One-Third of the Truth

To tell it like it is, Iver really was the Pope now.

Although he was only the Acting Pope, he did indeed have the authority to judge blasphemous heretics! Even though this painting was filled with all kinds of theological errors... especially that pure-white candlebearer's head, which was the most outrageous of all, Iver showed no signs of anything unusual. He merely followed Sasha's gaze toward the entrance.

Just then, a black-haired, red-eyed boy of about sixteen or seventeen walked in amid a crowd of people.

His features were more beautiful than those of many of the young ladies present. His scarlet eyes shone like rubies, and a pair of slender, curved horns with a red-to-black gradient grew from his head. His long black hair fell to his waist, and even his high-collared formal attire revealed no Adam's apple...

Yet despite being so beautiful, he showed none of that feminine, androgynous quality.

Instead, he gave off an intense sense of confidence and masculinity, shining brilliantly like the sun--

When "Cain" appeared, the melancholic dance music in the hall abruptly transformed into a magnificent and sacred symphony.

Even the lights focused on him, following his steps as he advanced.

Cain wore the same smile as everyone else and spread his arms wide. It was as if he were preparing to embrace someone, or greeting his fans like a celebrity.

Everyone stopped dancing and turned around, unleashing an endless roar of cheers like a tsunami.

When he entered the crowd, the people naturally parted to either side. Amid their increasingly fervent cheers, Cain passed effortlessly through the center without touching anyone.

As he passed by Iver, he smiled and nodded at Sasha. He also raised his head and glanced somewhat bemusedly at Iver, whose hand was still resting on Sasha's shoulder.

Then