The forest inside Brunheart’s gate was filled with dead trees, and a robed creature could be seen hugging its knees under one such tree. 

The oversized robe made it impossible to see its expression. However, its glum silence, how it hugged its knees so tightly, and its downcast head suggested how disappointed it must have been.

Step.

Just then, another creature walked up to this disappointed robed figure. The newcomer was a tall man with yellow eyes. His shoulder-length blond hair looked memorable but not as noticeable as the white wings on his back. 

The man patted the robed creature’s shoulder and consoled him, “Don’t be so upset. This was the grandmaster’s decision, so you must accept it.” 

The robed figure’s hood fell when it looked up at the man. Wearing the robe was a creature made of bones as thin as the tree branches around it.

It was Hart.

“...” Hart didn’t say a word and only looked up at Hamiel quietly. 

Hamiel continued, “At least you became the assistant manager. You must be grateful for that.” 

Hamiel’s voice was warm and genuine as he comforted Hart.

***

“Sir! Please take good care of this gate,” Gi-Gyu asked respectfully. 

“Of course, I will. I have always been interested...