Eyes Ever Heavensward

by RoseDragonWitch

Major Game Spoilers! Five years ago, Louisoix Leveilleur sacrificed his life for the realm of Eoreza and now his grandchildren seek to continue his legacy. Through betrayal, Alphinaud Leveilleur is forced to flee to the snowy mountains of Ishgard with the Warrior of Light. Meanwhile his guilt over what happened continues to eat away at him…

10. Mountaintop Diplomacy

Chapter 9: Mountaintop Diplomacy

They spent a good deal of the night gazing up at the heavens before Alphinaud finally received a message from the Adder's Nest, informing him that the Elder Seedseer has granted them an audience. While he was glad that they were getting somewhere, he could not help but wish that he could have spent a little more time outside listening to Claire's lesson on the stars. But after he told her that they had to continue their way to Gridania, they wordlessly got to their feet and continued along the road that would take them there.

He would occasionally gaze over at her as they continued towards the city. Her expression was calm like it always had been, like a mountain up against a storm—as unmoving and strong as ever. From the way that she looked, you wouldn't guess the kind of talk they had before. Then again, she was never someone who was easy to read.

Meanwhile his own feelings were tumbling around inside him with great unrest. And for the life of him, he could not understand what it all meant no matter how hard he tried. He couldn't help but feel foolish for not being able to state what was wrong with him. He shut his eyes for a moment and tried to force himself to listen to the turmoil. But at that moment Claire pointed out that they had reached the gate to Old Gridania and so he was left with no choice but to focus on what was happening now rather than these melancholy emotions for the moment.

They ventured passed the gate guards, who paid them no real attention for though the sky was steadily growing lighter, it was still dark enough that they were confident that no one would be able to recognize them if they kept their heads down. They ventured into Old Gridania, and he was focused on what he should tell the Elder Seedseer. He was sure that if there was anyone who would be able to help them contact the moogles in the Churning Mists, it would be the Twelveswood moogles.

They quietly slipped to the Stillgland Fane, where there was a conjuror waiting for them, ready to take them to Kan-E-Senna. They were allowed inside, and he smiled when they stepped into the tranquil atmosphere of the Lotus Stand and the many fireflies that twinkled in the air, with the sounds of gentle water flowing beneath them. Meanwhile, standing there waiting for them was the Elder Seedseer and her guard. She beamed warmly at the sight of them as they approached.

"I bid you welcome, friends," she told them, "The Admiral spoke of having met with you, but 'tis no less of a relief to see you safe and hale with mine own eyes."

He only realized now just how good it felt to see her again after all this time as well.

"We humbly thank you for agreeing to receive us upon such short notice, my lady ─ and for all you have done for us in our absence," he told her sincerely, but the smile faded a little. He hated that they had to come here to ask them for a favor after all that they had been doing for them while they were away, yet it couldn't be helped. So, he then humbly asked, "Would that it were solely to express our gratitude that we came to you this day... Alas, the tides of battle yet dictate our comings and goings. Elder Seedseer ─ we would beg your wisdom in a matter that may finally bring an end to the Dragonsong War."

Surprised astonishment appeared on her face, as well that of her guard, at this declaration. She asked them to continue to explain; and so he told her everything that they had been doing while they were away. After they sought asylum within Ishgard and helped to rescue Raubahn from his wrongful imprisonment, they had received distressing news of an impending attack on Ishgard by Nidhogg's vengeful army. According to the Ishgardians, they feared this attack to be so powerful that the very survival of Ishgard may not guaranteed. Even should the city survive, the causalities will be beyond counting.

While their friends asked that they seek sanctuary elsewhere, they could not ignore Ishgard in its time of need. Yet how were they to do that? Even with the knights and Dragoons of Ishgard fighting with them, how could they fend off an entire army of dragons? That was when they decided to try and prevent a battle breaking out in the first place. They were willing to try and come up with some sort of understanding with the dragons, to parley a peace and spare both sides unnecessary bloodshed.

Together with the Azure Dragoon they managed to track down Iceheart in the Western Highlands so that they could gain an audience with Nidhogg's own brood brother Hraesvelgr and ask for his help to end this war once and for all.

Kan-E-Senna listened with continued amazement as he explained a little more of their venture, having made it all the way to the Churning Mists, where Hraesvelgr's domain doth lay. Though they had made it that far, once they saw how large the Churning Mists were, they realized that it could take days to find him on their own. Because of that, they fear that they will run out of time and Nidhogg will launch his attack before they would find the Wyrm-King.

That was when he explained that they had spotted, of all things, a moogle not long after they arrived. And they reasoned that if there was one, then there would doubtless be more around. Alphinaud told her that he was sure that if they could request these moogles for their help, then they should be able to find a way to speak with Hraesvelgr. That is… if they could find them. They spent a lot of time and energy looking around for that moogle, yet it had simply disappeared… and thus, they have come here, seeking help.

Kan-E-Senna listened intently to his story without interrupting once, and when he had finished, she had a curious expression on her face at the idea of moogles in the sky.

"…I see," she said at last. "So you seek a means to contact these moogles of the Churning Mists..."

Alphinaud nodded, just about to ask her if it was possible for her to summon a few moogles here right now so that they could explain the situation to them as well. If they could not come with them, then they would at least like advice on the best way to approach this problem. But before he could do so, he heard an excited squeak calling overhead.

"Kupopopo! I say, kupo!"

They all looked up at once to see, to their luck, that a moogle just happened to be soaring towards them. And he couldn't have been more thrilled to see it.

As the little creature fluttered down towards them, Kan-E-Senna looked up at him and said politely, "Greetings, Kuplo Kopp. To what do we owe the pleasure of your company?"

The moogle stopped and hovered in mid-air as he answered, "I was struck by the sudden urge to bring you some fruit, Kan-E ─ and I'm jolly glad I did!" He looked to Alphinaud and asked, bouncing about in eagerness, "Tell me more about these moogles in the sky, kupo!"

"I will gladly tell you all I know ─ though it amounts to precious little," he answered honestly, glad of this little act of fate that Kuplo Kopp arrived when he did. "We encountered a moogle high in the clouds of Dravania, and had hoped that you and your kin in the Twelveswood might agree to facilitate a meeting."

Kan-E-Senna looked back to Kuplo Kopp and asked, "Pray correct me if I am mistaken, Kuplo, but there are legends, are there not, which speak of moogles who dwelled beyond the clouds?"

"Indeed there are, kupo!" Kuplo Kopp answered happily before he began to tell them the story, "Long, long ago, back when the world was still young, they say my ancestors served the gods up in the heavens. Of course, that was before their masters took to bickering like spoiled children..."

"Ah, yes, the tale of Good King Moggle Mog XII," Kan-E-Senna said when Kuplo Kopp stopped speaking for a moment. "He is revered for holding fast to a rope of miraculous length, that his subjects might climb down from the sky and escape to the world below."

Alphinaud thought the legend over, sure that everyone here was thinking of when the Moogleguard summoned King Mog before.

"Hmm... Ignoring the more fanciful aspects of the tale, it may well be that Kuplo's ancestors hailed from the Churning Mists," he spoke up, and now that he thought it through, he realized that it did make a lot of sense. If he had to guess, centuries ago, the ancestors of the Twelveswood moogles must have left the Churning Mists for whatever reason—perhaps around the time of the beginning of the Dragonsong War. "Given how long his kin have resided in the Twelveswood, it is perfectly possible that the details of their history have faded into myth..."

"Indeed, Master Alphinaud. Such stories oft contain a measure of truth. 'Tis like that the moogles of the Churning Mists tell similar tales of the world below..." Kan-E-Senna stated as she thought it over as well, "I can well imagine why the one you encountered fled at your approach."

He could understand that. After all, if those moogles have yet to ever leave the Churning Mists, and since men have not set foot there for a thousand years, they would be frightened at the idea of seeing people for the first time.

"Oh, fleeing's second nature to us!" Kuplo Kopp squeaked out proudly, "We often hide when the larger races come tramping through the forest. Of course, where there's one moogle, there's bound to be more…"

And that was what he was hoping for. Alphinaud looked at Kuplo Kopp, wondering if he would be willing to help them in this matter. He was sure that if he chose to come with them, then the moogles in the sky would surely want to speak with him. He watched their little friend flutter there for a moment, and Alphinaud could almost see the clashing emotions inside him. The curiosity of meeting his distant cousins in the sky… battling against the fear of leaving the Twelveswood for the first time.

