The Hidden Muse

One day, a mysterious marquis arrived in a small rural village and began acquiring artwork. His specific focus was on pieces that depicted "nudes." Liv Rodeis was merely an ordinary private tutor. In order to afford medicine for her ill younger sibling, she had clandestinely posed as a nude model a few times. However, she had only permitted her back to be painted, thinking it wouldn't lead to any problems. That was until a nude painting that showed part of her face was sold to someone. *** "God may listen, but He doesn’t grant wishes." The cynical remark was uttered in a soft tone, just loud enough for Liv to catch. "The power to make something happen lies in human hands, Teacher The." The deep voice was eerily cold yet simultaneously enchanting, reminiscent of a Siren’s song. The pale blue eyes, which had been directed at the religious statue, shifted down to Liv. "So, try praying to me." The marquis’s lips formed a slight curve. That brief moment of eye contact stretched on for what felt like an eternity. "Who knows? A miracle might just happen."