Chapter 67

Before we set off, we were suddenly attacked by a swarm of flying dragons, but after that, the journey to Misra went smoothly.

It was so smooth that I felt a bit let down.

I was a little nervous, thinking that we might be attacked by goblins or other vicious monsters along the way, but it turned out to be a groundless worry.

Ines's carriage sped down the road at an astonishing pace.

The carriage, which was specially made for this day, apparently used special harnesses and magical devices imported from the Magic Imperial Kingdom, and was much faster than any carriage I had ridden before.

It was so fast that even the monsters couldn't catch up.

As I looked out at the scenery with Roro, we arrived at the city of Misra before we knew it. There were a few other towns along the way, but we passed right through them.

I would have liked to take a more leisurely look at the scenery from the carriage, but the departure was delayed due to the large hole in the ground caused by the intense lightning when the magic instructor defeated the flying dragons, and the cobblestone pavement was badly damaged and extremely muddy from the heavy rain, so it couldn't be helped.

Still, we were able to see the picturesque fields spread out over the tranquil plains and vast plains, and that was enough to say the least.

The carriage carrying us slowed down as it entered the city of Misra, and I was finally able to look around properly, so I took the opportunity to gaze out the window.

"This is the capital of Misra?"

The weather was good today, and a peaceful scene spread throughout the city.

Occasionally, the leaves of the trees bathed in sunlight would sway, and I could see children playing at the water fountains scattered around.

Indeed, the impression or atmosphere of the city as a whole was completely different from that of the Kingdom of Creus.

As a country centered on religion, Misra had churches scattered among the stone buildings.

There were also many strange and unfamiliar things, and each time I asked, "What is that?" Lean would patiently explain them to me.

According to Lean, the carriage we were riding was on the largest street in the city, and ahead of us, a particularly large building could be seen. It was a grand and luxurious building that could be seen even from outside the city.

"Is that the 'Cathedral' or something?"

"Yes, what you see there is the 'Cathedral of Misra'—commonly known as the 'Cathedral.' It is the most important place that symbolizes the politics and religion of this country."

The fact that the religious facilities are at the center of the city is a matter of national character, I suppose.

As the most important place, it certainly has a unique and special feel to it.

It is a mountain-like building that can be seen from outside the city, and even from a distance, the delicate decorations can be seen.

It must have been made with great care.

Just from that, you can tell that it is something that is highly valued in this country.

"Wow, this place is amazing."

Indeed, it's worth traveling to see.

I'm really glad I came here.

The 'Cathedral' building, which I had heard was magnificent and was looking forward to, was even more impressive than I had imagined.

Every time I looked out the carriage window at the city, I was increasingly impressed.

It's really a beautiful city.

Wherever you look, there isn't a single piece of trash.

Not only that, the city itself is richly decorated, and it seems like a work of art.

"Really, it's a beautiful city."

Just being able to see this makes the trip worthwhile.

"Yes... I agree. I think this is a very beautiful city.

The capital of Misra is also known as the 'Holy City,' and many Misra believers revere the city itself as a holy place. I think that's how much the city is cherished."

"Yeah, I can understand that... but it's awfully quiet, isn't it?

In the middle of the city's main street, there are a lot of people, but they don't seem to be talking much. I don't know much about the other cities in the capital, but it feels strange."

I can sense people around, and I can see people walking on the main street, but it feels too quiet.

"...Yes, I think you're right.

This city has always been like this.

I can't say it too loudly, but—

—In this city, everything is always being listened to, even trivial conversations."

Lean activated some skill and lowered his voice.

At the same time, the area around the carriage seat was covered by a transparent membrane-like thing, and I felt the surrounding sounds being blocked. It was probably the same "Concealment" I had seen before.

"...Being listened to?"

"Yes. I don't know exactly how it's done, but in Misra, specialized clergy use 'Barrier' technology to gather information from all over.

I've heard that especially in terms of 'sound,' they can collect it over a wide area and with high precision.

It's not widely publicized, but most citizens know about it.

...So, the people here don't say unnecessary things.

I stayed in this city for a few years as a student, and it was a bit suffocating."

"...That does sound difficult.

I don't think it's something that would cause trouble to have everyday conversations listened to, but it doesn't feel good.

If I were to live here for a long time, I think the kingdom would be more comfortable."

"...I think so too.

But the 'Barrier' for information collection is carried out by the Pope's order in Misra, and most people see it as necessary for maintaining public order. The people of this city are devout believers of the 'Church of Misra' and revere the Pope greatly."

"I see, so this Pope is highly revered."

"Yes. The city is so magnificent and beautiful because the believers make enthusiastic donations and contributions.

...So, if you say something bad about the Pope, it can be a big problem.

