If anyone ever asked Edelgard about her childhood, she would always change the subject for all of the memories were too painful to talk about: Erik screaming as they opened his chest with those knives to implant the Crest, Silvia begging for mercy when they tried to take her away, and all the other siblings who met a similar fate. She often wondered why she was the only one who survived, but any thought of that quickly disappeared when she saw her father who was feeling pain just like her.
The once benevolent Emperor that she had hoped would bring change to the Empire had become nothing more than a puppet in her "uncle's" hands - an insult that Edelgard vowed he would pay for all the atrocities he committed to her family. But those nightmares slowly faded away, replaced by something far stranger.
Edelgard found herself on a battlefield, leading an army that had not been seen for many centuries. The cold air was still and humid from the morning fog blowing off the nearby sea. Her classmates stood beside her as well – walking by her side – a dream that she barely hoped would come true but for now, she would let herself enjoy this. The tide of battle turned in their favor and the enemy's numbers began to dwindle. Cheers rose from the army as their soldiers pushed forward, until finally their victory was announced. The air was filled with triumphant shouting and jubilation, save for one person among them.
Instead of enjoying the victory, the man was kneeling and embracing the lifeless bodies before him Edelgard watched as tears spilled from his grief-stricken face and she understood that they must have been comrades. A complex mixture of emotions filled her; a strange regret mixed with curiosity. She strained to catch a glimpse of the figure, but the darkness shielded it from her view. Suddenly, he threw back his head and released a sorrowful scream that echoed across the battlefield and cried desperately.
"It always… ends like this!"
Edelgard stared wide-eyed at the scene before her, unable to comprehend what she was seeing. Questions tumbled through her mind as a strange thought crossed her consciousness: Could this be her future? But it felt too surreal as if she had already experienced it before. As she and her friends were reaching out for the man, the dream grew fainter and seemed to dissolve into nothingness. She frantically tried to grab onto something, any shred of information that would anchor her in reality. But his figure faded further away until she felt herself falling into an endless void.
A figure then appeared in front of Edelgard, and she gasped at the sight. Before she stood a silver-haired woman wearing red armor, with a crown adorned with golden horns that sat atop two high buns. The woman carried herself with an air of authority and maturity, yet Edelgard could sense a hint of sadness in her eyes. Edelgard thought she was going mad – if her theory was correct then this had to be a vision of herself from the future.
The woman smiled sadly and inclined her head, and Edelgard could hear guilt and regret dripping from her voice as she spoke. Edelgard listened intently until she felt herself drifting away into wakefulness.
"Do you remember?"
11th of Blue Sea Moon, 1180
Rubbing her temples, Edelgard slowly rose from her bed and tried to piece together the fragments of her dream. The memories were fuzzy, leaving her with more questions than answers, causing a heavy sigh to escape her lips. She glanced at the window and saw the bright moon still shining in the sky, but she couldn't shake off the feeling that she needed some fresh air.
Slipping into her uniform, Edelgard pushed open the door to her room and strode down the familiar halls of the Monastery. The weight of her duties lifted slightly as she indulged in a rare moment of leisure, something she rarely allowed herself to do. But despite this brief respite, her mind kept drifting back to the mysterious dream that still lingered in her thoughts.
Some would say it was a vision from the Goddess or some other higher power, foretelling the fate of a chosen individual. But Edelgard refused to place her destiny in the hands of such fickle beings, especially not the Goddess who had abandoned her family when they needed her most. Lost in these thoughts, she suddenly heard clanging metal coming from the Training Field, piquing her curiosity and drawing her steps toward it.
The moon hung high in the night sky, casting its ethereal glow upon the Training Field at Garreg Mach Monastery. Under this celestial canopy, Bylass- the professor of her class, and Byleth- her enigma classmate, converged for a training session. The air was thick with anticipation as the two former mercenaries drew their swords, the metallic glint reflecting the moon's radiance. The Training Field, bathed in nocturnal silence, bore witness to a display of skill that was more than a clash of blades—it was a dance of finesse and strategy.
