Qin Ran remembered what the statue of Sister Reed had said in the illusion created by Damien of the Twenty Hounds.
Although its words differed from those of the statue before him, "bestow" and "inherit" somehow gave Qin Ran a similar sense of familiarity.
Perhaps the illusion Damien had created had been too realistic-so realistic that, even knowing it was an illusion, Qin Ran had still carried it over into reality.
That was why Qin Ran remained wary of the statue of Sister Reed, whom the world so widely praised.
Qin Ran was cautious to the point of being suspicious by nature.
Until someone had truly earned his trust, Qin Ran would always hold something back. That was especially true when the phantom on the statue before him displayed considerable intelligence.
Aside from its opening remark, the questions that followed were enough to prove that.
And that gave Qin Ran another suspicion.
Sister Reed's soul?
Or...?
"I'm not a monk of the Marilin Church!"
"The Marilin Church disappeared long ago, during the three great wars a century ago. I merely happened to obtain a way to enter this place."
His mind raced, but Qin Ran spoke without betraying anything.
"Is that so?"
The phantom on the statue wore a sorrowful expression.
"Are you Sister Reed's soul?"
Qin Ran asked.
"Yes."
The phantom on the statue answered, naturally displaying a kindly, peaceful expression.
Upon hearing that answer, Qin Ran bowed respectfully.
"Greetings, Saint Ryd!"
Qin Ran's tone was deeply respectful as well.
Watching Qin Ran bow and hearing the humility in his voice, the phantom on the statue smiled.
"There's no need for that. I..."
"May I ask, Saint Ryd, who was your first student?"
"Of all your disciples, who did you consider the most suitable to inherit the Marilin Church?"