Progressing Through A Journey (Of Love)
Chapter 4
Author's Note: Here's the next chapter. It features more of Penelo and Larsa on the airship, but something occurs that Larsa had not planned. Thanks again to everyone who's been reading this. Special thanks to Mesphia and xSweetxYunax for your encouraging reviews!
Penelo woke up the next day in a similar state as yesterday; smiling with the sunlight filling her room. She really was enjoying herself. Every moment she spent with Larsa tightened the bond they had with each other. She couldn't explain it to herself. They had only known each other for two full days, yet it seemed so much longer than that. They had confided to each other on all the anguish they had endured from the past and described how it still affected them currently. They had comforted each other through their words and embraces.
This bond that only they seemed to share was so blissful; so pure and enchanting. They trusted each other completely. It was a refreshing realization to Penelo; that she could trust someone so much.
She had known Vaan for the majority of her life and had formed a bond with him as well; when they only had each other for support after the war. It was an immediate friendship for them. They had confidence in each other and relied on one another when the goings were tough. They both played the role of providing for the young orphans and assisted each other whenever needed. Whenever one of them broke down, the other was there to pick them up. So, in a way, they shared a special bond, too- they both relied on each other for survival.
And yet…despite their profound friendship, Penelo was never able to trust Vaan as much as he trusted her. She couldn't recall how many times she'd begged him to be safe and stay out of trouble. Most of the time, her pleading was futile. The position she was in now was evidence to that. Had he listened to her after Vayne's parade that afternoon, she would never have been abducted by Bangaa mercenaries and taken to a foreign city she hardly knew existed. How could she trust him after he'd disingenuously promised to avoid trouble and later found himself in quite the predicament? She could still feel the crushing impact on her heart when she saw her best friend being hauled off to the Nalbina Dungeon in chains. She had felt crestfallen and desolated at the sight of her friend parting her for an indeterminate amount of time. Her heart had shattered when she watched him leave- she didn't believe he would survive. And, buried underneath her despondency of that situation, she remembered feeling anger.
No, it wasn't anger- it was much more than that. It was raging indignation. He never heeded her warnings, her pleads. He was always the reckless, rash one- the one who procured far too many complications in both of their lives than necessary. And, yet again, he had placed himself in a dire situation after he had been caught purloining the Dalmascan castle.
Still, after all the heartache she had felt after he was sent off to Nalbina- after all that betrayal- she forgave him. She needed him just as much as he depended on her for survival.
And now it was even easier for Penelo to forgive him. He had opened her doors to a new world- a world in which she was able to harmoniously befriend an Imperial. Not just any Imperial either for that matter. She had befriended the son of the emperor of Archades. The youngest son who, despite his youth, was so much older mentally and emotionally. The son who looked upon her as if she was his equal.
For this reason as well, Penelo forgave Vaan.
Before he had settled down at a table and eagerly waited for Penelo to awake and eat breakfast with him, an Imperial soldier confronted Larsa.
"Milord…" The soldier began. "We must return to Bhujerba. We have just received a message from Marquis Ondore. Four criminals have been arrested for attempting to harm the Marquis. The Marquis's guards have them in cells at the moment, but are waiting to release them to the Imperials. We are to be the airship that holds them."
"You mean to tell me that they have the audacity to request that this ship hold the four criminals? What would we do with them? With all the other Archadian ships, why must it be this one to carry such a burden?" Larsa's voice was filled with rage. He promised Penelo that he would keep her from harm. He had protected her beyond sufficiency so far; he wouldn't break his promise to her now.
"Milord…I apologize for causing you frustration. When I had asked the same question, they informed me that we are the only ship destined for Archades- where the criminals' persecution is to be. Two airships are to remain stationary in Bhujerba for the following three months for investigation of the Lhusu Mines. Another one is bound for Rabanastre. We are the only ship in flight that is headed for Archades."
"The assault was meant for the Marquis, was it not? Why, then, is Archadia responsible for executing them?"
The Imperial soldier shifted uneasily. "Because Judge Magister Ghis took the responsibility, Milord. He mentioned having business to attend to in Archades and claimed to have 'need' of these criminals. He is also bringing with him a woman by the name of Amalia. She is part of the Resistance."
Frustrated, Larsa had no choice but to concede. If the Imperials held the responsibility for executing the criminals, then Larsa had to partake in the matter. He was the son of the emperor, and it was his job to enforce Archadian laws. He was going to have a conference with Judge Ghis after all of this mess; he was certain of that.
