This time, Ellin did not sleep for very long. She woke after just an hour.
"Ellin, you're awake?"
Ayaka smiled.
"Yes. Thank you, Ayaka."
Ellin smiled. From her expression, it was clear that she had worked through a great deal and felt much more at ease.
"You're welcome. As long as you're all right."
Ayaka still wore a gentle smile, her eyes filled with nothing but Ellin.
"Phew..."
Ellin let out a long breath.
The confusion and turmoil in her heart had eased considerably.
She sat cross-legged on the wooden floor and closed her eyes, trying to see whether she could sense the power of wishes.
But the very next instant, as she cleared her mind, her body suddenly trembled!
A look of bewilderment appeared on her face, then turned to astonishment.
At that moment, she heard countless voices. They traveled along the threads of the power of wishes, echoing in her mind.
"Honey, guess what? I gave Lady Sky-Clearing a mask today, and I didn't charge her!"
"Mom! Lady Sky-Clearing came to my stall to eat today. She wanted to pay, but I wouldn't take her money."
"Dad, guess what? Lady Sky-Clearing played ring toss at my stall today. She's truly a goddess-she threw a hundred rings, and every single one landed."
"But even then, I didn't charge her! She's the best goddess there is. How could I take her money?"
"And Lady Sky-Clearing really is the gentlest goddess..."
"Even though she landed all hundred rings, she was only playing for fun. She only took one doll and gave it to Lady Kamisato."
"Good, that's right... Lady Sky-Clearing is the best goddess there is. She's done so much for us. How could we possibly take her money?"
"Besides... today is Lady Sky-Clearing's birthday..."
"I heard Lady Sky-Clearing has been