The Bewilderment of the Sacrificial Second Princess

Chapter 68: Hillian’s Prophecy

“…Why do you look so disturbed? I understand that you may not be fond of me, but…”

“…It’s not that I harbor any personal animosity towards the Crown Princess, but…”

Hillian appeared to be pondering what he wanted to express.

He seemed uncertain about how to articulate it and was afraid that even if he did, I would not comprehend it, and that my heart would reject not just Hillian’s words but also his intentions.

I aspire to be friends, but if the feelings are dismissed, emotions will overpower rational thought. It could lead to an insurmountable relationship beyond professional obligations, which could also be saddening for Hillian.

For me, having witnessed the corrupt religion of the Faithnum Empire, the Four Gods religion of the Sinn Fe Kingdom, as demonstrated by Hillian, is vastly different. This religion does not condone offering lavish gifts to adorn the priests like pigs, but rather, it involves a series of practices aimed at honing one’s skills to become a priest and communing with nature, thereby easing the lives of the common people.

If I reject it, a gap will ensue that cannot be bridged. I am not a follower, so I certainly possess the right to reject what will be said, but I must balance that with Hillian’s trust.

“…I only ask for tolerance. I have no aim to persuade you. It’s simply that… the words of the emperor when the Faithnum Empire conquered Sinn Fe are ingrained in my memory.”

And so, as the daughter of the emperor who made that statement, he was displeased by the attention Lord Balk, whom Hillian admires, often showed me.

However, after my interactions with Hillian thus far, his animosity towards me seems to have dissipated, as we went on a gem-buying excursion.

“What exactly did my father say?”

“We do not deny or acknowledge your gods, as it is a trivial matter. However, serving our country is more important than where your heart lies.”

Even though the Faithnum Empire don’t have any respect and believe in things without any reason, the Sinn Fe was asked to work for them.

In the strictly utilitarian society of the Faithnum Empire, Sinn Fe is a nation where people alter their lifestyle through interaction with nature.

It must have been quite dull. The oppression was enforced through the power that allowed one to do whatever they liked in areas that were not related to the ruler, without any consideration or respect.

Though no one has actually denied it, you cannot bring yourself to feel any positive emotions towards the parent who would say such a thing to the daughter. And now, to add to that, his respected boss is working happily with the daughter and has even been approached to discuss religion.

“I apologize, Hillian. No, I didn’t seek your aid because of my status as the crown princess. This is not a command, I simply wanted to know out of personal curiosity. I don’t hold fondness for my father or the Faithnum Empire… nor am I particularly good at them in that regard.”

Although I couldn’t mention that “I was nearly killed by them”, my face displayed a lonely smile.

Hillian was momentarily speechless, then paused to think before speaking.

“I understand… but what I am about to say is just a monologue. Please don’t respond.”

As I wondered if I should acknowledge, Hillian continued.

“Your honeymoon will be tumultuous. Surprisingly, it will be based on a different faith, a different branch with roots similar to your homeland, seeking you out… I understand it sounds unfavorable, but please keep it in mind… I will not delve deeper into my religion.”

With the utmost bow, Hillian joined the sleeves of his homeland’s attire and respectfully said “Please”.

I recited every word of his monologue flawlessly, and after respectfully bowing before the door, I departed from Hillian’s place.

This was the result of his best effort to compromise, his generosity, and his personal consideration towards me. I had no choice but to accept and depart.

However, the situation felt ominous. It was like a form of prophecy, but if natural elements, such as time and space, could be involved, then it was possible.

Yes, in the holy scriptures of the Four Gods religion, it was referred to as “divination”.

It was limited to making predictions. I needed to conduct some research about the honeymoon destination that Auglia-sama and I would be embarking on.