Chapter 91

“Cardinal Bupiretta, huh… This is the first time I’ve heard of him.”

I keep track of nobility-related matters since they are influenced by the political situation, but since religion is neutral, I hadn’t investigated it that deeply.

“We don’t often show ourselves in the provinces, and given the current times, it’s difficult to have much influence there. It’s no wonder you don’t know, Your Grace.”

“I see… Is it impossible to remove him from the position of Cardinal?”

Upon asking this, Bishop Heinemann  looks flustered, as though startled.

“That’s a dangerous question, Your Grace.”

Well, that’s true. Even though the nobility and religion cooperate, it’s more of an alliance based on mutual interests, and both sides dislike interference in each other’s domains. In our case, religion has been involved in our domain, but that was a necessary decision due to a shortage of personnel and for governance. Therefore, trying to interfere with internal religious matters as a noble is indeed a perilous question.

“However, there is a way. If three of the six archbishops, excluding the individual in question, agree, the position of Cardinal can be changed. The problem is that four of them are supporters of Cardinal Bupiretta.”

Hmm… it’s surprising that the way to determine the leaders of the religion is through such a democratic vote.

Given how troublesome this situation is, one might even consider assassination, but that would be difficult.

And above all…

“Even if Cardinal Bupiretta is removed, it’s not such an easy problem to solve, is it?”

“Yes, that’s correct.”

The four archbishops are likely to be part of the faction persecuting beastmen, and even if Cardinal Bupiretta were removed, it wouldn’t drastically change the public’s mentality toward persecuting them. On the contrary, it’s highly likely that persecution would intensify, with accusations that the beastmen were behind the assassination.

I sigh.

“Really… this world doesn’t go the way you want, does it?”

Bishop Heinemann  smiles warmly, as usual.

“Indeed, you’re absolutely right. But we must not stop moving forward. It is the beauty of mankind to progress, even if only little by little.”

I see. So this connects to their doctrine of humanity’s beauty, which is almost singular in its teachings.

As expected from a religious figure, he’s skilled at speaking.

But, it’s good to know. Understanding the cause of the persecution against the beastmen and Bishop Heinemann ’s intentions is a significant discovery.

Though the road ahead is tough…

“I apologize for springing this on you. It must have been confusing, but I’m relieved to see that we have the same goal.”

I lean forward from my chair and extend my right hand. Bishop Heinemann , with a wry smile, shakes my hand.

“Yes… I was surprised by the suddenness of it, but I too feel reassured.”

Well, Bishop Heinemann  probably understands my general personality. But it’s understandable if he was worried, given the possibility that I might accelerate the persecution of beastmen. Even if I change values gradually, I still have to consider the reactions of the ruling class.

We release our handshake and each take a sip of tea.

The atmosphere had been tense, and my mouth feels dry.

“Still, this will be a long road… If we are to achieve it, Bishop Heinemann , you will have to become a cardinal yourself.”

Even if I rise to the position of cardinal, that won’t be the end. In fact, that’s when it truly begins. Changing people’s values takes time. Eliminating persecution is something that was difficult even in my previous life.

Bishop Heinemann  sets his cup on the table and gazes somewhere far away.

“Indeed… By that time, I suppose I’ll be calling you ‘Your Majesty,’ Duke?”

“That’s a dangerous question, Bishop Heinemann .”

Just as it’s dangerous for the nobility to meddle in religious matters, it’s equally dangerous for religion to interfere in the affairs of the nobility. It feels almost like a retaliation.

I set my cup back on the table and shrug my shoulders.

“I think even being a duke is beyond me.”

“That’s exactly why,” says Bishop Heinemann , his words making me pause.

“Because you feel it’s beyond you, you don’t act arrogantly, and instead, you strive. That is why the people and the knights trust you, Your Grace, and wish to support you. I can understand why the beastmen follow you as well.”

At that point, Bishop Heinemann  glances at Arte.

Arte nods in agreement.

“And I myself will continue to cooperate with you, Your Grace.”

“Thank you… Bishop Heinemann . I’ll rely on you from now on as well.”

“Of course. Without a doubt.”