Chapter 28

Chapter 28
## Chapter 28

Heinrich (1)

“You may pass.”

“Much obliged. Stay safe out there!”

Heinrich offered a respectful nod to the sentries guarding the perimeter of the seat of power before stepping through the gates.

Owing to the thorough preparations Heinz had arranged for him beforehand, his entry into the grand settlement went without a single hitch.

‘To be honest, stepping into this place makes me feel slightly on edge…’

Since crossings with high-ranking vampires of ancient lineage were far from rare in the vicinity of the grand settlement, suspicion and wariness naturally ran deep among the populace.

‘Yet, there isn’t a single proper grand house of worship dedicated to the Holy Faith anywhere else within the borders of the Talia Kingdom. While minor roadside shrines and small devotional chapels are scattered across the lands…’

Had my goal merely been to serve as a humble cleric or a standard defender of the faith, wandering into any ordinary shrine would have sufficed. However, to earn the mantle of a specialized holy warrior belonging to a dedicated martial order, entering the grand house of worship itself was absolutely mandatory.

Journeying to the holy sanctuaries located in neighboring realms would simply consume far too much precious time.

Besides, there was no ironclad guarantee that the specific strategy I had devised would yield the results I hoped for.

‘Let us test this approach immediately; if it proves fruitless, I will simply have to seek an alternative route.’

At that precise moment, the restoration period following the demise of my “Avatar” had finally concluded, granting me the capacity to manifest a fresh incarnation.

The ongoing concerns back on Earth could safely be left in the hands of that alternate self.

The perfect circumstances had been established for Heinrich to fully commit his focus to this side of the world.

I made my way directly toward the sanctuary of the Holy Faith that had been so thoughtfully detailed for me.

It was an imposing, sprawling structure situated on the outer ring of the grand settlement.

This very ground would serve as the backdrop where Heinrich, the aspiring holy warrior, would take his momentous first stride forward!

—

‘There was a time when my thoughts were quite that optimistic…’

Gaining entry into the Holy Faith itself did not present a significant hurdle.

I walked right into the sanctuary, surrendered a massive portion of wealth representing my entire material fortune as an offering, and declared my burning desire to join the ranks of their martial defenders.

Four weeks swiftly slipped by.

Now bearing the rank of a mere initiate, I found myself enduring rigorous martial drills at the training grounds located just beyond the sanctuary walls.

“Hey there, Heinrich! We are officially done with the drills for the day. Care to join me for a few drinks?”

“Ah, Max. You have my thanks, but I must decline for the foreseeable future. The upcoming trials are drawing near.”

“You truly never stop pushing yourself, do you? Then again, you did say your heart was set on becoming a true martial defender, right? Give it everything you’ve got. Just be sure not to overlook your old companions when you find success.”

Offering a hearty chuckle, Max turned on his heel and walked away, giving a casual wave of his hand.

Letting out a weary breath as I watched his departing figure, I redirected my steps toward the sanctuary’s grand collection of texts.

Alongside the relentless physical conditioning, there was an immense mountain of knowledge to absorb through diligent reading.

‘Then again, achieving the rank of a true martial defender was never meant to be an effortless journey.’

After all, these holy warriors did not hail from ordinary aristocratic lineages.

The elite defenders of the faith were held to an equally demanding standard.

To make matters worse, I had not even arrived as a genuine follower of their creed from the very start, which rendered the entire endeavor vastly more complicated.

In order to be recognized as a true holy warrior, I was required to grasp the fundamental tenets first, officially transition into a sworn member of the faith, and subsequently secure a formal endorsement to be chosen as a prospective candidate for knighthood.

The intricate ceremonies and deep theological principles of the Holy Faith felt entirely alien to my mind, to say nothing of the historical chronicles and sacred songs of praise.

It was quite literally enough to make my head throb from studying at such an unaccustomed stage in life.

While the benchmarks required to simply become a sworn member of the faith were not exceptionally steep, I had to constantly keep my eyes fixed on the steps that followed.

‘Even so, putting theological principles aside, merely gaining access to these specialized martial methodologies provides a significant edge. Once these arts are mastered, they will undoubtedly serve me well over the span of my life.’

I could not simply depend on summoning a different incarnation every single time a crisis presented itself.

Developing a foundational mastery of personal combat was absolutely critical, even when the surrounding environment was completely unfavorable.

In that regard, Heinrich possessed a distinct advantage in absorbing these martial techniques, courtesy of his inherent “Martial Prowess.”

