Chapter 197: “Sunny Day”
This novel is translated and hosted on bcatranslation.
The sun gleamed brightly through the window, pushing away memories of the recent terrible weather. It felt almost surreal to think that just a while ago, there was a raging storm outside. The only remnants of that torrential downpour were the droplets of water on the windowsill and the dampness on the streets. It seemed like the perfect day for a leisurely afternoon nap. However, Shirley had already had more than her fill of sleep. It was the longest she had ever slept in one stretch, and her rumbling stomach indicated that it was time to rise.
For most children, the sensation of a hungry stomach might be just a minor discomfort, but for Shirley, it evoked painful memories from her past. These memories took her back to a time when she was very young, shortly after the tragic loss of her parents during the onset of winter that year. Alone and hungry, she had found refuge in a dilapidated hut on a cold, snowy night. The hut had leaks, and the cold was almost unbearable. On that night, hunger gnawed at her as she fought the desperate need for sleep. If it weren’t for the presence of Dog, she might have succumbed to the cold. Falling asleep on a frigid winter night while starving could have meant certain death.
Suddenly, a familiar voice echoed from the hallway. “Shirley! Are you awake? I thought I heard some movement!” It was Nina. Shirley had just changed into fresh clothes when the voice reached her.
Gathering herself, Shirley replied, slightly hesitant, “I-I’m here and awake.”
The door swung open, revealing Nina dressed in a crisp white shirt paired with a light brown skirt. She entered the room, her face beaming with a broad smile, “You slept like a log! How do you feel? Is your back alright? And that wound… Let me have a look, come on…”
Trying to sidestep the ever-curious Nina, Shirley responded, “I used up quite a bit of energy, so I ended up sleeping a tad longer than I intended. I promise I’m fine.” But avoiding the bubbly Nina was no easy task. Realizing resistance was futile, Shirley surrendered, “The injury wasn’t that bad. I have a strong healing ability, but… hey, stop, that tickles! Haha…”
Nina, finally releasing her grip on Shirley, exclaimed in amazement, “It’s completely healed! Just last night it looked so severe, and now there’s not even a trace of a scar. What’s your secret?”
Gently straightening her dress, which she had salvaged from the wreckage of the previous day’s events, Shirley explained, “Haven’t I mentioned it before? I share a symbiotic relationship with a shadow demon called Dog. Among his traits are enhanced physical strength and a remarkable healing ability.” She paused and then added, “Actually, I could heal even faster. But Dog mentioned my malnourished state, which limits my full regenerative potential…”
“You really need to eat more while you’re here. My uncle’s culinary skills are second to none,” Nina eagerly suggested. Her eyebrows furrowed inquisitively as she added, “I’ve been wondering… Is everyone who’s bonded with a shadow demon as formidable as you?”
Shirley tilted her head thoughtfully, “Well, it largely depends on the type of shadow demon one is linked with. For instance, my association with Dog, a dark hound, grants me enhanced strength, rapid healing, and heightened awareness. Additionally, it also provides a certain resistance to spiritual corruption. But you see, the world of shadow demons is vast and diverse, and each has its own unique abilities. While I’m familiar with some, I can’t claim to know them all. Each bond is singular and distinctive.”
However, as Shirley spoke, her demeanor shifted, becoming graver. She met Nina’s eyes intently, “It’s important you understand something, Nina. While I may share a bond with Dog, many who ally with shadow demons belong to the Annihilation Sect. They’re considered the deranged zealots of this world. Their bonds are not like mine, and their demons are certainly not benevolent like Dog.”
Nina waved her hand dismissively, although her eyes shimmered with insatiable intrigue. “I get it, I get it. I’m not naive,” she said. “But, out of sheer curiosity, have you ever encountered other demon symbiotes? Specifically, those associated with the Annihilation Sect?”
Shirley frowned, a shadow of disgust crossing her face. “I’ve been fortunate enough not to have met any. Dog has described some of them to me, and it’s enough to churn my stomach. If I ever do cross paths with them, I’ll ensure they’re handed over to the proper authorities.” She then arched an eyebrow at Nina, “You’re unusually inquisitive today. The last time you met Dog, you weren’t this curious. What happened at school that’s got you asking so much?”
Nina’s expression grew more earnest, “Now that you’re living with us, it’s only natural I want to understand you better. My uncle mentioned that your home was destroyed in a gas explosion, leaving you without a place to go.” Without waiting for Shirley’s reply, she grabbed her hand, eager to change the topic, “By the way, school’s out for summer break. Didn’t you know I’ve got two whole months off?”
