Chapter 120: Priests of the God of Lies and Deception (5)
Every church, including the Church of Kalosia, had its own ceremonial etiquette. Given that most religious orders boasted centuries of history, it made sense for each to possess a unique set of customs and formalities. However, almost no one actually followed these rituals anymore. Even Naflas hadn’t bothered using Kalosia’s ceremonial greetings when meeting Barbosa or Milayna.
It was because outside the church itself, hardly anyone knew these rites existed.
There were countless churches in the world, and unless it was one of the major faiths such as the Sun God’s or the Earth Goddess’s, few bothered to learn some lesser-known group’s protocols. Thus, most people saw no point in using them. However, Ketal was now performing Kalosia’s etiquette with flawless precision.
Even after he took a seat, Naflas couldn’t stop thinking about it.
“How did you... learn Kalosia’s ceremonial greeting?” Naflas asked, sounding rattled.
“I heard it from Hayes a while back,” Ketal answered, smiling in satisfaction. “Judging by your reaction, I’m glad I didn’t get it wrong.”
Naflas’s eyes widened. He assumed that must have happened back in the Barcan Estate. Naflas couldn’t believe this barbarian remembered their church’s rites so perfectly, even though so much time had passed.
Ketal’s low voice broke into Naflas’s thoughts. “Let me make something clear. I do not worship any god.”
Naflas said nothing, listening intently.
“Still,” Ketal continued, “that doesn’t mean I can’t follow another faith’s ceremonial etiquette. You serve Kalosia. I think it’s only proper to show you respect.”
Naflas’s expression softened in quiet awe. He didn’t expect he’d receive respect from a barbarian, of all people. Ketal had made a favorable impression on Naflas. Realizing he might be losing objectivity, Naflas forced himself to remain calm with a quick cough.
“Hayes told me a bit about you. She said you cleared a Dungeon together in Barcan Estate.”