As Seraphim's words hung in the air, the room fell into a tense silence. The Knights of Seiros exchanged shocked and disbelieving glances. Edelgard and Hubert shared a knowing glance, their expressions skeptical as they tried to maintain their composure. Meanwhile, Byleth and Bylass fixed Seraphim with wary gazes, hesitant to believe the claims of this self-proclaimed Archangel.
"Master? I am not your puppet, nor anyone else's. Not even Fate's and certainly not a coward hiding behind a hood like you!" Byleth declared fiercely, his anger and defiance bubbling just beneath the surface as Bylass helped him to stand.
"Ah, those same words that I've heard before. And who do you think you are?" He taunted.
"I am Byleth- once a mercenary of the Blade Breaker and now a student of the Black Eagles." Byleth's gaze hardened as he turned to face Seraphim, then glanced at Bylass with an unreadable expression before returning his attention to the hooded figure. "Shadow of Ashen Demon!"
Seraphim fell silent for a moment, eyeing Byleth calculatingly before bursting into maniacal laughter. "Oh, how amusing it is to see one so deluded! In your memories, you were many things. A son, a mentor, a father figure, a loyal comrade, and the best part of all a demon. But tell me, were those truly your memories, Byleth?"
Byleth's mind raced as he tried to make sense of Seraphim's words. Despite the vividness of those memories, something was nagging in him, a feeling of doubt and hesitation. But before he could respond, Bylass stepped in front of him protectively; her usually calm face now masked with barely contained rage.
"Enough of your lies, Seraphim!" she spat. Her hands clenched into fists at her sides, radiating an aura of fiery determination. "No matter what you are claiming, he doesn't belong to you. He is Byleth - my family - and those who dare to threaten my family will face consequences. Even a self-proclaimed Archangel like you!"
"There she is," Seraphim taunted, his smile twisted and menacing. "The bearer of flames! Thinking she can defy even fate to save her loved ones." His eyes flicked over to Bylass and pointed his finger to Byleth to emphasize his words. "How many lives have you lived just to arrive at this point, Bylass?" Confusion washed over the faces of everyone present except for Bylass, whose shock was barely contained.
"Bylass!" Sothis cautioned, sensing the tension rising dangerously.
"But listen closely," Seraphim continued with a sly grin. "You might think that you have the power to undo inevitability and save those filthy traitors, but you will never stray him from his true path." His gaze locked onto Bylass's, sending a chill down to her spine. "All those attempts you have made, including the day you first saved him - they were all in vain. Merely delaying the destiny that has been set for him. Unlike that liar who called herself Goddess, my words are absolute, Bylass!"
"I have had enough." Catherine declared, her voice trembling with righteous anger. "Knights of Seiros! Seize that heretic at once!"
The Knights of Seiros immediately charged towards Seraphim, their swords drawn and ready for battle. But the hooded figure stood calmly before them, his eyes shining with a deadly power as he raised his hand and conjured a wall of scorching flames. Two knights were caught off guard and burned to ashes before they could react.
The Black Eagles quickly formed a defensive line, preparing for an intense fight. Byleth and Bylass joined the charge, their weapons glinting with determination. Even Catherine had her Thunderbrand ready.
But just when it seemed like they were all ready to face Seraphim head-on, he turned his back and began to walk away. With a twisted smile on his lips, he spoke over his shoulder.
"To the coward hiding behind a mask," he said in a chilling tone. "Tell your masters – get ready for the encore!"
And with those ominous words, Seraphim vanished into thin air, leaving behind only fading embers and a lingering silence that sent shivers down everyone's spines.
"Catherine, what should we do now?" One of the knights asked, his voice was trembling.
"Let's bring back the prisoners for judgment first. I will handle the reports to Lady Rhea. Lady Edelgard, if it's within my authority, could you please keep this encounter quiet until we receive the archbishop's decision?"
"I will see to it, Catherine." Edelgard nodded before turning to address the professor. "Shall we move on...Professor?"
As the chaos around them settled, Bylass stood frozen in place, her fists clenched tightly. The Black Eagles stared at her in confusion, unable to comprehend her sudden change. They glanced over at Byleth, who was also struggling to maintain his composure despite his calm demeanor. Little did anyone know; that he was desperately trying to maintain his mask. Deep down, a storm raged within him as he heard the voice of Seraphim mocking them. Byleth, usually calm and in control, was now paralyzed with fear and determination to uncover the truth behind this so-called archangel's words, knowing that their next confrontation would reveal more than he was ready for.
