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Relatives
- ✞ Immortal Flame (Grandfather)
- ✞ Grandmother
- ✞ Smile of Heaven (Mother): Her mother is one of the Hollow. She became Hollow while pregnant with Nephis. Thus, Nephis was a hollowborn. When Nephis' grandmother was still alive, Nephis made a point of treating her mother's body as nothing but a corpse. But after her grandmother passed away, they were the only ones left.[1] Nephis thought of her mother as someone she had only heard about as being bright and wonderful before becoming Hollow. Seeing her mother in Cassie's vision as young, radiant, loving, and full of hope was strange for Nephis. She initially believed it would be a comfort to know what her mother was truly like, rather than just hearing stories or thinking of her as a ghost. However, witnessing her mother this way ultimately made Nephis feel lonelier.[2]
- In Chapter 2925, Nephis quietly let out a sigh, revealing a rare moment of concern—she was worried about Smile of Heaven, especially after the fall of Ivory Island, since neither she nor Sunny knew what had become of its inhabitants.
- ✞ Broken Sword (Father): Nephis thought her father was not indifferent or uncaring but was always busy and had a bleak demeanor, even when trying to appear more positive around her. She reflected that he was likely obsessed with his goal of conquering the Fourth Nightmare. Looking back, she realized that "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree," implying she saw some of his traits in herself.[2]
Love Interest
Sunny
“ People… people are usually either cruel or kind. But not you. You can be both, depending on the situation. Either ruthless or compassionate. Either cruel or kind. So that's what I did. I created a situation that would allow you to be ruthless and cruel. To leave me behind without showing any mercy. ” ― To Sunny,
Chapter 350 End of the Nightmare
Sunny is the person who knew her best in the world. He is her companion, friend, and pupil. He is her shadow, her compliant little helper.[3]
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Her first impression of Sunny is that he is a pervert due to the things he did in the Academy. But he managed to wash that reputation away by showing that he was a capable fighter by killing a Carapace Scavenger, an awakened beast, which impressed her.[4] Their time together in the Labyrinth taught him a lesson, that there was strength in numbers that surpassed individual power.[5] They grew so accustomed to each other that she simply assumed that they were going to continue working together after reaching the Dark City.[6]
She was later confronted by Sunny about her actual goals, due to the fact that he knew her well, she was not just trying to help people. She then revealed that while he was learning how to use a sword from her, she was learning how to use people from him. She learned how to be manipulative and vile from him.[7] And for her goals, she was willing to condemn everyone to death. This made Sunny unable to trust her again.[8]
After Sunny came back, she asked him to join their expedition. She sees him as a bit of an asshole but that makes him dangerous. He was the last person in the Dark City she would want to face in battle.[9] In the end, she told him, he is one of the two people she trusts in this world. That she only trusts him to have her back.[10] During the expedition, she revealed that the battle technique she taught him was part of her inheritance, leaving Sunny bewildered.[11] She saved him one time from being skewered by a spire messenger, telling Sunny that she can't risk it.[12] After they come back to the Dark City, she asked Sunny for a favor to prevent Caster from getting near her after her fight with Gunlaug.[13] She explained to Sunny that at first, she thought he was the one that was sent to kill her due to many things about him that didn't make sense.[14] On the way back to the castle, she asked Sunny how was his First Nightmare and proceeds to tell him about her First Nightmare.[15]
In their final confrontation at the Crimson Spire, in order for him to leave her behind without showing any mercy, she created a situation that would allow Sunny to be ruthless and cruel. She thought that abandoning him in the Forgotten Shore would be vile, and wrong. Just like leaving a helpless blind girl to die alone would. If she does that, it would be no better than those whom she wants to destroy and become the same as those she hates. Also, she lets Sunny go thinking he still has someone waiting for him in the real world, his sister.[16]
During the time she spent traversing the Dream Realm, she started doubting the memories of her previous life. The only connection she has left to the actual reality is the change of the runes describing Sunny. It was perhaps the only thing that kept her sane even if the things she was were sometimes hard to believe. The impossible Lineage that should not have existed, the divine Memory, the strange essence of his soul, the true nature of the taciturn stone demon and his Flaw. It seemed that Sunny had much more secrets than she had suspected. With the new knowledge, many things made much more sense now. She did hope that he was doing well out there in the real world with Cassie.[17]
During their conversation inside her dream, she told Sunny about her choice to leave him in the real world and not risk his life because she thought it was the right choice. She did it for herself, to spare herself from having to watch him die. She had to protect herself, too.[18]
Nephis kind of admired Mongrel because he is determined to resist the Spell. His will, combat mastery, and wisdom are commendable. But she blushed when Effie whispered to her that Mongrel is Sunny.[19]
