linkClaudevolume_up
To sum up, we've agreed to an armistice with the Empire. From now on, our enemies are the Kingdom and the Church of Seiros.
linkJudithvolume_up
The church is our enemy now? You say it like you're just moving pieces on a chess board.
linkHolstvolume_up
To be clear, this is not a repudiation of the teachings of Seiros themselves. All we're aiming for is the dissolution of the Central Church.
linkIgnatzvolume_up
That would mean killing Lady Rhea. Is that really the right thing to do?
linkMariannevolume_up
I didn't speak with them very much, but Seteth and Lady Rhea didn't seem like bad people.
linkShezvolume_up
Those two aren't what they seem to be. If what the Empire says is true, that is.
linkShezvolume_up
Those two aren't what they seem to be. If what the Empire says is true, that is.
linkJudithvolume_up
I hate to say it, but it sure sounds like you let the Empire talk you into buying the whole store.
linkClaudevolume_up
Look, the Empire is obviously trying to use us as a means to their own end.
linkClaudevolume_up
But do you honestly think I'd agree to a deal that sets them up better than us? I'm using them right back.
linkClaudevolume_up
The balance of power in Fódlan has already collapsed. If we just sit on the sidelines, our position is only going to get weaker.
linkClaudevolume_up
By cooperating with the Empire, we can expand our influence and power as much as they do, if not more.
linkClaudevolume_up
This is the only way we can end the war quickly while maintaining Leicester's independence.
linkLorenzvolume_up
And for that purpose, you would throw Faerghus to the wolves, despite holding no animosity towards them?
linkClaudevolume_up
You and I may not hold any grudges, but if you look to our history, you'll see it was the Kingdom who tossed us to the wolves first.
linkClaudevolume_up
When our people were fighting for independence from the Empire, Faerghus attacked and conquered Leicester for themselves.
linkClaudevolume_up
And even after we finally won our freedom in the Crescent Moon War, they've continued to meddle in our affairs. Like causing that rift in House Daphnel.
linkClaudevolume_up
Besides, they're harboring the Central Church, and I can't condone that.
linkClaudevolume_up
I've always been skeptical of that dogma they preach. It's just a way for them to force their own belief system onto everyone else.
linkClaudevolume_up
Their creed legitimizes Fódlan's system of nobility, which values Crests above all else and leaves no room for people of different backgrounds or faiths.
linkClaudevolume_up
And if what the Empire says is true, then I couldn't even begin to count the number of crimes the Central Church has committed.
linkLorenzvolume_up
Claude! Are you saying that you intend to destroy our current system of nobility? Because that—
linkLorenzvolume_up
Not so fast. We have not finished our conversation. Just what exactly are your intentions for Fódlan, Claude?
linkClaudevolume_up
Honestly? I want to break this place wide open and tear down every last one of its insular customs.
linkClaudevolume_up
If we can't do that, then there's no real path forward. Now is the time to steel ourselves and take action.
linkJudithvolume_up
Are you sure? How exactly are you planning to explain all that to the people in the Federation who adhere to the church's teachings?
linkClaudevolume_up
Oh, I already have something in mind. In fact, I'll need your help to see it through.
linkJudithvolume_up
Well, you'll have it. I just hope whatever you've got up your sleeve is actually a good idea.
linkClaudevolume_up
It is. Judith, Lorenz, I need you to trust me and follow my lead for now, OK?
linkClaudevolume_up
Now, let's go wipe out those knights near Daphnel territory. Everyone, prepare to move out!