𝕹𝖆𝖇𝖗𝖎𝖆𝖑𝖊𝖘

I couldn't make use of my former name, that man died, so very long ago.

Not without bastardizing it at least, like my scheme involving Garlemald.

...An intriguing proposal, but a fruitless one. As soon as anyone were to learn of my past, training would swiftly morph into a life or death scenario.

At least for one side.

If you have ever witnessed what have been dubbed as 'Samurai', you would have some idea.

The grace and fluidity of the movements, but with an almost unmatched strength. It was what spurred me to create the style in the first place.

A mix of both. It was enjoyable perfecting my technique, but it was also part of my duty as Nabriales, being one of the strongest to claim the seat.

From what little I recall, I... was lacking in regard to hobbies. Even after I first relinquished my seat, my time was solely focused on honing my sword style, and teaching it to others.

Would you have any suggestions?

Perhaps, but what purpose does one who's only goal in life was combat and destruction serve now?

I am unsure. I still have my grievances, and there are those who would rather I be dead, for good reason.

But, if one like him can do all that for me, I suppose not every single one of them is worth destroying.

It leaves me without a purpose however which is my other main concern.

being in close proximity to the crystal, so it wasn't a real return.

I couldn't respect this sundered champion of Hydaelyn, and yet he chose to do this for me.

It... perplexes me. When I've treated him so poorly.

...this isn't something I directly contributed to. More indirect, but...

That individual found a way to force his own soul into a convocation crystal, allowing his ancient self to inhabit the body instead.

It worked, except those two souls are linked, my... friend, couldn't function without--

Hm. Yet more I am undeserving of, in the end.

I can't even respect the sundered version of one of my closest friends, so much so that he...

.....

[ There was a twinge of guilt across his face. ]

Hah! I wasn't alone! I had my colleagues by my side, all with the same goal of restoring our world.

[ It didn't take a therapist to see his eyes shifting their gaze away while he spoke. ]

Why would I be? You know what I have done, forgiveness is a concept beyond me.

deserve such grace?

There are those who welcome one man in their life, one man responsible for our demise, and almost the demise of everything yet again. Insanity.

Hm. Very well.

[ Nabriales cleared his throat. ]

It angers me that those of this era can stand up to, or outperform me.

How am I meant to keep up the principle of my seat as martial champion when I am outclassed!?

And what is with your tendencies to offer forgiveness to those who do not--

Then what, this is merely to allow me let out my frustrations?

Precisely! Which is why we had to do whatever it took to revert it, by any means necessary!

remained, in a world completely warped to our own.

Of course I do! It is presumptuous of you to believe we never grieved.

After Hydaelyn sundered our world, we were at a loss of words, everything we once knew was gone, colleagues, friends... and more.

Do you have any idea how that would feel like? To be left with nothing but those of us that--

How? It was working as intended until that organization you are affiliated with, ruined our machinations.

It is you who denied us what we desired most.

So very long ago... But only for a time, before our duty to return our world demanded our entire focus.

What would the point have been to continue grieving if we could reclaim those we lost.

All? My people and everything I cared for? Gone. I care not for these lesser beings that have replaced my people. And with the demise of my God I am without purpose.

So, all.

[ The Ascian pet out an irritated groan. ]

If I knew the answer to that, I assure you, I would not be in this building.

So you accept that by removing these weaknesses, that I will be free of what is holding me back?

There /what/ is?

Tch... A veritable font for that making for low hanging fruit.

Well, I wish to be rid of such weakness, and thus I come to you.

True, it seemed to be general negative outcome for all parties, your colleagues experiencing despair and rage, then combine that with Izumi's link to my aether and...

[ Nabriales rubbed his own neck. ]

Nobody won in that situation.

It was a unique method of attack, I must say, assaulting one's emotions indirectly.

If I wasn't still reeling from the humiliation, I would commend you.

There's no need to be coy. Being able to toy with one's emotions in a manner such as during our altercation for one.

Then there is the matter of delving deep into someone's darkest feelings, this could cause them dismay, am I correct?

That's not exactly true now is it? You can emotionally harm individuals with your incessant prodding into their lives, can you not?

And spoil the surprise? Please.

[ He sips the tea. ]

Hm. Not poisoned, and a commendable concoction. Turns out I'm the one to be surprised instead.