‘…Perhaps for the time being, however, it would be wisest to dedicate my attention to mastering these theological principles…’

—

One afternoon, right in the middle of my deep immersion in physical drills and textual study, the sanctuary grounds suddenly erupted into a frenzy of commotion.

“What could possibly be causing such an uproar all at once?”

Concluding my independent training session, I walked toward the main entryway and spotted Max squeezed tightly into the middle of the massive gathering that had formed there.

“Max, the courtyard is remarkably chaotic today. Why has everyone gathered so suddenly? Do you happen to know what is going on?”

“Ah, Heinrich! Your timing is absolutely perfect! The High Prelate himself along with the Elite Defender Tooskin have just made their arrival!”

Shifting my gaze toward the path he was gesturing to, I observed a procession of figures crossing into the sanctuary grounds.

Yet, amidst the surging assembly, my eyes caught sight of an individual possessing a countenance I had never encountered before.

‘…Who exactly is that man?’

A seasoned, middle-aged warrior clad in immaculate, polished plate armor that bore the distinctive insignia of the Holy Faith.

He was the very individual who had commanded the holy warriors and cornered Hans in the past.

Now that I closely examined them, several of the holy warriors marching directly behind him struck a chord of familiarity within me.

“High Prelate Latius and Elite Defender Tooskin, the commanders who lead our sanctuary’s inner circle of holy warriors and sworn members, have finally journeyed back after completing a vital assignment.”

‘…I have a distinct feeling I understand the exact nature of that assignment.’

It could have been nothing other than the pursuit and capture of Hans.

Yet, more than two full months had slipped away since that initial violent encounter with the Holy Faith.

The realization that they were only just making their return to the sanctuary now…

‘Does this mean they kept up their relentless pursuit of Hans across that entire duration?’

My manifestation of Hans within the realm of Outerica on that particular day had lasted only for a fleeting window of time.

Its sole purpose had been to shift valuable keepsakes out of the dimensional vault and over to Earth.

The moment that manifestation was dissolved, no matter what tracking mechanisms they deployed, locating him became an absolute impossibility.

The sheer persistence they displayed was genuinely staggering.

“Word is circulating that several of the ranking members who accompanied them have returned as well. Shall we make our way over to pay our respects?”

Heeding Max’s query, I trailed closely behind him in hopes of gathering useful intelligence, yet a face-to-face encounter eluded us entirely.

Following such an exhausting trek across the lands, they required ample time to recuperate, or perhaps the strict regulations governing sanctuary safety barred any casual interactions.

However, the lingering sense of letdown did not endure for long…

By the following sunrise, a ranking member of the faith assembled all the initiates in one place to deliver a formal proclamation.

“An initiation rite will be conducted in the very near future for all initiates who have successfully satisfied the necessary benchmarks.”

A wave of whispered murmurs instantly rippled through the gathered assembly.

“Order, maintain order! I am fully aware that this comes far ahead of the anticipated timeline, but this directive flows directly from the upper echelons. This selection will extend beyond your ranks, as they intend to choose promising novices from among the cloistered ascetics as well. Dedicate yourselves fully to your duties in the brief time that remains.”

The moment the ranking member finished delivering the decree and dismissed the gathering, the initiates broke out into frantic chatter once more, discussing the news amongst themselves.

“Are we not still a couple of months away from the traditional initiation cycle? While achieving the status of a formal member ahead of schedule is a wonderful prospect, what could have prompted such a sudden shift?”

“Compressing the established timeline to this degree places an immense amount of pressure on everyone. Could there be some hidden motive behind it all?”

“…Could it be that they find themselves needing to rapidly bolster their martial strength?”

Indeed, an established protocol of this nature would never be altered without a compelling underlying catalyst.

It was highly probable that this decision tied directly back to the return of the specialized suppression force just yesterday.

‘Regardless of their motives, this presents an ideal scenario for me to drastically cut down on lost time.’

Within the confines of the Talia Temple, new formal members are selected by way of an initiation rite conducted once every half-year.

Under normal circumstances, two additional months of waiting should have remained, but the playing field had drastically shifted overnight.

‘Through the sacred initiation rite, every drop of essence residing within the physical vessel is utterly transmuted into holy energy… That acts as the very first threshold for anyone seeking to walk the path of a formal member.’

If I simply maintain the exact same level of dedication I have demonstrated up to this point, securing my advancement into the ranks of the formal members should pose no grand difficulty.

With that thought in mind, I pressed onward with my physical conditioning exactly as before.

Owing to the unyielding sweat and toil I had invested during that period, I comfortably locked down an assured slot for the upcoming initiation rite.