"Lord Larsa, I do not mean to disrupt your thoughts, but I can assure you of optimum protection. The Judge Ghis and his retinue will be aboard this ship so you need not worry about lax security. We will place you and your lady friend in a more private, secured section of this airship."
It is not my protection that I worry about. Larsa thought. I only want it to be safe for Penelo…
Larsa locked his eyes on the Imperial. "Very well. You are dismissed. Go inform the pilot of this situation."
"Yes, milord." The Imperial soldier hurried away to notify the pilot of the change in plans.
After the Imperial soldier left, Larsa headed for Penelo's room to inform her of their situation.
Larsa didn't need to walk far before he encountered Penelo. When he approached the dining area of the airship, Penelo had shouted his name and beckoned him over to the table she occupied.
"Sorry I'm late this morning." Penelo giggled as she saw Larsa rush over to seat himself beside her. "How are you this fine morning?"
Much better, now that you're with me.
"I am fine, although I am a bit troubled."
"What's the matter, Larsa?" Penelo asked, bewildered.
He sighed. He didn't want to upset her, but he had no choice. "We must return to Bhujerba, Penelo. We are to collect four criminals and take them with us to Archades for their execution."
"Return to Bhujerba? Those criminals- are they…the Bangaas?" She sounded distraught as she recalled being in their company. Her hands started shaking uncontrollably. "Please, Larsa, I don't want to see them again!"
Larsa quickly took hold of both her hands in his own, his concerned eyes locked onto hers. "No, no, no… I would never do that to you, Penelo…" He brought her hands to his lips and lightly pressed a kiss on each. "These criminals are humes. I will make sure that we are kept in a tightly secured area."
"O…kay…" Penelo couldn't hide her concern.
"Please do not fret, Penelo. I will watch over you the entire time. I will not leave your side…" He soothed.
"I trust you, Larsa. Thank you."
"I will do anything you want me to do, Penelo. All you need to do is ask me."
Again, Penelo unexpectedly flung herself at him and wrapped her arms around him. "I'm so lucky to have you as a friend. Thanks, Larsa."
"Y-your welcome…Penelo." Larsa choked out. He could feel his heart swell and throb in his chest.
Her voice was so soft in his ears. If this was a habit of hers, he was very grateful she directed it at him.
He was feeling somewhat braver at the moment, and decided to shift his mouth in front of her ear. Gently, he whispered in her ear, "Penelo, if you are frightened and need more comforting, please know that I am available all day. Do not hesitate to knock on my door during nighttime as well. " He hated how breathless he sounded. He had to practice nerving himself whenever he was this close to her.
"Larsa..?" Penelo asked hesitantly.
"What is it, Penelo?" He inquired tenderly.
"Um…tomorrow when those criminals board this ship- I was wondering if…if I could share a room with you..?" She felt her face flame up after she heard the words shoot out of her mouth. Since when had she become such a coward?
But coward wasn't the right word. She was appreciative. She was so grateful to have someone who protected her for once that it was strangely captivating. For once in her life, she didn't have to worry over the safety of others, especially Vaan's. It was relieving to know how much Larsa cared for her and wanted to keep her safe. She wasn't acquainted with this sort of protection and consolation and was finding it to be rather addicting.
Larsa was in another state of shock. "Sh-share a room with…m-me..?" His heart was racing so quickly now that he thought it would erupt. Any more pleasant surprises that she procured and he believed that he would burst! And to think that he would only ever dream of her asking him that!
Penelo was drowning in mortification. "I'm…sorry. I didn't mean to ask so much. That was so rude of me…"
Larsa immediately snapped out of his reverie. "Oh, no, no, no. Please forgive me. I was caught in my own thoughts. You may absolutely share a room with me. It would be mypleasure."
The thought of secretly ogling Penelo as she peacefully slept sent waves of heat through Larsa's body. To watch her tiny chest rise up and down as she lightly breathed, to see her hair, unbraided and wavy, flow onto her shoulders like a cascade of liquid gold, to admire her long eyelashes as they fluttered during her slumber- all these thoughts were pleasantly occupying Larsa's mind.
Instinctively, Larsa pulled her closer to him, strengthening their embrace. He would no longer have to dread being separated from her during nighttime. Even then, they would be together.
