You old fox!
John cursed inwardly at the answer, though he kept smiling as he said, "Since you have no objections, Priest Lucius, I'll arrange for a temple to be built here. We'll be counting on the Church to spread the gospel of the Lord of Holy Light among the Beastfolk of the territory."
"It's our duty. There's no need to be so courteous, Governor."
Lucius nodded slightly. Before John could dismiss him, he added, "By custom, the highest local official and a priest must wield the shovels together at the foundation ceremony, as a sign of harmony between government and Church. Would you be available at noon today, Governor?"
There it is. His true aim.
But the suspicious items those charlatans had brought were still stored in the warehouse, untouched.
And John had sent people to inspect their belongings before they boarded the ship. Nothing suspicious had turned up.
Judging by that information...
The old charlatan had probably noticed John was on guard and had no intention of trying anything at this damned foundation ceremony.
He was more likely saving whatever he had planned for later...
John's mind raced, and he soon arrived at that conclusion.
After a brief pause, he said, "I'll attend."
"But I'd like to keep the ceremony simple."
Meeting Lucius's gaze, John explained with a smile, "Faoken has a great deal to rebuild. Personally, I don't think extravagance would be appropriate. What do you think, Priest Lucius?"
"Quite right."
Lucius made no attempt to push back against John's probe. Instead, he readily agreed.
Then, as if to demonstrate his sincerity, Lucius bowed before John could say another word and took his leave. "I won't keep you from your work, Governor. Please allow me to withdraw. I'll gather the clergy at the ceremony site to await