Chapter 7: Fate’s Test

The eighteen Saints panicked, trying to return to Mansfield and Purcell. I struck one with each blow; soon, fewer than eight remained. Their screams echoed through the cathedral, a chorus of regret and terror.

"Monkey, now is the time to burn Mount Providence."

I reminded him—not to forget arson while killing. The thought of burning the church’s holy land filled me with excitement.

Grant Baxter danced, ready to set fire. A large white jade vase blocked his way—Lady Grace’s lamb-fat jade purification vase. Finally, a church Saint appeared.

The flames flickered in Grant’s eyes as he squared off against the vase, grinning like a madman.

Grant Baxter and I looked at the monkey. "Didn’t you kill her just now?"

The monkey waved his hand. "Don’t look at me. Lady Grace exiled herself to Putnam Mountain long ago, one of the Five Elders. I really don’t get why she saved that thief who stole the cassock, or the goldfish that ate so many children in Carter Village!"

He shrugged, his face unreadable—a riddle wrapped in fur.

"Those who block the way must die."

Now that I’ve gathered ten generations of Golden Soul, my strength is transformed. Even the renowned Lady Grace, I dare face.

My grip tightened on the staff, adrenaline surging. The crowd parted, sensing the storm about to break.