Reincarnated As a Vampire [English Version]

Chapter 26 - Side story

Conversation Behind Sacred Curtains

Inside the grand chamber of the Holy Cathedral of Valderland, two important figures sat in a tense conversation. One was Archbishop Gail, the highest-ranking cleric of the Valderland Royal Church. Across from him sat an elderly man clad in a robe of white and gold-Pope Markus, the supreme leader of the Church across the five kingdoms.

Like the Academy, the Church resided in a neutral zone at the center of the five major kingdoms. It stood as a symbol of peace and faith. But this morning, that peace was being quietly tested.

"Gail," Markus said in his deep, commanding voice. "What is it you wish to discuss with me?"

Gail bowed respectfully, then spoke with steady calm. "Markus-sama, have you heard of the girl from the Knight Academy who defeated a dragon in the forest not long ago?"

Markus nodded slowly. "Yes, I've heard. A young girl, wasn't she? Quite the stir she caused."

"Indeed. But what's more astonishing, Markus-sama... is that the girl possesses all elemental magic."

Markus's eyes narrowed sharply. "Are you certain of this information?"

Gail nodded firmly. "I sent spies to investigate. They witnessed it with their own eyes-she wields all the elements with mastery. Fire, water, wind, earth, light... even darkness."

Markus fell silent for a moment, then muttered, "If that is true... she could become a serious threat in the future."

"There's more, Markus-sama," Gail continued. "That girl... is the princess of the Kingdom of Neverland."

Markus looked startled. "So, she's the child King Aldric just announced has returned?"

"Exactly. If Neverland realizes her full potential, they will surely use her as a political weapon. It could shift the balance of power entirely. War may become inevitable."

Markus clenched his fist. "To preserve peace among the kingdoms, we cannot allow that to happen."

"That's why I seek your judgment, Markus-sama," Gail said resolutely.

The Pope nodded with firm resolve. "Gail, we must act. For the sake of peace, that child... must be eliminated. I will summon representatives from all five kingdoms. If four agree, even if Neverland refuses, the execution will proceed."

"I stand ready to support your decision, Markus-sama."

Markus called for his aide and issued the command, "Send letters to the five kingdoms immediately. This matter cannot wait."

And so, behind the stone walls of a seemingly tranquil cathedral, a dark conspiracy began to unfold. The fate of a single girl was now in the hands of powers that claimed to serve peace.

But peace... often demands sacrifice.

---

To be continued...