《A Trivial Extra in a Dating Sim》 Chapter 1 Chapter 1 [Sessfully synchronized with the Romance Simtion Game Midnight.] [From now on you are the Saintess, Evanessa Halyn. You must target one of the five male leads and reach their happy ending in order toplete the game.] As Yewon listened to the messages chiming in her ears, she couldnt avoid thinking: Not only is this life ruined, its headed for aplete disaster. Yewon stared into the mirror with a devastated expression on her face. Standing in her reflection was not the Asian girl who had always greeted her, instead, there was a somewhat familiar, western woman who was the spitting image of an illustration that she hadst seen on her smartphone screen. Ah. The blue irises of the ck-haired beauty widened as they lost focus. Evanessa Halyn was the only saintess of the main religion in the games setting, the church of the Creator God Lunium. Although she was one of several female leads in the popr dating sim game Midnight, only a few yers ever chose to y her due to her high difficulty setting. So in the main storyline, she was only ever seen as the unfortunate heroine who fell into the role of a trivial extra. The yers stuck her with the nickname Bad Ending Maker because no matter which hero she chased after, she would only end up with a bad or sad ending. There was not a single yer in the history of the game who had managed to sessfully capture their target with her, so how was Yewon supposed to reach a happy ending with the saintess who had even been called the hard mode bug? A sigh leaked out from the corner of Yewons mouth. All of this was due to a single careless word from a friend that had inspired her with the foolish daydream of conquering the saintesss route. I died no matter how hard I tried. Even with a miracle on her side, I dont think the saintess would ever be able to reach a happy ending? Those words ignited a spark inside of her. So over the course of the next week, in the spare moments between her part-time work at the library, she became hooked onto the game. Midnight-a shining example of the dating sim game genre- was known to set the hearts of young women aze. It was jampacked with content as if an entire book had been shredded and thrown in. So, along with its charming illustrations and suspenseful storyline, the quality of the game was unparalleled. Apart from the hard mode bug Evanessa, the solid narratives delivered by its other female leads and the overflowing charm of the male leads actually managed to secure the game 1st ce in the app store for several weeks in a row. The game was set as a romantic fantasy setting. A yer could choose from one of four heroines with which to capture one of the five male leads. Only However, the problem with this is that Yewon was supposed to be in the middle of her daily work at the library, sorting the returned books and reorganizing a few of the back shelves that rarely saw any visitors. It happened just as she was about to finish up her work for the day. Taking a short breather, she pulled out her smartphone. Whilst she was telling herself that this would be thest time she would attempt this route, a sharp ringing noise suddenly started to buzz inside her ears. [. Miii Shiii Tzzz.] *static noises* Yewon shot upright with a shocked cry and grabbed onto a nearby windowsill for support as she tried to catch her breath. A strange noise was echoing inside her head, sounding simr to a broken radio. A sudden spike of pain tore through her head, causing her to drop her smartphone. As she bent over to try and pick it back up, her vision started to dim and the phone seemed to fall out of reach as Yewon felt herself being pulled somewhere far away. Then, when she opened her eyes once more, she was greeted by a message before she even had a moment to gather her wits. [Sessfully synchronized with the Romance Simtion Game Midnight.] Chapter 2 Chapter 2 [From now on you are the Saintess, Evanessa Halyn. You must target one of the five male leads and achieve a happy ending in order toplete the game.] At first, she thought it was an auditory hallucination caused by her preupation with the game. Although the change in her surroundings was very concerning, she was sure that the white ceiling hanging over her just meant that she was in the hospital. However, the ce she woke up in was indeed the very same room that she had been forced to stare at on her smartphones screen until she was sick of it, Evanessas bedroom. She tried all the usual methods of waking up from a dream, but they proved useless. Although it was hard for her to believe, she was now certain that this was reality. So Ive been inserted. Not into a novel, but a dating sim. Yewon, who was still staring at the unfamiliar face in the mirror with zed-over eyes, heard a knock at the door. *Knock Knock* Saintess Evanessa. The Pope has requested your presence. is this for real? Yewons voice cracked as she replied, Does it really have to be today? The voice that poured from hercked her usual husky tone; instead, it sounded so sweet and pure that it left her with goosebumps just hearing it. She also sensed that the apostle who had been sent to guide her was still awkwardly waiting by her door. Yewon C no C Evanessa took a deep breath. So where should I be going? *** Yourete, the pope said as he closed the thick tome that he had been reading. The monocle he was wearing sliding down the bridge of his nose as he turned to her. Evanessa looked at the pope with a strange expression on her face. He was one of the main viins of the hodgepodge, European, Middle-Ages, fantasy world that the dating sim game had been set in. He was also the root cause of why Evanessas naivete score was a full 10 out of 10 points. Your call just came too suddenly. Well, first of all, take a seat. The pope gestured to the seat directly opposite him with a tilt of his chin. Although he was slightly over 60 years old, he appeared to be a young man in his twenties due to the high levels of magic that he had been born with. In this world, the priests of the Creator God Lunium possessed Magic Power instead of Divine Power. This was because Lunium, who along with his role as the God who created the world, was also the god from whom all magical power was drawn from. Therefore, all those who heldrge reserves of magical power, yetcked the necessary talent to be a wizard, were instead recruited to serve as priests of Lunium. Lets just get straight to the point of this meeting. Im tired and I want to quickly go back to my room and get some rest. The popes eternally stoic expression faltered for the first time. Only If this game had now truly be her reality, with the only way to return to her original world was to reach a happy ending, then the one person who represented absolutely everything that Evanessa would need to avoid on her way to the perfect ending was the pope. The first thing to do is to escape the church. However, the church would never willingly let go of Evanessa, who was the manifestation of their god Lunium. so today marks the start of your rebellious period. Do you really hate the fact that youre going to the imperial pce tomorrow that much? She was going to the imperial pce tomorrow? Could it be because of the Luniums Day Festival? It was out of character for Evanessa, who was basically the zashiki-warashi of the church, to go outdoors for any purpose other than charity work. On top of that, it was very rare for anyone to be allowed to directly enter the royal pce. So if this wasnt for the Anniversary of the Empires Founding, then there was a high probability that this had something to do with the month-long regional holiday celebrated across the empire, the festival of Luniums Day. Chapter 3 Chapter 3 On her way here, she had asked the apostle for the date and had been informed that it was the start of May. Since the monster hunt usually started around September, this meant that presently it should be close to the time of the Lunium Day Festival. Her involvement in this matter came about because of a coboration between the peaceful reigning emperor and the shrewd pope. Apart from the emperor himself, the rest of the royal family were obligated to leave the pce every weekend during the month-long Luniums Day Festival to attend the churchs service. By allowing the saint to enter the pce and conduct the service there, it would allow the entirety of the royal court to participate in the service together. As Evanessa continued to remain silent, the pope, who came to his own wed conclusions, released a heavy sigh. Didnt I tell you that this would be thest time. Didnt I hand that thing over to you, if you had used it to capture the heart of the crown prince, then everything would already be over and done with. I thought you said that you held feelings for the crown prince. If this was the original Evenassa, who had been extremely frightened of the popes displeasure, then she would have been forced to choose one of only two replies. [H-however, if I use that] [Ill try my best.] Both options had made her feel like she was about to snap, but inside the game, there had been nothing that she could do. However, now that the game had turned into reality, things were different. Evanessa smiled sweetly and said, Ill think about it. What? I said that I will think it over and decide myself. Whether to use it or not. The popes expression went ck with shock. At this sight, the frustration that had been building up inside her ever since she started ying as Evanessa was finally soothed. Evanessa! the pope shouted as he recovered from the shock, his face red and his brows furrowed with rage. Evanessa wasnt cowed and simply stood in ce. Did you just dare to say that you would disobey my orders! Yes. I dont have any need for things like that drug. What? That was because she had no ns, whatsoever, of stringing along with the crown prince. As she watched the confusion bloom on the popes face, the corners of Evanessas mouth twitched with suppressedughter. If thats the case I have nothing more to say. Go with the grace of Lunium. She had to get rid of her connection to the church as soon as possible. If she got entangled with the church that was already rotten to the core, it was likely that she would end up in the bad ending, where she would be exploited by her superiors and then discarded. Now I just need to decide who to target. Each of the male leads in the game required their own unique ways of being dealt with. Though it would be a different story if she had been ying as the main heroine of Midnight, Lady Beatrice. As Evanessa walked down the corridor alone, absorbed in her thoughts, she suddenly came to a halt. Ah. Although Evanessa and Yewon were almostplete opposites in every single way, they still had one thing inmon. They both had no sense of direction. Evanessa eventually managed to get some help from a passing high priest and arrived safely back at her own room. Only Since the first time she had set eyes on it, she hadnt received any further system messages. Do I have to trigger a special event just to receive one? As she had been thrust into such a precarious situation, it was difficult for her to get to sleep. A million different thoughts were running through her head. Getting synchronized with the game should mean the same thing as having your soul inserted into the character, right? Then what about the body that I left behind in reality? It would be bad if my dad gets called. Hell be so worried. I was supposed to be paying my rent soon, and what will happen to my part-time work at the library? It was my dream job, but now I might have lost the position by the time I get back. Chapter 4 Chapter 4 Among all these different thoughts, thergest problem looming over her was definitely the question of who to choose and how to navigate their route to reach a happy ending. In her experience C she had been ying the game for over a month now C the atrocious performance of the saintess had been enough for Yewon to give up any dreams of sess and had driven her to the brink of admitting defeat. The most important trait for a character to have in a dating sim, her charm, was only at level 3. If you took a moment to consider that this was out of a total factor of 10, the score was low enough to leave you speechless Although her strength was maxed out, her timidity rendered her unable to take action, so she was left as a character with no good points to speak of. Due to this, the yers had fiercely criticized her, denouncing her as a broken character who they called the hard mode bug. If only I was lucky enough to be inserted into the Lady Beatrice. Lady Beatrice was in apletely different position to the saintess. Her nicknames were the bad ending freezer and the harem ending producer. Evanessa, who was tossing and turning in bed, suddenly bolted upright. Then facing the empty room, she whispered, open status window. The words were spoken with an air of doubt and uncertainty. In front of her eyes, a transparent hologram popped up, and on its main screen was the familiar status window that she had perused repeatedly until her eyes fell out. There was the physique that was basically a joke and mental faculties to match. In contrast, the etiquette, strength, morality, and faith stats that were all maxed out also slid into view. [At the present time, the saved favorability points are at 0.] This was abysmal. Favorability points could be umted by improving your rtionship with the male leads. They could then be invested in raising stats or opening up hidden stories. However in the many days since the release of the game, no matter how much abuse yers poured at the screen as they attempted to y as the saintesss character, none were able to get more than 3 favorability points. but if my character fails then what will happen to me? Would she be tortured for all eternity inside the game? Evanessas face paled. She definitely couldnt risk it. After that, Evanessa spent the rest of the night writing everything that she could remember onto parchment paper in Korean characters for safety. She described the characteristics of the five male leads and all the ways that