Meanwhile, Bylass struggled to contain her anger as Seraphim brought up her abilities. She knew the archangel was aware of her powers and how she had used them to save Byleth's life. But with that knowledge also came the fear of the being who had taunted her, threatening everything she held dear. Protecting Byleth was her top priority, but at what cost? How much longer could she keep up this facade of calm and control before it all unraveled?
"Professor, Byleth, what's wrong? You look pale." Edelgard asked, snapping them out of their thoughts.
"Oh, it's nothing. I was just a little shaken by what happened earlier," Bylass replied, trying to brush it off. But she couldn't help but notice Byleth's slow recovery.
"Byleth..." she trailed off, concerned.
"I'm fine. Let's not keep the archbishop waiting any longer," Byleth said with a strained voice, eager to move on from the situation. With a nod, Bylass followed the others as they left the Holy Mausoleum.
Little did they know, this was just the start of what was yet to come.
The Audience Room
As they entered the audience room, Bylass noticed that Rhea was already there with a group of Knights, including her father. His relief at seeing she was unharmed quickly turned to shock when he saw the Sword she was holding. Seteth's expression mirrored his own as they both recognized its significance. Rhea, however, wore an unsettling smile that made Bylass uncomfortable. Something about this situation didn't sit right with her.
"Lady Rhea! We apprehended the trespassers and discovered that their true target was the Sword of the Creator, not the assassination attempt," Bylass reported matter-of-factly.
"And it seems the Sword has finally chosen its wielder after all this time," Rhea commented, her eyes glinting with a sense of pride.
"But before we continue, there is another pressing matter at hand," Seteth interjected.
"You're right, Seteth. Catherine, bring in the traitors," Rhea commanded as she turned her attention to the Western Church members who were visibly nervous.
"As all of you have committed a breach of faith, the archbishop will now pass judgment," Seteth said with a serious expression before continuing. "Inciting a noble Kingdom to rebel. Unlawful entry. The attempted assassination of the archbishop. An attack on the Holy Mausoleum. It is unnecessary to go on, followers of the Western Church."
"What? We have nothing to do with the Western Church!" one of their priests protested.
"You have already been identified! Please spare us your second-rate theater."
"Dishonoring a holy ceremony is worthy of death for a member of the church. May your souls find peace as they return to the Goddess!"
"We were tricked! This wasn't supposed to happen." Many prisoners began to sob uncontrollably, but one remained eerily calm, almost amused, before bursting into bitter laughter.
"So, it's true then; the Goddess and her minions are nothing but treacherous liars whose deception has plagued this land for centuries. How blind I was not to see it sooner?" The prisoner sneered, glaring defiantly at Rhea.
"Silence! Your fate has already been sealed." Catherine snapped back sharply, but her words fell on deaf ears as the prisoner continued his taunts.
"You may kill us today but know that you have not won. The Liberator will come for you, to set humanity free from your lies and tyranny. May his divinity bless us all!"
"This concludes the investigation. Please remove these poor souls out of my sight. Unless you have any objection?" Rhea glanced at Byleth who remained unphased by the events unfolding before him and shrugged off, indicating that he did not care. Then the knights led the prisoners out of the room, leaving Byleth and Bylass braced for what was to come.
"About the Sword in your belt… how did you find it?" Seteth asked curiously.
"We found it after their mage broke the seal on the coffin containing Seiros's remains," Bylass replied honestly. "To be honest, I never expected to find the Sword of the Creator there."
"That sword is one of the Heroes' Relics, and the most valuable artifact in the Church's possession," Rhea interjected. "Which is why I will entrust it to you...for now." Her announcement shocked everyone, including Bylass.
"Lady Rhea, do you mean it?" Seteth's voice was barely above a whisper. "It is not something to be handed over lightly, even to someone who can wield it."
"Do not worry, Seteth. I have considered this carefully," Rhea reassured him. "And I believe our friend here is worthy of wielding such a divine weapon, especially since she is the daughter of Jeralt himself."
"I'm flattered, Lady Rhea. But I'm sharing my concern with our advisor here, is it a good idea to entrust the Sword of the Creator to a stranger?"
"That's right! And if another Nemesis were to appear, all of Fodlan would once again be consumed by war," Seteth added. The mention of Nemesis made Bylass raise an eyebrow in intrigue.
