Miss Appraiser And Satan's Gallery
Chapter One Season 2: The Unsatisfied Corridor

The event can be traced back to a few days ago.

The location is the art gallery of the Houro district, which is located in the southern part of the royal capital city of Sprarugle.

Today Riz also gazes eagerly into a painting book, living inside a warehouse filled with art panels, painting materials, and reference books. He lay down on the recliner with a thin blanket covering his knees.

Riz is now the owner of this art gallery, although only briefly until his uncle Hine, who left for overseas, returns. He could immerse himself in the art world as he pleased.

He enjoyed his excitement when the doors of the art studio opened from the corridor.

A man in tight clothes, like a butler, came in and immediately approached Riz.

Madam, the letter has arrived.

He announced this and gave two letters.

Riz closed his painting book and sat down on the recliner. As he received the letter, he looked at the man.

His name is John Smith.

His appearance was like a smart and handsome young man in his early twenties. He was wearing a long jacket, vest, and tie that were all black; however, his shirt was cream-gloss.

A total of three pocket hours hung on the buttons of his jacket and vest. The making is the same, but the difference is seen in the designs carved on the petals: wild beasts, birds, and flowers. There is also a slight difference in the color of the chain.

One of them came from the Royal Fine Arts Agency.

"From Fine Art Agents?"

Indeed, sealing wax uses the emblem of the Fine Arts Body. However, the signature belonged to the Seventh Church.

Riz frowned slightly.

This is not the first letter of the Seventh Church. During this month, some arrived.

“I'm sure one has arrived last week as well. What'sthat's it? ”

John asked this and turned his observant gaze to Riz.

"Nothing serious. It was a common invitation for me to visit church more often. ”

Riz answered with something made up.

It's actually different. He had no idea what they were thinking, but the Seventh Church wrote a list of very colorful words that demanded him to give up ownership of the art gallery. If he refused this transfer then they asked whether he would bind an exclusive contract with the Seventh Church or welcome the bishop as an advisor.

The problem is injuring his head. It is understandable if the church requires them to build recommended artists in their art galleries, but the content is quite compelling. The fact that this was delivered by trade associations without messengers was also under-considered. It was not a letter that would be sent to the daughter of an influential noble.

No, it was probably because he was a noble with power so this ended with just a recommendation by letter.

If that's the case, isn't this a relatively serious situation?

It seems that it is best to consult Virma early, but the fact that it was addressed personally to Riz remains suspicious no matter how one looks at it. There was also how they tried to suppress him by deliberately borrowing the Fine Arts Body emblem. Next, it was sent to an art gallery and not to the mansion.

While thinking, John leaned his waist lightly against the armrest where Riz had just laid down earlier and let out a lethargic sigh. Her eyes were fixed on the letter in Riz's hands.

Riz was secretly confused at an unexpected close distance.

But, since his expression was more limited than that of an ordinary person, it seemed like he was unaware of it.

“Church, hm... Would if the glorious 'Maiden of Stars' were present in earnest then the believer would increase? Come to think of it, the servants in the mansion gossiped with dreamy expressions about how my women looked like saints depicted in religious paintings when you were wearing a veil. "

Maybe John believed in Riz's lies because he made that comment.

He has mixed feelings. Riz, who inherits the beauty of his mother, Virma, has been referred to as the "Maiden of Stars" since he was a child.

Shiny silver hair and pale skin like snow. His eyes were sparkling like black gems.

However, unfortunately, his expression was dead.

“You seem to be falling asleep while acting as if you are praying with your eyes closed.”

"I don't hate the church ... There are many religious paintings and they are quiet and dim."

If only dawn should not come because it hates the morning sun. He wanted to stay more in the damp shade.

If possible, he wanted to stay cooped up in an art gallery all his life and stare at paintings.

Riz is a lazy young girl without exaggerating. Besides, she's introverted and sickly. People who know Riz's personality lament how beautiful she is but it is a wasted treasure. Riz himself thought the same from the bottom of his heart as well.

“Their purpose is a bit impure, but.. does my lady comply with the request of the church and, now, has often attended Madam?”

John turned his gaze from the letter to Riz's face. In his eyes was a shocking and seductive light.

Riz liked his calm voice and the languid atmosphere, which was more suited to the moonlight than the sunlight that pierced through the trees. It made her comfortable to be by his side.

However

“But the pastor's thoughts were slow and disturbing. If they intend to persuade believers with beautiful women then I think it would be more efficient to build a brothel around the church. Even without inviting them on purpose, excited people would come to them. "

He was terrible at talking.

“Instead, how about providing naked women and ******men in the church waiting room? If I were a pastor, I would choose that method. "

How did he train this demon?

“If you want to know the love of God then first love your neighbor, just say it like that and get the believers to bed. Believers and God will be satisfied and these are two birds with one stone. "

He said outrageous things with a face that did not waver. Riz put a finger on his forehead.

“John. Humans have more complicated feelings. "

“Ah, you mean show that desire is vulgar? I don't understand. Instead, I believe it is more cowardly and basic to keep up appearances of self with insincere words and by airing. "

John says this with boredom.

He is merciless. In the eyes of demons, it seemed like human pride was nothing more than a trick.

Riz himself is one of those humans who are covered in lies. Emotions similar to shame spread throughout his body like smoke.

He closed his own heart for now and returned to the course of the conversation.

“There are other reasons why my number of churchgoers is increasing. My mother was worried that I had a heart injury. "

“Injury in the liver? Why worry? "

My fiancee, Sir Emil, 'suddenly died' last month. ”

To date, Riz has a fiancee. However, because the person, Emil Carotion, died, his engagement was naturally annulled. Riz's marriage itself became an issue that was not right.

“Seeing I spent more time in the art gallery than ever before, my mother seemed to misunderstand that I was very depressed. He even suspected I might kill myself to follow him. "

"Kill yourself."

"Yes. So he said we would go to the Lord's house and calm my heart. "

"I saw."

“Sir Emil is actually still alive — does not mean I can tell this truth.”

Riz immediately thought as he subconsciously stroked the tip of the letter with his finger.

She was grateful for her mother's concern but she also had a guilty conscience. Emil eloped with his servant, Loretta.

She must have stayed quietly with him in the peaceful land.

After that Carotion's house replaced his family's head and sold their rural land to pay their debts; it seemed like there was a commotion for a while, but by now everything was quiet. Even though the new head was young in his thirties, he was a sincere and serious person. The declining Carotion family will start to rise again.

Milton's house was also meant to help them.

"If my lady is telling the truth that we've worked together to fake her death, then the Madam will most likely faint."

John showed a smile that hid the scheme.

“I wonder if the level of shock will be stronger if I tell him that my true identity is a demon? How about we test it? "

"Stop."

"What should I do?"

“John, you have a bad expression.”

“Because I am a demon. We were so bad, you know? "

“... Your appearance is not too evil.”

“More and more reasons for me to be evil, don't you think so?”

