Regressor's Instruction Manual Episode 923
Zen (2)
"I would like to express my gratitude for your help."
"No, as I mentioned before, I just did what was expected of me."
"If you hadn't been there at that time, I wonder what would have happened..."
"Even if it wasn't me, someone else would have stepped forward."
'Why is he acting so reserved?'
Why is he so grateful?
"Your humbleness is always admirable... Zen. ...Is my gratitude making you uncomfortable?"
Am I being too thankful? Did I do something wrong?
"No, it's not like that."
"I just wanted to convey my sincere appreciation. If it bothers you..."
I must have done something wrong. The Honorary Cardinal made a mistake. The pure and innocent Honorary Cardinal made a big mistake.
Quietly lowering my gaze, I might have made the Templars uncomfortable, who are accustomed to being detached from the outside world, even if it was just a simple expression of gratitude.
Though he had personally stepped up to help, it seemed there was no room for any other thoughts. The moment he showed a slightly surprised expression was right then.
"I..."
Even going down on one knee was unnecessary.
"I have sinned, Honorary Cardinal. I knew you would feel that way..."
'Why is this guy suddenly like this?'
He's not some medieval knight.
"Please get up. It's not your fault, Zen. It feels a bit uncomfortable, creating this awkward atmosphere. Why don't you take a seat for now?"
"..."
"Please have a seat, Zen."
"Yes, I will do that."
It even feels more rigid than the first time we met.
Of course, I expected him to be stiff. It seems he wasn't like this from the beginning... Also, the intention behind calling me to this room was impure.
Not only is it not suitable for him, but he also has to do an unwanted task... However, it's not just that; there is something odd about his attitude.
For example, the action of suddenly kneeling just now. It's just a speculation, but...
'You sacrificed yourself to the God of Resurrection and Resurrection, didn't you?'
I don't know if he's conscious of it or not. Maybe the recent conversation we had together had an effect, or perhaps it's because of the way I presented myself at the previous prayer meeting...
Perhaps there was an image of me as an honorary Cardinal. Someone who sacrificed everything, a great saint, or an exemplary saint. There might have been such inherent images.
Recently, due to certain events, maybe those thoughts have changed or intensified.
His attitude seems more like he's facing a superior or someone he should serve, rather than an ordinary person.
"How about having a cup of coffee? If it's okay, I can..."
"I, I will do it, Honorary Cardinal."
"No, you can sit. I apologize for saying this, but... I can't imagine you serving coffee, Zen."
It probably won't taste good.
"I'm sorry about that."
"Hahaha, it's okay. It's a bit awkward for most Templars to do these things. It actually feels a bit different. Well then... I'll excuse myself."
But damn, there's no coffee.
I thought it would naturally be in the cabinet or something, but I can't see it.
'No, seriously, why are you treating your guests like this?'
However, there is wine placed instead.
"There's no coffee..."
"I'll make sure to bring it."
"No, it's okay, Zen. Other priests might feel uncomfortable... How about having a glass of wine and talking instead?"
An Honorary Cardinal personally serving wine.
"To be honest, I don't particularly enjoy discussing about Benigore over drinks, but... Sometimes, I do find some pleasure in it."
"....."
"Have you ever heard of a Cardinal that likes wine?"
"Well, it's not that I enjoy getting drunk, but it's enjoyable to share a drink with good people. Yes, especially on a day like today."
"Thank you..."
"But... is this where you usually stay, Zen?"
"It's not where I reside, but..."
"I see. So, where do you usually...?"
"Perhaps, you won't find it interesting. In my room, there are just some books to read and weapons on the table. I spend very little time there... most of the time, I am outside, performing missions, training, praying... For the Honorary Cardinal, it might seem quite dull and uneventful..."
"Such things can't be true. The story of Templar Zen, who is part of the Holy See's secret order, can't be uninteresting. I actually wish to hear more details."
Honestly, I'm not that interested. What these guys do is quite predictable. Still, this attitude of mine seems helpful.
Though there might be some security restrictions on certain information, some non-sensitive information should be allowed, right?
After all, his mission is to win the favor of the Honorary Cardianl... To create a good atmosphere, some information should be disclosed, especially the non-sensitive one.
"Of course, if it makes you uncomfortable..."
"No, it's just... I'm not sure where to start..."
"How about you tell me how you became a Templar?"
"I can't reveal all the details, but I wasn't trained in the Knights Order."