she could get caught by the worst routes leading to a bad ending. By the time dawn broke, she hadpletely filled up seven pieces of parchment. In the process, she reached a single definite conclusion. Whatever happens, I need to avoid the wizards tower. Whichever route she took, the bad endings were all connected to the wizards tower. Furthermore, it wasnt an ordinary bad ending, but one so cruel that it would make you want to cover your eyes and hide. It was connected to the single character that every yer agreed to avoid at all costs. With drained and tired eyes, Evanessa observed the rising sun through her window. One of the five male leads, the Knight Commander Daniel, would be arriving any moment now to escort her. His was the ideal and safest route, at least for Evanessa. Only Daniel Kerillian. The young Knight-Commander of the Empire, who belongs to the historic house of Kerillian. He was also popr among Midnight yers because of his puppy-like appearance and affectionate nature. Moreover, if they yed as Princess, the difficulty level was so low thatpleting the game became trivial. This was due to the setting of her and Daniel being childhood friends. There was also the setting in which Daniel has an unrequited love for Lady Patricia, the princess-like heroine. It was a long-term unrequited love scenario, so it must still be going on. St. Evanessa Halyn Evanessa peered through her thin veil at the ordinary, yet fair face before her Daniel, dressed in his uniform, knelt down on one knee in front of her; the spitting image of a perfect knight. As a gentle breeze blew, his pale, brown hair was tousled. His thick lips parted wide, and a pleasant bass voice came out. Chapter 5 Chapter 5 I, Daniel Kerillian, am serving as the head of the Imperial Knights Order this year. I have beenmanded by His Majesty the Emperor to bring the Saintess safely to the Imperial Pce. Daniels voice trembled slightly towards the end. Despite my fascination with him, I was slightly at a loss. To think that a face I had seen only through my phone was standing before my eyes! Should I tell him to get up? Yewon remembered most of the routes, but she was not familiar with situations outside the main story. Her nose wrinkled as she started to feel flustered. Oh my. If it isnt Count Kerillian. From the entrance of the temple that they were facing, the pope suddenly appeared apanied by his priests. Behind Daniel, who had taken the lead, there was a carriage decorated in Freesia flowers and surrounded by knights. Arise. Sir Kerillian. Evanessa moved quickly. She could not allow Daniel to be talked to in such a humiliating way by the Pope. Instinctively, she called him by the title that Evanessa had used for Daniel in the game. Daniel had been about to stand when he became intimidated by the Pope appearing right in front of him. I had heard that you had been appointed as the currentmander of the Imperial Knights after the former count stepped down. Itste, but congrattions. Thank you, Sir Pope. So then, take good care in escorting our Saintess to the Imperial Pce. The pope ced his hand on Evanessas shoulder, as she stood right beside him, and squeezed. It was meant to imply that she should follow the n closely. Evanessa deliberately twisted her body out of the Popes grasp. Then, I will take my leave. Evanessas lips raised slightly at their corners as she was escorted by Daniel and climbed into the flower carriage. The smile on the Popes face disappeared as he watched the carriage fade into the distance. He muttered as he took back the hand that had been left hanging in the air. It seems that the saintess is stillcking in etiquette education. The shoulders of the assistant priest, who was standing near the pope, trembled. A monthter, when Evanessa returns from her mission, it appears a storm will be waiting for her. The high priest turned away from the carriage that had shrunk into a ck dot on the horizon. It was time for the morning service to begin. *** There was an awkward silence. Evanessa rested her chin on her hand and gazed through the window at the street around her. The temple was located on the outskirts of the capital, so it took a little less than an hour by carriage to reach the Imperial Pce. Everyone is very diligent. Despite the early hours, the street was bustling. Merchants had already set up stands disying their goods, and newsies ran between the people who wereing and going. In the distance, Evanessa saw a huge pce seemingly built out of jade. Ah, I want to learn about this worlds history. Daniel, however, seemed to have misunderstood something. The face that reminded Evanessa of a boy rather than a young man was strained with anxiety. Daniel, appearing hesitant, opened his mouth. I heard that the saintess is only allowed to go outside on special asions. It must have been lonely, that was the nuance underlying the words. Yes. If it was up to me, I would have left earlier. Yewon realized that she had been so distracted that she spoke without thinking through what she was saying. Upon seeing Daniels eyes widen in surprise, she quickly corrected her statement. I meant that I used to be more impulsive when I was younger.. Ah. Fortunately for Evanessa, the conversation could not continue as the carriage slowed to aplete stop, even though there was still quite a bit of distance to cover in order to get to the Imperial Pce. There was a knock on the window. Only Captain. Whats going on? I think you should see for yourself. Daniels face hardened as he exchanged gazes with Evanessa. With a serious look on his face, he opened the door. As soon as the door was only half-opened, a roar of shouts poured into the carriage. Saintess! Saintess Evanessa! Please look at me one time! Chapter 6 Chapter 6 Saintess I love you! A huge crowd that was nowhere to be seen when they passed through the capitals entrance was now present in the boulevard leading to the Imperial Pce. What is this. The carriage had not even gotten halfway down the street before the road waspletely blocked. The 20 odd knights were struggling to control the crowds that constantly swarmed the party. Daniel asked in a serious tone, Did you make a request to headquarters for support? I contacted the vice-manager with amunication sphere; it will take them about 20 minutes to arrive. It appears that there has been an information leak. I intentionally borrowed a carriage from the Sagrina Family in order to be as camouged as possible. Daniel sighed as his expression became pained. This was something that Yewon had forgotten. That the Saintess, who is treated as a ser ball by the male leads, is a popr idol amongst normal citizens. By the way, if its the Sagrina family The Sagrina family was the household of Lady Beatrice. As one of the most influential families in the Grancia Empire and through its contributions to the nation, the family had a great reputation and was second only to the Emperor. Im sorry, Saintess. I should have paid more attention to security, apologized Daniel helplessly as he reentered the carriage. Evanessa shook her head in response to his words. How is this your fault? The people who are blocking the public streets when they should be passing by are in the wrong. Yes? Daniel questioned Evanessa doubtfully, yet she wasnt paying attention. If it were modern times, these people are the equivalent of crazed fans practically blocking the whole middle of a highway just to see a celebrity. Rather than that, I think it will be difficult for the knights. Through the small window, Evanessa saw the people trying to get close to her carriage and the knights desperately trying to stop them. Daniels face darkened. The reinforcements will arrive soon, so dont worry too muchC Saintess? At the end of the sentence, Daniels voice rose in surprise due to Evanessas unexpected behavior. Before he had finished speaking, Evanessa stood up and opened the door wide. The people who were behaving like fanatics, crying out for the Saintess, quickly quieted. The knights looked at Evanessa nervously as she had suddenly appeared. Evanessa did not immediately get down from the carriage. Instead, she looked down expressionlessly at the gathered crowd. Everyone appeared nervous as they waited for her to speak. Finally, her lips that were visible under the veil slowly opened. Everyone. .. Youre too noisy. Then, she closed the door to the carriage. Was it a little too much? Evanessa returned to her seat as if nothing had happened. She felt Daniel looking at her with a nk expression, but she looked away, pretending not to notice. Luckily, her rudeness seemed to have had its intended effect and there were no further disturbances. Evanessa closed her eyes, ignoring the confusing hum from outside. She hadnt even started the main story, but already she had a major headache forming. First, I have to put an end to this damn poprity of the saintess. Only In the first ce, the reason the temple held Evanessa so close is because of the love she garnered from the citizens due to her title of The Saintess Chosen by Lunium. The affection of the citizens leads to fame. Fame soon bes power. It was this fact that led to the Church using Evanessa to fight underhandedly with the Imperial Pce. I think a scandal will be the most effective method. Somehow, during the month in which Evanessa will be staying at the Imperial Pce, she must make a justification that is enough for the temple to let her go. If she remains in the temple as is, the probability of a bad ending is over 90%. While thinking about this n, the support team had arrived. Daniel got off the carriage as quickly as possible andmanded the knights to clear the road. Fortunately, the citizens cleared more easily than usual, as they were a little shocked by Evanessas rough words. Shortly thereafter, the carriage began moving again. *** Chapter 7 The young prime minister, who had received a report as he awaited their approach at the front gate of the Imperial Pce, tilted his head. That Saintess Evanessa said that? Yes, Prime Minister. I heard it directly with my own ears. Hmmm. This is a big deal. Evanessa Halyn. The noble saintess of the Empire that has appeared after a hundred years. The manifestation of God sent by Lunium himself. That is the perception externally. However, in reality, the temple, which considers image management important, thoroughly cultivated the Saintess image since childhood like a nt. Saintess Evanessa, who has been sincerely serving the temple until now, made a remark that might degrade the image of the temple. It was also said to the citizens, who are the greatest support backing the temple. If it was the original Evanessa, the situation would have be worse as she would have disembarked the carriage and proceeded to shake the hands of the citizens. But for that Evanessa to speak so roughly? Beneath a fringe of hair long enough to cover his eyes and go all the way to the tip of his nose, the man smirked slightly. I wonder if it was the devil possessing the Saintess for a moment. Mark, the vicemander of the 1st Knights, who had run ahead to report the dyed arrival of the Saintess, trembled in response. You can verify it yourself. The carriage of the Saintess, who seeded in breaking away from the crowd, was approaching the gate of the Imperial Pce. As soon as the door to the carriage opened, Daniel came down first. And before Daniel could turn around, a small beautiful woman jumped off from the carriage. The thin veil was blown back revealing the face of thedy for a moment before it disappeared. ? ? Everyone looked at each other and then back at the Saintess who was brushing off the hem of her dress. Daniel opened his lips, then quickly shut them again. The hand he offered to the Saintess was pulled back. He seemed embarrassed at first nce, but upon closer inspection, it was clear he was holding in hisughter. Please read this at sleepyvis patreon. The young prime minister felt theughter hiding behind his lips, as he watched the situation with deepening interest. As he took a step forward, Evanessa felt his presence and turned her head. Her blue eyes finally met his gaze through the veil. Wee, Saintess Evanessa. We sincerely wee your safe arrival at the Imperial Pce. Would getting your rear beaten feel as painful as this? Inside the moving carriage, Evanessa gritted her teeth. After sitting in the carriage for so long, her pelvis felt like it was about to shatter. In this era where magic exists, why arent there any cars? With furtive eyes, Evanessa peeped out of the window. Since this was a carriage borrowed from Lady Beatrices family, it was definitely one of the finest carriages avable, and yet it still felt like her tailbone was screaming each time the carriage jolted over a bump. Just as Evanessa was certain that she couldnt take much more and had surreptitiously raised her hips, the carriage slowed to a halt. One of the knights knocked on the window to let them know that they had arrived. Are you well, Saintess? When Daniel anxiously asked this question, Evanessa hurriedly shook her head. The thin and long veil adorning her head rustled gently along with her movements. Let us both disembark, quickly. As her words were spoken through gritted teeth, Daniel felt like he had identally stepped on andmine. His shoulders hunching defensively, Daniel quickly turned away to open the carriage door. It looked like he was trying to hold in his breath. Only Please read this at sleepvis patreon. As Daniel hopped off the carriage with a frightening demeanor, Evanessa immediately followed in his footsteps as she was eager to escape the carriages stuffy interior. Hm? After brushing down her uselessly long dress, Evanessa raised her head. For some reason, the air felt strange. The people sent by the Emperor to wee her were staring at her with stupefied expressions. She saw Daniel, who had gotten off before her, turn away from her while biting his lips. Whats with this atmosphere? Evanessa needed to reflect on her own behavior. I bid you wee, Saintess Evanessa. Chapter 8 Her head turned towards the voice whose refined diction had caught her ears. The tall man standing there with a fringe