"...It seemed you already knew quite a lot about me, sir."
As Diga's words fell, Bonova's entire aura changed, just as expected:
"My introduction just now seemed somewhat unnecessary."
With every word Bonova uttered, the dome meticulously carved with the achievements of the God of Crafts seemed to press down a little further, while the sunlight shining into the cathedral through the stained-glass windows twisted along with it.
The statue of the God of Crafts at the very front of the cathedral, bathed in sunlight, suddenly appeared somewhat eerie.
"There is no need to be so angry, Mr. Augustus. Bernadette is still perfectly fine, but if we keep wasting time in this stalemate, the outcome may no longer be certain."
Bonova's gaze flickered. He seemed to be weighing his options, or perhaps confirming that what stood before him was merely a puppet or avatar whose death could not pose much of a threat to the original body.
Almost instantly, the oppressive atmosphere shrouding the entire cathedral dissipated.
"The time. The place."
Bonova did not waste his attention on unimportant information, asking only the two things that mattered most.
"Two weeks from now, on Escosen Island in Dixi Bay. They will be waiting for you there with Bernadette."
As he spoke, Diga's shadow flattened again:
"Oh, right. For Bernadette's condition and integrity at that time, it would be best if the other item being traded also remained in good condition and intact... I hope you enjoy your transaction."
"..."
Bonova watched helplessly as the other party returned to being a two-dimensional shadow and slipped through the gap beneath the door, leaving the cathedral protected by the ritual.
After a period of silence, Bonova pushed open the cathedral doors.
"Gather all the archbishops."
Not far from the Church of the God of