondering. Several thoughts enter your head.

Is Emmi watching you through the keyhole, you wonder, she was interested in romance novels after all.

You decide to read a line out loud, while looking at the door. After a while you can hear a person leaving.

You let out a sigh of relief, but this way at least the novel you were reading got a little more interesting.

“Now where was I...Ah!” You try to say but…

There is a knock on your window, as if someone from outside wanted to get your attention.

It's a little faint, but you quickly notice who it was.

Minorta, who was trying to stay silent, was crunching near your window.

You gave her a gaze of surprise which she returned with her hand becoming you.

You opened the window as silently as possible and put your little finger on your lip.

“Please be quiet, someone might be looking.” You whisper to her.

“Some like who?” She whispers to you back.

“Emmi, the maid. She likes to watch.” You inform her.

“You have a maid too? How wonderful!” She raises her voice in excitement.

“I wish it was like that.” You explain.

“But anyway, are you doing anything specific?” She asks you politely.

It appears that Minorta came here to ask you for your help.

She explained that right now there are people gathering near Ellien house and that it's also getting dark.

Therefore, she is worried that something will happen.

But there is also something that she is willing to tell you, and only you.

“I’m worried because I saw people gathering. They were heading towards Ellien’s home.” She explains.

“I understand. Did you tell the priest?” You tell her.

“I did and he said that he will do something. But that’s not why I’m here.” She raises her voice again.

“Minorta, come down. Is it something else that you wanted from me perhaps?” You ask.

“You’re the only person I would ask. It’s because of the spirits. They are with the crowd.” She informs you.

It's the spirits again, you say to yourself, that’s the only reason why she would even consider asking for your help.

She noticed that some were gathering and leading the people towards Ellien's house.

“I did notice something strange, though it might not be related.” You inform her.

“Go on Pyrie.” She pleads.

“You see, several people were acting strangely today at the market.” You explain.

“I see, so they were gathering throughout the day…” She says while ruminating.

“I presume that might be right, yes.” You agree.

It's their fault that she received bad looks from the villages.

Of course, since you spoke about spirits with Minorta previously,

you have no other choice but to accept that as fact. It is the truth, you nod.

“So what are we going to do? The two of us can’t do anything against a crowd.” You state.

“But we can at least try! I mean they didn’t appear as if they were going to talk.” She tells you.

“Then isn’t it dangerous?” You argue.

“No, just looking is not dangerous.” Minorta explains.

You feel uneasy, like something forcibly trying to get into your head.

It is a powerful blow, but you shrug it off for the moment.

“I’m worried about Ellien! We have to hurry.” She urges you.

“I’m worried as well, Minorta, but is it wise?” You respond with doubt.

“Of course! We will just watch, come on!” She grabs your hand.

“Okay, but don’t do anything dangerous, okay?” You warn her.

You agree to help Minorta and decide you will head out in secret.

You tell Emmi that you will be late and ask her to keep a secret too.

She agrees and you put on your clothes quickly and rush towards Ellien's house.

After you arrive you notice that there is a crowd of people in front of the house.

They have lit touches, wooden stakes, long sharp forks and brooms.

They don't appear to have a killing intent, standing still and calm.

They do however lack patience from time to time, shouting to release the demon, vampir, and such.

“Hey, you!” One man says.

“Release the Vampir!” Another one adds.

"Have you no shame to hide a demon in our village?” Some woman speaks.

“Come out, we don’t want to hurt any humans.” Yet another utters.

“You died! I was at your funeral!” An old fellow says.

“Can you all just calm down and a little?” Someone pleads.

As Minorta tries to approach them, you halt her advance and suggest that you both hide behind a bush.

“This is bad, I don’t know…” Minorta speaks.

“You said you wouldn’t do dangerous things.” You interrupt.

“But I just wanted to talk.” She excuses herself.

“They don’t seem… look let’s hide over there.” You point at the bush.

Your eyes agree that nothing is happening so far, that you don’t need to take action,

though something makes you feel like the crowd is about to take action.

You tell yourself that you need to calm down, that you mustn’t accept your desire to act as a hero.

Hence, you brace yourself and concentrate on the present instead of the future.

“Why would he come here?” Voice.

“Is this how you behave after all those years?” Voice.

“You should have stayed with us.” Voice.

“Come back.” Voice.

“This is not your place.” Voice.

Those faint voices travel through the air and into your ear.

You are not sure where they come from. It might be your mind, it might be the wind…

They are whispering something to you, something sinister. It makes you a little angry, but not to the point of hate.

It might be the spirit that affected other people, you realize. You decide to talk to that voice.

“Return to your place? What do you mean?” You ask.

“It is simply not your place to be.” You hear a response.

“Then tell me, what is my place?” You query again.

“It is there, where you were born.” A voice tells you.

“That place? I’m here. I was born here.” You explain.

“The place from where you came.” Another voice sounds.

“The place that connects your nature.” Yet another rings.

That's what the spirits are trying to communicate to you.

They found out one of them entered the world of humans, and now they became upset.

“That is not how it is supposed to be, that's not natural.” They say.

That's why they incited humans to gather here.

That's why they told them to kill Ellien's father.

Their plan was to bring back the wind spirit who went inside of Ellien's father.

Their plan was to forcibly extract it from Ellien’s father’s body.

But why are you angry, you question yourself.

It is because you forcibly realized that this is not your home, this isn't the place you belong.

“Leave this place.” A human? voice speaks.

“You don’t belong here.” A spirit? voice echoes.

“It’s not your place to live.” A voice? fills your mind.

Suddenly, the situation changes.

