Normal me Malaysia” book one ”

NORMAL ME

STORY

As a writer, you know more about love than anyone else.

You have lived through its many faces through your characters.

I was the unlucky one...

I never truly knew love the way it was supposed to be.

Maybe I lived through too many stories filled with false hope—where feelings were built on pity and exhausting idealistic principles the other person never truly believed in.

Like sacrifice.

Believing that anyone who was good enough could make me happy, as long as their feelings were sincere.

I was never easy to reach.

But I was foolishly kind.

And in the end, the battles I fought alone helped me overcome my weaknesses… while taking their price from the one thing I was most proud of—my personality.

The part of me that never attracted attention the way my material, physical, or artistic value did.

That is why I wear the mask.

This golden body and all its precious details have been my curse since childhood.

It affects everyone who looks at it, turning admiration into possession, no matter the cost.

Or worse—the people who look at me with disgust because of how many others desire me… and pity because, in their eyes, I am nothing more than a golden statue whose value ends at someone else's gaze.

Yet I managed to protect myself all these years.

But the curse evolved into something deeper.

The inability to find someone who truly cared about me.

Still, I believe I was blessed with God's special care.

Everything the curse took from me—my physical health, my mental peace, the spiritual burden no one else could understand—was somehow replaced with a greater purpose.

Immediately after graduation, I gained a real family and immense wealth.

I became the second-richest person on Earth.

And through my art, scientific achievements, and humanitarian work, I somehow reached a place that once seemed impossible.

I was nominated for the Nobel Prizes in Literature and Peace in the same year.

But I never stopped fighting for my true self.

That innocent child who gives love and care without end.

The child driven by faith in the most important human value.

A value that cannot be compared to anything a person could ever desire.

---

CHAPTER ONE

BAD INFLUENCE

Inside a black limousine.

Highway — 7:00 A.M.

Mia: Are we really here?!

Thank you so much, "V."

The code name for Sherry June—symbolizing true beauty and a fighting spirit.

I still can't believe we're in California for Ray's event!

And we actually bought everything I always wanted.

And the best part? My precious VIP ticket has a watermark!

You're the best, my lady.

I feel like I'm dreaming…

If I am, please don't wake me.

We need snacks, though.

The prices here are insane.

June: I'm really sorry I can't come with you.

You remember the California laboratory opening is in a few hours. I have to be there… and there's a charity event tonight.

Genevieve will go with you.

And when you come back, please make sure Arwell gets his bath.

Kate has been postponing it lately.

That's not like her. She's responsible, so I depend on her.

There must be something occupying her mind.

I'm not making things harder for her, am I?

Mia rests her head sadly against the window.

Making things harder for her?

With what?

Arwell's bath?

You're actually doing her a favor. It'll get her away from the computer for a while and get her moving.

At our age, we worked for everything.

Now that we finally have the luxury we deserve, you want to worry about whether we're asking too much?

I was excited about him.

I only wanted to spend some time with you.

You need a vacation.

Really, Sherry June.

June smiles calmly.

It was just a passing interest.

We have to keep up with life.

You know my interests change quickly.

He really was a phenomenon, though…

Besides, I'm starting to prefer my golden shackles.

Now the world can envy me even more.

Mia: And he is still…

in your dreams, Venora.

You're not usually the one who dismisses spiritual messages.

June gently hugs her.

That's not true.

I haven't seen anything recently.

And I truly don't mean any offense. I'm not in a position to judge anyone.

I just hope we get a chance to meet him together.

Maybe even get his autograph.

It's not impossible anymore…

if that's what you want.

Mia smirks.

You know I finished the dress.

I'm breathing just to witness the beginning of Venora's eternal happiness.

But what will really make it happen…

is what's beneath that mask.

He's your type, after all.

Even if he is only a foggy attraction created by lighting…

Unlike you.

You're an entire world of fantasy.

A novel that could never be repeated.

June closes her eyes.

You're a loyal soul rider, Mia.

Don't look at me like that.

I need to focus on my speech.

Besides, you've arrived.

Time to get out of my car.

Genevieve will be waiting for you at the gate.

Be careful.

Enjoy every moment.

And go show off that dynamic look.

