Ch.370Event (3)

The event that began at Musk Grid’s suggestion yielded tremendous results, just as expected.

Though Sabre had officially declared a “holy war,” the demon worshippers armed with meticulous planning were difficult to handle.

Moreover, they didn’t hesitate to commit suicide bombings, making it risky to act even when information was obtained. Meanwhile, the demon worshippers gained time to escape.

But as Musk had said, if there was a reward worth risking one’s life for, nothing else mattered. There were plenty of people who valued honor above their own lives.

Initially, public opinion wasn’t entirely positive. As repeatedly mentioned, this event required risking one’s life.

People questioned whether a private audience with me was truly worth risking one’s life, arguing that using human lives for an event was inappropriate.

[Entire village in the clutches of demon worshippers……]

[Horrific customs continued under the name of tradition.]

[Each church has dispatched inquisitors to the village, and the children who suffered torture and emotional abuse are now under the church’s protection……]

However, public sentiment changed completely after news spread that entire villages had fallen to demon worship, and worse, children were being brainwashed and tortured.

Throughout history, children have always been protected. Those who harm children never receive positive recognition.

Even criminals treat such people as trash, which says it all. So when such news broke, it naturally came as a shock.

[Villages isolated from surrounding communities are most vulnerable.]

[Rural, underdeveloped areas are the prey demon worshippers target.]

In this world, information flows only through newspapers. Therefore, information travels slowly or is completely cut off in remote areas.

This has led to the flourishing of human trafficking in some places, with victims mostly sold to mines or brothels.

In some cases, lords and human traffickers conspire to sell villagers. Good public security exists only in capitals or major cities.

Even without demon worshippers’ involvement, things are already this bad, so it’s not surprising that entire villages fall prey.

[The lord of Lirs region, Baron Berk, has been implicated in human trafficking…… Though he vehemently denies it, villagers testify that he ignored missing person reports……]

[Villages not officially included in domains are most at risk. Horrific facts unknown even to the upper echelons.]

[Slave traders who bribed nobles. Mine workers treated like livestock have been rescued…… Even they were devoted followers of demon worship.]

The event’s impact went beyond saving a single village. People searched everywhere as if hunting for treasure.

Thanks to this, numerous lords’ corruption and criminal activities were exposed, and people treated like livestock were rescued.

And in the process, shocking incidents began to surface one after another.

While an entire village of demon worshippers was shocking enough, even more disturbing cases emerged.

[Among the rescued slaves were not just humans but beastkin, dwarves, and even elves. Their tendons were cut, and they were prevented from using mana.]

[Elves treated as “premium goods.” Most were used as sex slaves. They were also used as alchemical materials and sacrifices for demon summoning……]

[Dwarves were used for labor, while beastkin were for those with unique sexual preferences……]

It was revealed that even elves, embodiments of beauty chosen by the gods, were being exploited by demon worshippers.

Though elves are strong, they too are helpless when trapped.

Moreover, their characteristic arrogance often leads to carelessness, which demon worshippers exploit to kidnap them.

Additionally, with hardline demons among the demon worshippers, kidnapping lone elves was no difficult task.

[The perpetrator who targeted elves in collusion with demon worshippers is currently being sought…… However, due to the extensive distribution network, it will take time.]

[Alfheim’s fury. Search parties have been dispatched to focus on capturing the perpetrators.]

[Alfheim has urged its citizens traveling alone to be cautious and emphasized not to be overconfident in their strength……]

Naturally, Alfheim was in an uproar. Their citizens were not only sold as slaves in foreign lands but also used as “materials,” so their anger was justified.

During the racial war, some elves were captured and treated as slaves, but that was during wartime and somewhat understandable.

But now is far from a time of war. Beyond mere complaints, this causes major diplomatic issues.

Though Helium is currently rising, Alfheim remains a hegemonic power. This has been true even before Arwen Elidia became involved with Issac Dukar Mayshall.

It’s like the United States expressing outrage in terms of past lives, so other countries naturally become cautious.

Especially the Empire of Minerva, where the incidents occurred, had to be most careful.

As the country with the largest territory, all sorts of bizarre incidents were occurring, and now with the elf slavery scandal, they were receiving harsh criticism.

This situation was already dizzying, but the problem didn’t end there.

If even elves were victimized, what about “demons”? Everyone knew that hardline demons were part of the demon worshippers.

[Demons were either harming neighboring countries through “demonization,” or being treated as materials or sacrifices.]

[Slave traders testified that using demons as sex slaves made them useless as they would become actual demons……]

[Fortunately, since Helium was isolated until a few years ago, there were almost no victims. However, occasional demonization incidents were revealed to be related to demon worshippers.]

The demonization incidents that contributed to the rock-bottom reputation of demons before the publication of Biography of Xenon.

Particularly in the Empire of Minerva, Princess Rina Urmi Christine was caught up in such an incident, causing significant repercussions.

However, evidence was emerging that most of these incidents were carried out by demon worshippers.