Alphinaud found it strange that he could tell the emotions of another so much clearer than he could with his own…

But he did not say anything, willing to give Kuplo Kopp time to figure it out himself. This was a big decision after all and he had to be the one to make it. But in the end, and to his greatest relief, the little moogle said determinedly, "...Which is why I've decided to take a trip to the clouds, kupo! They surely won't be afraid to talk to me!"

Alphinaud smiled at him, grateful that he had decided to come with them.

"I was hoping you might say that, Master Kuplo. You will accompany us, then?" Alphinaud asked excitedly, silently hoping that they could leave right away.

"Just you try and stop me, kupo!" Kuplo Kopp said firmly as he bounced around, "I'll admit, the thought of venturing outside the Twelveswood is a bit unsettling, but I can hardly refuse a chance to meet my distant distant cousins!"

That was when they received a rather unexpected request.

"If you will have me, I too will accompany you on this venture, and lend my voice to your cause as an ambassador of Gridania," Kan-E-Senna offered seriously. Alphinaud turned to stare at her as each member of her guard were looking horrified that she would even suggest such a thing.

"M-My lady, I ─ Are you quite certain?" Alphinaud stuttered, wondering if this was truly a wise choice. While he was sure that she may also be able to help them, he was mostly concerned for her safety in the matter. The last thing that he wanted was for her to get hurt by venturing into dangerous territory. But when he saw the spark in her eyes, the fire burning there, any words he had to try and refuse her offer died in his throat.

There was no hesitation, no fear, and no way that she was going to be talked out of helping.

"How oft has our nation turned to the Scions of the Seventh Dawn in its hour of need?" she asked seriously as she glanced at Claire as she spoke. As usual, Claire did not say anything as she watched Kan-E-Senna talk. Perhaps he was just seeing things, but as the two looked each other in the eye, there seemed to be some kind of silent understanding passing between the two. "How oft have we asked the Warrior of Light to risk her life to save our own? Full many times, I say to you ─ and never have they refused us. Thus do I choose this day to offer mine aid to our allies for the good of the realm."

Those words seem to resonate within his soul as understanding washed over him like waves. Though instead of dragging him down, they seemed to help to raise him up… for he understood completely. He knew those feelings all too well and he could see now why she was so determined to help them in any way she could.

However, not everyone seemed to agree with her…

Standing behind her, her guard and the Conjurors all seemed to be very unhappy, some shaking their heads and others were looking like they could not believe that they were even having this discussion. Kan-E-Senna seemed to sense this as well for she narrowed her eyes just a little before she glanced back at them and asked, "...Is this not just?"

When they realized that she was speaking directly to them, they all froze, like they couldn't believe that they were disagreeing with her in the first place, and bowed back. But Alphinaud continued to smile as he told her sincerely, "A most unexpected ─ and most welcome ─ offer, Elder Seedseer. We would be honored by your presence."

And so it was all decided. Kuplo Kopp was already making plans on how many Kupo Nuts he should take with him as the Elder Seedseer's guard were preparing themselves for the worst possible situation. As they talked, Alphinaud took Claire aside and informed her that it might take a while to arrange everything.

He advised that it may be best if she return to the summit ahead of them and inform their companions of who they would be bringing with them. He would stay with them to serve as a guide back to Sohm Al. When she suggested that she could accompany them, he reassured her that he did not expect it to be a difficult road since they would have the Elder Seedseer's personal guard there with them and they had already cleared the pathway up the mountain of dragons.

Claire agreed in the end, promising to see them one more time once after she resupplied and was ready to leave. When Claire left, he went back to the others as they were continuing to discuss plans. Two of the Seedseer's guard would be accompanying them, while the rest were to remain here in Gridania to keep an eye on the people here.

"My lady…" one of the Conjuror's said worriedly. "Are you sure this is wise?"

"Yes, I am certain of it," Kan-E-Senna reassured them with a reassuring smile. "Hopefully, I will only be away for a few days at most. So while I am gone, I expect that everything will be carried about smoothly. Should anything happen, I suggest that you speak with Brother E-Sumi-Yan. He will be more than capable of answering any questions that you need answered."

The others were continuing to look upset of the idea of her leaving, yet they did not say anything as they listened to every order that she gave them, expecting them to maintain order while she was away. They were informed to tell anyone who asked that she would be leaving to help solve an important manner and that she would be gone only a short time.

As he let her handle most of the arrangements, Alphinaud could not help but think back to the first time that he first met her. Now that he thought about it… they were talking about Claire that time, weren't they?

*Flashback*

Kan-E-Senna had welcomed both him and his sister with a warm smile. It was a bright and sunny morning with a clear, blue sky and just the touch of the laziest wind drifting about them as they stepped towards the Elder Seedseer upon the wooden stepping stones. Yet before they had even stepped foot in that place, they were outside the Lotus Stand, they had found two men arguing with each other outside the Conjurer's guild.

Judging from their apparel, it looked to be one of the Wood Wailers arguing with an archer—the Bowlord that Alphinaud had heard so much about was his best guess.

"Sir, you really want to trust a matter this important to some outsider?" the Wood Wailer asked incredulously.

"This matter is not up for debate," the Bowlord answered strictly, looking angry that they were even having this argument. "We needed help and I would have thought that you would be pleased that someone answered it."

"But she's an outsider!" the Wailer repeated, almost shouting at him.

Alphinaud was about to step in and ask what this was about, but someone had beat him to it.

"What is happening here?" asked a warm voice that seemed to ring with wisdom. And that alone was enough to put an end to the fighting for the two looked up at once. Both he and Alisaie looked as well to see a pretty Padjal stepping towards them from a pathway that was set up next to the Conjurer's entrance. She was dressed in a long, white dress with a fur collar, and like all Padjal, she had thin horns on either side of her head, which were shown off by the leaf-shaped headgear in such a way, that it looked like an elegant tiara.

Following behind her were three guards which were dressed in the whitest of armor. Obviously they heard the fighting and had come here to see who was causing it. And there was very little doubt in his mind who she was… the Elder Seedseer herself, Kan-E-Senna.

This was proven when the two men caught sight of her before they jumped up to attention and bowed low.

"My lady!" they both recited at once as she stepped towards them, her face showing no signs of unease in her face, merely holding to a calm and composed demeanor that befitted her role as leader.

"So that's the Elder Seedseer," Alphinaud whispered to his twin as he watched.

"The people of Gridania speak highly of her," Alisaie added with a nod. "And Grandfather's journal mentions how she is compassionate towards all, even to her enemies."

They watched until she raised her head and spotted him and his sister there as well. She then smiled warmly at the pair of them, bidding them to come forth so that they could be properly introduced. They did so, and once they were in front of her, they also bowed respectfully as she kindly welcomed them to Gridania, stating that she had been looking forward to their meeting. She was about to invite them to the Lotus Stand when she suddenly turned back to the two men and asked in concern, "What seems to be the problem?"

The Bowlord sprang into an immediate salute as he answered firmly, "My lady, I finally found a soul brave enough to enter the Tara Deepcroft to investigate it."

"The Deepcroft?" Alphinaud repeated, not understanding what they were talking about.

"Beneath the Central Shroud," Kan-E-Senna explained for him and Alisaie, "There is an ancient underground burial site. This is the Tam-Tara Deepcroft. It once was part of a settlement of the Gelmorran. But for generations, we have used it to bury our dead there. Lately, however, there have been reports of problems of the most heinous kind."

"What sort of problems?" he could not help but ask. He did not like the way she used the word 'heinous'… like whatever was going on in that place was not normal.

This time it was the Bowlord who answered him, "As of late, we have had reports of shadowy figures skulking about those halls. Based on the multiple accounts of eye witnesses, we suspect that these people may be part of the Lambs of Dalamud. It is a doomsday cult which sprung up five years ago before the Calamity."

"These individuals, I fear, worship the red moon Dalamud," Kan-E-Senna added grimly, her kind face melting into one of worry for just a brief moment before her calm expression reappeared.

"Worship?" Alisaie could not help but ask skeptically. "Correct me if I'm wrong, but wasn't it actually an ancient satellite that almost ended up destroying Eoreza? I mean, it wasn't even a moon! It was a machine that held a primal inside. Why would anyone in their right mind worship it?"

"That is a question that I think we are better off not knowing," the Bowlord stated darkly, and Alphinaud had to privately agree with that suggestion. "But to make a long story short, they believed that Dalamud would deliver them from the devastation that enveloped the land."

At the reminder of the Calamity, Kan-E-Senna's features turned deeply sad, her eyes which had been as bright as a summer morning, were suddenly cold as the first snowfall in winter.

"So you can imagine just how disappointed they were when Dalamud exploded and broke apart before it hit the ground," the Bowlord added bitterly. "One would think that they would question their faith, yet it just seem to set it aflame."