For the remaining day, Penelo and Larsa cheerfully jabbered away while strolling around the airship, hand in hand. They discussed how their childhood and family was like before it was disrupted. They described some of their family traditions during special holidays, and told stories of naughty misconducts they had committed when they were younger. When Larsa brought up a particular misdeed of him escaping his home and venturing the streets of Archades as a child, Penelo burst out laughing.
"I don't think you've outgrown that yet, Larsa. You were just wandering all around Bhujerba without your cortege a few days ago!"
Larsa laughed along with her. "Well, you're correct about that! I never was very good at remaining stationary in one place for such a long period of time. A prince needs to absorb some sunshine as well."
Yes, but do you have to escape in order to see sunlight? That'd be a pretty sad life!"
Penelo was merely teasing him but, although Larsa knew she meant nothing by that comment, he couldn't keep the saddened expression off his face.
Penelo looked down at him, bemused. "Larsa, are you alright? Did I say something wrong? I didn't mean it if it came about that way…"
"Oh, no, no. Please don't apologize, Penelo. The words you spoke were just very…veracious. Believe it or not, but I truly must escape in order to see the world outside of my country."
"Why?"
Larsa smiled at her wistfully. "Duties as the emperor's son tend to hinder my free time. Although I detest such an abstemious life, I am in no position to reject my duties. It would bring shame to House Solidor's name."
"But you have to enjoy yourself every once in a while! You only live once."
"True, but my duties come before my pleasure. It is the world I grew up in, Penelo. And it shall be the world I live in until death parts me from it."
"Larsa, don't say that. I don't want to think of you being miserable for the rest of your life."
"I apologize. I didn't mean to upset you, Penelo."
"Well, why don't you start living on the more rebellious side?" Penelo said jokingly. She wanted to lighten up the mood. She hated seeing Larsa in such a depressed state.
Larsa chuckled at that. "If I were to become a rebel, I would be defying my country and its people- certainly ironic behavior of an emperor's son. I would be a disgrace in my father's eyes. I could never bear that."
"Well, at least you're indulging yourself somewhat. I'm glad to see that you're journeying around the world a bit. It's an educating experience to see how other people are making out from the war, you know?"
"Yes, that was one of the reasons I decided to travel around the world. That, and just merely wanting to roam about a different, foreign land for once."
"I don't blame you, Larsa. I'd go mad if I had to stay holed up in a castle everyday!"
Larsa couldn't help smiling at her enthusiasm. "I'm glad you can empathize with me, Penelo. I must apologize for diverting our upbeat conversation to a glum discussion of my political life. I wish to enjoy myself for now. You can provide me with such joy."
"I'd be honored, Lord Larsa." Penelo teased.
For the rest of the day, Penelo fulfilled Larsa's wish with more stories of their childhood, family and friends, relaxing in the private sauna, and enjoying the refreshing breeze from the deck. Larsa was having such a lovely day with her that he lost track of time. It was suddenly nightfall when Penelo bid him goodnight and retired to her room where she would be separated from him for nine long hours.
Tomorrow is a new day, a far better day. Larsa mused. I will not leave Penelo's side, even while retiring for the night. Through the rest of our journey, I will be able to keep Penelo to myself entirely. Such a pleasant thought brought a smile to his face before he drifted to sleep.
Although the following few days would be as favorable as Larsa foresaw, the rest of the journey would not go as he had planned.
Penelo and Larsa both awoke to a startling commotion. Larsa hastily dressed in his regal attire and politely knocked on Penelo's door.
"Penelo, are you alright? I do hope the commotion hasn't alarmed you."
"I'm fine, Larsa!" She called to him from her bed. "You can come in!"
The door flew open as Larsa rapidly approached her bedside. "Penelo…it appears we have docked our airship in the Bhujerba aerodrome. The criminals must be currently boarding now."
"H-have you seen them, yet?" Penelo's voice trembled as she spoke. Images of towering Bangaas with their bloodcurdling shrieks and sickening torture weapons filled her head.
Oh, please let these criminals appear angelic compared to those Bangaas! She prayed to herself.
"No, I have not. And we shall not see them the entire flight. We are to be transferred to another section of this airship; a more private and secured section. And I promise to abide with you every moment here."
"I know… I just wonder how dangerous they are. If they managed to enter the Marquis's estate and nearly killed him, then what else are they capable of doing?"
