Author's note:

A quick thank you to the reviews I've received so far. Though I've gotten a negative handful that failed to read my warnings at the start of my story, I'm still in a way, flattered that they bothered to leave their comments at all. However, if criticism is centered on personal remarks against me and the pairings, instead of my writing or the story itself, then I regret to inform you that I don't find them very useful and have to discard them. Thank you.

In other news, I've written a new SO3 fanfic titled "Beauty of the Beast" and its first two chapters are up for reading. As the title suggests, it's a fantasy AU and loosely based off Disney's "Beauty and The Beast". If you're interested, do check it out.

Playlists for both stories are available on my profile.

Accompanying track for this chapter: "The Collapse of Laputa" by Joe Hisaishi.

Review responses:

Guest - Thank you for leaving a review and I'm glad you love my story so far :) There's nothing much I can say without giving the story away, so... read on, and if your questions are unanswered, rest assured they will be eventually.

Siren Child - Haha hello again! Wow, that was one long review and I really appreciate all the effort put in on your part to give relevant compliments for select scenes. It's really rewarding to find out I've done a decent job with the battle scene between Fayt and Albel, and kept the suspense going to boot. I can't promise you'll find out what happened to Roger without giving too much away, but you will soon enough ;) Yes, I feel sort of terrible for killing Clair, but it had to be done for this chapter to happen. Hope you enjoy reading it!

The Stars Told Me So

by Dark Interval

Chapter 13: My Mission is My Religion

Fayt burst through the door of Roger's bedroom, startling the young healers on duty. The wooden barrier slammed against the wall so hard, it created a slight dent from the force.

"Roger!" he screamed, only to get swarmed by women. He struggled to fight them off, but they stood their ground. Hands flew up at him, holding him down, pushing him away, restrained him; yet he remained persistent.

"Roger, it's me! I'm back… I'm ok!"

"Young man, please keep your voice down," hushed the doctor, growing increasingly annoyed as she fought to keep him back. "The patient needs his rest. Please stop – he smacked her in the face – I order you to leave at once!"

But he didn't give a rat's ass.

"I'm not going anywhere until I see him!"

"I cannot allow – "

"At ease," said Nel from the entrance, arms folded. Cliff and Dion peeked nervously into the room from behind her. She maintained her stare and the doctor bowed in submission, her fellow nurses following suit.

"L-Lady Nel…"

"I'd like you and your team to give us some privacy." Her eyes darted to Fayt, whose face had gone pale with worry. "And if Fayt wishes to see the patient in the future, under no circumstances are you to turn him away. Understood?"

"Yes Ma'am."

The healers shuffled out of the room obediently just as Fayt flew to Roger's bedside. True to Dion's words, the Menodix was in an indefinite coma, breathing harshly. Sweat matted his brow and his cheeks were thoroughly flushed. He was frowning in his sleep, as if every intake of breath proved a painfully arduous task. Despite the number of times Fayt called out to him, begged and pleaded him to wake up, to acknowledge his presence; that he had come home and fulfilled his promise, to please be all right… Roger slept on undisturbed, his ears not even giving the barest twitches of acknowledgment. It pained him to know that his words weren't getting through to him.

It didn't matter that he had just defeated Albel and prevented the guy from abducting Roger, or that Arias and all its inhabitants were slaughtered under a few agonizing hours, or even if Ameena was fighting for her own life in the next room. Victory meant nothing to him, the on goings of war but a distant nightmare if Roger wasn't around to witness these things by his side. He had his own reasons for involving himself in this war, but those reasons would soon fade to dust if the boy never woke up.

"I should have stayed with you," he found himself regretting for the second time that hour, reaching out with shaky fingers.

His lower lip quivered and he bit it. Now that the adrenaline had died down, and death loomed large in this room, did it finally sink in that he had survived an actual assassination attempt amidst a three-way war. The stakes were piling up, doubt and fear clouded his heart as he was once again reminded of his key position in this conflict, but without Roger's company and support, he felt even more lonely and terrified than before.

"I don't know what's happening, Roger. I don't know what to do. I feel so lost…"

Nel watched the scene with growing sympathy, guilty for getting both boys more involved than they should, but it was too late to turn back. Airyglyph was coming and they hadn't much time.

"Fayt, I'm sorry, but we have to – "

"No, don't touch him!" But Dion's warning came a second too late.

"Ah!" Fayt gave a sharp cry, yanking his hand back from Roger's forehead. What the hell – his skin was on fire! Never had he come across fevers that felt this bad before... 'Abnormal' was right. How was Roger even alive?!

"Fayt!"

"Kid, you hurt?"

Cliff inspected his hand as Fayt hissed from the contact. The skin over his fingertips and palm glowed a raw pink.

"I'm fine," he muttered, wincing.

But what the hell was that?