Their duel commenced, and the night came alive with the rhythm of their movements. Bylass flowed with a dancer's grace, dodged his attack skillfully, and returned the favors with continuous strikes. Yet, as if he could foresee her movements, Byleth countered each strike of hers with a precision that bordered on instincts, each movement calculated and deliberate.
Their footwork was a ballet, an intricate choreography of steps and lunges across the field. The dance of their swords painted an elegant tapestry, each strike and parry a stroke in a masterpiece only they could comprehend. It was not just a contest of strength; it was a testament to their shared mastery, a silent dialogue conducted through the art of combat.
Edelgard hid behind the pillar and watched the duel silently with shock and admiration. Despite witnessing their swordsmanship so many times, she still felt both of them were holding back during the exercises as they often were in passive stances. However, at this moment, the two of them battled each other with all their might. Their swords sang in the night, a melodic harmony of clashes and parries. Each strike seemed to reverberate with a shared understanding—a connection that transcended words, an unspoken bond woven through their mutual pursuit of martial excellence.
As the duel reached its zenith, their blades collided in a brilliant eruption of light. The Training Field was aglow with an otherworldly luminescence, a momentary spectacle that seemed to freeze time itself. Their swords remained locked, shimmering with an ethereal brilliance that bathed the surroundings in an iridescent glow. Edelgard barely held her grasp at the display of such dexterity. She was right, they were not merely mercenaries.
"Your skills are still sharp, Professor. But I don't seem to recall daggers being allowed during our sparring sessions." Byleth sheathed his blade and replied with a sarcastic tone.
"Ah, but now we face each other as Byleth and Bylass, not as Professor and student. Let's consider this one of our old mercenary spars." Bylass countered with a joking tone
"How could I forget those times when you would fake fainting and then suddenly attack me like an undead rising from the dead? Is that where you learned your acting skills?" Byleth replied with a sarcastic voice, which she returned with a smug grin.
"Yes, and they were quite useful, especially after that "operation" in the Empire." Edelgard's ears perked and had a confused look on her face.
"Perhaps the one that has more tricks and talents is you, partner. I did not imagine you could pull off such a plan in the end." Byleth blushed slightly and replied with a groan.
"And yet they said you were calm and had an unusual amount of composure when we first met. I feel like I unlocked something I should not have done."
"Life is never boring with you in the picture, Byleth. Besides, do you remember when Jeralt…"
As their banter continued, Edelgard felt that this was her time to leave and left them having their moments. With a goal in mind, Edelgard carefully sneaked out of the Training Field, trying not to cause any sound.
"By the way," Bylass interjected, "about our research... are you certain your family truly hails from the Empire?"
The words shocked Edelgard to the core and made her freeze immediately. Despite knowing it was wrong to eavesdrop on such personal information, she not could resist the temptation to hear them talking about Byleth's past for the first time.
"To be honest, I don't know all the details of these visions... but it's hard to deny their impact on me. Especially the guilt that comes with them." Byleth said with sadness in his voice.
"But not all of them were bad memories, weren't they?" Bylass chimed in, trying to offer some encouragement.
"I don't remember her name but one of them reminded me of Bernadetta- they both share a fear of interacting with others. remember having to check on her in the infirmary after she encountered someone claiming to be Death... sounds like one of our students, doesn't it?"
"Reminds me of Hubert," Bylass joked. "Maybe they're related."
"Who knows," Byleth shrugged. "But from what I've gathered, he was a good man despite his cold demeanor. The last time we spoke, he even apologized for how he acted when we first met and thanked me for not giving up on him. He also mentioned his fiancée was pregnant with their first child and asked if I would attend their wedding." His voice trailed off, distant and melancholy.
"Byleth…"
"Sorry, I'm getting too sentimental again. After two years of searching for them all over Fodlan with no luck, I question if there's any hope left in this task." His tone was heavy with defeat.
"But in the end, you still chose to move forward without any hesitation and that alone was enough, Byleth. Though this may be arrogant for me to say this, I believe they will be grateful, knowing that you have not given up on them." Bylass said confidently.