Larsa clutched one of her hands and trailed his gloved thumb over the surface. "Penelo, you need not concern yourself with such troubling thoughts. I am here for you. I understand the image of those sinister Bangaas still haunts you now but, rest assured, these criminals' misdeeds do not even compare to the Bangaas' iniquities. You will never lay eyes on these criminals while on the airship."
His liquid blue eyes shimmered with reassurance. The sun glazed over his raven black hair and onto the engaging features of his face. To Penelo, he looked like a sweet, little cherub. She couldn't help smiling back at him when he looked so innocent and impressive. As Penelo observed him in the sunlight, she knew that one day, when he grew into all his features, he would be the most alluring and fetching man bestowed upon Ivalice. Even now, he had a certain charm to him.
"Penelo? How are you feeling now? You look somewhat contemplative."
Penelo snapped out of her muse and looked at Larsa. "Oh, I'm fine. Just thinking about… certain things…." She felt her cheeks flush. She had been daydreaming about Larsa. What had compelled that? She tried shaking the thoughts out of her head to focus. "So, um…when are we going to our new room?"
"I should think soon. Now that the criminals are onboard, we will probably be escorted to our new room in less than an hour."
"And the Imperial soldiers- do they mind my staying in the same room as you? I don't want to make things uncomfortable."
"It wouldn't matter if they are perturbed by the situation or not. It matters not to me how they feel about the situation. I only want to shield you from any danger, Penelo."
Larsa took a deep breath before bracing himself. Slowly and softly, Larsa reached out his arms and wrapped them around Penelo. He feared he would catch her off guard, and that she would pull away from alarm. But, to his pleasant surprise, he felt her warm arms around his waist.
"Thanks, Larsa." She mumbled, her cheek pressed against his somewhat thin chest.
He pressed his nose to her silky hair in response and smiled to himself, finally concluding that the desire for her embrace wasn't one-sided; she enjoyed it, too.
To his dismay, the embrace did not last long. A knock came from the door and an Imperial called out, "Milord? And, er, Lady Penelo? We are ready to lead you to your new room."
Larsa disentangled himself from Penelo, albeit reluctantly, and grasped her hand. "Are you ready, my lady?"
"I'm ready when you are." She beamed at him before they left the room.
When they had reached their destination, Penelo marveled at the sight of the private suite. The room was spacious with the finest silks stretched across each bed. The bedroom lead to a private kitchen and beyond that, another door led to the deck. There were two separate bathrooms, each with its own luxurious, marble, in ground bathtub. The expansive entertainment room consisted of a sumptuous fireplace with shelves of books and comfortable armchairs. Penelo noticed a chess table at the far end of the room as well. She was overwhelmed with excitement as she looked around at her new residence.
"Larsa, it's wonderful…" She breathed out.
"I hope you feel more comfortable now, Penelo. Please know that two Imperial soldiers will be stationed at the entrance of this private suite. Others shall be nearby the suite. They will give their all to protect us both."
"Yeah, I feel a lot better now. This is so nice!"
Larsa chuckled when he heard her voice return to its former, delightful self. "It pleases me greatly to hear your enthusiasm, Penelo."
"Let's go look around the entertainment room some more." She grabbed his hand and rushed into the room. "I can't believe we have this all to ourselves! My house was only a fraction ofthe size of this room!" She walked over to the fireplace and extended her hand over the cold logs. Sparks of flame emitted from her fingertips and onto the logs. In just moments, the logs were blazing with warm fire.
Larsa stared at her, wide-eyed. "Penelo, you never told me you could cast black magic!"
She smiled to him as he approached her side. "Well, I only know a little bit of black magic, but I'm learning more every month or so. But I am a pretty decent white mage."
"You are a…white mage as well!? Penelo that is quite the impressive talent! I could only wish to learn such a latent skill!"
Penelo laughed as she noticed how impressed he was. "Well, my family from my mother's side has passed down the ability to cast magic for generations. But I'm sure plenty of other people can learn it without it being passed down through bloodline. The magic may not be as potent as a true mage's, but they can still cast magic."
"Your family's ancestors were true mages! That is very remarkable and rare nowadays. If only I could use magic. How convenient that would be!"
"Larsa, if you'd like, I could try and teach you. I'm not a professional teacher, but I'll try if that's what you want."