He seems interested in that. Smiling, she imitated the growl of the beast and gently held a pinch of Riz's hair between her fingers. To be honest, does he have the traits of a dog?

"For example, this terrible demon seduced an adorable and beautiful young woman and pulled her into an art gallery every day."

Whether it was intentional or not, for some reason or another, she showed her sweet, dark eyes. Riz was secretly distressed by that indistinct look.

Your words are indecent.

"That's the truth."

"I came to the art gallery of my own accord."

"It depends how you look at it."

Since he was holding back a laugh, his voice trembled slightly.

At some level, it was an ordinary conversation as they were frank with each other but, somehow, he felt like he was playing with her. It would undoubtedly be better mentally for him to consider it just playing around with a pet dog.

He did not try to take off Riz's hair. He enjoys the sensation.

Leaving him to do as he pleased, he checked the second letter.

Who is this from?

From the dead.

Riz stopped his movement because of John's reply. Dead men. There was only one person that came to mind.

“Could Sir Emil?”

“He should have died in the wild. Really a tenacious guy. "

It seems John dislikes Sir Emil and he says it sarcastically.

Riz opened the letter. Pseudonyms are used taking into account the possibility that these can be read by others. Lime Knoll's. The chalk is the letter Emil which reads upside down and the small hill is the hill.

Thinking about it, he could understand this.

The last place Riz and John met with Emil was at “Dawn's Hill”. He was sure it was taken from there.

It was not a letter that spoke much. “Although we are confused in this unusual life, we are both fine and we are very grateful to you both”.

“Mistress, why are you smiling?”

He lifted his gaze from the letter and looked at John.

"Because even though they write about their foreign lives, I can feel the air of happiness."

To be honest, when he saw the two of them leave, there was a cold thought in his mind that one day the presence of the two of them alone would not be enough. It was a situation where their values were different, social status would be displayed in unconscious actions, they would be impoverished, and no one could be relied upon. Worry will cause destruction and, in the end, will produce a black fruit called regret.

Riz could easily imagine the future of two people who disagreed with each other.

However, after reading this letter, he felt relieved. Love protects both hearts.

Ever since he was born a noble, the lesson that he had to fulfill his aristocratic duties was taught to him from a young age. He's not rich for no reason. Marriage is not to preserve love but to connect blood. If he could not complete his task of becoming an heir then he could not gain freedom.

But sometimes exceptions may be good.

Especially in this case, Riz was convinced. Although Emil and Loretta did it for the sake of love, and there was no other method, they troubled many people. Some people change their way of life, the head of the family changes too, and friends are with both of them as well. Even those who worked in the mansion changed.

Riz, who was involved in the middle, also had a responsibility. That's why he wants them to be happier.

“... Until now, I have seen many humans and I have seen their desires as they are.”

John looked at the shelf, where the art supplies were crammed, and calmly spoke.

“But, in rare cases, there are people who choose love from the bottom of their heart. Surviving love itself may be the only desire of those people. "

“Love is desire?”

"Nothing is as selfish and as strong as love, is it?"

Does the devil want love? He had such questions, but for some reason he could not ask.

He just looked at John's profile in a daze. The amused expression earlier had disappeared.

What Riz said was beautiful were the faces filled with life like his older sister, Grace. People who have a lot of emotions and no burden. On that basis, John is the antithesis of it. Basically, he was apathetic and he rarely raised his voice to laugh.

However, the feeling of wanting to stare at him forever suddenly surfaced. At the same time, there was a pressure that made his heart creak from stress. No, maybe it's more like a pricked or damp feeling.

When Riz pressed his hand against his chest, John's gaze returned to him. The black iron eyes were blurred with a melancholic color.

“Are you not healthy?”

"No, it's not that."

“But you have a sad expression. Don't lie to me."

He scolded Riz with an annoyed voice and put a hand on his forehead.

“You don't seem to have a fever.”

The hand slid gently onto her cheek.

He considered her an overprotective demon. From time to time, perhaps because she found it annoying to keep up appearances, her words would become messy, but she would never be ugly in terms of her grooming. Far from it, he took care of her with pleasure. Lately, she even brushed her hair and she seemed to be interested in pharmacology.

He had a kind and deft mind, but even someone as talented as him had things he lacked.

Although he was blessed with his ability as an excellent appraiser and restorer of paintings, he could not paint original paintings.

Riz glanced at the horses beside the central worktable.

Placed there a strange image that is difficult to distinguish as something like an abstract painting, but it is not. It seemed like he had drawn a beast, but.. Looking at the white fur growing, he wondered if he was drawing a snow leopard or something? Or is it a hedgehog?

As he stared at the picture with doubtful eyes, he was noticed by John.

He shows an unusual confused face and then quickly stands up, leaving Riz to approach the horses. He banged the cloth on the horses violently to cover it up and hide the image. It seemed like she was aware of her poor image until it was depressed.

As he smiled, his expression became severe. He could see a hint of shame in those reprimanding eyes.

Surprisingly, he had a sweet side. An amused feeling came to him after knowing that.

“Mistress, do you not have to get ready to immediately return to the mansion?”

John spoke coldly to ignore the second embarrassment in sight.

Riz's delight suddenly withered and he furrowed his brows.

It was planned for him to go to church with Virma in the afternoon. He can't refuse.

“However, earlier.”

John straightened his back and made a serious expression like a butler. Riz was also interested in it and sat up straight.

"What?"

“It's time to take your medicine.”

His demons were very meticulous about time, Riz murmured in his heart.

Riz returns to the mansion with John and, after joining Virma, they rush to the church by train.

The place that Riz and the others visited was the Seventh Church, which was built in the main district of the royal capital, Sprarugle.

The capital, which occupies the northeastern part of the Quito Ezira Empire, is a collection of seven parishes to be exact. Each district is so independent that it holds its own jurisdiction. The great churches are called the "Seven Pillars" and they are equal in number to the number of districts.

The Seventh Church, which can hold courts even among others, has an important position and has a close relationship with the Royal Fine Arts Agency. There were several art studios set up in his grounds and craftsmen polishing their techniques and sensibilities day and night. It is said that the nobles living in the capital did not speak politics in the waiting room that was misty with cigar smoke, but in the dugout inside the church.

Riz looked around this break room with a complicated mind. Since Virma tightly fused their hands together, she could not even escape to run away. From an outsider's point of view, they may look like a close mother and child.

“Wake yourself, Riz. However, be careful not to forget the elegance! ”

That is to say that even though the liver is a carnivore, its face must be herbivorous, right, mother? ”

Don't comment.

The pressure of Virma's smile is incredible.

Riz immediately shifted his eyes. He had explained to John that he had started going to and from church to calm his heart, but there were other reasons as well. It was to find a good man.

He believes Virma at first also proposed to the church with a pure feeling of wanting to console Riz's heart. However, his mother's expression slowly began to change.

He finally looked at the man who was visiting the church with the eyes of an eagle who was hunting prey.

Those with power gathered at the — church in other words, influential single nobles will appear on a rotating basis.

