Synopsis

Penelope requests a swordmaster for Eclis so he can effectively act as her guard, while also facing subtle power plays from Derrick who seems both protective and controlling. She confronts Derrick about his contradictory actions, highlighting the hypocrisy of wanting to "protect" her while simultaneously undermining her relationship with Eclis. The chapter reveals Penelope's resolve to not depend on the future's 'Yvonne' but instead actively secure her own safety by empowering Eclis.