Abel pulled a document from a drawer under the table and waved it at the deacon: "The 'Public Opinion Bureau' doesn't see it that way about the crystal relic. They've done their investigation, and that kid may have already mastered the craft of making the relic. The so-called excavation of ancient artifacts is just an excuse."

The man placed the book on his lap and straightened up: "What's your reason for doing this? To make a profit?"

“It shouldn’t be. There’s no evidence that any holy relics have been sold.” Abel leaned back in his chair, relaxing, and suddenly changed the subject: “These past few years, the Church has been living a peaceful life, and many people think the danger has passed. Little do they know, the Church is currently in its most dangerous period. To our east are the self-proclaimed orthodox ‘Orthodox Church,’ to the north are restless barbarians, to the west the kings are becoming increasingly unruly, and to the south… to those heretics in the south…”

Tristan lowered his head and said, "I heard that this guy named Todd wants to establish a knightly order in a town on the western coast..."

The cardinal laughed: "I've heard about this, but it's hilarious. Establishing a knightly order on the coast of the Silver Ring Kingdom? Does he want to go fishing at sea?"

"My lord, I don't know if you have heard, but the barbarians and pirates in the north have signed a peace treaty."

Abel's smile vanished abruptly, his eyes narrowed, and he fell silent.

Tristan took a document from his sleeve and said calmly, "Oh, right, I also have a report I just received, about a recent evangelistic meeting in Twilight Town..."