of jet-ck hair covering half his face was apanied by a retinue of menservants and maids. That man is The prime minister of the empire who you would often encounter if you yed as the royal princess. Among the characters who werent capture targets, he received a lot of valuable screen time, a nameless extra who was also the empires one and only Grand Duke. Since Evanessa visits here every year, she should be acquainted with him at the very least. Evanessa bowed slightly while lifting her skirt in a curtsey. While this was a form of courtesy that Yewon never had any reason to learn as amon and casual citizen of modern-day Korea, the motion was performed instinctively. It felt as if the memory of the movement had been ingrained into her body. Could this have something to do with my stats? While Evanessa had been mocked for having low stats, due to the popes influence on her early education, her etiquette stat score was almost maxed out. It has been a long time, your Grand Dukeship. It would be convenient if her lines could alsoe out so naturally. However, she was lucky that she still had her experience from ying as the Royal Princess, who held an unrequited love for the prime minister. While it was still a problem that she didnt know his exact name, there was no danger of confusion from calling him by his formal title. Yes, I haventid eyes on you since the Founding Day Anniversary. The two of them casually made their way into the interior of the pce. Meanwhile, Daniel appeared preupied as he was inspecting the squad of knights who had been mobilized to serve as the saintesss escorts. In any case, Ill see himter at tonights dinner. Since she couldnt disturb him now, she would give him her regardster. As Evanessa walked off following the prime minister, the menservants, and maids who had been standing by fell into step behind her. I happened to hear that your Saintesss followers caused you some trouble again. As Evanessa walked along the corridor leading into the main pce, she raised her eyes. She looked up at the broad back that was just a step ahead of her. Yes. You dealt with them in a very refreshing manner. Yes? His Royal Highness has been left waiting for a while. What could it be? She had an unpleasant feeling as if she had just been rejected. After that, there was no more conversation between the two until they reached the audience room. The two knights stationed in front of the audience room bowed to the prime minister. As one of the menservants following them stepped forwards to announce the saintesss arrival, permission to enter was heard from inside. The knights guarding the entrance pulled open the doors. As if to say that the role he yed ended here, the prime minister stepped aside. So then, your Saintess, I will see you again at the wee party. Absorbed in the realization that she would soon meet the emperor face-to-face, Evanessa nodded tersely. Yes. Bye-bye. Bye-bye? Only The prime ministers lips quivered at the strange farewell that he had never heard before. Not noticing the mistake she had made, Evanessa disappeared inside and the menservants and maids following her took their ces in front of the door. The prime minister turned away, his index finger tapping at his lips in a habitual manner. As he walked toward the end of the corridor, his head cocked to the side in perplexity, he muttered under his breath. What could it mean? *** Evanessas guesses were spot-on. It was clear that this dating sim game had buffed her abilities. Although she didnt know anything about Western manners, her body reflexively sank to the floor on one knee in utmost courtesy as soon as sheid eyes on the emperor. Of course, her lines were still her own. It is my honor to see the noblest majesty of Luniums chosen empire. After ying as the saintess dozens of times, she had memorized the words of the greeting by heart. Because if you chose to target the crown princes route, you would have to repeat that greeting time after time. Chapter 9: ‘Somehow this feels like I’ve become Pavlov’s dog.’* Somehow this feels like Ive be Pavlovs dog.* Her body reacted to the people she met with the appropriate level of courtesy before her head had even registered it. It felt like she had been installed with an etiquette cheat key. If she thought about it, it wasnt like her to just stay still back when she had first met Daniel and he had kissed the back of her hand. Saintess Evanessa, you may lift your head. A dignified voice carried over her head. Her heart half-excited and half-worried, Evanessa tentatively raised her head. It was then that she met eyes with a handsome man who was a perfect fit for the description of a man in his prime. Evanessa hurriedly lowered her gaze. Its overwhelming. As she was only familiar with Asian faces from real life, her eyes couldnt adjust to meeting face-to-face with Western features. Especially those of the royal line of Grancia, all of whom possessed purple eyes. Actual purple irises. This was the first time she had ever seen such a thing. Be seated Obeying the emperors order, Evanessa rose from the ground and carefully took her ce on the sofa opposite the emperor. I heard that you met with some small trouble on your way here. yes lord. It has been hard on you. Should we dy your visit to the wizards tower this afternoon? Evanessas face paled when she heard the words wizards tower. They wanted her to walk into the den of the number 1 person that she had to avoid at all costs, the head of the wizards tower? It felt like she was a Level 1 beginner who had just received an impossible quest to subjugate a boss mob. Thinking about it, the very first thing that Evanessa was supposed to do upon entering the pce was to visit the wizards tower. To treat the people who had caught that Evanessa? Is your body not feeling well? Evanessas rtionship with the emperor had begun at a very young age. So she replied without any hesitation and in a very close manner as if she was talking to a friend of her fathers from real life. Yes. I feel like Im about to die. Although she was aware that her reply didnt conform with etiquette, she absolutely rejected anything to do with the wizards tower. Like a broken gear, her head was stuck on the fact that she would be heading down the worst route as soon she met the head wizard. I dont want to be caught and eaten like some domesticated monster by the head wizard! I absolutely dont want the cannibal ending! Desperately, Evanessa raised her head and looked straight at the emperor. The emperor met Evanessas gaze with a strange expression on his face. Even when her body was in a truly poor state, Evanessa was a child who would always show a smiling face and just repeatedly say, Im fine. The emperors face darkened. Maid! Are you there. Yes, your majesty. Only The maids voice was heard through the door. Call the physician to examine the saintesss condition. Under the usual circumstances, he would have called for priests blessed with sacred power instead of the physician. However, as the saintess who was known to be the representative of Lunium, she was also, in a way, a spiritual vessel that was constantly being filled with an infinite flow of magical power. The Grancia Empire held both the Lunium Church, whose priests held magic power and the Church of Helena, whose priests were blessed with sacred power. Sacred power and magic power were ipatible. The moment that sacred power entered the body of the saintess, the two forces would conflict with each other and create an immense shock. If things went badly, she could even die. This matter not only applied to Evanessa, it was also an issue for wizards, the priests of Lunium, and the imperial family who had received Luniums blessing. A physician belonging to the wizards tower, who was able to examine the flow of mana while it was inside someones body, arrived promptly. After meticulously examining the saintess with diagnostic magic, he turned towards the emperor with a perplexed look. *From the term Pavlovian response. A scientist who did research into a way to make someone respond instinctively to a certain trigger. Chapter 10 There appears to be nothing wrong with the saintess. However, it seems that she may have lost a lot of her vitality while on her way here. This was the first time that Evanessa felt grateful for her abysmal stamina. Eventually, her visit to the wizards tower was pushed back by two days. *** After the audience ended, Evanessa was guided by the maids and, upon entering the room she was directed to, she immediately sprawled onto the bed. The maids left her alone with the excuse that they would be preparing fresh water for her bath. Why, of all things, the wizards tower? On top of that, Evanessa had no idea how to treat that. Although she had seen a sh of light in the illustration, it wasnt as if a detailed exnation had been offered. In the games main storyline, Evanessa didnt y arge role. She only served as a tool for the pope to spread his own influence, while simultaneously curbing the imperial authority. Even when the yer chose Evanessa as their heroine, she didnt receive much attention. Her current situation was the type of subplot that would only receive a rough outline that could even be reced with a single illustration. I guess I definitely have to choose Daniels route? If you just disregarded the fact that he had an unrequited love for Lady Beatrice and was a deeply pious believer of the Lunium Church, he was the most normal and safe choice among the five male leads. There had been only one thing that had kept her from achieving the Happy Ending with Daniel. He was a devout believer. As he was a believer born into the church of Lunium, Evanessa couldnt be a target of affection for Daniel. Does it feel like a priest ising onto him when I approach him? But before that, how am I supposed to flirt with a man? This was an example of the serious musings of a 25 years old rtionship virgin. Someone knocked on the door of Evanessas room. It was the maid who had gone to prepare a bath for her so that she could freshen up for the wee party scheduled at dinner. Your saintess. We have finished preparing the bath. That was the start of her hellish makeover. By the time Evanessa had managed to pull herself free from the hands of the maids, there were only 30 minutes left until the wee party. What was the point As the icon of the church, the saintess had to cover her face with a veil at all times when outside of the church. This rule was enforced on the pretext ofpletely blocking her from having any contact with the opposite sex. In reality, those who had made this rule, like the pope and the other priests, were allowed to walk around with their bare faces despite being of the same holy profession. She had even heard that there were priests secretly having flings with young noblewomen. Isnt this a type of discrimination? However, the maids had carefully decorated this face that was just going to be covered up anyway. Before she put on the veil, the maids had made a fuss about admiring her looks as they circled her. Your saintess. You are really too beautiful. Only The fact that I am able to see the saintesss face every year brings evesting honor to my family. It is truly a shame that we have to cover up such a masterpiece. While she listened to the maids paying lip service, Evanessa stared at the beauty in the mirror with an expressionless face. Its not like its my real face anyway. However, she had to admit that she really was beautiful. She gently stared at the reflection in the mirror of her beautiful body, that could only be described as pure or graceful, and how the ivory-colored dress she was wearing emphasized her elegant curves. You have all worked hard. Thank you for dressing me up so beautifully. For some reason, the maids expressions seemed strange. Then once again, someone was heard knocking at the door. One of the maids who looked to be in her teens left the room to check who was at the door, only to return to the powder room with an ted look on her face. Chapter 11: “Your saintess. The knights who are to escort you have arrived.” Your saintess. The knights who are to escort you have arrived. After continuously looking bored throughout the whole makeover, Evanessas expression finally showed some changes. Tonight was the point from which the writer had begun the main storyline. Also, outside the door stood the safest male lead in the entire game who Evanessa had been waiting for. As the one in charge of escorting the Saintess to the banquet, Daniel was waiting for her in a pce garden. . It was a garden with a small fountain inscribed with the moon, Luniums emblem. The May roses, centered in the fountain, were in full bloom. Without realizing, Daniel reached out and touched the engraving of the moon. Saintess Evanessa Halyn He used to visit the temple every day with his mother, a faithful believer of Lunium. Among those visits, he could count on his hand the number of times he had seen the saintess. Even then, they were all from a distance. Daniel tilted his head and muttered, she seems to be very differentpared to the person I heard about. Who is? The voice that was suddenly heard from behind him caused the sculpture-watching Daniels face to harden. He hadnt sensed any presence. As the youngest sword master of the Empire and the top of the knights, he should have noticed the signs. Daniels eyes widened as he slowly turned around. He snapped open his lips and asked in a confused tone. .Are you the Saintess? Yes. Have you been waiting long? The veil.? The pale face revealed under the bright moonlightughed cynically. I took it off. It was frustrating. Anyway, she thought there was no need to obey the rules of an unfair temple on the grounds that she was hoping to escape the church. Although that viper-like old man wont just sit still. She would be safe for at least a month in the Imperial Pce. In that time, she needed to somehow make an excuse not to return to the temple. And its a waste. Evanessa didnt want to cover up the hard work of the maids who had gotten so excited whilst dressing her up without the veil. Then, shall we go? Daniels eyes shook. Evanessa, who