The Pope holds a prominent position in the Bathalan religion, with a designated territory in the capital called Bulan (Moon). The name Bulan stems from the first-ever Grand Temple in the territory, where the moon's radiant glow illuminates the glass dome roof, creating a majestic sight at night. The territory is vast, comparable to the size of three combined territories, and is rumored to have been constructed using expensive materials.
The Bathalan religion is divided into two factions of believers: the Conservatives and the Modernists. The former eschew luxury, while the latter draw inspiration from their travels abroad. This led them to conceive the Holy City in Bulan (Moon) Territory, aspiring to rival St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican.
Pope Alon aligns with conservative beliefs but doesn't condemn the Modernists' way of thinking. He is an open-minded pope, demonstrating greater loyalty to Bathala than any noble house. His principles include a staunch stance against bribery and a keen sense of justice. During the revolution, he pleaded with the new pope at the time, "Pope Sinag," to conduct a fair trial for the Benevolencias. Unfortunately, Sinag, driven by greed, ignored his plea, leading to the unfair execution of the Benevolencias.
Isolating Priest Sinag is insufficient punishment. How about placing him in a temple near the lost city where monsters lurk? Additionally, I propose exiling Isabella and her family with him, as the Lobos (wolves) will find them a satisfying meal.
“Your Highness, this way, please.”
A temple priest guided me to the VIP room where Pope Alon awaited our meeting. Demonstrating his respect, he arrived earlier than scheduled.
“Good day, Your Highness,” he greeted me with a smile.
“Good day, Pope Alon,” I replied, returning the smile while holding my teacup.
“Why have you come, Your Highness?”
“I received an oracle again. Would you mind if I share it with you? I'll convey the visions I witnessed.”
I showed him visions familiar from the novel. With my powers, creating scenarios akin to a movie is effortless, and I can even alter someone's memories. It's a perilous ability if not used judiciously.
After inheriting my powers, I discovered the ability to create numerous mental storage rooms, a convenient alternative when lacking a smartphone for capturing memories. Writing is an option, but it's troublesome, especially as ballpoint pens have yet to be invented.
Returning to the visions, I shared details of The Benevolencia's death, the Empire's downfall, the orchestrators, the temple's future, Bathala’s wrath, and the nations involved in the Empire’s collapse.
Pope Alon suddenly knelt and bowed down, tears streaming down his face.
“Please forgive us, please forgive us.”
The intensity of the visions seems overwhelming for him. It appears his character holds more depth than readers initially perceive. I knelt beside him, gently holding his left shoulder, offering reassurance that everything is now forgiven.
“I have forgiven you.”
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