The Saint Disappeared with Her Memories — Her Broken Engagement Decided the Kingdom’s Destiny - Chapter 22

From a corner of the Adventurer’s Guild, I quietly observed them.

Noella was chatting cheerfully with other adventurers, her smile carefree, occasionally listening attentively to magical consultations.

Nadine stood tall and reliable beside her, her posture dignified, her eyes constantly following Noella while remaining vigilant of their surroundings.

Emily amazed the surrounding adventurers with her demonstration of healing magic, her gaze now holding a confidence that hadn’t been there before. Seeing this scene, I became certain.

Her decision to leave the temple had undoubtedly been correct. I was glad I hadn’t tried to stop her back then, or suggested delaying with words like “you need more preparation.”

Noella had grown up entirely within the temple since childhood. Chosen as the Saintess from an early age, her extraordinary talent had earned her the title of “the strongest in history.” I had worried about how someone who had only lived in such a special environment would fare outside the temple.

I had been somewhat concerned. While her talents were abundant, would she be unable to adapt to a completely different environment? Or would she change?

But those worries had been completely unfounded.

She adapted surprisingly quickly to adventuring activities, completed difficult requests, and steadily built her reputation. She had no problems with interpersonal relationships. In fact, she handled them remarkably well. Her interactions with other adventurers were rich, and she continuously exerted a positive influence on those around her.

“Master Jamel, what are you doing over there?”

A hand lightly touched my shoulder as I was lost in thought. Turning around, I found Anctuan smiling. He was another comrade supporting Noella.

“Hmm, just thinking a bit.”

“Their performance is truly remarkable,” Anctuan said, following my gaze with a smile.

“Especially Lady Noella, she’s already standing at the center of the adventurers, shining as if radiant.”

“Indeed.”

I nodded quietly.

“What’s particularly impressive is how she’s completely transformed the guild’s atmosphere. This place, once grim and harsh, has become one that values the ‘spirit of mutual aid.’ If someone’s in trouble, others lend a hand. That’s undoubtedly Noella’s influence.”

“Without a doubt,” Anctuan agreed. “That’s how she’s always lived, and she continues to do so. That spirit spreads like ripples to those around her, continuously influencing them.”

“Even within the Adventurer’s Guild, those who admire her have naturally increased,” Anctuan remarked, sounding impressed. “Just like when she was the Saintess.”

“True. Though memories of her time as such should have vanished from the world, even in a different place, voices praising her emerge one after another. This isn’t mere coincidence.”

“Charisma, perhaps?” Anctuan seemed convinced Noella possessed it.

“She’s not just strong, she has a special charm that draws people in. It’s unrelated to status or titles, rooted in her very essence.”

“Exactly right.”

I nodded deeply.

Noella was teaching something to a young adventurer. Her expression was soft, filled with kindness. Lately, I’d been seeing her smile often. Not the superficial smiles from her temple days, nor the polite smiles for social interactions. These were natural, sun-like smiles welling up from the depths of her heart.

When she was with Nadine or Emily, she laughed with a lively voice, visibly vibrant. These were free expressions never seen during her temple life, burdened by pressure and constraints.

“As her mental state improves, I feel her magical abilities are advancing proportionally,” Anctuan said quietly. His sharp merchant’s eye hadn’t missed that change.

“That might be natural. Magic and spirit are closely related. Compared to when she lived under many restrictions, this free environment is likely drawing out her potential. Her magic, liberated from bondage, has become more refined and powerful than before.”

“She’s still growing,” Anctuan said with admiration. He always had an eye for recognizing value.

“Beyond what I had imagined,” I continued quietly. “Her potential is now immeasurable.”

“I hope these peaceful days continue forever,” Anctuan said, his eyes gazing into the distance. Concern colored his expression.

“But I’m well aware the world isn’t that sweet,” I replied in a heavy tone.

“I wish nothing would happen, but that’s unlikely. Something will occur. Something unfavorable to us, and soon.”

“I share your sentiment,” Anctuan said, his expression serious. His usual lighthearted demeanor was replaced by stern eyes.

“As her reputation as an adventurer grows, her existence will inevitably become known to them,” Anctuan lowered his voice as if wary of their surroundings. As a merchant, he had various information networks. He informed me about the temple’s current state.

“It seems they’re troubled by the current ‘Saintess’ Elise’s incompetence, and the temple itself faces financial difficulties and declining reputation.”

“And if rumors reach them about an excellent female adventurer with exceptional healing magic and combat abilities,” I continued, imagining various unfavorable scenarios in my head. I didn’t want it to happen, but…

“How will they act?”

“They’ll undoubtedly try to bring her into the temple,” Anctuan stated decisively. I nodded.

“The temple, plagued by troubles, must be desperately seeking capable personnel. If Noella appears as a renowned skilled mage, it’s clearer than fire that they’ll reach out for her.”

“What should we do when that happens?” Anctuan crossed his arms. His eyes held the calculating glint characteristic of merchants.

“We must consider it now.”

“We need to explore how to evade the temple’s attempts to recruit her,” I sighed deeply. Even after leaving the temple, we’re still troubled like this. I don’t want to be involved anymore. I don’t want Noella involved. Bitter emotions swirled within me.

“We haven’t discussed this issue with them yet. I plan to talk someday, but not now. I want them to enjoy this happy time fully.”

“You’re truly worried about them,” Anctuan said quietly. Understanding showed in his gaze.

“Of course. To me, she’s like my own daughter.”

That was my honest feeling. I’d watched over her since childhood, raised her, sometimes strictly, sometimes kindly. Even now, my wish for her happiness remains unchanged.

“What’s the best approach for all of us?” Anctuan asked with a serious expression. I thought for a moment before answering.

“Several ideas come to mind, but none seem decisive. However, one thing is certain.”

I put strength into my voice.

“I intend to do whatever it takes to protect their peaceful lives. I’ll use all my long experience and wisdom to protect them thoroughly.”

“Rest assured,” Anctuan smiled. His smile held firm confidence.

“You’re not alone. I’ll fully cooperate too. If my connections and influence as a merchant can help them even a little.”

I nodded with gratitude. Meeting this person and gaining his cooperation was great fortune for Noella and for us.

Noella’s joyful laughter reached my ears. A clear, bell-like, pleasant sound. She herself had grown stronger than during her Saintess days—both mentally and magically. She was already beginning to leave her mark as a solid adventurer. Even in the worst situation, she’d likely be able to carve her own path. I believed that.

Still, we should make preparations as best we can. Quietly, but surely.