Then, a memory flashed of that day on the way back from the hospital when he had seen that sword hilt in a black box while helping his grandfather.

"Dis?"

“Yes?”

The feeling of one’s heart nearly leaping out of their throat wasn’t just an exaggerated literary expression. Karen was experiencing it for real.

When he looked at the childish drawing and recognized the figure in it as the killer, he couldn’t help but exclaim.

The “killer” had somehow already positioned himself at the door and replied with a simple:

“Yes.”

Softly spoken, yet it struck Karen like thunder in his ears.

Karen, who had been sitting on the spring mattress, immediately straightened his back and quickly stood up. Simultaneously, he closed the notebook in his hand.

“Were you just calling me?” Dis asked.

“I… yes, I was. I have something to discuss.”

Dis nodded. “I also have something to discuss with you.”

“Hehe, what a coincidence, Grandpa.”

“Come to my study.”

“All right, Grandpa.”

Dis turned and left.

As Karen heard the study door open, he quickly tore out the page from his notebook, crumpled it into a ball, and slipped it into his pocket. He glanced over at the glass of milk and water on his desk, but ultimately decided against swallowing the paper.

After leaving his bedroom, Karen entered Dis’s study.

The study itself was unremarkable, lacking any lavish decor or unique touches. The central chandelier was lit, casting a warm glow over the room. Karen remembered that on one particular evening, Dis had used candles here.

Dis sat behind his desk, and Karen pulled over a chair and sat down, trying to appear as natural as possible.

At this moment, Karen decided to set aside the matter of the drawing temporarily.

For one thing, he felt no deep affection for his “parents”; in fact, the “Karen” in his memories had barely any recollection of them, so whether his “parents” had truly been killed by Dis didn’t really affect him on a personal level.

More importantly, right now, his main goal was to preserve his own life.

“Do you want to go first, or shall I?” Dis asked.

“You go first, Grandpa.”

“Your uncle told me about what happened today, and he mentioned he wants to arrange a new position for you in the company.

You’ve become so sociable now, even helping others with their emotional burdens?”

Karen replied, “It’s precisely because I’ve suffered so much that I’ve learned to listen and console others.”

“Do you enjoy doing these things?”

“I do.”

“Why?”

“Because I’m part of the Immoles family. If I have the ability, I’m willing to help not just the family business, but also the people in our family… my family members.”

“A deacon position recently opened up at the Mason Street Church. If you want to help and guide others, that role might actually be more fitting.”

“I don’t wish to be a deacon.”

“Oh? And why not?”

“I want to work from my own perspective, not… under the guise of serving God.”

“There’s a difference?”

“A big difference.”

“What’s the difference?”

“I believe that family relationships are intrinsic, not granted by God. And family doesn’t need God as a mediator.”

“Go on.”

“Uncle Mason needs money, Aunt Mary needs money, and Aunt Winnie needs money since her divorce.”

“The family isn’t lacking in money.”

“But we’re also not yet wealthy enough.”

“I’m not very keen on seeing my children spend their lives chasing money. Money is endless. There are more meaningful things in life.”

“However, for most meaningful things to be achieved, there also needs to be enough money.”

Dis fell silent, and Karen also stopped speaking.

After a while, Dis broke the silence. “Do you like money?”

“Grandpa, as I just mentioned, it’s Uncle, Aunt, and Cousins Mina, Lent, and Chris who all need money. I’m fighting for what my family needs.”

Dis reached out and picked up the teacup on the table.

Karen immediately stood up, grabbing the teapot from the corner of the desk. “Would you like me to change the tea leaves, Grandpa?”

Dis shook his head.

Karen poured in some hot water, set the pot down, and resumed his seat.

“Do you think you’ll be able to earn enough this way? I know you made 20,000 rubes today. But I’m curious why that gentleman was willing to pay such a high fee.”

“Because he knows quality.”

“That’s just it. People who recognize quality are always in the minority, and those who both recognize it and have the money to spend are even fewer.”

“I’ll find other ways. I believe I can manage.”

“Very well.” Dis took a sip of tea. “Now, let’s hear your reason.”

“Grandpa, I want to resume my studies.”

“Oh? You want to go back to school?”

“Yes, Grandpa.”

“You just said you wanted to work for the family and make money.”

“I don’t need to attend every day. I can help with family matters while studying independently. But I need your help to officially reinstate my student status.”

“Are you also planning to attend university?”

“That’s my intention.”

“Where?”

“Saint John’s University in the Kingdom of Vayne. I heard it’s one of the world’s top universities.”

“Yes, that’s well-known. But do you think you can go there?”

“I believe that with hard work…”

“No, no.”

Dis interrupted him.

“What do you mean, Grandpa?”

“I’m old, and as people age, they become more attached to stability and like to see their family nearby.”

Karen was stunned.

In his original plan, going to study in another country was supposed to be a way to manage their relationship for both sides.

