Chapter 372.1
Katie observed the Anika girls engaged in various conversations, paired up in twos. Despite the distance, she couldn’t discern the details, yet the general tone hinted at a spectrum of emotions—complaints, laughter, and casual chatter. It was apparent that the gravity of the current situation had eluded most of them.
In stark contrast, Katie had immersed herself in the complexities of life beyond the palace walls, exposed to a different reality. News of the city’s lockdown and rumors of merchants facing adversity had reached her ears, adding a layer of seriousness to her understanding. Just when the weight of these concerns pressed upon her, a messenger arrived, casting doubt on Sang-je’s ostensibly benign intentions.
Yet, Katie found herself isolated in her apprehensions. The other Anikas perceived the palace as an impregnable sanctuary, indifferent to the potential repercussions beyond its confines.
Reflecting on the loss of her friends, Katie couldn’t shake the ominous feeling that Sang-je’s interference might have led to more unnoticed, unjust deaths. A shiver ran down her spine at the thought.
Sighing, she shifted her gaze and noticed a lone Anika in tears. Upon entering the palace, Katie had witnessed the same Anika being restrained by a priest, her anguish palpable. Overhearing whispers nearby, she learned of a family illness that kept the distraught Anika from complying. Initially surrounded by a few sympathetic peers, the weeping girl now stood abandoned, the others seemingly oblivious to her persistent cries.
Speculating on the reluctance of others to console the inconsolable, Katie grimaced. Witnessing the lack of genuine support reminded her of her own past shortcomings, and a pang of shame washed over her.
Witnessing Ann’s tears stirred a deep sense of pity within Katie. She could empathize with the profound worry that accompanied concern for ailing family members. Imagining herself in Ann’s shoes, with a sick child in tow, Katie knew that her own heart would have shattered. Moved by a surge of compassion, she rose quietly and approached the weeping Anika.
“Calm down, Anika Ann. If you continue crying like this, you’ll only exhaust yourself,” Katie offered gently, extending a supportive hand. Ann, puzzled by this unexpected gesture from someone with whom she had never even exchanged formal greetings, looked up.
“If your family is unwell, the worry must be overwhelming,” Katie spoke with genuine concern, her eyes conveying sincerity. Ann, in turn, tightly grasped Katie’s offered hand.