Chapter 500
Under Tannian’s guidance, we arrived at the Pope’s office, which turned out to be more modest than I expected. In fact, it was quite small and cozy, to put it objectively.
Thanks to that, I immediately felt the cultural difference upon entering the Holy Kingdom. While secular monarchs and nobles flaunt their power through large, extravagant castles, the Pope—who is considered equal to the Emperor—was residing in what could generously be called a wealthy commoner’s office.
‘It doesn’t seem like it’s just about simplicity.’
If the current Pope has a humble personality, then sure, I could see why he’d choose to dwell in such a tiny space. But I heard this office has been used by previous Popes, who have their own historical weight. This is more about tradition than personal preference.
‘Isn’t there some need for ostentation?’
Suddenly I thought about it. Unlike the blue bloods who inherit everything, the Pope and the Cardinals are chosen based on strict merit. They don’t need to flaunt their status because everyone is aware of their nobility, so a small, unassuming office might not matter.
That thought actually filled me with a sense of wonder. There’s something grand about humility that comes from confidence. Much cooler than overdoing it with decorations, huh?
“Ah, precious guests have arrived.”
Anyway, as we came in, the Pope rose from his seat, approaching us with a gentle smile.
“If it were up to me, I’d have welcomed you at the port, but I’ve been quite busy lately. So, I apologize for the impolite reception of receiving the Blessed while sitting.”
“Your Holiness, the whole continent knows of your many duties, so how can you say such things? Just seeing you is an honor.”
I steadied my trembling smile while trying to respond lightly.
Of course, that was probably a joke, but if the Pope really had gone out to the port, that would have been the real rudeness. Overdoing formalities can tire the spirit…
“Indeed, the Blessed has a heart as warm as the sun. It’s as if you live your life according to the Lord’s teachings.”
“You flatter me.”
I awkwardly laughed along with the Pope’s chuckle.
‘The last time I went to church? Forget it.’
Of course, that was probably a customary compliment he didn’t mean, so I didn’t drag the mood down by pointing that out. What matters right now is that the Pope is in front of me and Trixy—it’s all about that face-off.
“It’s been a while since I’ve seen you, sister. This is our first meeting since the inauguration, isn’t it?”
“It’s already been a year, hasn’t it? I’m glad to see Your Holiness doing well.”
After a brief exchange, the Pope turned his gaze to Trixy and bowed politely.
‘A bow, huh.’
I casually glanced at Trixy, who returned a business-like smile at the Pope’s slight nod.
Definitely something is going on here. While this could simply be a show of respect towards an elder and a leader in the magical world, considering the Pope’s rank, it falls into the ‘not really necessary’ category of etiquette. Yet, if he bowed first, it suggests he has some regrets to express.
“Now, you two, I’ll be taking care of you, so Tannian, you’re free to return now. Thank you for your hard work.”
“Yes, Your Holiness.”
At the Pope’s words, Tannian politely bowed and withdrew.
“Oh! I’ve kept you precious guests standing for too long. Please, make yourselves comfortable.”
And the Pope cheerfully gestured for us to take a seat.
His eyes were shining brightly.
“Thank you, Your Holiness.”
I felt it in my bones. I was sure we’d hear the real reason the Pope invited us once Tannian led the way with all that grandeur.
…And just like that, he’s getting straight to the main point after meeting us? I appreciate the straightforwardness but also find it somewhat perplexing. Isn’t it customary to have a subtle probing beforehand before getting to the meat? I’ve seldom seen older individuals in high positions stray from the usual protocols.
‘The Holy Kingdom is bound to be in a tight spot.’
I could somewhat sense the Holy Kingdom’s struggles through this unconventional approach. When a leader with both experience and ability strays from norm, it puts tremendous pressure on their subordinates.
All I could do was offer my condolences to the priests of the Holy Kingdom.
*
As expected, the council was off to a chaotic start.
‘Should have seen this coming.’
Looking down from my left, I met the gaze of the head of the Faith Doctrine Department, who also made a bow in my direction.
Talk about being straightforward and difficult to deal with. The moment the council began, conservative Cardinals spewed their combative statements, resulting in an unpredictable uproar. We’d be mired in endless arguments for days without any productive discussions.
The likely goal of the head of the Faith Doctrine Department was to stir up resistance among the neutral Cardinals regarding the reform discussions. As harsh words and shouts exchanged, it became inevitable for the neutrals to get cold feet about even being present.
‘Can’t stop the council? Then let’s just destabilize it from within.’
Simple but effective. The conservative Cardinals indeed have a legitimate right to speak. As long as that right isn’t restricted, there’s no stopping the head’s scheme.
But it was expected. That meant I also had a plan prepped.
“Excuse me. May I have a word?”
Right on cue, I raised my hand and asked for the floor.
“Of course. The Blessed is our invited guest, so please speak freely.”
Granting me the opportunity set the hot-headed Cardinals to silence, realizing how rude it would be to interrupt someone like me—a witness, no less, to the resurrection of the World Tree.
“I came here as a witness of the World Tree’s revival, and yet the current discussions seem entirely unrelated to that.”
At my words, the expression of the head of the Faith Doctrine Department wavered slightly.
In contrast, our expressions remained calm.
Now, we could steer the council in our direction.
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