Chapter 67 – Part 1

Zen paused a little before answering.

“That’s— Well, I’m not sure. However, as far as I know, if the mage who created the magic detector is better than the mage who created the magic tool… then there is a high probability of getting caught.”

“…….”

I took out the disposable transformation magic tool that Zen had given me, then I looked at whose name was engraved upon it.

Usually, mages engraved their names on magic tools after making them. It was a label of some kind.

Those who were satisfied with purchasing and using a certain magic tool memorized the name of the mage engraved on the magic tool, and they would later purchase magic tools from the same mage again. For that reason, most magic tools had the name of the maker engraved on them.

Of course, there were cases where the mage’s name was not engraved. This would be the case if a mage was reluctant about revealing their identity. For example, the magic tool that Owen gave me had no name engraved on it.

But this magic tool was disposable… The maker must have considered the details. Therefore, there was a high probability that the mage’s name was engraved.

‘Where is it? It’s usually around here…’

I looked meticulously, but soon I came across the mage’s name and hesitated.

Benjamin Works… It was a name I wasn’t familiar with. It means that he wasn’t a very famous mage.

If so… Of course, there’s a higher possibility of me getting caught by the magic detector. Theodore wouldn’t use a detector made by a mediocre mage.

‘What am I to do…’

I thought about it, but I could find no answer. In the end, I’d have to go through the inspection and search, and I had no choice but to leave it to chance.

Standing with his arms crossed behind the knights doing the checkpoints, Theodore was staring at every single person with keen eyes. My shoulders trembled slightly at his piercing gaze, but I continued to act calm.

If I get caught here, it’s really over. I’m sorry Theodore…

For Theodore, his family’s honor was on the line. But for me, it was my life that’s at stake.

If I get dragged away and divorced by him, I would be stuck in Everett again. If that would happen, I’d have to endure the abuse from my father who’d no doubt be enraged by the fact that I had attempted to run away, and I’d have to suffer through the terrible harassment of Owen and Hessen as well.

Would I once again be able to endure that hell?

After looking at A lantern amidst darkness at Zen’s Cabin, I no longer wanted to throw my life away. I wanted to live happily, even if my remaining lifespan was short.

So, I hope I can avoid the path where I will take my own life. Because I don’t want such an unfortunate death anymore.

If there is a God, just this time, please…

“Next!”

Finally, my turn came. Zen wasn’t subject to checkpoints, so he was already on board, looking down with anxious eyes and Charlotte was standing right behind me.

I clenched my hands into fists and slowly approached the knight holding the magic detector. I had taken up the form of a handmaid with brown hair this time. There would be no trace of Lily Everett’s appearance anywhere in this look. Undoubtedly…

“…….”

But for some reason… I had the feeling that Theodore was watching me more than anyone else.

‘…It must be my misunderstanding. Let’s stay calm.’

It’s only because I was afraid of being caught by him. I thought about it and eased my nervousness. The knight placed the magic detector on my arm with an expressionless face.

I felt the magic power running through my body from head to toe, like cold water was being poured on me—

“…….”

The knight, who was staring at the results displayed on the detector, slowly opened his mouth.

“Pass.”

“……!”

In that instant, I was so relieved that I almost let out a big sigh. However, doing something that would raise suspicion and would catch Theodore’s attention. I tried to leave the place with a calm expression, pretending that nothing was wrong—as if I had heard the obvious result.

At least, I was going to.

“Wait.”

Had it not been for Theodore suddenly summoning me.

The moment I heard his voice, my heart started racing like crazy. Fortunately, my limbs didn’t tremble, so I looked back at him while pretending to be calm.

Theodore stood still and stared at me. I accidentally met his eyes and quickly lowered my head. Don’t be nervous, it won’t be a big deal, let’s stay calm. Repeating it over and over again in my mind, I waited for this search time to end quickly.

And after some time.

“…Go.”

Finally, Theodore let me go.

——