Saint's Prison - Chapter 84

The End of Those Feelings

Even though it’s only been about an hour since we met, for some reason, I find myself becoming deeply infatuated with this girl.

I don’t think it’s love at first sight.

Certainly, Amal possesses a beauty that is not an exaggeration to call peerless, but I harbor emotions for her that cannot be dismissed so simply. The feeling there is not one of romantic yearning or admiration, but rather something akin to the nostalgia one feels upon meeting someone after a long time. Why do I feel such emotions towards her?

“…Andy-sama?”

I hurriedly raise my head at the call of my name.

“Ah, sorry. I was lost in thought.”

“No…”

Amal shakes her head slightly, casting her eyes downward. Her smile from earlier is gone, replaced by a doll-like expressionlessness. A somewhat cool atmosphere overwhelms me.

I scratch my head, unsure of what to do.

“Sorry about that. Even though I promised to come back, I ended up interrupting your prayers.”

“…No.”

“You sure?”

The conversation doesn’t flow.

It’s incredibly awkward. The silence is painful.

From our exchange so far, I thought she had warmed up to me a bit, but perhaps I was mistaken. But… I’m certain that my words have somehow touched a chord with her. I just don’t know the fundamental reason why.

Amal suddenly averts her gaze. It seems she’s looking at the bench placed in front of the statue. After a few seconds, she brings her eyes back to me.

“…Your luggage.”

“Eh?”

“Andy-sama’s, your luggage.”

Amal says this and heads towards the bench, lifting my backpack with an air of danger. She clenches her teeth and wobbles as she tries to carry my backpack.

The backpack is packed with water and portable food, among other things, for my trip to the remote village of Ryohomura. In other words, it’s pretty heavy.

For a petite girl like Amal, even holding it must be challenging. I quickly rush to her side and take the backpack from her.

“…Good, my backpack is safe.”

I let out a relieved smile. Honestly, being thrown into this unknown place so suddenly, I was anxious. Just having this makes me feel much more reassured.

Amal quietly watches me.

“Amal, thank you for keeping my backpack safe. It’s really a big help. But, I feel bad for overstaying my welcome. …I’ll be going soon.”

“Ah…”

As I say this and start to leave, she reaches out her right hand as if begging me to stay. It’s only for a moment before she lets her hand drop limply. I tilt my head at Amal’s unnatural behavior.

“…Amal, is something wrong?”

She doesn’t respond to my words, instead staring blankly at her hand. Then, she forcefully presses down on her right arm as if to chastise herself.

“…It’s nothing.”

“Is that so?”

“Yes.”

She nods faintly.

She seems like she wants to say something, but I hesitate to probe too deeply.

“Well then.”

I wave my hand.

Amal shivers and quietly looks down.

“See you later.”

“…Eh?”

She looks up quickly, staring at me with an expression of disbelief.

“Sorry, I didn’t mention it earlier. I spoke with Priest Benedict, and it turns out I can stay here until I find a way home. So, I’d be happy if we could get along while I’m here.”

“…Yes. Yes!”

Amal eagerly nods several times. I didn’t expect her to be so worried about me, so it makes me happy. A smile escapes me.

“Thanks. I’m really grateful to have you here since I’m totally lost in this place. It’s really good that you’re here.”

“Good that I’m here.”

She softly traces my words. Then, her dazzling red eyes glisten brightly.

“Yeah, it’s very reassuring.”

“I… Amal is happy to hear that from you, Andy-sama.”

“Huh? Of course. I’m counting on you.”

“Yes. Andy-sama. Please come to see Amal again. I ask of you, please.”

“Of course. In fact, I’ll be the one asking. Teach me all sorts of things.”

“If there’s anything Amal can do, please command me. I will fulfill all your wishes.”

Amal clasps her hands in front of her chest. She looks at me with determination and nods strongly. She’s like a Sister mirror of a nun who won’t abandon someone in need. Very reliable.

“Amal is truly a good girl. I might be a bother, but I’ll be relying on you. And if there’s anything I can do for you, let me know.”

Her bright crimson eyes sparkling, Amal bows deeply. I bow my head in return. After a few seconds, I turn on my heel and walk towards the door. Feeling Amal’s intense gaze on my back, I step into the dim corridor.