I've lived in the peaceful little village of Deli for as long as I can remember-seventeen years now. Ever since I was around one year old, my parents abandoned me. But Grandma Sann Nary took me in with warmth and deep compassion, raising me like her own daughter.
Grandma always tells me,
"Parents never truly abandon their children. There must have been a reason they had to leave for a while."
She often repeats that as she tells me how she found me, how she felt pity for me, and how her love grew strong enough to adopt me as her own.
She said she found me near the sea, and that's why she gave me the name Marina-inspired by the calmness of the blue ocean and its soothing embrace.
Even though I have a sharp nose, wide expressive eyes, and a rather large nose bridge, the people of the village treat me with kindness, like any ordinary girl. They've always cared for me tenderly, without ever making me feel different.
Our village lies at the far edge of the Kingdom of Matgasa, near the dense Hara Forest and beside the vast Marlin Sea. Most of the villagers make their living by fishing, logging, or farming-working hard day by day to sustain their families.
Grandma Sannary and I make our living by selling fish. By the time I turned fourteen, I started doing small jobs around the village-whatever I could manage-to earn extra money and help Grandma more. That's how we live our daily life, simply yet happily, side by side.
The king of Matgasa, King Saryan, has always been a kind-hearted ruler-someone who truly watches over his people with compassion and care.
However, ten years ago, war broke out with the neighboring Kingdom of the Demon. Although the war ended after five years, the king's health has never fully recovered since then, and the people remain worried about him to this day.
Even so, under his rule, the Kingdom of Matgasa has remained safe and peaceful... for now.
Grandma Sannary: "Mari dear, it's already morning-time to get up."
Marina: "Okay, Grandma... Just a moment, I'll get up soon. I'll fold up my bed first."
Every morning, Grandma is the one who gently wakes me up. Since she goes to the market in the morning and prepares things at night, she always makes time to sew clothes for me by hand.
Grandma Sannary: "After you're ready, we'll head to the city today. I've already packed the fish and some crops we'll be taking to sell."
Marina: "Oh-are we leaving suddenly, Grandma? You didn't mention anything yesterday."
Grandma Sannary: "That's right, dear. I only heard this morning. Chief of the village came by and told me there's an opportunity to send fish to the city today. Traders are heading there, and carts with guards have been arranged. You know the city pays a good price for fish and crops like ours. So I thought I'd like to go together to sell our goods."
Marina: "Alright, Grandma! I'll get ready right away."
Since our village lies on the border of the kingdom, it usually takes around three days to reach the city.
The reason we're assigned guard soldiers is because the path crosses through dense forests-where bandits and raiders are known to lurk.
As soon as I finished getting ready, Grandma had already prepared breakfast.
Grandma Sannary:
"Dear, breakfast is ready. After we eat, we'll head to the carts. Come, let's eat now."
After finishing our breakfast, we headed toward the gathering point for the carts.
As soon as people saw us, the merchants and villagers who were also joining the journey came over and helped us load our goods.
Just then, my childhood friend Herry spotted me and came running over, waving his hand.
Herry:
"Mari! So you're coming too this time! Well then, I've got myself a travel partner!
Don't worry-if anything happens along the way, I'll protect you."
Herry always says things cheerfully.
He's been by my side since we were little-always helping me, always kind.
Now that we're older, he's tall and strong, with bright eyes, a handsome long face, and a gentle heart.
Me:
"Alright then, Herry. I'll remember what you said.
If anything happens, I'll be relying on you."
Herry gave me a playful smile as if to say, "Of course, no problem."
Before the carts left, everyone finished their preparations.
When the guards arrived, some of my friends in the village also came by to say goodbye.
Friends:
"Mari, take care on the road, okay?
We heard the city has really beautiful things!
Don't forget to bring us back a little gift! We'll be waiting!"
Marina:
"Alright. You guys take care too, okay?
I won't be around for a few days, so please be careful even more while I'm gone."
Friends (teasing):
"Ooooh! Is that worry we hear?
