Chapter Nine: Comrades
Waking Sands
It was one of the rare nights wherein almost every single member of the Scions of the Seventh Dawn was present. From the top brass to the field agents to the group's own merchants and menders, everyone's downtime managed to align perfectly tonight. Friends and co-workers occupied whatever free spot they could find in the common area as they caught up with each other, trading news, stories or gossips.
"I… I don't know what to say." A male highlander in gladiator gear stammered at Luna. Even with the white facepaint covering most of his face, Arenvald was visibly surprised by the assignment Luna just told him.
"Finally your first real mission! Told you it was just a matter of time." a grizzled male miqo'te slapped the back of the young higlander who, despite the armor he wore, was still knocked off his seat.
A female elezen smirked at the miqo'te's cheerful roar. "Careful A'aba. Your 'proud papa' is showing." chided Aulie before turning to Arenvald. "But he is not wrong. It is a prestigious duty indeed. You have the right to be just as excited, but do be careful like we taught you." She advised before taking a sip of her tea.
"Stop mothering the boy Aulie." A'aba fired back.
Luna silently laughed as the two devolved into their usual bickering. As two veteran adventurers when Minfilia recruited them, they were enthusiastic in guiding the younger members of the Scions by imparting what knowledge the two had accumulated over their long careers. They also had a tendency to compete with each other in this matter, with Arenvald being their latest student in their competition.
Tuning out the argument to the background, Luna continued. "You need not be so doubtful of yourself, Arenvald. We carefully considered this and came to the conclusion you are more than ready for this." she echoed the words of his two teachers. "And guarding Noraxia will allow you plenty of opportunity to practice your Echo."
One of the newest addition to the Scions was their sylphic member, Noraxia. As their first beastman member, and important tie to the sylphs, she needed a guide when she stepped outside lest she be attacked by less tolerant folk. Especially with the increased garlean activity as of late. Having someone with the Echo on-hand should smoothen any future communication issues.
"You need not stay by her side all the time." explained Luna. "There should not be any issues while inside our headquarters."
Luna gestured at Noraxia who was conversing with another group, the sylph explaining her first impressions of the Scions.
"Walking ones from Ul'dah have not seen these ones before-this one knows. Still, must walking ones make such screaming sounds when seeing this one's face? This one cannot get a wink of rest!" complained Noraxia as she floated between Yda and Papalymo.
"Look, Noraxia," Papalymo explained from the box he was standing on. "I realize that this makes no sense to you, but you must try to be more discreet. Years ago, a law was enacted in Ul'dah whereby-" the lalafell sighed in defeat as he realized his explanation fell on deaf ears. "Please, just trust me and stay out of sight…"
On the other hand, Yda had more success in capturing the sylph's attention. "Noraxia and I both wear a mask!" She referred to the maple leaf attire the sylph wore. "We're going to get along famously, I just know it!"
Meanwhile at another table, two moon keepers managed to snag an elusive creature.
"So how many girls did it take to distract you this time." questioned Ula.
Despite the accusation, Thancred smiled back in jest. "I assure you I was completely devoted to the task given to me. It was truly a dangerous assignment filled with close calls and exciting adventurers!" he boasted.
"Yeah, yeah. I'm sure that charm works on all the ladies."
Nevertheless, both Ula and Thancred laughed at their own banter, having done the same thing many times before.
"Still you weren't one to wear tokens before." Ula pointed to the new necklace Thancred wore. "Must have left a good impression."
"Yes… I believe they did..." Thancred trailed off as he absentmindedly fiddled his necklace, seemingly lost in memory before remembering where he was. "But my absence wasn't much of a hindrance. I hear Noctis did admirably in liaising with our Ul'dahn friends."
"Wasn't too hard." Noctis answered back.
"Fortunate to have another member in good standing with Ul'dah's upper council." Thancred lifted his glass to toast Noctis. "But i heard there was a commotion among the guards the same night your meeting was held. Complaints of heavy security at the gates."
Noctis coolly took a sip of his drink. "No comment." Which elicited another laugh from Thancred.
"How diplomatic."
A crash of falling items interrupted their conversation. Due to the noise level of the room, only the three heard the commotion while everyone else remained oblivious. Curious, Ula stood up from their table followed by Noctis, Thancred was content to remain where he sat.
Rounding behind a stack of wine barrels in front of an alcove, the two found Tajih, the Scions' exclusive merchant, fretting over a female elezen. The scattered potion bottles littering the floor the most likely source of the noise they heard earlier. Despite the mess, the female moon keeper merchant was more concerned with the elezen.
"Liavenne." Tajih meekly called out but the elezen ignored her. "You don't have to clean them. Um… can you please put that down?"
"Nope. I made this mess I'm cleaning it." It may have sounded reasonable but the way Liavenne slurred her words betrayed her true state.
Which explained why she was using a rake to futilely sweep the bottles. The glass containers easily passed through the gaps between rake's teeth.
Tajih tried to removed the pointless cleaning tool but Liavenne easily shrugged off the smaller miqo'te.
"Okay, I'll be the one to take that." Ula helpfully stepped in, having more success wrenching the rake from Liavenne.
With nothing in hand, Liavenne stared at her empty hands before turning to her gathered audience. Her blank look and rosy cheeks gave further proof of her inebriated state. Taking pity on Liavenne, Ula took the elezen by the shoulder to guide her away from the mess she created.
"C'mon, let's get you to a table. Noctis, mind taking care of this?" Ula pointed to the still scattered bottles.
"I got this." Noctis took the rake as well and placed it along the wall.
"Typical. Can't even clean-up after my mess." Liavenne rambled without any care. "No one's ever expected much of me. Fine job of living down to expectations I am."
Liavenne's self-depreciation was nothing new. Anyone spending just a few minutes with her revealed just how much self-pity she had even when sober. Despite the fact she would hate it, Noctis couldn't help but feel pity for the elezen woman. Liavenne constantly blamed herself for failing to protect the man she loved. Something Noctis could very much sympathize with and might possibly be able to help with one day. Not tonight however, Ula would be the one to handle the elezen.
