"If possible," Anastasia's voice came from within, decisive yet dull, "I want... to leave with you."
Even as she said this, she continued to grow.
Her original form had already been completely covered by the tree—or rather, her body had completely transformed into wood.
When Iver looked at her now, he could no longer discern any trace that she had once been a girl within the outline of the towering tree that continued to grow. Even her voice had become "mature," as though covered by a thick layer of leather. It was duller and more distorted than before.
Perhaps it was because she trusted him, or perhaps because she liked him.
Or perhaps it was because of her yearning for the world and her anticipation of the unknown. She had not even asked what Iver intended to do before giving him her answer.
Iver smiled faintly and drew three Tarot Cards, holding them between the fingers of his right hand.
"—The Fool. Ignorant and fearless, revering the future, pursuing dreams, and moving forward freely. Even knowing it is meaningless, still stubbornly going his own way.
"—The Empress. Carefree, leisurely, nourishing, and gentle. Possessing great selfless love and enjoying caring for others. Yet overly tolerant and lacking principles.
"—The Hermit. Wanting to illuminate the world, yet trapped in place. Content with solitude and willingly withdrawing from the world. Lighting himself up to illuminate others. Proud, inferior, cold in manner, and lacking passion."
Iver slightly fanned out the three cards and showed them to Anastasia. "Which one do you like more? And which one do you think suits you best?"
At that, Anastasia fell into hesitation for the first time.
It was like taking a psychological test and feeling that every option was about the same.
She knew that all these options