The Miko rubbed her eyes and sighed.
Then collapsed back into her seat.
Her lackeys immediately went to her side.
They gave her a cup of water and a hot towel, they must have prepared it beforehand.
Then massaged her shoulders and arms.
They're treating her just like an idol.
"I'm sorry, that was everything. Was it of any help?"
The Miko looked dead tired.
Using her ability must be really exhausting.
I'm worn out just from watching her.
Reading all of Zenith's memories, and downloading them into her brain.
Then watching an entire impromptu play of Zenith's life.
With that much information being processed in an instant, of course it's tiring.
I could also use a shoulder massage.
"No, but thank you very much."
I still don't know a method to treat Zenith.
But, I was able to understand Zenith's feelings.
That alone makes my trip to Milis worthwhile.
"At least I know that she's happy.
And that she remembers Paul, and that he has passed away.
I understand her present condition now."
Zenith understands what's happening around her.
She has thoughts.
Although the Miko's tone made it seem as though she was in a dream-like state, there were no contradictions in facts like the number of children.
Or their personalities... But Lara was slightly different.
Lara is certainly attached to Zenith.
In Zenith's eyes, Lara might be trying to convey something with all her might... possibly.
"I was also able to learn something else."
"...?"
"She... I don't know how, but she seems to be able to read peoples thoughts."
Read thoughts?
"Because she's in such a state I may not be reading her memories correctly, but there's something I have to tell you..."
The Miko said so in a hushed voice.
Then gestured to me to lend her my ear.
Her lackeys behind her immediately covered their ears.
I brought my ear close to the Miko.
Then, she spoke in a very quiet voice.
"Zenith is a [Miko]."
At those words, I nodded slowly.
I suspected as much.
It was very likely she had some sort of curse.
"If this becomes known, it will cause an uproar, so I recommend you keep this hidden."
"Of course. I swear, as Orsted's subordinate, I will defend her."
"Truly, as one would expect."
Well, after letting her get kidnapped, I might be a hypocrite for saying that.
But I intend to live on such a feeling.
However, I have learned two things.
One, Zenith's ability.
The ability to read thoughts.
It's still not clear, but at least it doesn't seem like an ability that could lead directly to her death.[7]
That gives me a sense of relief.
The other thing, Gisu.
There's a discrepancy in something he said.
Come to think of it, that guy's movements have been strange throughout this entire mess.
Despite knowing the Latreia house is part of the Expulsion Faction, he approached them, then took Zenith out.
I'll have to question him thoroughly.
"Miko-sama, I am very glad that we were able to meet. There must be something I can do as thanks."
I still don't know how to cure Zenith.
But, she seems to be in a better state than I thought.