"I don't believe it," Alisaie said, shaking her head before Alphinaud heard her mutter under her breath, "Save them? How was it going to save them?"

"Anyway, they truly believe that it was man who interfered with the coming of their lord's moment to save them all, but now it is their duty to avenge him," the Bowlord finished up. "I do not know what it is they plan to do in the Deepcroft, but there is no doubt to my mind that it will not end well. That is why we needed someone to handle it. And I am glad to say that there was a volunteer."

"But Sir…" the Wailer said quickly, a part of him looking ready to continue the argument from before.

"Listen! I don't care if she is an adventurer and an outsider," the Bowlord answered back coldly, reprimanding him like how a father would to a misbehaving child. "She was the only one brave enough to step up to it."

"But what makes you sure that we can trust her?" the Wailer demanded.

"Would you rather have gone down there in her stead?" he retorted. For a moment it looked like he had won for it was clear to the Wailer that just the thought of going to such a dangerous place seemed to cause him to freeze up with fear.

"As you can see, my Lady," the Bowlord added as he turned back to the Elder Seedseer. "Normally I would dispatch my best men to scour that place, but with our ranks decimated from the Calamity, and the Ixal at our borders, I don't have any men to spare. So I had no choice but to reach out to Mother Miounne and hope she could find help. And this adventurer stepped up to offer her services. Unfortunately…" he finished up as he glared at the Wailer, "some here don't see that as a good thing."

Kan-E-Senna did not say anything right away as she looked to them both. But when her eyes drifted to the Wailer, she answered him, "If such brave souls are willing to help us, then I do not see what the problem is."

The Wailer was looking properly abashed and lowered his head in embarrassment before Kan-E-Senna then asked, "But tell me. This adventurer you speak of. Just who is…?"

"She is the one who has been helping the people of Limsa as of late, my lady," the Bowlord answered. "She had earned quite a reputation in the short amount of time that she's been there. In fact, I recently heard that she had solved some problems concerning pirates just the other day."

Alphinaud blinked in surprise before he shared a glance with his sister, both thinking the same thing.

"Ah," Kan-E-Senna answered with a smile. "Then I think I may know who you are speaking of. She was Limsa's envoy and I met with her myself. If I was to ask for an adventurer to help, then I do not know any better. Especially, if the Admiral, herself, thought so highly of her."

"I… I'm sorry, my lady," the Wailer muttered, his face turning red like the evening sun.

But the Elder Seedseer did not look upset at him, and even gave a kind smile as she reminded him patiently, like he had merely forgotten something, "I know that you said it out of loyalty to our nation. Gridania is fortunate to have such souls as you protecting her. But don't be so quick to judge. If she wishes to help, then we would truly be foolish to disregard it simply for the fact that she was born elsewhere."

"I… yes. I will be sure to remember that from now on, my lady," the Wailer mumbled and she nodded kindheartedly, allowing the men to leave without complaint.

"I apologize for that," she answered, turning back to the two of them. "I hope you don't think badly of them. They are devoted to protecting our people and our nation, and for that I count as a wonderful thing. But even the very best of us tend to get carried away from time to time. If that should happen, a friendly reminder is all that it takes."

"I understand," Alphinaud answered with a bow of his head. "And I also see that it would be hard to trust someone you do not know."

After sharing a few more words of welcome with the Elder Seedseer, he and Alisaie were allowed to enter the Conjurer's guild's library where they were able to study up on the books about the Ascians and the primals. Though, the information was very scarce and what they did find, they already suspected or knew. In fact, they were in there the rest of the day, leaving only when the sun was setting down across the sky and the first shadows were crossing the land.

They met with Kan-E-Senna once more, to inform her that their search yielded little. She did not look surprised and apologized that they could not be of more help to them.

"I truly wish that there was more that I could do to assist you, but…?" she began, but before she could finish, there was the sounds of footsteps racing towards them. They looked to the entrance of the Lotus Stand, and to their surprise, it was the Bowlord who entered—yet unlike earlier, there was a smile on his face.

He saluted at the sight of her and said, "My Lady! Forgive the interruption! Yet I could not wait to report to you concerning the Deepcroft! I am here to reassure you that there is nothing more that we need to be concerned with."

"Oh, has the matter been dealt with, already?" Kan-E-Senna asked, her face lighting up.

"Aye, my lady," the Bowlord nodded, beaming happily. "We looked into the place ourselves after the adventurer came out. It's completely empty. All the Lambs of Dalamud, as well as the foul Voidsent they summoned… all dead. We do not need to worry. The dead may now be able to rest in peace."

"Tis a great relief," she sighed with a smile, her hand over her heart and a peaceful glint in her eyes now. "Full glad I am of this. Pray tell me, where is Claire? I wish to speak with her and thank her for all her help."

"Regrettably, she left bells ago, my lady," Bowlord Lewin answered with a salute. "Apparently, and I heard this from Mother Miounne herself, there has been a message from Ul'dah. They were seeking help from a reliable adventurer in regards to a serious problem. Mistress Faye has already left Gridania."

"I see," Kan-E-Senna answered, and she sounded a little disappointed in that. "I understand. It sounds urgent, and she has proven to be nothing if not reliable. So it only makes sense that she would be in high demand."

"Well, we are to depart for Ul'dah ourselves soon, my lady," Alphinaud offered. "If we are able to speak with her there, we will inform her of your gratitude."

Kan-E-Senna looked back at him with gratitude at the offer, yet she was shaking her head. "Your words are welcomes, but that is alright," she reassured him. "We all have work that we will do. The next time that I speak with her face-to-face, I shall be sure to thank her then."

With that settled, he thanked her for her help before he and Alisaie left, heading straight to the airship landing to head to Ul'dah, where they would be speaking with General Raubahn and the Sultana.

"You know… I'm starting to think that Lady Faye really enjoys it," Alisaie commented suddenly, rubbing her tied eyes from countless books that they had poured over in the last day.

"Enjoy what?" Alphinaud asked, having to fight back a yawn himself. "The attention? The fame?"

"No," his sister answered calmly. "The danger."

*End of Flashback*

It was funny how little he knew back then.

He smiled fondly at the memories that paraded across his mind's eye as he let the Elder Seedseer continue to speak with her guard, merely informing her that he would wait for her at the airship landing.

She nodded, reassuring him that it should not take long for her to join him there. Meanwhile, he should take this time to rest or resupply as well since they were leaving as soon as possible. He thanked her once again for her concern as he left the Lotus Stand once more, looking forward to returning to the Churning Mists.

But to his surprise, he ended up crossing paths with Claire almost immediately… and literally. He had just turned around a sharp corner and ended up crashing right into her. Not that he noticed right away for she was as unmoving as a boulder… so much so that he was almost sent falling to the ground until a soft hand reached out and grasped his wrist just in time.

"S-Sorry!" he called, quickly regaining his footing. "I was looking the other way and… oh…"

Claire was smiling at him when he finally looked up. The first thing that he noticed was that she had changed out of the furs and leathers that she had pieced together from their times in the wilds and had changed into long, white robes. However her weapon was unique as it was of a floating star globe that have cards spinning around it—the same as the cards that he had shown her before. He remembered what she had told him about Astrologians and how they learn to channel the power of the stars through their star globe in order to heal and support their allies, or bring space-warping destruction down to earth in order to inflict ruin upon their enemies.

Though he hadn't have ever paid much attention to it, he had heard of Astrologians before back in Sharlayan. Ever has man coveted knowledge, and none more so than that of his fate. Though this gift of astrology, the people of Sharlayan saw fit to not only read the stars, but to write their movements as well. By attuning their aetherial energies to that of constellations, they learned to wield magicks with heretofore unseen properties.

The second thing that he realized was her hand still holding onto his. Her grip was so gentle that you would have a hard time ever believing that it was the same hand that had brought down gods and was the very thing that nightmares feared…

"Sorry," she said softly, and he could have sworn that he felt a slight tingle going up his arm the moment that she let go. "I was just coming to tell you that I'll be heading back."

"I see," he told her, "We will finish making the preparations and once they are complete we will take an airship to the Chocobo Forest and continue on foot the rest of the way. With the Dravanians of Aynx Trine allowing us safe passage, and the way up Sohm Al cleared we should not have too much trouble. We will meet you there, my friend."

She nodded and turned to leave before he added, "And keep the other two out of trouble."

She grinned back and called, "Assuming they haven't killed each other while we've been gone." And then she started to teleport, rising up into the air the familiar feeling of magic stirred in the air… and then she was gone.

