As she stepped into the city square, walking alongside Roland, Sif finally couldn't help but ask, "Did you really receive the Goddess of Light's protection?"
"Whether it's true or false doesn't matter; what matters is that others believe it."
Roland explained with a smile, "That statement will become a blade hanging over the Rurik People. As long as I survive the next few conflicts, they'll automatically feel weaker when facing me."
Sif wanted to say something but stopped.
Roland was right; the weight of that statement would only grow as Roland continued to survive in harsh struggles.
But it would also double the danger Roland faced.
Sif said nothing, just extended her right hand to shake Roland's.
Her palm was damp with nervous sweat.
Earlier, watching Roland confront Sahalin head-on, her heart had been in her throat.
She worried every second that Roland might scream in agony, but her fear dissipated as the golden light rose.
Roland had won.