"I can pick them up on my own." Tajih meekly suggested even as they both gathered the fallen bottles.
"I'm sure. But some help will make it easier." Noctis comforted the mousy moon keeper.
When the last bottles were repacked into their boxes, Tajih politely thanked Noctis before she suddenly remembered something. "If I may ask, are you fine with your new clothes?"
Noctis curiously looked over his attire trying to figure own what she meant. "No complaints." He pulled on the fabric of his shirt. "Why? I am I wearing this wrong?"
Tajih frantically waved her hands back and forth. "No no no! You wear it well- I mean you're wearing it well- right! Wearing it right!" She took a deep breath to calm herself before continuing. "I mean… we can provide you with clothing with more protection. Especially since you're fighting stronger monsters." she explained. "If you need anything better just tell me and I can get it. No matter how hard it might be!" She passionately proclaimed, complete with fist pump.
It was admirable just how dedicated Tajih was to her duty in supplying the Scions, but Noctis wasn't going to impose too much on the young miqo'te. Of course, his current clothing was nowhere near as protective, or as stylish, compared to his old fatigues. There could be clothing in Eorzea that could match the same function and style, but considering his old clothes were personally made for the royal family, it wasn't something he could currently afford with his meager earnings. As long as it fit and allowed him to move freely in a fight, it was good enough for him.
"I'll keep that in mind. Still need help?"
Tajih shook her head. "I just need to make sure nothing else was damaged. I can do that on my own now."
Exchanging farewells, Noctis left the miqo'te merchant and back to the dining tables. His table sat empty. Thancred had disappeared to who knows where again and Ula wasn't around anymore. He contemplated joining Luna but she was busy speaking with some students from Baldesion.
"Hey Noct!" Alex beckoned him to join their table. "Ula told me to tell you she was going out for the night. After she plopped down Liavenne over here." He motioned to the same elezen sitting beside him, collapsed on the table as if she was asleep.
"Weird. She usually doesn't bother going out this late." commented Noctis as he sat down.
"That'll be my fault. Took one look at me an' bolted." Una melancholically answered from her spot, nursing the cup in her hands.
To say the situation between the Tayuun sisters was difficult would be an understatement. The older Tayuun no longer broke into tears upon seeing her sister, but it would still take time before Ula could muster the composure to properly talk to the sister she could not recognize, despite the glaring evidence.
"She's not trying to be mean it's just hard for her-"
"Don't pity me rookie." Una sharply answered back causing Alex to flinch. "Ye don't know what it's like when yer own family can't recognize ye." She took a swig of her drink. "We was close y'know, before I joined the Path. Practically raised me when we left that elemental-forsaken Coeurclaws."
"You used to be part of those poachers?" Alex suddenly asked which earned him elbow to the side from Noctis.
Alex's sudden interruption halted any further tirades from the miqo'te. Unfortunately, it left an awkward atmosphere until another party at their table spoke up.
"It is not so surprising." Dariustel, a male duskwight elezen, commented. "I myself used to be part of the Redbelly Wasps, but I foresaw that kind of life would lead to an early grave. In just so happened Lady Minifilia recognized my gifts and offered me an invitation to join her own group. She said, 'No matter one's past transgressions, all who have seen the dream are welcome'. Even for those as ours." He motioned to still silent Una. "I have heard offers such as these before, usually as naught more than bait for the hangman's noose. Thankfully this one was more sincere."
"It doesn't matter where you're from anyway." added Noctis. "Making the world a better place isn't limited by borders."
"That sounds like a hero straight from a story book would say." Dariustel amusingly remarked. "But if this ragtag band of idealists could lay the XIVth low, that just might be possible." he raised his glass at the idea.
Noctis smirked back and copied the toast.
"Uh… a little help here?" Alex weakly piped up.
Apparently while Dariustel and Noctis were conversing, Una had drank more than she could handle and ended up falling asleep on Alex's side. It didn't look like she was getting up anytime soon.
"Looks like our companions are done for the night. Ah, what perfect timing. Draegawyda!" Dariustel called to a person walking past their table, stopping when she heard her named called.
"What did you want Dariustel."
"As you can see our companions can no longer continue. Would you be kind enough to escort them back to their rooms?" the elezen politely asked.
The sea wolf narrowed her eyes at at the duskwight. "You better not have called me because I'm a roegadyn."
"Heavens no." the elezen calmly answered. "I'm sure your roommate would feel better it was you than one of us who brought her back."
"Twelve above, again Liavenne?" No answer from the passed-out elezen. "Fine. I'll bring her back. And yes-" She saw Alex raise his hand. "I'll come back for her too."
"Thanks."
Draegawyda expertly picked up the Liavenne and threw the elezen over her shoulder. As the roegadyn neared the entrance leading to the hallway, the doors opened as the new arrival inadvertently blocked the sea wolf's path.
"Antecedent." Draegawyda greeted Minfilia. "Excuse me." she walked past without another word.
Minfilia watched the Draegawyda walk away with Liavenne over her shoulder, slightly curious about the reason for it. Setting it aside, she continued her entrance to the common area but stopped for a moment.
"Minfilia?" Luna approached the stationary Antecedent. "Did you forget something?"
The blonde hyur shook her head. "I was just marveling how much we've grown." Minfilia fondly looked over the various Scion members filling the common area.
Luna smiled at the thought and looked at the gathering as well. "We have indeed." She remembered just how they started, the three of them in a small room underneath Ul'dah. "Come." Luna placed a hand on Minfilia's shoulder. "While it is satisfying to watch, it is more enjoyable to join in with everyone."
On cue, Luna spotted Noctis waving at them, an invitation to join their table which the two ladies gladly accepted.
Limsa Lominsa
The mariner city-state was just as Noctis remembered. The salty aroma of the sea and its glistening waters made him want to find a good spot and just cast his line into the seawater. Unfortunately, he was back in Limsa for business not pleasure. With one last longing look into the ocean, Noctis followed the rest of his group to the upper decks of the city.