was trying to take the lead, suddenly stopped and turned to Daniel with a serious expression. But, where are we supposed to go? *** The venue of the Saintesss wee ceremony was the Grand Hall located in the Imperial Pce, which was also only opened for the founding day or a birth in the Imperial Family. It was a hall with a grandeur worthy of its name as the best party hall in the Imperial Pce. In the hall, which was decorated with various flowers and jewels, nobles gathered and chatted. Just below the tform where the Emperor stood, an orchestra performed ssical music. The youngdy from the house of Duke Sagrina has juste back after studying abroad, right? Standing in the center of the nobledies, the person who first spoke up was the wife of a Marquis. Only The Saintesss wee party and the timing of her return are exquisitely ovepping. Rumors are circting that the crown princes partner for today is the young Sagrinady. If its the Sagrina family, as a family that has contributed so much to the nation, it would only be appropriate. A much better pairing than thatmon-born Saintess, no?? Nobledies in gorgeous dresses nced at the entrance of the banquet hall with scorn. However, the true protagonist they are waiting for has not yet appeared. The young noblemen who were standing off to the side were also looking at the entrance with interested expressions and frequent nces. Did you hear the rumor? They say her face under the veil is grotesque. My father said it was a side effect of treating it. So, isnt this farce over? In fact, this isnt a wee party for the Saintess, but rather an engagement announcement of Lady Sagrina and Crown Prince. At that time, the loud voice of the Chambein announced the entrance of the imperial married couple. The ssical music was cut off. All the nobles scattered around the hall began politely gathering around the red carpet in the center and prepared to show their courtesy. Chapter 12 It looks like the Saintess has yet to arrive, stated the Emperor, as he looked around the hall after taking the Empresss hand and climbing onto the tform. The Emperor raised his left hand, and the musicians started ying their instruments again. The nobles, who had not moved an inch until the Emperor passed by, began to move one by one. The nobles that gathered around the tables loaded with desserts and lowered their voices as they chatted, conscious of the Emperor. The Saintess is always one step behind. Indeed, youre right. Sir Kirillian is the one I really feel sorry for. After seeding the former count, he has to run around looking after the Saintess. At that time, the voice of the gatekeeper guarding the entrance rang out. Saintess Evanessa Halyn and Count Daniel Kirillian! The faces of the nobles looking toward the entrance became stupefied. The young noblemen and noblewomen, who were not good at managing their expressions, had their mouths agape. Even the Emperor, who sat and chatted with the Empress on the tform, could not hide his shock. For 365 days of the year, even when attending the Emperor, she always wore a veil; thus creating many rumors. It was at this moment when Evanessas bare face was revealed for the first time. *** There was one thing that Evanessa could not have anticipated. She didnt know when ying the game, but Daniel was just as directionally challenged as Evanessa. Was it about four times that I tried to win Daniel over with Evanessa? Every time Yewon yed Daniels route, it led to a sad ending in which she was abandoned because of her excessive faith. After seeing the same ending all four times, she ran out of steam and didnt try again. Isnt this a configuration error? Although Evanessa was characteristically bad with directions, it hadnt shown up anywhere in the game that he was the same. In addition, she had heard that this gentleman was definitely the youngest swordmaster. Evanessa kept theseints to herself. It was definitely this direction when I memorized the map, Daniel muttered embarrassedly. They were currently in the opposite direction of the Grand Hall where the party was currently being held. When the two arrived at the side of a dark pond, where absolutely no one was present, a system message was heard in Evanessas ears: [You have now entered a hidden location in the game.] Doesnt this have a mute function? Every time they circled the pond, the message echoed in Evanessas head causing it to ache. Something is familiar with this scenery. A neglected and abandoned vi that was pushed to the outskirts of the Imperial Pce and a pond overgrown with greenery and bushes. For there to be a ce where none of the maids and servants scurrying around the Imperial Pce would ever dare to go, she knew of only one location. I think it would be better to go back to where we started. Although it wasnt possible because of the banquet, they may have been able to encounter the crown prince here if they werent lucky. Because this ce was the crown princes, Yurisians, secret hiding spot. Only Daniel looked back at Evanessa with a bleak expression. It hasnt been long since I came to the Imperial Pce, so I havent been able to fully memorize the path yet. My apologies. But, since you are a Sword Master, cant you sense aura? We should be fine if we head in the direction of where you can sense the most auras. Daniel turned his head away to avoid the nk look cast towards him. For some reason, an ominous premonition swept over her. Sir Kirillian? Strangely, I cant feel anything when Im with you Saintess. This was followed by an exnation that his usually sharp senses were forcibly dulled when Evanessa was near. For a Sword Master, sensing was like life. But with Evanessa present, the feeling of the senses being dulled was no different from being forcibly disarmed. Not only was she failing to build up rtionship points, Evanessa now felt like she had be the person he would most want to avoid. As she wandered around the pond with Daniel, Evanessas face became crestfallen. Chapter 13: ‘What… kind of in-game handicap is this.’ What kind of in-game handicap is this. It seems like the Saintess is a special case. I do not know of a specific reason. Between Daniel scratching his cheek and Evanessa, whose expression was desperate, a chilly wind that didnt suit May blew between them. Its my wee ceremony, but what if I miss it? Evanessa suddenly became overwhelmed by everything and looked up at Daniel with hazy eyes. She saw Daniels pupils shaking violently. Wouldnt that cause you a lot of grief? Fortunately, the two of them were rescued at the hands of a manservant, who had stumbled into the forbidden area while chasing a rabbit that had intruded into the Imperial Pce. I feel like I just threw away a huge opportunity with my own hands. Panicked by an unexpected handicap setting, Evanessa blew her opportunity to be alone with Daniel. She felt sorry for a moment, but then she shook her head and cleared away the negative thoughts. Any n that tries to do everything in a hurry, will just end up losing everything. Evanessa, who was being escorted by Daniel, safely reached the entrance of the Grand Hall and came to a stop. Daniel, who had revealed their identities by showing the doorkeeper their invitation, looked at her with a puzzled expression. Saintess? Is there something wrong? Ah. We really cant y hooky? Evanessa looked up at Daniels face with an expression that seemed to imply it was a waste. Daniel responded by asking confusedly, ying hooky? Its nothing. There is no way Daniel, the Knights leader, would join the reckless n of the Saintess, who he had met for the first time today. While Evanessa sighed, the gatekeeper loudly called out their names. Saintess Evanessa Halyn and Count Daniel Kirillian are entering!. As she walked into the banquet hall, arm-in-arm with Daniel, the gazes fell on her like a spotlight. There seemed to be the sound of dozens of eyeballs rolling at the same time. Some of the owners of those eyes were looking at Evanessa with their mouths agape. With a stiff expression, Evanessa stepped onto the red carpet in the center of the hall. She endured the stares and opted to walk faster. However, the persistent gazes caused the panic to set in. Evanessa talked to Daniel in a way that resembled ventriloquism, as her eyes looked into the distance. Why is the atmosphere like this? The atmosphere of the people gathered was somewhat strange. Even when Yewon yed the game, the atmosphere didnt seem so turbid. You really dont know? Daniel replied without moving his lips as well. To others, the two seemed to walk down the red carpet side-by-side with expressionless faces. Yes. Maybe because of the veil. It looks like they were all talking about the veil that she had taken off in a fit of irritation after it left her feeling like she had been shackled. Well. The veil had be a symbol of Evanessa. Even in the game, there were only a few instances in which Evanessas bare face was revealed. Thats why Yewon turned this over on the first day of the full-fledged main story. I have no ns to use it in the future. Is such a reaction inevitable every time they see it? Only Daniels shoulders shuddered while listening to the words. His neat jaw was taut. Please dont make meugh. Daniel, who sounded almost like he was begging, stared straight ahead. His lips were twitching slightly. Which part was funny.? Evanessa, who was embarrassed, stared straight ahead with her mouth shut. At the end of the red carpet was the tform where the imperial couple was seated. The sound of the music gradually faded. Under the attention of all the nobles in the hall, Evanessa and Daniel bowed side-by-side. Both of you raise your heads. Evanessa, how is your body?, the Emperor asked with a friendly father-like face. It was a faceposed of political reasons. The Empress, sitting next to the Emperor, was staring at Evanessa as if she were a strange object. Thanks for your consideration, my condition has greatly improved. Thank goodness. Once again, wee to the Imperial Pce. Rather than that, Daniel The thundering voice of the gatekeeper was heard, right when the questioning was turning to Daniel. Chapter 14 The Young Sun of the Empire chosen by Lunium, His Majesty Yurisian Lunium Grancia, and Lady Beatrice Sagrina are entering! The two new arrivals, who were both ranked as the number one male and female leads in the game, were apanied by a frightening system message. [The main story Meeting a Suspicious Extra at the Banquet has now begun!] Inside the dating sim game, Midnight, the main female lead who boasted cheat-like stats was ady named Beatrice Sagrina. Evanessa watched from the corner of her eye as Beatrice made her way across the red carpet, whilst being escorted by the Crown Prince. Meeting a Suspicious Extra at the Banquet? That doesnt sound like the story I know. Through a vortex of confusion, Beatrices distinct features entered her vision. Long hair that was dyed in a gradation of sunset hues and scarlet eyes. Skin so fine that it seemed like it might crumble at a touch. If Evanessa could be called a pure beauty, then Beatrice could only be called a morous beauty. Seeing her in person gave off apletely different feelingpared to seeing her in a smartphone illustration. She felt like she had just spotted a famous celebrity from real life. On top of that, a different system message upset herposure. [You have recalled that a special scene did not ur during the banquet.] Before the meeting with a suspicious extra could ur, she needed to quickly escape to the terrace. Evanessa purposefully avoided turning her attention towards the Crown Prince. Even without looking at him, she could guess what kind of gaze he was aiming at her. Inside the games original setting, Evanessa held an unrequited love for the Crown Prince. She had even experienced this for herself while ying as Evanessa. In the case where Yewon chose to pursue one of the other male leads, it was only after transferring Evanessas affections away from the prince. Although she was curious about the real-life Crown Prince, it wasnt worth continuing to endure the stressing from all the eyes she felt on her. Before the Crown Prince and Lady Beatrice could draw closer, Evanessa quickly whispered to the Emperor. Well then, your Majesty. We will take our leave now. A weird expression briefly shed over the Emperors face, before he nodded his head. Evanessa dragged Daniel, who was gormlessly staring at Beatrice, away and headed towards a remote corner of the banquet. The center of attention was now transfixed on the Crown Prince and Lady Beatrice. Nearly everyone was staring at the couple with curious eyes. Now then, Sir Kirillian. I hope that you have a good time. Something urgent hase up, so Ill leave you here. Y-Yes? Saintess? Daniel, after nodding unintentionally, turned his head towards her with rounded eyes. However, Evanessa had already walked some distance away. Leaving her partner, Daniel, behind, Evanessa was headed to a table near the terrace that wasden with finger foods. As everyone was looking at the Crown Prince and Lady Beatrice, she quietly made her way through the crowd like an unseen wind. Geez, Im hungry. Only From leaving the church up to this moment, she hadnt been able to eat anything. Her churning stomach had been letting her body know that it was hungry for a while now. Ill just grab some of this and go out onto the terrace. Although Evanessa wanted to eat a proper meal, all she could see were desserts. With swift movements, she quickly piled some onto her te. When she took a testing bite, the sweet taste captivated the tip of her tongue. Wow. Whats with this vor. Evanessa set her sights on having a lovely time with these desserts. After dazedly staring from a distance at the sight of Evanessa gorging herself on pudding, Daniel had to quickly bite his lips. Even with that, he couldnt stop a small chuckle from leaking out. The nearby youngdies stared at the secretlyughing Daniel as their faces blushed. Daniel was currently vying with the Crown Prince for the number 1 and 2 positions in the youngdies list of the most eligible bachelor. Chapter 15 Daniel, who wasnt aware of this fact, thought, So this is