She raises an eyebrow when Edgar stops her.
Marin: What exactly do you two want from me? And why should I sacrifice my life for strangers who are none of my concern?
Edgar calmly tilts his head.
Edgar: I don't object to your opinion… but the problem isn't your opinion in the first place, because—unfortunately—you don't have a choice here.
She turns away, angry.
Marin: What?! You mean it's mandatory?
Ronak intervenes in a calm tone.
Ronak: Not entirely mandatory… it's a choice: either you accept… or you go to prison.
She raises her eyebrows in obvious annoyance.
Marin: Do I have a third option… like both of you getting out of my face right now?
Ronak winks lightly.
Ronak: Unfortunately… no~
She sighs in resignation.
Marin: Fine… but it will be according to my conditions.
They walk on until they reach a spacious hall where an elderly Priestess stands, greeting them with a warm smile.
Priestess: May the Lord bless your steps… How may I assist you?
Marin remains silent, before Ronak lightly pats her head.
Ronak: Priestess… The Saintess has arrived.
The Priestess's jaw drops in shock.
Priestess: The… Saintess?! Truly?!
Ronak smiles, while Marin looks like a stray cat that doesn't understand what's happening, cautiously clinging to Edgar's sleeve.
The Priestess bows in awe.
Priestess: Oh, the grace of Heaven… I never imagined I'd see you one day.
Marin whispers to Edgar coolly.
Marin: Grace? This old woman's life seems very empty.
Edgar lightly taps the top of her head.
Edgar: You've become more insolent than me…
The Priestess continues enthusiastically.
Priestess: Lady Saintess! We must hold a celebration for your arrival!
Marin's smile widens, and she laughs proudly, placing her hand under her chin.
Marin: Hohoho… Am I that great then?
Both Ronak and Edgar freeze, while the Priestess grows more excited.
Priestess: Even greater, my Lady… nothing surpasses your status.
Marin takes the Priestess's hand.
Marin: Wonderful, my dear… I like you. You will be my servant.
Priestess (Awestruck): Really?!
Marin confidently, as if the stars revolve around her.
Marin: Of course. And I will
make you, Ronak… my pet dog.
Ronak raises his eyebrows, trying to restrain his anger, while Edgar covers his mouth to hide a mocking smile.
Marin continues coolly.
Marin: Anyway… What is your name, Grandma?
Priestess: My name is Lucy… and may I know yours, my Lady?
Marin: Marin… Pleased to meet you. And now… What are my duties here?
Lucy thinks for a moment.
Lucy: Many, but the most important are participating in wars, healing, and controlling the Crown Prince's curse.
Marin tilts her head.
Marin: Oh my… that's a lot. And what about the Crown Prince?
Lucy: He suffers from a curse inherited through generations.
Marin recalls.
Marin: Is it the same curse as the Duke of the neighboring kingdom?
Lucy: No… the Duke's curse does not threaten his life as our Prince's curse does.
Marin: Ehhh? But I don't even know how to use my power.
Lucy: Sir Monarch will take care of your training.
Marin sighs.
Marin: Alright… but I'm exhausted now. Edgar, to the house.
Monarch quickly objects.
Ronak: Wait!
Marin turns to him coolly.
Marin: What is it, my pet dog?
He clenches his fist, anger drawn on his forehead.
Ronak: The Saintess must reside here, she cannot leave.
Marin thinks, then shrugs.
Marin: Fine… this is better than that house. But I have one condition.
Lucy: And what is it, my Lady?
Marin points towards Edgar.
Marin: I want him with me… otherwise, I won't come.
Edgar covers his mouth, his eyes sparkling with suppressed pride.