With a slight sigh, he continued his way to Carline Canopy to await the others. To his relief it was only another bell before Kan-E-Senna had arrived and informed him that they were ready. After getting in contact with the airship landing, an airship had already prepared for them to take them out of Gridania. They were finally able to leave the city at around the crack of dawn, and soon they were in the air to cross over the North Shroud, heading towards Coerthas. Though a part of him was afraid that he was pushing their luck by thinking at how smooth their fortune had been today, he could not help but be surprised at how well things were going so far. He only hoped that the rest of the journey would go as smoothly… though he had to admit that he much rather enjoyed this ride compared to the back of a flying chocobo.

But just thinking about that terrifying ride to the Western Highlands, he was unable to stop the laughter rising up and breaking free. His companions all looked up, his laugh causing them all to stare at him with startled amazement. He soon stopped when he noticed this.

"What?" he asked, gazing back at them.

They continued to stare at him before Kan-E-Senna smiled, her eyes sparkling with joy before she informed him, "Nothing, my friend. It's just… I think that was the first time we ever heard you laugh like that."

Alphinaud folded his arms as he tilted his head as he asked, "Truly?"

He never really thought about it, but now that they mentioned it, he had to admit that they had a point. He couldn't remember the last time he had a chance to laugh like that as well.

"What was so funny?" one of the Elder Seedseer's guards asked curiously and Alphinaud shrugged, still finding it strange that was the first time he laughed in a long time…

"WOW! KUPO!" Kuplo Kopp suddenly squeaked out in amazement as he looked cautiously over the side. Alphinaud was pulled out of his thoughts at the sound of his squeak and glanced at him as he squeaked, "I'VE NEVER BEEN UP SO HIGH!"

"Careful," Alphinaud warned him, noticing how far he was leaning over the side of the airship, "We don't want you to go toppling over, right?"

Once he brought it up, Kuplo Kopp let out a shrill shriek and dove back to hide behind Kan-E-Senna. She chuckled softly as she gently rubbed Kuplo Kopp's head as she whispered soothing words of comfort to him.

"Sorry," Alphinaud muttered in slight embarrassment. "I was just worried that a sudden wind would come and sweep him away."

"Yes, you should be careful," Kan-E-Senna agreed as she turned back to Kuplo Kopp. "However, you are showing a great deal of courage coming along with us like this. It is your first time leaving our forest home, isn't that right?"

"Kupo Kupo… that's right," Kuplo Kopp said proudly, puffing its furry chest out, almost inflating with confidence.

"Well, it should take us a while to reach Tailfeather," Alphinaud stated as the two guards stepped to either side of the ship and were watching around cautiously for any signs of danger. "So we should relax until we get there."

"Agreed," Kan-E-Senna agreed as she stepped up to stand next to him as they observed the shrinking ground far beneath them. "So, to pass the time. I would be grateful to hear more of what happened to the Scions since the last time that we saw each other."

When she spoke that time, Alphinaud could almost feel the sadness radiating off her and he sighed. But he told her everything that he could. He left the feast that night after he had been told that one of his Crystal Braves requested an urgent meeting. So he had left to see what the matter was… it was once he was alone with them did he realize too late that it was a trap. Before he knew it, they had a sword to his neck and had no choice but to allow them to imprison him as they carried out their plan… to frame Claire and the other Scions of the supposed murder of the Sultana.

The Elder Seedseer was shocked, to say the least, when she was informed that Nanamo was most likely still alive and of the horrors that Raubahn had suffered through. Though they both knew that he would not stop searching for her until he found her. He also explained that not long after he was imprisoned, Marshal Tarupin was the one who found and freed him before they fled the city. Almost as soon as they escaped however, they had found Claire, who had used a secret passageway out of the palace… however it came with a cost… they had no idea where the Scions were or what happened to them.

When he mentioned the Scions, he asked her if she had heard any news about their missing friends, which she regretfully informed him she did not.

"I have asked the Elementals but they have yet to find any trace of any of them," she sighed, and Alphinaud could not hide the disappointment and worry that he was feeling at that moment.

"I am truly starting to wonder…" he muttered, a little more to himself than to her, "It's like they simply disappeared. I would have thought we would have found a trace of them by now?"

"I have asked that the search be continued while I am away," she reassured him in a bracing way, which helped to steady his nerves, though he still felt sick to his stomach at the thought of going so long without any real news. "I am hopeful that it will only be a matter of time before we are able to find something."

Though he was starting to feel like that was never going to happen, he forced himself to nod as he looked back to the vast sky, the warm colors of the dawn dying it with multiple shades of gold and red. The shadows of the trees stretching long below them as they continued northwards, knowing that it wouldn't be long until they reached the snows.

And so, he explained more bitterly about their flight from Ul'dah… having had the help of several other friends before they were able to escape to Camp Dragonhead, where Lord Haurchefant had sheltered them for moons before he was able to get them entrance to Ishgard.

"Most glad I am that you and Claire managed to escape," the Elder Seedseer said a little later on as the air was slowly starting to grow colder, and the clouds were thick with unfallen snow… they were almost to Coerthas. "We were worried that all of the Scions had gone missing that night. And tis a great relief to know that Raubahn is safe also."

"Yes," Alphinaud smiled back before voicing the words that Estinien said to him before, "We must take our victories where we can, I suppose."

"But I must admit that I was surprised to hear that you managed to gain sanctuary within the Holy See," she confessed, as she thought it over. "Especially since they have closed their gates to all others for almost two decades."

"To be honest, I am also a little surprised," he answered back, and he thought fondly of Lord Haurchefant. "But we are dear friends with a knight of Camp Dragonhead and it was he who was able to grant us the aid we needed. I do not know what we would have done without him, or our other allies. Not that we had been in the city that often since then. It just seems like it's been one bit of trouble after another. Yet, this plan to end this war is the only chance we have to end it without fighting, and I am hopeful of it."

"I see," Kan-E-Senna nodded to his words, "Though it will be far from easy, know that I will do that I can to help you."

"Your generosity know no bounds, Elder Seedseer," he told her and he was puzzled as she chuckled a little. "Is there something you find funny?"

"No," she smiled kindly, "It is just that I see that you have changed since last we met. I cannot put my finger on it, yet you do not seem to be the same young man that I knew before."

"I know," he admitted as he also turned to stand next to her as they watched the scenery change around them, and at last they spotted the snow-covered mountains in the distance. "I sense that something had changed about me as well, though I'm not completely sure I know what it is either."

She just continued to smile at him as she asked more about journey that he and Claire had taken together and what they had been up to since she had last saw them.

Alphinaud told her all that happened—and though they pretended otherwise—he suspected that Kuplo Kopp and the guards were listening in as well. But he started off by telling her of their first few weeks in Ishgard, to their accusations of consorting with heretics, to Raubahn's rescue.

Kan-E-Senna was amazed of how he explained when they managed to track down the leader of the heretics and they journeyed far with the Azure Dragoon at their side. As well as horrified to have learned of the existence of two more primals… one of which still roamed the Sea of Clouds.

"A flying whale?" she repeated with her eyes wide, and not even her guard could stop themselves from turning around with identical expressions of shock at such an idea.

Alphinaud nodded grimly and explained, "I have yet to see the creature myself, but from what Claire and Lord Haurchefant explained, that was what it was. He is called Bismarck: The Lord of the Mists and he is the primal of a beastman tribe known as the Vanu Vanu. Nor was I there when she fought against Ravana, Lord of the Hive and the god of the insect-like Gnath. But one of these primals has been dealt with so there is no need to worry, for a time anyway. Were circumstances different, dealing with Bismarck would be our top priority. This impending attack on the city must show you just how serious it is if dealing with another primal is not our greatest concern at the moment."

"It must be," she said seriously, her hands on her staff and a sad look on her face. "I wish that there was something more that I could do to help, yet as matters stand… we simply don't have any solutions to the primal threat."

You could see the weight of sadness weighing heavily on her shoulders before she confessed, "I should have remembered this the first time."

"The first time? The first time of what, my lady?" Alphinaud asked curiously and Kan-E-Senna seemed to be a little surprised that she had spoken out loud before she sighed.

"After the raid at the Waking Sands… when we were informed that the Scions were gone… I cannot tell you how frightening that thought was," she admitted quietly. She shut her eyes and added, "We all counted on the Scions help… yet it wasn't until that moment when we were told those words did I realize just how much we depended on you all."

She opened her eyes again and added, and Alphinaud could not tell if she was speaking to him or herself at that moment.

