“I don’t get this anymore…’

Giving up internally, I looked at the pope. He was probably going to call off the marriage, or at least put it on hold because of this big mess.

“What the fu—” When I saw the look on the man’s face, I realized that he was relishing the situation.

So many people were against our union, and it seemed even more were expressing their displeasure as time passed.

‘I don’t know what this situation is based on, but it makes no sense at all! I don’t even understand how this will lead us to get the Arcana.’

I followed logic and rational thought in my thinking process, but everything was so random—almost as though an idiot came up with the script.

‘According to Merlin, he made the Labyrinth Of Despair to challenge people who would be worthy to obtain Strength… so that means whoever made this place is also an Apostle of Aether…’

Why he would generate a simulation like this was something I couldn’t figure out.

“Very well. Since there are so many opposed to the marriage, there is only one option.”

‘Will we have to fight? Maybe silence the opposition? What could it be?’ I thought anxiously as I watched the Pope widen his smile.

The audience also fell silent, strangely enough.

Their discord became harmonious, and it seemed they also agreed with the Pope’s declaration.

‘These guys… they’re all in this together.’ I suspiciously glared at the audience and the Pope.

It was a terribly made scenario, if I was being honest.

But, it was better to follow it to get what I wanted.

“The only way to prove the strength of your bond and silence your opposition is by going through the trials of the Pope.”

I gulped.

Were we going to fight him?

I began sizing the Pope up. He didn’t look particularly strong, but… I couldn’t take any chances.

It was weak-looking folks like him that ended up wielding great power.

“You will confess in the trial, and your confession shall be your justification.”

‘Wait, confess? As in a confession? I don’t get it. Is this going to be a—”

“That’s right, ladies and gentlemen! Let’s get ready for a lovely game ooooofffff….” The Pope suddenly changed his tone, and before I knew it, my position and Maria’s were altered.

We were suddenly seated on respective chairs, facing the audience. We were also strapped to our seats, and I couldn’t break free.

‘What the hell?’

Everyone who watched from the pews looked excited. Their faces were flushed with anticipation as the Pope seemed to drag on his sentence for a more powerful effect.

“… Truth or Share!!!”

“WOOOHOOOOOOO!!!” The congregation smiled and cheered as soon as the Pope said that.

“… Eh?”

“It’s a simple game, really. You either tell the truth when a question is answered… or you share a deep, dark secret with your partner.”

‘What in the—?!’

“The rules will be displayed right in front of you. Make sure you read them well. You have one minute to prepare, and the game begins in earnest.”

I glanced in Maria’s direction, worried and surprised. She also gave the same look, but before either of us could communicate, a large panel appeared before us.

Seeing that we had limited time, we both decided to read the rules first.

Truth or Share: Rules Of The Game

We have two young people who want to be wed in Holy Matrimony.

But, being bound for life can be very hard and unsatisfying if you don’t know enough about your partner.

Plus, so many people are against your union.

Prove them all wrong and show the power of your bond!

Let true love prevail!

1. You must not speak to your partner throughout the game.

2. You will take turns asking your questions, and the other party will have to choose between telling the truth or sharing a secret.

3. Honesty is the best policy. You should never tell a lie, or else…

4. Do not ask silly questions or tell silly secrets. The questions and answers must be strong enough to convince the audience of the depth of your love.

5. Telling a lie or failing to meet the criteria of these rules will mean immediate disqualification. You won’t be allowed to step foot in this cathedral any longer.

If you do well and prove your faith, the Pope himself will bless you with his Gift.

Enjoy The Game

I was appalled by the conditions.

Initially thinking we could just get away with asking silly questions, my reality was shattered upon discovering that things weren’t as simple as I had hoped.

‘I can’t even communicate with Maria? Shit!’

I wondered what would have happened if I decided to come alone.

Would the trial have been different? Or would the Cathedral not have allowed me to enter at all?

I was confounded, but I still had no choice but to play the game.

After all… the note at the end of the rules mentioned being given a ‘gift’ by the Pope.

It was most likely going to be an Arcana.

‘Let’s just get this over with…’ I sighed and glanced at Maria.

She also had a determined look on her face, so we decided to give it our best shot.

“Alright folks, looks like we’re ready to begin!” The Pope appeared again.

He seemed too different from the calm man from earlier.

Now, he just seemed like a wild game moderator, trying to fire everyone up for the game he created.

‘This guy…’

“Our audience is ready, and our young couple are also ready. Now then… shall we start?”

My heart thumped hard and fast for some odd reason.

This was a simple trial for getting my prize, but for some reason, it felt more than that. Having to be open to someone… being so vulnerable… it felt strange.

Too strange.

“As the saying goes, ‘Ladies first.'” The Pope announced, giving Maria the first go.

I gulped, turning the gears in my head so I could provide the most optimal answer.

*

*

*

A

/N

If you enjoy this book, I know another one you’d love just as much.

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Cheers!