[Akechi hums again, quiet as he digests that information, processing it into terms he's more familiar with. Even if the vocabulary isn't something he's accustomed to, the concepts are nothing new or beyond his comprehension.]

And I'm sure after he was possessed by a demon, these Templars were only too happy to oblige his dying wish.

[He taps a fingernail against his water glass, still turning over the concept.]

To paraphrase Jefferson, the tree of liberty must be watered with the blood of patriots and tyrants. "Freedom" is a curious concept in our world, most people bound by chains invisible and figurative, but no less binding than those you speak of.

What do you think about all this, Cole-san? Being a spirit yourself, I'm sure mages must be of special interest to you.