Chapter 12: Bishop Benjamin

Exiting the smithy, Sean found John pacing anxiously outside. "Let's proceed to the church."

"Thank the Light!" John sighed. "Next time, allow me to accompany you into such places." He'd feared dereliction of duty if harm befell Sean.

"Very well. You may join me at the church."

Minutes later, they reached Yorn's tallest structure—the Holy Light Church, towering 30 meters above the commoner district. Two silver-armored guards flanked the entrance.

"I am Sean Violet, Baron of Riverside Town. I wish to meet Bishop Benjamin."

"Speak to Pastor Joshua first—he manages the bishop's schedule. He prays in the nave."

Sean entered, spotting Joshua kneeling in meditation. "Pastor Joshua, I seek an audience with Bishop Benjamin."

"Lord Sean!" Joshua bowed. "Welcome. However, Bishop Benjamin is gravely ill and cannot receive visitors."

"Sick? How?" Sean recalled the bishop's miraculous healing just days prior.

"Even the devout falter. Illness is the Light's punishment for yielding to temptation." Joshua's tone was severe.

Convenient theology. Sean suppressed a scoff. "I'll return another time. May the Light aid his recovery."

As he turned, Joshua called out: "Wait! While commoners are barred, your station merits an exception. I'll ask the bishop."

Joshua returned swiftly. "Bishop Benjamin will see you—but leave your guard here. This is holy ground."

"John, remain." Sean followed Joshua deeper into the church.

In a dimly lit chamber, Bishop Benjamin lay swaddled in blankets despite a roaring fireplace. His once-vibrant eyes now dull, complexion ashen.

"Forgive my state, Lord Sean. I cannot rise."

"No need. What caused this sudden illness?"

Benjamin hesitated, then dismissed Joshua. Once alone, he confessed: "My affliction stems from faith energy depletion. Two days ago, I used an unmastered Tier 4 spell to heal you—an act that drained me."

Sean's breath caught. The bishop risked his life for me? But why? As a mere baron, he lacked such clout.