"You mean the King of Liberation who was blessed by the Goddess with this sword to defeat the wicked gods?"
"Correct and it was that same power began to corrupt him until he turned to darkness, forcing Saint Seiros to destroy him." Before Seteth continued, Catherine raised her hand.
"Then does that mean our professor here is a descendant of Nemesis?" Jeralt and the Black Eagles widened their eyes in shock, particularly Edelgard who struggled to hide her surprise behind her hand.
"Sir Jeralt, do you know anything about this?" Edelgard asked.
"I'm just as clueless as all of you. I cut ties with my family a long time ago. Unless… no, it can't be." Jeralt murmured to himself and shook his head.
"But it does make sense for the bloodline of Nemesis to have been kept hidden for so long. Their existence would surely cause a stir in both the Kingdom and Alliance." Linhardt chimed in, lost in thought.
"I know that Nemesis used to rule over the Kingdom and Alliance, but that was centuries ago. I doubt the nobles would take kindly to such a revelation." Bylass interjected, uncertainty lacing her voice.
"Unless they see you as a better alternative, Professor," Edelgard added. "A long time ago, the Ten Elites swore an oath of loyalty to the King of Liberation. If you were to collect these old oaths and combine them with your possession of the Sword of the Creator, it could bring about immense change in Fodlan's political landscape."
"I have no desire to rule over anyone or become some new Liberator. I believe I made that clear before, Edelgard." Bylass sighed wearily.
"But still, we can't predict how the nobles will react to not just one, but two wielders of the Sword of the Creator." Rhea's smile faltered as she hesitantly asked.
"Miss Hresvelg, could you repeat it?"
"And that's what we are about to inform you, Lady Rhea," Catherine added, her eyes darting towards Byleth. "When we arrived at the Holy Mausoleum, it was Byleth who took down all of the Western Church members while wielding the Sword of the Creator."
The air grew tense as Rhea turned to look at Byleth with a mixture of awe and disbelief on her face. Byleth shifted under her intense gaze, feeling a bit uncomfortable with being the center of attention.
"This...cannot be… There should not..." Rhea struggled to speak, her voice strained and trembling. She took a deep breath and regathered her composure before addressing Byleth with a stern tone. "Byleth, is it true?"
"I'm not sure, Lady Rhea. I could barely remember anything after making contact with the Sword of the Creator." Byleth's uncertainty said it all as he replied hesitantly.
"You don't remember, Byleth?" Bylass asked emphatically and Byleth shook his head.
"But you wielded the Sword with such skill," Linhardt interjected bluntly. "It turned into a whip and summoned a massive storm that knocked out our enemies, even the Death Knight. And the fire...it surrounded you like you were the King of Liberation himself. It was identical to the descriptions of Nemesis during the Battle of Tailtean Plains." His words sent shivers down to Rhea and Seteth who exchanged uneasy glances.
"Was there anything else?" Rhea pressed on warily.
"When we reached the Holy Mausoleum, he stood motionless until his eyes locked onto us and he pointed the sword in our direction. But there was something strange about him..." Catherine paused and replied with a hint of fear in her voice. "His eyes... they were glowing bright yellow." The revelation caused Rhea and Seteth to gasp as their eyes widened further.
"Did the professor experience the same thing?" Seteth asked sternly.
"No," Bylass answered with irritation. "Other than feeling an overwhelming surge of power coursing through me, nothing else happened. But what does it all mean?" She couldn't help but feel frustrated by how wary everyone had become around Byleth once again.
Rhea's face contorted with a mix of anger and suspicion as her eyes bore into Byleth. Her thoughts raced, her mind a battlefield of conflicting emotions. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, she broke the heavy silence with a voice so sharp it could cut glass.
"Professor, even though I entrusted the Sword of the Creator to you I have faith you will not be corrupted by its power. However, that could not be said for Byleth here. Therefore, the Sword of the Creator is reserved for you alone and must not be given to anyone else, regardless of their ability to wield it." Byleth and Bylass exchanged a puzzled glance at this proclamation, their confusion growing.
"Lady Rhea, earlier you said you had faith in my child, despite the suspicion that she may be connected to Nemesis. Why can't the same trust be extended to Byleth as well?" Jeralt interjected, his voice laced with suspicion.
"Jeralt, you must understand that while I have faith in you and your family, Byleth is a stranger with an unknown past and origin. However, I want to ask this one more time- are you sure he is not related to you in some way?" Jeralt hesitated, meeting Bylass's understanding gaze before speaking slowly.