"How could I dare to have taken the work that you Scions and the Warrior of Light had done for us for granted?" she asked, a bitterness in her voice that Alphinaud realized she was directing towards her.

Alphinaud lowered his head as he felt humiliation enter his entire body once again.

"You would not be the first, my lady," he admitted ashamed. "If taking the hard work of others for granted is a crime… then we are both guilty."

He could feel those eyes on him, yet he could not bring himself to look up at her just yet.

"I think that we all have taken Claire's many victories for granted," he confessed. "And now that we almost had her taken from us for good… I think we all realize just how much we—that Eoreza—needs her. I believe… without her here… we would not last a moon."

He heard the Elder Seedseer heave another sigh as she spoke up, "Yes. However, we cannot expect the Warrior of Light to continue to fight the primals for us forever… and it saddens me greatly just how much we have come to depend on her that… that I fear, we give her little choice in the matter."

Alphinaud thought more of what Claire had said the night before, about how she no longer had a choice but to continue to fight and he sighed as he looked up at the clouds, suddenly wishing that he could see the stars again.

"We simply keep moving onwards, my Lady," he answered grimly. For in truth, he knew not what else he could say to her. "And I know that it is hard on Claire. I, too, wish to find a way to spare her anymore hardships that have been forced upon her. To that end, we must continue to search for a way to put a stop to all this fighting and that includes the primals. For now, however, we just have to press forward and do whatever we can and hope that a brighter morning will be waiting for us at the end of this journey."

At last, he turned to look at her, and he saw her nodding grimly before the two of them gazed on at the passing sky in silence for a time… even as the snow began to fall around them.

In fact, they had gone so long without speaking, having passed over the first few mountains of ice and properly into Coerthas, that the next time that Kan-E-Senna spoke, he suspected that she was merely trying to make small talk rather than continue to remain in silence.

"It makes me grateful for the green of the Twelveswood," she said softly as she gazed at the white below them, stretching as far as the eye could see. "Tis like someone had draped a white blanket over the land. The voice of nature is so weak… yet not dead."

"Yes, I fear that the Calamity had hit here hard," Alphinaud informed her, and he spotted the Sleeping Dragon in the distance, knowing that it wasn't far passed that they were to arrive in the Forelands and to Tailfeather. "The weather had changed almost overnight. Now this land has been plunged into a never-ending winter. I don't suppose it would be possible to do something about it? After all, Coerthas wasn't always frozen like this. So…?"

"No, it wasn't," Kan-E-Senna agreed. "Very rarely did I venture into these lands either before or after the Calamity, however, I can remember the beautiful, green fields and the flowers that once bloomed here. It saddens me greatly that it all lies buried under ice."

"The people of Ishgard had been through hard times, yet they continue on because they have to," Alphinaud informed her. "Their coldness… how indifferent they are to the plights of others… I believe that is the only way they know to protect themselves…"

"Another reason I wished to come with you," she informed him softly. "I wish to do something for Ishgard. For so long now we have cursed them for ignoring our own plights… but now I see rather hypocritical that is of me… for we have been ignoring their own suffering for a long time now. I understand now why they act the way they do. War is all that they know."

Alphinaud gazed at her before he remembered what she said before… how he had changed since she last spoke with him. Though now that that she said it… he realized that she had changed as well. He could not help but think about how all three of Eoreza's Alliance leaders had changed as well. He could still remember the Remembrance Ceremonies where he listened to their words… pretty words… yet there had been something hallow about them as well…

*Memory*

The day of the remembrance services had arrived—and now it was the evening where Gridania's Grand Company, the Order of the Twin Adder, will hold the first of the three services. It was the Elder Seedseer Kan-E-Senna who will deliver her address at Mih Khetto's Amphitheatre. The next evening will be Ul'dah's, when Flame General Raubahn Aldynn will be addressing the masses at the Royal Promenade. The night after, they were to head over to Limsa Lominsa's Stateroom, where Maelstrom Chief Admiral Merlwyb Bloefhiswyn will be giving her address.

Alphinaud and Alisaie made their way to the Mih Khetto's Amphitheatre, the two of them almost late. It was already full of people, so many that it looked like all of Gridania had come to hear the Elder Seedseer speak. Speaking of which, she was already on the stage, with her younger brother A-Ruhn, and sister named Raya-O. Alongside them was the Conjuror known as Brother E-Sumi-Yan—all four of them standing upon the stage as the voices of the people quieted.

The two of them approached just as Kan-E-Senna stepped forward, gazing around at every single person as if she couldn't be happier to see them there.

"Our forebears were once strangers in the Twelveswood," she called in a soft but graceful voice that seemed to soothe the ears of all listening in. "Fearful of the greenwrath, they hid themselves in the dark recesses of the earth. Yet they dreamed of basking dappled sunlight of the forest. Through great effort, they proved their worth to the elementals, and were granted a place beneath the boughs. So it was that Gridania was born, some fives centuries ago. Working hand in hand, the Hyur and the Elezen settlers sowed the seeds of our civilization. And soon they were joined by folk of all races. So nourished by the waters of unity and blessed by the light of the Matron, Gridania flourished into the great nation it is today."

Alphinaud continued to approach the stage with his sister as they listened in carefully to what she was saying. However, his eyes ended up spotting another person almost directly in front of them. A young Hyur woman—looking no older than nineteen or twenty years old—with dark pink hair swaying a little in the light wind. He recognized her at once as the adventurer that had helped that woman back in Ul'dah… the same woman whom the Scions had taken a great interest in lately.

Oh, that's right… he recalled Minfilia mentioning to him that the newest Scion had been asked by all three of the Grand Companies to join their ranks. Well… some would say ask… it looked more like a courtship of three men trying to win the affections of a woman. At least that was how Thancred had described them.

So she was the one who fell the might Ifrit, and she looked no worse the wear for having been fighting with the primal of fire. Beside the fact that she was looking a little tired, she seemed to be perfectly well and healthy. He walked forward so that he could stand next to her, his sister right beside him on his other side, and he whispered, "Do you see the Gridanian standard?"

Claire Faye looked over at him with mild surprise that he was speaking to her like they already knew each other as he continued, "There, hanging behind the Elder Seedseer. The entwined serpents represent the unity between Hyur and Elezen. An elegant symbol, do you not agree?"

But she had no time to answer for the Seedseer was continuing with her speech.

"In accordance with the will of the elementals, we have embraced a life of peace," she called to the crowd, who were continuing to watch with amazement to every word she said, "Alas, our neighbors have not always sought the same for themselves — nor for us. Though we Gridanians have no love for war, we still less for those who would threaten our way of life. Ever have we fought to protect the sanctity of the Twelveswood."

Alphinaud had to admit that was true. Yes… so much so that they have become very much like the Ishgardians… keeping to their woods and having a distrust of outsiders. At least they have yet to fully close their gates to the outside world… though he wondered if that was just because of the Alliance.

"When the Garlean Empire brought its war of conquest to Eorzea, we rallied under the noble standard of the Twin Adder, that we might push back the encroaching darkness," Kan-E-Senna spoke on, "And it was we who prepared the ground for the reformation of the Eorzean Alliance, that all the peoples of this realm might stand united against the common threat."

She paused, and the crowd applauded, before she continued once again. "Five years ago, the Alliance met the armies of the Empire upon the fields of Carteneau. It would prove the bloodiest battle in recent memory. Countless Gridanian lives were lost. As supreme commander of the Order of the Twin Adder, ever shall I bear the weight of our people's sacrifice. Alas, their loss was not the only tragedy to befall us that day, for soon came the Calamity. The scars borne by our forest are a constant reminder of its violence. Our lives have been irrevocably changed, each waking hour a struggle to survive. Driven to desperation, some among us have strayed from the path of righteousness, resorting to banditry, poaching, and other unconscionable deeds. To compound our woes, the Ixal have returned in force, emboldened by our suffering. They test our defenses nigh without cease, and prey upon the vulnerable. So beleaguered from within and without, it is of little wonder that our unity now falters. Dark times are upon us."

There was a discontented murmur from the crowd, cursing the Ixal and their current predicaments. The Seedseer closed her eyes a moment, and Alphinaud raised his eyebrows, wondering if he had just imagined the pained expression across her features before she kept speaking. "On this day, five years ago, countless laid down their lives that we might behold another dawn. Please join with me in honoring their memory."

The crowd all grew silent around them, allowing time to think about all that was sacrificed, but that was when Alphinaud heard his sister whisper, almost angrily, "And how do you propose to honor the memory of those you cannot remember, pray tell?"

Alphinaud chose to ignore her, more curious about what was to be said next.

