Episode 210
Isaac and Judah looked up at me, their faces blank with surprise. They clearly hadn’t expected me to suggest a debate.
Watching them, I couldn’t help but think they genuinely seemed flustered.
“A discussion about angels…?”
“Yes. Even though I’ve encouraged open discussion, surely I deserve a chance to defend myself against being labeled a rebellious angel. If there’s freedom to criticize, there should be freedom to counter-argue.”
“Well… that’s true, but…”
Of course, I don’t expect them to acknowledge me just because I present a counterargument.
If anything, I’d be the most surprised if they did.
The real goal is to expose the absurdity of the Jewish delegation’s claims to everyone here.
In a debate based on established doctrine, I wouldn’t stand a chance against those rabbis. But in this kind of discussion, I can definitely dismantle their arguments.
That’s why I could step forward with confidence.
“I’ve never been called the incarnation of a fallen angel before. Is there a reason you’re so intent on vilifying me?”
“Of course! It’s clear you possess abilities beyond those of a human, but your words contradict those of God. How can that be considered divine power?”
“So, you’re saying it’s a process of elimination. But then, what exactly am I? Baal? No, Baal is often equated with demons, but originally, he was a foreign idol. So, not Baal. Am I the serpent that tempted Eve, or perhaps Satan who tested Job? Or both?”
Even in the Jewish scriptures, the Tanakh, there are mentions of demons.
But there’s no clear system or logic regarding them.
In this situation, whatever they say will just be theories made up on the spot.
They know their arguments don’t make sense, yet they persist. What coherence could there be in such logic?
Without certainty, their insistence just seems like opposition for the sake of opposition.
As expected, Judah and Isaac darted their eyes around, desperately trying to come up with arguments.
“As you mentioned, the Tanakh clearly identifies Satan in the story of Job. If we say that demon is now testing the whole world, wouldn’t that make sense…?”
“How dare they!”
“Are you equating the prophet with Satan from the Book of Job?”
“Satan only brings calamity, never peace and prosperity. Where do you get such absurd ideas?”
I didn’t even need to counter; condemnation poured in from all sides.
This part is subjective, open to interpretation.
Of course, that doesn’t mean the other side will accept whatever is said.
It’s a cycle of endless rebuttals, where everyone can counter, and the other side can counter again.
“Where in the scriptures does it say Satan only brings calamity? He could pretend to bless to bring greater disaster! The path to hell is paved to look like the road to heaven!”
“The apostle helped us prevent smallpox! Enough with the nonsense! Job suffered from a skin disease because of Satan, but the apostle gave us a way to overcome smallpox!”
“That’s just laying the groundwork for a greater disaster…”
“These people are impossible. Show us the scripture that states that!”
“Conversely, there’s no verse saying otherwise, so it’s a valid point!”
This nonsensical argument continued to spiral.
Seeing Elazar’s face gradually fill with despair was a bit pitiful, but what could I do?
I gave them the best chance I could, and they squandered it.
Still, I plan to ensure that those like Elazar, who turn to our side, won’t suffer any harm, so I hope he doesn’t lose heart.
“In the end, it seems the more we talk, the more entrenched our differences become. I’ve satisfied my curiosity, so let’s conclude today’s meeting. Thank you all for your efforts.”
The first day of the council, which began with grace and reverence, ended with an unexpected debate about angels.
From my perspective, the outcome was perfect, but the departing Christian and Muslim delegations didn’t share that sentiment.
Strictly speaking, they too received favorable results, so they shouldn’t be dissatisfied with the council itself.
Their sour expressions were entirely due to one group.
Of course, those who instigated the situation couldn’t leave comfortably either.
I ensured no physical harm would come to them, so there was no bloodshed, but violence isn’t only physical.
As the Jewish representatives left, they were met with a barrage of jeers and insults, and the rabbis hurried away, fearing retaliation.
No matter how devout they were, most people wouldn’t act so recklessly in such a setting.
Of course, it was only possible because I set the stage, but now that it’s over, they might feel a chill down their spines.
In contrast, Elazar descended from the podium to enthusiastic cheers, like a hero who had broken free from an unjust organization.
The applause was so loud that I could hear it clearly as I exited.
“To think there was someone with such spirit among the Jews! I’ve gained a new perspective!”
“You must have suffered greatly among those who refuse to see the truth.”
“Here, have something to eat and stay strong! We’ll always support you, brother!”
“Elazar! You are the hope of Judaism!”
Having never received such overwhelming support in his life, Elazar was initially at a loss but soon became flushed with excitement.
