The Order of the Holy Knights returned together with the triumphant army. Their return was celebrated in a manner different from the grand triumphal procession of allied forces that was hosted by the emperor.0

Although the Order of the Holy Knights formed a significant part of the allied forces, they were the armies of the five temples that made up the Divine Cult of the Almighty, and for the emperor to commend their achievements would imply that he was taking on a role that was supposed to be reserved for the gods.0

Therefore, the Order of the Holy Knights returned to their headquarters to be lauded and blessed by the High Priests of the five temples of the Divine Cult of the Almighty. All of the religious leaders were personally present at the headquarters for this victory celebration as honored guests.0

The main bases of each of the five temples were located in different places, and only the Temple of Alse, the god of war, was situated in the imperial capital, Gradium.0

The five leaders of the Divine Cult of the Almighty that were dedicated to the war god Alse, the sun god Shalam, the moon god Mensis, Ouen of purity, and Riter of courage had come to the capital. Once they had finished their speeches of praise and blessings for the Order of the Holy Knights, they would join the emperor for the subsequent events that marked the victory celebration.0

The reason for holding the first day of celebrations separately was not due to any political tensions, but rather due to purely religious considerations.0

Under normal circumstances, the Order of the Holy Knights, having fought a tremendous war and returned home, would celebrate their victory and enjoy some much-needed rest and relaxation, though not indulging in excess. The religious leaders would also be expected to join the emperor to rejoice and share in the glory of the triumph.0

“Hmm.…”0

Yet,...0