After several moments, the Seedseer resumed her speech. "The destruction wrought by the Calamity was indiscriminate — it dealt death to Eorzean and Garlean alike. Yet while we have labored to rebuild – to rebuild our lives — the Empire has set about raising steel fortresses here in the Twelveswood. Let none be mistaken — the Garleans remain the greatest threat to our survival. If we are to stand against them, we must remember what it is to be united. Our many troubles blind us to the woes of our fellow man. Thence is harmony lost. Yet harmony is the founding principle of Gridania. We are gathered here to honor the fallen. Let them be honored not only in word and thought, but through concerted action! I bid you join hands with me once more beneath the Twin Adder standard! And together, let us heal the forest's wounds, that our progeny might live in harmony beneath these boughs. For serenity, purity, and sanctity!"

The speech ended, and the crowd erupted in cheers and applause, and the Seedseer smiled warmly at the crowd, turning and leaving the stage.

It seemed to be over already. He was not surprised… nor was he was impressed with the speech. Neither had it seemed, was Alisaie, or even Claire. She remained behind with them as most of the crowd were leaving the grounds. When they were alone, he turned to speak with her properly.

"If you'll permit me," he said, introducing himself to her, "Alphinaud." He then looked behind him to his sister, who didn't even bother to look over at them as he introduced her as well. "And my sister, Alisaie, at your service."

Claire nodded her head once. "My name is Claire," she answered in a soft voice, "And the pleasure is all mine. I heard what you said about the standard. Were you speaking to me, while you said it?"

He smiled at her and answered, "I saw at a glance that you were a fellow traveler. You might call us students of history, sampling the realm's remembrances in pursuit of…" He paused. "Enlightenment."

Claire did not answer, merely waiting patiently and he recognized that she wished for him to continue.

"The Gridanians are unfortunate enough to have to contend with two beast tribes," he informed her. "The Ixal are unquestionably the more troublesome, being of a naturally warlike disposition, and wont to summon their bloodthirsty primal, Garuda. The sylphs, by contrast, are peaceful in nature, being mischievous rather than malevolent, and have long been on friendly terms with the Gridanians — until recently, at least. Alas, they have grown aloof, a change observed at roughly the time they summoned the primal Ramuh." He paused, a small, unreadable smile crossing his face. "The Gridanians have no love for war, and they consider open conflict a last resort. Though they clash with the Ixal ever more regularly, you may be assured that they do so in self-defense. As for the sylphs…they are as yet bound by a peace treaty, though one wonders how long it will be before it is broken."

"I see," Claire answered, "And what do you think should be done about this?"

He glanced around at the empty amphitheater and answered, unable to hide just the tiniest hint of disappointment in his voice, "The Twelveswood was grievously wounded during the Calamity, leaving Gridania vulnerable to attack. The people are hopeful that restoring the wood— and thereby the power of the elementals— will put an end to their woes." He shook his head, chuckling softly. "Yet how long will that take? Centuries, I'd wager. Meanwhile, the Ixal will continue their incursions, spurred on by Garuda and her insatiable appetite for destruction. Whether the Gridanians like it or not, sooner or later it will come to an all-out war. And when it does, the Order of the Twin Adder will need all the help it can muster." He shook his head, his expression still amused. "How valuable might the aid of a capable adventurer prove to them then?"

"I am not sure," she answered calmly. "I am still new to these lands if I must be honest. And I know little of the history, nor of the problems facing the nations. But I thank you for all that you have said. I found it most… enlightening, myself."

He smiled back before he gave a short bow and he left with his sister as Claire remained behind, and he wondered if she was merely reflecting upon his words or had already made up her mind.

Once they were a distance away from the Amphitheatre, Alisaie glanced at him before she asked briskly, "What was that about? You showing off is nothing new, but why seek her out specifically?"

"I merely wished to speak with her face-to-face," he confessed honestly. "As a Scion, it would've been rude not to do so."

"I think you just liked having someone who actually has the patience to put up with your explanations," she said coldly. "I usually just ignore you."

"Well, I won't deny that is an added bonus," he said with a laugh, "Now then, we make for Ul'dah. The next speech will be tomorrow night."

*Ul'dah*

They arrived almost late once again to the Royal Promenade, having to squeeze in among the throng of people that were gathered in this narrow hallway. Standing in front of them upon the carpeted stairs were two Sultansworn on either side of a pair of doors, as well as General Raubahn… with none other than the Sultana Nanamo Ul Namo at his side.

The two of them pushed their way through the masses as the General continued on in a loud and commanding voice, "Hark you, souls of flame, drawn to the bosom of the desert, where the fire burns brightest and shall rage forevermore! Where since antiquity, under the sage and judicious rule of the Ul Dynasty, we have wrought sand into gold! Where by the Grace and Glory of Nald'thal have our brave sons and daughters flourished and prospered— I speak of Ul'dah!"

They drew nearer to the stairs as the crowd all roared out proudly at the mention of their home. To his pleasant surprise, he saw that Claire was also there as well. Most of the crowd were Lalafells, so she wasn't that difficult to spot standing over them. She must've sensed that she was being watched and she turned her head around in their direction. She gave them a smile, and wordlessly offered for them to stand next to her as she looked back to the front.

He took her up on her offer as they came up to stand beside her, while his eyes went to the standards behind the Flame General.

"There, at the Flame Generals' back flies the Grand Company's standard," he offered for Claire, knowing that she was listening to his words. "Note the sigil. The golden scales of order balance the jewel of prosperity with the flame of might."

A sigil that he did not like though… for it looked to him that it was a symbol of not to be proud of. The flame of might on the sigil was on a set of scales with the jewel of prosperity as the counterweight. As far as he could see… the sigil was a symbol of an attitude which invites conflict and self-interest. A sigil where control of the people are handed to the wealthiest citizens… then again, perhaps that's was the perfect standard for Ul'dah now that he thought about it.

"I see," Claire said simply as Raubahn went on with his own speech.

"Great and many are the gifts our nation has given the realm. In Eorzea's darkest hour, on the killing fields of Carteneau, none spent more in blood and gold than we. Thus was the VIIth Imperial Legion laid low!" he called out.

Alphinaud rolled his eyes and had to fight the dark laugh threatening to leave his lips as the crowd roared with approval. Instead, he muttered so that only Claire and Alisaie could hear, "So that's how it happened! How soon history forgets."

Neither of them said a word as they continued listening in.

"Yet many left our gates, never to return," Raubahn resumed after the cheers faded again. "Let us pray for our absent brothers and sisters, that they might know happiness in the great beyond, as Thal's honored guests." Just like how it had been at Gridania, the crowd solemnly saluted at his words. And just like how it had been at Gridania, it did not last long.

"If the fates were fair, the price we paid that day would have brought us victory. Alas, they are not. And now, but five years into this Seventh Umbral Era, the spirit of sacrifice which granted us our strength is all but dead." General Raubahn threw his arms wide. "Look around you. What do you see? A people divided, downtrodden and enthralled! Where are the merciful alms of the rich?! Where is the just steel of the righteous?! I ask you: is this the great nation our brothers and sisters gave their lives to save? You who call this 'living' dishonor the name of the Immortal Flames— it is but a slow death!"

Well, at least he was honest.

"Our enemies surround us," the Flame General called, "The savage hordes of the Amalj'aa wait beside our roads, strangling the lifelines of trade. Meanwhile, the Garleans make mock of our borders, and despoil our land of its natural wealth. We stand on a precipice…yet we do not act. Whether trader or soldier, Monetarist or Royalist, all must recognize that a divided Ul'dah stands to fall."

He then raised a fist once more to the sky. "Victory and Fortune walk hand-in-hand! Ye who seek glory and wealth! Look not to what little you can snatch from your neighbor, but to the boundless wealth of the world beyond! Now is the time to unite! Now is the time to ride forth! In the name of the sultana, I beseech you! Line not your own coffers, but those of the Immortal Flames! Seek not to prosper from Ul'dah, but to restore her to prosperity! As the realm prospers, so shall Ul'dah. As Ul'dah prospers, so shall her people!"

The crowd erupted once again into applause, and Raubahn turned, kneeling to the sultana, before she stepped forward, sitting primly upon his forearm – and Alphinaud couldn't help but wonder if a part of him was showing off as he lifted the Sultana up high above the crowd. His eyes found the Sultana and she smiled almost sadly, yet she took her turn to speak to the people.

"People of Ul'dah! I, Nanamo, seventeenth in the line of Ul, address you," she called in a sweet voice that carried over them all. "Much has been made of the wealth of Ul'dah. Yet those who measure that wealth in coins and carats are gravely deceived. For the true wealth of Ul'dah lies in the health, happiness, and hopes of her people. Beloved subjects, I bid you raise aloft the torch of Ul'dah, that her Flames might serve as a beacon for all Eorzea to see!"