"Ah..."
"I remember receiving training for this since a very young age. Originally, I was raised in an orphanage run by the Church, but one day..."
"I see. It must have been a challenging training."
"I've felt physical exhaustion at times, but I never felt mentally exhausted. Somehow, my mind was always filled with the Holy Spirit, probably because I believed I could serve Benigore. I always felt grateful for everything and considered myself blessed. Although I was different from the other children who lived a regular life, I felt honored to be chosen by Benigore."
"Indeed, for She is always with you."
"Yes."
"However, it's not all due to the grace of the Benigore. Your thoughts, attitude towards life, your gratefulness, and the effort you put in each day, all contributed to the person you are now, Zen."
"Oh..."
"I'm sure Benigore has always watched you with the same thoughts. That's why you became an exceptional Templar, to praise and elevate Benigore even more."
'This young man lived a secluded life.' Either that or 'This bastard's just stuck alive' [[It gave me two translations, I couldn't pick any, so u choose]]
"Of course, I'm not speaking on behalf of Benigore. I'm just expressing my thoughts..."
"That alone is enough. Honorary Cardinal."
I told you that the time spent becoming a butterfly was not in vain.
He may have already felt that way, but hearing it directly from Benigore's son might have a different impact. His expression seems to have softened a bit.
Since we were casually sipping wine, and the atmosphere was better than expected, it seemed my earlier choice of not asking about our business was effective.
Rather than pressuring him to talk, I wanted to listen calmly, react enthusiastically, and shine my eyes. This way, he could feel more comfortable. He also seemed to enjoy the time spent with me, forgetting about his duty.
"Right... It must have been a tough training for you, huh?"
"Yes."
That was easy.
"I had some expectations, but it's quite fascinating. I met Benigore after coming to the continent... I'm curious what it's like to have been with Her since birth."
I don't want to show too much eagerness to get information. It's important to control my tone.
"It's impressive. Haha."
I show an exaggerated smile while clapping my hands. It would seem a bit unusual to say the least.
The Honorary Cardinal is not someone who would typically act this way - clapping hands and laughing like a child. It might seem strange or out of character.
Seeing the Honorary Cardinal get tipsy with wine is surprising. Some might be disappointed, but at least the person in front of me is not.
It's rather showing the true nature of Lee Ki-young, unburdened by the title of the Honorary Cardinal. An ordinary human being who wants to enjoy life despite the overwhelming responsibilities and burdens. This setting fits well.
thought I could understand why these bastards brought wine here, but it seemed like an opportunity to me. This opportunity might help me gain some useful information from these guys.
As the conversation continues, he seems to be genuinely concerned about me. It's like my worries about being kidnapped or something, which makes my earlier worries seem silly.
"Are you alright?"
If the Honorary Cardinal suddenly disappeared from the Holy See, it would be a huge deal. It would create a reason for Pope Basel to take action and the faithful to shine even more.
The Cardinals and Templars would go after Cardinal Johan, and he would probably go through various forms of torture, but he wouldn't budge. The situation would be out of control.
"Huh??"
Even the remaining Templars are likely to face national-level extermination.
"Ah?"
And the cozy hideout of the Mole Saintess would be exposed to the public, skipping many painful steps.
"Uh...?"
Subtly, I glanced at Templar Zen, as expected. He still looked concerned about me, as if he had completely forgotten his mission and duties for today.
'I wonder how long it will take for her to finish this job.'
Maybe a month? A week? Well, that should be enough time for Jihye Nuna to handle everything.
"It's getting quite late. Honorary Cardinal. You should probably go..."
There will be many more encounters like this in the future. Since only a few people know about this secret meeting being conducted secretly.
'Let's give it a try?'
It may seem a bit abrupt, but since I've set the setting of being quite intoxicated with wine, it should work.
Even though I'm filled with divine power, it's supposed that I'm weak against alcohol. Let's open my mouth with a slightly melancholy expression.
"Zen."
"Yes."
"Have you... seen much of the world... the continent?"
A saint confined by responsibilities and burdens. The knight who will set the saint free, or rather, make me free, was right in front of me.
----
Another conspiracy is cooking guys...
I've reached chapter 1006 reading the MTL's online, but I soon gave up, cause instead of actually enjoying the story, I just got headaches from trying to understand what means what.
Well, anyways, we're already in the 900's so it shouldn't take long to catch up to 1000 right?