Edward reappeared above the estate grounds in a quiet flash of distorted space. In his right hand, he held the completed soul flag. The artifact felt heavy in presence, as if countless invisible eyes were watching the world through it.
The cloth was attached vertically along the pole, flowing downward instead of spreading wide like a war banner. It was a deep crimson red, dark enough to appear almost black under low light. Golden embroidery traced along its surface, weaving through each other in precise patterns. At the center of the cloth was the insignia of House Vistro, the wind falcon, wings spread wide as if ready to tear through the sky.
The moment Edward stepped fully into the air above the estate, Valerius felt his breath catch. He stood among broken stone and fallen bodies, his remaining hand clenched tightly at his side. He could feel it now, clearly and unmistakably. The pressure radiating from the flag was something else.
Edward raised the soul flag.