Mother's strong. It seems to cross her mind that maybe Riz's marriage partner can be found.

So, after cleansing their hearts with hymns and offering prayers gracefully, they moved to a resting room like this. Coincidentally, John was not in the church at the moment and was waiting beside the carriage.

“It seems there is an amazing man here today also.”

The sparkle in Virma's eyes increased.

“Mother, I was really wondering about 'looking for a man' in the holy church. For moral reasons. "

Riz said it in a soft voice.

The scary thing was that he could see mothers and daughters here and there with hidden ambitions similar to theirs.

“What scares you, Riz? The church is a place that teaches love. There's no better place than this to find your future husband. "

Virma replied in the same calm voice as she looked around the break room with a big smile.

I don't want to teach such calculating love, God seems to roll their eyes.

"Listen. Love is not something you can gain by waiting. You must seize it without hesitation and shoot it! "

Virma whispered those hot words, showing an expression like a saint.

“Think of this place as a hunting ground. Understand?"

"Hunting grounds…"

“Now, concentrate. Prey is everywhere. "

There is no doubt that if God could hear this, they would cover their faces with both hands.

“However, you must not show the unartist attitude to the men like 'Oh, what should I do, my heart seems to have been stolen by you'. You must satisfy a man's desire to control well. That is what it means to be a woman among women. "

"Mother, I think God will cry soon."

“However, finding the right person to nurture love is the first. You should choose the more promising and attractive ones. ”

He's not listening.

“I know you're still hurt by a broken bond with Sir Emil, but a living— can't stay in grief forever. You should be happy for him too! I'm sure he expects your happiness too. "

No, Sir Emil is not dead yet, but Riz refrains from revealing the truth.

“Look, what about the guy next to the window in the back?… No, a man wearing ancient clothing is impossible. If the taste of the husband is not good then it will be troublesome for the wife. ”

Virma bluntly threw a scathing criticism.

“Then the man sitting on the sofa over there. He has the traits of romance; that is the face of someone who will someday have many lovers. "

He seems to have become a prophet.

“Gentlemen in front of the round table on the other side of the room.. Geez, isn't he okay? It seems like his age is not too far away and I'm sure he's a bit handsome. "

Riz sent a suspicious look towards Virma, who was being excited. She wanted to tell all the men and women who were fascinated with her mother and who said, "Madam Milton's house looks beautiful today as well", about her evaluation.

Riz could feel a sense of tiredness that came to him while accompanying Virma who began to actively exchange greetings with people. Lately there are continuous days of him in good health, but still it will be a burden for him to walk around for hours.

However, she hesitates to tell Virma, who has seen a close friend, that she wants to return home.

It was not that he was tired to the point of worsening his health. He would be fine if he rested for a while.

Riz looks for an opportunity and then quietly leaves his mother while continuing to have fun conversations with his friends.

He's glimpsed by Virma. When she gestured with her eyes that she was going to rest near the wall, her mother nodded with a worried expression.

She is a troublesome mother, but also a darling.

Riz thought of many things as he walked to the edge of the dugout.

That they are looking for a good man every day shows that Virma is very worried about Riz's future.

Before “the sudden death of” Emil, his mother often went to church to pray fervently so that her sickly daughter could live a healthy life even one day longer. Knowing this makes Riz unable to leave his family and ignore his social status and position.

Stopping in front of the wall, he stared into the break room again.

Despite being inside the church, there was a beautiful atmosphere like a hovering salon.

This resting room was special for nobles and the rich, and ordinary people were forbidden to enter.

The fact that such discriminatory spaces are created within the holy church is a contradiction in itself, but if one reads the Bible then they will know that the love of God also has a great bias.

For example, only those who do not lack love and faith in God will be allowed to go to the land of miracles and promise eternal luck and peace. Instead, painful trials await heretics and people of different races. Not a single word was written about how everyone would be saved equally.

A good man, yes. Riz muttered this slowly.

Is there a real man who would love a somber girl who does not have the kind of hospitality she does without self-interest?

Moreover, he did not even know if he could leave an heir or not and was only interested in painting.

Thinking such dark thoughts, John's figure suddenly flashed through his mind.

He thought of his usual position beside his lazy chair as he lay on it in the art studio. When there is no effort, he will guide Riz's reading in this and that which relates to painting. Later, he would cover it with a blanket with familiar movements. When she was in a good mood, she would even comb her hair. He'll even feel a little like he's getting something—

Riz hastily erased his form from his mind.

For some reason, recently, he remembered her whenever he saw the painting, he remembered her when he saw a man of his age, he remembered her when he saw his own hair ... somehow, there was a habit of tying everything and everything back to John. Every time that happened, his heart would pound.

What happened to his heart?

Riz furrowed his brows. Although no one saw him, he ended up making an unhappy expression. It's strange for him and, wondering what he's doing, he's becoming increasingly embarrassed.

As he exhaled deeply to calm his feelings, a young noble, who was staring at him, made up his mind and walked towards him.

Taking advantage of that, the men and women nearby also started talking to him with a smile. In Riz's heart repeated that this place was a hunting ground.

They are eagles, rabbits, and foxes. If he catches them, his personal connections will expand.

Perhaps because it had been a long time since she had challenged socialization as an aristocratic young lady, after a while, her head started to hurt.

When it got worse, his vision went dark like a cloudy day. The best thing for him is to finish everything here.

He lowered his head slightly and, before he could give it any attention, the men and women were twisting words that disturbed his physical condition and an open path. Riz is grateful for that.

Telling Virma that she would wait in the carriage first, she rushed to where John was standing at the stables.

He'll have her caress the temple to his forehead. For some strange reason, when he was touched by that big hand, the pain would soften.

Riz involuntarily sighed as he imagined that. His hand was his and even his gaze should be directed towards Riz in the end. If this was an art gallery then she could put her head on her lap, and she did not need to be disappointed.

He let his mind run increasingly rampant as he endured the pain that seemed to be piercing deep into his head.

If he finds a new marriage partner ...

Will the man's hand soften his headache like John's?

If a man with such tender hands would be her husband, wouldn't his days always be peaceful and endlessly blessed? He was confused at himself for feeling this all of a sudden.

Honestly, what happened to him? To compare her future husband, whose face she does not even know, to the devil.

He sped up his legs as if to dispel his guilt. Until he approached the carriage, he would not think about it anymore!

Although he swore resolutely in his heart, it felt like reality was chasing him to the end.

“…?”

After he reached the carriage stop, there was a carriage used by his house, but John's important figure was not there.

When he asked a coachman, he was told that a priest-like man had come and taken John somewhere.

“What kind of man is it?”

"Yes, miss, it's a very respectable, polite, and loving pastor."

The coachman gave the model an answer. Even if the truth was different, he would probably answer like this; there was nothing else he could say. There are many who think that talking badly about a pastor will get them punished.

"Yet…"

Did something happen?

Both seem to be acquaintances.

"- I saw. Thank you." Thank you."

Riz had the coachman wait here and retrace his steps back to the church.

