Chapter 36 : Result

It's night time in Backlund,

Tonight, St. Samuel's Church had a distinguished visitor.

"Good evening, Your Excellency Lin Ruo."

After presenting the secret badge, Lin Ruo was guided effortlessly to an elderly man.

The elderly man donned a black and red clergy robe, with five dark holy emblems adorning his chest. His face was lean and clean, his most striking feature being his profound eyes that exuded tranquillity - the unmistakable characteristics of the Sleepless path.

He was Saint Anthony Stevenson, one of the thirteen archbishops of the Church of the Evernight Goddess. He held the position of the head in the Backlund diocese of the Church of the Evernight Goddess, a prominent figure within the church hierarchy.

Upon hearing Saint Anthony's amiable greeting, Lin Ruo, who had concealed his identity through his abilities, displayed a gentle smile. He replied, "Good evening, Lord Saint Anthony. I hope my sudden visit hasn't caused any inconvenience. Actually, the purpose of my visit is to seek your assistance. There are matters I'd like to discuss."

It was no surprise that Saint Anthony was aware of Lin Ruo's presence. After all, even without mentioning the night goddess' involvement, Lin Ruo knew that Dunn had reported his existence to the church leaders.

Lin Ruo had deliberately allowed this revelation. Having officially been recognized as the Goddess's Blessed in Tingen, there was no longer a need to keep certain matters concealed.

Otherwise, Lin Ruo would not have dared to wear the secret badge and assume a new appearance to visit Archbishop St. Anthony Stevenson.

"I am more than willing to help you, Your Excellency Lin Ruo. Could you enlighten me on the challenges you're facing?" Archbishop Saint Anthony inquired softly. Whether this information was conveyed to him by the goddess or if it was due to Lin Ruo's special status, the archbishop's attitude towards him was notably positive.

After careful consideration, Lin Ruo proceeded, "Your Excellency Saint Anthony, are you familiar with the Eight Principles? These principles are named Lantern, Forge, Grail, Heart, Edge, Winter, and Moth." Lin Ruo decided to introduce the topic by mentioning some significant aspects.

While this might reveal his knowledge of esotericism, Lin Ruo had long been guided and blessed by the night goddess. Hence, he had been liberated from such concerns. In fact, being forthright might lead to more productive outcomes.

Upon hearing this, though he did not outwardly react, Saint Anthony momentarily hesitated. He then inquired, "Eight Principles?"

After a brief recollection, he shook his head and admitted, "I apologize, Lin Ruo. I am not familiar with what you're referring to."

"Have you heard of Colonel, Lionsmith, and Elegiast?" Lin Ruo persisted, despite his internal surprise at Saint Anthony's lack of recognition. He continued to mention all the Hours names he was aware of.

Saint Anthony remained silent. His demeanor suggested that he was reminiscing. After a pause, he shook his head once more and responded, "I'm afraid not. The names you mentioned do not ring a bell... Can you explain what these entities are?"

"They could be considered as... malevolent gods," Lin Ruo explained, his heart growing heavy.

Lin Ruo recognized that if Saint Anthony had no awareness of esotericism, then there might be a scarcity of related knowledge within the Lord of Mysteries.

However, encountering this reality had significant implications for Lin Ruo.

Optimistically, perhaps the Colonel believer was a mere exception, similar to Lin Ruo himself?

Attempting to reassure himself, Lin Ruo listened to the elderly man before him ask, "Lin Ruo, are your challenges related to these malevolent gods you mentioned?"

"To put it accurately, it's not just challenges... I need their information, and there's something I need to confirm. It's of utmost importance," Lin Ruo divulged. His primary motive for visiting Anthony Stevenson was to ascertain whether he possessed insights into Cultists. Nonetheless, Lin Ruo also had an inclination to gather materials associated with esotericism.

After all, his understanding of esotericism was limited to a game, and it paled in comparison to the actual reality he was now part of.

"I understand. I will initiate an investigation into the matter you've brought up..." Archbishop St. Anthony responded thoughtfully. His expression grew solemn as he considered Lin Ruo's words. Then, he inquired, "Is there anything else?"

"I need to access information about the characteristics of the 22 pathways, as well as some knowledge of ritualistic magic. Additionally, I am interested in records of various extraordinary occurrences in Backlund over recent years," Lin Ruo elaborated, maintaining his composure. This was his secondary purpose: to catch up on his studies and gain a better understanding of the present state of Backlund's supernatural realm.

Saint Anthony looked at Lin Ruo, nodding, and agreed, "Except for restricted materials in the cabinet, you're free to peruse all other information here. If you don't find what you're seeking today, remember that you're welcome to return anytime in the future." Archbishop St. Anthony briefly outlined the resources available to Lin Ruo, pointing to shelves laden with documents.

"Materials stored here pertain to extraordinary events within the Backlund Diocese over the past decade..."

"Here, you'll find texts on ritual magic..."

"These records are from the Church of Saint Samuel, and they cover details about the 22 pathways, though the content is incomplete... While information about lower and middle sequences is abundant, data about the higher sequences is limited."

Saint Anthony concluded his overview and continued, "I hope you find what you're looking for."

With that, he drew the crimson moon symbol on his chest four times and uttered, "May the goddess bless you!"

"Praise the goddess!" Lin Ruo responded, mirroring the gesture by drawing the same symbol on his chest. He added, "I'll be occupied searching through these materials. Your Excellency, Saint Anthony, you needn't stay with me. Please attend to your own matters."

"In that case, I shall take my leave." Saint Anthony nodded in acknowledgment. He did not press for further details nor insist on remaining. With a graceful exit, he departed from the archive room.

Lin Ruo watched him go and then turned his gaze to the abundant materials at his disposal.

He chose a stack and began his research.

The archive room fell into a hushed stillness, undisturbed for an extended period.