Chapter 172

Chapter 172

Well, anyway, even if I die, Ill start over anyway.

Dont talk like that.

Still. Dont be so afraid. Its not just this timewe can start over again. Even if I die, Ill come back to life.

Raymond and Carynne had plenty of opportunities. She could die several times, and he would remember it all.

By the way, Raymond, youre probably not scared of dying now either.

What?

You used to be scared before.

Did I?

He looked slightly puzzled. She just chuckled softly.

Do you remember when you used to wake up in the middle of the night, frightened?

Yes.

His eyes slightly wrinkled as if he were probing the distant past.

The conversation fell silent again. She regretted bringing up death so casually. Recent short deaths, which were a comedy to her, were probably decades of repetition for the one who was left behind.

To avoid seeing his darkened expression, she would have to try not to die this time too. It seemed that Raymond was more afraid of Carynnes death than Carynne herself. Those who watched someone elses death would feel more torment compared to the one who had died.

He was the one who initiated the conversation again.

First, Ill set up traps in the forest and at the entrance.

Thats fine. But can I go out during that time?

Ill explain everything properly, so please remember it well.

Alright.

As she sighed, he stood up and gently pulled her by the nape of her neck. His lips brushed hers briefly before he retreated.

Finish your tea first.

Just a moment.

Raymonds breath became slightly uneven. The taste of tea lingered on his lips, but it seemed to have a sweeter taste than the tea in the cup, even though it was the same tea. She pulled him closer. Their tongues intertwined, and their breaths mingled.

Physical intimacy between them now felt completely natural. He must have really been quite bored during her absence. She thought about this while looking up at him.

His eyes curved, and she liked the vibrant emerald hues in his irises. It was a rare expression that she only occasionally saw, especially in the very end.

Raymond pulled away slightly and spoke.

Ill stop by the capital on the way back and bring some clothes for you. What do you think?

Its just ready-made clothes, anyway.

It was a silent and peaceful place. She faintly smiled while looking at the sky. This time, it was fine.

This time, she was okay. Raymond would remember her, and even if she died, he would come find her again. She waited for death to find her once again while submerged in the water.

But she worried that Raymond would be sad.

Look at this, Raymond.

Hiring servants would have been better.

Next time, she had to make sure to say that.

However, Her wish wasnt immediately fulfilled. As she was drowning, someone strongly lifted her out of the water.

Splaaash!

Carynne clung to that arm and was welcomed by the world, which was welcoming her back abruptly once again.

Returning to the surface was painful. She was lifted out of the water, and the world outside the water brought her pain. She was pulled up, and she collapsed on the waters edge, coughing.

Cough, cough! Ugh!

Water came up from her throat. Liquid, whether tears or water, flowed from her eyes.

Damn it Are you crazy? Huh? What are you doing right now?

Carynne looked at the person who had pulled her out. And, she blinked. Its not Raymond.

Come back to your senses, the man said respectfully.

She initially thought it was someone she hadnt met before. But the voice was familiar. And this person absolutely shouldnt be here. He was someone who should never act like this. It felt like her throat was closing up. She thought she had vomited all the water, but her throat still felt blocked.

Thank you.

It was Verdic Evans.

* * *

Carynne couldnt recognize him at first. She was shocked twice when she finally did.

First, she was surprised that she didnt recognize Verdic Evans. And second, she was even more surprised by his appearance. Human beings were not always unchanging, but Verdic Evans had always been consistently the same for a hundred years.

He always wore expensive suits, always neatly slicked back his hair with just the right amount of oil, always had his mustache neatly groomed. He kept his beard neatly trimmed, maintaining a sharp and clean jawline that defied his age. His beard was always cleanly shaven, and his perfectly tailored suits accentuated his slightly plump figure in an aesthetically pleasing manner.

He always had stylish glasses, gloves, a cane, and a smooth voice. He appeared even more aristocratic than some nobles themselves. Still, those who wanted to knock him down a peg would say that the rings and necklaces that he liked wearing made him look vulgar.

Nevertheless, he had never shown a disheveled appearance from head to toe. Even when he would rush at her to hack away at her neck. Even when his one and only daughter, Isella, had collapsed.

He always had an immaculate appearance.

However, the current him was entirely different.

He wore no jewelry. His face was adorned with an unkempt stubble. Most importantly, his demeanor had completely changed. Perhaps it was because his hair was wet, sticking to his face.

But clearly, that was not the only reason.