Similarly, no one will tell you how to get to the Elf Forest; this is the most challenging part.

'If you actually get here, the badge you had earlier will come in handy. Vinya will recognize you by the badge and give you this little box.'

'Actually, once you get here, you'll find that the magic locks behind you are a piece of cake; otherwise, you wouldn't be hearing these sounds here.'

'Why did I set all these things up? Because I know that if it really is you, neither the Mage Council nor the Elf Forest will be a problem for you.'

Even if you've never been there before, you'll remember it perfectly.

'A goose? You ask why I'm so sure? Because I remember everything.'

"What? You don't believe me? Then you probably never told me the story of how I was forced to sign a contract and become your employee, right?"

"Ugh, thinking about this really makes me furious. You're so calculating, always saying things that benefit yourself."

"Otherwise, do you think I'm stupid? Going through all that trouble to save a stranger like you, and even throwing myself out in the process? I'm not some random elf."

"Hmm, let me guess, you didn't burst into tears when you heard this, did you?"

'No, no, the Viktor I know isn't that dramatic. Anyway, I really want to see what you look like when you cry.'

Oh, and you don't need to try to save me anymore. I already knew I didn't have much time left, that's why I did this.

'If I retain my memories in the next reincarnation, I'll find a way to save myself, at least to live longer.'

'But if I forget, you'll have to come back to save me. I'll be waiting for you.'

The phonograph paused for a while at this point.

But a slight hissing sound still lingered within it.

It sounded like a gentle breeze, or perhaps it was Kokote pondering her last words.

After a long silence, she finally found her last words.

And with the most earnest tone of my life, I said:

Also, don't be discouraged.

'My Viktor will never settle for mediocrity.'