Above the Gray Fog, inside the grand and ancient palace.
Klein, having assumed the identity of the "World," looked toward Cyril and asked:
"Do you know anything about the Rose School of Thought and the 'Prisoner' Pathway?"
"If, and I mean if, I had an ally of equal strength and we were up against a 'Werewolf,' a 'Zombie,' and a 'Wraith,' what would be the best way to deal with them?"
"The best way, of course, is to report them to a nearby church." Cyril answered as if it were obvious.
"...." After a moment's silence, Klein spoke more firmly. "I'm serious."
"So am I." Cyril shrugged and explained, "The Beyonders of the Rose School of Thought have been thoroughly steeped in the 'Mother Tree' they worship. Even the Beyonder Characteristics they leave behind are contaminated. You can't use them without Purification, and you might even attract the attention of that 'Mother Tree.'"
"The rewards for killing them aren't worth the risk, so the best choice is to let the Church handle it."
"Mother Tree?" the "World" Klein asked in confusion.
Cyril recalled the relevant information briefly, then explained, "At first, the Rose School of Thought worshipped only the 'Chained God.' They advocated temperance and asceticism, and could be considered a fairly upright secret organization."
"But at some point, they began praying to another being, the 'Mother Tree of Desire.' Their revelations also started including words like 'Indulgence' and 'desire.' Now, only factions that indulge their desires remain within the organization, and the 'Chained God' has almost faded into obscurity."
"Oh, and once you leave Mr. Fool's divine kingdom, don't think about the name 'Mother Tree of Desire' again. If you're unlucky enough to draw its attention, you'll be in trouble."
"...I understand." Klein furrowed his brow and gave a