Philosophical questions had always been difficult to reach any conclusions on, but the fact before them was that the Sacred Fire Cat Cult had begun stepping out from behind the scenes.
When the agreed-upon day arrived, everyone was listening to divine revelations and collecting free supplies as usual when the thunder of hooves came from outside.
"Oh no! It's the city guard and the Royal Knights!"
Someone peered through the window and recognized the newcomers, instantly turning pale. "They can't be here to arrest us, can they?!"
Those words struck the others like a heavy hammer.
The truth was, things had been so peaceful these past few days that many people had nearly forgotten they were attending an illegal gathering. Coming here every day to check in, collect eggs, and pray to the Saintess had become routine. They would feel uncomfortable all over if they missed even a single day.
Only now, with snot practically dripping into their mouths, did they finally realize they should wipe it away.
Unfortunately, it was already a little too late. Before they could say anything else, the Royal Knights had kicked down the doors and stormed in—now they could not run even if they wanted to. Where was the secret passage? Save them!
"Nobody move! Hands on your heads, squat down!"
The leader was also an old acquaintance: Captain Chen of the Royal Knights. He swept his sword through the air and barked with an unfriendly glare, "We received a report that someone was holding an illegal gathering here... Who is in charge? Step forward!"
"...That would be me."
Xu Shi straightened his clothes and walked down from the platform. "I am Xu Shi. May I ask, sir, what crime have we committed? We were merely preaching and distributing aid here."
"Xu Shi? The