The moment he heard the word "introduction", the first thing he felt was discomfort.

John is contracted to Petron, the former bishop of the Seventh Church, before Riz. Perhaps among the priests there were some who shared the secret, or there were people close to him.

That he had met people who were in contact with the contractor earlier. The foolish thought that John would leave her shook her heart.

This was the first time she had such panicked emotions for someone else. He wasn't sure he could be calm.

Riz turned away from the pent-up feeling in his heart. Anyway, he's gonna find John.

The church can also be entered from the train stop. That's where he came from. Basically, every church in the royal capital was designed to be easily accessible to the nobility.

It happened when he climbed the stone steps in front of the carriage stop and exited onto the path.

Riz saw a priest standing in the row of columns in front of him to the side.

Their eyes meet and Riz stops. This is the man, he thought. There was no doubt that it was this priest who took John away. He seems to be waiting for her.

He approached with casual steps and stopped in front of Riz while smiling gently.

"You're the young Miss of the Milton family, aren't you?"

Riz quickly observed the priest while he lightly pinched her dress and bowed respectfully.

He was in his late twenties or, no, was that his early thirties? He wore a pale robe adjusted into one cloth, the stole hanging on his shoulder was golden, and his eyes were blue with a slightly cold impression. However, thanks to his friendly expression, it was well hidden. Her hair was gray which reflected silver due to its light level. There was not much change in his voice and his voice was deep, but calm. He was the one who gave the impression of an optical illusion painting.

If he was not in this situation then he would be interested in the priest in front of him.

“My name is Greco Loeil. I am a Supan priest, in charge of managing the sacred paintings and sacred tools in the First Church. But I have been assigned to the Seventh Church since last month. ”

“Pastor Greco. As you know, my name is Riz Milton. I am the youngest daughter of the southeastern ruler, Earl Adovuil. "

Riz was surprised by the sudden self-introduction, but he did not show it and easily gave his name back.

He was no ordinary priest who held ceremonies. A special organization of clergy whose role is limited to religious works of art or in other words the management of relics is called Supan priest. He heard they were special priests of this independent country who emphasized the protection and development of art while also, in particular, investigating demonic possession; however, he did not know if this was true.

“Before I borrowed Mr. Hine's wisdom from the Milton house on many occasions about the authenticity of religious paintings. However, the man had currently crossed over to the neighboring country, right? "

"Yes. He plans to look for art there for now. "

“Pak Hine is also familiar with classical art. I have no doubt he can even understand the difference in works with motifs between the Bible and the Old-Verse Bible. "

Greco's explanation is subtle. From his position, it was not strange to interact with Hine, a noble art dealer.

Riz saw his face again.

Putting aside portrait painting, he was not skilled in remembering the facial features of human flesh and blood. But, if he thought back carefully, he had seen her several times inside this church.

That reminded him, didn't he also come to his art gallery twice?

“I always thought I'd like to talk to you. If you don't mind, can I have your time? ”

His attitude and manner of speech were polite, but there was a resonance that did not allow rejection at the core of his voice.

Riz let his gaze flow quickly around him. Close to the carriage stop, the servants waiting for their master stood up with bored gazes. There were also people who glanced at Riz and the man who was talking on the stone stairs.

"Your thoughts, Miss?"

“... Yes, I don't mind.”

He returned his gaze to Greco. He smiled widely and, putting both hands behind his back, pushed him with "Then, why don't we take a small walk?". Like how he came to her, he continued with a relaxed gait. It seemed that he did not want others to hear the contents of their conversation.

In Riz's heart put up a vigilance as he walked over to follow her. He didn't think a pastor would hurt him inside the church but, no matter how hard he tried, this man was shady.

As he sent a doubtful look at that slender back, Greco turned around.

“I have visited art gallery in Houro before.”

“It was an honor. I wish there was a job that touched Dad's heart. ”

Riz looked back at Greco's smile while having a harmless and non-offending conversation.

In the end, it seemed like he did not see wrong. He had seen it in an art gallery.

“Even among us, Reverend Supan, your art gallery became the topic of conversation.”

“I am very excited to have received interest from the Fathers; however, most of the works we handle in my art gallery are very much for entertainment. There are also those who tend to be radical expressions, so I wonder if it has not been considered disrespectful? ”

"Not everything. Popularity with the streets also has important implications. "

“I'm glad to hear you say that.”

Cold sweat spreads. Saying that they are interested sounds good, but actually it has no good implications.

That would be tantamount to being warned that they are registered as potential reconnaissance. Why his art gallery— Riz was only confused for a moment then guessed too much. Especially if Greco realizes John's true identity. He employs a demon and his fiancee experiences "sudden death".

Never in his life was he so grateful for his lack of self-expression. To his mother's teachings, "Never forget a woman's mask at any time!" too.

“However, even though I want to greet you, I am always blocked by John.”

Riz stop.

By John?

"Yes. John Smith's. Art gallery managers you employ. "

Greco repeated the name, as if blocking a way out.

So, this time I have to take a strong method.

"strong?"

During their conversation, he wanted to take off his gloves. His palms were sweaty and uncomfortable.

Greco's attitude remained consistent. He showed the typical merciful smile of the church people. Like how Riz wears a female mask, he also wears a priest mask, and they face each other.

Riz sighed and calmed his trembling heart. In this situation, where he did not know where the conversation would end up, he could not point out any pointless weakness.

“Pastor Greco, do you know John?”

He deliberately ignored the dangerous, "forceful" words, which he had just heard and asked.

We are old friends.

Greco didn't bring it up anymore either. He turned back to face forward and calmly walked through the corridor.

Churches in the royal capital were generally built impressively. They are wide and tall.

Its decoration, which can be considered luxurious, strongly reflects the religious point of view, faith, and sensibility of the era it was built on: there are elegant columns that make half the arch, the arch of the, domes with a large number of precious gems are scattered around it, colorful decorative ceiling paintings depicting the world of heaven, and angelic statues are so beautiful that it is not strange if they move. Riz felt like he could hear the flapping of their wings. Polished knowledge and techniques are beautiful. And the place where beauty techniques are concentrated is the Church.

Stone floor tiles carved with pictures of birds made the sound of their shoes echo slowly.

The pictures of the stone floor were already shabby and faint, like faded paintings, and perhaps it came from the coming and going of many devotees. At the peak of this beauty, the history of everyone walking like this accumulated.

From time to time, they pass by believers and pastors. Looking at Greco, they would bow lightly.

Pastor Supan runs a studio exclusively with the church and actively interacts with art dealers on the streets. It's possible that Greco met his uncle Hine there. But what about John's case? He wouldn't be wrong in thinking this was connected to the previous contractor, would he?

Riz looked at his back sharply. There was elegance in his movements, and it was not an action that one could learn in a short period of time. He was a priest from a noble background.

“You're talking about being an old friend, but how long have you known John?”

He threw out this question and he paused before twisting his entire body to deal with it.

However, his gaze was not on Riz, but rather on the granite saint beast statue that was placed inside the cavity of a pillar.