"What did I do to deserve you, Bylass?" He replied calmly, yet his voice was lighter, making her smile softly.
"More than you can ever imagine, silly. It's getting late now; shall we head back to our rooms then?" Byleth nodded and they began walking, unaware that Edelgard had overheard their conversation while hidden behind one of the pillars. Her face still held a look of shock at what she had heard.
Looked like there would be another matter to converse with Hubert tomorrow.
"Good morning, Lady Edelgard. I hope you had a good rest despite waking up in the middle of the night."
"Yes, thank you for asking, Hubert. Have you found any alternative routes to the Holy Mausoleum?"
"I'm afraid not, my lady. It seems we will have to wait until it is open to the public." Hubert answered with a hint of disappointment.
"It can't be helped then. But did you notice anything strange about our 'allies' for this mission?" Edelgard inquired carefully.
"Yes, my lady. It was quite unusual for Thales to summon us just for a briefing on the details. And his final warning still lingers in my mind," Hubert mused, stroking his chin thoughtfully.
"Do not fail, or we will all face the consequences," Edelgard repeated with a frown "For someone who never shows respect to anyone but himself, there was a hint of fear in his voice no matter how much he tried to hide."
"I also observed their other agents, but they were too scared to answer when I asked about the task's importance. Whatever secrets they're hiding, we must be prepared for the worst." Then Hubert continued.
"Threatening us over a simple task of retrieving Seiros's remains is one thing, but to be intensely demanding you to stay away from our mercenary friend who caught your attention more than the professor is quite a turn of events I must say."
"Hubert, what are you trying to imply?" Edelgard said, raising an eyebrow.
"Forgive me, my lady. I am only stating the facts. For someone with unknown origins and unpredictable motives, it would be risky to put your trust in them," Hubert replied calmly.
'Speaking of Byleth, did you find something about him?" Edelgard asked.
"Yes, as you requested, I looked into him and found that most of the reports align with what we were told about his time as a mercenary. However, there is one glaring detail that stood out to me," Hubert replied.
"What did you find?" Edelgard inquired.
"It's interesting that despite causing chaos in the mercenary world for the past two years, no one seemed to know of his existence until he met the Professor. It's almost as if he appeared out of thin air. And after seeing Thales' insistence on not harming him during our mission, these events may be connected," Hubert explained.
"Hubert, did you forget how he reacted last time when there were civilians caught up in the fighting?" Edelgard sighed." For someone who prioritizes the well-being of the victims, he can't cooperate with them who see humans as nothing more than a toy to be tossed aside whenever they please."
"I am simply advising caution, my lady. We must consider all possibilities. Furthermore, you seem overly invested in him, despite barely knowing the man." Hubert replied calmly.
"It always… ends like this!"
"Hubert, I know this may sound crazy, but do you think we've met him before?" Edelgard asked awkwardly as Hubert widened his eyes in surprise.
"My lady, did you get enough sleep last night?"
"I know what you are thinking but there is something oddly familiar about him as if we've known each other for some time. And besides, having such a capable ally on our side wouldn't hurt - especially one who defeated Catherine single-handedly."
"In response to your first question, I am positive that we have not crossed paths with this person in the past decade. As for your second point, his idealistic behaviors will make him a compromise for our cause." Hubert replied cautiously.
"Why do you say that?"
"I know that you are determined to walk this path no matter the cost for you said it yourself "It's not possible to change without sacrifices.". But remember how our friend reacted when you made that statement? He wouldn't hesitate to turn against you if innocent lives were lost in our revolution. Just look at what happened with Lonato." Hubert explained.
"And let us not forget about the Professor herself - she will undoubtedly side with him no matter what. If she showed no regard for the archbishop, do you think she would listen to you if her partner was in pain again? She would undoubtedly point her blade towards you, just as she did with Rhea and the Knights of Seiros. Therefore, I believe the potential risks outweigh the benefits of trying to recruit someone like them."
"What if I told you his family is from the Empire, Hubert?" Edelgard's voice was confident as Hubert perked up in interest.
"And how did you find this out if I may ask?"