"Penelo, I would be infinitely grateful if you were to teach me such a skill! But, if I cannot grasp the complex concept, please do not think you are at fault in any form."
"Sure, I'd love to teach you. It'll be my payment to you after all that you've done for me."
"You owe me nothing. You have provided me with much felicity for these past four days. I cannot thank you enough. You have nothing to compensate for."
"You're the ideal friend anyone would wish for, Larsa. Thanks."
"And you are the greatest friend I've had, Penelo. Please know that."
"Thanks, Larsa. I really appreciate all you've done for me. I can't wait to tell Vaan all about you. He'll be so surprised to know that someone from the Empire saved me and cared for me the way you have." Penelo sighed as she thought about her best friend. "I hope he's still alright… I don't want to think that he's gotten into even more trouble with my absence."
Larsa's face was contorted with panic and disappointment at the mention of Vaan. He was a moron to even think she wouldn't be concerned about Vaan. It appeared she had known Vaan for a great part of her life. The measly four days he had spent with her didn't even come close to that…
"Vaan and you are…close, then?" Larsa timidly asked, his voice filled with anticipation. He prayed their relationship was merely platonic, but he knew he should prepare himself for the worst. At the Lhusu Mines, it was evident that Vaan cared for her much more than just a friend. He only hoped it wasn't the same for Penelo.
"Very close." She started. Already, Larsa's heart was sinking.
"We've known each other since we were only four or five. When Vaan was twelve, both his parents died from the Plague. Since my parents were close friends to his, they took him in and cared for him. That's about the time we started growing very close to each other. Then, only three years later, the war took away my parents and brothers. Vaan and I were left to fend for ourselves. We've managed living with each other ever since. We have a strong bond in which we rely on each other for support. We've been together through all the tough times."
"Ah, I see…" Larsa was struggling to continue. He didn't want to upset Penelo by his concerned and disappointed look, but he couldn't force a smile on his face either. Vaan was very kind to him during the trip to the Lhusu Mines, but Larsa could not stop feeling jealous of him. All the years Vaan had spent with Penelo- Larsa would do anything for that time shared with her.
The question lurking in his head was stifling. He wanted to know the truth but feared it would pain him greatly. He had to ask to make sure…
"Um, Penelo..?" He asked diffidently. "I am merely curious on the matter- um; to what extent would you consider your relationship with Vaan is? Do you regard him as a friend, a brother? Or something else…?" He could feel his heart hammering his chest. His heart wasn't pounding hard because of excitement. This time, it was an agonizing nervousness that caused such frantic beatings in his chest. He inhaled deeply before bracing himself with the answer he was dreading.
Penelo looked at him, her brow furrowing with confusion. "Larsa? Are you asking me whether I think of him as more than just a friend?"
"Y-yes… If you do not feel comfortable answering that, then please forgive me for my blatant rudeness…"
"Oh, no. I just wanted to clarify. Well, Vaan is-"
But she was never able to finish her sentence. Right then, a chef entered the entertainment room to announce that lunch was ready.
Taking advantage of the interruption, Larsa took Penelo's hand in his and entered the dining room. He was somewhat grateful for the intermission. He was concerned about his well-being. If the words she spoke were the ones he feared hearing, he did not know if he would be able to cope with it.
For the rest of the day, Larsa avoided the situation all-together. He only wanted his memories with Penelo to be good ones.
Three days had gone by swiftly and peacefully for Penelo and Larsa while staying in their private suite. The two had fortunately not heard any news of escaping criminals on the airship and decided everything was going to be all right. The Imperial soldiers remained outside the suite anyway; providing their protection should the criminals find a way to escape their well locked cells.
Larsa and Penelo had just finished a large breakfast consisting of Archadian pinkberry muffins, scrambled cockatrice eggs, pancakes, and tea and were rushing out the door to the deck.
"It's really windy out today." Penelo stated. "Perfect weather condition for practicing some black magic." She turned around to face Larsa and smiled. "Are you ready?"
"Of course!" Larsa beamed at her. Although the past few days of practicing black magic had shown no progress for Larsa, he still persisted. He was going to persevere as long as Penelo believed he could acquire the ability to cast magic.
"You're going to have to practice a lot, Larsa." She had said a few days earlier. "For people not born with the ability to cast magic, it's going to be much more difficult."
"I shall try with all my effort, Penelo. Hopefully I will not disappoint you."
