Most importantly, Andrew somehow remained calm and composed as he faced the Cathedral's white tide, completely unfazed. Besides, everything he said hit the mark perfectly, leaving Kass with no response. They had managed to take down Storm City, yet this puny Abyss City had proven to be an iron wall.

Kass was reluctant, but he chose to accept reality. He said, "Fine, we'll do as you say. The Cathedral will bypass Abyss City and continue our assault on Throne City. But Andrew, you're now a regional warlord in your own right. I hope you'll stick to what you just said and avoid further conflict with the Cathedral.

"And I, in the name of the Cathedral's Holy Lord, promise you that without explicit orders from above, we won't attack Abyss City again."

Andrew smiled. "Now that's more like it, Cardinal. Let's all go our separate ways. Here's to wishing you success in taking Throne City soon."

Watching Andrew swagger back to Abyss City, Kass stood there with rapidly shifting expressions, l