Chapter 115 – High Priestess Almida
We arrived at the Humoresque Palace.
Just like ten years ago, the magnificent and grand building stretched out as far as the eye could see. Its height and vastness were still impressive.
“It’s been ten years…”
“Yes, I finally returned.”
“That’s right, this is also where it all began.”
We entered the palace.
We slowly ascended an unnecessarily long staircase. There was quite a distance, as expected of a palace.
As we reached the innermost part, a woman with a beautiful face appeared from the inside.
“High Priestess Almida!”
I see, the one in the gorgeous outfit must be the High Priestess. She still possesses her timeless beauty, with hair more white than silver. She wore something akin to a tiara and carried a staff adorned with jewels.
“It’s been a while, Holy Maiden Skor Zlonitse.”
“Yes, it’s been a while. I’ve returned.”
“Yes, I was very worried. Since you went missing, the relationship between Borodin and the Empire has deteriorated and it has been difficult.”
“I-I’m sorry. But I wanted to live freely.”
“Well, that’s fine. More importantly――”
High Priestess Almida fixed her gaze on us.
Her gaze feels uncomfortable.
“… I-It’s been a while.”
“Yes, Rasty-sama. I remember. It’s been ten years. How is His Majesty the Emperor and the princes?”
“Unfortunately, I was exiled from the Empire.”
“That’s unfortunate.”
“But now, I have obtained an uninhabited island and am living there together with Skor and the others. Thanks to that, we’re leading a comfortable life, so there’s no need to worry about Skor.
We came here because we want to learn a bit about agriculture and other related technologies. Of course, we also wanted to let you know that Skor is safe.”
When I told her that, Almida showed understanding.
“I see. It turned out like that… Anyway, you should rest in the palace today. Skor, please show our guests to their room.”
Saying that, the High Priestess turned on her heel. She seemed a bit angry, but it looked like she still welcomed us.
◆
“The Humoresque Palace has many guest rooms.”
As we walked down the corridor, Skor was showing us around. The palace was full of people who seemed to be of high status. Each time we passed by, people who looked like believers were surprised and offered prayers to Skor. It was an amazing sight.
After walking quite a distance, it seems that we have finally arrived.
“Oh, so this is the room.”
Havamar is getting excited, and so am I. Even Stoerlka seemed a bit nervous.
“This interior is wonderful. It rivals or even surpasses the Empire’s.”
“Doesn’t Strelka live in a mansion or something like this?”
“Well, not quite at the palace level.”
I see. That makes sense.
“Havamar-san and Strelka-san, please use this room.”
“Wow, this is spacious. The view is also great!”
Havamar, who charged into the room first, was in high spirits. But indeed, it’s a beautiful room. It gives off an elven vibe with its predominant green color.
Shelves, desks, chairs, beds… all made of wood, but finely crafted. The elements of nature are incorporated here, giving it a refreshing atmosphere.
“Well then, I’ll rest in my room as well.”
“Yeah, see you later, Strelka.”
Strelka went to her room.
I’m curious about my room too.
“Skor, show me to my room.”
“Understood. Havamar-san, see you later.”
Havamar said “I understand~” and jumped onto the bed, and completely turned into a lazy state.
Back in the corridor, I followed Skor’s guidance.
“Is my room a little far away?”
“Y-Yes…”
“Hmm? Skor?”
“W-We have arrived. Here it is.”
For some reason, Skor was trembling. I wonder why she’s so nervous? Anyway, let’s go inside――huh? It smells good, and the room is tidy. In fact, it’s a very girly room. There’s a lot of pink and it’s very cute.
Huh, this room…
“Hey, Skor. This room doesn’t seem like a guest room—Uwa?!”
Suddenly pushed down, I was surprised.
“R-Rasty-san, this is my room.”
“I-I see. That’s why it smells like Skor—Eh, eh?!”
“L-Let’s share the room. It’s better, right?”
“A room with Skor…”
I was worried about my own well-being, but it’s hard to refuse because Skor is getting closer and closer. …Well, I guess it’s okay. It’s only for two or three days.
Besides, it’s time for me to make up my mind.
Today, after confronting that guy, Claude, I understood it well. I have to protect Skor――.
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