Hers and Sunny's fates were entangled the moment they met in front of the Academy gate. They just did not know it at that time.[20]
Sunny and Nephis' relationship, despite being distant due to their choices, remained strong as battle partners. Their bond was forged in battles on the Forgotten Shore, and their ability to act seamlessly was even higher than the unity granted to warriors of Valor by forged swords. They had countless battles together, she had taught him how to wield the sword, while he taught her how to control her soul essence as a Master. Despite their differences, their bond remained unchanged.[21]
Sunny had gone against Nephis' wishes in every instance where it mattered. Afterall, he had abandoned her in the Dark City, refused to leave her in the Crimson Spire, and fled again at the grand ball of Clan Valor just to end up by her side. Despite all that, Nephis trusted Sunny.[22]
After the four-year time skip of Sunny being forgotten by everyone, Nephis acts differently around Sunless, a young man she promised to protect. She feels a strange sense of familiarity with him as if he reminds her of something she longs for. This feeling is peculiar but not unwelcome, with a slight sweetness and bitterness, but mostly just there.[23]
During their beach date, Nephis felt a strong emotional and physical attraction to Sunny, appreciating both his appearance and the thoughtfulness behind his actions. She was affected by his quiet intensity, his sculpted physique, and the contrast between his gentle demeanor and powerful presence. The gift he gave her, though simple, was cherished because of the intent behind it. She felt flattered by his desire and admitted to sharing his feelings. Being with him made her feel at ease and emotionally restored, leading her to view their time together as necessary care for her heart amidst the heavy responsibilities she carried.[24]
Nephis felt deeply conflicted upon realizing that Master Sunless — gentle, charming, and endearing — is the same person as the fearsome, aloof Lord of Shadows. She was struck by the stark contrast between the two personas. While Sunless was kind, soft-spoken, and made her feel at ease, the Lord of Shadows was cold, masked, and intimidating, putting her on edge.[25]
Despite her disbelief, Nephis couldn't deny the possibility. Both men stirred her emotions, both had mysterious presences, and both had left deep impressions on her. She was stunned and a little humiliated for not recognizing the connection sooner, yet also strangely intrigued and even flattered.[25]
Her thoughts spiraled through their past interactions, trying to reconcile the warm enchanter who made her waffles with the ruthless warrior who cut down Nightmares. Ultimately, she began to see how the pieces fit together — his mannerisms, his solitude, his attentiveness — all signs she had overlooked. Though confused and overwhelmed, a part of her accepted the truth and even found it fascinating.[25]
Nephis is disappointed but excited about possibly gaining the best of both worlds. Nephis likes Master Sunless's softness and safety, but she is sad that these qualities are deceiving. She explains that the man she has come to know is not an illusion, but a part of him that she has only been exposed to. She also mentions the Lord of Shadows, who she appreciates and wonders about.[26]
Nephis is confused about whether she has lost something or gained the best of both worlds. She admits that it is not how it was supposed to be and that she had planned to spend time with Master Sunless and enjoy herself. However, she realizes there is no "then" anymore, as even if she leaves Bastion, he will still be with her.[26]
In Chapter 1890, when Song has taken control of the Citadel and potentially eliminate the Sword Army, including its strongest champions, Sunny and herself. Her image of Sunny bleeding on Revel's sword flashes in Neph's mind, even though he doesn't bleed, her gaze turns cold.
In Chapter 2440, even though Nephis was no longer channeling the Name of Passion, she still felt its lingering effects. Normally, after pushing her Aspect to its limits, she would be left drained of all emotions. However, this time, she was instead filled with intense feelings. Among her desires to return to the illusory Bastion, to enjoy delicious food, fragrant wine, and the soothing comfort of water, one stood out clearly—she wanted to meet Sunny. Her longing for him was so strong that it felt almost frightening.
Nephis implicitly admitted her love for Sunny during their time in the Tomb of Ariel, acknowledging that he had made his way into her heart despite their earlier agreement, and affirming that she trusted him deeply even without knowing his past.[27]
Friends
Cassie
Cassie is one of the best friends she met on Forgotten Shore. No one knows what she's thinking, even Nephis, who is closest to her, could not tell what was happening in that head of hers.[28]
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She chose to help Cassie in the Forgotten Shore simply because she wanted to.[29] She is so protective of Cassie that when she hears her desperate screams, she radiates coldness and points her sword at Sunny demanding an explanation.[30] Cassie is one of the two people she trusts in this world.[10] Also, Cassie was the one who told her about Sunny's secret in hopes of saving her life. But she hoped that she would never have to use it.[16]
No one knows what she's thinking, even Nephis, who is closest to her, could not tell what was happening in that head of hers. Perhaps that was the curse of being a seer.[28]
Nephis' openness and frankness are rare, with Cassie being the only person she feels comfortable with.[26]
Effie
Kai
Enemies
Note: There is hidden information in this article. Click Show Spoilers to reveal.
