>>5948435Reporting to the Archbishop…no, the Professor, took greater priority over everything else. You relay as much to the Gatekeeper, who allows you and the Blackwings access to the ruins of the monastery. Walking through the devastated streets, you can scarcely believe what is right in front of you. That man had not been exaggerating when he’d made mention of White Beasts. With the battle having only taken place yesterday, it seems as though no one had gotten around to cleaning the corpses off the ground yet. You’re witness to the remains of one such creature, lying dead in a pool of its own blood. The shattered remnants of what was once an apothecary’s shop lie scattered around it.
>“They almost look like Demonic Beasts.” You observe, getting near the carcass to study it closer.“One could make the argument that they are.” Uriel says, suddenly appearing next to you. You’ve never seen the old man looking quite so dazed before. His pale skin has grown a shade whiter as he stares down at the corpse alongside you.
>“The Gatekeeper made mention that it was the most senior knights and bishops that turned. Did you…perhaps know any of them?”“Perhaps.” Uriel mutters. “Excuse me, Blair. I’d like to think alone for a moment.” He turns around and departs your company.
You leave Milly in charge of figuring out accommodations for the rest of the Blackwings. In the meantime, you take Ashe and Corrine along to meet with the Professor inside the main hall. Even though the Officer’s Academy had not been spared the wrath of the White Beasts, it was at least still structurally sound and standing. The knights allow you passage with little issue, and you are led into the main audience hall, where Byleth is pouring through paperwork.
“My Lords!” The soldiers announce. “The Blackwings are here to see you!”
“Blair!” Byleth calls out. She is wearing those same ceremonial white robes you’d seen her in previously. Whether she became the next Archbishop or not, it was clear to see she would still play a leadership role in Fodlan for many years to come. She runs across the room, offering you a warm embrace. Even now, the familiarity she treated you with was still hard to believe. What happened to that cold and distant teacher you once had? “Welcome back! Was your mission a success?”
You nod. “We succeeded in capturing Rusalka and cutting off the supply of Agarthium. Additionally, we eliminated Patriarch Bennett at Zanado, as well as two Agarthan Sages. All pilgrims have now left the Forbidden Valley.”
Byleth breathes a great sigh of relief, and clutches onto your shoulder. “Fantastic work, Blair. Would that we could celebrate your triumph with a joyous celebration. Unfortunately, I’m sure you’ve seen the state of the monastery.”
