Chapter 20: Religious Threat

Chapter 20: Religious Threat

TL: Etude

A while later, Butler Philip led two clergymen into the drawing room.

Father Anderson was someone he had met before, but he had no recollection of Dean Leonard, an elderly man with a Mediterranean hairstyle, who gave off an exceedingly old-fashioned aura.

Paul asked with a smile, What brings you two to my place?

Count, you dared to confront the pirates and achieved victory in battle, protecting the Lords flock. We are here to express our gratitude, they said.

Ha, thats my duty. Is that all?

The clergymen exchanged glances, hesitating slightly. Finally, the older Dean Leonard spoke up, Count, we are here to investigate a matter. Could we ask your butler to leave us for a moment?

Alright, what matter requires the presence of two clergymen for investigation? Paul waved his hand, signaling Philip to leave the drawing room.

We have learned that you used something akin to sorcery in your battle against the pirates. Could you explain this?

Sorcery? What sorcery? Ive never heard of such a thing, Paul replied, puzzled.

Count, its those things that can explode or shoot projectiles causing injury or death.

Oh, you mean the latest firearms equipped by my military.

Can we see these items?

Paul flatly refused, Thats not possible. These are military secrets, not to be casually shown to others.

Seeing his refusal, Dean Leonards expression turned stern, Count, monitoring for signs of witchcraft in our jurisdiction is a natural duty of us clergymen. I advise you to cooperate with us. If its just ordinary weapons, we will clear your name. But if you refuse to cooperate, and the matter escalates to the Inquisition of the General Diocese, it will be troublesome. It wont be good for anyone. Those peoples temperament, as you must know, is quite severe. If they come down to investigate, it could harm the innocent.

Are you threatening a lord? This is outrageous! Paul was indignant, unable to believe they would resort to such tactics.

Father Anderson, looking worried, said, Please forgive us, Count. Although we are servants of the Lord, we are also your subjects. We wouldnt have insisted if it werent for our duty. There have been precedents where lords were seduced by evil sorcerers, bringing disaster to their entire domain. Not only would it harm you, but it could also affect the innocent populace.

He was genuinely concerned that the young count might stubbornly resist them to the end, potentially drawing the attention of the Inquisition, which would spell trouble.

This particular single-handed gun was custom-made for Paul, with exquisite patterns carved into the handle by a skilled woodworker, making it highly artistic.

Dean Leonard coughed to remind him, Anderson, return it to the Count.

Oh, sorry. Did you invent this, Count? Its truly ingenious, Anderson said, blushing slightly with admiration as he handed back the gun.

Heh, indeed I did. But remember, we agreed not to divulge the details of these weapons, Pauls irritation was somewhat eased by their admiration.

Of course, now that the situation is clear, we wont disturb you further, the clergymen stood to leave.

But then, Paul suddenly said, Wait, dont hurry off.

Sensing something in his tone, Dean Leonard and Father Anderson asked, Is there anything else you wish to instruct us, Count?

How did you two learn about this new weapon I invented? And how did you know I used it against the pirates?

Father Anderson stuttered, unable to respond.

Pauls tone grew colder, Should I perhaps report to the Northern Diocese? Maybe some people are masquerading as servants of God while engaging in espionage.

Injustice! Count, it was your soldiers in the confessional

Dean Leonard quickly interrupted, Anderson!!!

Father Anderson immediately clamped his mouth shut, remaining silent.

Dean Leonard, slightly embarrassed, said, Im sorry, Count. Keeping the confessions confidential is our duty. Please dont pursue this matter further.

Fine, lets leave it at that (as if), Paul agreed outwardly but was clearly not convinced.

We will take our leave now, the clergymen hurriedly departed.

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