- ✞ Caster: He was sent to kill Nephis by the Sovereigns.[13][33] When Nephis enrolled in the Academy she already knew someone received an order to kill her so he kept him by her side to use him instead.[14]
- ✞ Gunlaug: He was the ruler of Bright Castle when they arrived in Dark City.[34] He has done many despicable things but what Nephis cannot forgive about him was that he gave up.[7]
- Aster, Song, Vale: They were like aunts and uncles to Nephis before her father died. She also believed that they killed her father.[35]
Anvil and Valor Clan
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After the battle in the Breastbone reach of Godgrave, it's been more than five years—six for Sunny due to the Tomb of Ariel—had passed since Clan Valor adopted Nephis, whose status within the royal clan was peculiar. While the clan elders kept her at a distance and seemed eager for her demise, Anvil showed her unexpected grace, appointing her as nominal commander of the Sword Army after Morgan's departure. Sunny found Anvil's relationship with Nephis ambiguous, his emotions unreadable beneath the iron crown, though Nephis noted he was slightly more attentive to her, possibly due to her mother, whom he had mentioned a few times. Despite the Sovereigns' past attempts to assassinate her when she had no value, there was no clear indication of distrust or suspicion in Anvil's actions—only a curious inconsistency.[36]
Neutral
- Eurys: He was the one who offered to guide Nephis out of the underworld.[17][37] He reminded her of someone she knew.[17]
- Lord of Shadows: Nephis was uncertain about the Lord of Shadows' humanity and trustworthiness, yet she feels a strong desire to trust him.[38] She also found comfort in fighting alongside him, who was an impressive supporting partner. It was as though her shadow had come alive, fighting alongside her. The Saint played his role flawlessly and effectively, seemingly able to anticipate her moves and knew exactly where she needed him. Nephis was also attuned to his combat style, acting in unison without effort.[39] To Nephis, he was nothing like the rumors. He is considerate despite his tyrannical strength, kind despite wanting to appear sinister, and very shrewd despite his eccentricity. She was also smiling while talking about the Lord of Shadows and defended him from Effie.[40]
Others
The brilliant legacy of Changing Star, the last descendant of the Immortal Flame clan, was shone as a symbol of hope and light. Nephis had long been a cherished hero, embodying the aspirations of the people. Her renown was deeply entrenched, supported by admiration for her family and her own storied accomplishments: her victory at the Forgotten Shore, her return as a Master after a solitary journey in the Dream Realm, and her steadfast protection during the turbulent period of the Chain of Nightmares.[41]
She had built strong, enduring bonds. The Sword Army eagerly awaited her return, but surprisingly, she was also respected within the Song Army, despite being their enemy. This paradox stemmed from her shared qualities that transcended battle lines and her notable opposition to the King's declaration of war—a fact likely spread by Cassie. As a result, while the Song Army harbored disdain for other Sword Domain figures, especially the King, they regarded the daughter of the Immortal Flame with a sense of wistful respect..[41]
References
- ↑ Chapter 210 Shadow of the Past
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Chapter 1967 Lost Together
- ↑ Chapter 348 Unbroken
- ↑ Chapter 35 A Shadow, a Star and an Oracle
- ↑ Chapter 41 Strength In Numbers
- ↑ Chapter 133 Farewell
- ↑ 7.0 7.1 Chapter 167 Unforgivable
- ↑ Chapter 168 Outside
- ↑ Chapter 176 Coming Clean
- ↑ 10.0 10.1 Chapter 178 Lost Expedition
- ↑ Chapter 215 Shapeless
- ↑ Chapter 260 How To Be A Hero
- ↑ 13.0 13.1 Chapter 284 Nothing Serious
- ↑ 14.0 14.1 Chapter 285 Kill Order
- ↑ Chapter 286 Blessings of the Fire
- ↑ 16.0 16.1 Chapter 350 End of the Nightmare
- ↑ 17.0 17.1 17.2 Chapter 500 ...In the Depths of a Nightmare
- ↑ Chapter 769 Maybe
- ↑ Chapter 792 Blind Spot
- ↑ Chapter 808 A Long-Awaited Conversation
- ↑ Chapter 1195 Battle of the Black Skull (9)
- ↑ Chapter 1199 Battle of the Black Skull (13)
- ↑ Chapter 1705 Familiar
- ↑ Chapter 1811 Perfect Day
- ↑ 25.0 25.1 25.2 Chapter 1813 Behind the Mask
- ↑ 26.0 26.1 26.2 Chapter 1834 As Simple as That
- ↑ Chapter 2928 Confession
- ↑ 28.0 28.1 Chapter 1448 A Beautiful Dream
- ↑ Chapter 38 Questions in the Dark
- ↑ Chapter 90 Nightfall
- ↑ Chapter 170 Star-Crossed
- ↑ Chapter 19 Crossing the Bridge
- ↑ Chapter 338 Rest of the Mongrels
- ↑ Chapter 127 Abandon All Hope
- ↑ Chapter 778 In the Shadows
- ↑ Chapter 2025 A Bitter Triumph
- ↑ Chapter 750 Home
- ↑ Chapter 1667 Disarmed
- ↑ Chapter 1674 In Tandem
- ↑ Chapter 1700 His Own Worst Enemy
- ↑ 41.0 41.1 Chapter 1963 Brightest Star
Sources & history
Nephis/Relationships · Shadow Slave Wiki
Source revision 41851
Adapted from Fandom. CC-BY-SA
Retrieved 2026-11-04 · Article version 1