"You've misunderstood your father. Although the Pamireth Church isn't a major church, becoming its Church Venerable isn't that easy.
Before becoming Church Venerable, you have to enter the Pamireth Church's 'Messenger Space,' receive its baptism of inheritance, and have the insights and memories of successive Church Venerables poured into you.
If you really went through that process,
Derius,
would you still be you?"
"Are you questioning my loyalty to the God of Order?"
"I'm not questioning your loyalty to the God of Order. It's just that, by then, you would no longer be Derius. In fact, you could no longer even be considered a person."
"So, Father, should I thank you? Thank you for rescuing me in time, while I'm still myself?"
"You are my son and a loyal believer of the Order God Church. Whether as your father or as a bishop of the Order God Church, I will protect you as best I can."
"Heh..."
Derius released his grip on Bishop Byrne's collar, walked back to the sofa, and sat down.
Bishop Byrne continued, "The negotiations will proceed as normal. You still need to consider yourself the Pamireth Church's true Divine Son and secure as much autonomy for the Pamireth Church as possible in this merger. Once those old fellows in the Pamireth Church approve the negotiated treaty and the 'Messenger Space' is opened to our church's Order Temple, your sacred mission will truly be complete.
Your name, your contributions, and your image will all remain in the history of the Order God Church."
"You don't need to tell me any of this. I know what to do."
"Yes, I've always had confidence in your abilities."
Bishop Byrne looked at Kallen and said, "I should leave."
"Yes, sir."
Kallen opened the door for Bishop Byrne and accompanied him