"I happened to hear them talking about his past accidentally the night before. Though Byleth was not entirely sure himself, there's a chance he could be persuaded to join our side if his family has ties to the Empire."
"That's not a guarantee. And regardless of his allegiances, he will not stand for innocent casualties," Hubert pointed out. "But it is worth looking into. I'll check for any records of him or his family."
"I'm counting on you, Hubert. Until then, take care."
"Then I shall take my leave. Have a good day, Lady Edelgard."
12th of the Blue Sea Moon, 1180
"I'm surprised you called for this meeting, but given the tense situation we're in, a little distraction could be helpful."
"Oh, no need to thank me, Professor. I hope I didn't disrupt your day off. I know how busy you've been lately." As Byleth held the chair for Bylass, she gave him a soft smile before focusing her attention back on Edelgard
"It's alright," Bylass reassured them as they sat in the quiet tea room. "Taking care of the students is part of my duties as a professor, isn't it?" She poured hot tea into delicate cups, the warm aroma filling the air.
Byleth nodded in agreement. "And just because there's a rumor going around doesn't mean we can't have a free day. The security here is tight and I doubt assassins would try anything in broad daylight."
Edelgard smiled, handing them each a cup. "Please, try some. I hope it suits your tastes."
"The bright notes of this tea stem from an infusion of citrus oils. And the pleasant blend that is undoubtedly favored by the nobility. It very fits you, Edelgard." Byleth complimented as Edelgard widened her eyes.
"I never knew you knew about cuisine and desserts. Is this one of the skills you picked as a former mercenary?"
"Not exactly," Bylass chimed in. "We've been studying more about nobility since coming to this academy, and tea was the first thing we learned. Plus, after spending time with the students, I think I can tell their tastes based on their personalities."
"Is that so? And the same goes for you as well?" Edelgard inquired curiously.
"I'd like to think so. Though I am not as skilled in cooking as she is," Byleth glared at Bylass who was sipping her tea nonchalantly. "it's my role to return lost items to students while Bylass takes care of their appetites."
"Is that why I saw your hands full with various objects a few days ago?" Edelgard asked with amusement.
"Yes, and I believe I found yours as well, Edelgard. Is this your glove?" "Yes, and I believe I found yours as well, Edelgard. Is this your glove?" Byleth handed her a white glove, causing her to blush in embarrassment.
"That was unprofessional of me but thank you." Edelgard coughed awkwardly.
"Don't worry, we all make mistakes sometimes." Byleth shrugged and sipped his tea.
"Since this is a rare chance for us to sit down like this, how about a little game?" Bylass suggested, catching their attention."To get to know each other better, of course. The questions can be anything, and the answers must be explained in detail."
"That's quite interesting, Professor. What are the rules then?"
"Don't I have a say in this?" Byleth sighed, causing Bylass to giggle.
"Said the one who always gets along in the end. Anyway, the rules are simple. Each one can ask a question and answer in the next turn. Since Byleth and I are a team now, you can ask either of us a question when it's your turn." Bylass explained casually.
"Shall we start now?" The blue-haired duo nodded in agreement and Edelgard continued. "What do you like, Byleth?"
"I don't know if "like" is the right word, but I find myself helping people almost reflexively. It brings me a sense of contentment and fulfillment for some reason." Byleth answered honestly.
"Your instinct to help others without hesitation is truly admirable, my friend. It's a testament to your compassionate nature. Such selflessness is a rare quality, and it reflects your dedication to making a positive impact. Your actions bring comfort and aid to those around you, and that's a commendable trait."
"Thank you, Edelgard. I've always felt a sense of purpose in helping others, even if it's an instinctive reaction. Seeing the impact, it has on people brings a unique kind of fulfillment. Your dedication and strength in pursuing your beliefs have been an inspiration to me as well. It's reassuring to know that this shared value is understood and respected."
"Hey, you two, let's not get too serious here! This is just a game after all, right?" Bylass interjected with a playful tone. "But I must say, Byleth, your sudden poetic side took me by surprise. Who knew you had such eloquent words hidden away?"