—

“I am fully aware that this request came at an incredibly disruptive time, yet I extend my deepest gratitude to you for overseeing it so graciously, Overseer Cromville.”

“Think nothing of it, High Prelate Latius. This endeavor is not merely a pressing requirement for our sacred Order. It yields immense benefits for our local Talia diocese as well.”

Moments before the grand initiation rite was set to commence, High Prelate Latius—the commander of the vanguard tasked with hunting down the legacy of the Undying Ruler across the entire expanse of the Talia Kingdom’s diocese—was engaged in a quiet dialogue with Overseer Cromville.

“The shadow of the vampires had burrowed far deeper into the very foundations of this domain than we had dared to assume at the outset. It was precisely because of this hidden rot that our vanguard sustained far heavier casualties during our tracking operations.”

“…You have my deepest regrets. From my position of authority over the spiritual welfare of the Talia diocese, it was my duty to have instituted rigorous defensive measures long before now.”

“No, the blame does not rest solely upon the shoulders of Overseer Cromville. The true failure lies with the central headquarters for neglecting to turn their gaze toward these borderlands sooner. I will make it my personal mission to ensure enhanced resources are directed toward this diocese as time goes on.”

“Your benevolence is deeply appreciated, High Prelate.”

Situated as a minor, modest territory along the outer boundaries, the Talia Kingdom had never been a place where the authority of the Sacred Faith held significant sway from its earliest days.

The ruling powers had reluctantly permitted only a single sanctuary to stand within the borders of the capital city.

The baseline requirements established for the holy practitioners stationed across this realm were barely sufficient to meet the absolute minimum standards.

“To swiftly mend the fractures left behind by our recent losses in personnel, keep the vampire factions thoroughly suppressed, and press forward with the hunt for the descendant of the Undying Ruler, amplifying the martial capacity of our Order is of paramount importance. Now that our diplomatic understandings with the crown of the Talia Kingdom have been solidified, our operations should proceed with far greater fluid ease moving forward.”

Throughout the course of those negotiations, a fair amount of statecraft and political maneuvering had to be deployed, yet it remained an entirely unavoidable course of action.

Even within the halls of governance, there was a natural aversion to the encroaching shadow of the vampires, meaning the secular authorities could not easily oppose the righteous crusade of an Order backed by divine mandate.

“The hour has arrived to commence the initiation rite. As we previously arranged, I shall personally step forward to take part in the proceedings.”

“…High Prelate, there is truly no pressing need for you to exhaust yourself by participating directly. With the combined assistance of the holy practitioners belonging to the vanguard force, conducting the sacred rite should proceed without any major complications.”

The entire rationale behind organizing these initiation rites at strictly regulated intervals was to streamline the logistical burden of the process.

To properly guide the ritual to completion, spiritual leaders holding at least the rank of a senior priest were required, which placed a heavy toll on their inner reserves.

Attempting to run these ceremonies in a haphazard or uncoordinated manner would inevitably lead to the total spiritual exhaustion of the upper-tier clergy.

“It brings me a measure of chagrin to admit it, but over two full months have slipped away since we lost the trail of the Undying Ruler’s descendant. We have found ourselves with very little to occupy our hands during this interim, so if my involvement can alleviate even a fraction of the strain…”

“If you frame the matter in such a light, then I shall gladly accept your generous support. Your presence will undeniably elevate the efficacy of the ritual.”

Engaged in their quiet exchange, the two men soon arrived at the entrance of a colossal, breathtaking cathedral hall.

Within its walls, a sea of individuals eagerly awaiting their transformation stood amidst a flurry of activity as presiding priests finalized the ritual arrangements.

“Ah! High Prelate Latius, Overseer Cromville. You have arrived right on time. Every single arrangement for the sacred rite has been brought to absolute readiness. We are prepared to begin at your command.”

One of the prominent spiritual leaders overseeing the logistics of the event caught sight of their approach, stepped forward, and delivered the update.

Latius offered a slow nod of acknowledgement before making his way up to the elevated platform overlooking the sanctuary floor.

Standing there, positioned before an audience numbering in the hundreds, he brought his palms together and sent a solemn plea toward the heavens.

“Almighty Divine, look down upon these children who have assembled within this sacred space to devote themselves to your eternal decree… Let your comforting embrace and divine benevolence be poured out upon them, and may your everlasting approval walk alongside your chosen sons and daughters. [Sanctuary of Blessing]”

The moment his invocation—which spanned roughly sixty seconds—came to its conclusion, a breathtaking, shimmering aura of pure holy energy burst forth from his form. It expanded until it filled every corner of the immense cathedral hall, wrapping the interior in a deeply spiritual light that seemed to bestow a heavenly grace upon everyone gathered within.