the real her What an extraordinary Saintess. Although, at the same time, shes the pr opposite of the noble image I had of her. [Daniel Kirillian feels that your behavior is refreshing. You have umted 1 affection point. Your total umted points are 1.] Evanessa paused as she was heading to the terrace after demolishing a pudding in seconds. Hm? It was a message that made her suspicious of her own hearing. Although she quickly searched her surroundings, she couldnt see where Daniel had gone off to. Could it have been a system error? Tilting her head questioningly, Evanessa arrived in front of the terrace door. Just then, the orchestra switched to performing a minuet. Stealing a nce behind her, she saw the Crown Prince and Lady Beatrice give their greetings to the Imperial Couple and then move to the middle of the banquet floor, hand-in-hand. Although it was true that as the banquets guest of honor, the Saintess and her partner should have the first dance, thankfully the church had a rule that she was to keep her distance from all men, except her escort, and avoid physical contact. Being proficient in etiquette and being able to dance well were two entirely different matters. Evanessa not onlycked stamina, but her flexibility was also of a deplorable standard. On top of that, I dont know anything about this worlds dances. Evanessa quietly opened the door to the terrace. In order to not only avoid the suspicious main story, but also the Crown Prince, she had to run away before this dance ended. ording to the games storyline, the Crown Prince would approach Evanessa once the dance was over and get into an argument with her. Unlike the current pacifistic Emperor, the Crown Prince was aligned with the Royalist Faction, which sought to increase imperial authority. In other words, he views the church as an eyesore. He had nothing good to say to the Saintess, who could be said to act as a mascot of the church. Every time she progressed with the Princes storyline, he would approach the Saintess to make a fool out of her; thus, tarnishing the image of the church in the eyes of the surrounding nobility. Although the churchs image no longer matters to me. She wasnt confident that she would be able to meekly give in, as the original Evanessa had done after being subjected to the Crown Princes argument. She also declined to be mocked in front of this many people. Evanessa, who entered the terrace without any disturbances, immediately closed the door and shut the curtains carefully, so that all the light from inside was blocked. This was a signal that someone was inside who did not wish to be disturbed. Letting out a sigh of relief, Evanessa looked down at her feet that had started throbbing painfully since a while ago. Her heels were hurting because of the unfamiliar pumps she was wearing. cing her dish onto a nearby table, Evanessa sat down and took off her shoes without any hesitation. After rolling her shoulders that were stiff from tension, she took a short stretch. Suddenly, she felt the presence of a person from the terrace balustrade. Evanessas face stilled as she btedly noticed a shadow being cast by the light. Only This is really I have to say, every time I see you, you prove to be so interesting. The neer who was cloaked in darkness stepped out into the moonlight. *** Even as the Crown Prince Yurisian was dancing with Lady Beatrice, his sharp eyes scanned his surroundings. The saintess who was usually hovering around him was nowhere to be seen today. What kind of scheme is she up to now? From the moment he stepped into the banquet, something felt off. For her to take off the veil that she had worn with more care than she gave her own life, and thus reveal her bare face. If it wasnt for the whispers in his surroundings, he wouldnt have believed it. As the puppet of the church, this couldnt just be Evanessa acting arbitrarily. This was definitely a step in that wolf-in-sheep-skin popes plot. Your highness. Is something worrying you? Chapter 16 After the dance ended, they moved to a nearby table, and Beatrice asked her question with a tilt of the head. A thin smile crossed Yurisians cold face. Its not something that you need to be concerned about. Have you returned for good this time? Yes. As I have now finished all my required studies. Thedy smiled with her eyes. In ones and twos, the other nobles tactfully began to enter the Crown Prince and Lady Beatrices vicinity. Although it had been a long time since she hadst been out in society, thedy skillfully handled pleasantries with the various nobles. While he was standing expressionlessly at thedys side, Yurisians face suddenly stiffened. As the fastened, blue curtains of the terrace were fluttered open by a gust of wind, it slightly exposed a view of the terraces interior. A familiar, yet the unfamiliar woman was seen standing inside. There was a sh of her ck hair, which was a rare sight in the empire, that disappeared instantly. Evanessa Halyn. The empires one and only Saintess who, together with the Pope, served as his greatest opponent. A clear hostility rose in the Crown Princes purple eyes as he red at the terrace. *** Evanessa was embarrassed to be caught in the middle of stretching while seated in her chair. Due to this, one of the shoes she was holding in her hands dropped onto the ground. She didnt have the thought to spare to pick it back up. The person who appeared from the shadows of the terrace, where shed never imagined that anyone would be hiding, was the Grancia Empires young Prime Minister. The Suspicious Extra. With absolutely perfect timing, she had just thought of a different possible meaning for that phrase. Because inside of the game, the extra who yed the most important role was, in fact, this man. You were already here? Evanessa couldnt hide her disgruntled expression as she stared at his disheveled head of hair. It was such a birds nest that it made her instinctively want to reach for ab. It seems like youre more aggressive than you look, Saintess Evanessa. The prime minister bent over at the waist and picked up her shoe that had fallen to the floor. Then, as if he was having second thoughts, he stilled momentarily. While Evanessa stared at him with a quizzical expression, the prime minister slowly walked up to her until he was standing right in front of her face. A cool, lemony scent wafted past her nose. Her eyes caught on the stretch of skin exposed by his loose cor and tie. He read the path of Evanessas wandering eyes and asked, are you still thinking of staying here? Evanessa, who was trying to figure out who was easier to deal with between the suspicious extra and the rude crown prince, took a deep breath. Would it be alright if I stayed here for just half an hour more? It would be very troublesome for me if I go out now. If she left now, there was a 99% chance that she would be spotted by the Crown Prince, and she would definitely get caught in his act of harassment. The prime minister lowered his body to the floor until he was resting on one knee and said, do as you please. Alright. Although I am very grateful what on earth are you doing? I am only showing you the proper courtesy. Only After pulling on a white glove that he took out from a jacket pocket, the prime minister gently lifted Evanessas ankle. Then, he took the shoe he had picked up and slipped it back onto Evanessas foot. Evanessas whole body stiffened as the soft texture of his glove grazed along the top of her foot. Would you like me to put on the other shoe? Was this person making fun of her? I never asked you to put it on in the first ce. I just wanted to try it out once. After saying all that he had to say, the Prime Minister stood up. The man, who was two heads taller than Evanessa, looked down at her nkly. Evanessas eyes frowned as she bent over to put on her remaining shoe. Chapter 17: “As your Archdukeship is obstructing the moonlight, it has left me quite in the dark.” As your Archdukeship is obstructing the moonlight, it has left me quite in the dark. Even when you are telling me to get out of your way, it seems so fresh. As the chuckling Prime minister stepped aside, he tilted his head inquisitively. Its quite amazing. What is? You have be apletely different person after only a few months. A sudden breeze fluttered the disheveled fringe of hair that had drooped down to the Prime Ministers nose. No, should I say that it feels like there is a different soul possessing your body? Evanessa, who had just shoved her foot into the high heel, suddenly froze. As a hairpin suddenly slid out of ce, a strand of her hair that had been carefully set into her updo fell forward. A smooth, silk glove grazed the immobilized Evanessas earlobe as it brushed the strand of hair to the side. Well then, please take good care of yourself. Saintess Evanessa. A strong scent of lemons brushed past her as he left. The sound of music and peoples voices rose for a moment before it dropped again. Click. Left alone in the silence, Evanessa turned her stiff head to stare at the door that the Prime Minister had left through. Just now, he definitely No, should I say that it feels like there is a different soul possessing your body? She was certain that it was just a random guess thrown out after seeing a difference in her appearance. Her head started throbbing and her heart was racing at full speed. It felt like she was a child who had just got caught stealing. Although Evanessa was still off-bnce, she rose from her chair. By now, the Crown Prince and Lady Beatrices dance should have ended and, at this time, they would be surrounded by nobles. I dont want to go back through the door. Evanessa approached the balustrade and gauged the distance to the ground by eye. Because the grand hall that was hosting the banquet was on the Imperial Pces second floor, the drop seemed possible, if a bit reckless. It would be a better option than causing a scandal by exiting from the terrace that the Prime Minister had just left. He isnt even a capture target, theres no reason to get caught up in a scandal. As the main storyline had now begun, she needed to manage her actions carefully in order to enter the route towards the happy ending. Evanessa took off the shoe that the Prime Minister had put on for her, and its pair, and grabbed hold of the balustrade. Luckily, below the terraceid a garden with a soft bed of grass. Tossing down the shoes that were in her hands first, Evanessa jumped over the balustrade without a second thought. Just then, the closed terrace door swung open. Fortunately, the person who entered the terrace didnt witness Evanessas strange behavior. Beneath the railing, Evanessa held her breath and leaned against the wall. The light reflected onto the garden, casting a long shadow over thewn. Saintess Evanessa? The garden, immersed in darkness, was so quiet that not even the sound of insects could be heard. Therefore, the voice of the man looking for her could be heard clearly. Thats odd. I was definitely told that shed be here. The shadow that was snooping above her head left. Something, likely her te, shed and then disappeared. Only Evanessa only moved after the doors closed and the music hadpletely disappeared. Her whole body was stiff due to nerves. For Evanessa, this day seemed to be full of iprehensible matters. It seems like they were just a servant. For now, Evanessa quickly set off towards her room. The words that the prime minister had said on the terrace wouldnt leave her mind. That was why Evanessa didnt notice a pair of curious, young eyes watching her. After she faded into the distance, a ck shadow fell down from therge Elm tree in the garden. She is very different from the rumors. The shadow let out a low whistle as it watched Evanessas figure shrink into a dot and disappear. In what seemed to be a habit for when something pleasant urred, he hummed a tune that was carried away by the wind. Chapter 18: Thin lips rose into a smile as the man walked into the light of the banquet hall. Thin lips rose into a smile as the man walked into the light of the banquet hall. This will be fun. Evanessa was unlike anything he had ever heard of. *** Upon returning to her room, Evanessa stared silently at the status window floating in the air. Below all of her rotten stats, right at the end of the screen, [Affection points: 1] could be seen. Wasnt that a system error? Affection points were only awarded when she was able to make a good impression on the male characters. In fact, less than five was actually considered good as it could be seen as a curiosity and rising interest. Evanessa unconsciously reached out and hugged the pillow as she sat on the bed. What could it have been for? No, was it that easy to get an affection point in the first ce? Unintentionally, on the first day of starting the main story, Evanessa got one affection point. Even when ying the game religiously, getting a point was incredibly difficult. I barely managed to collect three. Yewon collected the three points by ying tenaciously and carefully choosing her options while progressing along Daniels route. But even that was a failure, as the minimum amount of points required to open the hidden stories were five. In the game, you had to unlock each and every hidden story of a male lead to achieving a happy ending. Favorability and intimacy were important to unlocking hidden stories. In the game, Evanessa couldnt even unlock a single hidden story for any of the male leads. Ah, my head hurts. Evanessa wondered what the identity of the minister was. She thought he was just a significant extra in the game. So, is he the suspicious extra? He seemed like a sharp person who had even noticed that she was a transmigrated soul from another world. Evanessa reflexively tightened her hold on the pillow and bit her lip. I should avoid him for now, thought Evanessa. Although he was an unnamed extra, she had a strong feeling that it would do her no good to get involved with him. However, Evanessa would encounter the suspicious extra again, just a day after making such a firm decision. *** In order to survive effectively in an unfamiliar world, general information about the world is essential. The only information Evanessa knew was the approximate worldview of the game, the basic personalities of the male leads, and the routes she had learned from her many gameys. There were also some hidden stories I learned while ying as Beatrice. However, even if she had some basic knowledge of the Grancia Empire, the main stage of the game she will be living in, it was still inadequate. Because I do not know what unexpected variables might ur. Evanessa got up early in the morning, organized her thoughts, ate a simple breakfast, and headed to the Imperial Pces library. Of course, she didnt do anything rash like heading out to find the library by herself as she was a natural airhead when it came to directions. Only Thank you. Evanessa politely thanked the attendant who had brought her to the library. The attendant bowed with a nk expression and then walked away. The Imperial Pces library was arge and spacious three-story building; iparable to the ce where she used to work. In order to find a librarian, she entered the first floor of the library and went to meet the librarian. Tall bookshelves were densely packed together like trees. In the center, there was a wide solid wood table where books could be read. Morning sunlight poured in through the arched windows that were arranged around the room. The library was quiet this morning; the air was a pleasant harmony of the scents of old books and wood. Oh? Evanessa managed to find a ce that looked like an information desk, but the librarian was absent. Even in the library, she worked at, they were usually busy organizing the returned books in the morning. She was forced to go back and forth between shelves, looking for the historical culture section. Then she saw her. A little girl with a petite and delicate silhouette. The girl, with her hair woven into a braid, was leaning against a window and flipping through a thick, illustrated book of animals. Chapter 19: ‘Let’s go a different way.’ Lets go a different way. With determination, Evanessa quickly turned around. A tremulous candle-like voice stopped her in her tracks. Wait, are you Saintess Evanessa? Equipped with an etiquette cheat key, her body turned automatically and prepared to give a greeting suitable for the royal family. Greetings to the Young Moon of the Empire chosen by Lunium. Evanessa hated having to say this strange greeting and had hoped to avoid it somehow. Evanessa stifled a sigh and looked up. The girl in front of her was one of Midnights heroines, Princess Mika Lunium Grancia. The princess, who reminded Evanessa of a small, gentle rabbit,ughed while covering her face with the book. Her violet eyes sparkled with liveliness. This unexpected meeting seemed like it would be pleasant. You dont have to be so polite, Saintess. If I dont show the Royal Family such courtesy, I will lose my head, Princess. Mikas face became dazed for a moment. The corners of Evanessas mouth pulled up and sheughed. Just kidding. It sounded real. That aside, it was a pity that you left early yesterday. I heard you werent feeling well. Are you okay now?, asked Mika, concerned. Upon returning to her roomst night, Evanessa asked a passing maid to deliver a message, Tell the Emperor that I shall take my leave first as Im not feeling well. Fortunately, it seems the message was delivered. Yes. As you can see, Im fine. Thats a relief. Mika sighed in relief. Among the female protagonists of Midnight, she was the purest and gentle. She had the second highest y rate amongst users, behind Beatrice. Are there any books that you are looking for?, asked Mika as if she were a librarian. Come to think of it, she is a bibliophile. It urred to Evanessa that she could get a book rmendation from Mika without having to go searching through the shelves. Just as Evanessa was about to open her mouth, Mikas face, which was half-covered by a book, turned red in a sh. [Princess Mika feels a strong embarrassment at the current situation.] She heard yet another system message. It seemed to be configured so that status messages of not only the male leads but also the heroines, were delivered as well. So you were in a ce like this. Saintess Evanessa. That diction, it cant be Evanessa turned around with her face void of any emotion. The person that she had decided to avoid only a day ago, was standing right there. Your Archdukeship. Ive been looking for you for a while. Why me? The red lips under his sleek nose rose slightly, causing dimples to appear. His Majesty, not I, is the one looking for you. *** The ce the Prime Minister took Evanessa to was a dome-shaped, ss-roofed greenhouse, located behind the pce. Evanessa had heard that this ce was a gift given by the Emperor himself to the Empress, whose hobby was taking care of nts. The room was filled with rare nts and flowers. Every time she inhaled, the fresh fragrance of nts would sweep through her lungs. You dont have to be so vignt. Evanessa, who was following about three steps behind the Prime Minister, flinched. I havent been? Is that so? You dont believe me? If thats what you say. The Prime Minister, who had been walking, stopped abruptly. The Emperor, his wife, and Lady Beatrice were sitting around a circr table in the middle of the greenhouse having a friendly tea party. Only Beatrice, while conversing, felt a presence and turned her head. Right then, the prime minister announced the arrival of Evanessa. Your Majesty. I have brought Saintess Evanessa Halyn. Oh. Come and sit down. Once more, the prime minister was acting as a guide. He whispered to Evanessa as she passed. Its a pity that the medicine I prepared wasnt delivered properly. Medicine? What medicine? However, Evanessa had no time to ask questions as she had to show proper respect to the Emperor and his wife. Evanessa headed to the table under the guidance of an attendant. Her seat was next to the youngdy. Another attendant was waiting while holding a teapot; they hurried to pull out the chair. Evanessa greeted the imperial couple and sat down. Chapter 20: ‘Is this a side story?’ Is this a side story? It was unlikely that the Emperor had called her to this ce to talk without any deeper reason. As she had expected. [Now, Wee to the Side Story Sweet, Subtle Tea Time!] This must be your first time meeting officially. Beatrice, were you seventeen when you left to study abroad? Yes. Even when I visited the temple, I only saw you a few times from afar. The youngdy elegantly smiled at Evanessa. My name is Beatrice Sagrina of the Sagrina Family, Saintess. Its an honor to my family to meet you like this. I am Evanessa Halyn. Nice to meet you, Lady Sagrina. Evanessa picked up her teacup. Her head was spinning. The Imperial Familys assistance was needed in order to escape the temple. In order to obtain the help of the Imperial Family, it was best to gain the favor of the Emperor, who was the master of the Imperial Pce, and sat at the top of the power structure. Since the moment the Emperor had called her here, she had been running through her options in her head. Evanessa silently drank her tea with a smile. Just as Beatrice was leading the conversation, a topic rted to festivals on other continents popped up. Over there, when it became evening, everyone took off their shoes and danced together. Evanessa set down the teacup andughed. You must like festivals. Theyre interesting and fun because the atmospheres vary from country to country. Did you know that the Empire is in the middle of the Lunium Festival? I heard that it was, but I havent been able to truly experience it yet. I have been busy with various things after returning home. Fortunately, Beatrice also admitted that she had never properly participated in the Lunium Festival before she left to study abroad. The Emperors expression became strange as he listened to the twos conversation from the side. This was the very image the Emperor had wanted to achieve by calling Evanessa here. The meeting was intended to show that the temple was clearly subordinate to the Imperial Family by having the Saintess perform a public disy of her support for Lady Sagrina, a long-time loyalist, whose family was one of the founders of the nation. However, as if she had already pinpointed his true intentions, Evanessa brought up the idea first. If you dont mind, why dont we attend the festival together? I havent fully experienced it yet either. If this were like the game, it would have been impossible for Evanessa to visit the festival with thedy. This was due to the Pope, who would have noticed what the Emperor wanted to imply and made excuses to bar the two of them from going out together. At this point, Evanessa heard a system message. [ Lady Beatrice Sagrina feels a slight affinity towards your proposal.] Beatrice smiled widely. I would love that. A satisfied smile flickered across the Emperors lips and then disappeared. The Empress sat silently beside him, drinking her tea with a quiet expression on her face. . Evanessa mentally breathed a sigh of relief. The Emperor seems to be satisfied for the moment. It wouldnt be a bad idea to build up an acquaintance with Beatrice, who had a strong influence in the game. Only In order to get Daniel, thisdy is a mountain that needs to be ovee. No matter how hard she thought about it, the best route for a happy ending was Daniels route. However, Evanessas ns would not go smoothly. Because, the next afternoon, Evanessa would visit the tower and encounter a problem. The day had finallye. The day that Evanessa would be forced to enter the den of the number 1 person that she did not want to get involved with. Although she had spent the entire night sleeplessly trying to think of a solution; there was no way for someone from twenty-first century Korea to suddenly perform magic. For now, should I just try to mimic the motions? Evanessa stared up at the white tower that bathed in an artificial fog. It was so tall that she couldnt see how high it went. Its an honor to meet you, Saintess! My name is Terry and I look forward to receiving your guidance! Chapter 21 A young wizard, who was full of spirit, came out to greet Evanessa. He had definitely drawn the short straw. Any wizard would be reluctant to enter the room where the patients who had caught that were quarantined. Although Terry looked like he was in histe teens judging solely by his appearance, the chances were high that he was older than he looked. Wizards were endowed with slower aging and longer lifespans due to their innate magic. This was a fact made immediately apparent just by looking at the churchs pope. We have all been waiting anxiously for the Saintess. After finishing his introductions, the magician named Terry kept on talking. Evanessa absentmindedly listened to his chatter and responded only when appropriate. After passing through the Wizards Towers illusionary barrier, the two found themselves standing in front of five different doors. Without any hesitation, Terry opened the door that was the second from the right. This was a trap meant to impede any intruders. As anyone who tried to enter, without an escort, would find themselves returned to the entrance after a day; if you wanted to visit the Wizards Tower, you absolutely needed to be apanied by one of the wizards residing within. When Terry opened the door, it revealed an endlessly rising, spiral staircase. We dont really have to walk all the way up there, do we? Evanessa stared up at the spiral staircase with distant eyes. As the servants and maids following her were left stationed at the entrance to the tower, Evanessa was all alone. Terry reached into the front of his robes and started taking things out, searching for the correct item, andmented,You know, all of us are more than a little disappointed that the Saintess can only formally visit us here at the Wizards Tower a few times a year. Will we be going to the top floor again? Yes! After all, its best to contain that as much as possible. Even so, there was another reason why the top floor of the Wizards Tower had be an asylum where the patients were kept isted. In the game, apart from the ordinary inhabitants of the tower who were responsible for the housekeeping of the upper floors, the rest of the wizards towers residents were actually housed on the lowest floors. Evanessa avoided looking at a specific alcove on the first floor that connected to a corridor. Well then, Saintess, please pardon my rudeness. Is he about to use magic? As this scene didnt receive a detailed exnation in the game, Evanessa silently nodded her head in eptance. Following this, Terry gently ced a hand on Evanessas shoulder. The item that Terry finally retrieved from the front of his robes was a ck dragon-shaped stone. He then started chanting in some unintelligiblenguage. At the same time, something simr to white mist poured out from the tips of Terrys fingers and wrapped around the stone. Suddenly, the dragons jaws snapped open and a mysterious phenomenon began to take ce. Whoa! Firstly, her view of their surroundings started to blur, and then countless scenes started shing past her eyes as if a video had been fast-forwarded. Secondly, a terrible feeling, like she had been sucked into a vacuum, came over her and her inner ear was shaken, leaving her violently nauseous. Only A momentter, arge iron gate appeared before Evanessa, who had pped both hands over her mouth. Huh? Saintess, could it be did you actually keep your eyes open? Terry was rmed at seeing Evanessas obviously distressed condition. He hadnt purposefully missed out on informing her of the precautions to take. After all, Evanessa was supposed to have already visited the wizards tower twice a year. rgh! Ah! Saintess, not there! That is the Tower Masters prized statue! Evanessas condition eventually stabilized after Terry used his healing magic. However, it had already taken a miracle for her to walk over here this morning. She was still here only because she didnt want the notoriety for failing to deal with the wizards towers crisis. are you okay? It would have been too difficult to go from the 1st floor to the 99th floor in any other way. I had to use a magical tool that the Head Wizard