Riz looked there too. It was a winged lion with a flowing mane and its front limbs raised. It was a pose filled with liveliness, as if even now he would leap over his prey. He stared in awe at his supple back and the strength of his hind legs that supported his weight

“—Do you think this statue is not strange?”

"I'm sorry?"

The topic is changed and Riz is confused.

“This is a holy statue. However, if you look closely, there is a sense of discomfort. "

He was triggered by Greco's words and turned his gaze to detail.

The pillar cavity was built in a place slightly higher than Riz's line of sight. Therefore, he naturally had to look up.

Riz looked at her for a while then suddenly flinched. Is there a symbol of defamation?

The very perfect sculpture was carved with great care. The movement of the fur is very detailed and makes a person feel the wind.

But what caught his attention was the flow of fur around the stomach. Depending on how it was perceived, there seemed to be many small upside-down crosses carved there.

He reflexively took a step back. Why are blasphemy statues placed inside churches?

If he had not mistakenly remembered, John had said before that there were a number of monstrous symbols carved on the walls of the Seventh Church. Could this statue of a saint beast be one of those secrets? What about the angel statue next to the wall placed facing this statue of a saint beast?

Riz turned to Greco. Why did he feel like telling her about the existence of such an ominous piece of art?

“Distorted painting is not limited to oil painting or watercolor painting. If you interpret 'images' in a broad sense, then it could be objects such as statues or hymns. ”

He was still the loving pastor as always, yet with a smile he could not see it.

Riz's back suddenly turned cold. It seemed like this man, who was a priest, was being together with this blasphemous lion.

Riz pressed this terror into the lower part of his chest and straightened his spine. His headache did not heal. If he did not lock his legs firmly then it felt like he would fall to his knees on the spot.

“Bu Riz knows too right? Distorted painting is when the creator subconsciously draws blasphemous symbols in their work. It was equivalent to a blessing for the devil. They happily lived there and, shortly thereafter, called for disaster in their neighborhood. ”

You also heard an explanation about the distorted painting from John, didn't you? Greco asked in a confident tone.

However, the color of his eyes suddenly changed. It was as if he had changed from a priest to just a man.

“Stay, Miss Riz, you are beautiful.”

"-uh?"

He approached in an instant.

He was confused by the sudden compliment. There was heat in his eyes that looked at him.

"If I were a sculptor, I would move my chisel with undivided attention to capture your beautiful appearance for good."

“... I appreciate your compliments.”

“You have a beauty who steals hearts. One of your moves will make a poet make a hundred poems, and a writer will imagine a number of stories. "

Riz was used to his admired appearance. Nothing but her appearance, which she inherited from her mother, would receive praise from the other sex. After all, she was a closed and sickly woman with dead eyes.

Putting that aside, they were talking about distorted paintings, so why did he suddenly start talking about his personal appearance?

It happened as he tilted his head, unable to read his thoughts.

“However, John will not submit and be interested only in beautiful women.”

Riz's breathing was choked. The heat from Greco's eyes disappeared and he regained his composure again.

“He's nesting near you and tied to that art gallery because there's a distorted painting there, right?”

The conversation was not changed for no reason.

He deliberately touched her personal appearance to see her reaction.

“.... Father Greco, you were the one who sent the letter to my art gallery, right?”

He finally understood the reason why he was asked many times by the Seventh Church to transfer ownership.

“Ah, so you look around its contents.”

Did he invite this situation to them by continuing to be noncommittal in his response?

To make his response confused, he takes a "strong" approach - meaning a method that implies a threat to John. There is no doubt that Greco knew John's true identity, even after touching on the topic of the distorted painting.

However, there are still some points that are unclear. Riz had been silent about John's secret before they were contracted, so why call now? And what reason do they insist on removing art galleries?

“So, where is John now?”

From the coachman's testimony, he knew a priest John knew took him.

“Nona Riz, I see you have a strong heart. You move the conversation forward calmly without being interrupted. ”

Greco said that in a tone that did not sound insulting.

—It is impossible for him not to be afraid.

Riz kept this rebuttal only in his mind. He wanted to avoid confrontation with church-related people as much as possible.

If their conversation turned sour, he would even cause trouble for his father. Unlike Virma, who is sweet to her children, her father is very strict. In order to protect their honor, she had the determination to leave even her biological daughter behind.

“I can't help but wonder. Why are virtuous people attracted to evil beings? Even Father Petron was very fond of John. "

Greco smiled wryly.

Riz doesn't actually know what kind of days John spent with his previous contractor, Petron.

However, when he saw John, he would feel something vague.

Aren't they probably having an abusive relationship where they cheat on each other?

“Are you willing to tell me? Where's John?"

When he patiently repeated his question, he did not immediately reply and fixed the gold-stealing position hanging on his shoulders with a very careful action. Riz felt annoyed, but waited for an answer without making him rush.

The ladies and gentlemen who seemed to have completed the service and returned to their carriages passed by them. The sound of their shoes hitting the stone floor slid into his ears.

After they moved away, Greco finally opened his mouth.

He was restrained in the Sacred Ara Tree Room.

"Controllable…?"

Riz furrowed his brows deeply. He could not hide this expression.

“It was a room decorated with chairs commonly used by the eighteenth pope, Urbaunus. Now, we Supan priests also use it as a meeting room. "

“If you hold John over the art gallery issue, can you free him? Let's solve this problem between us. "

“There are other problems. He is suspected of murdering the former bishop, Petron. "

"What did you say?"

He forgot his anger and fear and stared fixedly at Greco. Even when talking about violent words like murder, a huge change to Greco's expression was nowhere to be seen. He is just loving and calm.

"Why was he suddenly treated as a criminal?"

“It was not known to the public, but there had been suspicions since before. After all, he is a cunning demon—, isn't he? ”

"!"

Greco clearly states John's true identity.

“Already expected, you know too. I think it's natural. "

Knowing that he was looking for a reaction, in Riz's heart groaned. Please, mother, teach me how to wear a woman's mask harder than any iron.

“Looking at your appearance, my heart raced against my better judgment. To think you would give me a feeling of immorality. "

Riz refused to ask if he was a pervert and shifted his emotions.

“... Isn't it just you, Father Greco, but also the other priests, who even now protect the love and teachings of the former bishop, who knew about John? And, because of that, there is suspicion? ”

“John is more designated a suspect because he is closest to Father Petron than because of his demonic identity. Although, well, there are also pastors who have realized his true identity. "

Somehow, it was an unclear answer. Whether it was because he didn't know exactly or because he deliberately avoided statements, he couldn't read them from his appearance.

"I was one of Father Petron's students, so I immediately realized his true identity."

A few questions arise. Is he okay even if his own master contracts a demon?

Even if he was not interested in the circumstances of others due to his indifferent personality, from the standpoint of his position, he felt it was not something that could be taken for granted. Normally, wouldn't one be surprised and desperate to distance themselves from the demons at all costs? He should have tried to exorcise the demon and, if that didn't work out, discussed this with the commission's board of inquiry. That's such an important issue.

