Becoming an Oni in this land of illusion

Chapter 60

Sofia observed Stella as she comforted Sakura, and couldn't help but feel a sense of injustice. When she had first exposed her vulnerable side to Stella, there was no solace or consolation offered, only a facade of sympathy that appeared to be manipulative. It was hard for her to not feel envious of the genuine compassion being shown towards Sakura.

But she knew that it wasn't entirely fair to blame Stella. After all, Sakura's situation was pitiable, and if Sofia was a beast, then Sakura was merely human. They had both experienced a difficult childhood, yet their coping mechanisms were vastly different. Sofia had become fiercely independent, while Sakura was still hoping to be saved by someone else.

In any case, Sofia came to the conclusion that Sakura was a naive person who believed that a knight in shining armor would come to her rescue. But in this case, she was right since Shirou would save her.

"Ibaraki, are you okay?" Marisa asked softly, casting a worried glance at Ibaraki. Ibaraki rubbed Marisa's head and assured her that she was fine.

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Nyx observed the scene, her gaze lingering on Stella as memories from her past life flooded her mind. Sofia had confided in her that even Stella had tried to take advantage of her and showed no intention of helping her with her PTSD. However, Nyx recognized that this timeline was different.

Sofia had only come to appreciate Stella's concern after she had fully claimed her as hers. And now, Stella was providing the comfort and care that Sofia had once longed for from someone who had done nothing to help her, while Sofia had meticulously planned and schemed to receive the compassion she craved.

Nyx made a spontaneous decision to stick by Sofia's side, and although Sofia was surprised by the sudden gesture, she didn't say anything. Marisa observed the situation and opted to join them, sensing that Sofia needed some cheering up.

As they walked away, Nyx cast a final glance at Stella and couldn't help but scoff at her actions.

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The three of them sat on the self-made bench, watching the serene scenery of the beach. The waves crashing against the shore created a soothing rhythm that could calm anyone down.

Ibaraki broke the silence, "Marisa, why did you drag me out here?" she asked, sounding genuinely confused.

Marisa didn't answer immediately but instead hugged Ibaraki tightly. Nyx followed suit and hugged her from the other side. The sudden embrace caught Ibaraki off guard, but she felt comforted by their warmth.

"Marisa?" Ibaraki questioned, feeling a lump form in her throat as tears welled up in her eyes.

"It's okay, Ibaraki. It's hard, isn't it?" Marisa whispered, her voice full of empathy.

Nyx chimed in, "It's okay to feel sad, Ibaraki. You did a good job holding everything together and acting like a responsible adult."

Ibaraki's confusion turned to despair as her tears continued to flow. "I, I don't understand... Why am I crying?" she stuttered, trying to control her sobs.

"It's okay, Ibaraki. Let it all out," Marisa reassured her.

"I did my best, I'm an adult already. Yet, why do I need her to spoil me? I want hugs too. I want her to tell me that I did my best. Not only that, but I desperately wanted her to notice it, yet..." Ibaraki trailed off, unable to continue as her tears continued to stream down her face.

Ibaraki's heart sank as she realized the truth about her relationship with Shuten. All this time, she had believed that Shuten was her most trusted person, someone who truly cared for her. But now she saw the truth – their relationship was merely that of a slave to her master. Shuten had never spoiled her or shown any affection because she was not commanded to do so. Ibaraki felt foolish for believing in a relationship that was based on power rather than genuine care.