Bishop Heinemann lowered his gaze to the desk and began to speak slowly, almost hesitantly.
His demeanor resembled that of a repentant lamb.
“Originally, it is recorded that there was no conflict. However, several centuries ago, distortions began after Lord Arieist disappeared,” he said.
“And by distortions, you mean?”
When asked this, Bishop Heinemann hesitated slightly. However, having already resolved to speak, there was no option left for him to stay silent.
“Individuals began using religion to satisfy their own desires. Your Grace, do you know the one unchanging teaching of the Arieist faith?”
“I recall it being the reverence for humanity.”
When he responded, Bishop Heinemann nodded, saying, “That is correct.”
“However, the Cardinal of that time distorted this teaching. He spread the idea that ‘humanity’ did not include demi-human races.”
“I see… But why would they do such a thing?”
Perhaps they wanted to elevate humans above demi-humans. Or perhaps they sought to establish an external enemy to unite the religion after its founder’s death.
I glanced sideways to see if Arte was alright hearing this story. She seemed to be quietly listening, but there was a trace of anger in her eyes.
“The Cardinal allied with royalty and nobility. By excluding these groups, he brought vast wealth in the form of lands and slaves. The nobility gained a righteous cause, and the populace, who were devoted to the Arieist faith, eagerly participated. In return for granting this cause and mobilizing followers, the Cardinal received large sums of money.”
I see… Indeed, though religious institutions claim neutrality, that doesn’t necessarily mean they distance themselves from royalty or nobility. The matter of letters, for instance, clearly shows the close ties between religious powers and the aristocracy.
I have no intention of denying this arrangement. After all, I myself am maintaining a relationship with Bishop Heinemann. In this era, avoiding such ties can often be perilous.
“And that system continues to this day?”
“Yes, it does. However, there has been a recent movement toward reevaluation, albeit gradual.”
Oh? Could this be considered a form of self-purification, or perhaps a sign of change?
“And why is that?”
When I asked, Bishop Heinemann glanced briefly at Arte.
“It is because there has been an increase in beastfolk believers. Even among human followers, many find it strange that those who adhere to the same teachings are being persecuted.”
I see. The beastfolk, having spent long years as an enslaved race, likely joined the Arieist faith as a survival strategy. Over time, their initial resentment faded. Cynically speaking, one might say they were domesticated by those long years.
“However, this change is being halted by a particular individual.”
“And who might that be?”
Bishop Heinemann hesitated briefly but met my gaze with resolute eyes.
“It is none other than the descendant of the Cardinal who caused the original issue and the one who currently unites the entire Kingdom of Orland: Cardinal Bupiretta.”
