Chapter 155
"Thank you for your hard work. Allow me to guide you to your room."
After finishing his report to the cardinal, Clael stepped out into the hallway.
Outside the door, a young priest was waiting and guided Clael to the guest room.
"Please rest here for the night. If you need anything, just ring the bell and I'll come right away."
"Yes, thank you."
"Well then, please take your time..."
With a polite bow, the young priest took his leave.
Clael entered the room, closed the door... and let out a deep sigh.
"Good grief... This time really wore me out."
After locking the guest room door with a click, Clael tossed his luggage onto the floor.
He also shrugged off his jacket and flopped onto the bed on his back.
"Phew... Seriously, what a day..."
He hadn't felt this exhausted in a long time. His stamina and mental energy were completely drained.
He wasn't used to rough situations. It was only natural, since he had fought against gangs and a horde of monsters.
Reality was different from the game, after all. If it were inside the game world, he could've kept fighting for hours just to level up.
But now, Clael had used up all his energy after just about an hour of fighting.
(I really don't want to work for a while... I'd rather hole up for a month and just live playing games...)
Unfortunately, there were no games in this world.
He just wanted to forget about complicated things and quietly play some Tetris... Once again, he was reminded how inconvenient another world was.
(Anyway... At least I'm no longer being targeted by the gang, so maybe I can relax for a while?)
He didn't know what had happened to Carmine Imari... but until the next move was made, he should have time to prepare.
As for the Holy Nation of Shinecross, he probably didn't need to worry about it for the time being.
(What events are coming up next... Was there anything?)
In the otome game 'Beyond the Rainbow Gleam', the story changed drastically depending on which male character one pursued.
So far, Reina didn't seem to be actively pursuing anyone.
(In that case... is it the normal route? There shouldn't be any life-threatening events, right?)
A few minor events would probably occur... but nothing big like this recent incident. He should be able to relax for a while.
That said, the event of being targeted by the Holy Nation of Shinecross was originally something that happened in the latter half of the scenario, so he couldn't let his guard down.
(Maybe... the game's scenario no longer applies in this world...)
"...I'm hungry."
"Ah, I have some sandwiches. I'll make some tea too."
"Thanks... Wait, what?"
His muttering had received a response.
Clael jumped up from the bed in surprise.
"H-Huh... Reina?"
"Is something wrong?"
And there she was—Reina.
Reina tilted her head curiously as she prepared the sandwiches and tea.
"W-Why are you here? The door was...?"
"Oh, the door wasn't locked, you know? I knocked, but there was no answer, so I just let myself in."
"Ah... I-I see. Sorry about that...?"
He could've sworn he locked it... but since Reina was here, he must've been mistaken.
He thought he had locked it but forgot... It was one of those careless mistakes he occasionally made.
"You went on a pilgrimage today, right? How was it?"
"How was it... Well, I suppose it was tiring. It was far, after all..."
"I see. You must be exhausted."
While pouring tea, Reina offered words of comfort to Clael.
"You really are an admirable person, Clael. Even though you're busy with your work as a teacher... you still take on duties at the shrine. I truly respect you."
"A-Ahahaha..."
Clael forced a smile.
It pained him to have to lie to Reina.
But... he couldn't tell her the truth. It would only make her worry.
(Neither the romance targets nor the cardinal are likely to talk about this incident... So I'll keep my lips sealed.)
"Alright, the tea is ready. Please, help yourself."
"Thanks for the meal..."
Clael got up from the bed and moved to the table.
Avoiding her gaze out of guilt for lying, Clael brought the tea and sandwich to his mouth.
"............♪"
Watching Clael's profile intently, Reina smiled happily.