"And why does it matter?" Jeralt raised an eyebrow.
"To be able to wield a Relic without a Crestone, it can only mean one thing- both Bylass and Byleth possess the Crest of Flames, which is often shared through the same bloodline." The Black Eagles were shocked as they glanced at that mentioned duo who looked conflicted, especially Bylass. Until Jeralt broke the silence.
"We lost Bylass's mother to illness shortly after she gave birth to her. Therefore, I can guarantee that they were not twins or related in any way as I was there. And if I recall, Crests are not only shared through bloodline in case you forget, lady Rhea!" Jeralt countered, and Rhea gave him an unreadable look before moving on.
"If that is the case, then I will take your word for it. However, my decision remains unchanged - we cannot risk having one of our students succumb to the corrupting influence of the sword, as has already happened based on what everyone here has said." Her tone was firm and unwavering.
Before Bylass could open her mouth to defend her friend, Byleth stepped in front of her with a stern expression. "I don't see any problem with it, Lady Rhea,"
"Then consider this matter finished. Due to the infiltration of the Holy Mausoleum, all classes will be canceled until next month." The Black Eagles let out sighs of relief, especially Linhardt and Bernadetta who seemed visibly relieved. Just as they thought the matter was settled, Catherine's hand shot up as she hesitantly reported.
"Lady Rhea, there is one crucial detail we have not disclosed yet. Another intruder appeared at the Holy Mausoleum after we apprehended the Western Church members."
Seteth's brow furrowed in concern as he asked, "Was this person connected to the previous intruders?"
"No, he had no apparent ties to the Western Church or their plans. But his words were not only blasphemous but also outrageous, Seteth. I believe his name was Seraphim." Suddenly, Rhea and Seteth both staggered back as if hit by a powerful force, sending confusion rippling through the entire room.
"How do you know that name, Catherine?" Rhea demanded sharply, her eyes blazing with anger. Catherine felt a flicker of fear inside but managed to maintain her composure as she replied calmly.
"The hooded man proclaimed it himself, claiming to be the Archangel of Liberation. And he proved it by effortlessly deflecting the Sword of the Creator with his spell and incinerating two of our knights without breaking a sweat. With all due respect, Lady Rhea, do you know anything about this mysterious figure?".
As Rhea and Seteth locked eyes, Bylass could see the archbishop's hands tremble and the advisor's usually composed face twist in fear. The air around them felt heavy as they communicated wordlessly, their mouths dry and eyes wide with shock. Suddenly, they cleared their throats and regained their composure, trying to hide the fear that had consumed them just moments before.
"To the members of the Black Eagles and Knights of Seiros," Rhea began, her voice shaking slightly." What you've encountered was not a God but a Serpent that brought nothing but lies and betrayal. Therefore, I implore each of you to swear absolute secrecy regarding this matter. Revealing anything about him could invite chaos and unsettle the delicate balance we strive to maintain within the Church and the continent." Rhea said.
"If I may be so bold, wouldn't revealing the existence of two wielders of the Sword of the Creator cause enough chaos on its own? How much worse could this being's existence bring?"
"Mister Vestra, please understand this is not a matter of choice but of necessity. We must safeguard Fodlan from the unknown and preserve the stability we have worked so hard to achieve. Failure to maintain this secrecy could lead to dire consequences." The seriousness in Seteth's voice made the students shudder, realizing just how high the stakes were.
"During his introduction, he mentioned that he was also called the Serpent by the Church. It seems that he had a history with you but if so, why were we not taught anything about this being?" Edelgard chimed which sent confusion to everyone while Rhea glanced at her sternly which Edelgard kept up her façade.
"Miss Hresvelg, I understand your point, but some things are better left unknown. It was a miracle that all of you were alive after encountering him for the Serpent rarely chooses to show mercy upon his enemies. The last time he was revealed, even the Four Saints barely escaped with their lives." A gasp echoed through the room at her words, but Rhea quickly covered her slip-up and maintained her composed facade.
"I've said too much. But heed my warning: the existence of this entity must never leave this room at all costs. There will be consequences should you choose to reveal it. May the Goddess be with you!" Everyone bowed respectfully and left the room, leaving the archbishop and advisor with their thoughts, which were escalating as each second passed.
"Rhea, he's back. That wretched snake has finally resurfaced after all these years." Seteth seethed with barely contained fury.