Crossing one of the many long bridges connecting the upper decks brought Noctis's group to the Maelstrom Command, the headquarters of Limsa's very own Grand Company. Alex took the lead, followed by Noctis and Ula, and approached a scarlet uniformed officer to inform them of the Scions' arrival. It didn't take long for the commanding officer to arrive and greet them, having been expecting them since the Scions agreed to their request for assistance.
Introducing herself as High Commander R'ashaht Rhiki, the female miqo'te sunseeker wasted no time explaining the issue on hand.
"It is as we told the Antecedent." the commander started. "The kobolds have once again summoned Titan. A little over a moon ago, we began to observe the beastmen moving south in increasing numbers from O'Ghomoro. Our scouts subsequently confirmed the object of their aggression─"
"Crystals. Fodder for their fell primal."
Instead of reprimanding the person who interrupted her, the high commander instead stood at attention and saluted the new arrival, as did all the Maelstrom soldiers. A female roegadyn of the sea wolf tribe, with pale bluish skin and short white hair swept backward, walked with authority to their gathering. Though the high commander of the Maelstrom snapped to attention at her, she did not sport the same crimson colors but wore a low cut, long black coat, similarly colored black boots, and white gloves with cuffs. On her shoulders were decorations sporting the flag of the mariner city-state.
A fitting ornament for the Admiral of Limsa Lominsa.
"Thank you, High Commander." the admiral stood in front of the group easily towering over them. "You may leave the rest to me."
She wasn't the only new arrival. Y'shtola followed behind, having split from the group earlier to speak separately with Admiral Merlwyb Bloefhiswyn in her office. The was initially the plan at least.
"Forgive the lack of forewarning, High Commander. The Admiral wished to address Alexander personally." Y'shtola explained the reason for their sudden arrival.
"Word has spread of your accomplishments, Alexander." Merlwyb greeted the once lominsan envoy before addressing the rest of the gathered Scions. "On behalf of Limsa Lominsa, I thank you all for heeding our call."
With the greetings out of the way, the admiral resumed explaining why they required the Scion's assistance. One of the beastmen tribes, the kobolds had reawakened their primal Titan, another familiar name for Noctis. Though if Ifrit was any indication, this primal Titan would have little similarity in appearance with the astral Titan.
"So it is that we turn now to the Scions of the Seventh Dawn," the Admiral finished. "Confident in the belief that you are Limsa's best hope."
"I hope you are right. Yet the situation is far from simple." Y'shtola countered. "The kobolds are not prone to unprovoked aggression. Did not the thalassocracy make a pact with the beastmen that each would keep to their own lands, and that no blood would be shed?"
As the Scion assigned to Limsa Lominsa, Y'shtola provided the relevant insight of the city-state's relationship with the beastmen tribe, especially since the kobolds were not as willing to engage in diplomatic negotiations as the sylphs. Unfortunately this meant bringing certain truths to light.
"... and was it not the Lominsans who violated this agreement, dissatisfied with their lot? Shall we then condemn the beastmen for defending their homes?" Y'shtola rhetorically asked. "Even a pirate must one day reap what she has sown."
Ula snickered, not helping in anyway to ease any possible hostiles such an accusation might have garnered.
High Commander R'ashaht bristled. "I would advise you to choose your words with greater care, Lady Y'shtola!"
"Stand down, High Commander. She has the right of it." Thankfully Admiral Merlwyb was more level headed. "And the wrong is mine. Freely do I claim it. Yet it makes little difference. Remorse will not shield us from Titan's wrath." She directed a hard gaze at Y'shtola. "... or would you have us fall upon our swords?"
"My apologies, Admiral." Y'shtola bowed for emphasis, seemingly conveying some form sincerity. "The safety and security of Limsa Lominsa's citizenry are, of course, of paramount concern."
Merlwyb accepted the apology without any other issue, keen on solving the matter at hand than waste time on soothing egos. After confirming the Scion's commitment, the Admiral gave them her thanks, as well as the full support of the Maelstrom before returning to her office. R'ashaht looked to still be miffed at them but professionally told them to ask for assistance if needed.
Ula wasted no time capitalizing on it. "Can you arrange for transportation to Costa del Sol?"
The maelstrom commander nodded in response. "Easily enough."
"Hope you like the sea, boys. We're headed to the beach!" Ula happily exclaimed.
"So, why Costa del Sol?" Alex finally asked after they boarded the chocobo carriage headed to the aforementioned beach. Unlike Ul'dah's this had wheels and the ride was a little bumpy.
"My old commander works there now as head of security." Ula explained. "He's our best chance in finding the way to get to Titan."
"I'm quite surprised you are unable tell us how to do so yourself." Y'shtola argued. "Not even even the slightests of hints."
Ula's ears flatten against her head at this accusation, face falling. "While I know what we did to get to Titan, I don't know how we found the way to get there in the first place. How was I supposed to know I would need to know the specifics in the future?"
"I would think since joining a group dedicated to countering the primal threat."
"Since when?" Ula hotly countered, ears rising in response while her tail thumped against her seat. "I didn't hear anyone attributing any primal defeat to the Scions. At least the Company of Heroes could claim they had. Two even!"
"Then why," Y'sthola asked, tone carefully level, "Are they no more?"
The last question seemingly knocked the wind out of Ula's sails, her ears flattening once more as she sported a pained expression then suddenly fell silent. She could not look at them and instead focused her attention on the passing scenery.
Noctis noticed Y'shtola looking guilty at the sudden pensive mood of Ula. The Sharlayan miqo'te looked like she wanted to say something but Noctis managed to catch her eye and shake his head to dissuade her. It was best to let things cool down for now even if it left the rest of trip an awkward atmosphere.
Ula didn't speak again until their ride stopped at a Maelstrom watchtower, informing them they still had a ways to walk to their proper destination. The group silently marched on until they passed a set of gate towers, where the rocky path turned sandy and they could now hear the sounds of the surf. They finally arrived in a resort-like area which reminded Noctis of Galden Quay, only bigger. Aside from Ula asking the posted guard for their captain's whereabouts, no one else spoke as they entered Costa del Sol.
