Chapter 206: Dammit...(1)
Chapter 206: Dammit...(1)
Storms don't usually strike twice in a row. Once one passes, there’s typically a lull of at least a few days before the next one arrives.
However, I found myself facing a second, completely unexpected storm. And this one was far more powerful than the last.
Knock, knock, knock—
"Hm?"
It was the time of day when I usually took a break in my quarters. I had finished all the classes I was assisting with as a teaching assistant, and I was currently busy writing while waiting for the others to finish their own lessons.
The sound of someone knocking on my dormitory door reached my ears.
The list of people who visited my room was quite short. Aside from the occasional visit from Mari or Cecile, it was usually Academy officials coming by for academic matters.
Who is it? Mari? Or Cecile?
I checked the clock. It was 2:00 PM. Classes were still in session.
As I’ve mentioned before, student dormitories are strictly off-limits to anyone other than the resident. If someone wants to visit, they need prior permission from the Academy.
Of course, Mari had snuck in before, but she hadn't been caught, so it wasn't an issue. As long as you don't get caught, anything goes.
So, was it someone from the Academy? Just in case, I tucked the manuscript I was working on into my desk drawer.
"Yes, coming."
I spoke to the person waiting behind the door as I stood up.
Without much thought, I walked over and turned the handle.
Creeeak—
"Who is... it?"
I had expected an Academy official, but a completely different person was standing there. The first thing I noticed was the atmosphere.
It wasn't quite as intense as when I’d spoken directly to Luminous or Mora, but a sense of holiness seemed to brush against my skin. Just being near her felt strangely comforting.
The second thing was her appearance. She possessed a pure, untainted beauty reminiscent of a country maiden, paired with emerald-green eyes that sparkled with light.
While Lina’s hair looked as if it were woven from gold thread, the woman before me had hair that evoked images of a golden field, tied back in a single braid.
Her slightly downturned eyes and gentle smile radiated a sense of profound benevolence.
Finally, there was her figure, accentuated by a form-fitting white nun’s habit. Her voluptuous chest, the curve of her waist, and the high side-slit that revealed her thighs were enough to stir any man’s carnal desires.
"...Who are you?"
So, who was this stunning beauty? Regardless of her atmosphere or looks, I blinked twice at the unfamiliar face and asked again.
Judging by her attire, I could tell she was a believer of the Church of Light, but to me, she was just a stranger.
However, the beauty before me simply stared at me with that benevolent smile before...
"Ssssp... Haaa..."
She suddenly took a deep breath and exhaled.
"This scent... it's so strong. The beautiful scent of lilacs..."
She began muttering to herself. She was undeniably beautiful, but her behavior was incredibly bizarre.
As I stood there feeling awkward, the woman looked into my eyes—her green orbs now shimmering with a hint of moisture—and spoke.
"...Excuse me. Is your name Isaac Ducard Maishal?"
"Yes, that's right... but what brings you here?"
Since she knew my name, she was definitely looking for me. I just didn't know why yet.
When I nodded in confirmation, her eyes brightened even more, and she glanced around. She seemed to be checking if anyone else was nearby.
"This isn't a suitable place for a conversation. May I come inside?"
"I mean, you can, but... do you have permission?"
If it were Mari or Cecile, I would have welcomed them in an instant. But this woman was strictly an outsider.
I couldn't just let her in without knowing her intentions. Even if she was a follower of Luminous, caution was essential.
"I have already received permission from the Academy, so you needn't worry. I have the permit right here."
As if she had expected the question, she pulled a document from her pocket and showed it to me. Seeing the official seal clearly stamped on it, it seemed she really did have permission.
I felt a bit uneasy letting a stranger into my room, but I didn't have much choice. I was also curious about what she wanted to say.
Besides, the manuscript was safely tucked away in the drawer, so there was no risk of her seeing it.
"Then please, come in."
"Thank you for your hospitality."
She bowed politely and stepped inside with graceful, light footsteps. Perhaps because of her aura, every single one of her movements seemed to exude holiness.
I had seen many priests while visiting the Temple of Luminous, but few seemed as solemn and deeply devout as this woman.
She was similar to Cecile, yet fundamentally different in nature. Since I had caught a faint scent of lilacs when we met, it was clear that Luminous favored her.
"This scent filling the room... there's no doubt..."
"..."
Her mental state didn't seem... great. But I figured it was fine since her faith seemed genuine.
I had her sit on the bed while I sat in my desk chair, facing her.
