TYND 0

Prologue:

The child suddenly stopped. 

To the right of the path leading to the barracks, people were gathered around a bonfire, resting. A large man with jet-black hair and crimson eyes was meticulously polishing his sword, and beside him, a tawny-skinned attendant was reporting something to him. Around the fire, the subordinates sat, sharing what seemed to be an amusing conversation, their faces lit with laughter. 

So close…

That person had always obsessively guarded the child’s contact with others. Except during the battle, this was the first time the child had been this close to them. 

And he couldn’t tear his gaze away from them. 

I want to join them.

The child thought. 

I want to get closer.

They weren’t even aware of his existence, but they child knew who they were. Strong, beautiful, and kind-hearted people. Without realising it, his steps drifted towards them. After three steps, the man with the jet-black hair paused, looking up from his sword. His sharp eyes and tightly set mouth reflected both curiosity and suspicion. 

Noticing their superior’s sudden change in demeanour, the subordinates finally registered the child’s presence. They stiffened, jumped to their feet, and bowed reverently. 

The child hesitated. He wanted to go closer, to exchange words with them, but…… could he really? He’d certainly get in trouble. That person’s anger would be severe. He’d be hurt again. But even so…

“What’re you doing? Return at once!”

A voice, laced with wrath, echoed in his mind. The child flinched and turned around. Curious, wary eyes trailed after him, but he daren’t look back. 

Every step away was heavy with weariness.