Helmut: The Forsaken Child - H.F.C Chapter 423 (Part 1):

The preparations for the expedition were finally complete. It had been a long time since the last campaign, and though it took time to make thorough arrangements, there was no hesitation in the decision.

It was late at night—no, the early dawn.

The cloudless sky was clear yet dark as death, with twinkling stars illuminating the darkness like beacons of hope.

The holy knights, priests, and temple soldiers.

All those under the banner of the Temple of Lumen gazed at that serene sky, gripped by a sense of sublime reverence.

It was truly a sacred day. For today, they would quell the rebellion of humanity and purify all that was evil.

When the will of Lumen spread across the world, Renosa would spill blood before the holy sword.

“The sun will cast its radiant light, and by the time this dawn breaks, we shall arrive at Latona in Renosa.”

Though there were no torches, the white light emanating from the holy knights’ armor softly illuminated their surroundings.

And upon the dais before them stood six High Priests, gathered in one place.

This time, not at a round table, but before their army.

They were the highest-ranking figures in the Temple of Lumen.

To the followers of Lumen, these were revered figures, so noble that one would gladly kneel and kiss the hem of their robes to receive their blessings.

These six High Priests were believed to represent the will of Lumen and embody the temple’s authority.

The will of Lumen they had chosen was a holy war.

A few days earlier, at the round-table meeting held before the expedition, the High Priests had to make a momentous decision.

“This enemy is not to be underestimated, so more than half of the High Priests must join the campaign,” Levina declared.

All nodded in unison. Paolo spoke up.

“More than half means three. Will that suffice? We are not facing a single foe.”

It was a remark that recalled the disappearance of the Sword Saint, which had prompted Basor to aid Renosa.

Paolo, present here, was one of the main culprits who, along with the two High Priests slain by Helmut, had sent the Sword Saint to the Forest of Roots.

But back then, they had merely colluded with forces within Basor, luring the Sword Saint into a trap and eliminating him.

This was an entirely different matter—a full-scale invasion of far greater complexity.

Though none present thought of it as an invasion.

“Then what?” another asked.

“All but one High Priest should head to Renosa,” Paolo replied. “That is the only way to end this war without unnecessary losses. Renosa has the Black Wing Knights, and the Mages’ Association supports them. If we delay, that vile empire and Basor will come rushing in, complicating matters.”

Another High Priest nodded.

“He speaks true. We must muster our full strength and march to Renosa. We must achieve our goal before reinforcements arrive.”

Their goal was simple: to slay Helmut, who wielded evil power and had even swayed the Grand Duke, and to remove the Grand Duke of Renosa from his seat.

All they needed was to place someone close to the temple—any collateral member of the Renosa family—on the grand ducal throne.

Agato asked gravely, “So, one remains to guard the temple, and the rest go to Renosa?”

“That… would be for the best, wouldn’t it? Not all can go,” Paolo said with a sly smile.

A murmur rippled among the High Priests.

Even they were not eager to take on the role of vanguard in a holy war.

Remaining to guard the temple was far more comfortable, free of any danger.

Above all, it was a principle that at least one High Priest must stay to protect the temple.

One High Priest was sufficient for that task. Additional numbers would make little difference to the defense.

The temple itself functioned as a fortress, and with one or more High Priests, its defenses could be activated.

Though not as potent as a sacred barrier, the temple’s defenses were stronger than any city’s barrier in existence.

But then, how would they decide who would be the fortunate one to remain and guard the temple?

The High Priests exchanged glances, sizing each other up.

Yet the answer was already somewhat decided.

In case of an emergency, one of the most senior High Priests, capable of commanding the temple, had to stay.

Among them, the most senior was Agato, followed by Levina.

They were the most upright among the High Priests, free of personal scandals.

Regarded as exemplars within the temple due to their impeccable conduct, they wielded significant influence.

The two High Priests were steadfast allies, but this time, they could not act together.

Agato spoke first.

“High Priest Levina recently poured much effort into the sacred barrier. It is time for others to step forward.”

His gaze met Levina’s. Her face was solemn, but her eyes were sharp. A divine whisper flowed to her.

[Paolo cannot be left behind.]

Levina immediately understood.

Among them, Paolo, the third most senior, was a greedy man.

Though he stood within Lumen’s embrace, he was not one to be fully trusted.

Regrettably, they could not entrust unchecked authority to him.

Either Levina or Agato had to stay.

Agato believed Levina should remain. Levina, with a heavy heart, agreed.

Paolo readily complied with Agato’s words. Stroking his chin, he nodded.

“Your words are wise. It seems most fitting for High Priest Levina to stay.”

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