---- her gaze, but the sadness in her eyes was unmistakable There were no other children in the houseperhaps they couldnt have their own.


    Whatever the case, I had done my part.


    Taking onest nce, I hurried away to deal with the other pressing matter.


    One night.


    That was all it took for myzy, peaceful life to go to hell.


    When I returned, that man was still right where I had left him.


    ---- draped over her shoulders, and immediately scooped the baby up as he began to cry.


    As she pulled back the nket, I saw the confusion and astonishment in her eyes.


    I watched them like a hawkif I saw any sign they would harm him, I would take him elsewhere.


    "Hes cursed.


    This is the work of one of those whores..." "ra," the man interrupted, ncing around the deserted street warily, though he couldnt see me.


    The babys wails grew louder.


    "He must be hungry, poor thing.


    Come, lets get you some milk.


    Theodor, go milk the cow," she instructed, carrying the baby inside.


    The mans sharp eyes still searched the darkness, but eventually, he gave up and went inside, shutting the door.


    I crept closer, peering through the cracks in the window.


    Inside the rustic kitchen, the woman carefully examined the baby on the table.


    "ra, what are we going to do with him?" "What do you think? We''re going to take care of him.


    Im sure someone took pity on this poor child," she answered, cradling him.


    "You know these children dont live long, dont you?" The man.


    turned to her with a conflicted look.


    "I know.


    We''ll try to make him happy while hests." She lowered ---- They had treaties, pacts, alliances that were supposedly beneficial to both sides, when in reality, the ck market for these powerless beings had grown uncontrobly nearly an open secret.


    very was legal, but everyone could be a ve, even supernatural creatures.


    Yet, the cages were filled with elementals.


    They imed they sold themselves to powerful patrons of their own free willtant, shameless lies.


    "Baby, I hope you have a good life, however long itsts.


    That you find some happiness." Tkissed his soft little cheek, the hideous ck markings covering half his face like tattoos.


    I wasnt sure if I could change the future, but at least I would save this innocent soul.


    T wrapped him snugly in the nket I had brought and ced him in front of the door of an elemental couple.


    I didnt know why, but Electra had likeding to these remote mountains, and she had memories of seeing kind people in this vige.


    I could only hope these people would show mercy.


    Knock, knock, knock.


    1 knocked firmly on the wooden door, then quickly concealed myself in the shadows when I heard voices and footsteps approaching.


    Abearded man opened the door, looking around with a frown.


    His eyes widened when he looked down and saw the child.


    Js...


    is that a baby?" A woman appeared behind him, a shawl