Aztec Civilization: Destiny to Conquer America!

The Augustinian Order places equal emphasis on education and missionary work, being extremely active in the cities of England, Iberia, and Shenluo, establishing many theological seminaries, and cultivating a number of "Protestant Reformation talents." At this moment, the 12-year-old Martin Luther is receiving instruction in the Augustinian Order. Meanwhile, the 7-year-old Andreas Karlstadt is also about to step into the academy of the Augustinian Order and, in the not-too-distant future, will propose even more radical slogans for religious reform.

In addition to the five major religious orders of the Catholic World mentioned above, there are also two largest military orders, the Saint John Knight Order and the German Knight Order, which have always maintained strong military power.

As for discipline, organization, and the unification of military and religion, the more extreme and powerful religious order, the Jesuit Order, has yet to be born, only showing initial signs. And the soil for their birth must be laid in the overseas colonies after large-scale appearance, "for the greater glory of the Lord," to thoroughly regulate the life and beliefs of the indigenous people, from language to culture, completely destroying the "ignorant traditions" of the natives!

"The Almighty bless! The exploration of the New Continent still requires long-term collaboration between the Royal Family and the Church... Nuno Chief, I have always believed that your contributions and accomplishments in this regard reflect your long-standing devotion to the Almighty! And between the Royal Family and the Church, there also needs to be exemplary nobility such as yourself as a link, no matter how the ruling monarch changes..."

"...Bishop Diogo, please wait a moment..."

Nuno Chief politely bowed, rising from the mahogany chair. He stepped outside the door, whispered a few instructions, and summoned two trusted men to guard the entrance before returning to the room. With the thick wooden door and walls isolating the outside sounds, the two transitioned from ritualistic greetings and discussions to more important topics.

This was precisely the purpose of Bishop Diogo’s visit, and after months of avoidance, Nuno Chief finally had to take a stand.

"Esteemed Marquis Nuno, King Joao’s condition is dire, and the Church’s monks and nobility are deeply worried. Several high priests of the Lisbon Cathedral have deliberated for a long time and decided to hold a grand prayer mass for King Joao, and I’ve come to invite you to participate in the upcoming mass to pray for the King!..."

"The Almighty bless! The scale of this mass is significant, with many important nobility participating, surely able to pray for the Almighty to bestow a miracle and heal the King’s lingering illness!..."

Bishop Diogo showed compassion, piously made a cross, while Nuno Chief raised his eyebrows, his smile faded, and he solemnly regarded Bishop Diogo. The two stared at each other for a few moments, with Nuno Chief speaking first, asking gravely.

"Esteemed Bishop... who are the ’important nobility’ participating in this Church mass?"

"The merciful Holy Mother watches over all! Those able to participate in this mass are the kingdom’s nobility who are generous and pious. Among them, the most generous and pious include the following..."

In the airtight room, Bishop Diogo smirked, staring into Nuno Chief’s eyes. He slowly uttered the names of several great nobility of Portugal.

"Duke of Braganza, Alvaro de Braganza; Count of Cantenede, Pedro de Meneses; Commander of the Guard, Royal Household Chief Duarte de Almeida;... Of course, the most pious and noble one, Duke Manuel of Viseu, grandson of the former King Duarte!"

Every name mentioned caused a jolt in Nuno Chief’s heart, his expression growing increasingly solemn. These are the kingdom’s great nobility, either holding real power in the kingdom or having significant influence in Lisbon. The young Duke of Braganza, Alvaro, especially suppressed by Lord Joao, even had his father and brother executed. Upon hearing Duarte, who commands hundreds of Royal Guards and also the Royal Household Chief, was participating in the mass, his face instantly turned pale, almost incredulous.

It’s worth noting that Duarte personally participated in the suppression of the former Duke of Braganza’s rebellion and achieved great military success! Such a trusted confidant holding military power with thick brows and large eyes, is also joining the prayer mass?!

Nuno Chief remained silent, his expression clearly shifting. Finally, after hearing Duke Manuel of Viseu’s name, his face became completely expressionless, hiding any internal thoughts.

"Marquis Nuno, we all know King Joao’s condition... The severity of the King’s illness requires a miracle from the Almighty for true healing! Duke Manuel is most pious, having fasted and prayed for the King in the Church’s Cathedral for several days. Several times, the Duke has fainted from crying during the ritual!..."

"This noble prince of royal blood, his piety and good deeds have long been seen by the Almighty. In the views of the bishops of the Lisbon Church, he is far more pious and closer to the Almighty than King Joao’s illegitimate son, Duke George of Lancaster!..."

"Marquis Nuno, Duke Manuel also respects you highly. He believes in your loyalty to the Royal Family, even praising your expertise in colonial affairs publicly in front of us... He believes you have always been an outstanding court minister, the best candidate responsible for overseas expansion! Yes, this is the Duke’s public statement in the Church, heard firsthand by the bishops who deeply agree..."

Having said this, Bishop Diogo paused, watching Nuno Chief’s flickering eyes, then smilingly asked.

"The merciful Holy Mother blesses us! So, esteemed Marquis Nuno, what is your response? Surely, the devoted and loyal one like you will attend this public mass for Lord Joao’s prayer?"