"the warmth of family"

After the expedition team returned to the base and presented their report about the events they went through — including Dom's death and their meeting with the strange child — it was officially announced that the mission was a success. Dom's death was described as a sacrifice for the progress of humanity. But the truth, which remained hidden, was that the mission was actually a failure. They didn't explore every corner of the floor, and they gathered little information about the enemies, except for the boss.

As for the child, a decision was made to send him to an orphanage until more information could be discovered about him.

After the report was finished, Archie told the guards to leave — except for Jack. He asked Jack to stay so they could talk about the strange child.

Archie spoke to Jack in a mysterious tone:

"From your report, I see that you tried to kill that child and you weren't fully conscious at the time. But you refused to apologize. Your hatred and anger blinded you, and that's why you fell into that trap."

Jack replied, "It's true that I fell into the trap because of my emotions. But I still don't think I should apologize to the child, and…"

Archie interrupted, "I know you see yourself in him. He really looks like you. But Jack, remember this old saying: 'The child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth.' So don't be too hard on yourself. On the contrary, if you accept him, you might overcome your weakness."

Jack stayed silent for a moment, then said, "You're right, President. Thank you for your advice. I will do my best to improve myself."

Archie nodded, "Good. Now, you may leave."

Later, the child was taken to the orphanage. There, he was welcomed by the caretaker, Lily — a young woman in her mid-twenties with red hair and red eyes like jewels. She was very beautiful. The child was enchanted by her, especially when she greeted him with a warm smile. It felt like the love of a mother.

After the child started to get along with the other kids, Archie came to check on him.

"Hello, little hero," Archie said kindly. "What's your name?"

The child stayed silent.

"Who are your parents? Are they still inside the maze?" he asked.

The child replied for the first time, "I don't have any parents."

Archie was surprised. He didn't expect the child to speak, and the answer shocked him.

"So, you don't have a name either?" Archie asked.

The child nodded his head, meaning yes.

"Then let's choose a nice name for you," Archie said.

Lily gently said, "Lounis… I think Lounis is a beautiful name."

She smiled, but her eyes were full of tears. It was the name of her younger brother who had passed away.

"Lounis, welcome to our family," said Archie.

For the first time, Lounis felt like he had a home — like he had a real family. Even the two guards, Izem and Kuro, came to visit him often, treating him like their little brother. Those days were the happiest moments in Lounis's life.

One day, Jack came to the orphanage and asked to meet Lounis. Lily allowed it. When Lounis saw Jack, he was a little scared but still walked toward him.

Jack began, "Hello, Lounis. I think you're still afraid of me. I understand, because I tried to hurt you. But I'm here to say sorry. I hope you can forgive me."

Lounis replied, "I accept your apology — but on one condition. I want you to teach me how to fight. I want to become a guard."

Lily heard this and said, "No, I won't allow that. You're still too young to learn how to fight."

Jack looked at Lily and said, "I think it's okay to teach him a little. It's not like he's going to enter the maze now."

But Lily said, "No means no. Right now, he should enjoy his childhood and play with his friends."

Lounis said, "But you go into the maze too. Why can't I?"

She replied, "I don't go into the maze. I work in the lab for the Explorers Organization. That's how I pay for this home and the kids."

Then Jack said, "I won't train you until Miss Lily agrees. For now, just help her with the housework. Alright? See you later."

After Jack left, Lounis returned to his room. Two of his friends, Isabella and Adam, called him to play. They had a close and friendly bond.

Lounis was getting used to his new life, and everything seemed fine.

But one year later... tragedy struck.