Or are you just excited because you get to travel with handsome Herry?
Something might happen on the road... you never know!"
They laughed and giggled as they teased me.
Mari (laughing):
"You brats! Herry and I are just childhood friends-nothing more.
You're just jealous because you can't have what you can't reach."
I smiled back at them joyfully and waved as we left the village.
There were fifty carts total, lined up neatly for the journey.
Around forty foot soldiers and guards had been assigned to protect us.
Our cart was the twentieth in the line.
We left the village, crossing through the dense Harah forest, and began our journey to the city.
The three-day trip passed without any danger or incident.
At last, the capital city of Martin came into view.
Herry:
"Mari, look! There's city! When we get there, during the sightseeing time, come find me. Let me know where you want to open your shop."
Marina:
"We haven't even arrived yet, and you're already talking about starting to look around the city.
I can really count on you."
Herry smiled broadly and said,
"No, no. I'll tell you after the work is done.
Alright, we've arrived at the gate. Let's check the goods and then get off."
As soon as the cart stopped, Herry jumped down and helped Grandma too.
Although Herry and I are the same age, he already has his own business.
He has an artistic vision and decorates his clay pots in unique ways-making them works of art instead of ordinary vessels.
Because of this, his pots sell well compared to the usual ones.
The gate guard announced,
"Passengers and merchants, please disembark briefly. I must inspect your goods."
After inspecting the goods, the guards allowed us to enter the capital city.
Once inside the city, the soldiers went to the city office to report to the city officials.
The merchants then each went to their respective shops to set up.
The capital city is a place where culture and religion flourish.
The people believe in the protection of the Ripa and hold strong faith in their religion.
In the city center stands the grand and majestic Temple if the Ripa.
The capital city is vast, magnificent, and bustling with people.
Grandma Sannary:
"My dear, you're staring at so much. Please pack up the goods for me."
Marina:
"Ah, yes, Grandma. I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed."
After Herry finished arranging his own goods, he said,
"Marina, I'll help you too."
Marina:
"You've been working hard enough already. Let me handle this part."
Herry:
"Alright, with my strength, don't worry. I have more than you thought."
After helping, Herry smiled, waved goodbye, and left.
Grandma Sannary:
"My dear, since this is your first time in the city, don't wander off anywhere alone, alright? Always stay with me."
Marina:
"I won't go anywhere. I came to help you, Grandma."
Grandma Sannary:
"Did the village friends bring you any gifts? Sometimes when we rest, you cn go sightseeing. That boy, Herry, will be with you too."
I smiled softly and nodded,
"Yes, Grandma."
That evening, we finished setting up the shop.
Afterwards, we beautifully displayed the meat, fish, and fruits that we planned to sell in the morning.
After dinner and bathing, we rested for the night.
The morning arrived, and the early market hours passed smoothly. The preparation done in advance proved beneficial.
The market street was located in the northern part of the city, not far from the temple.
Because the city was bustling, even in the early morning, it was already crowded with people.
From the temple, the sound of chanting and temple bells resonated pleasantly, while city pigeons flew peacefully overhead.
The city was governed by the mayor, who maintained order through religious principles, fairness, and the law.
Grandma Sannary:
"My dear, I think today will be a good sales day. The way you've arranged the goods is truly beautiful. You yourself look lovely, so I believe sales will be better than last year."
Marina:
"That's not true, Grandma. How can I compete with the city folks?"
Grandma smiled and said,
"But I don't think anyone can rival your gentle smile, my dear."
I blushed and laughed shyly.
At that moment, a city soldier entered the market, clanging a long metal plate as a warning:
"All city residents and merchants, please listen carefully to the announcement."
The entire market quieted down and focused on the soldier.
The soldier continued,
"Soon, the mayor will inspect the market. This announcement is to remind everyone to keep their stalls neat and orderly for the mayor's visit."
Then Harry came running over.
Harry:
"Marina, did you hear? The Mayor is coming!"
