Candidates for Governor

The Weeping Saint Cathedral fell quiet for a long while.

Yasol's retirement had not come without warning. Everyone present was a senior figure on the Tear Knight Defense Line, and all had dealt with him closely to some degree. They could see that he would step down as governor within a few years. Yet when the day arrived, it still felt too sudden.

Bishop Adrian, seated beside Yasol, asked, "My lord, your health—"

Before he could finish, Yasol waved a hand. "I can live another few decades. It just isn't right for a blind old man like me to keep occupying this position."

Bishop Adrian opened his mouth, but did not know what to say.

Meanwhile, the Recorder took out a prepared sheet of parchment, ready to record the succession proceedings.

Yasol swept his sightless eyes across the Assembly Hall. "The Holy City has confirmed who is eligible to stand for selection."

At those words, everyone sat up straight, especially the few who had hopes of succeeding him.

Yasol read the first name: "Raymond."

Raymond rose, bowed slightly to Yasol, then gave a knight's salute to both sides of the Council Hall before sitting down again.

His name caused little stir in the Assembly Hall. He was an obvious candidate.

Several Legion lords nodded in support, while everyone else remained composed.

Yasol read the second name: "Bishop Edwin."

From among the Relic Seats, Edwin stood and straightened his ceremonial robes. He saluted the presiding seat, then bowed slightly to the others around him.

He did not command as much attention as Raymond, but he was a leading figure within the Relic System. He had handled its affairs steadily for years without ever leaving a problem behind.

To many, that steadiness was exactly what a candidate should have.

Then Yasol read