Fallen Guest Empire (IV)
The plan was indeed meticulous.
Being next door, Fu Qian hadn't been able to observe Dean Glen's expression very closely, but he understood Mariana's intentions quite well.
It was clear that the guide had an important role beyond leading them to find the person: she was also there to serve as a control group.
She had deliberately placed Glen's reaction to her methods right in front of Esther, making it difficult for the latter to find a reason to ignore it.
If even someone like him couldn't explain what was happening, then this scene would become an inescapable knot in the reality before her.
Esther would have to accept the other possibility Mariana had presented.
All these thoughts flashed through Fu Qian's mind in an instant. The process of reaching that conclusion had felt as natural as breathing.
Mostly because he'd done things like this far too many times himself.
And from the looks of it, Mariana's plan was working well.
"There are times when I can remember vague fragments."
Esther watched Glen for a long time. Only when the normally authoritative man unconsciously averted his gaze did she finally speak again.
"Things that were fantastical and evil, but there were also stars protecting ordinary people..."
"Where did you live there?"
"An orphanage, in a tall, gloomy old building."
This time, Esther answered almost instantly.
"Was there anyone there who made you feel warm lately?"
Exchanging a glance with her companion, Mariana seemed quite pleased with the answer.
"...There was. I don't remember what she looked like. She seemed to be a visitor... not someone from the orphanage..."
Esther's words came haltingly, as if her memories were slowly returning.
"She didn't want us to call her by her name, but by a special title. But