You know I'm talking to you, blonde.

Mia puts on her sunglasses.

See you on the other side, you raw piece of gold.

What are you looking at?

Yes…

My best friend.

The most influential person alive.

And I'm her bad influence.

Look again and you might regret it.

And don't worry about the speech.

You already have a Nobel in Literature.

My golden butterfly.

June watches Mia wave to Genevieve.

Genevieve raises her hand in response.

June leans back into her seat and opens her tablet.

June: Let's go, Sol.

Please.

---

Sol watching her serious expression through the rear-view mirror.

Are you sure you can't attend the party?

You could rebel for once.

Maybe walk onto the stage with him and write a new story.

I know you've been suffering from a severe loss of passion lately.

So what don't I know about Venora?

Why is she avoiding the only man who has actually captured her attention after rejecting countless leaders and influential people?

Someone even named a diamond black cat after Venora.

June tilts her head curiously.

Where did you hear that?

Sol hands her an article.

June: Using empathy as publicity.

What's new?

As material values decline with progress, emotion becomes the real investment.

The world has become pitiful.

People have lost their ability to think clearly.

Even courage has changed.

It isn't about resisting the current anymore.

Apparently, courage now means simply returning to the same stream as everyone else.

The thing is…

I was lucky enough to express everything inside me—my dreams, my beliefs—through words.

In my books.

At conferences.

In interviews.

And people listen every time I'm given the opportunity to speak.

But what about the part of me that needs to be seen?

Really seen?

I don't need applause anymore.

I don't need people to be impressed.

I need belief.

I need someone who believes in what I believe in.

I know Ray understands some of that.

His life has colors, music, and words…

but there is no real pulse behind them.

That's fame.

The feeling is never enough when you reach that many people.

And that emptiness is something you understand far too late.

You can't demand genuine love simply because you're famous.

If anything, fame may make you less deserving of it.

It doesn't matter how many people are fascinated by you.

Who is capable of looking beyond all of that?

Who can care about the person underneath?

Ray reminds me of something I hate seeing in myself.

Value without humanity.

The difference is…

I didn't help create this reality.

He did.

And that's why the emptiness continues.

Sol tries to comfort her.

You've always done so much for others.

Some people can never repay you enough.

June shakes her head gently.

That's not what I mean.

What I do for others makes me happier than it makes them.

But what I'm looking for…

no one can give me.

It has to find me somehow.

Until then…

I'll keep filling the emptiness with achievement.

---

THE CALIFORNIA LAB

Nina a beautiful model who once disliked June, but became one of her closest friends after June helped develop a treatment that saved her.

V… the laboratory is incredible.

I love it.

And I envy that aura of yours.

It suits your eyes perfectly.

June laughs.

Of course.

Oh—

My mother has called fourteen times.

And Professor Event Corey is here.

Could you take care of him for me?

I'm nervous enough already.

---

Mother: Sherry?

Your siblings and your aunt are watching you on television.

What is this place?!

The design looks like something from a science-fiction film.

You really built this?

I can't believe it.

So, in the end, all that talk about achieving everything wasn't nonsense.

But you're already in your thirties—

June with complete indifference.

It's still not enough for you?

And I'm still twenty-seven.

You should remember that, little brother.

I'm writing history here.

Brother: Four years.

And Venora rose from nothing.

Who would have expected that the tiny, frequently sick girl who saw strange things and believed in impossible ideas would eventually have a global influence?

June: I was never nothing.

I was always Venora.

The girl whose faith exceeded reality.

Mother: You should wear the laboratory coat again.

I like seeing you as a scientist.

June: Alright, Mom.

Everyone, I have to go.

I have a speech and—

Take care of yourselves.

I'll see you the day after tomorrow, God willing.

Goodbye.

Family: We're watching you.

Shine.

June: Deal.

Because I'm Auntie's favorite.

I love you.

And don't faint from being impressed after this.

See you soon.

---

THE CHARITY EVENT

Sol driving.

How was your day?

And the speech?

June sinks into her seat.

Exhausting.

But good.

Don't worry about me.

I just hope I don't disappoint anyone.

There are so many huge dreams attached to this committee.

So many expectations.

And some comments about the mask.