You know I’m not your grandson,

And I know that you know that I know I’m not your grandson.

I would leave Rodger City, leave the Kingdom of Rhianne with a legitimate reason.

In my mind, I’d finally break free from this family. I’d be… free.

And in your mind, your grandson would still be alive, studying abroad, creating a relationship defined by distance, beauty, and nostalgia.

Wouldn’t that be best for both sides?

Dis took another sip of tea and said, “I can’t let you travel far.”

“But Grandpa… I’ve already grown up. According to the traditions of Rodger City, I’m considered an adult at fifteen.”

“To me, you’re still a child. Unless…”

“Unless what?”

“Unless… I’m dead.”

As long as I’m alive, you won’t be leaving this family.

Of course, you could try running away, but you’re welcome to try.

Karen exhaled and forced a gentle smile, standing up as he spoke.

“Actually, I’d miss you too, Grandpa. Being here with you has always been my greatest happiness.”

Dis nodded and glanced at the door, indicating the conversation was over and Karen could leave.

As Karen turned to leave, his warm expression faded, replaced with a heavy expression.

Just as he reached the door, Dis spoke again.

“Oh, by the way.”

Karen quickly turned, his smile reappearing. “Is there anything else, Grandpa?”

“The hospital notified us that Mr. Hoffman has regained consciousness. I have business at the church tomorrow, so I’d like you to visit him for me.”

“All right, Grandpa. Thank heavens. God bless, it’s a relief Mr. Hoffman is finally all right.”

“Yes, now get some rest.”

“You too, Grandpa.”

---

Karen returned to his room, where Lent was already lying on the spring mattress, ready to sleep. Upon seeing Karen enter, Lent sat up and reminded him, “Brother, Mom asked me to remind you to finish your snack.”

“Got it.”

Karen noticed that there was 300 rubes under the glass of milk.

He closed his eyes, then reopened them, pulling out 1,300 rubes from the drawer to join the 300, and handed it to Lent.

“Brother… I can’t take your money.”

“Hold out your hand.”

“Brother…”

“Hold it out!”

Lent extended his hand.

Karen placed the 1,300 rubes in Lent’s hand, then leaned in close and firmly said, “You will listen to me.”

Lent pursed his lips, but ultimately nodded.

Karen stood up, realizing his mood from Dis’s words had spilled over onto Lent. He gently patted Lent’s head.

“I make money, so I don’t need your pocket money. Don’t tell your mom, and don’t waste it.”

“Yes, Brother.”

“Goodnight.”

“Goodnight, Brother.”

---

Back in the study, the black cat Purre walked gracefully across the desk.

“Speaking of earning money for the family, and always mentioning family… So touching. Dis, are you really being fooled by him?

He’s using his so-called family ties to bind you. He’s saying these things for his own survival!

Dis, do you believe him?

Or are you deceiving yourself?”

Dis sat in silence.

Purre continued her elegant pacing.

“Look at you, Dis. Is this still the same Judge Dis?

Dis, have you forgotten how you once killed your own son and daughter-in-law?

Why now, when facing a grandson, can’t you bring yourself to act?

And he isn’t even your only grandson!”

Dis’s gaze finally rested on Purre.

Under that look, Purre took a few steps back.

At that moment,

Dis spoke:

“Order… a cage.”

Black lines began to emanate from Dis’s body, instantly enveloping the area around the desk, creating an immediate isolation.

"Dis, what are you doing? Don’t act rashly. I’m waking you up, warning you, helping you!"

Dis’s hand,

landed directly on Puer’s back,

and pressed down.

“Ahhhhhhh!!!!”

Puer let out a series of painful cries.

Then,

the cries transformed into a cat’s meow: “Meow!!!!”

Dis watched the suffering Puer under his hand, his face expressionless, and asked indifferently:

“Are you teaching me how to do things?”

...

There were no customers at home today, and Mina, Lunt, and Chris had all gone to school.

After eating the breakfast Aunt Winnie had prepared, Karen went down to the first floor and saw Paul and Ron chatting in the garden.

“Good morning, Master Karen.”

“Good morning, young master.”

Ron was particularly enthusiastic, thanks to yesterday's 500 lu coins.

Karen said to Paul, “Are there any outings today?”

Paul shook his head. “We haven’t received any notifications yet.”

Ron added, “I think today should be a relaxing day; Mr. Mason and Mrs. Mary haven’t even woken up yet.”

His uncle and aunt were taking advantage of the quiet day to sleep in.

“Paul, could you drive me to the hospital later? I’m going to visit Mr. Hoffen on behalf of my grandfather.”

“Of course, young master.”

It wasn’t convenient to use the Immerles family’s car for personal trips elsewhere, but going to the hospital was perfectly legitimate.

Back in the carriage, where he had felt uncomfortable no matter what, Karen sat on the cushion and commented:

“Actually, we could consider getting a new hearse.”

