My Life Was Taken by My Charm-Wielding Sister—But It Ends Here (The Mind-Reading Noble Lady’s Journey to Happiness After Escaping Her Toxic Family) - Episode 38

“That concludes the overview of the Tioriolun Temple.”

Several minutes later, the priest’s explanation ended. Though she hadn’t heard any more unsettling inner voices during that time, Otilie’s body remained stiff with tension.

(If nothing happens, that’s fine. But if what I heard earlier was true…)

She absolutely had to uncover the truth. Otilie gulped.

“Thank you for the explanation, Head Priest. May I ask a few questions?”

“Of course, Your Highness Varick. Please, ask anything you wish.”

The Head Priest—the man whose inner voice Otilie had heard—rubbed his hands together and smiled at Varick.

“First, about the number of priests. The figure recorded in this document includes not just the main temple of Tioriolun but also all the branch temples, correct? The number has increased quite significantly compared to a few years ago.”

At Varick’s question, the Head Priest’s eyebrow twitched.

[The number of priests? He didn’t ask about that last year. Why would the kingdom care about priest numbers anyway? Now, how should I respond?]

After muttering complaints to himself, the Head Priest narrowed his eyes slightly.

“…Indeed. The demands from visitors have been increasing, so we had no choice but to increase our numbers.”

“Yet the number of visitors has remained largely unchanged… it hasn’t increased. I’m having trouble understanding this supposed increase in demand.”

“That… that can’t be——. No, I’ll compile the data and provide an answer at a later date.”

The Head Priest furrowed his brow. In contrast, Varick smiled gently.

[What is Prince Varick playing at? Trying to catch me out… But how should I compile the data? The actual number of visitors is much higher than what’s recorded in the documents. Would it be best to claim our numbers were mistaken? I absolutely don’t want to touch the donation amounts though.]

(They’re underreporting visitor numbers…?)

While listening to the Head Priest’s inner voice, Otilie frantically took notes. Even if she didn’t understand the full meaning now, this would serve as a foothold for future investigations.

“Right. Could you also submit a roster of all priests? Including those at branch temples, please.”

“…Understood.”

Thump-thump went the Head Priest’s heart. His agitation was palpable.

[Why? He’s never requested that before. Well, I suppose he might want to check such things on a whim. But still…]

The tension grew unavoidably. Otilie leaned forward slightly.

“—Also, about the temple’s repair expenses.”

“What about them?”

The Head Priest’s heartbeat quickened. His face had turned pale, all composure gone from his expression.

“I’d like to see the actual repair sites later. And the contracts as well.”

“Understood.”

[Calm down. It’s just showing… just showing them. He didn’t say we have to copy them over. It’ll probably just be a superficial check. It’s fine.]

Words desperately trying to convince himself. Meaning there must be something he didn’t want them to see.

(Will just looking really be enough? It’s so suspicious…)

[Otilie, we have Aldrich. If he looks at them, he can easily copy them later.]

(Oh, right…!)

If they gave him time until submission, there was a chance the documents could be altered. Otilie’s brother Aldrich never forgot anything he saw. So, it was better to request immediate viewing only, right here.

“One more thing… yes. This year, could we also tour the treasure vault and the priests’ living quarters?”

“If… if that is Your Highness’s wish.”

The priest bowed while mentally clicking his tongue.

(Good. This should give us justification for conducting detailed investigations.)

Otilie sighed with relief.

After the overview concluded, Otilie and the others moved to the waiting room prepared for Varick. Only a few officials including the assistants like Airny and Aldrich were shown into the room. They all wore slightly puzzled expressions.

“Lord Varick, what’s going on? Why did you ask those…”

“Otilie heard the Head Priest’s inner thoughts. He’s plotting rebellion.”

A wave of agitation swept through the room. Varick silenced them with a look before letting out a quiet sigh.

“After being informed, I also listened to the Head Priest’s inner voice. I didn’t hear the word ‘rebellion,’ but there’s definitely something shady going on with him.”

“So that’s why you asked those questions…”

Airny murmured. Understanding the situation seemed to make many things click into place.

“I want to proceed with the investigation assuming the temple is planning rebellion. Aldrich, I want you to check and memorize the documents submitted by the priests—especially the repair contracts—then copy and submit them later.”

“Understood.”

“Let’s divide up examining the documents we already have. We’ll verify the priest numbers with the local lords. We’ll cross-check them with the roster later. For the repair contracts, check if anything seems off—I want particular detail on the cost calculations. We’ll inspect the repair sites now, but we’ll call in experts later too. Investigate the construction companies thoroughly. Also, I want at least a week’s investigation into visitor numbers and donation amounts.”

“Understood. I’ll handle the coordination.”

Airny responded. Varick nodded firmly.

“Otilie, your role will be crucial in this matter. …Will you help us?”

She didn’t yet know exactly what she’d be tasked with. But as Varick said, there must be many things only Otilie could do. Many people’s lives, their peace—they might be protected through Otilie’s efforts.

“Yes, Lord Varick.”

As she answered, Otilie straightened her posture with renewed determination.