"I suppose all those hours spent in the library were worth it then." Byleth shrugged before turning to Edelgard. "What about you? Any special talents or hobbies?"
Edelgard thought for a moment before replying.
"As for me, I find solace in reading and studying not only because of my duty but also part of who I am. The pursuit of knowledge shapes our understanding of the world and its intricacies. Each text I delve into brings me closer to understanding the past and, in turn, shaping the future." Edelgard continued with a faint smile." I suppose you could say within those pages, lies the future that I strive to create."
"Your dedication is truly admirable, Edelgard." Bylass remarked." It's clear that you truly invest in what you believe in and there is no doubt it will guide your path should the days come."
Grateful for the compliment, Edelgard took a sip of her tea, which Bylass acknowledged with a sip of her own. The two sat in comfortable silence for a while before Edelgard resumed speaking.
"I guess it's my turn then. Professor, do you have any long-term goals and aspirations?" Bylass raised her eyebrow then relaxed and answered calmly
"Pretty straightforward, I suppose. I suppose. After this year's education, I plan on returning to Remire village and opening my shop there." This answer caught Edelgard off guard and she stopped drinking her tea, looking at Bylass with confusion.
"Are going to be a florist?"
"Yes, exactly. A quiet life, tending to flowers and helping the locals. It's a simple dream, but one I've held close to my heart."
Edelgard seemed to be taken by the answer but decided to push her luck."Professor, forgive me for speaking out of turn, but with your remarkable skills and potential, you could achieve so much more. Fodlan is a vast world, and you possess the talent to shape its future."
"We've talked about this many times, Edelgard. No matter how skilled Byleth and I are as mercenaries, that's all we'll ever be. And after all these years of meaningless battles, my dream is to finally settle down with my family and lead a peaceful life. Isn't that a beautiful thought?"
"If you are still looking for an assistant, count me in." joked Byleth, taking a bite of the pastry she had given him as they shared an understanding smile.
"I understand." Edelgard replied with a nod." To pursue a life filled with love and peace is a noble dream indeed. Though my dream is also to sit about and simply do…nothing. Unfortunately, the demands placed upon me make it seem like a distant fantasy."
"Edelgard, it's understandable to yearn for a moment of respite amidst the relentless demands placed upon you. Your desire for peace reflects a genuine need for a break from constant responsibilities. However, I believe that even in your position, it's possible to find moments of solace." Byleth's voice suddenly caught her attention.
Then Bylass added. "Your ambition and dedication are admirable. You carry the burden of leadership with grace and strength, but it's important not to lose sight of your well-being amidst these responsibilities. Finding small moments for yourself, even amid duties, is crucial. Whether it's taking a brief walk in the garden, indulging in a hobby, or spending time with trusted companions, these moments can offer the rejuvenation you need." She took a small sip of her tea and let Byleth continue.
"Your dream may seem distant, but it doesn't have to remain unattainable. By prioritizing self-care and seeking balance, you can inch closer to that sense of peace. Remember, taking care of yourself isn't a luxury; it's a necessity, especially for someone as essential to the future of Fódlan as you are."
Edelgard looked at Byleth in bewilderment and asked, "Were you not a scholar before?"
"I've been wondering about that myself. But given the armor I was wearing when I regained consciousness, I highly doubt it." Byleth shrugged and drank his tea.
"I understand. Anyway, your words and the Professor have a great impact on me, and I am truly grateful for that. Thank you, Byleth, Professor," Edelgard said with a nod of appreciation.
"It's alright, Edelgard. Now it's my turn. You have spoken of the future a few times before. What kind of future do you envision, Edelgard?"
The question lingered in the air, prompting a contemplative pause from Edelgard. She regarded Byleth for a moment, her expression transitioning from one of impassioned determination to a more introspective demeanor.
"The future I seek." Edelgard held her breath, bracing for what was to come. "is one free from the tyranny of a broken system. A world where people aren't bound by the constraints of a flawed society. I strive for equality, for a world where everyone has the opportunity to flourish regardless of their background."
"Quite ambitious, especially coming from someone who will soon be Emperor. Do you truly wish to dismantle the noble system?"
