I Couldn't Become a Knight, But for Some Reason, I'm Beloved by Dragons - Chapter 08: Sleeping Beauty

Chapter 08: Sleeping Beauty

“…I can’t believe Luna can speak.”

After spending the night with Luna, I returned to the lodging after working diligently the next day.

Although it was my first time speaking with her directly, I felt that even when her voice wasn’t audible at certain times, I could sense what she was thinking, so I could understand Luna’s words when she claimed that she had indeed spoken.

“… Haah.”

When I think about what happened yesterday, I can’t help but sigh. 

The two people who were instantly erased from existence by a scorching breath in front of my eyes… I actually learned today that the aristocratic family they belonged to was illegally buying and selling slaves, and that the knights who served them for generations were also involved in their wicked deeds. Moreover, it seems that it was quite a gruesome affair.

~There is no mercy for those who do not please me. But I also don’t eliminate everyone just because I don’t like them indiscriminately!~

Dragons are sensitive and seem to be able to respond to the human heart to some extent… but there are conditions for that.

~We are sensitive to the malice that approaches those we trust. Well, even if I don’t intervene, Lichter would have noticed it soon. The mistakes of nobles are something that is commonplace in the world today.~

That’s why you could say that the security of Dragonis is well maintained. As commoners, we may not even know about the scandals of the nobles, which are dealt with internally. Maybe they are disposed of without us knowing. However, despite all that, tomorrow I am supposed to meet with her again.

~So, you’re heading back to that woman’s place again tomorrow? You’re quite privileged, Xeno.~

Although there was a thorn in her words, Luna seemed to be enjoying it. Even though she usually looked lonely when I left, she seems to be in a good mood because I always bring back stories about Runa.

“…hmm.”

I’ve thought about it several times, but Luna and Runa… maybe it’s because their names are similar, but I feel a sense of familiarity.

“I wonder if Luna is actually Runa?”

Even if I consider such a thing, the fact that a dragon can become a human being is only mentioned in books and is not realistic —because no one has ever seen it. I tried to bring up the topic with Luna, but her reaction was not very enthusiastic. 

Well, I look forward to meeting Runa just like I look forward to meeting Luna. 

With that in mind, I went to bed and fell asleep immediately.

▼▽

“Today, I’ll be the first one… no, wait.”

The next day, when I arrived at our meeting spot, Runa was already there, leaning against a large tree facing the fountain. She seemed to be asleep with a book resting on her lap. Even though she had said that she likes napping, I couldn’t help but feel uneasy seeing her sleeping so defenselessly. Well, this place is truly safe, though.

“…Xeno?”

“…Sorry, did I wake you up?”

Even though I thought I had walked quietly, her eyelids lifted as soon as I approached. 

She didn’t stand up, just patted the spot next to her, urging me to sit. I did as she asked and sat down next to her.

“I was reading a book and got sleepy.”

“What were you reading?”

“A love story.”

“… Hmm?”

“Why are you making that face… Oh, did you think it doesn’t suit me or something?”

“No, that’s not it! I’m just surprised!”

“You’re not just surprised!”

That’s just how she talks! 

Runa jumped on me with a thud, but I couldn’t help but smile at her mischievous behavior. 

Even though her frequent body touches make my heart race, her playful side is just as charming.

“We need to make up for the lack of contact during the week.”

“That’s true, but we only meet once a week.”

“Right… wait, I just thought of something!”

Runa suddenly raised her voice, as if she had realized something. I tilted my head, wondering what was on her mind. As usual, we talked about what had happened during the week, mainly about our time together, but I didn’t mention anything about what had happened to me.

(Even though nothing really happened to me, it was still like an event in a way.)

I could try to hide it, but unfortunately, I’m a bad liar because I’m a simple guy. I thought it was okay not to say anything and it would be fine, but Runa’s unexpected words made me nervous.

“I think there’s still something you’re not telling me, but I won’t ask. I understand, you know.”

“…Eh?”

“Hehe♪”

I always wonder why she can see through me like that. It’s a little scary, but I don’t have any negative feelings because of her personality.

“I actually just woke up from a nap and I’m feeling refreshed. I’ll give you a pillow so you can relax and relieve your weekly stress.”

“…Okay.”

I didn’t dare to refuse, it felt like it was not allowed, so I accepted Runa’s offer and lay down with my head on her soft thigh.

“Good job, you worked hard this week.”

“Are you my mother?”

“Well, that’s a bit… I wouldn’t say I don’t like it though.”

A woman who looks like Runa is a mother? That’s quite an age deception.

As Runa stroked my head, I started to feel sleepy.

My eyelids become heavy as I doze off, but I endured it since I still had some energy left.

“You’re always doing your best. That makes me think I can be pretty selfish sometimes.”

“Selfish?”

“Yes… but I just don’t want to let go of that… Now, go to sleep.”

She gently placed her hand on my eyes, and I surrendered myself to the sensation of sinking consciousness… and then I heard this at the end.

“You belong to me —together, for eternity.”