A Stranger Wearing the Name of Your Wife - Chapter 9

“I’ve become an unwed mother. What do you think, Uncle?”

His eyes widened in surprise, and he carefully took in my words. He processed them inside, then furrowed his brow. I watched every change in his expression closely. It seemed the temple really didn’t know anything.

“…Even though the wedding was held?”

His voice was low and filled with anger. His usual polite tone had faded. My uncle, the younger brother of the former emperor, had always been a hot-tempered man. When someone tried to hurt our family, he would become so fierce that I had to stop him. My mother was his cousin.

He joined the temple to avoid fighting over the throne—he didn’t want to harm his family. He had always cherished me since I was little. In this situation, he was the best person to take action.

“What did the temple in the Kingdom of Addison say?”

“They were surprised.”

So, they didn’t know either. I smiled and told him, “Even the temple was deceived.”
**Crack.** A loud sound came from Uncle’s hand. His teacup now had a big crack.

“Uncle, please be careful with your hand.”

“I’ll order an investigation right away.”

He placed the broken cup on the saucer and wiped his wet hands. The nine gods are said to have created this world. The temples that worship them have power and influence that crosses borders. Though rarely used, that power is greater than even that of a king.

Each country has only one High Priest, except the Empire, which has two. If a High Priest orders an investigation, it affects every temple in all nations. That means I could get the answers I want very quickly.

“Thank you, Uncle.”

“No need. So, what happened to the fool? Did you just leave him?”

“I chose to protect my dear daughter first. Now, I will act together with my brothers.”

“I see… Then the temple will also support you.”

As the young priest came in to refill the tea, Uncle’s voice changed. His quick switch in tone had always impressed me. With his gentle expression as a High Priest, I also responded in the way a follower would.

“If I have the support of the High Priest, then there’s nothing to worry about. May the gods bless us.”

I ended the conversation and took his hand to stand up. I gathered my skirt and gave a slightly deep bow. In our royal family, the only ones we bow to are the gods and the High Priest.

“Next time, I’ll visit with my daughter.”

“Please send advance notice earlier next time.”

I nodded with a smile. This time, it couldn’t be helped. There might have been enemies inside the temple. I might have been refused entry. That’s why I left the palace right after sending notice—so it would be too late to stop me. It also gave me time to prepare by making it seem like I had already departed.

I told him I’d contact them at least a day in advance next time, then turned my back and walked away. My serious uncle would surely bow his head to me now that I had returned to being a royal princess.