"The audacity for him to reveal himself on this day is a mockery to us, and he will regret it dearly once I've dealt with him for good." Rhea's voice trembled with anger as she lost her composure, her normally serene appearance now twisted into a mask of rage.
"With the revelation of potential descendants of Nemesis, I fear that history will repeat itself sooner rather than later. If Seraphim chooses to align himself with either of them, it could mean the downfall of our world."
"As for our professor, I have faith that she won't succumb like that vile Nemesis. But her friend... if he truly is related to that thief, perhaps I'll finally have the chance to eradicate his cursed bloodline once and for all." Rhea's words dripped with venom, making Seteth raise an eyebrow in surprise.
"Rhea? What did you mean by that?" Rhea looked conflicted as she spoke.
"Forgive me, Seteth. There are things that I cannot reveal yet but rest assured, when the time comes, the truth will come to light. For now, that's all I can say."
"I understand, I will take your words for that. As for our current situation, we must tighten our security and request that the knight remain vigilant in case he dares to show his face again. " Seteth murmured firmly, his expression steely with determination. "In the name of Flayn and her mother, I won't let you escape this time, Seraphim!"
Rhea's expression was steely as she continued, "We must also conduct a thorough background check on the former mercenary Byleth. Seteth, I entrust this matter to you. Leave no stone unturned in your investigation of his time with Jeralt and before. And have the Knights of Seiros monitor him closely for any signs of deviant behavior."
"Catherine did mention his eyes turned yellow when he touched the Sword of the Creator. Do you think that was…?" A chill ran down Seteth's spine as he said.
"I pray that was not the case," Rhea interrupted, her voice tense. "But we cannot take any chances. Our approach must be cautious until we know for sure what Byleth is capable of. The future of Folan, no, the fate of this world rests on our shoulders."
"Understood, then I will be off for now. Have a good evening, Rhea."
"And the same goes for you, Seteth."
Bylass trudged back to her room, her heart heavy with the weight of recent events. She felt drained and exhausted, yet she knew that the aftermath of Seraphim's appearance and revelation of her Crest was far from over. As she wandered past the lake, a familiar figure caught her eye. Byleth sat on the shore of the lake, his gaze fixed on the moon above. His shoulders were tense and his expression distant.
Without hesitation, Bylass joined him on the bench, feeling the warmth of his presence calm her nerves. For several minutes, they sat in silence, taking in the peaceful atmosphere of the night. Then, Byleth finally broke the silence with a soft voice full of understanding.
"It is beautiful, isn't it? The tranquility here at midnight ... It's a brief respite from everything."
"I understand. The stillness of the lake has always had a calming effect on both of us. But I can tell something's bothering you. Is it because of Seraphim's words?" Bylass asked with concern which he fell silent until he continued weakly.
"No matter how much I try to ignore his lies, they cut deeper than I expected. For all the outlandish claims he made, there was some truth in what he said about me forgetting my family."
Bylass spoke gently. "And that's where he's wrong, Byleth. You haven't forgotten them. You know it and I know it too. Seraphim's lies are meant to sow doubt and taunt us. Don't let them bother you."
"It's just...what if there is a grain of truth in what he said? What if I've searching for something that's not even there?" He spoke quietly as he hung his head in defeat.
Bylass squeezed his hand gently and began."I know... I know how much your family means to you. And what Seraphim said... it was cruel. But please remember, you're not alone in this. You have me, you have the students, and you have a purpose that's bigger than these taunts." They both stared out at the serene lake as he returned her gentle squeeze.
"I just wish I could remember... anything about them. My father, my family... It feels like a void that can't be filled."
"Sometimes, the heart holds memories that the mind cannot access. But the love you carry for them, that's something no one can take away. And wherever they are, they'd want you to find solace, not torment, in their memory. And one last thing, you are not what he defines, Byleth. Never forget that."
"Thank you, Bylass." He gave her a small smile as both found solace in the calm night. Until he turned toward her.
"Bylass, may I ask you something?"
"Of course. What is troubling you?"
"I hope I'm not overstepping by asking this, but are you truly alright?" Bylass swallowed before reluctantly replying.
"It's fine. Just a bit overwhelmed with everything that happened today, but I'll manage." Byleth didn't seem convinced and pushed further.
"I know it's not my place, but after all you've done for me, I can't help but worry. During our battle with the Death Knight, I noticed something in your eyes...like fear and regret." Bylass's head dropped slightly as he continued. "Are you sure you're alright?"