The group attuned to the local aetheryte, before continuing past a bar and onto one of the many elevated wooden platforms above the beachfront, till they found the captain of the guards standing on a circular walkway. The blue-skin roegadyn eyed the arriving group with suspicion until he recognized the person leading them
"If it isn't Ula." the roegadyn welcomed the miqo'te.
"Hey captain." Ula greeted back. "Everyone this is Wheiskaet. Former captain of the Company of Heroes."
While he was being introduced, Wheiskaet surveyed the rest of Ula's companions. "You said you needed to talk, but I didn't expect a whole group with you." the roegadyn looked over them, not difficult with his large stature. "They need of some work?"
"We have no need of the sort." Y'shtola quickly rebutted. "Our goal is the knowledge of how to enter Titan's lair."
The roegadyn paused, leveling a long stare at her. "Pardon? You wish to slay the Lord of Crags?"
"We must slay him, Captain." corrected Y'shtola. "The people of Limsa Lominsa are depending upon us."
"Hmpf." Wheiskaet grunted and turned to Ula. "I would have thought you of all people would have dissuaded them from any delusions of grandeur." Causing to the miqo'te to flinch at the accusation.
"Don't just assume we're here to play at being heroes." Alex came to Ula's defense. "Both of us-" He pointed to himself and Noctis. "Fought Ifrit and know just how dangerous these primals are up close. Lives are at stake if we don't defeat Titan."
The roegadyn captain raised a skeptical eyebrow. "Just the two of you?"
"Be not so quick to judge." Y'shtola came to the defense this time. "They are both blessed with a power that protects them from primal influence. Thus were they able to lay low the Lord of the Inferno." There was almost a hint of praise in those words. "We know full well the risks, and have taken every possible precaution."
"Men who can't be tempered? Useful..." He looked closer at Noctis and Alex but didn't seem too impressed. "But it will not be enough. It is true that the Company of Heroes fought and felled primals─but each victory was bought with the lifeblood of brave men and women."
He glanced once more at Ula who still remained silent.
"And Titan was the worst we faced. Aye, we defeated him─in the end─but he took from us some of our very best." Again another glance at Ula. "Even if you possess the power you claim, I have no reason to believe you will succeed."
"We'll still try. Whether you believe us or not." declared Alex. "We won't let Titan threaten the lives of Limsa."
The roegadyn narrowed his eyes at Alex. "You are determined, I'll grant you that…" Wheiskaet tilted his head in thought. "At the very least, I must have assurances that you are more than common adventurers. I oversee security for Master Gegeruju's estates. Perhaps you can demonstrate your abilities by attending to one of our─"
"Ye gods, man─have you heard nothing I have said?" Y'shtola was tired of talking in circles. "We have not the time to perform trivial tasks. The enemy is at the gates!"
Unfortunately, the outburst did little to sway the former Company of Heroes commander. "Do you imagine words can sway me, girl? If you dislike my conditions, then you are welcome to find your own way into O'Ghomoro."
"Wheiskaet." Ula finally spoke up to diffuse the tension. She let a few seconds pass to let tempers cool.
"I know more than anyone how costly fighting Titan was." she started. "But they're different. I've fought both of them personally. They can fight Titan, they can win… without the necessary sacrifices." Ula bowed her head in remembrance.
Wheiskaet closed his eyes in thought, considering his old companion's words. He let out a heavy sigh. "Be that as it may, you know why we cannot just give out what they seek."
Ula sighed in resignation. "Stupid pacts." she muttered under her breath.
The captain turned to the two primal-slayers. "If you wish to fight Titan, you will have to prove to me you have the skills Ula states you have."
It seemed Y'shtola wasn't in agreement with this roundabout method again and was about to speak up until Noctis cut her off.
"If this is what we need to do let's do it. No point wasting more time arguing." He shot Y'shtola a look. Thankfully she did not argue any further.
"The faster we finish this, the faster we get to Titan." Alex added and pounded his fist into an open palm for emphasis.
Wheiskaet nodded in agreement, finally satisfied with the determination the two showed.
"Two highly distinguished individuals are scheduled to visit Costa del Sol in the near future, and Master Gegeruju wishes to welcome them with an elaborate banquet." the captain explained their challenge.
It was simple enough, find rare ingredients that couldn't be simply bought and bring them back for the banquet. As to how this was connected to the Company of Heroes.
"Many of the mercenaries who once served under my command still live, and they will guide you in your quest. For the first ingredient, I would have you travel to the South Shroud and speak with Landenel at Camp Tranquil."
After assigning the two men their first task, Captain Wheiskaet excused himself as he had duties to do, but not before asking Ula to accompany him once she was done speaking with her group.
"Sorry guys." Ula immediately apologized. "I tried my best but there are somethings you just can't go back on your word on. It may sound stupid but trust that what you're doing will get us what we need."
"Don't worry. We'll show him your trust in us is not misguided."
Ula smiled gratefully at Alex.
"Plus I doubt you'll let us do anything pointless." added Noctis. "Better to get something done than continue an exercise in futility." He shot a Y'shtola another pointed look.
She let out a defeated sigh. "Though it pains me to admit it, I concur with Noctis. As much as I wished we just pressed him for the information."
"I doubt constantly demanding people to give things all the time will work out, Y'shtola." Alex pointed out.
Y'shtola simply shrugged. "Yet much remains to be done if we are to best Titan." she continued. "While Noctis and Alex are undertaking this task, I will use the time to see to the remaining preparations."
The Maelstrom Command would want an update on their situation in finding a solution for the primal. At the same time Y'shtola could receive any new updates from the grand company's surveillance of the kobolds. She would handle the bureaucracy while Noctis and Alex handled the legwork. As for Ula, she had her own sudden request to undertake.
After saying their farewells to each other, Noctis and Alex teleported all the way to the South Shroud. Time was of the essence after all.
Costa del Sol
Something was ringing.
