Chapther 7- The only choice

Erick's POV:

I silently follow the archbishop toward the central church that graces the town square. The imposing building stretches toward the heavens with a massive bell tower that announces the hour regularly every hour. Even though we're a good distance away, the bell tower is fully visible from a distance.

- Do you know what Cardinal Ernesto wants to talk to me about?

- I have no idea, my lord. I'm afraid we haven't been given that kind of information... But...

- Any ideas?

- If I had to guess, I'd say it has to do with the legendary Witch of Deception.

Silence falls between the two of them again. Archbishop Marshal's comment makes me wonder about the possibilities. Although I've distanced myself from the church for half a year, there are rumors everywhere about an effort by the church to wipe out the Witch of Deception.

- Are they really trying to wipe out the Witch of Deception?

- I wouldn't know what to tell you, sir...

While researching witches, I found all sorts of stories about the legendary Witch of Deception. It is said that she was the only surviving witch after single-handedly exterminating all the heroes of the first generation in a fight that lasted a full week. It is also said that with her skills, she brought the entire continent to ruin by deceiving the king of the ancient Rishon Empire, which led to its fragmentation into the eight countries we know today. The number of stories that exist about the strength and abysmal power of the Witch of Deception are so many and so varied that some versions contradict each other, but if one thing is certain, it is that she is not an opponent who can be easily defeated.

I remain immersed in my thoughts as I follow the archbishop toward the great cathedral.

...….

- Welcome, great hero!

- ….

I suspiciously observe the warm welcome from Cardinal Ernesto, who warmly opens his arms to me. Perhaps understanding my displeasure, he lowers his arms and sits elegantly on the sofa behind him as he looks at me. I sigh as I follow his example and sit in front of him. A small but extravagant coffee table sits between us as we silently gaze at each other. A maid arrives and places an elegant tea set on the table. She then bows and leaves the room. At some point, the archbishop had also left the room, leaving us completely alone.

- So... what does His Eminence Cardinal Ernesto require of this humble adventurer?

I decide to break the silence to quickly end this conversation. The cardinal seems pleased by my decision to break the silence.

- You don't need to be so humble, Mr. Erick. The exploits of the great fire hero are known even outside his kingdom.

- ....

I sigh as my efforts to avoid using my title as a hero are ignored. My gaze toward the cardinal becomes even harsher.

- Didn't I tell Your Eminence not to treat me like a hero while I'm on my journey of self-discovery?

- …I'm afraid circumstances warrant it. You've already spent six months skulking around at will despite my opposition. If we don't do something right now, you'll be—

- I'm sorry, but I don't need to hear any more. I'll return to my duties when I've achieved my goal, not before and not after.

I suddenly stand up, ready to walk out the door. The cardinal looks at me with some regret as he sighs.

- That's why dealing with young people in their rebellious stage is so challenging for my poor self.

- Who are you calling a rebellious teenager?

I look at the cardinal, somewhat annoyed by his words. I see him putting pressure on the middle-aged man to scare him, but he's unfazed.

- Don't be so impulsive, Mr. Erick. Can't you accept a little teasing from my poor self?

I look at him with some annoyance, while he remains completely calm. When I make a move to leave, the man clears his throat to get my attention.

- Do you want anything else?

- ... Are you really willing to sacrifice your country for the sake of that rebellion?

His words make me stumble as he looks at me sharply for the first time since the conversation began. His eyes show an incredible coldness as he observes me.

- ... What are you referring to?

- I suppose you know the Hero of Blood and his story, right?

"The Hero of Blood..."

Also known as the Cowardly Hero. It is said that of all the heroes, he was the only one who didn't fight the Witch of Deception and fled, making him the sole survivor of the Seven Heroes. Since then, his hero and his country have been branded as traitors. Despite eventually becoming part of the alliance of countries that form the continent, they were never in a good position and were constantly abused by their neighboring countries. Naturally, this country never fought against other countries because it knew that the moment it tried it would be invaded by the other 7 countries that surrounded it.

- Of course I know him. Every hero and prince knows his story—

As I was answering, I suddenly froze. A small possibility popped into my head as I looked incredulously at the Cardinal. He just looked at me coldly, nodding as if he'd read my mind.

- You don't mean... they'll make me the new cowardly hero, do you?

The Cardinal didn't say a word, but his eyes showed he meant it. Despite wanting to complain about how unfair and unbiased it seemed, I knew complaining to the Cardinal wouldn't get me anywhere. I just stared at the Cardinal in astonishment as he elegantly sipped his cup of tea.

- I hope that will make you more aware of your current situation, Mr. Erick.

- ...And what do you expect me to do?

- I only wish for you to join the other heroes in subjugating the witch. Even if you don't have a major contribution, I need you to participate in some way.

I ponder this as I pace around the room. Thinking I have no other option, I decide to follow through with his request.

- Understood, I'll go participate. I just have to think about-

- Don't worry about transportation. Right now I have a carriage waiting for you outside the cathedral to take you to pick up your things and then to your destination.

- …. As always, I see you're very well prepared.

- Thank you very much for the compliment.

He bows slightly toward me as he watches me. Finally, I leave the room and head out into the large hallway in front of me.