"Do not use the thoughts of a mortal to fathom the intentions of the gods... Our Lord favors you greatly, Kebo Phil... Do not forget, after you defected from the Shadowless Order, it was we who continuously funded you, nurtured you, and even prepared to help you unlock the Fourth Primordial... All of this is our Lord's will and grace... Once you become a Non-Human Existence, you will be the God of Suffering's favored one! His vanguard! His representative upon the earth!"
The cultist said in a chanting tone, "This is a glory that we could never attain even with ten thousand prostrations. You ought to be grateful."
Kebo Phil gave a derisive laugh. "No, you merely intend to use me... You used me to commit crimes all over Plymouth and draw the Investigation Bureau's attention... Or rather, to give the person behind you an excuse—an excuse for his collaborators in the Kingdom's upper ranks to make the Investigation Bureau focus on more sensational matters, such as me! Instead of noticing your schemes and tricks! I am a magician. Never try to deceive a magician skilled at toying with the hearts of his audience."
"You are very clever..." The cultist holding the statue of the God of Suffering fell silent for a long while. Upon that crimson silhouette, light seemed to descend.
The darkness in the sewers gradually grew thicker.
"Master of thorns and blood.
Favored one of depravity and scarlet.
Great God of Suffering."
The cultist began reciting the God of Suffering's honorific name. Just as the atmosphere grew even tenser, his voice abruptly changed into a gentle one as he said, "Kebo Phil... Tell me your choice!"
Kebo Phil suddenly smiled and gave a comical bow in the manner of a clown. "The great 'God of Suffering' has