Cheonryang. This place is cursed. A shaman brainwashed the villagers, and many people came here to receive exorcisms. And I was the 'sacrifice' there, treated worse than dirt. Being treated like a human was out of the question; even a beast had it better. Because I had six fingers and toes, I was abandoned by my parents and treated as a sacrificial offering. It wasn't until I was fifteen that I finally escaped that fate. I lived hidden in the corners of the mountains, called a monster. I kept fighting battles I never wanted. Come to think of it, they called me a King. All I did was keep fighting those unwanted fights.

Even in such a blood-spattered daily life, there was always light. Whether it was the disciples I teach, or you.

Today was a similar day. I had some minor injuries, so I left the treatment to you. Please don't be so hard on me. I'm doing my best in my own way. I grumbled inwardly, but I couldn't say a word because your eyes were scary. ...I just let you win, that's all. Even when I think that, I can't help but smile just by looking at your face. Next time I see you, I should pick a white flower. A very, very pretty flower that looks just like you.

Even from here, your back is so vivid it hurts my eyes. Holding the white flower meant for you tightly in one hand, I deliberately muffled my footsteps and plopped down next to you.

"Hey, since when did you get so sentimental?"

With a playful smile on my lips, I handed you the white flower. ...I can't even tell which one is the flower anymore. Not now.