It had been a while since I visited Bioro Village, and the place was nearly unrecognizable. The once dilapidated houses looked well-maintained, and the villagers seemed to have a bit more spring in their step. From inside the carriage, Chloe looked out and murmured quietly, “It’s completely different from a few months ago.”

There was a hint of melancholy in her voice. I gently ruffled her hair, trying to comfort her. After a moment, the coachman called out loudly.

“We’ve arrived at the village chief’s house, sir.”

“Understood.”

I moved to step out of the carriage, and Chloe started to …