Here’s the translation:
***
***— Delamis Palace — Colette’s Bedchamber***
Colette, unfortunately agitated, was to rest in her room for a while. The blood from her nose was somehow compensated for by the healing magic from myself and Pope Philip. However, due to overworking and overpraying recently, it was decided to take precautions. Thanks to the Pope’s unnecessary concern, I ended up carrying Colette to her room. I moved with the utmost care, worried that Colette might have another seizure in this situation.
“Alright, here we go. I’ll lay you on the bed, okay?”
“I apologize for the trouble, Kelvin-sama…”
“It’s fine. You’re working hard for Mel’s sake, so this is no big deal.”
“Hehe, I’m happy to hear you say so. Ah, yes. I can’t offer you much hospitality, but perhaps some nicely chilled water? I’ll pour it for you ri—”
“—Stop! It’s okay, I’m fine! I drank plenty earlier!”
“…? Is that so?”
Yes, that’s right. Besides, no matter how kind Colette’s offer is, I can’t drink that water. It brings back unpleasant memories, or rather, good memories, but they flash through my mind. Even if she had put something in the water, I think it would be fine now that I’m wearing the Ring of the Goddess… But still, it’s no good. Established facts are scary. Considering Pope Philip’s attitude earlier, being suspicious about this much is probably appropriate.
“Kelvin-sama, you don’t have to be so considerate. If you ask me if I had any hesitation, I did have my struggles. However, the Goddess I serve is indeed Melfina-sama. Melfina-sama is probably thinking of you and in anguish right now. In such a situation, I, as a shrine maiden, have no time to waver. So Kelvin-sama, please don’t worry so much. I’m fine.”
“Colette…”
This is bad. While I was having impure thoughts, she suddenly spoke with the earnest words of a saint. There’s no doubt I was worried about Colette’s well-being, but the contrast between the nosebleed earlier and this serious demeanor is too drastic. It’s too sudden, and I can’t think of a witty response…
“W-Well, don’t say that. Just as Colette worries about Mel, I worry about Colette. I’ll pour the water for you instead, so drink this and rest well.”
“…I’m sorry. That water, um… I’ll pass.”
“…”
—Appraisal Eye activated on the contents of the pitcher. Confirmed: Water containing an aphrodisiac. Maker: Colette Delamilus.
“…Colette-san? Where did this water come from? My Appraisal Eye is telling me it’s some kind of aphrodisiac?”
“W-Well, I thought I’d try to help Kelvin-kun feel better.”
“Oh, in a double sense, I see.”
This room isn’t being watched by the Pope, is it?
“Honestly, just go to sleep and replenish your blood. I’ll stay by your side until you fall asleep. Here, sleep well.”
“Ah, thank you. Goodnight…”
Colette lay down and closed her eyes. If Sera were here, she could have put her to sleep with magic, but my White Magic only has the effect of sharpening the senses. The only thing I can do is protect the peace of this room.
“…Kelvin-kun.”
“Yes? What is it?”
“Perhaps because I’m still excited; I can’t sleep at all.”
“…”
Perhaps I should leave the room?
“Ah, please don’t try to leave! The aroma, the healing effect of the aroma!”
“That aroma is probably what’s exciting you… Ah, it’s an old-fashioned method, but try closing your eyes and counting sheep. You’ll probably fall asleep eventually.”
“I see, that’s a good idea. Then…”
Colette lay down in bed again and closed her eyes.
“Melfina-sama, one. Melfina-sama, two. Melfina-sama, the—”
“Hey, you idiot, stop! Do you want to die, Colette!”
Unlike Melfina, Colette was incredibly difficult to put to sleep.
***
***
“Haa…”
After somehow managing to get Colette to sleep, a sense of fatigue weighed heavily on my back. First of all, the choice of person was wrong. The closer I am, the more fanatical Colette becomes. Efil would have been far more suitable.
“Good work, Kelvin-kun.”
“Whoa, you startled me! Ange, when did you get here…”
The moment I closed the door to Colette’s room, I was startled by a voice from behind, right by my ear. I calmed down immediately when I recognized Ange’s voice, but if it had been an enemy, I would have been completely outmaneuvered. Getting caught from behind by Ange is something that’s happened before, but I must have let my guard down due to relief. I deeply regret it.
However, Ange, this is Delamis Palace. I told you that intruders couldn’t get in, so please don’t break that premise so soon. You definitely phased through the wall to get in, didn’t you?
“Hahaha, sorry, sorry. You don’t need to say what you’re thinking. I’m aware of it.”
“You are…”
“Well, my old job’s habits haven’t quite worn off. You know how when you see an impregnable castle, you feel like attacking and breaking it? It’s the same feeling as yours, Kelvin.”
“…I don’t feel like that?”
“Did you hesitate slightly just now?”
Regardless, it’s been a while since I’ve seen Ange, who I entrusted with the investigation of the Dragon Kings and others. I’d like to give her a quick hug, but I don’t know where the Pope’s eyes might be. I’ll have to hold off until we get back to the mansion. Hmm? Wait a minute. If Ange is back—
“—Did you find the whereabouts of the remaining Dragon Kings?”
“Bui.”
“You did it!”
“Whoa!”
I gave Ange, who was giving me a peace sign, a hug with a hearty rub on her cheek. The Pope’s eyes? Who cares, I want to embrace Ange right now!
“Ehehe, it’s warm. …Ah, I’m happy you’re happy, but to be precise, I found someone who knows the whereabouts of the Wind Dragon King and the Thunder Dragon King.”
“Someone who knows the Dragon Kings’ whereabouts? Where did you find them?”
“In the Western Continent, a little bit. So, I brought them here quickly.”
“…Hmm?”
Ange bringing someone quickly. The scene from the Underworld, where she brought Demon Ox and Snake, Garia Kudo-kun, flashed through my mind. Back then, Ange, if I recall correctly—
“Ange, bringing someone over by kidnapping is a bit much.”
“I didn’t kidnap anyone! I explained the situation and got their permission! Geez, Kelvin-kun, what do you think of me?”
Her peculiar neck fetish. Of course, I wouldn’t say it out loud.
“Right, sorry. However, the fact that they agreed and came straight here suggests they’re quite bold. So, what’s their name?”
“A woman named Bakke. I’m having her wait at a tavern in town. I’ll guide you, so come with me.”
The moment I took Ange’s hand, my body phased through the palace wall.
