第１７８８堀：教会の名は (Part1)
Chapter 1788: The Name of the Church
Side: Kagura
Since Yuki had suggested changing locations, I had already prepared an alternative. Honestly, it’s exhausting to hold a long conversation in such a rugged, austere place. Though, I suppose the intention behind it was to ease the other party’s tension...
"Come to think of it, weren't you surprised when you heard that Kagura was a person of high standing?"
"No, I had suspected she was connected to the nobility. Her every movement was simply too refined."
As he said this, all eyes turned toward me. No matter how hard I try, I suppose I cannot hide the etiquette and manners drilled into me as a noble.
"Um, should I take that as a compliment?"
"Why not? It just goes to show that everything you’ve been through wasn't in vain."
"Ahaha, I suppose so. My subordinates were quite pleased to be examined by Lady Kagura."
Yes, I am well aware of that. While I had selected a capable team to work alongside me, it is only natural that people would prefer to be treated by a woman rather than a man.
"I see that things are no different on your side."
"Indeed. When there is a beautiful flower present, wounds seem to heal all the faster."
"Pardon the interruption. This is the room we have prepared for you."
As I opened the door, a refined, elegant space revealed itself. I had arranged the layout to match the guest suites of Oue.
"It is magnificent. I could never manage such a thing. My own territory is barely scraping by year after year."
"Territorial management is never easy. Please, have a seat."
Prompted by Yuki, we took our seats on the sofa as Baron Siana sat down. Shortly after, Hovis, who had been waiting in the wings, approached us.
"What would you like to drink?"
"Let's see. Baron Siana, what would you prefer? Do you have a favorite?"
"I shouldn't trouble you, though I suspect saying that would only cause you further concern. Very well. Might I have some of that coffee you serve in your living quarters? I’ve grown quite fond of its aroma."
"Understood. Black?"
"Yes, black. While I don't mind it mixed, I prefer it black above all else."
Indeed. Yuki has even installed drink dispensers of that sort to make life easier for the prisoners. It’s a strange thought—what kind of prisoners are these?—but since they can quench their own thirst, it saves us the trouble, so I suppose it’s fine.
Though they were surprised at first, once we taught them how to use the machines, they began to enjoy them. Naturally, there were breakdowns and empty supplies, but we simply handled the maintenance, and they eventually grew accustomed to it. Well, it might sound strange coming from us, but people truly are creatures of habit.
While I was lost in such thoughts, Hovis returned with the requested drinks.
"Thank you."
"Thank you very much."
We took a moment to moisten our throats before resuming the conversation.
"Now, where were we?"
"We were discussing the current war. I believe you had some questions as well, Yuki-sama?"
"Ah, that’s right. I wanted to ask about the intentions of those above—in this case, the Church. Might I ask the name of that Church?"
"Oh? You aren't aware?"
"Indeed. The messenger who visited Oue delivered a surrender demand, launched an attack, and then took his own life on the spot. Oue is the southernmost nation, and we have been quite distant from the north. The Church seems to despise demi-humans, making it difficult to investigate."
"I see. In that case, it would indeed be difficult to find out. We, too, knew nothing of the south; I suppose we are in the same boat."
"Likely so. Unless a threat reaches their doorstep, people rarely go out of their way to intervene."
It is true. We only learned that the Haire Church had begun to spiral out of control after the trouble had already started; we hadn't noticed the strange movements beforehand. It is difficult for outsiders to interfere with the internal affairs of other nations or factions.
"Ah, my apologies. You asked for the name of the Church. The Church that stands above us and has spearheaded this war is..."
Even though he didn't pause for dramatic effect, it felt as though he were building suspense. After all, this could potentially escalate into the largest war yet. It was no wonder he felt tense.
"The Clearstream Church. 'To bring forth a clear stream, and to provide salvation and grace to the people.' That is the doctrine under which it was founded in the northern countries—well, it is a new church, established within the last fifty years or so."
"Is fifty years considered 'new' by your standards?"
"Yes. You see, if you trace its origins, there was a 'Clear Church' from which this one supposedly split. They simply added a word to the name. That original Clear Church is said to be three hundred years old. An elf master who lived in my territory taught me that."
"Lived in your territory?"
"The Clearstream Church began advocating for the expulsion of demi-humans, and perhaps sensing the danger, she left of her own accord. I did not hear where she went, but... likely..."
I see. There is a high probability she is in Oue. That master is someone worth searching for.
"Might I ask the name of that elf?"
"Of course. Her name is Amea. She is my mentor in life. I would be happy if her safety could be confirmed."
Upon hearing the name, Yuki glanced at Orelia, who was standing by, and she immediately began making arrangements. Yes, if Amea-dono is found in Oue, there is a high possibility we can gather a wealth of information regarding the north.
"Understood. As soon as she is found, we will inform Baron Siana. Now, back to the topic: what was the doctrine of the original Clear Church?"
"Ah, the Clear Church’s doctrine was to purge monsters—or rather, that by defeating monsters, one creates a pure land. It was a literal doctrine, and I heard it was formed by people who had lost their homes to monsters. It goes without saying, but the Church itself actively assisted in defeating monsters and even carried out exterminations, earning them the support of many nations."
That explains why they were supported. In the Haiden region where I was born, there were no monsters that attacked humans thanks to Haire-sama, but after following Yuki into the outside world, I learned of the threat they pose. They truly are creatures that harm humanity.
However, I also know that their materials are excellent and that they possess their own unique ecosystems. I am not defending monsters, but they attack for a reason; their existence itself is not inherently evil. As proof, it is common practice in this world to tame monsters.