"Haha! Larsa, I could never be disappointed with you! If you can't use magic, then you just don't have the ability; no big deal. What you lack in some areas you excel in others. Just remember that, Larsa. No one's perfect. I have my flaws, too."
Now that I definitely disagree with, Penelo. He had thought after she had said that. No one could ever dream of being as flawless as you are…
"Okay, let's start!" Penelo's voice came. Larsa immediately refocused so he could pay attention to her lesson.
For the next three hours, Larsa's attempts to bring forth flames from his fingertips were utter failures. Sweat had formed on his white skin from straining so hard.
"Just remember: practice makes perfect." Penelo advised. She was panting slightly, a bit exhausted after casting magic for three hours straight. "For now, though, let's take a break!"
"Sure. I would enjoy some refreshments right now." Larsa wiped a bead of sweat from his smooth, porcelain skin before continuing. "What are your thoughts on that, Penelo?"
"Ha! You know the answer to that, Larsa!" She snatched Larsa's arm and dragged him through the door to the kitchen.
Two Imperial soldiers stood side by side at the front of the entrance to Larsa and Penelo's private suite. One was a short and stout skilled black mage and was holding his neatly wooden engraved staff in one hand. The other Imperial was tall and imposing, with two rather large swords latched onto either side of him.
"Do you believe the Lordling has brought that young woman with him for a reason?" The Imperial mage asked. His voice was very raspy as he spoke. "She is going to travel with him to Archades. To what region does she belong to, I wonder..?"
The large Imperial soldier merely laughed. It was a low, throaty laugh. "It does not seem to matter who or what she is. Have you seen the way Lord Larsa gawks at her? As if she's the best prize obtained!"
The mage laughed along with him. "True, true! He doesn't even try to conceal it! I'm surprised to see the young woman is oblivious to it! It is rather comical to watch."
"Ah, well have you gotten a good look at her yourself? I don't blame our little Lordling. He has quite the impeccable taste for women I must say! Whoo, was she a beauty!"
"Ah, impeccable taste indeed! Thin, hourglass waist, soft, creamy white skin, big blue eyes, and that radiating head of golden hair! Quite the exotic and uncommon features. Once she steps foot in Archades, all the men will be breathing down her neck!"
The taller soldier cackled at the thought. "Oh, I know I would most certainly be tempted to show her my room."
Both men guffawed at the dirty images ingrained in their heads. Before they could arouse themselves anymore, a sudden flash of red light filled the room along with a hair-rising alarm.
"What is going on!?" The mage exclaimed.
"It appears the criminals have somehow escaped…" Replied the tall one. His voice rose to a higher octave as he spoke. "How did they manage..?"
Sweat trickled down the mage's neck due to nervousness. "What shall we do?" He asked.
"We are to remain here and protect Lord Larsa. We cannot leave him here unprotected."
Both glanced around circumspectively before facing each other.
"They cannot possibly survive with all these Imperial soldiers on board." The tall guard reassured. "The others shall get them soon enough."
"What shall we do with Lord Larsa?" The mage asked. "Is there anywhere else we can take them?"
"No, there isn't. But I doubt the criminals even know the young Lordling is on this airship."
Suddenly, the red alarm went off again.
"Dammit! They're approaching!" The Imperial took out his swords to prepare for battle.
"Where are you going? I thought you said our duty was to remain here!"
The tall guard turned to face the mage and said, "Well, it seems as if the others couldn't hold them. We must eliminate them before they reach this area!"
The mage nodded and grasped his staff tightly. "You are right. Let us help the others!"
They wandered through the halls, observing everything ever so precautiously. Both saw a few soldiers on the ground from afar. They ran to them, kneeled down beside the fallen soldiers, and swore under their breaths.
"It would seem we've missed them." The mage whispered.
Just then, footsteps were clapping loudly against the hard floor and were approaching them. Both soldiers rose to their feet immediately and saw five figures surrounding them.
The four criminals and one other. The one other wore metal armor- a traitor to the Imperial army.
In the blink of an eye, the mage saw the youngest-looking man smirk before he balled his hand into a fist and hit the mage square in the midsection. The mage staggered backwards and fell to the ground unconscious. By then, the tall Imperial had been knocked out cold by a blow to the head from a scarred-faced, slightly weary-looking man. Both lay pitifully on the ground as the criminals escaped to their destination.
