Austin was attending another funeral.
Even though he had returned in time, he still couldn't protect someone close to him.
But this time… he didn't feel sad—at least not on the inside, no matter what his face showed.
He stood quietly beside his parents. His sister was off to the side, while Valerie stood a short distance away with her own family.
The wind was strong today, tugging at their clothes as the priest recited blessings for Aiden's soul, wishing him peace in the afterlife.
Aiden had tried to flee the capital after his crimes were uncovered. He was involved in slave smuggling… and had bribed several spies to keep tabs on ministers—and even on his own parents.
The truth came out unexpectedly, as if by chance. When Aiden ran, he was killed by an S-rank beast that appeared out of nowhere.
Of course, that 'chance' was carefully planned.
Austin had pulled all the strings. He had set everything in motion—quietly, from the shadows. Valerie was the only one who knew.