"Honestly, I'm not feeling well at all. I don't even know if I can take this anymore." Bylass' body shook as Byleth furrowed his brow, trying to remain calm.
"I understand your concern for your students, but what happened today was unusual. It reminded me of the day at Remire...that look in your eyes was the same." Bylass inclined her head and tried to remain calm then she began slowly.
"Byleth, there's something I need to tell you before anything else. And whatever I say, please promise not to tell anyone else." Byleth held his breath as she continued. "I have the power to turn back time."
"That's quite unexpected. Don't you think it's too soon to reveal this?"
"Bylass, could you please explain again?" Byleth asked awkwardly, which she sighed and continued.
"I know it's hard to believe, but it's true. I can see into the future and change its course."
"Time manipulation? That seems impossible. Such powers are only found in legends and myths. It's not that I don't want to believe you, but it's a lot to take in."
"I know it's difficult to believe, but it's true," Bylass replied wearily. "But I've witnessed events unfold and rewound time to correct my mistakes."
Byleth sensed there was more to the story and asked carefully."Did something happen?"
"You might not believe me, but should I let our students face the Death Knight, none of them would even survive." Byleth was becoming more confused, but he remained silent and let her continue. "Despite everyone's trust in my abilities, I couldn't save anyone. I can still feel Bernadetta's blood on my face as she begged for my help; Linhardt was swept away like a mere insect and questioned the meaning of his life; even Hubert, who remained loyal to Edelgard despite his severe injuries." Bylass' body began to quiver and Byleth took her hand in his, trying to calm her down.
"And how many times have you done this?" Suddenly his tone got softer as Bylass continued.
"I lost count after witnessing Ferdinand and Dorothea fall, though it wasn't the first time I had done so. Perhaps eight times, perhaps nine...but does it even matter?" She let out another heavy sigh.
"Fall? Is that what you were referring to earlier - the future where we couldn't save anyone?" Bylass nodded, and Byleth was left speechless, his mind racing with thoughts.
"And before you blame yourself, it was my fault alone for failing to protect those I swore to defend."
"I won't even dare to think about breaking that promise we made on that night. But something doesn't add up. Why did you mention that saving Ferdinand wasn't your first time turning back time?" Byleth asked confusedly
"Here it comes, Bylass. Remember, starts from the beginning." Sothis said to Bylass.
"On that night at Remire when Kostas was aiming at Edelgard, you used yourself as a shield to protect her," Bylass began, swallowing hard as the memory flooded back. "You took the hit and collapsed immediately." Byleth's eyes widened in shock as he tried to remain calm and asked hesitantly,
"You mean...I died before?"
With clenched fists and pain evident in her eyes, Bylass nodded. "Even now, I can still feel every second of that moment. The fleeting breath, the anguished smile, and the coldness of your body as you spoke your last words to me. You could have been gone forever, Byleth!" Her body trembled as he pulled her into a gentle embrace, trying to ease her sobbing.
"It's alright now. I'm still here," he reassured her, brushing her hair gently with a compassionate voice. "You saved me and that's all that matters."
"But if I hadn't been given this power, you would..."
"It's just one possibility among many. But you chose to defy destiny without any regrets. How could I blame you after knowing the lengths you've gone for all of us, Bylass?" Her worry eased as she looked up to meet his gaze.
"When did you become such an inspirational speaker?" She asked playfully, trying to lift the tension. He returned her teasing with a small smile.
"Perhaps those tea parties with Ferdinand and a few others paid off after all. By the way, about this power that was gifted to you...may I ask how you obtained it?"
"Maybe tomorrow," Bylass said with a tired sigh. "It's been a long day and there's something else I want to discuss with you tomorrow."
"Is it about the revelation that you both share the same Crest?" Sothis popped up next to her and asked with curiosity.
"Among other things," Bylass responded with a longing gaze at Sothis. "Including how to explain your existence to him. He trusts me completely, but this might make me seem insane when I tell him you're often in my head."
"Hey, I'm not a ghost!"
Bylass let out a long sigh as she watched Sothis pout, still upset about being called a ghost. But before she could respond, she noticed that Byleth had been staring at something in the distance for a while. Finally, he broke the silence and pointed towards Sothis with a puzzled expression on his face.
"Bylass, who is she?"
"The archbishop lives," Thales hissed, disappointment dripping from every word like venom. "Not that I've ever placed much faith in those swine from the Western Church."
