[The Phantom of the Opera] Have You Seen My Brother?

After my parents died of illness, I went to live with my maternal uncle's family.

My uncle and aunt were busy making a living, leaving early and coming home late, so only my cousin and I were left to look after the house.

My cousin had an unusual face from birth and shut himself away in his room every day, never seeing the light of day.

I thought he would be hard to get along with, but on my birthday, he carved a wooden doll with his own hands and gave it to me as a present.

I had seen enough of life's hardships to know how to repay kindness.

With the first wages I earned at the textile mill, I bought him a mask and promised, "One day, I'll earn lots of money and cure your face, Brother."

But before I could keep that promise, I died the next day in a monster's lair.

When I woke again, ten years had passed

I had become a servant in an old castle, working by day and forbidden to go out at night.

Then one night, someone tricked me into leaving my room.

A cold wind swept through the corridor, and the candlelight flickered.

The castle's master stood on the stairs, his hands stained with blood, staring at me coldly.

I instinctively tried to flee, but stopped when I saw the mask on his face

It was exactly like the one I had given my cousin all those years ago.

Reading guide:

1. Primarily about family bonds

2. You know how it is with out-of-character portrayals

3. Lots of author-created details. If anything makes you uncomfortable, please leave right away, everyone (sorry)

4. Wishing you all happiness, good health, and endless meals.

Theme: We are born free. May courage endure.