Penelo and Larsa had been securely seated on a sofa with a tray of refreshments set on a coffee table when the alarm had set off. Jumping up in fear, Penelo glanced around the room apprehensively.
"Larsa, what was that?" She managed to whisper.
Larsa looked just as frightened as she did. "An alarm…the criminals must've escaped…"
Penelo gasped and clapped her hand around her mouth. She uncovered her mouth before saying, "Larsa, are they heading in this direction? Do they know we're here?"
"That would be impossible…" Larsa murmured to himself. "They are unaware of my presence. They must be searching for an exit."
Penelo began to tremble, her knees buckled and she fell to the floor. Larsa rushed over to her side and locked her in a tight embrace.
"Penelo, I'm so sorry! I never expected this to happen! I promise I shall protect you with my life. Please relax, please…" Larsa could feel her quiver beneath his arms. He pulled her closer to him and reassuringly rubbed her back.
Penelo held onto Larsa with a death grip. "Larsa, where are the Imperial soldiers?" She never knew there'd be a day where she actually sought Imperial soldiers.
"I shall go check, Penelo. Please remain here."
Penelo stood up and grabbed his hand. "No!" She shouted. "I'll come with you."
Larsa squeezed her hand softly and permitted her to wander outside with him. When they opened the large door, Larsa was surprised to see the door had been left unprotected. Anger manifested through his body as he recovered from the shock. "I see these Imperial soldiers are quite the guardians." Larsa hissed sarcastically. His blood boiled at the thought of the soldiers running away pusillanimously once the alarm sounded.
"Larsa, maybe they went to help the others. Maybe the criminals were here before but left."
"You may be right, Penelo. I can only hope they've diverted their course. Shall we proceed?"
The two roamed around until they noticed unconscious bodies litter the ground before them. Larsa approached the bodies and noticed the two Imperial soldiers that had guarded their suite. Larsa bowed his head down in shame for thinking so cynically about them a few moments ago.
"They are alive." He stated as he felt for their heartbeats.
"All of them?" Penelo asked incredulously. She couldn't believe criminals who attempted to assault the Marquis would avoid murder in an airship.
"Yes. It would seem they are searching for something. For the meantime, they shall circumvent any interference merely by knocking the Imperials unconscious."
"What would they want? There isn't anything valuable on this ship, is there?"
"No, not at all. This is so perplexing…"
"They don't know that you're on this ship, so…is there anyone else on this airship besides the Imperial soldiers and us that they would seek?"
Larsa snapped his head up to look into Penelo's eyes. "Yes, there is someone else. A woman by the name of Amalia; in league with the Resistance."
"The Resistance…they attacked Dalmasca about a week ago."
"Yes, they are quite the active group now. But this Amalia…I've heard of her before…"
Larsa had heard the name mentioned a bit while wandering around the streets of Bhujerba. What was her significance aside from being an active member of the Resistance?
Larsa's thoughts were interrupted when another nerve-wracking alarm sounded. He glanced at Penelo and took her hand. "Penelo, we must leave this place at once!"
They rushed through the endless hallways, searching for any area where Imperial soldiers resided in. To their dismay, they found the hallways vacant. Where had they gone?
Larsa led Penelo to a large, empty room surrounded with tall, glass doors. Swiftly, he unlocked the door and rushed across the room.
Suddenly, a door perpendicular to theirs opened and six people entered the room. Penelo and Larsa stopped in their tracks to glance at the new members.
And then, Larsa's heart sank.
Vaan stood before them, gazing at Penelo with a yearning desire written on his face.
Larsa turned to look at Penelo and, to his dissatisfaction and dismay, realized that she was gazing at Vaan yearningly, too.
"Vaan…" She breathed out. She rushed over to him and wrapped her arms around him.
Vaan comfortingly stroked her hair with one hand and wrapped the other around her waist. "I know, I know…It's okay now…"
Sickened with heartache and lust to wrap his arms around Penelo so lovingly, Larsa forced himself to focus on the rest of the members. He met Vossler's eyes and asked about the current situation. Vossler explained in detail about the four 'criminals'- Vaan, Balthier, Fran, and Basch's- current situation. They had been accused of assaulting the Marquis-
--"Which was partially true, considering Basch had drawn his sword." The man named Balthier interrupted. The scarred-faced blonde man merely rolled his eyes at this and muttered under his breath, "He provoked it…"
-…and were placed aboard this ship. They had then encountered Amalia, whom Vaan and Vossler had been acquainted with before their confronation on this ship. Amalia was no other than the Princess Ashe who was assumed dead for the past two years. She was seeking power to regain her throne, but needed proof of her heritage. Vossler, being part of the Resistance, sought to protect Lady Ashe who also played an active role in the Resistance.
