It wasn't until Rod stepped into the firelight of the garrison that the tense atmosphere finally eased a bit.
Three bishops approached with lanterns and Curse-breaking Stones to check if his soul had been polluted or distorted.
This was a step only taken in extremely dangerous areas to ensure the worst-case scenario wouldn't occur.
Rod naturally wasn't polluted; his soul showed absolute purity during the examination.
Mephit did not undergo the check, as her soul was heavily cursed, rendering any test inaccurate.
If not for Rod's guarantee, a person like her would never be allowed in the team.
After passing the check, Rod took off the lantern from his waist, and someone immediately came to refill the Fuel Element, while another handed over clean water and steaming hot food.
—In such expeditions, the importance of food and water is second only to lanterns and Fuel Elements.
