Tears of the Holy Mother

Shien and Arthur passed through the corridors of the Governor's Mansion, making their way toward the deepest part of the building.

This was the least populated part of Tear Knight City, and also the one with the most high-ranking guards.

Several Silver Gates along the way even required confirmation from both the Governor's Mark and a Sacred Flame Attendant before they could open.

By the end, only Yasol remained, leading Shien farther and farther down.

At last, Yasol stopped as well. "Here we are, the Weeping Holy Grotto."

Shien looked up at an ancient stone door carved with tear-shaped holy runes. Sacred flame patterns converged inward from the doorframe, encircling a recess only the size of a palm.

"From here on, you must go in alone." Yasol pressed his hand into the recess. The governor's Sacred Flame Mark lit up, and the sacred flame patterns on the door flared into brilliance one after another.

"The Tears of the Holy Mother is one of the Most Holy Church's oldest holy relics. Its powers are protection and sacrifice." While waiting for the holy runes to activate, he continued explaining things to Shien.

Shien listened quietly, committing every word to memory.

"Every Tear Knight Governor has come here, but each received something different. Some merely gained recognition as the successor.

Others could borrow a portion of the holy relic's power. Very few have ever established a complete covenant."

"What did you receive?"

At the question, a hint of a smile appeared on Yasol's face. "Take a guess."

Shien had not expected him to joke around. Yasol seemed to be in a good mood today.

Then Yasol continued, "Remember, the Tears of the Holy Mother doesn't judge you solely by your strength. The Tear Knights have no shortage of powerful fighters, and plenty of