Already busy purging high-ranking officials colluding with demon worshippers, Helium couldn’t help but be angry at this situation.

[How far does the reach of demon worshippers extend?]

[We have been far too complacent. The reality is much more serious than depicted in Biography of Xenon.]

[A holy war in the true sense has begun.]

[The Empire of Minerva, with its vast territory, has been granted authority to search in agreement with neighboring countries……]

With public opinion turning so negative, the Empire of Minerva decided to consult with neighboring countries.

Normally, deploying foreign troops would require complex procedures, but as the situation spiraled out of control, all restrictions were lifted.

Even the Empire of Minerva had limitations in completely eradicating the problem due to its vast territory.

Fortunately, it was discovered now; had a little more time passed, they would have been completely consumed by demon worshippers.

If the Kingdom of Teres was in crisis before, now the Empire of Minerva faced a crisis.

“You look exhausted.”

“……I feel like I’m dying.”

And the result was sitting before my eyes. I looked at Rina, who had developed dark circles in just a few days.

She seemed to have struggled quite a bit since the event began; dark circles had formed under her eyes, and her once supple skin had deteriorated slightly.

At least her hair, which flowed like spun gold, remained intact, but her accumulated fatigue was evident at a glance.

“I don’t wanna do this. I wanna sleep. Am I gonna die?”

Just then, a mischievous girl’s voice reached my ears. The owner of that voice was currently in my arms.

With a sprout on her head and translucent wings on her back. Red hair like mine and golden eyes.

The one and only angel, Ariel, had read Rina’s inner thoughts and voiced them.

“……Who is that child? She looks like you, but she has a sprout on her head and wings.”

“Would you believe me if I explained?”

“I’d believe you even if you said you came from the future? Anyway, is what I’m thinking correct?”

“Yes. I’m Angel Ariel.”

Ariel nodded in response to Rina’s question and answered for me.

She looked so adorable and cute that I hugged her tightly. When I embraced her, Ariel burst into laughter.

Seeing us, Rina stared with her tired eyes and let out a hollow laugh.

“Now I’m even seeing angels. You really are something.”

“You must have many questions, don’t you?”

“Later. I have too much to think about right now. Yawn……”

Truly exhausted, Rina yawned widely in front of me. Even her yawning was graceful.

It seems such behavior was ingrained in her. I looked down at Ariel while waiting for Rina to gather herself.

Ariel was staring intently at Rina, whom she was seeing for the first time. Suddenly, I remembered returning to the dormitory.

‘It’s been a while since Father laughed so freely.’

I couldn’t help but laugh when I saw my father carrying Ariel around everywhere.

He already truly loved our family, and now with an adorable and lovable granddaughter, he must be overflowing with joy.

Also, since Marie Housen Reckyless had already explained everything, I didn’t need to say anything more. All that remained was returning to normal daily life.

“Ariel?”

“Yes?”

“What will you call Rina from now on?”

“Big sister.”

Just as I expected. I nodded at her referring to Rina as “big sister.”

For reference, she called Adelia Cross “mom” and Kate Louise Angelica “big sister.” And now she called Rina “big sister.”

This confirmed it. Ariel calls women connected to me “mom,” and if not, she calls them “big sister.”

‘The only one left is Lilly…’

Let’s think about that slowly. Unlike Ariel, Lilly is a newborn. A newborn who can’t even crawl, let alone walk.

At least she could roll over. When she rolled over in the mansion, struggling, she was so cute I nearly fainted.

Lilly and Ariel. They are like unexpected gifts to our family.

I looked ahead, imagining their growth in the future.

I noticed Rina, who was drinking tea to somehow fight off drowsiness, with her eyes half-closed from fatigue.

“Rina.”

“……Yes?”

“If you’re too tired, you can go back.”

Currently, the Empire of Minerva is facing perhaps its greatest crisis since its founding.

The Papal Kingdom of Sabre nearly hit rock bottom with corrupt Cardinals but was pulled up by Kate’s hard carry; the Empire has no such luck.

They’re on the verge of being labeled as a haven for demon worshippers. Vast territory symbolizes national power, but if it can’t be managed, it’s just an empty shell.

Fortunately, the Empire of Minerva had been controlling it with powerful military force, but this is not just a matter between countries but a threat to the entire world.

“No, it’s fine. I also have news that I must deliver to you.”

“What news?”

“His Majesty wishes to meet with you.”

“……?”

I blinked at her casual statement. But for Rina, there is only one “His Majesty.”

The person with the highest authority in the Empire of Minerva, the Emperor. That Emperor wants to meet me.

It was such a sudden proposal that I was gathering my thoughts when Ariel, in my arms, looked up at me and asked.

“Daddy, what’s an Emperor?”

“Hm? Emperor?”

“Yes.”

“Well…… it’s difficult to explain, but the most…… no, the most remarkable person in the country. Everything related to the country requires the Emperor’s permission.”

“Even Daddy?”

