Chapter 135: Sacrifice

Chapter 135: Sacrifice

Cardinal Deviale.

Shiron had anticipated that a visit would eventually come, but he hadnt imagined it would be so soon.

Given that Deviale was extremely busy with the establishment of a new organization for the protection of the Emperor, it made sense.

One might assume his schedule had cleared due to the Emperors death during treatment, but with the cardinals divine power so great that it spawned jokes about reviving the dead, Shiron set aside such speculation.

However, that didnt mean Deviale had any reason to put everything aside and come here.

Even in the devastated Alhyeon Room, there were quite a few survivors, many in need of his healing touch. And was he himself not a patient?

There must be an important matter. With that thought, Shiron faced Deviale.

How are you feeling?

Shirons face was full of concern as he asked.

Earlier, you seemed to be in a bad state.

Im fine.

You dont look fine at all. Arent you still wearing a bandage on your head?

Im sorry for coming without notice. I should have waited a bit longer.

Its not like that, so just stay put. Why are you trying to leave?

Shiron prevented Deviale from standing up and continued.

Im just worried that the cardinal might be overexerting himself. So, you dont need to apologize.

I may have caused you unnecessary concern. But Im fine. Ive even survived with a hole in my heart before.

Deviale nodded and touched his head. Conscious of the bandage, he unwrapped it and showed it to Shiron.

Is he trying to prove hes healed?

After finishing his thought, Shiron closely inspected the bandage extended by Deviale. Strangely, the bandage was spotless.

What?

Frowning, Shiron alternated his gaze between the clean bandage and Deviale.

What is this?

A means to escape the palace. Despite urgent matters, they hardly let anyone go.

Are you saying you feigned illness?

That seems to be one way to put it.

Deviale chuckled, seemingly amused by his own words.

The attendants were so overbearing that there was no chance of leaving halfway through. They insisted on staying, claiming the Emperor hadnt awakened even though the treatment was complete.

So, I used my injury as an excuse to escape.

I see.

Shiron nodded with a hesitant expression. He couldnt quite wrap his head around the absurdity of it all but decided to agree for the moment.

Deviales lack of condescension towards Shiron and his rough grasp of Deviales thoughts were clear.

The emperor in a coma is less important than meeting me, it seems.

An individual of significance, perhaps even surpassing the Emperor.

Hero.

Deviale must regard Shiron as a hero, especially after witnessing him wield a sword that emitted a tremendous light.

Cardinal, may I ask you something?

Yes, of course.

But Shiron decided to seek confirmation directly from him. The issues with the 1st Apostle and Latera were enough of a headache without adding uncertainties.

Am I more important than the Emperor?

He didnt ask directly, as that would come across as arrogant.

Yes.

Deviales answer was straightforward, seemingly understanding Shirons underlying question.

Because you are a hero.

Yes youve recognized me correctly.

Well, the dead cant speak, right? Since the 1st Prince, blinded by power, even dabbled in sorcery, he wont find it unfair in hell.

?

Deviale stepped back, narrowing his eyes. Shirons face bore no smile, not seeming like a joke at all.

Under normal circumstances, he would have rebuked him

But somehow, Deviale found himself persuaded. The 1st Prince, in his greed, had attempted to kill his father and brother with such a wicked method; it seemed plausible he had ties to demons.

Considering Lucerne had conducted innocent witch hunts just half a century ago.

Since the 1st Prince was neither good nor innocent, wouldnt this be acceptable?

Otherwise, rather than falsely accusing him, it might be best to declare the investigation suspended. If new temples emerge, we can always resume the investigation then.

Shiron firmly persuaded the cardinal, who was hesitant to respond.

Sometimes, its necessary to choose what is more important.

Indeed, the Lord also said to first take care of the living.

He turned his gaze towards the main palace, directing his consciousness there.

We havent even conducted the funerals for the victims yet, and there are still many patients.

Deviale himself was prioritizing tasks based on their importance.

I must be going now.

Should I help too?

No, theres no need. Ive heard that Captain Malleus will be arriving by tomorrow.

Its fortunate that Captain Malleus wont be making a wasted trip.

Shiron let out a relieved sigh. Deviale got up, eager to return to the front lines.

By the way, something just occurred to me.

What is it?

About the existence of the hero.

Deviale whispered again, bringing his mouth close to the ear as before.

How many people know the identity of the hero?

Apart from my companions, only you, Cardinal.

I see.

Why do you ask?

Shiron furrowed his brow.

Just a precaution, but my being a hero should remain a secret.

Of course, I have no intention of spreading it around. I personally think its better to keep the heros identity a secret.

May I ask why you think so?

You may take it lightly.

Deviale pulled out a bible from his pocket and showed the last page.

How many years has it been since you held the holy sword?

Its been over 7 years. Why do you ask?

Because the bible stopped its records 500 years ago.

Deviales gaze narrowed as he looked at Shiron.

Even the oldest bible, bound more than a thousand and several hundred years ago, stops at the record from 500 years ago.

From a certain point in the bible to the last page, it was the story of Hero Kyrie.

There might be those who doubt your qualifications as a hero.

Are you saying they might quibble just because my story isnt recorded?

Exactly.

Deviale shook his head and sighed.

It doesnt fit with modern times but there have always been fervent believers.

As far as Deviale knew, Malleus was also among those fervent believers.

Regardless of not doubting your valor, having seen it myself, I think proving it to them one by one would be tiresome.