The crowed roared its love for the sultana, thunderous applause echoing in the chamber, and Raubahn raised his fist one last time. "For Victory and Fortune, stride fearless into the inferno," he roared. "For we are by fire reborn!"

"He has a gift for speaking," Claire said causally, "Almost makes me wish I was as well."

Alphinaud chuckled a little though it was lost over the loudest cries of approval from the people yet. With all the noise happening around them, it was impossible to have a conversation at the moment. But the three of them patiently waited for the crowd to leave once again before they all turned to each other again.

"Fancy meeting you again," he said, amusement in his voice.

"A pleasant one," she smiled. "Tell me, what did you think? I am curious to know after you made your opinions to me back in Gridania."

He could have sworn that he felt his sister roll her eyes behind him, as if to say, 'don't encourage him.'

He chuckled at that as he ignored her, addressing Claire directly. "The Ul'dahns have a long history of conflict with the Amalj'aa, the beast tribe that worships the primal Ifrit. Judging from your look of distaste," he added, when he saw her expression darken and he remembered that she had quite a first mission by the Scions. "I take it you have encountered them," he asked, though he knew the answer.

She nodded her head, though she didn't speak more about the subject, merely waiting for him to continue on. He obliged by explaining, "The Ul'dahns do not shy from confrontation. If aught threatens their precious prosperity, they will seek to crush it."

Such a brute force method in his opinion. Yet he didn't say that, merely telling her, "So they have dealt with Ifrit thus far, smothering his flames each time he is stoked to life. Yet he is but one of several problems. Though they have been quiet these past five years, the Garleans have not gone away. Meanwhile, refugees continue to arrive in droves, and Ul'dah has no clear policy on how to deal with them. After all, not even the sultanate's coffers are bottomless. And even assuming they had the coin, resources will ever be finite."

"Interesting," she said, "Sounds like there are as much problems here as it is in Gridania."

He nodded as he added on, "Which brings me back to the subject of Ifrit. It has been observed that the Amalj'aa are summoning him with ever increasing frequency. Every time they do so, the Ul'dahns send their forces to smite the primal, and though they invariably succeed, each victory is bought with blood. It is a war of attrition which they cannot well sustain. Small wonder, then, that the Immortal Flames are eager to recruit more members."

Her eyes seemed to turn sad as she looked away for a moment. He watched that look, unsure what had caused it, or what she would do, but he smiled slightly as he added, "At such a desperate hour, an adventurer of your experience would be a most welcome addition to their ranks."

"Perhaps," she agreed. "Though that remains to be seen." She looked back at him and added, "Thank you once again for your insight. Once more it has been… enlightening. I expect that I will be seeing you at the final service?"

He merely smiled, letting her know that she would be right and he followed after his sister, who left ahead of him, and seemed unable to stand listening for much longer.

"Doesn't talk much, does she?" Alisaie stated more than questioned. "Compared to you anyway. That, or she simply does not mind as you continue to talk. Don't know why she does. It gives me a headache every time you open your mouth."

"Just because there are those who enjoy my company does not mean that you need to dislike them, sister," he reminded her patiently.

"Why did you not tell her that you knew that she had defeated Ifrit?" she asked suddenly, giving him a suspicious look out of the corner of her eyes.

"I simply wished to give her as much information as possible before she makes her choice in the end," he offered. "I have no intention of influencing her decision… merely to help give her as much information from someone completely unbiased. There is no need to tell her who I am at the moment."

"Because you are considering to abandon our mission?" she asked coldly.

"Don't be ridiculous," he answered back calmly, yet there was still some anger there. "I was simply enlightening her."

*Limsa Lominsa*

"I think that this place might be the only place that will allow even pirates who look as though they had half-drowned themselves with ale would be allowed in here," Alisaie said crossly. "Not that it matters. I doubt that it will be any different from the last two places."

"We shall soon see, sister," Alphinaud answered as they stepped through crowd, whom the people seemed to be so focused on the Admiral they were not noticed. Good thing, for this city was filled with pick-pockets and they wouldn't hesitate to try and rob from them if they were paying any attention. However, some of them do seem like they had been sampling a fair amount of ale before coming here… some were as green as the leaves in Gridania while others were swaying where they stood—like they couldn't see straight.

Thankfully, most of the people seemed to be quite sober as they were waiting for it all to begin. Alphinaud looked around, hoping to find Claire before it did start and he was glad to find her. She was standing near the front once again… yet unlike the last two times, she did not seem to be at all surprised when she heard them approach. She merely moved to the side a little bit to give them room. He and Alisaie took the spot just as the audience was cheering up at the balcony above them.

Up he looked, to see the Admiral strolling forward. A strong stride, fitting for one who ruled over this city of brigands and cutthroats. With an eye as sharp as any hawk's the Admiral looked down sharply at each and every one of them before she raised her fist high into the air.

"Brothers and sisters of the sea, hearken unto me!" she called, traces of a pirate still in her voice, "Look upon this, our mighty crimson standard, and tell me your hearts do not swell with pride!" She allowed them to cheer once more, and continued. "Seven hundred summers have come and gone since our forefathers first ran aground in this fertile bay. In that time, guided by the Mother of Oceans, Limsa Lominsa has grown from humble fishing village to uncontested ruler of the five seas and beyond!"

"Did you look, as the Admiral bid you?" Alphinaud asked Claire, "It is a rather stirring standard, I must say. The crimson field is meant to signify the blood of fallen crewmates, while the black longship represents a pirate vessel."

"Appropriate," she stated softly, and like before, she did not seem surprised by the sudden explanation.

"When the Garlean Empire marched upon Eorzea, we assembled beneath the Maelstrom's standard, and our Grand Company was reborn. All answered the call, from the Knights of the Barracuda to Hyllfyr's Bloody Executioners, and together we met our would-be conquerors upon the field of Carteneau," the Admiral christened, her eyes darkening as the memories of that day seemed to be flooding back to her. "That day, the world bore witness to the united strength of Limsa Lominsa! I swear to you— no army ever fought harder, or with more courage. Yet many of ours did not survive. Join me now in remembering those who fought in the name of freedom, and fell. May their souls be returned to the sea."

She snapped a salute, and the crowd did so as well, though Alphinaud again spoke in a murmur. "Freedom… Yes, they have always been rather fond of their freedom. Much as the beast tribes have. Small wonder— beneath the surface, one would struggle to tell them apart."

"It has been five long years since the Calamity struck," the Admiral continued on, after the moment of silence having been as short as the other two. "Five long years of tireless rebuilding. Yet still the wounds of the Calamity fester and weep. But when I stand atop the Mizzenmast, and gaze upon our battered and broken vessel, I see an undying spirit. Did we not build all this from the wreck of the Galadion all those centuries ago? Shall we not do so again!?"

She brought her arm down in a sweeping gesture. "Yet there are those who would see this ship sink beneath the waves of the restless Rhotano. The Sahagin creep ashore seeking blood for their accursed god. While the mines of O'Ghomoro spew forth kobolds who push ever south, despoiling our lands as they go. These savage beast tribes will be the first waves to crash against our creaking hull. And behind them swells the grim tide of the Garlean Empire. Even now, the curs fly their flags within our borders. Doubt not but that they will be upon us ere long. We are well nigh surrounded. Yet there are those among us who would rather turn their swords against their crewmates than our cannons against our foes. How can we hope to repel our many enemies when mutiny breeds below deck?"

Ah, but isn't that in a pirate's nature? They claim to love freedom, yet are not above taking those of others such as the beastman. Little wonder why both the Sahagin and the Kobolds hate the people here so dearly.

Yet again, the Admiral raised up her fist.

"There is but one course left to us!" she shouted out in a strong voice. "One bearing that will bring us victory over the beast hordes and the Empire both, and see this ship safe to port. We must mend the rift the Calamity has reopened 'twixt pirate and Maelstrom, and stand fast with our adventurer brothers against the coming tempest! Mark ye well: a crew without unity is no crew at all — 'tis but a mass of drowned men. To me, then, brothers and sisters of the sea! Gather beneath the undying crimson standard and pledge me your strength, your skill, your wisdom! And with the guidance of the Navigator, this great vessel of ours shall ride the waves till sea swallows all!"

