Transcending Fate (Transmigrated to an Otome Game)

A Sunday at the Church

Sunday morning dawned with a sense of calm and purpose. Alaric was awakened by the soft knock of a servant, informing him that the Marquis wished to see him.

After a quick wash and donning a simple white shirt with frills and a neck brooch tie, paired with black trousers, Alaric made his way to his father’s study. His appearance was understated yet elegant, his delicate features and soft pink hair making him look like a charming kitten, causing many young maids to blush as he passed by.

Inside the study, the Marquis greeted him warmly. "Good morning, Alaric. I need you to go to the church today on my behalf. I have a matter to attend to at the palace, as His Majesty has summoned me."

Alaric nodded. "Of course, Father. What do you need me to take to the church?"

The Marquis handed him a small, ornately decorated box. "This is for the High Priest. Please make sure he receives it."

With a final nod, Alaric set out for the church. The journey there was serene, with the beauty of the empire’s scenery filling him with a sense of peace. Upon arriving at the church, he entered quietly, offering a prayer before seeking out someone who could help him deliver the box to the High Priest.

A young acolyte approached him, and after explaining his purpose, Alaric was led through the church to a more private area, towards the quarters of the High Priest. The building they approached was beautiful, with intricate designs and a peaceful aura.

The acolyte left him in front of a room, departing quietly. Alaric took a deep breath and entered, expecting to see the High Priest. Instead, he was met with the sight of Gabriel.

"Father Gabriel?" Alaric asked, his confusion evident.

Gabriel smiled gently. "The High Priest is not here today. Please, have a seat."

Alaric hesitated but then handed the box to Gabriel. "This is from my father, the Marquis."

Gabriel accepted the box with a nod and gestured to a chair. "Sit, Alaric. I’ve prepared some tea and cake."

Though Alaric had intended to leave quickly, the sight of the cake was too tempting. He sat down and took a bite, his eyes lighting up with delight. Gabriel watched him with a soft smile, noting how Alaric seemed to enjoy the small pleasures of life.

"Would you like to receive a blessing?" Gabriel asked, breaking the comfortable silence.

Alaric blinked, a bit taken aback. "A blessing?"

"Yes," Gabriel replied smoothly. "It will bring you peace and refresh your spirit. Please, close your eyes."

Alaric hesitated but then did as Gabriel asked, closing his eyes. Gabriel took in the sight of Alaric, waiting patiently with his eyes shut, looking so serene and trusting. A fleeting thought crossed Gabriel’s mind, imagining Alaric blindfolded, chained. and at his mercy. He quickly pushed the thought aside, but it left a lingering effect on him swirling something deep inside.

Placing his hands gently on Alaric’s head, Gabriel began the blessing. A soft, warm light enveloped Alaric, filling him with a refreshing energy. This was the part he liked the most—the feeling of peace and clarity that came with the blessing.

"Thank you, Father Gabriel," Alaric said, opening his eyes. "I feel much better."

"I'm glad," Gabriel replied, his usual kind smile back in place. They shared a few more pleasantries before Alaric excused himself, feeling a bit uneasy but grateful for the blessing.

As Alaric left the room, Gabriel’s smile slowly faded, replaced by a contemplative look. His thoughts were a whirlwind of confusion and desire. The part of him he usually kept repressed was starting to surface more frequently, and it troubled him.

Alaric, on the other hand, felt a shiver run down his spine as he exited the church.As if he stayed longer he might never come out.There had been something in Gabriel’s gaze that ....... something he couldn’t quite place.

On the way home, Alaric replayed the events in his mind. He had felt a strange mix of emotions in Gabriel’s company—comfort, unease, and something else he couldn’t quite identify.

He shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts. The scenery outside the carriage was calming, and he decided to focus on the beauty around him instead.

Back at the mansion. He pondered the changes in his life, the encounters with the gongs and Julian, and the inexplicable tension with Gabriel.

He resolved to navigate these complexities carefully, determined to live this new life fully and avoid the pitfalls of the game.

As he drifted off to sleep that night, Alaric couldn't help but wonder what the future held, and how he would manage the intricate relationships developing around him. He knew he had to stay cautious and true to himself, even as the world around him seemed to grow more complicated by the day.