"It was mere chance that we met with the other four." Vossler concluded.
"I…see." Larsa muttered. In his peripheral view, Larsa could still see Penelo wrapped in Vaan's arms. He felt his heart pang painfully against his chest, as if it was weeping. He approached Princess Ashe and greeted her. "Lady Ashe, it is an honor. Now that I understand the situation, I should forewarn you on your activities. Though I believe you are indeed the princess of Dalmasca, proving your heritage will be most difficult without evidence. Surely, your appearance to the public will not be what the Marquis had foreseen. Your appearance to the public, when you deem it necessary, of course, will cause quite a ruckus. I am anxious to see how everything unravels in the end. I wish you luck on the rest of your journey."
"Very well, then. Thank you." Ashe replied somewhat stiffly. It would be a while before Ashe could ever manage to fully trust someone from the Empire, despite his innocent appearance and eloquent speech.
Larsa nodded and turned to Vaan as he heard him shout, "Thanks for keeping Penelo safe, Lamont."
Larsa's eyes were filled with grief as he noticed Penelo's left arm still wrapped around Vaan's waist. His heart was shattered at the sight. Penelo was going to leave him now. She was going to continue her journey with Vaan. He didn't know if he'd ever get to see her again…
How he longed to reach out to her and beg her to stay with him for just a while longer. Her company had been so blissful and wonderful. He didn't want to be alone in the political world again, not yet. He didn't want to wake up in the morning with nothing to look forward to. He didn't want to spend an entire day without seeing her beautiful smile. He wanted her and her alone. And he knew he couldn't have her.
Judging from the loving adoration Penelo and Vaan displayed with their embrace, Larsa knew he was too late. Penelo preferred Vaan. They had known each other much longer and had formed a bond Larsa could only dream of emulating.
Larsa felt a large lump in his throat as he choked out, "I must apologize for that. Please understand that I hadn't meant to deceive you."
Larsa rushed over to Penelo and flashed a last smile to her. "Penelo, for you." He took her hand, positioned it palm facing up, and placed a beautiful blue magic stone into it. "Archadia's manufacted nethicite. I sincerely hope it brings you good fortune."
"Thanks, Larsa." She beamed at him. He had never seen her so happy. He couldn't help smiling back. Inside of him, however, he was torn apart. He was extremely disappointed by the way their journey together had ended so abruptly and unexpectedly. He hadn't wanted to feel this way when Penelo departed him.
I probably would have felt this way, anyway. He thought pensively. The more days I spend in her company, the more I yearn for her in the morning the following day. If only we could be together forever…
Larsa didn't want to upset her. He had to look cheerful for her. This was the happiest he had seen her, and he didn't want to spoil it.
"I'll miss you, Larsa." Her voice trailed to his ears.
His pained heart suffered more as he heard those words. He didn't want to say goodbye, but knew he had no choice. So he locked onto her gaze, smiled brightly (and forcefully), and said, "Penelo, chances are we shall meet again."
She nodded in agreement. "I can't wait for that day to come."
Larsa smiled wistfully before saying, "Please take care, Penelo. I shall miss you every waking moment. I truly enjoyed your company. Farewell for now…"
He turned his back to her and nodded to Vossler. The two left the party and headed towards another airship.
Although he was surrounded by myriads of soldiers and with Vossler at his side the entire time on the new airship, Larsa had never felt so lonely.
Author's Note: Well, that was a much lengthier chapter but I truly enjoyed writing it. This chapter on top of all my schoolwork was very tiring but I have to admit, I'm glad I got the depressing part over with. That was always such a sad scene to me-when Larsa left the party. I must say, I was thrilled to be able to add this chapter at such a short period of time. Perhaps I'll be able to manage to update every week or so.
Anyway, how did everyone think about this chapter? Have I done a fair job so far on characterizations? Please review! I accept your constructive criticism! Any help I can get is much appreciated. I hope to have my story added to the list in the Larsa X Penelo Community. I think I'd get more reviews on the story that way.
Thanks again for reading this, everyone!