Noctis groggily reached his bedside for the phone to turn the alarm off. Unfortunately his hand came up empty no matter how much he pawed for the device. It continued for a while until enough of the grogginess dissipated and his brain finally remembered where he was. Raising a finger to his ear, Noctis activated his linkpearl.
"Yeah?"
"Finally." The exasperated voice of Alex came through. "You awake now?"
"More or less." Noctis fought back a yawn.
"Hopefully more 'more'. Called to tell you I'll be doing some pest control for some goblin settlement."
Noctis wondered if his brain was still just half asleep and not hearing things right.
"It's the only way we're going to get the cheese we need." Alex continued.
Another pause as Noctis really tried his best to comprehend what Alex was trying to tell him.
"This for the banquet?"
"It's for the banquet."
A grunt escaped Noctis as he sat up from the bed. "Where do I need to go?"
If this cheese was for the banquet, then it was most likely one the trials they had to complete.
"Actually… I ran into some old friends." Alex paused before continuing. "We should be able to take care of this ourselves."
"You sure?" Noctis rubbed his eyes trying to remove the last vestiges of sleep away. "Aren't we supposed to be doing the all task?"
"Well, Wheiskaet did say the cheese was supposed to delivered so technically we weren't supposed to do this." Alex replied. "And I don't think it's a good idea to delay rescuing the settlement."
"I guess that makes sense." Noctis absentmindedly commented.
"Maybe you can ask around if they need anymore help?" suggested Alex.
"Sounds good." agreed Noctis before Alex hung-up.
Fully awake after the linkshell call, Noctis stood up from his bed and left the quarters he was using through the tent flaps. The morning sun greeted him along with the salty scent of the sea.
After completing yesterday's numerous tasks, Noctis was practically about to pass out once they returned to Costa del Sol. It didn't help they were teleporting to each destination to get everything done as fast as possible. Since they had to wait till the feast was over before they got the information they need, Alex suggested they stay at Costa del Sol till then or just camp out nearby in case the prices were too expensive.
Surprisingly, they were allowed to stay for free when they mentioned they were doing official work for Scion of the Seventh Dawn. Noctis wasn't even able to score such a freebie before when he was royalty, but then again he was trying to stay incognito back then. Too tired to scrutinize a gift from a chocobo's mouth, the two stayed overnight in one of the smaller cabanas ontop of the wooden platforms.
One last stretch outside the tent fully woke Noctis before he crossed the wooden pathways to find the former Company of Heroes captain. Weirdly, Wheiskaet was at the same spot as yesterday, but it did make it easy to find him again. The old commander corroborated Alex's story, but didn't seem so surprised when he heard about liberating the goblin settlement. Since Wheiskaet didn't bring up the fact Noctis wasn't participating in the endeavour, the remaining Scion instead inquired if there was any task that he needed to do.
Thus Noctis ended up with the fitting task of gathering a large amount of tuna. The eager fisher traveled to North Bloodshore, appropriately north of Costa del Sol, where he was told he would have better luck consistently catching species of Ash Tuna the banquet needed. Sure enough with the proper jig equipped, Noctis was reeling in the target fish one after another. Noctis serenely cast his line, reeled in his catch and repeated the process until the arrival of another person at his secluded spot caught his attention.
"Noctis!" Ula loudly greeted him. "Hard at work I see." she cheekily commented.
"I am doing this for work." Noctis casted another line. "I'm not the one dressed for a good time on the beach."
"You mean this thing?" Ula referred to the swimwear she was wearing instead of her usual robes, giving a twirl to show it off. "I'll have you know this is for practicality. It's too hot and humid to be wearing robes in this weather."
Noctis conceded she had a point as he too was escaping the sun under an rocky alcove for his fishing spot.
"Mind if I sit here? Won't be bothering your fishing?"
"As long as you don't jump into the water." Noctis reeled in a unnecessary catch before throwing it back into the ocean.
Ula sat down a respectable distance from Noctis aware he would need some space for his fishing but still within earshot. "How were yesterday's tasks by the way?"
Noctis recounted their tasks of finding their first ingredients. Fighting an thankfully-not-mountain-sized adamantoise for an egg and braving the cold desert night for sandworm meat. Nothing too difficult but not as simple as Noctis made it out to be. Before getting each of the ingredients they needed, they had to do more tasks to convince the former Company of Heroes they could even do it.
"Alex's at a goblin settlement, clearing it out of some monsters I guess." Noctis explained his teammate's absence.
"And you're here catching fish." Ula watched Noctis reel in another catch. "Equally splitting the workload I see."
"They were the ones who said the need the fish urgently." He held up the Ash Tuna on his line for emphasis before storing it.
"Well, they're trying to host the banquet tonight which could explain why."
"That's great." Another cast. "Sooner that banquet's done, the sooner when can deal with Titan."
Noctis was too busy with his fishing to recognize the noticeable pause in their conversation before Ula spoke again.
"You shouldn't take Titan too lightly. You may have defeated Ifrit but Titan isn't going to act the same."
"But I'm sure you'll teach us how to fight Titan. Whatever strategy you came up with should still work."
"I don't think the same can apply considering there'll only be two of you. I'll probably have to think of a new strat-" Ula suddenly cut her musings. "Who told you I came up with strategy we used?"
"No one." Noctis reeled in a bite before he continued. "It was just a guess." Which turned out to be right. "It wasn't that hard to put two and two together really."
If Noctis looked back, he would have seen how conflicted Ula looked. "But you don't know what we did exactly?" The hesitant tone though, Noctis heard clearly.
"Not really?" Noctis paused his fishing to face Ula. "Was it hard to do?"
The long pause was noticeable this time "Not the way you think."
"What do you me-"
"Sorry Noctis." Ula cut him off. "You'll have to find another spot."
"What-" was all Noctis could say before Ula ran past him and dove into the water, splashing some at him.
Ula resurfaced, cheekily smiling at the stunt she pulled. "Better get those fish back for the banquet. I'll see you later!" She waved goodbye before swimming towards the small islands off the shore of Costa del Sol.
Though puzzled by her actions, Ula was right in that he needed to head back if he wanted to deliver the ingredients on time. Whatever the reason was for Ula's strange behaviour, Noctis would probably have to find out during the banquet itself.
