Analyzing the situation

Angel had expected this.

After concluding her investigation into the "Mirror Person" in Trier, she, as the "Goddess Shadow," had appeared to the Goddess Church to be doing practically nothing. Of course, secretly investigating Ince Zangwill's whereabouts, discussing tactics with Klein on the Grey Mist several times with Mr. Fool's help, and ultimately eliminating the defected Archbishop probably hadn't figured into the Church's expectations.

This had left Angel, who had already been promised an Unaging Beyonder characteristic, feeling a little guilty about showing up without doing any work. She had consequently thought the Church's higher-ups would make new demands when handing over her reward. Hearing Anthony's words now actually put her at ease.

"Is this about the Demoness Sect, or the real culprits behind the Great Smog?"

To demonstrate her enthusiasm, she took the initiative to ask.

"Both, in fact." A faint smile appeared on the Archbishop's smooth, beardless face before he turned toward Cesimir, who sat upright beside him. "Next, let Crestet explain the situation we're facing."

"Here's what happened. After Ince Zangwill died, Lady Iliya, the 'Goddess Eye,' arrived at the scene and performed Spirit Channeling on him, obtaining a great deal of important information from his remaining memories."

Cesimir, the "Goddess's Sword," shifted into a more comfortable position, crossing his legs and resting his hands flat on his knees. His bright red gloves were rather striking in the darkness.

"First, Zangwill stole '0-08' and defected from the Church because that Sealed Artifact exploited the psychological vulnerability left by his failed advancement. This doesn't lessen his guilt, but it does serve as a warning that regular psychological counseling and screening are necessary even for senior deacons and Archbishops...

"Second, his cooperation with the royal family and the Demoness Sect began after he became a demigod. The Great Smog