This one was a modified vehicle; a proper hearse had a groove in the middle to hold coffins, with fixed seats and handles on both sides and more spacious seating.

“Mr. Mason has wanted to change it for a while, but Mrs. Winnie disagrees.”

Paul started the car, and the hearse began to move along Main Street.

“Paul, take that turn and pass in front of the row houses.”

“Alright, young master.”

However, as Paul made the turn, Karen changed his mind. “Never mind, Paul, turn back, let’s go straight to the hospital instead.”

“Understood, young master.” Paul showed no sign of impatience; he had a much better temperament than Ron. Of course, if you tipped Ron, he would instantly become incredibly enthusiastic.

Karen had wanted to pass by his uncle’s first love’s house and glance at the second-floor window, but on second thought, his grandfather wasn’t in the car, so to be cautious, he abandoned the idea.

After about ten minutes, Paul pulled the car into the hospital parking lot.

“I’ll wait here for you, young master.”

“Okay.”

Karen got out of the car and headed to the inpatient building.

As he walked up the stairs, he realized he hadn’t brought any fruit or flowers for the patient.

Should he go out and buy something or a bouquet first?

After a moment's hesitation,

Karen decided against it, feeling it was too much trouble.

“Hello, could you tell me which room Mr. Hoffen is in?”

“Mr. Hoffen? One moment, please; I’ll check for you.”

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

The young nurse at the desk was flipping through the patient directory, occasionally glancing up at Karen with a faint smile.

Karen politely returned her smile, patiently waiting.

Since he had inherited these handsome looks, he had no choice but to bear the troubles that came with them. Sigh.

For instance, this young nurse was checking slowly just to look at him a little longer.

Finally,

“Found it. Mr. Hoffen is in Room 301, Bed 2.”

“Thank you.”

“Would you like me to show you the way?”

“No, thank you.”

Karen climbed the stairs and reached the third floor; Room 301 was right by the stairwell.

Opening the door, he saw two beds inside. Mr. Hoffen lay on one bed, while a middle-aged woman in nurse’s attire was fast asleep on the other, softly snoring, oblivious to Karen’s entrance.

The nurse was slacking off,

Karen stepped forward to wake her up,

but at that moment,

Mr. Hoffen’s voice spoke:

“She works three jobs; she’s exhausted. Let her sleep a bit longer.”

Karen turned around and looked at Mr. Hoffen, who lay on the bed. His head was bandaged. Before Karen came in, he seemed to have been reading a newspaper. It looked like he was recovering well.

“Knowing that you were awake, I came to visit right away.”

Karen, who had come empty-handed, sat down beside the bed.

Mr. Hoffen sneered and said, “Are you disappointed I didn’t die from the fall?”

Karen shook his head and spoke frankly, “If I wanted, you probably wouldn’t have made it to the hospital alive.”

Mr. Hoffen frowned slightly, puzzled. “What, no longer pretending?”

“Why would I? I am Karen, though I’ve changed a bit since my last illness. After all, I almost died, so a change in personality is normal, isn’t it?”

“I’m curious why Dis still lets you live.”

“I’m my grandfather’s grandson; your comment is really uncalled for.”

“Don’t you know what you really are?”

“As I said, I am Karen.”

Mr. Hoffen raised his neck, revealing the cross necklace beneath:

“Take it off.”

“Alright.”

Karen reached over and removed the cross necklace from Mr. Hoffen’s neck.

Mr. Hoffen stared at Karen and said,

“Now, I’ll tell you what you truly are.”

“Worthy of a philosophy professor. I’m actually quite interested in discussing philosophy with you.”

“Hold it.”

“What?”

“Hold the cross with your hand.”

Karen looked at the cross necklace he had just taken off from Mr. Hoffen’s neck and didn’t move.

“What, afraid?”

“No.”

“Then hold it. If you hold it, you’ll know what you truly are.”

“Mr. Hoffen, treating divination as a hobby is fine, but overindulging can affect your real life.”

“If you’re that thing, if you hold it willingly, your soul will be annihilated.”

“Are you telling a story?”

“Yes, so go ahead, help me finish the story.”

Karen hesitated.

“What are you hesitating for? Hold it. Are you even deceiving yourself? I don’t know why Dis still lets you live. Maybe he’s just grown old, too old...”

Mr. Hoffen’s eyes widened suddenly,

because he watched Karen, who was sitting right in front of him, clutch the cross in his left hand.

One second,

three seconds,

ten seconds;

half a minute passed.

After holding the cross, Karen remained motionless.

Mr. Hoffen propped himself up on the bed, trying to sit up, but at that moment, Karen suddenly leaned forward, exclaiming, “Whoa!”

“Ah!”

Startled, Mr. Hoffen lost his balance and fell back onto the bed, but he continued to stare at Karen, in disbelief.