"So after we killed the dragon and got the cheese, we parted ways." Alex recounted the events of his day. "I tried to invite them to the banquet but they passed." He sounded disappointed at that.
"Can you even do that?" Noctis asked from behind the counter he was working on.
"Uh… I'm sure I would have found a way." said Alex. "Anyroad, you done with that?"
"Just about." Noctis answered as he placed a piece of tuna sashimi on the plate.
Satisfied with his arrangement, Noctis handed the plate to Alex who left to put the plate with the rest of the food. The redhead was roped into laying out the buffet, from the food to the flower arrangements. Meanwhile, Noctis was summoned back to the kitchen preparing the rest of the fish he caught. In truth,his catch had been meant to be grilled into skewers but due to Noctis's... enthusiastic fishing, they had more fish they could cook in time. Instead, Noctis offered to turn them into sashimi, having worked part-time at a sushi restaurant in his high school days. Surprisingly the chef knew what sashimi was but was skeptical that Noctis could prepare the 'far-eastern dish', though Noctis had no idea what he meant by that. After Noctis skillfully cut, deboned and prepared the first dish, the chef no longer questioned his claim and sent him to work immediately.
Once the last tuna was prepared, Noctis was finally allowed to leave the kitchen without being shouted at it to return and told to wait at the banquet area for any instructions. Despite the supposed importance of the guest this banquet was for, the actual celebration area was just one of the open cabanas near the entrance to the beach called The Flying Shark with an appropriate giant shark-in-a-barrel model just above the sign. The circular counters surrounding the wooden pillar in the middle contained the various food and flowers arrangement Alex had worked hard to lay out properly.
While Noctis was trying to identify which food contained the ingredients he and Alex had worked for, said teammate arrived with an exasperated Y'shtola in tow.
"It seems we are finally finished with this ignominy." Y'shtola concluded since Noctis and Alex were finally at the banquet area.
"I think that's exaggerating it a bit." Alex countered to which Noctis agreed.
Their tasks may have been menial but nothing too terrible, considering Noctis once waded through a sewer system for a bunch of headlights.
"Diverting our attention to supply victuals for a banquet, while the shadow of Titan looms over us all… It beggars belief!" Y'shtola continued to rant. "Even the guests of honor would understand if their banquet was postponed!"
"But we wouldn't have a reason to drag our guests from their hideyholes." Ula, dressed in her normal robes now, walked up the wooden ramp followed by the last people the Scions expected to see.
"Minfilia! L'una!" Alex demonstrated his talent of observation as the two smiled and waved at them. "What're you doing here?"
Ula sported a cheshire grin. "Alex! That's no way to greet our honored guests."
A weary sigh escaped Y'shtola while Alex and Noctis stared in blank confusion. Before anyone could ask or explain anything, the pounding of feet on the wooden platform was their only warning before a lalafell jumped towards the gathering of Scions, landing skillfully on his knees in front of them.
"Lady Minfilia! Lady L'una!" The lalafell bowed his head at the two women. "A thousand pardons for this extreme discourtesy! I was wholly unaware of our guests true identity! Had I known, I would never have permitted my man to subject them to such unspeakable ordeals!" the lalafell lowered his head even further almost touching the wooden walkway.
"Master Gegeruju!" Minfilia waved her hands. "There is no need to go to such extremes."
"I am confused myself at what is going on." Luna addressed the rest of the Scions while their Antecedent continued to console the apologetic owner of Costa del Sol.
Everyone else directed their gaze to Ula, all in agreement the smiling miqo'te knew exactly what was happening. "Noctis and Alex maaayyy have been roped into setting up for the banquet." Ula explained.
"It was the only way we could get the information about Titan from her captain." Noctis elaborated. He turned to Luna. "It's nice to see you too, but what are you doing here?"
"We have received the invitation to today's celebration for weeks now." Luna motioned to Minfilia and Gegeruju. "Minfilia and I once assisted Master Gegeruju with a matter involving sahagin when he started constructing this settlement. He has been a keen supporter of our organization ever since." she explained.
Part of that support did consist of monetary aid but Luna explained Gegeruju liked to flatter them by annually throwing them a party in their honor. The lalafell was also very keen in inviting the Scions to his resort, generously offering free stay and use of the beach. An offer they admittedly haven't utilized so much.
"It would seem the rest of the 'guests' have arrived." Y'shtola cut in, indicating to Wheiskaet leading a group of people to the banquet area. The white-haired miqo'te turned to Alex and Noctis. "While Minfilia and Luna are clearly guests, I need not remind you were are here on an official capacity. If it is required you work, see through it's end. I pray this be the last of their tests."
Despite her warnings, Noctis and Alex weren't called upon by and were allowed to stand with their fellow Scions with Noctis fervently taking a spot beside Luna. The former-Oracle was about to ask a question but stopped when someone walked in front of the gathered attendees.
It wouldn't be a banquet without a speech and as the owner of the resort, Gegeruju started by thanking the Scions.
"... and I hope the Scions and Costa del Sol continue to have a favorable relationship. Maybe you would like to enjoy the beach? We have plenty of beachwear for you to rent and in some lovable designs-"
"Ahem." the female lalafell beside Gegeruju cleared her throat.
"Er… yes. May we continue to work together." A polite amount of applause followed as the lalafell rejoined the crowd.
The attention shifted to the Company of Heroes as everyone expected the next speech to come from them. Behind Wheiskaet, the rest of the members stood behind him. Noctis recognized some of them from the tasks he and Alex carried out. For those he did not recognized, Alex helpfully mentioned they were part of the task he had done earlier that day, while Noctis was still sleeping he added. Included in the line-up was Ula, dressed in her usual robes this time and sporting a serious expression for once.
"We six were chosen by our brothers and sisters," Wheiskaet spoke for the group as befitting the leader. "And before the Company of Heroes disbanded, we each swore a solemn oath...
That any who would follow in our footsteps must be weighed and measured─not by their reputation, but by their deeds."