Caught off guard and already being ushered out the room, Shirley murmured, “How would I? I’ve never been to a school.” The tantalizing aroma of food reached their nostrils then, making Shirley momentarily forget her confusion. “Isn’t that your uncle’s cooking I smell?”
Nina responded as they neared the kitchen, “Uncle is downstairs attending to a guest. So, we’ll be dining upstairs.” Suddenly remembering something, she swiftly redirected Shirley towards the washroom, “Oh, before we eat, make sure to wash your hands and face. Uncle’s pretty particular about cleanliness before meals.”
Shirley found herself in the curious position of becoming Nina’s proverbial puppet, being tugged this way and that, much to her mild dismay. To an onlooker, their interactions might have appeared almost overbearing. However, the truth was far more endearing. It was the type of affectionate teasing and playful dominance that usually transpires in a household filled with warmth and close relationships.
Meanwhile, on the first floor of the quaint antique shop, Duncan was engaged in an in-depth conversation with a striking young woman. She sat opposite him, adorned in a graceful, flowing dress that only accentuated her dignified beauty. Her long blonde tresses cascaded down her back, shimmering subtly under the soft lighting of the shop.
One might be forgiven for thinking she was some noble or royal based on her appearance. But the reality was quite different.
“So, to summarize, there are numerous nuances and social cues you need to grasp when interacting in human society. I’ve shared the essentials, considering your current surroundings. For now, focus on familiarizing yourself with the store’s environment and the regular patrons. For instance, maintaining the store’s cleanliness and greeting customers courteously are fundamental,” Duncan concluded, though a hint of concern still lingered in his eyes as he studied the elegant blonde lady. “Do you recall the lessons I gave you during our journey on the ship?”
Alice, as she was now named, nodded eagerly, a brief burst of excitement shining through. But just as quickly, she moderated her enthusiasm, taking care to mimic the poise of a lady of high stature. “Rest assured,” she began, her voice steady and measured, “I remember everything clearly.”
Duncan sighed in relief. “The subtle nod, that’s good. At least you’ve retained that bit.” He then took a moment to scrutinize Alice’s new appearance in detail.
Her natural long silver hair had been cleverly concealed under a golden wig, her features subtly enhanced with makeup, and a veil delicately draped over the lower half of her face to prevent any unwanted recognition. Furthermore, she wore a choker to hide the joints around her neck, complemented by long white gloves that concealed her arm joints. These modifications ensured that she blended seamlessly with humans.
Still, there was a minuscule chance that someone might recognize the anomalies in Alice’s appearance, especially if they were intimately familiar with the Frost Queen. However, considering that Ray Nora, the Frost Queen, lived over fifty years ago, the likelihood of someone from Frost visiting Pland, descending to the lower city, and then specifically visiting Duncan’s antique shop was next to none.
Duncan leaned back, silently admiring his own handiwork and cunning.
Originally, Duncan had intended for Alice to remain aboard the ship for a while longer before introducing her to the bustling life of the city. He wanted her to have a more measured, gradual exposure to this “world” beyond the ship’s confines. However, during one of his routine visits to check on her, he found a melancholic scene. Alice wandered the decks of the Vanished like a lonely spirit, her eyes fixed on distant horizons, mirroring the forlornness of a child with no toys or playmates. She seemed trapped in a world of monotony, and Duncan couldn’t ignore the stark realization: solitude and idleness, to some, can be as torturous as any physical pain. Duncan might have been overly cautious, but he was no heartless tormentor.
Seizing an opportune moment when Nina and Shirley were engaged in their meal upstairs, Duncan enlisted the help of Ai to transport Alice from the ship to his antique shop. Yet, almost as soon as she arrived, Duncan questioned the wisdom of his decision. Alice, overwhelmed by the novelty of her new surroundings, dashed over to the shop’s front window. She pressed her face comically against the glass, her eyes darting in every direction, absorbing the sights of the busy streets. Her barrage of questions about every little movement outside was endless. Even while Duncan attempted to converse with her, she couldn’t sit still. Like an inquisitive child in a new place, she shifted restlessly, her attention constantly pulled away by the bustling life outside the glass barrier.
Alice really adds personality to a story that already doesn’t lack personality.
Well said
I bet Tyrian is going to visit the shop
I’d be more interested to see elf puppet lady drop by, lol.
maybe the captain of white oak visits and sees her
Calling it now, one of his kids is going to walk in and flip at seeing Alice.
mc should know better than anyone that even when it comes to next to zero chances nothing is impossible xD
It’s not rubbles but rubble, another singular and plural in one word.
The awaited visitation chapter! Yay