694 Temptation_1

The night was pitch black, but the Holy Light Cathedral was as bright as day.

The holy beam of light descending from the heavens forever banished the darkness from taking its place.

Yet, in such a solemn and sacred place, the atmosphere tonight was not solemn.

"We must retaliate! Otherwise, where will the church's dignity and prestige be?"

"Exactly! We must let those damned nobles know, their authority comes from the Supreme Lord!"

"Indeed, if we do nothing, wouldn't that be admitting that the Emperor of the Empire doesn't need the coronation of the Church? That Monarchy trumps Theocracy?"

...

Pope Mensai stood expressionless before the statue of the Lord of Glory, listening to the vehement accusations of the high-ranking church officials around him, showing no reaction.

Upon closer inspection, one would find that the Pope's eyes had lost their focus, presumably lost in thought somewhere.

"Your Holiness! Your Holiness!"