The Eminence in Shadow: The Dark Swordsman

Chapter 45: To Be Or To Pretend To Be

Christina Hope strolled casually in the morning, a soft smile playing on her lips. The cool, fresh air of the early hours embraced her as she walked, the sunlight gently filtering through the trees lining the path. Her footsteps were light and unhurried, matching her serene demeanour. After a pleasant walk, she arrived at Crystal Chalet, its charming facade greeting her warmly.

Christina approached the entrance of Crystal Chalet, taking a moment to admire its charming facade before stepping inside.

She walked across the polished floor towards the reception desk, her soft smile never wavering.

Behind the desk stood a young woman, her feline ears twitching slightly as she noticed Christina approaching. The receptionist's eyes, a striking shade of green, lit up with a welcoming expression.

"Good morning," Christina greeted warmly, her voice as gentle as her demeanour.

"Good morning," the receptionist replied, her voice friendly and pleasant. "Welcome to Crystal Chalet. How can I assist you today?"

Christina's soft smile widened slightly as she responded, "I'm a classmate and friend of Kirito Kuroha. I wish to meet with him."

The receptionist's expression brightened even more. "A friend of Master Kirito is always welcome," she said warmly. "Please wait a moment."

Before the receptionist could move, Rem appeared, her presence calm and commanding.

Rem welcomed Christina with a respectful nod, her demeanour poised and gracious. "Welcome, Christina Hope. It's a pleasure to meet you in person. Kirito has spoken highly of you."

Rem's expression softened slightly as she continued, "Unfortunately, Kirito is currently occupied with important tasks and won't be available to meet with you right away."

Christina's disappointment flickered briefly across her face, though she maintained her composure. "I understand he's busy. I won't take much of his time, I promise."

Rem remained composed, her ears twitching once more. "I'm sorry, Christina, but that's not possible," she explained gently.

Just then, Rem let out a small, delicate sneeze, surprising both herself and Christina.

"Bless you," Christina said gently, offering a warm acknowledgement.

"I just wanted to talk to Kirito about some unfinished projects we have at school," She continued, her tone earnest. "They're of great importance, and I believe his insights would be invaluable."

Rem considered Christina's words thoughtfully, her expression briefly contemplative. "Projects of great importance," she echoed softly, almost to herself.

After a moment's pause, Rem nodded decisively. "Very well," she said, her voice clear and composed. "I will contact Kirito. But please make it brief."

As Rem turned to call Kirito, she let out another small sneeze, surprising Christina and the receptionist once more.

Christina waited patiently at the Crystal Chalet's reception, the gentle smile on her face faltering slightly as minutes stretched into what felt like aeons.

Just as she was starting to tap her foot in mild frustration, Kirito stumbled in, hair dishevelled and beads of sweat decorating his forehead. He looked like he had just run a marathon through a jungle of bureaucracy.

"Kirito!" Christina exclaimed, her surprise evident. "You look... well, not quite ready for a reunion, huh?"

Kirito blinked, his eyes wide and slightly unfocused. He grinned sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Oh, hey Christina! Yeah, just... you know, a bit of a hectic morning. Glad you're here though!"