In Dante's final ritual to complete the Trial of Illumination, the atmosphere was filled with a mix of anticipation and nostalgia. As he stood in the center of the field, surrounded by six individuals, the vast crowd of Holy Mystics that had initially gathered dispersed, leaving only those closest to him.
"Sister Silmara," Dante called out, seeking her attention. "It's time for the ritual of completion."
Silmara stepped forward and addressed Dante, her voice carrying a sense of reverence. "That was your first trial, the Trial of Illumination. It may not have been what you expected, but remember that insight and guidance are equally significant in the quest for enlightenment."
Dante nodded, reflecting on his initial expectations of a grand monster hunt and how it had turned into a more introspective journey with the assistance of a Holy Paladin. Silmara's words resonated with him, reminding him of the lessons he had learned along the way.
As the ritual proceeded, Dante found himself once again at the center of attention. Marvia, a nurturing figure who had accompanied him throughout his journey, approached him.
She adjusted his white robe adorned with nature-inspired embellishments and placed a crown of leaves upon his head. "I'm proud of you, my light," she said with a gentle smile. "This is only the first step of your destined path."
Dante's gaze shifted, and he noticed the High Archdruid and his daughter in attendance, despite their affiliation with the Druidian Religion.
It was a rare and special occasion, symbolizing the harmonious relationship between the nation of Sylvanalia and the Verdant Doves.
The High Archdruid's daughter, with long white hair and eyes that conveyed power and fierceness, wore a gown made of the prestigious Grumblethorn fur.
Her presence captivated Dante, and she waved her hand at him, acknowledging his achievements.
At that moment, Dante's thoughts veered toward a darker revelation. He realized that the High Archdruid had intentionally undermined an expedition, sacrificing the lives of his warriors and leading the unified forces to abandon the mission.
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The underlying motive for this act was the preservation of an ancient secret, even though the Circle of Elders had compelled him to undertake the expedition due to the Grove Guardian's rampage in the temple.
The realization cast a shadow of doubt on the motivations and integrity of those in positions of authority.
Dante proceeded with the Trial.
Trials in the world of Gomorrah were taken very seriously.
Passing a Trial that is recognized by the Holy System meant that it could be used to qualify as a requirement to be able to handle powerful sacred relics, enter Guardian-protected sacred sites, access the magic of Higher-tier invocations, and graduate from academies and apprenticeships of the Church of the Holy System.
"One trial down. How many more to go?" he thought worriedly.
Silmara stepped forward once more, standing in front of Dante as she opened her shimmering Scriptures.
Raising Dante's right hand, she proclaimed with unwavering conviction, "Oh Holy System, I present to you, Dante de Monfort! He stands before you, a beacon of enlightenment, having transcended the arduous Trial of Illumination. Grant him your divine favor and embrace his triumphant journey, for he has emerged from the crucible of challenges with unwavering resilience and profound knowledge. May his radiant spirit guide us all on the path of enlightenment and inspire us to seek the truth within your grand design. Grant him divine favor!"
They all echoed in unison, their voices filled with fervor, "Grant him divine favor!"
In an instant, a blinding burst of light enveloped them, forcing them to shield their eyes.
With closed eyes, Dante saw the message on his screen:
[Trial of Illumination Completed]
[Updating Scripture Records]
[Trial of Illumination Added]
[NEW! Charism: Gift of Discernment]
[Gift of Discernment: Increases ability to recognize and distinguish the nature of beings whether they are holy, human, or demonic]
As Dante opened his eyes, he found himself perceiving everyone and everything in a new light.
The gathered individuals erupted in applause and celebration, honoring Dante's completion of the Trial of Illumination. Trela, who had traveled tirelessly across continents to be present, ran towards Dante, embracing him tightly.
"Congratulations, Dante! You did it! You passed your first trial," Trela exclaimed with genuine excitement and joy.
As Dante hugged her back, he couldn't help but notice something peculiar.
He sensed how something was off.
"Trela?" Dante was a little bit disturbed.
Trela, looking at Dante with a smile, asked playfully, "Yeah, little shit? Hahaha! What is it?"
Dante moved back from Trela who he treated as his big sister. "It's nothing." He smiled nervously.
"By the way, I discussed with the High Archdruid, Trel. You're going to love this."
"Yeah?"
"High Archdruid said that the nation of Sylvanalia won't be having direct trade relations with the Alchemist Merchant League due to political reasons. So I recommended our merchant trade to replace them! We are moving up the ladder!"
"Really!" Trela excitingly replied. So why are you crying?
Tears were running down Dante's cheeks.
"Nothing... nothing..." He murmured softly. "It's tears of joy."
Dante hugged Trela tighter. And regretted his hesitation.
"Nothing, big sis. I'm sorry for worrying you."
He hugged Trela with both arms and she lifted him like the child that he is.
As Dante hugged her tightly, he could see his father, Conrad, staring at Dante with a face of pity, like he knew everything from the start.
Dante wiped the tears in his eyes and the message on the screen became even clearer.
[Gift of Discernment Activated: Demonic Being Detected]