He wanted to overwhelm her with questions, but now he had to get John back first.

“Pastor Petron met the end of his life without any signs. Despite the suspicions, it is known that Father Petron loved John like a son. Therefore, he was quickly removed from the target of the judgment at the initial stage. But…"

Greco looked at Riz, as if troubled.

“She comes to you. And, this time, your fiancee suffered a suspicious death. "

Riz withholds vertigo. He wants to scream.

—Did Sir Emil's "death" cause John to be suspected again !?

“Sir Emil's stepmother, Lady Rachel, makes a scene in the church. Yes, I'm sure he said his stepson was killed by a demonic image. And that's because the Milton family's daughter is cursed. "

Riz wants to sit down. Naturally they were suspected of this.

Although the painting was originally Emil's own plan, Riz also helped elope. It is revealed that Rachel made a fraudulent transaction with her business and therefore, at this time, she is awaiting trial. He might panic and want the slightest benefit for his trial.

In addition, the scandal relating to the youngest daughter of Milton House is far more interesting in the eyes of the people than the destruction of the alone Rachel. It's not wrong if he wants to attract everyone to Riz.

Needless to say for John, who was restrained, but Riz himself was in quite a dangerous position.

He was fed up with his own recklessness. In the end, she was just a noblewoman who knew nothing about the world. Once a problem occurred, how much influence it had on the people around him — how far the ripples would spread, he simply did not anticipate this well.

However, Riz immediately closed his regrets and focused his consciousness on Greco.

It is precisely at times like these that he needs to calm down.

“Curse me, bullshit. It was a misunderstanding and a grudge. Of course, I sympathize with Lady Rachel's unfortunate circumstances. "

“Misunderstanding, you say?”

"Yes." Yeah."

Greco looked as if he was trying to hold back a laugh as he nodded without hesitation. Riz did not care about that and continued to talk.

In addition, John did not kill Father Petron.

“Yeah, are you insisting he's innocent? Did he not just cheat you? ”

John had said earlier that Petron was killed by another demon. He was obsessed with looking for a distorted painting for that reason. His contract with Riz is also to take revenge on the demon that killed Petron.

According to him, he had the so-called "Sacred Eye" which was possible to look into the demons hiding in the distorted painting which was a hiding place.

Riz went to explain this but refrained.

He should not carelessly give information to an opponent who was calmly threatening him.

“Do you believe in the reason of the devil? Or do you have the arrogance of being trusted by demons? "

Riz smiled faintly.

One of the teachings of Virma, who carries a hundred masked women, is to smile pretty whenever someone loses an answer.

“Pastor Greco, do you intend to rate John as a 'devil' rather than the adopted son of Father Petron? Is the request for the transfer of art galleries also on suspicion of being tainted by demons? ”

He showed a deep contemplative expression and stared at the statue of the saint beast.

“If this continues then John's real identity will be revealed to the public. Was it the sealing or the execution that was waiting at that end? "

Riz wanted to swear on his heartless words. What stopped him was because he caught something in Greco's roundabout expression. It seemed like he answered her question, but also did not answer it.

Come to think of it, Greco did the same when he asked if he was sending letters to art galleries or not. He did not clearly admit that it was "he". Was it someone else who sent the letter, not him?

Accusations of murder on John and urging him to hand over the art gallery, is that all church people?

However, it was Greco who held John captive. No, did he just take John there and hand over the catch to someone else?

He looked into his eyes after thinking all the way there.

“Can I be allowed to see John?”

“Alright now.. Even though he is under control, he is a clever demon and that contact is dangerous. He might use you to escape. "

Even though he replied like that, his voice sounded like he was testing it.

Looks like contact isn't banned and he'll be removed. She airs.

Who among them is a sneaky? Although he was a priest, he sought compensation.

“Oh Father Greco, a faithful friend of virtue and with a compassionate heart deeper than the ocean, please don't you point the way for this lost and miserable sheep? Yes, Your words are light and Your eyes are your hope and forgiveness brings salvation to the Earth. Even the dark forest will disappear in an instant and the birds of wisdom will sing with the height— “

“Hahaha, you are so funny. You make a request while boldly reading from the Bible sentence engraved on the pillar over there. "

Greco looked as if he unintentionally let out a laugh.

“But the grace of God is only given to those who believe in holiness. Instead, do you seem to believe in demons, Miss Riz? ”

He didn't see it coming. Is this retribution for having disrespectful thoughts about how God is unfair? Riz looked into the distance, but then immediately clenched his hands in front of his chest and pretended to do a sweet “request pose”, one of his mother's skills.

Please look at my clean and clear sincerity.

Sincerity, you said.

Greco's lips twitched.

“I am a devout believer. I often go to church looking for a good man. "

She covered her mouth with her hands, probably trying to hold back a laugh.

“Finding a good person..no, that's right. There's a wish trap hidden here and there. Right now, you should be in the middle of that road. "

“I thank you for turning it into a beautiful expression. Please tell God to look at me with tolerance. "

He turned to the side. His eyebrows clenched, but he knew that he was not angry.

“... Yes, Miss Riz, you are considered the Maiden of Stars by everyone. Even God should be impressed by your beautiful appearance when offering prayers. "

"Thank you very much. I was ordered firmly by my mother to be completely conscious to look neat and tidy even in the midst of prayer. After all, people do not know when they will attract the attention of good people. "

"That's incredible, no, an impressive amount of work."

His voice was clearly trembling with laughter.

“I wonder if God will respond to my efforts? But, right now, I want to see John more than a good man. "

“God bestows trials and mercy. That man should not be arrogant toward the love of God. "

“I understand, Father Greco. Please tell me the contents of the compensation called the trial. "

Finally his shoulders trembled as he laughed.

“I don't think you're this weird.. No, this attractive woman. I was confused and I didn't like it. It makes me want to spoil you. "

“Welcome to the road of destruction. Please pamper me completely and at your will. I can be spoiled indefinitely. "

Riz watched Greco while continuing to laugh with his head lowered for some time. She wondered if, thanks to her mother's education, she became quite skilled at conversing as well?

“—Aah, this is my defeat. All right, I'll let you meet him. ”

He wiped the tears of laughter from the corner of his eyes and pasted the smile of a priest, whose emotions could no longer be read.

“However, I can't let him be free. I'm sure he'll receive the punishment in the near future. If you say he's innocent then please look for evidence of that. "

“... Is proving John's innocence a payment to you, Father Greco?”

“Since the beginning, I have not asked for anything in return. I just want to avoid false accusations. Even if someone else is a demon. "

It was shady, but he probably wouldn't have received the right answer if he had stabbed further. Greco extended his hand behind the straight corridor. It was a beautiful move. He looked like a true messenger of God.

Riz moved his legs in the direction he pointed.

“After all, please be careful, Miss Riz.”

"For what?"

"If you cannot prove that he is innocent then you will also be judged heretical with the sin of protecting the devil."

