A few moments later, Archbishop Gregor led the Heroes into another chamber, one shielded from prying ears. He needed to discuss matters in private—away from the Emperor's gaze.
He didn't want the Emperor to learn anything that might portray the Holy Church as weak before the Imperial Family of the Holy Light Empire. Princess Livia's betrayal had already shaken their foundation; the last thing he needed was to push the entire Imperial Family into open defiance.
There was a real possibility they had already turned. Perhaps the auction was a calculated move, a silent declaration of separation. Yet, without concrete evidence, the Church couldn't confront them—not without risking political disaster.
'I hope they weren't in league with that ungrateful little bitch… If they were, they'll bear the weight of treason against the Holy Son,' Archbishop Gregor thought grimly as he guided the Heroes deeper into the sanctuary of the chamber.
