The style of the church interior was still plain but dignified, with quite a few exquisite decorations. There were murals on the walls, the largest of which was a beautiful shade of blue, seemingly depicting the history of the town.
In the corner, two people and a snake looked around but didn't draw attention from other believers.
"What's up with that monk? He was overly enthusiastic, right?" Sitting down, the little girl no longer maintained a cold expression and let out a sigh of relief.
"Indeed... No wonder Grandpa told me to be wary of the church," the Hero, regaining her composure, said with a wry smile.
Almost changed professions on the spot here, that was close.
"But, sister, even though he seemed that way, the church might actually suit you quite well." After making a jest about the receptionist, the little girl began her analysis.
"Oh? Why is that?" The Hero sat up straight to listen.
"Because the church itself doesn't worship any deity, but rather believes in ideals.
"There are many factions within the church, and although their ideals differ, their starting point is generally positive. Simply put, it's about 'making the kingdom more prosperous' and 'making the world a better place.' Under this general direction, there are many different sects and professions."
The little girl spoke naive words that seemed a bit out of place with the solemn interior before her.
"Faithful Sect, Nature Sect, Justice Sect....
"The charitable Healing Nun, the Battle Nun who exorcises evil spirits and demons, the priest in the military camps wielding flails and page hammers...
"Although these professions have little to do with Sister Hero now, the Nature Sect of the church also has Druids proficient in transformation. They advocate protecting nature and creating a more livable environment for humankind. Of course, the 'balance' of monster ecology is also a part of it.
"The Holy Paladins who take oaths, the organized Holy Knight Order, are indispensable power at the border; vampire hunters and demon hunters operating within the kingdom also belong to the church."
The little girl ticked off each one on her fingers, enlightening the Hero.
"Although all six major guilds are important, in the border regions, the church can be said to be particularly significant. Um, my daddy said it's mainly because the church doesn't need him to spend money on training their people.
"And Sister Hero's goal is to exterminate Goblins. Even though the church probably doesn't have a faction solely dedicated to killing Goblins, they would certainly be willing to provide support. After all, Goblins are undoubtedly classified as evil creatures.
"However, most of the church's work is unpaid volunteer labor, at least when it comes to conquering evil and resisting disasters.
"Although many people aren't fond of it, they have become the most widespread force among the six major guilds, which means within the kingdom, no matter where Sister Hero needs to go to kill Goblins, she's likely to receive support from the church."
"Wow..." The Hero couldn't help but exclaim in admiration.
[Hero's excitement (Goblins!+30)]
D100+30=d100(85)+30=115
"Lastly, there's one more thing, and it's the most important." The little girl raised her last finger.
"Is there more?" The Hero asked in surprise.
"Yes, the church is the only place among all professional guilds where you can take on the profession of 'Hero.'"
The little girl straightened her back, her tone carrying a touch of solemnity and respect.
Not out of revenge, but rather due to lofty ideals and a spirit of devotion, dedicating one's life to the struggle against magic creatures—the "determined" Hero.
[Little Girl's recommendation (Border+10, Goblins+10, Hero+10)]
D100+30=d100(56)+30=86
After listening to the little girl's detailed explanation, the Hero was visibly swayed, almost deciding then and there to take up employment.
However, her grandfather's admonition echoed in her mind, and she managed to suppress this irrational impulse.
Moreover, while the little girl had analyzed many advantages, she hadn't mentioned any drawbacks.
Considering the earlier reception that was almost maliciously enthusiastic, and her grandfather's warning, perhaps the church wasn't as flawless as it seemed?
"It sounds like there's nothing unsuitable, but does the church really have no drawbacks?" The Hero asked uncertainly.
"Not exactly, I'm just about to mention the downsides." The little girl shook her head.
"Firstly, the church is the place with the most rules among all guilds.
"After all, the church focuses on the power of the spirit and is the most organized of the six major guilds.
"I heard that the church is divided into the Inner Court and the Outer Court. If you join the Outer Court, it's fine; if you don't plan to pursue in-depth study within the church, you can leave after changing professions like in other guilds, and there won't be much further connection.
"But if you join the Inner Court, you're subject to the church's assignments and deployments; you'll basically be a part of the church for the rest of your life."
"For life? That's a bit..." The Hero blinked, feeling she'd finally heard a rather serious drawback.
"Yes, and even though there's no worship of deities, the church still requires adherence to a collective will.
"Even if you join the Outer Court, if you violate the most basic principles of the church, you may be declared a heretic and become hunted by the Judgement Court and the Tribunal.
"And because of their high ideals, the church sometimes gives rise to many radical factions.
"Although I don't think Sister Hero would have such concerns..."
After all, becoming a Hero just to kill Goblins was already radical enough.
The little girl didn't voice this thought; she gave a cute little cough, continuing.
"Also, their 'Divine Arts,' although another form of spell, often require a strong will and test your 'faith' in matters.
"A Mage's spellcasting requires rationality, a Magician relies on instinct, but the church's spells demand the power of the spirit. If your heart isn't strong enough, they won't accept you."
It's also due to these factors that she hadn't expressed a strong recommendation.
The Hero nodded, somewhat understanding.
"In any case, let's first go see a Professional Tutor."
1. Professional Tutor Second Transformation LV30
2. Cruising bishop Third Ascension LV50♛
[Mentor's Approval (Attribute Pass+20, Extraordinary Physique+20, Inferno Bloodline+40, Faithless-30)]
D100+50=d100(98)+50=148
Guided by a church Nun, the two found the Professional Tutor, only to freeze in their tracks before even speaking.
"Please—by all means!"
The receptionist who had just been leading them at the door was now clad in a holy and dignified robe.
He stood where the Professional Tutor was supposed to be, his entire being surging with Magic Power, enveloped in Holy Light, exuding a visibly intense aura.
But in contrast to this aura was his desperate pleading expression and nearly groveling posture.
"By all means!! By all means!!
"Become a member of our church!!!"
Both the Hero and the little girl were stunned by this astonishing scene.
[Cruising bishop's recognition Critical Success!]
[What is the reason?]
2. Saintess Selection
4. Destiny's Prophecy...?
9. Saintess's Divine Prophecy♛
10. Critical Success/Extreme Failure