"Is that a question?" Edelgard asked amusingly.
"Are we still playing this game though?" Byleth glanced at Bylass.
"I will make an exception for this one then. Please continue, Edelgard."
"Where was I? The noble system- it's a flawed structure that perpetuates inequality and stifles progress. One's capabilities should not be judged based on their social status or Crests, which are nothing but privileges passed down to a select few." Edelgard lowered her voice and looked around carefully, making sure no one overheard the conversation.
"That's a bit bold of you I must say," Bylass interjected. "Given the history between the Empire and the Church, I did not expect you to challenge their teachings so boldly."
"Are you planning on informing Lady Rhea of this?" Edelgard narrowed her eyes as tension started to build up until Bylass shrugged.
"You are misunderstanding me, Edelgard. If that is your belief, then who I am to dictate to you what should and should not be said. Furthermore, we are not devoted followers either, especially after what happened a few weeks ago." Bylass's voice suddenly became darker as Byleth looked at her in concern. Fortunately, she quickly composed themselves and continued speaking neutrally.
"Put that aside. Tell me, Edelgard, how do you plan to bring such a radical change to this land?" Bylass asked as Edelgard took a deep breath and responded with unwavering determination.
"Change is never easy, Professor. Sacrifices may be necessary to pave the way for a fairer future. I'm willing to do whatever it takes to ensure lasting change, to break the chains of oppression that bind the people."
A chill swept through the air as Byleth's eyes narrowed, his expression indecipherable. Edelgard couldn't tell if her decision to bring this up was a smart one, considering Byleth's reputation for being ruthless when it came to matters of life and death.
"So, you are just like one of those then- willing to sacrifice the lives of your people for your cause," Byleth said darkly.
"Forgive me for my poor choice of words, Byleth. What I meant was that to bring about change, sacrifices are sometimes necessary." Edelgard swallowed hard.
"But is the cost of casualties worth this so-called "change"? There is no such thing called fate or inevitability, Edelgard. Only choices that we make shape our future." Byleth replied coldly; his voice was harsher than usual, making Bylass glance at him in concern.
"I respect your belief, my friend. But in this cruel world, mere words are not enough to enact change. Those in power will do anything to maintain their hold on it." Edelgard's voice grew resolute. "I am prepared to face the consequences if it means creating a world where everyone can thrive."
"But what about the people that have nothing to do with it?" Bylass added, breaking her silence. "Those who are content with their lives despite the injustices in some regions. What you suggested is not just a revolution but a dangerous path that might lead to war, Edelgard. And instead of creating a fair world for everyone, there will be even more suffering and loss."
The air was thick with tension as the group fell into a deafening silence, each holding their breath and saying nothing. Edelgard's heart raced as she weighed her options, knowing that one wrong move could lead to disaster. She clenched her fists, debating whether or not to use her last resort - a risky move but potentially the only way to make him hear her reasons.
"What if... the people you love come from the very land that starts a revolution? Would you stand up and fight for them?" Byleth's surprise was evident in his widened eyes. Fortunately, he did not press her for more details and thought deeply. After a moment of contemplation, he spoke up.
"If that's the case, then I would wield my sword to protect them." But before Edelgard could reply, he continued." However, that doesn't mean I would blindly follow the ruler into a bloody war, not after what I've seen a lifetime ago." Edelgard's eyes widened at his last statement.
"A lifetime ago? Do you mean..." Before she could finish her question, Byleth realized his mistake and waved it off.
"We'll clean up so you can rest now," Bylass chimed in. "Don't worry, we have plans for dinner in the kitchen tonight, so it's no trouble."
"In that case, I'll take my leave now. Enjoy your evening, Professor and Byleth." Edelgard bid them goodbye and left the garden.
As Edelgard made her way down the long, dimly-lit hallway towards her room, she couldn't shake the disappointment that lingered from her earlier conversation. She could still feel the weight of their disapproval on her shoulders, and it only added to her already heavy burden. Even though she understood the reasoning behind their arguments, she couldn't bring herself to believe in a peaceful solution. It seemed as though fate had destined her to walk this path alone. But as she entered her room and closed the door behind her, a nagging feeling tugged at her heart. The words of the woman in her dream echoed in her mind, almost like a warning or plea. Frustrated, Edelgard tried to push these thoughts away and focus on her tasks for the day. But no matter how hard she tried, the guilt and doubt remained, growing louder with each passing moment.
