Chapter 316.1
Naturally, there was no way Ciero could have evaded the Inquisitor.
When Ciero said he would “prepare to receive the Inquisitor” and went to gather his belongings, the Inquisitor was already waiting there.
The only saving grace was that Ciero’s actions were so delayed that it looked as if he had come to meet them, rather than being caught while attempting to flee.
“Priest Ciero, it’s an honor to meet you. My name is Saltna Culvain.”
The man who greeted him politely was a man in his thirties with a broad build and an ordinary, gentle appearance—hardly what one would expect of an Inquisitor.
However, the moment Ciero saw the red raven insignia on his shoulder, he felt as if his breath had been taken away.
Among Inquisitors, those who belonged to the central branch and worked directly under the Holy See were known as the executioners of the Church. This insignia was their symbol.
When Ciero froze and couldn’t even greet him properly, Saltna clapped his hands with a gentle smile. It was only then that Ciero snapped back to his senses and managed to catch his breath.
“It seems I startled you by coming unexpectedly. But there’s no need to be tense. We did not come here just to see you, Priest Ciero. Well, I suppose I can’t say ‘not at all.’ We’re also here to commend your excellent character and achievements.”