Sol smiles solemnly.

That's why I'm your favorite.

My soul is already contaminated.

Our energy is similar.

But what happens when you heal tomorrow?

You'll have to leave me.

Kate will probably prefer you over me.

June sits upright, offended.

That's cruel.

You're my favorite because you're Kate's father and legal guardian after Son.

Not because you have a curse like mine.

You don't even need my aura to make me feel bad.

That's twice today.

You know me better than this.

What's happening between you and Kate?

Maybe it's a misunderstanding.

I could explain.

I would never hurt you or Kate.

Never.

Sol looks exhausted.

Kate knows I killed her mother.

June freezes.

Her expression changes completely.

June: She knows?

And you think…

I told her?

Why?

Sol: You're the only person who knew.

And Son is gone.

We're grateful you kept us close.

I can't understand how someone as kind and forgiving as you could ever believe that someone like me deserves her love.

June: Stop the car.

Please.

Sol brakes.

June opens the door and steps out, overwhelmed by what she has just heard.

She disappears into the crowd.

---

THE STRANGER

June walks through the side street, still shaken.

Then a masked stranger appears.

Stranger: Are you alright?

Your body feels cold.

There's a clinic at the end of the street.

I can help you get there.

June: It's nothing.

It happens sometimes.

I know it sounds strange, but it's normal for me.

It's over.

Stranger: Thank God.

For a moment, I thought the phoenix was burning.

I'm not usually a fan of masks…

except in wrestling and movies.

June: You're wearing one.

Stranger: Oh.

Right.

I came out without much protection.

I wanted to see you.

June: Your voice sounds familiar.

Stranger: Sorry.

It is.

But not like your mask.

June: I don't believe this.

Stranger: Believe it.

You're the one who controls miracles through dreams.

That's what the chosen ones do.

Some of us simply handle it better than others.

June: Why are you speaking with that poisonous tone, Ray?

Ray: Because you've made me miserable for a long time.

June: I'm sorry…

Do I know you?

This scenario is becoming painfully predictable.

Ray: Really?

You still don't realize?

We've met before.

In a dream.

In the forest house.

We even chose a password.

"The phoenix burns."

You were supposed to answer—

"To be reborn."

June stares at him.

June: Stop.

Don't even think you can manipulate me.

Ray: We're spiritually connected, V.

Since that meeting, you haven't been able to ignore it.

And I know what you think about Min.

I'm not as bad as you believe.

We're more alike than you think.

You've always been the person who believes in love and humanity.

You told me that refusing to judge people too quickly and allowing them a new page was the path you would follow.

No matter what others believed.

Because it makes you feel at peace.

June: Then I'm sorry.

I misunderstood you.

If you're telling the truth, you deserve honesty.

Where have you been all this time?

Ray: You can't assume I wasn't preparing like the rest of you.

And I believe Min's strictness finally makes sense to me.

Although he was certainly more flexible with the people he loved.

I've missed that passion of yours.

June: Marshall Son.

You're quite the flatterer.

Think whatever you want about me.

I still can't trust your sincerity.

All I know is that you seem capable of becoming whatever people expect from you.

How can I trust that?

And if you mention the dream again, I'll—

Dreams can guide us.

But they can also mislead us.

I'm not Son.

You need to understand that.

He is the Marshal of the Gift.

I'm the Marshal of the Curse.

Ray: You're right.

I've crossed a line.

A Marshal has responsibilities.

I'm the grandson of Min.

And I know Son as a family friend.

I wasn't flattering you.

I earned this position.

I'm sorry I wasn't there when you needed me.

But perhaps it wasn't the right time.

So why not let me introduce myself properly?

Am I invited to the party?

June hesitates.

Then reluctantly nods.

Ray: Thank you.

I appreciate it.

We could rent motorcycles.

That's common around here.

I may not get many chances to ride, especially at my age.

I know you love it too.

June: You're only thirty.

Ray: Thirty-three, actually.

Quite mature.

June: I know that side of you.

I'll pay.

You can repay me at the party.

Ray: Deal.

You haven't changed from the dreams at all.

How could I forget?

You're not easy to reach.

That's what makes you…

June: Forget that.

