The Wynmor Estate always felt too big, too polished, too controlled. So the moment I spotted a gap in the morning routine—maids running in circles, Arisa arguing with Mina about training schedules—I slipped out through the side corridor and made for the gate.
Just a quick stroll. I'll be back before anyone notices.
I pulled my hood low and followed the stone path down into town. The morning breeze smelled like baked bread and wood smoke, a welcome change from the perfume-laced hallways of the estate.
For the first time, I walked through the bustling marketplace alone.
Vendors shouted prices over each other, children sprinted between legs, and shopkeepers haggled as if their lives depended on every last coin. It was loud. Chaotic. Alive. I loved it.
I bought a sweet bun from an elderly woman—she patted my head and said, "Stay safe, little traveler."If only she knew.
Further down, I stopped by a fountain, watching pigeons fight over crumbs. People passed by without a second glance. Nobody knows me here… That freedom alone made the trip worth it.
That's when I noticed her.
A cloaked girl, standing at a fruit stall, quietly debating between silver and copper coins. Her hood was pulled low, hiding her face, but something about her presence drew attention—not loud, not flashy, just… uncommon.
She glanced up, startled when our eyes met.
"U-Um… the vendor said it's two silver, right?" she asked, unsure.
"Yeah," I said, helping her sort the coins. "That one's silver."
She smiled faintly, almost relieved.We didn't exchange names. Didn't ask questions. But she walked beside me afterward, matching my pace.
Without realizing, we spent almost the whole day wandering like that. No tension, no expectations. Two strangers sharing a quiet, simple adventure.
When the sun began to dip, she turned toward the northern street. "I should head back," she murmured.
"Me too," I said, adjusting my hood.
She hesitated a moment longer."…Thank you. For today."
I gave a small wave. "See you around."
She left. Her cloak disappeared into the crowd.
I headed back up the path to the estate, humming.
Easy. No one noticed I was gone.
Inside his office, Amane looked out the window at the empty road and sipped his tea.
"Follow him again tomorrow," he ordered calmly.
From the shadows, a masked figure bowed once.
"Yes, Master."
And vanished.