Even if you just mention it as a joke, it's said that a large number of inquisitors might visit you in the middle of the night. It's a rare occurrence in the capital, but the Misra believers in the country are especially devout."

"...I don't really understand what the 'Church of Misra' is... What is it?"

"I'm not from the faith, so I'm not very knowledgeable, but—The so-called Church of Misra, officially known as the 'Holy Church of Misra,' is considered a relatively new religion that started about three hundred years ago. The founder is Pope Astira—meaning the current Pope. The Church of Misra is centered around her, and she has been the religious and political leader from the founding of the country to the present. The Church of Misra cannot be discussed without mentioning her, Astira."

"...Wait a minute. The Pope from back then is still alive...?"

"Yes. Astira is said to be a 'Half-Elf' with the blood of the legendary race 'Elves,' and she has an exceptionally long lifespan. It is said that she is over four hundred years old... However, prying into her age is considered impolite, and the information is very limited because the Misra believers revere the Pope as sacred. At the very least, according to official records, she is over three hundred years old."

"......I see......

......In other words......

......She lives for a very long time......?"

"Yes, and this country—the 'Holy Church of Misra'—is said to have been founded by Astira after receiving a divine message from 'Holy Misra' and taking a long time to establish it.

The Church of Misra has spread its teachings throughout the continent, and through the establishment of orphanages to raise orphans and acts of charity for the poor, the Pope has a significant influence not only within the country but also in other countries... However, there are also not-so-good rumors about these activities."

"...Not-so-good rumors?"

"Yes. However, this topic involves the 'Demonic Race,' which is taboo, and there are some difficult circumstances that make it hard to discuss publicly—"

Just as Lean was about to say something, Ines, who was driving the carriage, turned around and called out to Lean.

"——Mr. Linneburg. The carriage will soon enter the Cathedral area.

I think it would be best to be cautious."

"Thank you, Ines.

Yes... Mr. Noal, I'm sorry, but can we stop here for now? From here on, it's a bit sensitive, so we need to keep our conversation to a minimum."

"Sure."

As I replied, Lean deactivated the skill, and the feeling of "Concealment" disappeared.

Looking ahead, I realized that the carriage we were riding was getting quite close to the massive 'Cathedral.'

Indeed, it looks even bigger up close.

"...By the way, we're going to the 'Coming of Age Ceremony' held in that huge cathedral, right?

I know it's a bit late to ask, but... what am I supposed to do there...?"

When I casually asked about my role, Lean looked startled.

"S-Sorry...!

I was so focused on our preparations that I didn't explain it to you.

We will be guided to the guest accommodation inside the cathedral. We will spend the night there, and the next day, Roro and I are scheduled to attend a luncheon dance and a dinner banquet in the afternoon. There, we will meet Pope Astira and her son, Prince Tylence, and you will be present at those events."

...I see.

It seems I just need to be there...

But... he mentioned something that caught my attention...

"...Hold on...?

...The Pope... you mean the old woman who has lived for hundreds of years...?

I'm going to meet such an important person?

...Is it really okay for me to go there?"

It feels out of place... and I wasn't mentally prepared at all.

"Yes, of course.

You will be there as my 'guardian attendant,' so you will be by my side... However, the role of 'attendant' is just a pretext to bring you here. You are free to act on your own judgment.

If any unforeseen events occur, I want you to make the decisions.

...You will likely be more aware of potential dangers."

...Dangers, huh...

I had heard that the Coming of Age Ceremony would be dangerous, so I had prepared myself to some extent... but hearing it again makes it sound very ominous.

"...I see...

So, the Coming of Age Ceremony we're going to is quite dangerous...?

...I hope it's not like a sword suddenly flying at me from behind...?"

"...To be honest, I don't know what will happen. I'm sorry for not telling you this sooner."

"No, I had heard some of it, and it's enough to know that much.

I can't remember all the details anyway.

...Well, I'm sure it will be fine."

Even though it's said to be dangerous, it's still an event.

And it's an event in such a magnificent city.

I'm curious to see what it will be like.

It would be a waste not to enjoy it.

"—To be honest, I'm a bit looking forward to it."

"—Yes, I'm counting on you."

Lean, who had been looking gloomy, smiled, and seeing that smile, I felt a bit more relaxed.

Still, I have some lingering concerns.

I'm heading to a place that is out of the ordinary.

I didn't fully understand everything Lean explained, but the Pope is a highly respected figure in this country, and an irreplaceably important person.

—A respected figure who has lived for hundreds of years and built this wonderful city from scratch.

I'm going to meet such a person.

Thinking about it, I'm a bit nervous.

"I have to be careful not to do anything that might shock them and shorten my lifespan."