Marina:
"Yes, I heard. But why are you running over in such a hurry? What about your shop?"
Harry:
"Don't worry about that. While I was fixing up my stall yesterday, the neighboring stall told me something."
Marina:
"What is it? Is it something important?"
Herry:
"Maybe not huge, but it could become serious... especially not for me, actually, for you, it's even more important. Come, follow me for a moment."
He tugged at Marina's arm, gently motioning to get her away, as if planning to inform Grandma first.
Herry (in a hushed voice):
"Listen, Marina... The Mayor has a good reputation-but he also has a darker side.
Every year, he organizes a market fair for merchants, that's true... but I've heard he also has a habit of inspecting newcomers in the city."
He paused, breathing heavily with concern.
Herry (continuing):
"And if he likes any woman during the inspection, he can abuse his power... Sometimes, those women are taken away and sold as servants-or worse."
Marina (shocked):
"Is that even possible? That sounds like a rumor meant to ruin his reputation."
Herry:
"Maybe it is, maybe it isn't... but I'm worried about you, Marina.
So please... be cautious. Don't attract attention too much. And if anything strange happens-anything-promise me you'll tell me right away."
Marina (softly):
"Alright... I will be careful. You go back to your stall too, okay?"
Harry gave her a worried look, then raised his hand in farewell and walked off.
---
The Mayor's name was Tantarya Marts. People said he was a just leader who didn't discriminate among citizens.
But there were rumors in the city that, unlike the general population, certain groups-especially the so-called wild folk, people not fully accepted as human-were occasionally admitted into the city under questionable circumstances.
Marina, being a girl of humble origins from the outer regions, belonged to that uncertain space.
As the mayor's entourage began arriving, shouts to clear the road echoed through the market streets.
With the city mayor's presence drawing near, a hushed stillness settled over the once-bustling market. Chatter faded to whispers as the townsfolk respectfully quieted down.
The city mayor made his way through, inspecting each stall as he passed, pausing to observe and occasionally ask questions.
When he reached our stall, he stopped.
Mayor:
"This stall is beautifully arranged-the fish, the vegetables, everything looks appealing. I wonder who set it up so well?"
At once, Grandma Sannary beamed with pride.
Grandma Sannary:
"My granddaughter Marina did it, Your Excellency."
The mayor turned toward me with a soft smile and eyes that lingered.
Mayor:
"Marina... a lovely name. And such elegance. Ah, not only diligent but a beautiful young lady as well. That smile... it's rather charming, almost heart-stirring."
I recalled what Harry had warned me about, and though my heart skipped a beat, I returned the smile and said:
Marina:
"Thank you for your kind words, Your Excellency."
The mayor stepped closer, his voice still smooth:
Mayor:
"It's not mere flattery, my dear. I speak only the truth.
If a young woman like yourself would consider joining the Royal Household, we could arrange a proper position for you-something fitting for your talents. What do you say?"
Before I could respond, Grandma quickly spoke with eager gratitude:
Grandma Sannary:
"What an honorable offer, Your Excellency! Truly, such a blessing!
But, if I may, I'd like Marina to speak for herself. I trust her judgment."
She looked over at me with a warm yet expectant expression.
In my heart, I knew what I should say... yet Harry's warning echoed strongly in my mind.
I didn't want to outright refuse, but neither could I accept without caution.
Marina (carefully):
"Your Excellency, I would like some time to consider."
The mayor's expression changed ever so slightly. His smile faltered, a hint of dissatisfaction appearing in his eyes.
Mayor:
"Why hesitate to accept a generous offer from someone who truly appreciates your skills?
With me, you would have opportunities beyond what this market can offer."
I still didn't give a direct answer. Instead, I requested permission to visit and observe the royal residence before making my decision.
To that, he reluctantly agreed.
As evening arrived, Grandma and I closed the stall and began preparing it once again-this time for the annual merchant's fair that would be held the following morning.
Grandma Sannary:
"Marina dear, go to the mayor's residence before it gets too dark. You'll be back late, perhaps even by midnight."