Alphinaud sighed, shaking his head… wondering why he had been expecting anything else. Her speech was hardly different from the last two… and once again, he was not the least bit impressed with any of it. Claire stayed back, and so he decided to do so as well. Alisaie looked as if she couldn't care less what they did anymore, so they all drew back to allow the few drunk pirates and the citizens to leave before they would have a chance to speak to each other without interruption.

"I'm starting to think that the gods are trying to tell me something with me continuing to run into you two," Claire stated to them in amusement.

He smiled back, liking her slightly dry sense of humor. "As the Admiral mentioned in her address, Limsa Lominsa is plagued by two beast tribes. The first are the fish-like Sahagin, worshipers of the primal Leviathan. The second are the kobolds, who dwell beneath the earth, and take the primal Titan for their god. As if the beast tribes' presence weren't enough, the Garleans have also chosen to erect a fortress right in the Lominsans' backyard," he informed her, once more pleased that she was listening in to him without interruption.

"And that is to say naught of internal strife," he added, "As a nation of pirates, there is no end to the blood feuds between the various factions. And while they fight amongst themselves, the Garleans whet their blades and watch. If the Lominsans are to have any hope of withstanding the Empire, they must first resolves their own affairs. Differences must be set aside, and the primal threat dealt with once and for all." He paused, glancing up at the standards hanging upon the walls once again before he sighed, "To this end, I expect that they will soon take decisive action against the beast tribes. Mark my words, the Maelstrom standard will be drenched a deeper shade of crimson ere long."

He looked back towards Claire, who was watching him with a passive expression that he could not read. "That a capable adventurer like you would be a valuable addition to their crew is beyond question. But will you sail with the Admiral?" he asked.

Claire seemed to think it all over for a moment.

"We shall find out," she answered calmly. "In either case, I thank you for all your words of wisdom up till now. I will think over everything you have said and I will make my decision then. I hope that we will meet again soon."

He bowed to her politely as they parted ways for the third time.

"I did not think it possible," Alisaie told him with a huff. "For someone to stand to hear not one but three long explanations from you."

"You sound impressed," he told her with a shrewd expression. "I don't think that you said so much as a word to her."

"You were so busy talking that I had no time," she answered back coolly. "You know, you should hang onto her. Not many can put up with you like that. If you weren't already in love with the sound of your own voice, I would suggest that you ask her out. Though I doubt even her patience could last if you married her."

"My dear sister, I barely know her," he laughed.

"Good, I would've pitied her otherwise," she answered back amused. "I pity any who has to put up with you for too long. And that includes me."

"How rude of you," he said. "Come, if we hurry, we can catch the final ferry out of Limsa for the night."

*Later on in Ul'dah*

"Yes, it is over," Alphinaud explained as he shared a meal with Alisaie at the Quicksand and was speaking to Minfilia over the linkpearl. "I did meet up with Claire a couple times. Tell me, has she made up her mind?"

"She said so," Minfilia told him and she sounded slightly frustrated. "She says that she thought it over long and hard and that she will be arriving soon with her answer. She should be here any minute, which I certainly hope so. Our… guests from the Grand Companies, while we are delighted to have them here, I don't know how some of the other Scions can take having to put up with their… suspense. Y'shtola is quickly losing patience with them, and I think that it may be a matter of time before she deals with them in her own way. Oh… hold on. Tataru had just informed me that she has just returned. Looks like we will soon find out. I hope to hear from you again soon."

He hung up and took a long sip of his drink before he looked at his sister's unhappy and thoughtful expression across the table.

"The gods only know what 'grand' company our adventurer friend will keep," he offered. "Hmph. The wheels of change are in motion regardless."

"Brother," she said, speaking for the first time in what felt like bells and he could tell that this had been on her mind for some time. "Are you certain this course is best?"

"Whatever do you mean, dear sister?" he asked politely.

"The so-called 'Remembrance' ceremonies were little more than standard-waving rallies," she said angrily, before she glared at the tabletop and added, "As though the Calamity and the Seventh Umbral Era warrant scarcely a mention!"

"Well, of course they were 'standard-waving rallies'," he said casually before he took another long sip. "Since you are so observant, mayhaps you notice what mention was made of the Warriors of Light? None. I suppose they must have forgotten the heroes who spared Eorzea a fate worse than the Calamity? No, dear Alisaie, they haven't 'forgotten' these details. They have elected to omit them."

He was a little surprised to hear that he managed to keep the anger out of his voice for the most part. He took a deep breath, calming himself down before continuing on, "Deep are the wounds the Calamity inflicted upon Eoreza. So deep, in fact, that the realm still bleeds. Needless to say, the beast tribes and their primals do little to alleviate the pain. So the task of salving Eoreza's wounds falls to the Scions of the Seventh Dawn — with a little help from our friends the Grand Companies. Remembrance will yield no remedy. If our world is to heal, we must put the horrors of the Calamity behind us."

But his words only seemed to infuriate her all the more as she suddenly stood up, slamming her hands on the table.

"Our grandfather would never entrust the fate of the realm to despots who rewrite history to their convenience!" she shouted out, earning the startled expressions of several of the other guests. In fact, Mistress Momodi was looking around, as if wondering that she would have to be forced to have them thrown out.

Yet he and Alisaie ignored them all as the two of them stared at each other long and hard—like they were the only people in the room at the moment. But at long last, Alisaie stood tall, turned and walked around the table, heading straight to the door. He did not know how… perhaps he could just sense it, however he just knew that this was where they would part ways.

He did not react at all as he finished his meal and she stopped right next to him.

"There must be another way to cure what ails this world," she said firmly. "And I mean to find it!"

"You are most welcome to try," he informed her, silently letting her know that he had no intention of trying to stop her or talk her out of it. "Our paths may differ, but our destination is the same. In time, I daresay we will see eye-to-eye."

"I should hope so," she said coldly, and without another word to him, without even looking back, she walked out.

Alphinaud did not act like anything just happened, merely allowing his thoughts to wander as he muttered to himself, "Hope does not come into it. We share the burden of this fate, dear sister. And we will prevail together, or not at all." He closed his eyes for a moment as he finished, "The salve will serve not only to close up our present wounds…" he gazed up at the ceiling grimly and finished, "But prevent old ones from opening anew."

*End of Memory*

He could see was Alisaie meant… what an arrogant child he was back then.

"I changed a lot since we last saw each other, my lady," he said softly. "But 'tis only because I have such loyal companions at my side that I was able to push myself up again."

"I am glad," Kan-E-Senna said kindly. "And I also have a feeling that Claire may be a good influence on you."

"Maybe…" he whispered a little absent-mindedly. It was so strange how things had changed since then. He merely introduced himself and Alisaie to a random adventurer. That was all that Claire was to him at that point though, wasn't she? Just some stranger who had only recently joined the Scions.

Who would have thought that they would have come all this way together? Have achieved so much in the short time that they had?

But as he thought more about it and Claire's face appeared in his mind's eye he couldn't help but also think to himself…

'Or that… whenever she smiled, somehow I found myself smiling along with her.'

Alphinaud felt his cheeks starting to burn a little red at the memory. In fact, he was so lost in thought, he did not notice the curious expression on Kan-E-Senna's face as she was looking at him. She looked at him wonderingly, like how one was trying to figure out a complicated problem… before she seemed to grasp the answer in front of her. She smiled, a slight chuckle on her lips as she turned her gaze out over the frozen land of white.

"Do you find something amusing, my lady?" Alphinaud asked her curiously when he heard the chuckle.

"Oh no…" she reassured him kindly, her eyes twinkling a little. "I had been wondering something for a time now, and only now do I see that my suspicions may have been correct all along. To be honest, 'tis something that me and the other Alliance Leaders had been wondering about. I shall have to inform them when I next see them."

Alphinaud blinked, wondering just what it was she meant. "About what, my lady?"

She just laugh quietly a little more before she continued to gaze at the land below them; instead she changed the subject by asking him more about what their adventures in Ishgard, sounding a little bit like a child who wanted to hear the ending of a bedtime story.

Alphinaud blinked a few times before he nodded and complied, informing her next of their wild ride on the black chocobos and his first trip to the Western Highlands.

(Sorry for the long wait. However I've been busy the last week and my birthday is going to be on Sunday so I haven't had much energy for writing. Anyway, the new patch comes out tomorrow! I don't know about you all, but I just can't wait to hear more of the story! So I thought that I had to get this chapter out before then. Hope you all enjoy it.)

EvanderAdvent: I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying my story so far. And I have to agree with what you said about the moogles. It started off as fun and an easy way to level up Claire… after about the hundredth mission from the moogles I was soon fighting the urge to start screaming. While I can't tell you how everything will end, rest assure that Estinien will be stating what he really thinks of these guys soon enough.