"Could this relic simply be trying to confuse us?"
"That is also possible; it may be related to the contract between the demon and Osenfott. But whether it is trying to confuse us or not, the relic itself is unimportant. What matters is that this behavior has instead revealed just how much it values Osenfott's soul."
The doctor pondered for a moment, then asked Shade again:
"Are you sure you are prepared to banish Stone Osenfott's soul immediately after killing him?"
"Yes. Three layers of insurance: the photograph, the nun, and Guilty Sinner. All my helpers are already in position."
The doctor did not ask further questions.
"On Friday night, you should still carry this dagger, but do not use it lightly."
"I understand. Actually, this dagger has other uses while it is with me."
Shade looked at the weapon lying on the table. After all, it was also a relic capable of absorbing certain kinds of energy. Once the current Blasphemy Cross collapsed, he would not need to rush to find another weapon.
"That demon really is rich. It can just give something like this away."
Shade muttered another comment, and the doctor glanced at him.
"It is an ancient evil that has remained active for a long time. It must have some valuable things in its possession. Oh, speaking of which, did it not promise to give you something after you completed its commission? It would be best if you could obtain them yourself, but if you cannot, then after I destroy it, those things will all be yours. Just as before, I only want the demon itself."
Shade nodded. What he was actually considering was whether to add a fourth layer of insurance to this matter.
What do you want to do?
"What would happen if Osenfott's