Reality is different from dreams.

If we're really alike, then you know what being different costs.

Isolation.

Confusion.

And countless experiences we missed because we were too busy being different.

Some things are better ignored from time to time.

Or we can simply take the tangible lesson—

whatever genuinely benefits us.

I don't want to be the bad influence.

Let's start again.

Sherry June.

Writer.

Geneticist.

Former admirer.

Ray laughs.

Former admirer?

Ray.

Humble singer.

Nice to meet you.

For everything else…

it really does feel like the first time.

June: Because it is.

---

THE MOTORCYCLES

June: Sherry June.

Sorry for making you wait.

Thank you, sir.

She tosses Ray the keys.

Two beautiful black motorcycles wait outside.

Ray catches his with ease.

June's eyes briefly reveal her admiration before she hides it.

Ray: I brought this for you before you could object.

I remembered you don't drink coffee.

June: Thank you.

There's no need.

I already bought a Ducati Panigale V4 S.

I've always wanted one.

The sound is classic.

She starts the engine.

Ray smiles.

Ray: The red Indian Scout looks better.

June: You're impossible.

Ray laughs.

June mounts her motorcycle gracefully.

June: Moderate speed.

Let's move.

---

For a while, neither of them speaks.

The road stretches ahead.

The wind moves June's scarf.

Ray watches her riding.

He had expected her to be reckless.

Instead, her control is almost professional.

Ray: June, be careful.

You can't trust a motorcycle the way you trust Inevit.

June: How do you know about Inevit?

She looks at him.

He knows things about me that I never show the world.

Ray steadies his motorcycle.

Their hands briefly meet.

June immediately pulls away.

June: Thank you.

Maybe we should keep a safe distance.

She looks toward the empty highway.

For one moment, everything becomes quiet.

June: I almost forgot what the curse was like.

For just a moment…

I felt normal.

Is this what belonging feels like?

Why does losing that feeling hurt so much?

Ray: You're right.

The connection between us is stronger than I expected.

June: You really are better with words than I am.

Ray: That hurts.

Is it really that cliché?

I can do better.

I just wish time would stop.

Everything is happening too quickly.

June: No.

You're better.

I always thought I was the person who used too many words.

Maybe I needed someone to tell me what was happening.

Someone should.

Otherwise, what's the point?

Ray: So that's why you do it for everyone else?

June: Maybe.

We chose this road, didn't we?

Did we really have to sacrifice everything for it?

Can we stop without everything collapsing?

Would we survive?

Ray: But what you're doing is too much, even for a Marshal.

What about you?

June removes her helmet.

The wind brushes her face.

June: Maybe searching for an ordinary life is a luxury I can't afford.

We can't stop trying.

It's part of who we are.

Perhaps I'll regret losing that helmet later.

But it's only a piece of plastic.

That's how I find balance.

Ray: The feeling of freedom…

That's the least we owe ourselves.

June: Freedom from what?

Ray: From losing sight of what actually matters.

I worry that I'll make the same mistake again.

That I'll lose sight of you.

That I'll forget my priorities.

June: What happened to Ash was fate.

Sometimes life gives us a heavier lesson than we were ready for.

We can't control everything.

What matters is what we choose afterward.

You chose not to turn away.

That tells me more about your humanity than anything else.

Don't let guilt consume years of your life.

Honor the best of those who are gone.

We're still human, even when life makes us feel extraordinary.

Ray: You really are a Guardian of God.

June laughs softly.

June: Soul rider?

Or just curious?

Ray: Both.

June smiles.

For a moment, she wonders if Ray is the final piece of a story she has been dreaming about.

Then—

Her smile disappears.

She looks ahead.

Smoke.

Emergency vehicles.

The upper floors of the hotel are filled with fire and chaos.

June: No…

No, no, no.

She throws down her helmet.

June: Genevieve!

Kate!

Sol!

Mia!

Mia, answer me!

---

THE FIRE

Genevieve runs toward her.

June: Where are they?

Where is everyone?

Genevieve: June, stop!

The emergency teams are handling it.

June: Let me go!

Please!

She tries to move toward the responders.

Genevieve holds her back.

June's face goes pale.

