“Are you sure you want to do this, Ayame?” Mom asked, looking at me with a helpless expression. “The life in Lorrel Forest is extremely hard. Your magical powers won’t work there.”
“That is exactly the reason I want to go there, mom. I want to tire myself out so much that I have no energy left to feel guilty.”
“I am so sorry, Ayame….” Tears brimmed in her eyes and she croaked, “I should have done a better job in protecting you. I am sorry I failed you.”
“Don’t blame yourself anymore.” I held her hand and squeezed it gently. “You have done enough, mom. Now, it is my turn to repent for my sins.” Turning to Carla, I added, “Please take care of mom as you always do.”
“Ayame….”
“Please, Carla.” My voice became thick with emotions. “Don’t say anything. If you try to stop me, I won’t be
