If Ian had known the other side was worrying over such a simple matter, he would definitely have answered, "Just bring money."
Those envoys of the orthodox churches were fine in every other respect, but their sense of ceremony was far too strong... Sure, he was a prophet, but no one had said they needed his permission to visit him—let alone complete some task to earn recognition. If they wanted to enter as guests, they just needed to bring more gifts and money.
Ian had always been practical. Besides, using the names of the Four Orthodox Churches to establish his reputation as a prophet was something he had wanted to do anyway. Naturally, the more benefits he could get for free, the better.
But now, he planned to go home and eat the Foresight Twin Leaves first.
It was already noon when he returned to Harrison Port. An old man by the roadside was repairing alchemical lamps for the local residents right on the street. His craftsmanship was exquisite, and he gave Ian a familiar feeling. He was probably one of the students from the alchemy class Elder Pude had opened nine years ago.
The old man repaired tools at an unhurried pace, his movements slow but steady. Now that age had weakened him, he could still make a living with his craft by charging low prices and repairing things openly before his customers.
Not far away, a bard played an organ in the wind. The sea breeze of the southern lands was warm and damp. Several adventurers who had come for the Great Labyrinth stopped to listen. When the tune ended, some turned and left, while a few gave him two Fenny.
A scene of peace and prosperity.
"But there is still much room for improvement."
Ian stopped for