The warm rays of the sun blinded her sight. Once it got used to the light, she was greeted by a comfortable silence, the fresh air and the faint scent of tropical lilies and spring jasmine.

Above that, a gorgeous smiling figure was sitting beside her on the empty spot of the enormous bed. Shoulders squared, hands folded on her lap. She had pretty gray eyes, sharp features and waist-length blonde hair that fades into a golden dust color.

Judging at how perfectly ladylike she looked, Joohyun was sure that she was a royal.

“You’re finally awake.” She spoke up in a soft tone so she won’t startle the cyborg.

“F-Finally?” Joohyun blinked confusingly. “How long I’ve been out?”

“Three days. Two of my cousins found you in a dumpster. They decided to take you since they thought you’re homeless.”

“Yeah, homeless.” Joohyun cringed. “How could I ever repay them!”

“You don’t have to, but you can meet them.” The lady smiled. “I’m Jessica Jung.”

Returning a meek smile, Joohyun carefully slide out from the bed as she dipped into a maddeningly perfect curtsy.

“Pleased to meet you, Empress Jessica.”

“How did you know I’m a royal?” Jessica grinned before asking.

“Well, HALL OF GRACE palace is the only place where you get to smell the scent of spring flowers during winter.” Joohyun replied, fiddling with her fingers. “My stepsister once told me since she used to deliver orders in here. And even though I’ve never seen you before, I’ve heard that one of the late emperors have a daughter with a name like yours.”

“I see.” said Jessica before gesturing for the young cyborg toward the bathroom. “There’s some clothes hanging behind the door, I’m sure it fits you. I’ll come back to take you to breakfast after twenty minutes.”

Joohyun stood straight. “I’ll be waiting, Your Majesty!”

* *

“What on earth are you wearing? Is that one of Krystal’s funny dresses? They look pretty ridiculous on you.”

“The Sleeping Beauty has finally arisen, who kissed you awake, darling?”

“SEUNGWAN! SEULGI! Is that how you greet our new family member?”

“New family member?” Joohyun echoed the same words.

“From now on you’re one of us.” Jessica stated warmly. “This isn’t just a palace. It’s a home for the lost, for the needy, for the fallen and for the orphans.”

“T-Thank you, Your Majesty.” Joohyun placed her steel hand over her heart, feeling overjoyed.

She almost rejected the offer. Having HALL OF GRACE as her new home was too much, but then again, it was the m