My steps were heavy. Before I knew it, I found myself consciously focusing on my breath, taking slow inhales and exhales. Even the position of my tongue seemed to require careful thought. It was awful. How could Ennen put me through such a trial?

Just a few hours ago, it had been a blissful time. I had the chance to see my precious daughter again after such a long time, and we even got to attend the New Year's greetings ceremony together. For a young woman in her teens, such an event could be dull and burdensome, but I couldn’t …