“S-s-sorry!”

“No, no, it’s my fault for walking so fast!”

The person bowing repeatedly in apology was a sister wearing a nun’s habit.

Her outfit was a flowing blue garment with white cloth, similar to an apron, sewn into it.

The fabric was trimmed with gold, and it looked soft and luxurious at a glance.

She was probably a guest staying at this hotel, just like Katya.

“No, really, I—”

“No, no, it’s me—”

“No, no, no, it’s my fault…”

“No, no, no, no, it’s mine…”

We bowed back and forth, each insisting the blame was their own.

After apologizing more than five times, I realized just how pointless this back-and-forth was.

When I finally raised my head, my eyes met the sister’s.

From her expression, it was clear she had come to the same conclusion as I had.

“…”

“…”

We locked eyes in silence, staring at each other.

Now that my attention wasn’t entirely drawn to her outfit, I noticed just how strikingly beautiful her features were.

And not just her face—her figure was incredible too.

The phrase “hourglass figure” came to mind.

To avoid being rude, I fixed my gaze on her doll-like face.

“Pfft… Haha!”

We both burst into laughter at the same time.

Apologizing endlessly like this was utterly ridiculous.

Ah, it was so silly.

“I’m sorry for bumping into you. I actually got lost and was hurrying, thinking I’d recognize my room from outside.”

“I remembered something urgent I had to do and was rushing back to my room when I accidentally bumped into you. My apologies.”

“Well, I guess we can call it even, then.”

“Yes, hehe…”

She covered her mouth with her hand and laughed gracefully, with a touch of charm.

Her poise and demeanor suggested she was someone of importance.

She was a different kind of lady compared to Katya.

…No, maybe Katya is just too peculiar, and this sister represents what’s normal.

“My name is Bruno.”

“Oh my, so you are…”

“…Wait, do you know me?”

“Yes, of course. Your reputation precedes you.”

I thought about asking for her name.

But if she was someone important, maybe it was better for my peace of mind not to know.

As I mulled it over—

Killing intent!

I immediately deployed a barrier around us.

Giin!

I made it in time. The weapon that struck was—a long, pointed… needle?

I’d never seen a weapon like this before. Was it a type of concealed weapon?

“You vile cur, how dare you offend Saintess Volakia!”

“Wha—!?”

This girl was… the Saintess Volakia? The one who could oppose the pope in Célie!?

W-what should I do?

The guard was absolutely furious—probably because I bumped into her.

If I apologize with all my heart, will they forgive me…?