“Look!” Someone points.

“I’m here now. What do you want?”

Ellien’s father says as he exits through the door.

Ellien's father comes out and shouts. He wants everyone to leave his family alone,

but the mob of the angry villagers doesn't appear to be afraid of him at all.

“Get him!” A person shouts.

On the contrary, they approach as if there was mystical force pushing them around.

Ellien lets out a scream, stopping them only for a single moment.

Her brother holds his scythe high, and the grandparents raise their weapons as well.

They all stand side by side, walling of the father. The villages appear not threatened.

“Now, you have to understand. We are not here to hurt you.” The man explains.

“Leave my dad alone.” Ellien’s brother says.

“What dad? That man is already dead.” Someone from the crowd states.

“Leave my son alone.” Ellien’s grandfather pleads.

“We can touch the place instead if you don’t leave. Your choice.” A person warns.

All of a sudden, Minorta grabs your hand and starts to run.

“Hey!” You shout.

“There is no time!” She replies.

You have no option but to follow her. She stops right between Ellien and the mob, extending her hands wide.

You do the same, trying to act as a wall, albeit a very small one.

Minorta hopes that if they won't listen to reason, they will at least answer to morality, you discern.

“You have to pass through us.” Minorta states with bravery.

“Children, please leave.” A man tells you and your friend.

“You are going to get hurt.” Someone else says.

“This is a matter of the village, leave.” A woman pleads.

“Never we should kill! This is not right!” Minorta shouts.

But in reality she was trying to speak with the spirits.

Everyone deserves to live, every life is precious and worth nurturing.

When the wind spirit decided to live among humans, he did it to fix his mistake.

Ellien's father was supposed to be alive in the first place, so there is no reason to take his life now.

“It’s not because of magic, it’s not because of sorcery. This man was afflicted by a spirit.” Minorta orates.

“Oh sure he did.” Someone smirks.

“And that spirit did it because he made a terrible mistake, the same mistake you are doing right now! ”Minorta continues.

“What mistake?” A man shouts.

“You have to understand, killing is not the solution!” Minorta forces out of her mouth.

You agree with her, and plead for mercy with your hands joined in prayer.

You kneel on the ground, along with Minorta and face the ground.

Your vision becomes paired by the embers from the flames.

“Enough!” A voice echoes.

First, you hear a step towards you.

Then, there is a blade near your neck.

The hand that's holding it is uneasy.

You let out tears in fear that fall silently to the ground.

“Please don’t kill me…” Voices.

“I don’t want to die!” Voices.

“I want to continue living…” Voices.

“This life is precious.” Voices.

“This life…” Voices.

During this moment you realized the value of your life.

"I want to live."

"I don't want to die."

"I don't want to lose my life."

Those words echoed inside your head.

But you were not the only one that heard those words, as Minorta besides you felt very similar.

Her plan was to plead to the spirits, that they would leave humans alone.

What would happen next to her wasn't important for her.

Even if she would drop dead here, her life would have meaning.

Her life would be worth living again.

“This life is worth living.”

You say out loud to yourself.

Not only hers, but her family, and Ellien's family, they all have a role.

Taking that away would hurt not only them, but others as well.

Knowing so the mob stopped, as you sensed the spirits left the vicinity.

“That life is worth saving.” A faint voice speaks.

“That life is precious.” Another one echoes.

“That life is something that we can’t take away.” A whisper silences itself.

In the end they decided not to pass on their judgement onto a human.

They are spirits who live in a world parallel to the human one.

However, it is forbidden by law that they interact with the human world selfishly.

Therefore, actions that end up causing the death of a human is a serious crime for them.

That’s the reason why they would stop and reconsider their actions before it was too late.

It only took Minorta’s speech for them to understand that they were wrong.

“I can’t.” Someone says.

Although you could barely even breathe, you no longer felt the cold blade against your throat.

"It’s wrong to kill.” Someone says from the crowd.

"Let the man go.” A person utters.

"Hey, you better live long.” A man tells the father and leaves.

Some people left. You didn't know if it was okay to stand up.

More people left. Your hands and knees were still on the ground.

It was Ellien who hugged you from behind that told you were fine to stand up.

In the darkness, you could see her dim smile, and beside her Minorta, who was trying to hold back her tears.

The three of you embraced each other, glad that you are all alive.

“I’m so glad!” Says Ellien who hugs you.

“We made it out alive! I was so scared!” Minorta happily jumped at you.

“I’m still alive?” You asked yourself.

“Are you hurt anywhere?” Ellien asks her friend.

“It’s okay.” The friend replies.

Eventually the crowd dispersed, as there was nothing else you could do.

Indeed, Ellien's father was supposed to be alive in the first place, you assert.

But there was another reason. Minorta, who was called a spirit medium, was a favourite of the priest.

Going against her would mean going against the church as well.

That's why when the spirits left, the villagers decided against the lynch.

They feared the retribution they would face if they would murder a person.

“What’s next?” Minorta asks.

“I guess we all go home.” Ellien speaks.

“I suppose that’s only natural.” You say.

It’s time to go home, you decided, and said your farewells to Ellien’s family and Minorta.

It was late and getting dark, you had to be quick because Emmi was still waiting.

You sneaked back through the window that was left slightly open and stealthy entered your room.

There you saw a plate with your supper. The servant left it there, you figured.

“Thanks Emmi, I owe you.” You said when you closed the window.

You change your clothes, eat your meal, wash your face and go to sleep.

Thinking back at what happened today you can only wonder so much.

Your head is heavy and you fall asleep. Your mind travels to another place.