"Each man would judge these would-be god-slayers by his own criteria." Wheiskaet referred his gathered allies, all of them nodding in agreement in their own unique way. "If even one found them wanting, they would be rejected without a second thought."
Noctis privately speculated what would have happened to him if he had failed his own trial by astrals. Death most likely. A pre-trial test might have been a good idea.
"Titan is not one to be challenged lightly, and we will not be complicit in the deaths of the unworthy." behind the roegadyn captain, the rest of the members sagely nodded in agreement.
"How then did our members fair, Captain?" Minfilia asked, appropriately representing the Scions' side. "More than enough to meet all your requirements I'm sure."
"Well and beyond, my Lady. My colleagues find neither of them lacking and judge them worthy challengers." Wheiskaet raised a fist. "Alex, Noctis." Everyone's attention focused on the two as they were called out. "Cast down the Lord of Crags and write a new chapter in the history of Eorzea. The birth of a new legend, Titan's Banes!"
The Company of Heroes cheered at the acclamation while the rest of the audience politely clapped. Alex rubbed the back of his head in abashment. On the other hand, Noctis regally nodded, willingly taking in the expectations now entrusted on them.
Once the clamour died down.
"With the formalities out of the way, summon the dancers, pour the wine, let the festivities begin! Eat, drink, and be merry, my friends!"
"By the festivities, you would not be faulted for believing Titan has been slain already." commented Y'shtola from her bench.
"C'mon Y'shtola! Have some fun!" Ula literally pressured her by wrapping an arm around her. "Think of it this way: we've completed the many tests already-"
"Time well spent I'm sure."
"- and these two -" Ula motioned with her cup holding hand to Noctis and Alex. "will be coming back here for an even bigger celebration."
"I fail to see how that makes it any better." retorted Y'shtola.
"At the very least, everyone is confident Noctis and Alex will have no difficulties facing this primal." Luna diplomatically interjected from the same bench. On her lap was a plate of the tuna sashimi which she managed to eat elegantly despite not using any utensils.
"We planned this intensively so it should have covered everything we know. Unless you're extremely unlucky… but I doubt it's anything they can't handle. Reacting to surprises was my test after all." boasted Ula.
Obviously, each task they had to perform tested some factor other than being strong enough to kill said monster. Bravery, skill, altruism, even the charisma to inspire others, each member stated the trait they sought for the next person to face down Titan.
"And here i thought you were just curious." Noctis recalled the whole spiel Ula gave.
"I was, but I had a feeling you might eventually end up fighting Titan so I decided to kill two birds with one stone." She explained. "Much like this party."
"At least we get something for all that hard work." Alex nudged Noctis with his elbow.
"Honestly, the original plan was to hold a banquet in honor of whoever was successful anyway." Ula sheepishly admitted. "But they really had a banquet they needed to prepare so we just use it instead. Thankfully it was for the Scions so having you two help out still counts."
The three Scions who traveled with Ula from Limsa returned her cheeky smile with blank looks. Luna continued eating her tuna having managed to refill her plate at some point.
"We even gave some leeway letting the ones Alex did by himself count!"
"I dunno… the way they told me to do stuff sounded more like they really needed the ingredients more than actual trials." remarked Alex. "How about yours Noctis?"
"Fishing."
Everyone looked at the dish in Luna's hands before turning back to Ula, expecting an answer.
"Patience? Proficiency?" No one bought it. "Okay fine, maybe that wasn't a test."
"For what it's worth." Luna rose to the her friend's defense. "This is my favorite fare from this feast. I did not expect to take to it so much." she admitted as she ate another piece.
Curious, Y'shtola took a piece of her own. "Hmmm…" the white-haired maiden tasted the tuna. "Job well done Noctis."
"I do my best." Noctis tried to play it of nonchalantly but inwardly, he was quite pleased with himself.
It was a rare occurrence his own cooking skills were appreciated, even if it was just cutting sashimi properly. You don't hang around iron-chef Iggy without learning a thing or two, especially when he wakes you up early in the morning specifically to teach you. You also don't hang around iron-chef Iggy if you want everyone to complain the food you did make was worse than usual.
"But as obviously pleased as Noctis is," Y'shtola ignored his indignant denial. "We did not come here to participate in the logistics of this banquet. The hour has come for the Captain make good on his promise. Speak of the devil..."
The rest of the scions followed Y'shtola's gaze and saw the approach of Wheiskaet accompanied by Minfilia.
"If what they have recounted is true, both of you performed admirably." the antecedent congratulated Alex and Noctis. "I cannot help but be swept by the festivities and offer my own congratulations."
"Yet as much as we have indulged them, Antecedent" Y'shtola called attention to her once more. "But now is scarcely the time for celebration. The battle with Titan has yet to begin. I trust you will make good on your promise Captain?"
"Aye as promised, we will show you the way." confirmed Wheiskaet. "In addition, Ula here will teach you all we know on how to fight Titan. She has a better head for strategies than the rest of the company combined."
"There is no time to waste then. With your duties done, I believe all three of you are free to strategize."
Ula looked about to object but the pointed look Y'shtola gave her made her instantly backpedal.
Silently defeated, Ula let out a groan. "Guess party time's over." the arcanist stretched out as she stood up from the bench. "Let's go to a more private place then." she beckoned the two primal slayers to follow her.
On the other hand, Noctis and Alex had no problems leaving the party early. Though they were worried that they would not be back in time before Minfilia and Luna left but the antecedent eased their worries as she mentioned their departure would not be until tomorrow morning. It would not leave a favorable impression to not enjoy their host's hospitality. With their concerns moot and point, the three then excused themselves from the group as Ula lead them away from the party venue.
"I think our tent is private enough." suggested Alex. "Even has a table we can use."
Surprisingly, the arcanist shook her head. "Nope. We're not going to sit down and discuss things all theoretical like. You're gonna learn these strategies by doing it. Now I believe there's an island big enough to practice over there."
"To the boats then?"
"Wrong again Alex! We're swimming there!"