charged for us. Chapter 22: “Yes. I was just distracted and missed the timing to close my eyes. Thank you.” Yes. I was just distracted and missed the timing to close my eyes. Thank you. Evanessa wiped her mouth with the hand towel that Terry had offered. They were currently standing in front of an iron gate that was covered with three or fouryers of magical seals. Terry turned towards Evanessaw with a solemn face. Well be counting on you today as well, Saintess. After offering this useless titude, Terry started to remove the seals one-by-one. I should have just fainted back there. Evanessa bit her lip firmly and stared at the iron gate that was covered in seals. She could see a slight glimpse of pitch-ck darkness from the gap between the doors of the gate. It seemed that magic had been used to block the sights and smellsing from inside. Well then, I will be waiting for you here. Best of luck, Saintess. With these parting lines, that were as naive as a young school boy, Terry removed the remaining seal. With a frozen face, Evanessa raised her hand and ced it on the gate. Her vision flickered slightly and then, in the next moment, she found herself on the other side of the gate. A slightly fishy scent pierced her nose. [The side story, The Magic Towers Nightingale, has begun!] Roooooar! From the darkness, the crazed voices of the patients who had caught that erupted; along with the nging of manacles against bars and dull, banging noises, she was drowning in a mad ruckus of noises. After subconsciously turning around, Evanessa gulped. Ill just treat it like Im looking at an illustration. Or else, I really will pass out. Saying that her condition had worsened after what happened earlier might give her a good excuse to worm her way out of this. Aargh! Rooooar! Grrr! As she walked into the darkness, sounds that were closer to that of a beast or a devil rather than a human came flooding into her ears. In the games main storyline, it didnt go into the full story of these people, who were suffering from a condition known as mana overdose. Because of this, she didnt know why exactly the wizards who suffered from mana overdose would go insane. Although the higher ranking wizards of the wizards tower were in the middle of studying the cause of mana overdose, the game stated that their research didnt have anything to do with these patients, as there was nothing new to learn from them. Evanessa squinted her eyes. In the darkness, she saw several people, seemingly wrapped in chains, who glowed with an inner light. What is that? Only As all of the blood vessels in their bodies were strained to their limits and about to burst, the people she saw looked more like bulging mounds of flesh rather than humans. The sight made her recall a scene she had once seen in a movie about an exorcism. They had such a grotesque appearance that she couldnt even make out any of their facial features. In the world of the game, the only one who could treat the condition causing their insanity was the Saintess. Because only the Saintess chosen by Lunium had the ability to absorb the mana from their bodies and return it to nature. In a way, you could call me the Florence Nightingale of wizards. On asion, wizards could find that their mana would suddenly start to overflow and exceed their bodys natural thresholds, thus leading to the affliction of mana overdose. The only way to treat them was to discharge the mana that was expanding their bodies to the bursting point. If the patients afflicted with this mana overdose didnt receive treatment within six months, all of their nerves would be torn to shreds and they would die. To save these wizards, the Wizards Tower had made a deal with the church, in which the Saintess would be invited to visit the top floor of the Wizards Tower once every May and November. Although everyone tried to keep it covered up, there was a good chance that it was already pretty much an open secret. Evanessa slowly drew closer to the nearest patient. Aaaargh! Aaaargh! Aargh! The patient, who appeared to be male, sensed someone approaching and started to be more aggressive. Chapter 23 As she wasnt the real Saintess, she didnt know the right way to absorb their mana. In the dozens of illustrations, she had only seen Evanessa cing her hand on the forehead of the patients who had mana overdose. The man, who had lost all rationality, was gnashing his teeth as he growled up at her. Those who had lost their reason and been driven to madness by the excess mana were left with only the desire to kill. At this point, it felt like she had been transmigrated into a zombie movie rather than a dating sim. If Im going to do this, I should just get it over with. Evanessa avoided the gnashing teeth and rattling chains and quickly grabbed the hair on the back of the mans head. Im sorry. I just think it would be for the best if you couldnt move. Aaaargh! With one fist holding onto the back of the mans head, whose body was still overflowing with light, she ced her free hand on his forehead. Saintess, did you really do this? If it was always like this, this would ssify as an extreme job. Although her fingers were shaking, she followed the example of the illustration and pressed firmly down on his forehead. At that moment, on Evanessas own unmarked forehead, the shape of a ck crescent moon appeared. Then, the glowing mans movements instantly stopped, as if his previous thrashing had all been an act. At the same time, a strange sensation started to flow up from the depths of the mans chest like water from a fountain. It was a very unpleasant sensation. When she felt like she had reached a good stopping point, she took her hand off. The mans appearance, which had looked like a monster or a devil rather than a human, gradually started to return to normal. The man, who had just been trying to tear out Evanessas throat with his teeth, was now sleeping and snoring gently. In the beginning it was difficult, but by the second time around she was able to get the hang of it. Im sorry. I just need to treat all of you. Evanessa would avoid their lunging and halt their movements with a firm grasp of their hair. Then, she would administer the treatment. With this method, she finally treated herst patient and safely finished her job. Hah, Im so exhausted. With a weary expression, Evanessa took a deep breath and turned around to look at all the sleeping people. Their demon-like appearances hadpletely disappeared and they had all returned to their original form. Along with a dawning sense of relief, her legs suddenly lost all of their strength. However, how am I supposed to get rid of all this? She felt like she had been turned into a human water bottle. Inside her body, she could sense that something like a heavy liquid was filling her to the brim. While sitting on the floor, Evanessa slowly breathed in and out. Shouldnt the mana have evaporated back into the environment once I reached my limit? She had been mindlessly absorbing mana while cing her trust in this idea. However, instead of the mana evaporating, her body was beginning to feel heavier and heavier. Still mentallyining, Evanessa lowered her head and rested it on the cold, stone floor. Her forehead was so hot, it felt like it was on fire. This couldnt possibly be an ending where I just die here, could it? Only Her vision had started to blur. The ck, stone floor was fading in and out. Damn it. Thest thing that the cursing Evanessa saw was the hem of an immacte robe drifting closer to her like a ghost. *** The man silently stared down at Evanessa, who had copsed weakly onto the stone floor. Even though he had taken the time toe here because he was curious about how she was handling this situation. Clicking his tongue, the man crouched down in front of Evanessa. Brushing aside the hair covering her forehead, he saw the emblem of Lunium on clear disy. As the mans delicate finger came to rest on the emblem, the mana that was burdening Evanessa started to slowly dissipate into the air. This was only possible for a saintess marked by Lunium. For those without a particr marking, no matter how closely their magic resembled that, this was something that they couldnt ever hope toy their hands on. Chapter 24: “This was quite unexpected.” This was quite unexpected. Should she be called brave, or ignorant? The emblem that had appeared on Evnaessas forehead gradually started to dim. As the man lowered his head, white, snow-like hair brushed against Evanessas cheeks. Eyes that were red like blood stared nkly at Evanessas face, which was now showing a much morefortable expression. If you keep exhausting yourself like this, just what will you do from now on, Saintess Evanessa? After muttering this unheard question, the man raised his head as he sensed that someone was about to enter the room. Although he would be able to stop them in their tracks with just one hand, some tiresome matters would surely follow if he did so. After taking another look at Evanessa, who was still fast asleep, the man melted into the darkness and disappeared. Uwah! Saintess! A momentter, the sound of Terrys scream echoed throughout the top floor of the wizards tower as he discovered that the Saintess had fainted. Evanessa, who had fainted, came to her senses thanks to Terrys loud scream. Her body, which had felt as heavy as waterlogged cotton, now suddenly felt light. What? Why is my body suddenly feeling so light? Evanessa recalled that she had seen a ghost-like figure before she lost consciousness. She looked nkly at Terry who was making a fuss and murmured, The smell of lemon. What? You want to eat some lemons? I think that its you, Terry, who ate some lemons. The strong smell of blood mixed with the fresh lemon scent that had apanied Terrys arrival. At this point, Evanessa was starting to think lemons were popr all over the empire. By the way, Terry, does the tower have any ghosts? There is a ghost-like person. Ghost-like person? Yes. Our Head Wizard!, responded Terry cheerfully while he helped Evanessa get up. As they walked out of the iron gate, other wizards, who were waiting outside, bowed their heads and disappeared inside. They were going to retrieve the patients she had just treated. Is there no way to go down normally, without using magical travel? Saintess, with your stamina, I think it would take you at least two nights to make it all the way down. then lets take a break before we go. Evanessa was in a state of exhaustion simr to a person who had barely escaped drowning. But, she didnt want to stay in this sh**hole of a Wizards Tower for any longer. Even if it was unlikely that the nocturnal Head Wizard woulde to the top floor of the tower. In the original game, Evanessa first encounters the crazy Head Wizard on the day she visits the Wizards Tower. From then on, there was a high possibility of progressing down the Head Wizards route, so it was imperative to avoid this first meeting at all costs. Evanessa had even faked illness in front of the Emperor to avoid the date of which they would meet. Thus The Nightingale of the Magic Tower, which should have been treated as a main story, had been downgraded to a side story. Just like when I yed the game, the direction of the story changes depending on the choices I make. I should n my future steps more carefully from now on. Only Thanks to this, Evanessa didnt catch even a glimpse of the head wizards shadow, as she left the tower with a farewell from Terry. The attending maids and servants were stunned to see Evanessa approaching them while staggering like a zombie. Saintess? Are you okay? Im sorry, but I dont think I can walk any further. Every time she took a step, her legs shook. One of the servants urgently rushed off somewhere. After a while, Evanessa was loaded into a carriage and taken to the guest room. The Emperor also personally sent over a doctor, when he heard that Evanessa had returned from the tower in a poor state. The doctor was the member of the Wizards Tower who had diagnosed Evanessa on her first day at the pce. Its just muscle strain, Saintess. Have you thought of taking the opportunity to exercise and increase your stamina? After hearing the doctors cold diagnosis, Evanessa nodded helplessly, rolled up in her nket. This was all because Evanessas stamina level was currently a three out of ten. Chapter 25 Eventually the festival outing with Lady Sagrina, which was scheduled for the next day, had to be dyed to a few dayster. Thedy sent her a get-well-soon card. On the second day of her bedrest, someone visited her in person. Saintess Evanessa. It was Daniel, who Evanessa hadnt seen since the weing ceremony. Evanessa, who had barely managed to crawl to the parlor, smiled weakly. I didnt expect you to visit. Evanessa was having a hard time because of her muscle strain, and her voice came out hoarse. Daniel shook his head with a serious expression. It looks like Ive disturbed you when you should still be resting. Even if this were my deathbed, I would be d to see you Daniel.. Just seeing you here gives me strength. It felt like she was seeing her one way ticket home. Seeing Evanessa seriously confess her feelings, Daniel bit his lips and turned his head. Saintess, even in this condition, you are still in a good mood. I should follow your example. .Which part? I heard that you and Lady Sagrina will be going out in three days. Daniel avoided the question. I will be in charge of escorting you two on that day. Ah, is thatso? Evanessa didnt know what to expect; as in the games original storyline, she would never go out with thedy. She didnt think that Daniel, the busymander of the knights, would be their escort as a result of her choice. Of course. This has to be the power of the heroine? As she had chosen to go out with Beatrice, Daniel would apany them like an awkward third wheel. Evanessa had a bad feeling that other dangerous people would also follow along, but she tried to ignore it. Then, I will see you on that day. Thank you for visiting me today. Evanessa waved as she saw Daniel off. Daniel had a strange look on his face once again. By now, Evanessa felt like she could get a rough idea of what the expression