Chapter 11:

Chapter 11:

Chapter 11. The Holy Body (3)

A body where a miracle has occurred is called a ‘Holy Body’ in the Codex of Light.

As the term ‘Holy Body’ was mentioned, the monastery’s abbot fell into a moment of silence. However, Gebel quickly continued.

“I saw a person who manifested a Holy Body when I was young. Overnight, they possessed abilities beyond verbal explanation. Isaac is young and small in stature, so it’s this much for now, but as he grows, it will manifest more strongly.”

“Indeed, his appearance is not that of an ordinary child...”

Isaac’s surreal appearance even baffled the abbot. Frankly, it seemed more plausible that his appearance itself could be a Holy Body rather than just his ability to lift a heavy ax. But under Gebel’s intense gaze, the abbot cleared his throat.

“Miracles are granted through achievements, and a Holy Body manifests through divine revelation. If Isaac truly is a Holy Body, we must consider it carefully. It’s not a matter we can decide lightly.”

There are indeed many people in the world who possess miracles. People who have entered burning furnaces and come out alive, those who can move incredibly fast over long distances, and even those who have returned from death. Monks can even routinely perform the miracle of lighting candles.

But those with a manifested Holy Body are fundamentally different. The Church calls them individuals born into the world with a mission.

Born with miracles without any achievements, they are undoubtedly messengers sent by God to fulfill a divine mission.

Many holders of a Holy Body have ascended to sainthood or left significant marks in history. Some even reached the rank of angels.

Therefore, the manifestation of a Holy Body isn’t something to be decided lightly; it requires the Church’s recognition. It’s a matter that could shake the direction of the Church.

It indicates the direction of God’s will.

But Gebel answered coldly.

“Do you trust the ‘Lamps Underneath the Blind’?”

‘Lamps Underneath the Blind’ was a euphemism for high priests of the Codex of Light. It means that though they are closest to the light, they are blinded by its brilliance, unable to see even their feet.

Gebel despised the Church’s high priests.

That’s also why he deliberately hid Isaac in the monastery when he found him.

“If Isaac is truly a Holy Body and recognized as a divine messenger, he will ultimately be used politically, according to their whims. Isaac may be precocious for his age, but he’s still a child.”

Let’s say Isaac is a Holy Body with innate strength. Those who want war will interpret his existence as a call to vanquish the Church’s enemies, and those who want the status quo will see it as a sign to flaunt the prosperity of the Baije Empire.

The scale might tip somewhat, but eventually, the stronger side will prevail.

The abbot somewhat agreed with Gebel’s view. He too disliked the politics of the central Church, which is why he came to an outlying monastery.

“So, what do you propose?”

“I’m suggesting we be cautious before others discover Isaac’s identity. That’s all, Abbot.”

Gebel’s voice was filled with tension.

“Of course, all the monks here are good people, and the children are innocent. But the monastery isn’t just them.”

To operate the monastery, continuous donations from the village or trade with merchants are necessary. Lost travelers or pilgrims might visit, and there could be visits from neighboring monasteries or the Church hierarchy.

“At least until Isaac is over 16, we can consider the timing. If the world knows about him now...”

Gebel stopped, unable to continue. The abbot sighed deeply.

“As you know, hiding a Holy Body is like hiding God’s will from the world.”

“I am aware, Abbot.”

“Then you shouldn’t have told me.”

Gebel bowed to the abbot.

In truth, he was conflicted. He had hoped Isaac would be a Holy Body since Kalsen’s disappearance, but accepting this reality now was difficult.

‘If only it had been certain from the beginning.’

A Holy Body is often described as the will of God manifested in human flesh. As a former paladin, Gebel should receive this devoutly. However, having been close to Isaac for so long, he now felt fear at the thought of the young boy bearing such a heavy mission.

Therefore, Gebel wanted to confide and accept this truth with someone he could trust the most.

‘I didn’t expect this kind of situation, though I wasn’t hoping for special treatment.’

The new information was surprising, but nothing had changed. However, he knew how to act if an unforeseen situation arose.

Historically, the life of a young child hiding their identity was as precarious as a candle in the wind.

And if that candle managed to survive, it could become a fire that engulfs the world.

***

“I’ll teach you swordsmanship.”

The next morning.

Already aware of this, Isaac was not greatly surprised. However, he pretended to be pleased, so as not to arouse Gebel’s suspicion.

“But there’s a condition.”

“A condition?”

“Avoid unnecessarily displaying your strength elsewhere, like when you lifted the axe yesterday. You understand what I mean?”

It meant not to speak of the miracles he performed.

‘Although, strictly speaking, it’s more a monster’s power than a miracle.’

Isaac was actually glad about Gebel’s words.

He had shown his strength, trusting that the unsociable Gebel wouldn’t go around talking about it. Besides, Gebel’s identity as a deserted holy knight was also better kept out of unnecessary attention.

The same went for Isaac.

Isaac knew that the strength he showed was not a miracle, but a trick using a tentacled monster. If he was thoroughly investigated by the higher order, he’d end up as a well-cooked barbecue.

‘I was just about to enjoy the easy life here and then make my escape. This is perfect.’

“Yes, that’s fine.”

Isaac readily agreed, causing Gebel to look at him curiously.

“You accept it quite readily.”

‘Maybe I agreed too easily?’

It was an age when he should have been starved for attention.

But Isaac brazenly responded.

“If I said no, you wouldn’t teach me swordsmanship, right?”

Gebel had actually intended to teach Isaac swordsmanship regardless of his response. It was to reduce Isaac’s time with others, preventing the accidental reveal of his holy body. He also hoped Isaac would learn some means of protecting himself when he eventually left the monastery.

“Well, fine.”

Gebel said this while taking out the hand axe he had stuck into the firewood yesterday.

“Let’s start with this.”

“An axe? Am I to lift it again?”

“No. There’s no sword that fits you right now. My sword is too long and ill-suited for your hand. Until your body grows properly, you’ll practice with whatever you can hold.”

The monastery had no real weapons, only clubs or staff. Of course, Gebel had several spare weapons prepared for emergencies, but none were suitable for Isaac.

“A weapon can break or get damaged easier than you think. In battle, you must be able to fight with whatever you can grab. After all, the basics of all weapons are the same.”

“The basics?”

“To strike the enemy quickly with the sharp end.”

Gebel gripped the hand axe and focused ahead.

Gone was the Gebel who used to handle menial tasks at the monastery.

In his place stood a battle-worn, veteran Paladin.