“Thank you! Thank you, everyone! With your encouragement, I will never give up! I, Elazar, will change the minds of my fellow Jews who reject the truth!”
“Uoooooh!”
Perfect.
Observing the crowd’s reaction, I confirmed that everything was unfolding as planned and struggled to suppress a smile.
Indeed, nothing unites people like a common enemy.
And a few sharp individuals, sensing the shift, followed with knowing smiles.
“Congratulations.”
“Congratulations.”
“I never imagined the unification of two religions would proceed so smoothly.”
As soon as the council ended, kings like Philip II, Richard, and Saladin rushed to offer their congratulations.
“I didn’t expect things to go so well from the first day.”
“With both sides satisfied, the unification should proceed smoothly.”
“Well, even if it’s not a complete unification, it seems we can coexist like the Catholic and Orthodox churches. They’ve set aside their old grudges and get along well now.”
“In that sense, it’s similar to Christianity and Islam.”
With the biggest concern resolved, the monarchs’ faces naturally brightened.
Though they didn’t say it outright, these were the people who most wanted the council to succeed.
From now on, there would be no more wars fueled by religious conflict.
For countries that had poured countless resources into the Crusades, this was a welcome change.
Royal authority?
Having led the last Crusade to victory and hosted the final apostle, their authority was more solid than ever.
I have no doubt that as soon as they return, they’ll be eager to strengthen their royal power.
But what if the council had failed?
Naturally, my authority would diminish, and their plans would be thwarted.
They must have secretly rejoiced when Christianity and Islam agreed to acknowledge each other’s doctrines.
Even Richard, who seemed indifferent to such matters, couldn’t hide his excitement.
As my authority rose, he stood to gain the most.
Richard was already subtly boosting his status as the first king to recognize and honor the prophet.
It’s true, and as long as he doesn’t abuse it, I can overlook it. But I’m setting up an information network to ensure every little detail reaches me.
Otherwise, we might end up with another petty competition over who is closer to me, sparking factional disputes.
“Everything is going perfectly. Of course, it was meant to be.”
“Without the prophet, this would have been impossible. Ah, but it’s unfortunate about the incident at the end.”
“Incident?”
“Well… the Jewish rabbis’ outburst. It was laughable, really. No one took it seriously.”
“Indeed. As King Richard said, no one took it seriously, so I’m not too concerned.”
“But isn’t it infuriating? Some of them are renowned in Europe, and to think such people are active in our Christian lands…”
Ah, so that’s how most perceive it.
It was clear that not only Richard but also Henry VI nodded in agreement.
The exceptions were Saladin, who had a subtle reaction, and Philip II, who wore a wry smile.
When Philip II gave me a look asking if he could explain, I nodded in agreement. He might point out something I had overlooked.
“King Richard, that’s quite an emotional reaction. In fact, we should be grateful that Judaism has caused such a stir; it’s made things much easier for us.”
“Easier? How so?”
“Even though Christianity and Islam have agreed to pursue harmony, things won’t go as smoothly as we hope. Weren’t we all surprised at how well things went on the first day?”
“That’s true.”
“So, they’re essentially offering themselves up to grease the wheels between the two religions. We should accept it gratefully.”
Richard, though sometimes led by his emotions, is quite adept at politics when he sets his mind to it. He quickly grasped Philip II’s intention and nodded in understanding.
Only Heinrich VI continued to look around, puzzled.
“What? Am I the only one not getting this? I feel like the odd one out.”
“No, that’s understandable. You haven’t had much interaction with His Majesty, the Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire.”
In truth, the Holy Roman Empire, which needs to keep the power of its princes in check, could really use such skills. But there’s no need to reveal that truth. He probably knows it all too well himself.
I kept quiet, letting Philip II’s political lesson continue.
“Your Majesty, what do you think is most important when forming a group that doesn’t yet have strong cohesion?”
“Well, there are several things. A sense of unity that binds everyone together, or perhaps an external threat… Ah, I see now. But Judaism poses no real threat, does it?”
“Precisely, that’s what makes it perfect. They’re bothersome and noisy, yet we can strike them without any real concern. Throughout this council, Christianity and Islam will likely remain on friendly terms.”
As admiring glances were cast in our direction, I added, “Isn’t that too harsh on Judaism? I’ll encourage everyone to do their utmost to persuade them until the very end.”
Anyone watching might think we’re deliberately steering things this way. But I’ve given them every opportunity, and I intend to continue doing so until the council concludes.
And if they stubbornly refuse to cooperate? Well, then they’ll have to face the masterclass in politics from Philip II.
Honestly, I don’t feel obligated to take responsibility beyond that point.