Chapter 225: Rinella’s Destiny is Her Own (18)

The initial meeting always carried a palpable awkwardness, casting a shadow over the group’s atmosphere.

Particularly, the Saintess, Senior Elsie, and Seria struggled to adapt themselves to Percus Manor, their expressions subtly tense.

In contrast, Ian, Leto, and Celine were the only ones with calm expressions.

It was unsurprising for Ian, who was returning to his family home after a long time, and Leto and Celine, who were intimately familiar with the surroundings from childhood.

It would have been stranger if they had been uncomfortable.

Seeing Ria refrain from immediate criticism, contrary to Ian’s concerns, brightened him up even more.

After exchanging brief greetings, Ria led the group forward, her tone polite.

“Fortunately, there are some rooms available in the manor, and I sincerely hope you would consider staying here. Of course, it may not compare to where the esteemed guests have been staying, but…”

“It’s okay, Sister.”

The Saintess, as always, spoke with her customary benevolent voice.

Ria’s golden gaze briefly flickered toward the Saintess.

“I have also assisted Brother Ian and stayed at an orphanage. Originally, I did not come from such a noble family. So, there is no need to worry too much.”

Hearing that, Ria responded with a slight smile.

“…I see.”

Observing Ria’s reaction, the Saintess smiled contentedly, subtly casting a glance at Ian, as if trying to brag about her social skills.

Ian erupted into laughter, as though saying, ‘She wouldn’t be my sister if it ended just like this.’

“However, there is one concern that weighs on my mind. Ideally, as a Saintess, you should stay in the temple… However, I was afraid the old temple might be uncomfortable. Perhaps the Percus family was overly ambitious.”

“…W-What?”

Ria’s smoothly delivered words caught the Saintess off guard.

The Saintess, not one to overlook underlying intentions, was someone who had honed her instincts through a life entangled in political intricacies and constant diplomatic maneuvering.