June: Mia…

Kate…

Sol…

Ray watches helplessly.

Ray: I'll handle this.

Stay with the paramedics.

Genevieve nods.

June trembles.

Something inside her begins to awaken.

June: Don't touch me.

Ray: It's okay.

June: You can't.

Ray notices the strange change in her condition and stops.

Genevieve looks at him.

Genevieve: She's always been a fighter.

But right now…

she needs you.

She has lost everything she was fighting for.

June closes her eyes.

What are you doing, body?

You will not become my prison while I'm still alive.

The curse is awakening.

The world around her seems to distort.

Her mind becomes overwhelmed by everything she has lost.

For the first time, she stops thinking about what should happen.

She thinks about what she is capable of.

If hatred is what you want from me…

then I will face it.

But I will do it by my rules.

June rises.

Her voice changes.

A powerful sound echoes through the surrounding area, leaving everyone stunned.

Ray remains focused on her.

June disappears from where she stood.

Then—

she appears near the entrance.

Ray runs after her.

She looks almost unrecognizable beneath the strange supernatural transformation of the curse.

Yet when her eyes find Ray…

there is still June behind them.

She looks toward the sky.

And finally drops to her knees.

For the first time in years…

she has no idea where she is supposed to go.

---

TWO HOURS EARLIER

THE HOTEL

Mia holds Kate's hand while Sol sits nearby, clearly having drunk more than he should.

Mia: What are you doing, Sol?

Didn't June tell you to stop drinking?

She'll be so disappointed.

And why are you smiling?

Kate looks at her father anxiously.

Kate: You didn't hurt her with your harsh words…

Did you?

Sol: I did.

I carried everything.

And then I let her go.

Kate: Why?

Sol: Because I'm a monster.

That's what monsters do.

They hurt the people who trusted them.

The people who believed in them.

The people who protected them.

The people who showed them kindness.

I'm sorry.

I love June.

I love her so much that I can't forgive myself for what happened.

I thought pushing her away would make her happier.

I was wrong.

I want to make it right.

Help me, Kate.

I don't know how to live with losing her.

June is my world.

Kate looks at Mia.

Kate: Drinking makes him foolish…

but honest.

I think June needs to know this.

I'm not grieving for someone I barely knew.

I'm worried about my sister.

And about the dreams I've been having about her.

She's the person who matters most to me.

And this family she built with so much love, courage, and patience…

that's what I'm protecting.

Mia takes the glass from Sol.

Mia: Where is she?

I can't breathe in a place like this.

Kate: What about Ray?

Did anything happen?

Did June suspect you went to meet him?

And what did he tell you about Mr. Min?

Mia: Nothing important.

And yes, he's his grandson.

June still doesn't know enough.

I wish Ray would earn her trust.

Kate: Her obsession with work isn't necessarily bad.

But it keeps her outside the picture.

Whatever happens next could have serious consequences.

No matter how persuasive Ray is, June hasn't given him herself.

She was prepared to give that trust to you, Mia.

Mia: It would be a waste of his abilities.

Kate: Mia…

You doubt yourself.

Why would he be better than you?

Mia: Even if June keeps denying that Ray means something to her…

his lies protected her from losing her world.

Maybe I wasn't enough.

Maybe Ray is better for June.

No.

I won't ruin June's classic story.

Kate pushes Mia's shoulder.

Kate: You're imagining things.

Do you remember who we're talking about?

It's Sherry.

She's an artist.

Artists are naturally affected by other artists.

It doesn't necessarily mean it's personal.

Ray being one of her followers could simply be coincidence.

I know everything you've both been through.

I know seeing her happy and stable is what you want.

Even I want that.

But she's the Marshal.

She'll deal with them eventually.

She's already a threat.

It's only a matter of time.

You know that.

We need to—

What's that sound?

Oh no.

That's our wing.

Mia: Kate!

I'm behind you.

Be careful!

Did we forget the protection?

Oh God…

Kate, what's wrong?

It's okay.

We can still fix this.

I need to record a message in case I don't make it.

Did you really have to say we're leaving?

I'm not ready.

I'm not ready to leave her.

Sol tries to stand.

Sol: Girls…

What's happening?

Is that fire?

