The first one chosen was a seafolk called Iron Shield. He was a sturdy man of great fortitude, and his firm and resolute face revealed his great willpower. He was brought away from the underground chamber, but what happened afterwards actually left him perplexed. However, as he saw the bustling priests around him and their serious expressions, he took a breath and cast away all extraneous thoughts, fully coordinating with the requests from the priests.

First, he bathed and changed clothes.

Iron Shield soaked in a hot bath for almost two whole hours and scrubbed himself until he was very red, just like a boiled shrimp. Then, he put on a thin outer coat and was brought to another sealed off chamber. Really, there was nothing but a thin outer coat, so when he walked he inevitably felt a cold wind all around him, making him subconsciously clamp his legs together.

What followed was a sumptuous banquet with a number of expensive tonics included. Iron Shield thought that this might be the last meal he would ever eat, so he didn’t hold himself back. He freed his arms and ate until he was full. It was only when his cheeks were red and he burped that he stopped. It was like there was a fire lit inside his body, and his mouth was a bit dry, making him feel uncomfortable.

Then, as if seeing...