"Is this what you want, El?"
Shambhala, the Underground City
In the dimly lit laboratory, Solon and Myson stood over a group of bound and gagged bandits. Beakers filled with multicolored liquids and strange devices littered the tables around them. The screams of pain from their subjects echoed through the room, but the two shrouded figures showed no emotion as they continued their twisted experiments on the human guinea pigs. Suddenly, there was a loud explosion as one of the bandits' bodies burst open, sending blood and guts splattering across the walls and floor. Myson scowled at the mess and muttered an incantation to clean his and Solon's robes. Disappointed by the lack of progress in their research, he turned to his partner with a grim expression.
"Another failure, just as I expected. I shouldn't have put my trust in those false humans," Myson complained.
"And now we're running low on volunteers because of our previous failed experiments. Did you ask Thales for more supply?" Solon replied.
"Yes, and it should arrive in a week's time. Now that our task here is done, you better head back before anyone starts questioning your disappearance."
"Agreed. But before I go, may I ask you something?" Myson raised an eyebrow.
"Make it quick," Solon began with an uncertain voice.
"Forgive me for prying but this God that everyone spoke of … is he truly like what Thales claimed? Or is it nothing but a tale spun to control us?"
Myson's face turned pale and he looked around nervously. "Watch your words, Solon. You never know who might be listening. And you don't want to find out what will happen if 'he' hears you."
"But Myson, we'd been led to believe in his divinity for centuries and there has not been any sign ever since. It may be bold of me to say, but I struggle to understand why Thales and a few others are so afraid of him."
"And that's where you are gravely mistaken, Solon. Despite imposing the librarian, you truly know nothing about history, don't you?"
"What do you mean?"
"Not only were there rumors and whispers circulating but there were also ancient records that described him in detail. But after the War of Heroes, Seiros and her followers destroyed most of them to erase his name from the memories of the people now living in the Kingdom and Alliance. But we- true humanity- will never forget him. He was the only one who cared about us when the Old Gods abandoned our brothers and sisters, leaving them to be massacred by those beasts." Myson spoke bitterly.
"Abandoned? What convinced our people to follow him, especially someone like Thales no less?"
"When our people were lost to Sothis and her child, we stumbled upon … being. He offered us salvation and hope when we were lost in despair. His words, his promises of vengeance against the Nabateans—they captivated us, ensnared our very souls."
"So, this devotion- it's not just blind faith?" Solon asked uncertainly.
"His hold over Thales and our people is beyond your understanding, Solon. It's more than mere words. At first, Thales and I were skeptical of this mysterious deity until he showed us the truth - the immense power flowing through him that did not belong to any human." Myson shuddered as he recalled their encounter.
"And what of this "mercy" and "wrath" that Thales mentioned before?" Solon pressed on.
Myson swallowed hard as his voice was trembling. "I saw it ages ago, yet the emotions are still too raw for me. Let me warn you, the Burning One is not a benevolent God. His mercy is a facade for unimaginable fury. If he chooses to show mercy upon you, it will be a fate worse than death."
Solon swallowed nervously.
"And... what happened to the last person who challenged him?"
Myson seemed lost in thought before answering.
"It was after Nemesis was slain by Seiros. A man spoke out against his plan and authority, considering it a defeat. The Burning One made an example of him - twisting his mind until it shattered. The image of that broken man still haunts some of us today. It was not just a display of strength, but a warning. Question him again and your fate will be worse than death."
"I understand...our mission must succeed at all costs," Solon nodded fearfully as his unease grew.
"Yes...we must ensure our actions align with his will, or we will face consequences beyond our understanding."
"If that is everything, I will return now. Glory to the Agartha!" Solon bowed in respect which Myson did the same.
"And may his divinity watch over us!"