They finally returned to the capital. Considering how many times they almost died in their recent battle with Zepar, it was a miracle that they all were able to return in one piece. There was no time for Chi-Woo to dwell on his emotions, though, as Noel was still unconscious on his back.

For Chi-Woo, the fact that someone was negatively affected by his behavior brought him unendurable distress. It seemed he would only be able to rest in peace once he healed her. Thus, as soon as the team passed the castle walls, he announced, “Thank you all for your hard work.”

“Ahhh! Finally…?” Jin-Cheon stretched his arms and was about to say something when he looked back at Chi-Woo.

“I will take my leave first since Ms. Noel needs to be treated,” Chi-Woo said, but he stopped when he saw everyone looking at him in surprise. He wondered if he had said anything wrong.

“Is there a way to treat her immediately?” Apoline asked, and Chi-Woo shook his head.

“No, that’s not it, but…”

“Then why are you speaking as if you will figure things out on your own?”

“?”

“Do you not believe in us? Or is there something you are hiding?” Apoline said in an accusatory tone, and Chi-Woo fell silent.

“We also have responsibility over what happened to this woman,” Jin-Cheon then spoke. “We got separated; she helped save my companion....