Oh God.

---

OUR VIBE

FOUR YEARS AGO

E.N.S. Laboratory.

June had been working there as an intern.

She stares into the distance, still trying to process everything.

June: A man named Son Hong came to the laboratory.

He told me so many things.

But I don't remember that we met in a dream.

And I don't remember what he told me before.

Mia looks from June to the bodyguard and then toward the black limousine outside.

Mia: That means you have to leave with him.

I can't let you go alone.

June: What about your dream of stability?

And marrying your cousin?

Mia: Forget him.

He doesn't deserve me.

He wanted me to give up my inheritance because he couldn't accept having only one wife.

He even used my infertility against me.

I'd rather spend my money on you.

You're my family, June.

June lowers her head, smiling.

June: I don't want you to stop being the person who represents everything I belong to in this life.

I want us to continue this journey together.

And later, I'll help you find someone worthy of you.

But first, I need you to examine the inheritance documents.

Mr. Son gave me shares in his Malaysian investments.

He said everything would gradually become mine.

I want you to handle it.

I don't trust my parents with this.

I'll tell them about my decision myself.

Mr. Son promised me everything would be transparent.

I'll take them to Malaysia.

Then we'll travel to Australia.

I want to meet Mr. Min.

I promised I would fight with everything I have when the time comes.

And after that…

I'll disappear from the world for four years.

Can you handle that, Mia?

Mia smiles.

Mia: You really connect dreams to reality without limits.

June: Of course.

I confirmed everything with Mr. Son.

And he was the one who suggested Mr. Min.

Without me even telling him about my dream.

Will you study dream interpretation for me?

I want you to become my Flame Bearer.

My Marshal.

Eight or more dreams every day can't simply be coincidence.

I think I've already developed spiritual vision.

But it's not enough.

Mia: What?

June laughs.

Forget it.

Everything in its own time.

I heard his house is more like a resort.

---

FOUR YEARS LATER

The four years passed like hell.

June devoted herself to charitable work, becoming known for her kindness, courage, humility, determination, and extraordinary patience.

She studied.

She worked.

She learned new skills.

And when Min was present, he trained her beyond the limits she believed her body could endure.

The training changed her.

It sharpened her mind.

It transformed her writing.

And eventually, June became the extraordinary novelist the world would know.

Her work earned the Nobel Prize in Literature.

Instead of keeping the prize money for herself, she invested it into Son's humanitarian projects.

The impact reached education, healthcare, and employment.

Her influence grew.

Her name became global.

And eventually, her humanitarian work brought her recognition for the Nobel Peace Prize as well.

Mia remained beside her through it all.

She became the person responsible for June's spiritual side—interpreting dreams, signs, and visions.

But the years weren't peaceful.

Son's health deteriorated.

June returned to Malaysia.

For a while, she lived one of the quietest periods of her life.

Her dreams stopped.

The spiritual world became silent.

Then the silence broke.

A dark spiritual entity connected to negative energy became involved with Sol's family and threatened June.

Sol was forced to protect her during a violent confrontation.

June survived.

And for the first time, she successfully completed a spiritual cleansing.

Afterward, Son sent Min—the Flame Bearer he trusted.

But Min disappeared.

---

AUSTRALIA

ONE YEAR LATER

In Mia's luxurious apartment in Australia, June cooks while trying to keep pace with everything happening around her.

June: It's been a year since Min disappeared.

I thought I could break the seal without him.

The voice inside me has become stronger.

But I'm not worried.

It's only another path.

There will be other options.

I trust God to guide me toward another one.

Tell me we're actually progressing.

Mia drops the knife, exhausted.

Mia: We are.

June: Really?

How?

Don't tell me it's because of my spiritual energy.

I admit I'm not the same as before.

I've learned to control my fluctuations.

I've learned to resist their influence.

But it still requires an extraordinary amount of effort.

And I don't always succeed.

I can't see every card they're holding.

Maybe the mixture needs more milk.

What do you think?

Mia: Perfect.

The girls will love it.

She looks at the enormous amount of food.

Mia: All of this?

How long has it been since we last met?

June: Three years, eight months, and nineteen days.

Everything should be ready almost at the same time.

