Inside the ancient palace, the atmosphere was tense and oppressive.
Pope Crete wore a purple-and-gold crown and an ornate robe. He looked at you kindly. “Child, you are the chosen one. You should inherit the papacy and lead the empire toward a new age of glory.”
You furrowed your brow slightly and regarded them warily. “Why me? What have I done to deserve such a responsibility?”
A towering cardinal stepped forward with a smile. “You are exceptionally gifted. This is the will of the God of Light.”
You gave a cold laugh and retorted, “The will of the God of Light? Or is this for your own benefit?”
Pope Crete's expression darkened slightly. “Insolence! Everything we do is for the future of the Empire of Light. Do you mean to defy the will of the gods?”
You answered without fear, “I will never be anyone's pawn. My path will always be mine to choose!”
