The ritual ended.
Looking at the items on the altar, Sifa did not dare reach out and take them immediately. After all, Kottman was still there. He looked toward the Archbishop, his gaze asking a question.
Jahn Kottman stared at the altar as well. After two seconds of distraction, he made a gesture. A priest brought over a chest, packed away the items bestowed by the Lord of Storms on the altar, and handed it to Kottman, who then passed it to Sifa.
"This is the Lord's acknowledgment of your contributions. Keep it."
"Also, the name you know is the Lord's true name. Do not reveal it lightly. Usually, praise our Lord more in your heart."
"In times of danger, you may recite the Lord's true name. But whether our Lord will take notice or offer aid is unknown."
"Remember, do not speculate about the Lord's intentions. Make more contributions instead."
Sifa agreed repeatedly, then forced out a smile. "Your Excellency Kottman, I need two materials. I wonder whether the Church happens to have them, and whether you would be willing to sell them to me."
He then named the two materials, which were what Merinda and the Snake-Haired Folk lacked for their advancement to Demigod.
Seeing that the Lord of Storms had not only accepted his sacrifice but also bestowed the materials he needed, Sifa knew the Lord of Storms had acknowledged him. Since they had already established some connection, he would be considered one of their own by the Church of Storms in the future. Sifa was no longer afraid that Kottman might infer anything, so he directly made his request.
Kottman's expression remained unchanged as he said, "Go to the Church of Waves tomorrow. Jorgi will prepare what you need."
How accommodating.
Sifa hurriedly thanked him, then