meant. Youre holding back yourughter, arent you? Evanessa stored the fact that Daniel was the type tough pointlessly in her mind, as she went back to her bedroom. She felt awfully drowsy as soon as she swallowed the medicine prescribed by the Doctor along with some porridge. That night, a silent guest arrived at Evanessas bedside while she was asleep under the influence of the medicine. White clothing swept across the moonlit floor. Long, white hair, like snow, draped over the bedsheets. The man tilted his head after he lifted the canopy and ced his hand on Evanessas forehead. Her recovery is slow. It had already been a long time since her body, which had been full of mana, had purged itself of everything except what it needed for survival. The Saintess, who he had thought was raised as the templesst resort firepower, had actually fallen so weak. Someone with the ability to freely absorb mana, the basis of all magic, sounded like they would be the equivalent of a human bomb. All one would have to do was infuse all that mana into a pre-drawn magic circle. As such, she had the potential to be the worst weapon in human history. However, the current Saintess did not seem to know how to properly use mana. Hmmm. The man tapped his lips with his index finger. There was one reason that he could guess for this. If his hypothesis was true, it seemed that this could be an excellent case study for his ongoing research. The mans lips pulled up in the corners as he looked down at the sleeping saintess. Only Im looking forward to the future. *** The illness contracted at the Magic Tower miraculously disappeared the day before her meeting Lady Sagrina. Feeling good for the first time in a while, Evanessa dismissed her maids and took a stroll in the garden of the vi. I thought I was going to die. At this point, Evanessa thought that she should really make a physical fitness schedule to follow. Theres no such thing as Ptes here, right? Even if there was, with Evanessas flexibility, it was impossible for her. What kind of exercise do people in this world do? Chapter 26 As Evanessa walked through the garden while thinking about this, she remembered one of the things from a few days ago that had remained unresolved. Back in the Pce Library, she had been swept away by the Prime Minister with the summons from the Emperor, so she hadnt even been able toy eyes on the history section. Evanessa decided on an impromptu scheduled for this afternoon. For lunch, she ate soft porridge with top quality beef and then left the vi. This time, a young maid in her mid-teens, who had helped with the makeover for the wee ceremony, served as Evanessas guide. Its a lovely day. I hope its this nice tomorrow. It always rains when you say that, Saintess. Would it be better if I took it back? Yes. There is a famous saying that words be seeds. Was it because the game was made by a Korean developer?, wondered Evanessa, as she felt it was good to hear a familiar proverb despite the world being set in medieval Europe. Evanessa, with a slight smile, looked at the babbling, young maid out of the corner of her eye. At first, the maid had appeared to be heavily burdened by the responsibility of attending to the saintess, but now her face had lightened considerably. What is your name? Please feel free to call me Lina. Well then, Lina. Call me Evanessa as well, not Saintess. Unni is fine too. Evanessa hated being called Saintess as it made her feel like a nun. Linas eyes widened at Evanessas unconventional proposal. Oh! Are you serious, Saintess? Yes. As long as you arent too ufortable with it, I dont mind. I would love that. Eve-unni. I didnt allow nicknames though. Lina, a lively teenager, introduced herself as the second daughter of Baron Seymound. Unless they serve the Imperial Family, most of the pces maids are mainly selected from the eldest or second-eldest daughters of viscounts or barons. Unlike themon servants working in aristocratic households, only men and women from families of barons or higher statuses were allowed to serve in the Imperial Pce. The only reason Evanessa had remembered this basic system was that she herself was the second daughter of a viscount. Although I was handed over to the temple as I was born with the emblem of Lunium on my forehead. In return, Viscount Halyn took over a mine that the temple had secretly owned in an under-the-table transaction. When should I return to escort you?, asked Lina, at the entrance of the library; as she had already noticed that Evanessa was bad with directions. I guess it would be impossible for me to go alone, wouldnt it? Yes. Then, I will see you here in two hours!, shouted Lina cheerfully as she disappeared, running back towards the vi. Evanessa watched with exasperated eyes as Lina faded away into the distance, before entering the library. Theforting smell of wood tickled her nose. Is there a book youre looking for? Fortunately, this time, the librarian was sitting at the desk. He was a man who seemed to be in his mid-thirties. I would like to find a book on the history of the Empire. The one with the highest check-out rate. Only The librarian, who was wearing thick sses, stood up. Evanessa followed as he walked away through the tall bookshelves. The history and culture section was located on the second floor of the library. Fortunately, Evanessa didnt encounter any of the royal family, who she found difficult to deal with. Evanessa smiled in satisfaction as she received several thick books chosen for her by the librarian. However, while approaching a wooden desk in search of a seat that was shaded from the sunshine, Evanessas face hardened in fear. She tried to quickly getaway, but she was a step toote. Whilst, sitting in the shade and indulging in reading, the other person raised his head. Curly ck hair hung disheveled over the bridge of his nose. This is quite a coincidence. I cant believe weve run into each other twice already. There sat the Suspicious Extra, a person on the same cklist as the Head Wizard. *** Prince Yurisian had been unable to properly concentrate on the work in his office for several days. This was because Evanessa had suddenly changed the n that had been in the works for several years. Chapter 27: Daniel, who had come to give a report to Yurisian, tilted his head. Daniel, who hade to give a report to Yurisian, tilted his head. Do you have any concerns? you sound just like Beatrice. Daniels eyes shook slightly at the mention of Beatrices name. Not noticing Daniels agitation, Yurisian narrowed his eyes as he looked out through the window. I heard that you recently escorted Evanessa Halyn, quite closely. It was an order. Daniel, who becamemander of the knights order this year, knew very well that the crown prince and his forces were keeping tabs on the temple. Daniels own family had maintained a neutral stance in the political arena for a long time. The prince stared at Daniel with a serious expression. How did she seem? How did she seem? Was there anything strange or suspicious? In Daniels mind, strange urrences had been happening from the moment he first met Evanessa. Certainly, from beginning to end, there was never a moment that wasnt funny. Daniel hadnt realized that his mouth had formed a smile. The crown princes eyes flinched when he saw it. Contrary to the rumors, its more .shes a pleasant person. Dont show her any affection. Shes one of the rotten roots that needs to be cut. Daniels smile disappeared from his lips. The Crown Prince made a gesture of dismissal. Just then, the head butler, who had arrived under the need order of the Emperor, knocked on the door. Your Highness, the Crown Prince. What is it? Daniels excellent hearing was able to catch the whispered voice. Your Majesty has asked you to extend an invitation to escort the Saintess to tonights dinner. The fountain pen Yurisian was holding snapped in half. Why do we keep bumping into each other? pondered Evanessa, while taking a seat some distance away from the Prime Minister. It might just be her imagination, but it felt like she was having more contact with him than the men who were supposed to be her capture targets. If you avoid me so tantly, youll hurt my feelings. Leaning back leisurely in his chair, the Prime Minister broke the silence first. The sound of turning pages left the room, leaving its two upants in silence. That is your own misunderstanding. The only meaning behind the choice of my current seat is that I wanted to respect your personal space. A smirk appeared on the Prime Ministers lips at Evanessas passionate exnation. He cocked his head to the side. He seemed to be looking at the cover of the thick book that Evanessa was nning to read. I cant tell for sure as his long hair makes it impossible to see his eyes. As Evanessained to herself, she opened the book to its first page. She nned on checking the rough outline of the book, before borrowing it and returning to her vi. [The History of the Empire at A nce] would be a better choice than the book you have now. Evanessa looked up at the prime minister as he started to leaf through his book. She recalled her experiences from when she yed as the princess. The ce where you would most often encounter this nameless and suspicious extra was the Pce Library. Could reading be your hobby? Only Something like that. In any case, it looked like this countrys prime minister had so much free time that he could afford to indulge in his hobbies, even in the middle of the day. Although he should have the same amount of duties as the Prime Ministers office of South Korea. Is itcking in realism because were in a game, or could he just be a sry thief? At that moment, the prime minister, who wasnt even looking in Evanessas direction, gave a slight smile. My subordinates tend to feel like they suffer a lot because theyve picked the wrong boss. could it be that you know how to read minds? Have you ever considered that your expressions are just too transparent? Evanessa shut her mouth and rose from her seat. Whatever you might say about him, she acknowledged it would be a more efficient use of her time if she read the book that the empires young and capable(?) Prime Minister had rmended. Chapter 28 However, Evanessa soon proved that her characteristk of direction was at work even in the middle of a library. Over twenty minutes after she had left the reading table, she was still unable to find the History and Culture section. I dont think that I was this bad in real life Just as she was plunging into a pit of self-consciousness, her life-saver appeared. Its this one. The low sound of his voice, apanied by a cool, lemon scent, washed over her. It was a smell that she had already encountered three times so far. Could the scent of lemons be popr among the men here? Her savior, who was apparently kinder than he appeared, had personally gone out of his way and found the book that he had rmended, in order to hand it to her. Evanessa received the book with a puzzled expression. Thank you very much. It looks like your body is feeling better. The rumour that the Saintess had left the tower in a zombie-like state had already spread throughout the pce. Evanessa nodded her head. I am fine, for now. Even if its just to make it easier for you to live, how about increasing your stamina. The nuances of the Prime Ministers words were strange. It was as if he knew the real reason for Evanessas copse. Well, he is the Prime Minister after all, it wouldnt be strange if he knew the real reason for why I fainted. The cover for Evanessas visit to the Wizards Tower, was that she was there to cheer up the wizards. However, those in the know knew the real truth. That she was there to treat the patients who had caught mana overdose and were quarantined on the top floor of the Wizards Tower. I actually wanted to ask you something about this. ..? What type of exercise is trending around here? She couldnt be sure as the top half of his face was covered by the birds nest of his hair, but Evanessa felt that he was looking at her with a very strange expression. Among the aristocracy, horse riding usually holds the greatest poprity. And among themoners? As someone who was solely familiar with public transportation, Evanessa didnt know how to ride a horse. The Prime Minister leaned back against a pir near the bookshelves. Tapping a finger against his jaw; by all appearances, he looked to be in serious consideration. It seems like the swordsmanship tournament thats held at every Luniums Day Festival usually boasts high levels of poprity. arent there any simple exercises that can be done with just your body? No weapons. Well, let me see. I dislike being active, so Im not really sure. The Prime Minister didnt look like someone who would usually share their opinion of disliking exercise, what with his broad shoulders and solid build. Could he have just been born with it? Of course, Evanessa also possessed a lovely figure without an ounce of fat. But apart from her beauty, her stamina was so weak that it was practically nonexistent. As it was, before she could even seed in capturing one of the male leads, it was more likely that she would see the sudden death ending. If she wanted to try and raise her stats with Affection points, she would first need to gather at least ten points. Evanessa sighed unconsciously. In any case, for rmending this book and sharing your concerns with me, thank you for everything. Saintess Evanessa. Only Evanessa, who was turning to leave, looked back at the Prime Minister with a quizzical expression. The sunlight glided over his sharp nose and mouth that were visible beneath his unkempt hair. I heard that you were nning to go out tomorrow. Yes. Along with Lady Sagrina. Make sure to avoid dark ces. okay? Evanessa blinked at that sudden warning. However, the Prime Minister didnt offer a more detailed exnation, instead he left abruptly, leaving without a trace. Evanessa, who was left all to her lonesome amongst the bookshelves, clutched the book that the Prime Minister had chosen for her to her chest. No matter how you look at it, hes not just a simple extra. The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!