Did I cook too much?

I feel disappointed.

I planned so many things for us to do together.

I thought I wouldn't forget how to enjoy life after becoming a billionaire.

But with enormous gifts come enormous expectations.

And overwhelming responsibilities.

Mia: You're not indebted to anyone.

They never truly believed this was possible.

They were simply trying to be kind to you because everyone loves you.

You've already given them what they truly needed.

A secure future.

A chance to build the lives they dreamed of.

No one could give them more.

You give them opportunities.

You cook for them.

You send hundreds of messages every year.

You introduce them to people they never imagined meeting.

And that's before the financial support and gifts.

Your social world never stops.

You make new friends constantly, yet you remain loyal to the old ones.

That's more than enough.

Actually, it's too much.

When will you think about yourself?

Most of them are married now.

June places a hand on Mia's shoulder.

June: I understand.

Everyone's needs are different.

But isn't that what makes me a good friend?

I give what I can't receive.

Maybe I'm still that child waiting for someone to pat her head and say:

"Good job."

"You did well."

"You've worked hard."

"Now you can rest."

"Thank you."

"I love you."

Instead of criticizing me.

Arwell!

Come here, boy.

Welcome them for me.

I'm going to walk Arwell.

Maybe I'll meditate by the stream.

Don't wait for me for lunch.

I'll try to see if I can get a vision about Min.

I haven't slept properly in a week.

Enjoy yourselves.

Goodbye.

June leaves before Mia can answer.

Mia: June…

I shouldn't have ruined her excitement.

I'll follow her.

---

THE STREAM

June lies beneath a massive tree, looking at the natural beauty around her.

Australia has always been one of the places that helped her escape despair.

June: I'm grateful to be back, Arwell.

This place is incredible.

I feel like a Disney princess.

Did you ever imagine I'd actually live inside details from the stories I loved?

I always believed there were gifts.

Abilities.

Magic.

Maybe not exactly the way books describe them…

but my spiritual side has always felt extraordinary.

Imagine if I could conquer the world with mercy and kindness.

Maybe that's where it begins.

Maybe it's possible.

Sometimes I feel like I could close my eyes…

and open them again in that old hell.

The emptiness.

The losses.

Everything I had to survive.

But when I remember those days, I remember something else.

I wasn't alone.

God was there.

Thank You.

June closes her eyes.

June: Now things are different.

I can fight back.

Let's see what I can see.

What is it, Arwell?

Yes, priests use chants.

But I'm not a priest.

And music can overwhelm me.

Sometimes it exhausts my emotions.

I only want peace.

Sorry, boy.

The music player won't help.

You're clever, though.

Where did you learn that?

Kate?

She probably walks you while listening to Mozart.

Alright.

Let's meditate.

You guard me.

I'll pet you later.

---

Mia carefully walks down the slope.

Mia: June?

June doesn't respond.

Mia: June!

Arwell begins barking.

Mia runs toward her.

June's eyelids finally move.

She wakes, breathing heavily.

Mia immediately embraces her.

Mia: Didn't I tell you not to throw yourself into the unknown?

We don't know the rules of that world.

What would I do if I lost you?

What would I do without you?

Why do you keep doing this if you don't care about yourself?

Think about me.

June: I'm sorry.

I always act without thinking.

You're the one who cares.

I'm not worthy of someone as loyal as you.

I'm a terrible person.

Mia's phone rings.

The caller ID reads:

The Raccoon.

Mia's nickname for Genevieve.

Mia: What?

Genevieve: Where are you?

Why did you leave alone?

Tell me where you are.

I'm coming.

Mia: No need.

We're coming back.

June is with me.

She's fine.

Genevieve: Your friends are here.

Mia: Tell them we're near the house.

We'll be back soon.

Take care of them.

They're June's precious guests.

Genevieve: What's wrong?

You sound sick.

Mia: Goodbye, you grumpy raccoon.

Mia hangs up.

She helps June stand.

Mia: I'm the one who should apologize.

I'm trying to be realistic with a girl who changed reality simply by believing humanity could become better.

I don't believe in fairies.

I don't believe in eternal happiness.

I don't believe in true love.

And I don't believe goodness will always survive in this world.

