The hall's predominant color was black, yet it did not seem gloomy or dim at all. Instead, it possessed a peculiar luster and brightness.
The hall had twelve entrances, each with a black stone path converging on its center. Each path was divided into lanes on the left and right, and each was three thousand meters long.
On foot, three thousand meters was no short distance, but along the paths were things resembling circular dark patches. Once you stepped onto one with both feet, you did not need to move; it would carry you toward the central area.
At that moment, many people were moving toward the center along the twelve paths, while many others were leaving.
Each person either held documents or reports, or carried nothing and had simply come to report or answer a summons.
It was quiet here, but at the same time, it was extremely busy.
At the center of the twelve paths stood a desk.
Seated behind it was Norton, the current High Priest of the Order God Church.
He rapidly reviewed documents, issued instructions, made judgments, heard reports, and assigned tasks. Everything proceeded swiftly and methodically, without the slightest congestion on any of the twelve paths.
Cardinal Kreid ascended the steps.
"Greetings, Your Eminence."
All the surrounding Guards placed one hand over their chests.
The Guards Captain was an elderly man clad in ancient, weathered armor, with a round shield on his left arm and a short blade hanging at his waist. Standing there, he resembled a towering mountain before the hall.
He was Mobiten Benda, captain of the High Priest's Guards, and had provided security for four successive High Priests.
"My lord, please allow me to announce you first."
"No need. I'll go straight in to see the High Priest. There's no need