Getting spoiled in a woman dominating world Chapter 501: Churches for the Goddess?

"I wish to erect churches for Rheanne throughout the Empire."

Valerian’s eyes widened, blinking a couple of times in surprise.

He had anticipated requests for land, wealth, military backing, or perhaps even a noble title, but this particular desire was entirely unexpected.

"Churches... in honor of the Goddess?" he murmured, the words barely audible. "You propose to establish places of worship dedicated to Lady Rheanne across my Imperial lands?"

Brandon affirmed, "Indeed. Not merely a few opulent temples within the capital, but actual churches situated in prominent cities and towns across the entire empire. These would serve as havens where citizens can convene, offer prayers, and find solace when the dimensional rifts manifest and the monstrous entities emerge."

"They must be reminded that they are not isolated and that a valiant protector stands against these abominations on their behalf."

Taking a measured sip of his tea, he continued, "Rheanne has no desire for veneration. I understand this implicitly. Her actions stem from a core belief in righteousness. However, the populace requires a focal point, a symbol."

"A sanctuary consecrated to her name – the woman who has preserved innumerable lives – could bestow upon them the fortitude they desperately need."

Valerian remained in thoughtful silence for a considerable duration.

The Emperor possessed considerable acumen; he grasped the profound political and spiritual implications inherent in such a proposal.

The construction of churches dedicated to Rheanne would undoubtedly elevate her standing to unprecedented heights, transforming her from a revered warrior into a living deity in the perception of his subjects.

Such an undertaking held the potential to unify the empire under a singular, shared faith and simultaneously bolster allegiance to the imperial throne, especially given that the Goddess had graced his realm under his express invitation.

Conversely, it also courted potential complications.

Exhaling slowly, Valerian articulated, "You are requesting a matter of considerable magnitude."

"The established churches devoted to the Sun and the Land have endured for centuries. The introduction of new houses of worship dedicated to a living individual... might incite discord amongst the existing clergy. Resistance is all but guaranteed."

"Furthermore, regarding Lady Rheanne herself... is she privy to this proposition? She has consistently expressed reluctance to be perceived as anything more than a guardian."

A quiet sigh escaped Brandon inwardly before he responded, "She is aware that I intended to broach the subject. However, she remains... circumspect. She does not seek adoration, but I am convinced of its necessity."

"The world is undergoing a profound transformation, and the populace is gripped by fear. They yearn for something tangible in which to place their faith. A figure who champions their cause and offers them hope. Rheanne embodies this."

Valerian shifted back in his seat, his fingers stroking his beard in contemplation. "Your words carry conviction, Sir Kael. And having borne witness to your prowess and unwavering devotion to the Goddess... I find myself predisposed to lend a sympathetic ear.

"The establishment of churches in her honor could indeed foster unity and resilience among my people. It could also serve to fortify the alliance between the crown and the sacred mission spearheaded by the Goddess."

He raised his teacup, taking a deliberate sip before setting it down with a soft clink.

"Very well. I shall lend my support to this endeavor. We can commence with the construction of a magnificent temple here in the capital, followed by a phased expansion into other major urban centers. The vast resources of the empire shall be placed at your disposal."

Brandon inclined his head in acknowledgment. "My gratitude. I shall confer with Rheanne regarding the specific arrangements and ensure the temples authentically represent her essence."

Valerian regarded him for another moment, a subtle smile gracing his lips. "You present yourself as an enigmatic figure, Sir Kael. You solicit no personal gain—no territory, no riches, not even a title—yet you advocate for measures that would further enshrine the Goddess. Your loyalty to her is... profoundly commendable."

Brandon responded with a faint smile of his own, though a maelstrom of complex thoughts swirled within him.

’It transcends mere loyalty. It is an imperative. The temporal paradox necessitates it. The future I am destined to return to hinges upon Rheanne ascending to the divine status the world will eventually accord her.’

The Emperor raised his cup in a silent gesture of toast.

"To the Goddess, and to the enduring prosperity of our empire."

Brandon mirrored the action, lifting his cup and gently touching it against the Emperor’s.

"To the future."

---

The evening had gracefully surrendered to a tranquil, star-strewn night above the formidable castle of Eurasania.

Freya and Emperor Valerian found themselves seated together on a secluded balcony, their gaze sweeping over the serene inner courtyard below.

Turning her attention to Valerian, Freya inquired, "Brother, did your discourse with Sir Kael touch upon the matter of Amelia?"

Valerian remained still, his eyes fixed upon the meticulously landscaped garden beneath them.

Freya's brow furrowed slightly, observing his passive demeanor. "You must surely be aware of Amelia’s profound infatuation with Sir Kael—"

Valerian interjected, his tone firm and decisive, "Sir Kael made no mention of Amelia during our conversation."

"I do not believe he harbors any romantic inclinations toward Amelia... his demeanor suggests he views her merely as an acquaintance in need of protection."

A flicker of astonishment registered in Freya’s eyes.

Valerian closed his eyes briefly. "You even enlisted Amelia’s personal maid to discreetly ascertain Sir Kael’s feelings for her."

"However... no. Sir Kael offered no commentary on Amelia’s potential betrothal during our discussion, nor did he betray any sign of dissatisfaction regarding her prospective arranged marriage."

Freya’s gaze wavered, her hands clenching in her lap. "That... cannot be possible..."

Valerian finally turned his attention to his younger sister. "Do you truly believe Sir Kael is the right choice for our Amelia?"

She looked up. "Obviously. Amelia has grown fond of Sir Kael, so I-"

He cut her off. "But I don’t think he is the right one for Amelia."

"Marrying her off to the 'Goddess's Shadow' would bring immense glory to my Empire... but as a father, I don’t want it."

His voice became softer. "Kael is a man who will always face danger fighting against monsters. I even offered him a position within the castle, but he refused, preferring to fight those monsters alongside Lady Rheanne... which is indeed a noble pursuit."

His gaze trembled with apprehension. "B-But... I don’t want my daughter to become a widow, Freya. Every single step Kael takes is fraught with peril. Every battle he engages in could very well be his last."

"I have already experienced the loss of my wife. The thought of losing my daughter to the same sorrow is unbearable."

Freya took a deep, calming breath before responding. "Brother... I understand your pain."

"I was present when you lost her. However, Amelia is no longer a child. She has blossomed into a strong, compassionate young woman who desires to live fully."

"Sir Kael treats her with the utmost respect. He genuinely listens to her. And he possesses the strength to ensure her protection."

Valerian slowly shook his head. "Mere strength is insufficient, Freya. I, too, was strong. I commanded armies, wielded power, and was blessed with the love of a wonderful woman. And yet... I lost her."

"I cannot gamble with Amelia's future, risking the same outcome. A politically advantageous marriage to a stable house would be far safer. She would be secure, and her future would be free from constant dread."

Freya’s expression softened with understanding. "And what sort of future is that? A life bound to a man she does not love, trapped within a different kind of prison?"

Valerian looked at his sister, his eyes clouded with sorrow. "I know your intentions are good. But as her father... I must prioritize her safety above all else. Even if it causes her a little heartache now, it might shield her from greater suffering in the future."

A gentle sigh escaped Freya’s lips. "Then, at the very least, grant her some time. Allow her to spend a little more time with Sir Kael before you make any definitive choices. She deserves that much consideration."