"Then why do you sound disappointed?" Edelgard replied, her voice distorted due to her disguise as Flame Emperor.
"It's because you and your loyal hound did not take my advice and warnings," Thales spat back furiously. "Killing the archbishop was never our goal. It's what's inside the tomb that is more important than your insignificant lives."
"Why would the remains of Seiros be so important to "our" causes? At most, they will only be…"
"And that, my 'niece', is where you are gravely mistaken," Thales sneered. "The whole purpose of infiltrating the Holy Tomb is not to plunder the remains of that pitiful Saint, it is to reclaim the Sword of the Creator."
Edelgard's confusion only grew as she asked.
"You speak as if you already knew what was inside that coffin. Why not reveal it sooner?"
"Why should I do that, Flame Emperor?" Thales mocked.
"Forget it." Edelgard snapped back. "Anyway, about that sword, the Crest Stone had already been removed when it was found."
"As expected. Anything else?" Thales replied calmly, his words stoking her frustration and confusion even further.
"There is more. The professor was somehow able to activate the sword's true power without the Crest Stone. It lit up in a blazing red as she wielded it. No doubt about it."
"And what of her companion - the Shadow?" Thales asked eagerly, a sharp edge to his tone.
"To our surprise, he too could harness the sword's power with even more intensity than the professor. He transformed it into a whip and unleashed a ferocious storm that knocked out everyone, including the Death Knight."
"I knew it." Thales murmured excitedly, but then his demeanor shifted as if remembering something. "But that doesn't change the fact that we failed to achieve our goal."
"For some reason, you and our other so-called 'friends' seem to be panicked over this task. Why would failing such a simple mission have consequences?"
"You have no idea what you're talking about, Flame Emperor," Thales retorted cautiously. "This entire mission - we've been preparing for it since before your pathetic father was even born. And now, not just you but all of us will face his wrath." For the first time in Edelgard's life, she could sense genuine fear emanating from Thales's voice.
"Him? Do you by any chance mean Seraphim- the Archangel of Liberation?"
"Where did you hear that from?" Thales widened his eyes and demanded heatedly.
"When we were about to leave the Holy Mausoleum, a hooded figure appeared and announced himself as Seraphim known as the Burning One and Serpent. Not only did he make such wild claims about himself, but also he seemed to know about the Church's hidden past as well as the archbishop."
"And you are still alive?" Thales scoffed.
"The archbishop also asked the same thing as well. Is it true that even the Four Saints could not match against him?"
"Those filthy monsters? Even the King of Liberation cowered in fear in his presence. You should count yourself lucky to still be breathing after encountering him." Feeling a shiver run down her spine, Edelgard couldn't shake off the uncomfortable feeling that something sinister lurked beneath Thales's words.
"Before he left, he turned back and gave his words to "the coward hiding behind a mask". I take that he was implying me then?"
"Correct. Have you finally learned your place, puppet?" Thales sneered; his eyes gleaming with malice.
"Enough!" Edelgard snapped, her voice filled with defiance. "If that is true, then he had a message for you - prepare for an encore."
Thales seemed taken aback by this revelation, but quickly recomposed himself and replied sternly.
"Return to your post and continue with our plans. And remember, steer clear of the Shadow of Ashen Demon."
"But why? What makes him so important to you?" Edelgard pressed, her brow furrowed in confusion. "If it's because of the Crest of Flame inside him, then why doesn't the same apply to the professor?"
"Patience, Flame Emperor. All will be revealed in due time," Thales replied cryptically. "Until then, make sure not to fail us again."
"Very well. And as for your request, the Death Knight is at your disposal. Use him wisely." Edelgard said through gritted teeth.
"Good. I have a feeling I'll quite enjoy this." Thales said with a satisfied smirk as Edelgard disappeared from his sight.
"You heard that, Myson?" Another presence popped up next to Thales, revealing Myson who bowed in respect.
"I heard it loud and clear, Lord Thales. It seems he is making his move at last. Surprisingly, he's given us another chance ever since the incident 1000 years ago."
"It doesn't matter why he's showing mercy now. The time has come for our plan to be put into action. Are all your preparations in place, Myson?"
"Yes, everything is ready. I've already informed Solon and given him his tasks."
"Good. And remember, we cannot afford to fail this time." Thales then turned towards the starry sky and raised his hand. "Soon, we will reclaim what is rightfully ours from a world corrupted by lies and treachery. Isn't that right, Master?"