Marina:
"Yes, Grandma. I'll go now."
After everything was tidied up, I made my way toward the mayor's mansion.
I had never set foot near the mayor's residence before. And the moment I arrived, I was stunned by its magnificence.
Even without stepping inside, the beauty of the grounds took my breath away.
The mansion's compound walls were towering, lined with elegant brickwork and decorated with intricate carvings. Neatly pruned shrubs and well-tended flowers adorned the pathways, giving the place an air of nobility and wealth.
As I stood at the entrance, one of the palace guards approached me.
Palace Guard:
"You must be the girl summoned by His Excellency the Mayor. Please, come in."
I followed as he guided me along the paved path. What had looked beautiful from afar now felt overwhelmingly grand up close.
Palace Guard (again):
"Right this way, young lady. The Mayor is expecting you."
Inside, attendants and servants moved gracefully, each one seemingly assigned a specific duty.
The mayor sat on an ornate chair in the central hall, exuding authority and composure. He looked like someone used to power-and the silence in the room only magnified his presence.
With a slight gesture, he called over a nearby female attendant.
Mayor:
"This young lady is the one I invited. She's here to observe the palace and consider a position.
Make sure she understands the duties and everything she should know.
Keep her comfortable and answer all her questions."
Attendant:
"Yes, Your Excellency."
The woman bowed respectfully, then turned to me with a gentle smile, signaling for me to follow her.
The female attendant guided me through the mansion's inner courtyard, showing me every corner-my living quarters, the benefits I would receive, and the duties I'd be expected to fulfill. After the tour, she looked around cautiously and leaned a little closer.
Attendant:
"Listen carefully, little sister. It's very rare for the Mayor to personally summon someone like this.
He must have something in mind. Be careful. That's all I can tell you."
With clear worry in her voice, she glanced around once more before quietly returning to the Mayor.
Shortly after, the Mayor returned to address me.
Mayor:
"So, Marina, how do you feel about everything?"
Marina:
"The living conditions and the benefits are very comfortable, Your Excellency."
Mayor:
"Then... have you made your decision?"
Though I had lingering doubts, I didn't want to burden Grandma any further.
And this position, as far as work goes, didn't seem so bad.
So I replied:
Marina:
"Yes, Your Excellency. I've made up my mind. I will accept the position."
Mayor:
"Good. It's already late this evening, so you should stay here tonight.
Tomorrow morning, we'll send someone to collect your belongings.
And of course, you'll have the chance to say goodbye to your grandmother as well."
Everything he said seemed so smooth-so reassuring-that I agreed to stay the night.
And so, I left for the room the head maid had shown me and rested for a while.
As night fell, the head maid came to call me for dinner. After eating and taking a bath, I began preparing for bed when the maid suddenly returned, informing me:
Maid:
"The Mayor has summoned you for a conversation."
She then escorted me to the Mayor's private chambers.
The Mayor was seated beside the window, casually sipping a cup of fruit wine.
Mayor:
"Come in, Marina. Sit wherever you feel most comfortable.
Ah-bring something to eat and drink for her as well,"
he instructed the maid, then turned to me again.
Mayor:
"So, how is everything? Are you settling in well?"
Marina:
"Yes, Your Excellency. Everything is going well."
Mayor:
"Good. Now, let me tell you the real reason you're here-the main duty you'll be taking on."
At that moment, the maid returned, placing a cup and a tray of food before me. She bowed politely and left the room.
Mayor:
"But before we begin-please, have a drink first."
I took a small sip and replied calmly:
Marina:
"Yes, Your Excellency. I'm listening."
A slight smile appeared on the Mayor's face as he leaned forward.
Mayor:
"Your primary duty, Marina... is to become my doll."
His smile widened faintly as he said it.
Before I could respond, a wave of dizziness washed over me.
My head began to spin. My eyes grew heavy.
And just like that, I collapsed onto the chair...
...as the world around me went completely dark.
Next Episode (Herry)