"Is that so? I'll remember your advice. "

Riz's legs did not stop and his expression did not change either.

As a woman, even when she is afraid and anxious, she should remain graceful.

“—John.”

Devil Riz, as Greco said, was held in the Sacred Ara Tree Room.

He sat on a sturdy wooden chair supposedly commonly used by the eighteenth pope. Although it said he was detained, his limbs were not tied with ropes.

Perhaps just sitting in a saint's chair is the same as holding back.

Riz was aware of Greco's gaze as he retreated to the wall and approached John with his usual steps.

“John, aren't you hurt?”

To Riz who asked that, he replied without feeling with a calm expression as usual.

When he swore that he would come to save her and he just needed to wait, he sent disgusting replies back one after another. Furthermore, he even lectured him about laziness and other such things.

After a while, as they had a conversation that seemed to be out of sync, John turned a cold gaze to Greco.

"I want to talk to my own woman."

Greco immediately excluded that with "It can't be allowed".

John became unhappy to the point that even outsiders knew. Riz looked at Greco once and then knelt down in front of John, questioning him in a soft voice.

“John, can you not stand from this chair?”

“It is impossible until after sunset, where the power of darkness increases. My entire body was numb as if poison was poured into me. "

Riz lowered his eyebrows. Poisoning. He wore an indifferent expression, but wasn't that painful enough?

"I don't think ... I shouldn't have made you accompany me to church."

"What did you say? Who will put the medicine in that mouth if your health deteriorates during this time? "

“Wait, your priority is my medicine?”

"Others there?"

There is no hope for this demon.

“Could you reflect on yourself in an unusual way?”

He grunts. He was worried about her, yet what was with this attitude?

“Where is the need to be gloomy? There were tools and seals to welcome demons into the hidden church everywhere. Prosperity crime, pale horses spreading fire and death — even an ancient grimoire that begins with unpleasant statements is kept in the church archives. Therefore the devil can enter without permission even into the sacred space without being burned. "

Riz's eyes widened. Did he say that a statue of a saint beast was placed there to protect the demons?

But who exactly did that?

“Quite about me, you should return to the mansion and rest early. No blood on your face. Your head hurts, doesn't it? ”

"I'm fine."

He can't rest. He had to prove that John was innocent.

“Did you hear the reason why I was arrested?”

"Suspected of killing your previous contractor."

"really. So, it has nothing to do with my lady. Come back with the madam. "

His heart ached as he was told that briefly.

“... But now you are my demon.”

When Riz refuses to back down, John watches him.

“How about you sell that art gallery? You could have a new art gallery somewhere else. That way Mr. Hine can save his face. "

"Why did you say that?"

"If I'm on trial then it'll get you involved."

“You don't need to worry about that.”

“You received a letter from the church and, in fact, it is about art gallery buying and selling, yes?”

Unable to nod, he lightly glared at.

“If you hand over that art gallery to Greco there, at least, the Madam's safety will be protected.”

“But, John, you won't be safe.”

“Instead, my execution is good news for you. This may be your last chance to escape from the tainted chain of demons. "

“I don't want to let go of the art gallery or you... Have you forgotten your vows? You have to serve me as if you love me, don't you? Then I'll respond to that. "

John laughed out loud. Riz saw his glasses slightly tilted. He lifted himself up and fixed the position of his glasses. His smile deepened.

“Why, doesn't this sound like I'm loved by you?”

He thinks he's making reckless talks. However, right after their eyes met, the depth of his chest suddenly became hot as if fire was thrown in. He wanted to praise himself from the bottom of his heart for having difficulty expressing emotions on his face.

"Yes. It is close to love. "

Riz retreated and turned his body. He felt John's eyes.

"wait. I will definitely set you free. ”

There's no answer. He looks confused. He was struck by the urge to turn around and look at his expression.

At that moment, Greco, who had been standing beside the wall, approached with a wide smile.

“Bu Riz, if we don't leave soon we'll get caught. Naturally, this was a place where no believer could enter. "

Riz, after hesitating, asked Greco a question.

"Can you guarantee John's safety?"

“Unfortunately, I cannot promise that.”

He thought of naming Milton home but, if he couldn't save John, all of his family's lives would be in danger. That's something to avoid. But he also refused to leave John where he was at risk of harm.

In Riz's conflict, Greco suddenly looked at her with sweet eyes and grabbed her hand. It was an inappropriate expression of a priest. Riz's confused.

“Asking a priest like me to protect the devil. However, if you really want it then.Oh, I know, I want a gift from you as an individual and not a pastor. ”

"What's that?"

He wanted it to be a normal desire. If it was gold bullion or gems then he could prepare it, and if he borrowed Virma's strength then there was a degree of accommodation even in the church. But the desire he expressed was unexpected.

"Kiss me."

"Kiss?"

She's surprised. To be honest, he was worried that there would be more troublesome requests.

You'll be satisfied with that?

“... Huh?”

For some reason, Greco had shocked eyes, even though he was the one who wanted it. Or rather he looked at her with eyes that doubted his sanity.

"I understand. Let's do that. ”

"Huh!?"

"I've never done this to anyone other than a dog raised in my grandparents' house, so I don't know if it's to your liking."

“What, um, Miss Riz !?”

“I'm sorry, but can you bend over a little? You're tall so I can't call you. ”

“Think of this. Take it easy, Miss Riz! ”

“Specify location. Is that a lip or a cheek? Forehead?"

He wanted to finish this before he was told, oh it's okay. He pulled Greco's collar, while he panicked, and brought his face closer. Greco became a dead red as he said, “We cannot, we cannot”. Despite refusing with his mouth, both of his hands rested on Riz's shoulders. He was a man with a strange reaction.

"MY GIRL!!"

John suddenly shouted.

Riz reflexively gets shocked and releases his hand from Greco's collar. Greco also quickly retreated as if he was a boy who was found playing a joke.

"I can't believe this, but you don't seriously intend to follow this degenerate guy's bullshit, do you?"

Slumped. Greco's face twitched as he muttered sadly and, on that note, he fell silent.

Riz could not answer either. The expression disappeared from John's face.

“You are a young unmarried woman.”

Low voice. It made him feel like he was being sentenced to death.

"But, John, I think one kiss is a small price to pay if it can guarantee your safety—"

Riz cut his words in the middle.

Because the coldness in John's eyes behind his glasses increased.

He turned his gaze slowly, as if it was an enormous power, to Greco. Greco took a step back.

“Greco. You too, more or less, are a priest. What does it mean to bravely flirt with a woman in church? "

"Supan's priest is allowed to marry .. erm, no, sorry."

Greco tried to hide behind Riz's back while muttering his reason. What kind of priest is the devil lecturing?

“If you want a woman to go to a brothel. Don't tease my woman. "

John's eyes did not switch from Greco, who shrank behind Riz. If he was this strong, then he wouldn't need to help him, would he? Riz silently thought about this.

“Other worse if you want someone to play with it. First of all, my woman is not fit for cheating. Watch him closely, there was less light in this man's eyes compared to the head of the sheep that had just been decapitated. "

"Cutting the head of a sheep ..."

