Episode Title:
The Goddess's Trial
Episode Description:
Cid visits a hot spring; uncaring Alexia is already there naked. Hiding her embarrassment Alexia explains the Goddess Trial involves challengers duelling the spirits of famous warriors. Alexia is busy with the Archbishop’s murder and asks Cid to assist by joining the Crimson Knights, which Cid refuses before nonchalantly leaving, fully exposing himself to the intrigued Alexia. Alexia’s investigation is cancelled by temporary Archbishop Nelson, who just happens to be Alexia’s prime suspect in Drake’s murder. Alexia encounters Beta in her Natsume persona and both take an instant dislike to each other. Many fighters are humiliated when no famous warriors manifest to duel them, implying they are unworthy opponents. Cid is suddenly announced as next challenger, his entry fee having been secretly paid by Rose to show her father Cid’s potential. To avoid exposing his strength or embarrassing himself by faking a humiliating defeat Cid crashes the Trial as Eminence, his presence summoning Aurora, the Calamity Witch whom, according to Nelson, was the strongest witch in history. Alexia realises if Aurora manifested before Eminence it is possible he is the most dangerous man in the world. Cid defeats Aurora but is disappointed the duel was too easy, so he leaves. The arena barrier suddenly collapses and a new summoning spell is activated in response to Cid’s actions, impressing the observing Shadows.
