The Saint Disappeared with Her Memories — Her Broken Engagement Decided the Kingdom’s Destiny - Chapter 34

After listening to Elise’s report about the temple, I let out a sigh. The temple’s incompetence was far worse than I had imagined. Her report far exceeded my worst expectations.

“The temple is no longer functional, Your Highness. The elder sages are busy shifting blame onto each other, the priestesses are fleeing one after another, and those who remain are utterly confused.”

It seems my revenge for my wounded pride has ultimately ended in failure as well. What a complete mess.

I summoned the elder sages to demand a report on the mission I had entrusted to the temple. They stumbled over themselves, offering flimsy excuses.

“Your Highness, we deeply apologize. There have been traitors within the temple. Because of this, the details of your request have become muddled.”

“Is that all?”

“N-No! There’s more! There were also those who interfered. That sage, Alexis, incited the priestesses, causing many to flee, and the temple’s functions have.”

As I listened to their excuses, a feeling of resignation grew stronger within me than anger. I didn’t even have the energy left to be angry.

“Understood. That’s enough. This discussion is over.”

“B-But! Please, if we could just—!”

The soldiers unceremoniously dragged away the babbling temple officials, and the room finally fell silent.

I suppose this means the era of the temple, with its long history, is finally coming to an end. An inevitable fate. I had even provided financial aid in an attempt to rebuild them. I had tried to rely on the temple. But it was all a wasted effort. This time, I’ve resolved to cut my losses.

There’s no time for sentimentality. I must analyze the situation calmly. If the temple is dysfunctional, I need a replacement. For the kingdom’s stability, an entity that can serve as the people’s spiritual pillar is essential.

Lately, I’ve heard rumors about an organization calling itself the “Healing Church.” It seems they are handling the kind of work the temple used to do. They perform healing and blessing rituals, and their reputation among the citizens is good. Their abilities appear to be genuine.

“The Church, huh…”

Using them as allies instead of the temple might be a good idea. The royal family will officially recognize the Church’s existence. By building a relationship with them, I can aim for the dawn of a new era. Yes, this is the next move.

But that alone isn’t enough. A greater transformation is necessary.

“The succession to the throne… This might be the only timing I have.”

The current King, my father, has absolutely no interest in governing the kingdom. His days are spent indulging in hunting and banquets, leaving all official duties to the ministers. In practice, I’m the one managing everything. Precisely because of this situation, I can carry out the succession at a time of my choosing.

My original plan was to rebuild the temple, secure a stable foundation, and then ascend the throne. But unfortunately, now that I know the temple’s reconstruction is impossible, a change of plans is inevitable.

It’s a bit of a gamble, but I’ll take the bold step of becoming King. Then, I’ll set everything in motion. Starting with building a relationship with this new Church, I will change the very structure of the country.

I’ve been waiting for the right moment, but if I wait any longer, I’ll miss this crucial opportunity. I can’t wait any longer. A useless King is unnecessary.

I looked down at the royal capital from my office window. The temple tower looming in the center. The new Church building, standing as if hiding in its shadow. The square bustling with citizens. This country can become stronger. I’ll make sure of it.

“That’s right. I’ll take the gamble.”

I will begin a new era. The people will expect the situation to improve with a new King. If I can then bring this so-called Church to heel, my reputation will rise. Success as King will be assured.

The plan is perfect. Let’s set it in motion immediately.

First, I’ll gather the ministers and have them prepare for the succession. There will likely be opposition, but if I point out the current King’s incompetence, I should be able to persuade them. They surely don’t want this unstable situation to continue indefinitely either.

Next, I’ll request cooperation from the Church. I need to have someone investigate thoroughly—who their leader is, what kind of organization they are. If they refuse, I might need to find their weaknesses and use them to force compliance. I’d prefer to avoid forceful measures, but if necessary, I won’t hesitate.

I might also be able to use Elise. She seems to have abandoned her position as the Saintess and only thinks of becoming my Queen, but that’s up to her. If it helps me achieve my goals, I’ll grant her that wish. But if she becomes a hindrance, I’ll have to cut ties with her as well. Don’t push my patience, Elise. There won’t be a second chance.

“Now, my era is finally beginning!”

The day I sit on the throne and grasp true power is near. After all, I am the one most suited to be King.