One was the Sacred Mountain Dwarf Kingdom, a diocesan state belonging to the Dwarven Mountain God, Modimus.
The other was the Holy Third Kingdom of Dawn, a diocesan state belonging to the God of Dawn, Lansendel.
There was an essential difference between diocesan states and faith states.
While faith states used a two-tier system of rule consisting of king and nobility, diocesan states used a two-tier system of church and council. Military power belonged to the church, while local political authority belonged to the council and was supervised by the church.
Therefore, a god's diocesan state was naturally stronger militarily than a faith state, yet far weaker than nations known as empires.
In a sense, empires and gods stood on equal footing.
"With Lady Anastasia stationed here, there's no need to worry about the safety of Lake of Star Prayer. The real trouble now is the impact of the extreme weather."
In five months, it would be autumn plowing season. That would be a severe blow to agriculture.
"Buy grain. Once we get back, start purchasing and stockpiling grain."
"Take this opportunity to make proper plans and expand the territory's population."
Afterward, Velin stood up and tossed the pebble in his hand into the lake. Ripples spread across the water as he turned and returned to camp to rest.
Six days later, Velin, who had been away from Lake of Star Prayer for three months, felt a surge of excitement as his territory came into view.
As Lake of Star Prayer's temporary person in charge, Belder had begun making preparations early in the morning, continuously issuing orders to welcome the lord's return and display the results of the past three months.
"Stand up straight! Show the boss your best side!"
"If anyone screws up, I'll make sure the next half