Chapter 9

"Rusoa, I wonder what kind of life Clevana has led so far?"

While performing the task of applying magical processing to new books being added to the library, Cord said this to me, Rusoa.

Recently, Clevana, a new employee, started working here.

She is a mysterious girl, and from what I've heard, she has had a tough life. However, it seems she took those unfair situations for granted. She laughed, saying Zepia was her first friend, and her treatment by her family was poor, and her marriage didn't go well. It's hard not to feel angry for her, considering how much she has suffered at such a young age of twenty-four.

"I do think she has had a very difficult life. ... The biggest problem, in her case, is that she accepts such treatment as normal. She doesn't get angry at things she should be angry about..."

"She said she had never had a friend before, right? It seems she hardly interacted with anyone, only with those who negated her existence?"

"I think so. Despite that, she isn't overly humble, which might be because she learned about the world through books."

"Still, it's strange that she has such social skills and can speak various languages. Also, I think she probably comes from a good family."

Cord said this with an indescribable expression.

Indeed, Clevana, as one can tell from interacting with her, has graceful manners. Even in plain clothes, she exudes elegance.

... She has never attended school or had a private tutor. This means she likely learned all those manners on her own.

"Yes. The other day, when we were drinking at a tavern, she referred to her father as 'Father.' So I think she definitely comes from a good family."

The term "Father" is used only in wealthy families. Clevana mentioned that something important was missing for her to be recognized as a family member. I don't understand how a family can refuse to recognize someone just because one thing is missing.

"Also, I think Clevana's family and her in-laws didn't understand her capabilities."

"Despite how capable she is?"

"I think it's because she is so capable. I believe she had the ability to blend in without causing any discomfort. If she had shown even a slight gap that could make others feel uncomfortable, it might have been different. ... Even we wouldn't have known she grew up in such an abnormal environment if we hadn't heard it from her."

Clevana's ability to adapt to her environment is so strong that it's hard to tell she grew up in such a strange environment. She learned everything on her own, and her ability to adapt to this extent is, in a way, a talent.

"Yeah... I couldn't tell she had such a life until I actually talked to her. Still, the way she talks about it so nonchalantly... It must have been a tough situation to take for granted."

"Yes... I heard she is separated from her children, and I hope she can find happiness from now on."

When Clevana talks about her children, a hint of affection is visible. She doesn't seem to be overly attached to her surroundings, and it feels like she accepts everything that is given to her.

However, I think children are special to her.

I think she wanted to bring her children with her. But due to various circumstances, she had to be separated from them.

... I haven't had children, but I imagine it would be a sad thing.

Leaving her family and coming to a neighboring country alone is a big decision.

I don't think I could have done that.

... I think Clevana has lived in an environment where being neglected by others was the norm, and she has lived without much interaction with others. This might be why she remains calm and composed in any situation. As she said she doesn't understand how to get angry, it's because showing strong emotions isn't normal for her.

"I also think it would be good if she could feel that it's okay to show more emotions. When faced with unfair treatment, it's better to get angry, cry, and fight with all her might."

I believe it's better to properly stand up to unfair treatment.

So I also think it would be good if she could become that kind of person.

"... If she has been treated that way, there's a possibility that her family or ex-husband might come looking for her. We should be ready to help her if that happens."

"Yes. Let's do that."

If someone tries to contact her, I think we should protect her as colleagues.