"Thank you for everything," Sean feigned gratitude. "But why expend such power to save a mere baron?"
Benjamin smiled sadly. "Your teacher was Sir Reese Field of Paromia Cathedral, yes?"
Sean nodded, recalling Reese's role in his predecessor's downfall. If not for that man's knightly idealism, I'd never have crossed paths with this world.
"Six years ago, bishops across Lane convened at Paromia. Through divine prophecy, we identified you as the Light's incarnation in our duchy—the Church's Divine Son. With Duke Albert's approval, Reese mentored you. That's why I prioritized your survival."
"Divine Son?" Sean staggered. Divine Sons ranked just below the singular Divine Daughter in the Holy Light hierarchy—ceremonial figures with no real power,yet revered.
…
"Yes. We intended to groom you for the ducal throne, ensuring Church influence. But Reese's arrest for adultery and your exile shattered our plans."
Understanding dawned. The Duke's purge of Church allies. Exiling Sean—a symbolic repudiation of the Church's claim—made him a sacrificial pawn in their power struggle.
…
"Though exiled, we won't abandon you," Benjamin vowed. "We'll send priests and paladins to Riverside for healing and protection."
"Can they depart with me?" Sean's eyes lit. Priests would aid in Gnoll suppression.
Benjamin hesitated. "Due to recent events, deployment will take three months."
Sean's hope dimmed. Too late for immediate needs.
"However…" Benjamin channeled a weak holy light, summoning a floating tome: Faith and Cultivation. "Teach this to children. Any mastering Chapter 1 within seven days may join our clergy. I'll train them myself."
Sean forced enthusiasm. "The Light's radiance shall blanket Riverside."
…
For 30 minutes, Sean posed as a devout acolyte, peppering Benjamin with questions:
How vast is the Holy Light Church's global influence?Can faith energy be augmented beyond prayer?Paladins vs. mages—who reigns supreme?
Benjamin answered eagerly, unaware of Sean's ulterior motive: EXP farming. By the end, Sean's bar glowed Level 10 17/100—11 EXP gained!
Joshua interrupted with urgent matters. Reluctantly, Sean bid farewell.
"May the Light guide you, Divine Son." Benjamin's gaze was warm.
…
Departing the church, Sean reflected. The Holy Light Church, a transnational power, would not concede. His predecessor's fate—caught between crown and clergy—reinforced Sean's resolve: I'll carve my own path, free from both.