The problem, however, was her outfit. Not only was the material tight enough to reveal every curve of her breasts, but it was also sleeveless.
She wore gloves that reached her elbows, but the skin of her upper arms was completely exposed.
Furthermore, the habit had a high side-slit, much like the dresses Arwen wore. More than half of her thigh was visible, creating an awkward atmosphere just by her sitting there.
Should I call that 'holy' in a different sense...?
Regardless, I had no choice but to keep my eyes fixed on her face. I cleared my throat and quietly asked a question.
"...May I ask your name?"
The woman, who had been scanning every corner of my room, looked at me upon hearing my question. Her emerald eyes shone with intelligence.
She stared at my face for a moment, then, with her characteristic benevolent smile, she placed a hand over her heart.
"I apologize for the late introduction. My name is Kate Louise Angelica. I am a humble servant of Luminous."
"...Pardon?"
Did I hear that right? I was left dumbfounded by the woman who introduced herself as Kate.
I had heard the name Kate Louise Angelica before. It would be stranger if I hadn't.
She was a Cardinal of the Church of Light and held the rank of Grand Inquisitor—the highest position among Inquisitors. She was a figure even high-ranking nobles of other nations wouldn't dare treat lightly.
Moreover, she was famous for having personally set out on a pilgrimage a few months ago to find me. I had heard she recently arrived in the Minerva Empire, but...
"...Really?"
"Yes."
"The Cardinal and Grand Inquisitor I'm thinking of?"
"I am unworthy, but yes."
So this woman in front of me was that person. I had only heard stories and had never seen her in person, so I hadn't even guessed.
I blinked for a while, unable to grasp how the situation was unfolding. However, I figured it was best to learn her purpose first.
But first, I had to double-check.
"...So, who are you again?"
"A believer who serves Luminous, Kate Louise Angelica."
"And why have you come to see me?"
At that question, Kate looked at me with a profound gaze and revealed her purpose.
"For the sake of Lord Luminous, may I have your child?"
"Holy shit."
The curse slipped out involuntarily. She just shows up out of nowhere and asks to have my child?
I knew she was cutting straight to the point, but this was too much.
I didn't know what was going on in her head, but this Cardinal named Kate was definitely not normal. I could guarantee that much.
I stared at her expectant expression and first asked for the reason.
To be honest, I had a rough idea of why she was making such a demand, but I wanted to confirm it.
"Cardinal Kate? I'm asking because I don't understand—why on earth are you making such a request? Please explain in detail, without skipping anything."
"That is because you are Xenon."
Of course. I never thought I'd actually use that phrase in real life.
So, how did Kate realize I was Xenon? Was it because of the lilac scent emanating from my body?
That alone was far from enough evidence. There were plenty of other clergy members who smelled like lilacs.
Maintaining as much composure as possible, I quietly countered. For now, I would play dumb.
"For what reason? Why are you so certain that I am Xenon? I think you've got the wrong person."
"I received an oracle."
"..."
Lord Luminous. It seems you truly enjoy watching me suffer. Why did you have to give an oracle to a woman like this?
I pushed down the rising frustration in my chest.
I was curious about what kind of oracle she had received to be so certain I was Xenon. Oracles were usually open to various interpretations.
"...Can you tell me what the oracle said?"
At my question, which I asked while forcing myself to stay calm, Kate nodded and placed her hand on her chest as if recalling the divine message.
Then, closing her eyes, she spoke the oracle in a pleasant voice.
"Seek the one who views the world with a clean sun and acts with pure passion."
"..."
What does that even mean? I didn't understand a word of it, so I just blinked.
It seemed to be a metaphor for me, but it was a string of cryptic words typical of an oracle.
Just as I was sitting there in confusion, unable to say anything, Kate quietly opened her eyes and interpreted the oracle.
"Since ancient times, the sun has been associated with 'gold.' The reason people desire gold is that it resembles the light of the sun. This means the person has golden eyes. Just like you."
"..."
"Next is 'pure passion.' This was the most difficult part. There are countless things that represent passion. But passion is something that burns brightly. In other words, 'fire.' Since fire is usually red, a person with red hair would be the fit. In short, the oracle refers to someone with red hair and golden eyes."
"Isn't that a bit of a stretch? 'Clean sun' could refer to one's perspective rather than eyes, and 'pure passion' could be a metaphor for one's heart."
As I said, oracles are interpreted differently by everyone. Because of this, believers often offer massive sacrifices to receive a more specific oracle.
This oracle was no different. Kate interpreted it based on appearance, but it could be interpreted differently, just as I had suggested.
