Chapter 30: Those Weaving Wicked Plots

“…”

“…Hukhh… Hukhukk…”

After Polena finished her story, I maintained a somber silence, while beside me, Cazeros’s emotions had reignited, causing her tears to flow once more.

And regarding us, Polena spoke with a melancholic tone.

“All this time… I’ve endured and endured, trying to forget somehow. Telling myself that this was unavoidable… a natural occurrence dictated by the flow of life. But no matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t accept a situation where someone I had laughed and conversed with just yesterday was found dead, while another I had reveled with became a murderer with blood-stained hands…”

“…”

As I listened to Polena’s words, I couldn’t help but empathize with her perspective.

Due to her foreign origins, Polena possessed an open-minded outlook.

From her standpoint, witnessing friends killing and being killed over trivial religious differences must have been an intolerable sight.

And as one reincarnated from the modern era into this world, I shared a similar viewpoint.

Of course, I acknowledged that religion held intrinsic value and positive aspects.

However, I could never condone the fanaticism that consumed individuals, rendering them incapable of discerning right from wrong as they ran amok.

‘Moreover, if those deranged individuals were my friends, I certainly couldn’t remain a mere bystander. I would undoubtedly seek a way to put a stop to this, no matter what.’

As I recognized why Polena was willing to offer her virginity to resolve this situation…

She looked at me with an imploring gaze and spoke with earnest tones once more.

“I implore you again… If I alone am insufficient… if there is anything else you desire, please tell me. I will do anything if you put an end to this situation. So please…”

“…Haah…”

Faced with her fervent plea, I let out a deep sigh as I contemplated the conclusion I had already reached.

‘In a situation like this… how could I possibly refuse?’

I had come to understand her circumstances and empathize with the mental anguish she must have endured.

Her repeated pleas and desperate appeals were enough to sway my heart.

Moreover, with Cazeros’s tear-filled eyes fixed upon me, I recognized that I had no means of escape.

‘In the end, it seems I have no choice but to spend some time here? This will only further strain my already tight schedule…’

Considering the impending coronation of Sigismund as the next emperor and the subsequent chain of events, time was not on my side before the Holy Imperium descended into civil war.

Acknowledging this reality…

I addressed the two women gazing at me with earnest expressions, resigned to the situation.

“Haah… Very well… If you insist so fervently… I shall provide my assistance.”

“Ah!”

“Thank… Thank you. Truly, thank you so much!”

In response to my acquiescence, Polena bowed repeatedly, while Cazeros already exhibited profound relief, even before our efforts had begun.

Observing their reactions, I felt an added sense of burden compared to before.

‘Well, I can understand Polena’s sentiment, but… doesn’t Cazeros place a little too much faith in me? From her expression, it seems she already considers the situation resolved…’

While my methods would undoubtedly prove effective, I couldn’t help but form a wry smile at being the recipient of such unwavering trust.

After striking the ‘deal’ with Polena, she, Cazeros, and I secured a room on the second floor to discuss the matter in greater detail.

“Then, allow me to introduce myself formally. My name is Santana Andreas, and this is…”

“Holy Knight Cazeros Sophia. Pleased to make your acquaintance.”

“Santana… and Ca…zeros?…”

For a moment, Polena wore a peculiar expression, but she soon regained her smile as she addressed us.

“As I mentioned before, my name is Polena. I don’t have a family name.”

While the absence of a surname was somewhat unusual, I saw no need to delve further, dismissing it as inconsequential.

More pressing matters demanded our attention, prompting us to swiftly transition to the crux of the discussion, given our limited time frame.

I began by posing questions to Polena regarding the prerequisites she had mentioned earlier.

“First, regarding the requirements you mentioned – the information I will request, and connections with influential figures in this city. Can you provide those?”

“Of course. As for connections, don’t worry, for I am well-connected despite appearances. From the city’s urchins to the lord’s closest aides, there are plenty of people I can seek help from or converse with, as they frequent this establishment as patrons.”

As the most popular tavern worker in the city, known for her affable nature, Polena’s ability to leverage her connections for information and resources was undoubtedly reliable – akin to the influential role of gisaeng housemistresses in the Joseon era.

“Very well. As for the information, please answer the questions I pose to the best of your knowledge. If there are any details you cannot immediately provide, I would ask that you utilize your ‘connections’ to gather even rudimentary intelligence.”

“Understood.”

With an enthusiastic demeanor, she began responding to my inquiries.

Contrary to my initial apprehensions, the breadth and depth of her knowledge exceeded my expectations.

“So, this is information regarding those who have been attacked thus far?”

“Correct. Atoll, a salt merchant… Cheri, a glass artisan… While they may have faded from people’s memories, they were all hardworking individuals who had amassed considerable wealth through their diligent efforts.”

“I see… And they had all shown interest in heretical teachings, I presume.”

“Yes, but… to be honest, Ellen’s case surprised me. I had never seen any indication that she harbored such leanings. I had always thought her a devout churchgoer. Many others who did not exhibit particular interest in the Church were also revealed to be heretics…”

“Hmm…”

Based on Polena’s testimony, I began analyzing the situation and formulating a plan, piece by piece.

Identifying the individual spearheading these events, their disposition and authority, and using that information to refine our strategy – this was our collective endeavor.

Approximately three days into our intelligence-gathering efforts within the city…

We had finally completed the entirety of our preparations regarding this matter.

“It took less time than I had anticipated.”

“Yes… Without your assistance, Polena, such a timeframe would have been impossible.”

“Heheh, thank you for the praise. Well then… shall we proceed?”

With those words spoken in an energetic tone, Polena’s demeanor prompted Cazeros and me to exchange smiles, ready to commence our undertaking.