It was perfectly normal for everyone to have different thoughts, but Ganis was still deeply worried.
Prevent trouble before it began; every split developed from minor conflicts.
Such disagreements might lead to a schism within the sect later on.
In truth, this was an unavoidable trend, but he hoped it would come as late as possible.
They were all servants of the Lord. They might differ in how they defended the faith, but they should not become hostile toward one another.
Listening to the various voices around him, Ganis made up his mind.
"Enough. Listen to me."
His words drew everyone's attention. At this point, Ganis's prestige remained unmatched.
"This was my mistake. I was set up by the government.
"I'm not afraid of death, but dying now would merely be running away from responsibility.
"The sect finally obtained secular power. This is the perfect time to spread the faith, yet I cannot fulfill my previous promise.
"We can discuss my punishment later. For now, in my capacity as Patriarch, I declare that we will cooperate with the legal proceedings. What we must do is ensure that our brother's sacrifice is not wasted."
Most people understood Ganis, but there would always be some whose hearts harbored a trace of doubt, wondering whether he was saying one thing while meaning another.
That was human nature, and it was difficult to avoid.
Of course, everyone expressed their understanding for the moment and supported his decision.
"Patriarch, I'll go persuade him."
Someone volunteered to share the burden.
But Ganis stopped him and said with absolute firmness, "I'll explain it to him personally. If our brothers harbor resentment, I am willing to bear it. This was my mistake."
If he lacked even the courage to take responsibility, then he truly would be saying one