But I believe in you.

And if you're such a terrible person…

why are you the Marshal?

June smiles.

June: Because being good isn't about being admired by everyone.

Mia: You really won't stop pushing yourself into hell for other people, will you?

Why?

June: Because I want to deserve what I've been given.

I want to deserve your unconditional love.

I'm trying to repay that debt.

It's how I thank God in the best way I know.

And I know you won't stop protecting me.

So I'll try to become someone worthy of your efforts.

Mia shakes her head.

Mia: There you go.

You win another round.

Fine.

Truce.

But we're doing this together.

Don't you dare rush into anything alone again.

Leave the first step to me.

I'll make it worth it.

---

THE NEXT DAY

Mia yawns as she walks downstairs.

June is already organizing the kitchen with Jo, the house manager, while playing chess with Genevieve.

June: Good morning.

Did you help them clean before they left?

Mia: Good morning.

June moves a rook.

Breakfast is ready.

They helped a lot.

Although your threatening tone was slightly more direct than necessary.

Mia: I know you're telling the truth.

But I also know you consider standing in the kitchen with you and chatting to be "helping."

June: They're good people.

You know that.

They supported me more than my real family ever did.

Mia points toward June's phone.

It is ringing.

Mia: I'll continue with the grumpy raccoon.

Your situation is hopeless.

You only have a knight.

June places breakfast on the table and walks toward the balcony.

June: I'll rely on you.

Good luck.

Mr. Son.

---

June: I'm fine.

I'm taking my medication regularly.

Yes.

The report contains everything.

I wanted to ask you something, Mr. Son.

If I'm allowed to interfere…

Ray.

The singer.

Is he really the heir of the Torch?

I thought only the Marshal had the right to choose the successor.

But you left the decision to Min.

And he chose someone I don't know.

He's still only a dream in my mind.

I don't mind if Ray is one of the Followers.

It would honor me if he was truly Min's choice.

I'll be completely transparent with you.

During my training, I often felt as though Min was trying to control me more than train me.

You know more about me than he does.

But someone like Ray…

I might drown.

We're too different.

I don't want him contaminating my world.

Mia: All this negative thinking about one person must mean something.

Maybe it's the threat inside you.

June: Perhaps.

I'll deal with it.

Don't worry, old man.

We'll meet in Singapore soon.

Goodbye.

Let's eat, June.

Mia tastes the food.

Mia: Try this.

It's delicious.

And stop thinking so much.

Maybe Ray is just a marketing image.

Maybe there is no real identity behind him.

He might simply become whatever people expect him to be.

I know the ambiguity around him could overwhelm someone sincere like you.

But maybe we don't know everything.

You know me.

I'm not the sensitive one in this relationship.

That's your role.

I don't particularly care about Ray.

It's not as if I think he's perfect for you.

But he was your type in that dream.

So I'll accept the risk.

We don't have many options.

June smiles softly.

I'm the Marshal.

I'm not supposed to think selfishly.

Even if the Torch coronation fails, I won't choose someone who isn't brave enough to be himself.

But I'm not worried.

You're here.

Genevieve.

Kate.

Sol.

Mr. Son.

Lisa.

Arthur.

Corty.

Alexa.

Lily.

Shaheen.

And all the other Followers.

Slow down, Mia.

Mia nearly chokes.

I'm fine.

You won't have to worry.

I'll always be your first line of defense.

Nothing will pass through me.

Nothing will threaten you while I'm here.

But I want you to promise me something.

If you ever wake up one day in a world where I'm no longer part of it…

remember that I'll always remain part of you.

You'll notice it in your style.

In the way you speak.

I know you'll become stronger.

So don't worry.

You're extraordinary, just like the phoenix.

June stares at her in disbelief.

June: What kind of nonsense is this?

We're not in a drama.

Stop.

No one is dying.

I'm serious.

Clean this place.

And we're never talking about things like that again.

I'm not applauding you for this.

Your punishment is that we're sleeping in the same room tonight.

Mia: I regret everything.

Genevieve carries her plate toward the kitchen.

So much for privacy.

June: Genevieve, you're responsible for protecting her.

No objections.

I'm the Marshal.

And I trust you.