As the entire room watched on in absolute wonder, Overseer Cromville, who had been standing alongside the praying commander, took a deliberate step forward.

“Let the sacred initiation rite commence. Approach the altar one by one, and we shall proceed with the transformation.”

Though he spoke without raising his volume, the resonance of his words drifted clearly across the entire expanse of the hall, sharpening the focus of everyone present.

Without further delay, the structured proceedings swung into motion.

A line of roughly ten senior priests took up positions directly before the elevated platform, and the candidates, led forward by attending attendants, dropped to their knees one after another in front of them.

“By what name are you known?”

“I am Theron.”

“Oh, Lord of Light. Before us stands a seeker yearning to be held within your protective embrace and transformed into a beacon amidst the darkness of this world… In accordance with your divine decree, I petition for the authority to shepherd this soul who has wandered through the shadows. Theron, do you bind yourself to answer the call of the Divine?”

“I so swear.”

“Then offer your deepest reflections to the heavens. The Creator shall answer the purity of your devotion.”

The senior priests knelt down and gently rested their palms upon the crowns of the heads of those locked in deep devotion, guiding the initiation rite forward.

The unceasing torrent of holy energy surging through their fingertips flooded into the physical vessels of the candidates, soaking them in absolute purity.

The High Prelate’s active aura, the [Sanctuary of Blessing], continuously reinforced the entire operation, drastically reducing the physical and spiritual strain placed upon the clergy directing the ceremony.

The initiation rite moved steadily forward, processing the candidates in simultaneous groups of ten at a time.

As the candle wicks burned lower, those who had successfully undergone the transformation began to radiate a faint, distinct shimmer of holy energy.

This profound process required the total surrender of all personal internal life essence to the heavens, leaving them completely incapable of molding or altering raw internal energy ever again, yet simultaneously constructing a clean pathway to channel the raw power of the heavens.

Following the completion of the ritual, the newly transformed individuals found themselves struggling to find their balance amidst the sudden metamorphosis of their internal state, but with the steady guidance of the attending attendants, they were safely led to the recovery quarters.

Once a brief window for physical stabilization had passed, they would step forward as incredibly valuable additions to the defensive ranks of the Holy Faith.

Overseer Cromville let his gaze wander across the vast cathedral hall, where the sacred transformations were happening in rapid succession.

The ambient holy energy pouring from the newly initiated individuals was modest at best, scarcely matching the spiritual reserves typically found in a fresh apprentice cleric.

On rare occasions, an exceptional person might manifest a reservoir of power that completely eclipsed the baseline of a novice practitioner immediately following their transformation, but such occurrences were phenomenally anomalous.

‘They will steadily expand their capacities through the regular practice of devotion and intense mental conditioning. The deeper their internal conviction and psychological fortitude become, the more potent their command over holy energy will grow.’

As he watched the ritual unfold, he turned a deeply respectful gaze toward High Prelate Latius, who was currently leafing through ancient sacred manuscripts upon the elevated platform, and offered a silent word of gratitude.

Even though he, in his capacity as the leader of the local diocese, had been unable to provide physical aid for this abruptly scheduled event, observing the unwavering presence of the commander made him realize that all his underlying anxieties had been entirely groundless.

As the cycle of transformations pressed onward, Cromville suddenly detected an astonishing, violent spike in the surrounding holy energy.

“What is this?”

Instantly registering the sudden manifestation of an immense spiritual presence, Overseer Cromville snapped his gaze toward a specific corner of the room.

High Prelate Latius, who had kept his eyes gently shut upon the elevated platform while sustaining the overarching sacred boundaries, had likewise snapped his eyelids open and was now staring intently toward that exact same location.

Whshhh—

Spreading an intense, radiant wave of holy energy into the surrounding air, the candidate who had only just concluded his transformation stood before the altar.

His physical form appeared entirely indistinguishable from the numerous candidates who had preceded him, yet there was one undeniable, staggering distinction.

“By the heavens… to manifest such a profound depth of holy energy immediately upon completing the initiation… It appears his baseline matches the full stature of a seasoned practitioner.”

An intermediate tier of spiritual authority resting squarely between a standard cleric and the senior priests who were actively directing the ritual.

This was the precise magnitude of holy energy that Heinrich had successfully unlocked the very instant his transformation was complete.