"Above all, my father also has red hair and golden eyes just like me. Isn't it too much of a leap to conclude it's me?"
"The oracle said 'clean sun' and 'pure passion.' This can also be interpreted as someone whose hands are not stained with blood. It means someone young."
"What kind of..."
"Even if you are a prophet or someone who has returned from the future, it doesn't matter. For now, you haven't stained your hands with any blood."
Having said that, Kate gave an even deeper smile and spoke with conviction.
"Finally, there is the lilac scent coming from you. Even the Pope cannot produce such a strong fragrance. Not unless they are a Saintess like the ones in novels. Ah, in your case, I suppose I should call you a Saint."
"..."
"You can deny it all you want. I can simply seek confirmation through another oracle."
"Sigh..."
I rubbed my face in frustration and let out a deep sigh. There was no escaping this.
I don't know why, but lately, people like Cherry and now this woman were finding out my identity. And this time, a god had directly given an oracle, making it a hopeless situation.
Even if I kept denying it, as Kate said, she could just get another oracle. Since she was a Cardinal, Luminous would likely give her confirmation eventually.
...But what's this about having a child?
Let's get back to the main point. Kate had abruptly proposed having my child for the sake of Luminous.
What was her true goal? I glanced at her as she waited with that benevolent smile.
On the surface, she was a beauty who would turn anyone's head. Her figure was beyond excellent—it was explosive.
She possessed a look that combined holiness and sensual charm, naturally evoking a sense of forbidden desire.
It was hard to believe that someone like her went around smashing the heads of demon worshippers, but seeing how blunt she was, it seemed likely.
"...Cardinal Kate."
"Please, just call me Kate. You are a Saint recognized by Lord Luminous."
"Dammit..."
A curse almost slipped out. Who recognized who as a Saint...? Ah, Luminous. It was Luminous again.
Grinding my teeth inwardly, I forced myself to ask.
"...Fine. Let's say I am Xenon. But what's with this sudden request to have a child?"
"Shall I explain that as well?"
"Yes."
At my consent, Kate began to tell her story, starting from her past. She grew up in a humble village but suddenly gained immense divine power.
Since it was almost impossible to possess such power without any lineage, it was considered a blessing from Luminous. When she later asked Luminous, the god confirmed it was indeed a 'Divine Blessing.'
A Divine Blessing meant the god had personally chosen the believer, and such individuals were usually recorded as great figures of their era. Even the current Pope of Savior had received Luminous's blessing.
"Although you haven't received a blessing, your achievements have likely granted you divine power equal to one. Therefore, I wish to repay Lord Luminous."
"..."
"I'm sure Lord Luminous would be pleased. Perhaps a child born between us would also be granted a blessing."
There is a thin line between a person of true faith and a fanatic. Kate was right on that line.
She sounded like a devout believer, but to me, she was just a fanatic. A fanatic who treated even her own body as an offering to her god.
I was speechless at her absurd mindset, but I eventually spoke up.
"...Are you saying this knowing that I have a fiancée?"
"Ah. You have a fiancée? I didn't expect that..."
Kate's eyes widened as she pondered this, seemingly genuinely surprised. Seeing her hesitate, I thought she might actually have some common sense...
"It doesn't matter. If it's for Lord Luminous."
"..."
"If you find it burdensome to do it here, you can come to the temple yourself. I am always ready."
What kind of Cardinal encourages an affair?
I frowned and immediately expressed my refusal. No matter how beautiful Kate was or how great her body was, this was wrong.
Being treated like a breeding stud was unpleasant, and more than anything, the fact that she showed up out of nowhere with such a demand was uncomfortable for me, given my memories of my past life.
"Forget it. I'm not giving you any 'seeds,' so just know that."
"Why? I'm embarrassed to say this, but I believe I have enough charm as a woman."
"That mindset is the problem. I don't believe in sleeping with someone I have no connection with."
Cecile had been similar in the past. She had acted hastily and once offended me.
That led to several awkward situations, but we eventually built a strong relationship and shared genuine affection.
Because this world was modeled after the Middle Ages or the early modern era, adultery and affairs were rampant, but that was largely due to the unique custom of political marriages.
As someone who still held the values of my previous life, I absolutely refused to do something that was no different from an affair. I believed it was my duty and obligation to at least consult with the women in my life.
"Hmm... I see. I understand."
Kate nodded as if she accepted my words. Thankfully, she was reasonable...
"So, you're saying I just need to seduce you?"
"Holy fuck."
She wasn't reasonable at all.