“Uh……”

I didn’t answer immediately and glanced at Rina. If she weren’t here, I would have answered right away, but it felt awkward with her present.

She knows that my authority has already surpassed the Emperor’s. However, voicing that would be disrespectful.

Rina, sensing my awkwardness, smiled gently and answered. More precisely, she answered Ariel, not me.

“Your name is Ariel, right?”

“Yes!”

“Your daddy is truly remarkable. Only the gods are more remarkable than your daddy.”

“Wow…… Really?”

“Of course.”

At Rina’s answer, Ariel’s eyes looking at me became sparkling. I could only give an embarrassed smile in response.

She probably doesn’t know what a country is yet, but she understood that it was remarkable. I’m glad it went well.

“Ahem. Ahem. So His Majesty wants to see me?”

“Yes. Just to be clear, this is a request, not an order. If you refuse, that’s the end of it.”

“What does he want to meet for?”

Honestly, there’s not much to do meeting the Emperor. We’ll probably just have a meal with exquisite dishes and some light conversation.

Of course, he’ll try to persuade me in between. And what will be used for that persuasion is……

“You already know, don’t you?”

“Political marriage?”

“That’s right.”

As expected. I nodded as I watched Rina calmly drinking her tea.

As mentioned before, from the Empire of Minerva’s perspective, they would request a political marriage to keep me.

Although I’m engaged to the Reckyless ducal family, they would take measures to bind me more securely.

Moreover, news of my connection with Arwen is gradually spreading, and my relationship with Cecilly Drat Isillia Vin will soon be announced.

Therefore, the imperial court must make many efforts to connect me and Rina.

“It seems a bit hasty? Shouldn’t this happen after my relationship with Cecilly is announced or after I marry Marie?”

“I’d like that too, but since the event started, incidents have been occurring one after another. Due to demon worshippers deeply infiltrating the Empire, citizens are not only anxious but also distrustful of us. Recently, there was even a case of a lord selling his people to demon worshippers.”

“So things are shaky.”

Rina nodded in response to my concise statement. I fell into thought for a moment.

Since the event began, the eradication of demon worshippers has accelerated. However, as it accelerated, horrific atrocities buried beneath the surface began to emerge.

These atrocities can’t be covered up, not only because of the speed but also because I’m the one who initiated the event.

From the Empire’s perspective, since they can’t stop the event, it would be wise to strengthen internal discipline.

“Of course, we’re not suggesting immediate marriage. That might alienate Marie. It’s just about creating public opinion.”

“That’s fine. When?”

“You’ll accept?”

“No reason not to. Just remember that if an incident occurs during the event, it might be postponed.”

Though the event started with good intentions, accidents could happen. Especially preventing innocent casualties is absolutely necessary.

However, demon worshippers might cleverly exploit this, so I won’t cancel it outright.

Hearing my answer, Rina’s expression brightened as she expressed her gratitude.

“Thank you. That’s a relief. Again, it’s not about immediate marriage, so there’s no need to worry.”

“So it’s confirmed that you and I will marry?”

“In a way, yes.”

“Then we’ll also do that?”

“… …”

At my playful question, Rina froze with her teacup in hand. Then, starting from her nape, she turned red, and soon her entire face was flushed.

I didn’t say everything, but she must have understood what I meant. I chuckled as I picked up a cookie.

Rina, realizing I was teasing her, put down her teacup and started fanning herself. I received a look that said I was being mean.

Eventually, she pushed back her hair that had fallen forward and spoke. She still maintained her elegant tone.

“……If we marry, I suppose we’ll have to. It’s a kind of custom.”

“Are you really okay with that? If you don’t want to, we can just have a political marriage without doing anything.”

“No. I’d rather be with you than marry some mediocre man. And……”

Rina stopped mid-sentence. She continued to glance at me with her reddened face.

Her hand, which had been fanning, went down and gripped her dress tightly. For some reason, her body tensed up.

As I was looking at Rina’s incomprehensible behavior with confusion, she took a deep breath and said.

“Phew…… No. I’ll talk about this later. Right now……”

“Who should I ask?”

“Hm?”

“Huh?”

Before Rina could continue, Ariel’s voice cut in. Our attention turned to her.

Ariel stared at Rina with wide eyes and then mischievously said.

“Marie? Cecilly? Or Kate?”

“……?”

“I want to see it soon. Or should I ask for practice in advance?”

What is she saying? I tilted my head at Ariel’s words, which were difficult to understand.

Seeing her looking directly at Rina, she’s definitely reading her thoughts. But I don’t understand what she means.

“The kids won’t mind, right? We’ve already seen everything anyway.”

“Uh, uhh?”

“This isn’t because I’m a pervert. They’re too lewd…… lewd?”

Maybe it’s because an unfamiliar word came up.

“Daddy, what does ‘lewd’ mean?”

“… …”

“And what’s a pervert?”

As soon as I heard that, I glanced at Rina.

Maybe her head hurts and she’s running a fever.

*Thud*

She banged her head on the table as our eyes met.