More light disappeared from Riz's eyes. Isn't there a better way to say it?

“In addition, my woman's physical strength is less than that of a baby and I will ask you not to make her walk around unnecessarily. He was a troublesome person whose health declined whenever the opportunity arose. Besides, he's very closed. It will be easier to keep the mole above the ground. His biggest problem was that, despite being aware of his own gentleness, he did not take care of his body at all. I've been thinking about putting dope in her throat while she's been up all night. "

After the head of the newly cut sheep is a mole.

His expression was so bad that there was no room for self-defense.

“... Wow, she's pretty overprotective, isn't she?”

Greco says this to Riz and sends a strange sympathetic look. John did not deny this and glared at him.

"If I'm not overprotective, this guy will die by the side of the road."

That's a declaration.

“Get my permission when you contact my miss. However, all meeting times must be within thirty minutes. "

Am I a prisoner or something? Riz wanted to say that but he refused.

“John, you don't have to worry too much because I'll be fine. Before I met you, I didn't cause anyone much trouble. ”

“However, at the moment, you have a body that cannot live without me.”

“Sick when you say it.”

John is perfect. He swallowed back his sigh and looked at her.

"I can't live without you, John, so I want to pay off your bills as quickly as possible."

"You have the priority of retreating if you end up fainting."

“Yes, I can't pass out safely without you. To be honest, I even want to take you home now. ”

He opened his mouth as if he were saying something. But in the end, he chose silence.

“... Miss Riz, let's go.”

Greco gently grabbed Riz's arm and pushed him. He nodded and turned towards the door with him.

Just before Riz left the room, he looked back. Wait, he told John without saying it out loud.

Because he'll definitely set her free.

John stared back at Riz as if he was looking at something a little dazzling.

As they walked down the path, a chorus boy approached from the front with quick steps. From the reddish-cheeked youth he received a message, “Virma looking for Riz”.

He had a few questions for Greco, but it seemed better to retreat at this moment today.

Riz thought of this and obediently returned to Virma.

In front of Greco he pretended to be calm, but in his heart that was not the case. He was very disturbed because John was suddenly arrested. Even he knows it's about himself.

He was worried about leaving John in the church. However, it did not seem like he was in a situation where his life was in danger if he was not helped out from there now.

Riz believed in his instincts. Moreover, there was fear that if he caused a commotion in that place and the people gathered then the situation where John was placed would deteriorate.

If the situation is more urgent then John should not be that easy. No doubt she would not even be able to meet him.

But it's a fact that he was accused of killing Petron.

That in itself might be why she obediently became restrained, but Riz could not remove the discomfort at that very instant.

There were too many unclear points in the explanation he received from Greco. It could even be said that he was too fuzzy. He may have deliberately hidden information.

Riz felt like he was in front of an elaborate abstract painting where many colors collided. In the end, what was Greco's true desire? Does he really want to execute John, or does he not want to act alone but hurts him to leave John so he wants the charges removed by someone?

Or is he not interested in John's well-being and just wants to uncover the truth of Petron's death? There's also the possibility that he's just looking around for Riz's mistakes and wants to steal his art gallery. He doesn't know what's right.

He doesn't like to dance to the whims of others and to the pictures they make, but the important thing is that John comes back unscathed. First, he will investigate how Petron was doing at the time of his death.

If he could not hold his breath there then he could not make the right decision.

Even so, it was a job he was reluctant to do. He's sure he'll touch John's past without permission.

Leaving the church, when he had been contemplating things even inside the carriage, his hand was suddenly grabbed by Virma, who must have misunderstood that she was sick.

“Riz, are you dizzy? How about we rent a room somewhere and get some rest? ”

Virma's eyes, as she looked at Riz's face, looked damp from fear and sadness.

Riz liked his mother's eyes. He thought it was the sun's eyes. Life burns and shines in their depths.

Her older sister, Grace, is the one who most inherits their mother's desires. Riz thought it was beautiful from the bottom of his heart. He's envious too. Instead, he was like a ghost. Hasn't half of his life been lost? That must be why he only shone half brightly.

“Riz?”

“—No need to worry, mom. I'm healthy."

Virma sighed lightly as Riz squeezed her back.

"Thul? It's okay then... Still, where did John go? ”

“It appears that he met a friend of his adoptive father, Father Petron. They must have had a lot to talk about, so I was asked to go back first. ”

He gave the reason he had thought of before. Virma looked as if she understood, but she showed a displeased expression.

“But leave you alone when your skin is this bad.”

Even with Virma it seems like John was decided to become Riz's nanny.

"I'm fine."

“She should be next to you even if you're okay. Is there anything more important in this world than my Riz? ”

Riz almost laughs to see Virma declare it with what looks like the dignity of a queen. He quickly tightened his expression.

“Yeah, Riz, why is your smile hidden?”

A smile doesn't suit me.

"Even if your smiling face looks curved like an evil witch, your mother will accept it with a broad heart."

“Mother, you taught me earlier that a woman should not smile easily. He had to aim for that 'moment' and smile. "

“Oh, did I say something like that? But you smile a lot in front of John, don't you? ”

“... What am I?”

“Ya, right. Unfairly. Will you show your mother? ”

Riz looked at Virma puffing her cheeks like a child.

He was confused and then a late embarrassment appeared on his back.

“But I also didn't mean to smile in front of John..”.

"Gosh my god."

Virma's eyes widened.

"My son. You don't know how special the expression you're making right now, do you? "

“Special... what do you mean?”

“That means my daughter is the most beautiful in the world!”

It was expressed with confidence and Riz was confused.

“Mother, think realistically, isn't it just God who knows the faces of all the people in the world? I believe just knowing the faces of all the people living in the royal capital would be more than pretty amazing. Incidentally, do you know who has repeated the most cruel and cruel massacre in this world? Yes, that's right, it's a God we trust with compassion. Floods, epidemics, burning meteors, plague locusts, they hunt human life very efficiently and without mercy. Death also hunts souls, but in the end this is due to God's command. But, if you tell this to people, you are guaranteed to be told that you do not know the love of God. They preach teachings about seeing the truth, yet deny the truth. I wonder if humans like contradictions? "

"Good, this kid!"

“By the way, I wonder if Death, during their lifetime, was a believing farmer? The scythe Death brought was a relic from a farming tool. "

“You changed the subject on purpose, didn't you? I won't let you! ”

Virma pinched Riz's cheek lightly and showed a beautiful smile that was suitable for a woman.

Why is he looking here with a happy expression?

Riz was uncomfortable.

I know that, I need to scold John later.

"Why?"

Because he's not here.

Riz looked around the small car.

Right now, if John was here…

Thinking about it, Riz realized that for the first time he did not know what to do with his feelings of loneliness. If she was beside him, then the brightness of his lack of life would be slightly better.

“—Do not worry, mother. John will be back soon. "

Maybe it was because he gave strength to the answer, but Virma put on a confused look.