Minfilia watched the party leave until she could no longer hear their conversation. It was then she remembered their own lack of training area. "Oh dear, I hope they don't cause too much trouble. I'd rather not cause any problems for Lord Gegeruju."
"Ula will take care of it." assured Wheiskaet.
Minfilia refrained from commenting leaving only the sounds of Luna enthusiastically eating her tuna to fill the lull in conversation.
"Just in case, I'll go remind her." the captain hastily followed after them.
A/N: Took a while but finally finished the whole chapter. We take a look into various other characters and how they all interact with each other. It was especially fun being able to change a few details of the canon storyline to bring in familiar faces.
Up next is Titan itself. Hope your excited to see what happens next.
Sitting on her bed, Luna was leisurely undoing her intricate hair braid when someone entered her tent and unceremoniously plopped themselves face first on the vacant bed beside her.
"Finished with your training?" Luna asked.
The first reply was a muffled gibberish before Ula turned over. "Yeah, and finally. Went on longer than I thought it would."
"Difficulties in learning your techniques?"
"Nah, they got those down fast." Ula waved of Luna's assumption. "But those strategies were based only on what I knew about them. Once they had the general idea what to look out for, they started thinking of their own methods."
With the last of her braid undone, Luna shook her head to free the rest of her hair. She stood up from her bed as she searched for a comb she could use while still listening to her friend.
"That does not sound too exhausting."
"It is when they have a lot of ideas and ask you to help them test all of them!" Ula ranted on having to keep up two different kinds of carbuncles to mimic all the skills and attributes of Titan. "Maybe I should find a way to summon a carbuncle that's more Titan-like in the future if I have to keep on doing this. Or finally take up Mhitra's offer."
"She has been contacting us more since word of primal activity has increased." commented Luna. "There was mention of a success in her last letters but nothing new since then."
"Guess I really should." Ula let out a groan as she got up to sit on her bed. "I'm really jealous how much energy to spare those two have. At least when Noctis manages to stay awake." She added. "You're going to have some rough nights L'una."
When Luna tilted her head in confusion, Ula broke out in laughter until it suddenly devolved to a painful coughing fit. Seeing her in pain, Luna immediately moved to the troubled arcanist, the healer's hands already glowing the calming green of a healing spell. Ula leaned away from healing magic, even extending an arm as if shooing away the need for such a thing. Doing the next best thing, Luna searched for a glass of water Ula could use once the coughing calmed down.
"How was it this time?" Luna asked as Ula finished her glass.
"It's not so bad." Ula reluctantly answered. "I just wasn't expecting it."
"You should not be exhausting yourself anymore." worried Luna.
"And stay helplessly indoors like a handicapped person? I'm not going to spend my last days in some infirmary, staring at the walls until the gods come for me." Ula retorted her ears and tail standing upright.
It was an old argument and one they had settled long ago. However it came with a caveat and those conditions had been fulfilled already.
"You should tell her." Luna softly spoke once her friend had calmed down.
Ula grew quiet, her appendages drooping as she simply stared at the empty cup in her hands.
"I- I can't." Ula placed the empty glass on the bedside table. "I want to, and I know I need to... but I don't know how to make myself remember." Ula gloomily replied.
"I know." Luna soothed her friend and cupped her hands in comfort. "But maybe it is not solely up to you."
"What do you mean?"
"She means it is time for us to turn to the Echo." the two miqo'tes turn their head to the new voice.
Minfilia strode over from the entrance and joined them near Ula's bed.
"How was your conference with Master Gegeruju?" Luna politely asked.
"We will continued to have a mutually beneficial relationship with Costa del Sol." Minfilia answered with a smile. "But we can discuss that once when we return. This matter," she turned to Ula. "Requires our attention."
"It's not so important." Ula remarked.
"Nonsense." rebutted Minfilia. "Part of the agreement when one joins the Scions is that we would use our available resources to help our members. Especially if we are the only ones capable of undoing this memory tamper."
"Can we? 'Cause based on how the Archons describe this Louisoix, his spells are leagues above our own."
Minfilia smile shrank a bit at the mention of her predecessor but did let it stop her from explaining her plan.
"As you know, one of the capabilities of the Echo is to hear resonations of another's past." Ula nodded, aware of this fact for a while now. "More skilled holders can 'manipulate' said resonations."
"Scary thought." commented Ula. "But mine's already been manipulated. Unless-" she put a hand to her chin. "You mean to make an Echo holder find this manipulation and even possibly remove it entirely."
"Exactly." confirmed Minfilia.
"That means you can do it!" Ula realized. "Then let's try it now." she eagerly prepared herself.
Sadly, Minfilia shook her head to Ula's disappointment. "While I theoretically could, when a vision occurs is still a random affair. Willing a resonation is still beyond any known Echo wielder's capabilities. I theorize it could be the Mothercrystal herself who controls when it happens but sometimes great stress could trigger it as well-"
Luna managed to politely cough, interrupting the antecedent's discourse.
"But that is a matter for another day." Minfilia sensed the upcoming question and continued. "Thus I believe we could increase our chances if someone related to the manipulation were the one to try and attempt it."
Ula's eyes widened it realization. "You mean-"
"Yes." Minfilia immediately answered. "Which is why I requested L'una to ask you to come back with us."
"I had not gotten around to it yet." admitted Luna.
"Which is why I ask you to come back with us. You've done your part guiding Y'shtola, Alex and Noctis and they shouldn't need help anymore for their next task, correct?"
Ula shook her head. "No. The next person should be able to tell them how to get to Titan." Part of their pact meant she shouldn't know how to either or that would defeat the purpose of the tests.
"Come with us." advised Luna. "You are not the only one who wishes to reconcile your memories."
The tent was silent until Ula finally answered.
"Fine. I'll do it."
"Wonderful." cheered Minfilia. "In truth I'm quite excited to test if hypothesis are true. It could lead us closer to understanding the intricacies of the Echoes. Oh! I should inform Una as well to make sure she doesn't leave Vesper Bay." Minfilia excused herself as she stepped out of the tent.
"At least one of us is excited about it." sighed Ula.