Nel approached the bed and shut her eyes, allowing her hand to ghost over Roger's body. Power gathered at her fingertips and her aura clashed with an angry red glow, which emitted from the humanoid's body. The aura pushed her away and she bit her lip in trepidation, withdrawing her hand. Since her acquaintance with the Menodix, she always knew his abilities were special compared to his peers, but this… whatever this was didn't feel like him at all.

"It's foreign, but it's not hurting him. I think – she hesitated – I think it's protecting him."

"But the pipsqueak's in pain, isn't he?" Cliff indicated at Roger with his thumb. "He looks like he can barely breathe!"

His observation left Nel feeling even more uncertain.

"Maybe it's not protecting him… maybe it's protecting itself." She noticed Fayt reach out to him again from the corner of her eye. "Fayt, don't!"

And that was when she saw it again – the strange blue light. It centered on Fayt's forehead before rupturing to spread throughout his entire body, covering him in a faint, ethereal glow. However, he didn't even seem to notice the change, too concerned over Roger's well being. As if in a trance, his hand passed through the red aura effortlessly and the angry barrier faded, leaving him with his palm upon Roger's forehead and a peaceful, content smile on the sleeping boy's face. Instantly, the heat receded to a mild fever. Fayt brushed aside unruly chocolate-colored bangs and planted a tender kiss on his lover's forehead.

As Dion and Nel gaped at the spectacle, the latter stopped to wonder if that had been symbology as well. How powerful was it anyway? It seemed different though, felt different. Now she knew she had hadn't been imaging things back at Traum Mountains. Who was Fayt exactly, and how was he able to perform a feat no other healer could? What made him so special?

To the side, Cliff continued to watch Fayt with a knowing frown. The kid's abilities were starting to manifest rapidly under such a short time frame it was almost disconcerting. On top of that, they seemed sensitive to his emotions, which wasn't exactly a good thing seeing as Fayt was undergoing a lot of stress and was by default a teenager chuck-full of raging hormones. Mirage certainly wouldn't be happy to hear about this…

But his carefree smirk returned as soon as Nel turned around to face him. She raised her eyebrows while he shrugged.

"Don't look at me, I'm just a bodyguard. And Mirage's just a pilot."

Along the way, they had established Mirage's role in the whole thing – a pilot, who hid away while he and Fayt had gotten captured by Airyglyph soldiers. Mirage herself had quickly explained that she spent days trying to locate them. However, before Nel could pry anything else from her, she excused herself to tend to Ameena in one of the guest rooms, seeing it as a personal responsibility. At least it was clear who the more levelheaded one was between the two blondes.

Nel released a drawn out sigh. She didn't have any reason to distrust Cliff any more than their first meeting in the dungeons. However, the fall of Arias and Clair's death took its toll on her, making her feel more stressed than when she first began this mission. Everything seemed to be crashing down on her; her sacrifices all in vain – in the end, she failed to protect her subordinates, and their deaths along with Clair's, weighed heavily on her shoulders. Her best friend's scarf around her neck remained a cruel, permanent reminder of what she needed to do, what still needed to be done.

With or without Roger.

"Dion, how far are we with the progression of those weapons?"

"O-Oh, not too bad," he stuttered, alarmed by the sudden attention Nel was giving him. He was still trying to wrap his mind around what he had seen after all.

"With the copper at ready, my researchers and I can begin tests in a few hours. Roger and I had just perfected the designs before…" he trailed off, only to shake his head. No time to worry about the Menodix now. "Anyway, according to my calculations, we should complete all six weapons in about eight days."

"Well, you better amend those calculations of yours, pal, because Airyglyph's done fooling around."

"Cliff's right," Nel quipped, expression grave. "They took Arias… Aquarian forces never stood a chance."

Dion visibly paled. "You mean… Lady Clair is… is…"

"Gone, Dion. They're all gone."

He couldn't believe this. Everything he was hearing… Nothing stood between the royal city and Airyglyph now. He turned to Fayt urgently.

"Leingod, I need you in the lab. We must work quickly! We'll go through the plans and…"

But Fayt wasn't even hearing the chief researcher. Oh, he knew very well what was at stake, understood that time wasn't on their side, remembered the promises he made to Nel and the Queen, but how was he supposed to move on from here when the very person he actually made up his mind for, was in a coma and suffering from a mysterious ailment no one could even hope to understand? He couldn't just leave Roger like this…

'Can't do anything, my foot,' Fayt thought to himself cynically. He was doing plenty right here, right now. The boy was breathing normally; he had such a wonderful smile on his face, which hadn't been there before. There was no more pain. More than anything, he wished this was just some stupid joke and that Roger would jump up with a loud "Gotcha!" and then proceed to argue with Cliff like any other day. Unfortunately, that wasn't happening and Fayt found himself having to painfully accept the harsh reality in front of him.

His symbology kept Roger's body cool, while his free hand took the boy's smaller one in his, lacing their fingers intimately. Just like they had first done in Arias.

He wasn't going anywhere.

"Cross my heart," he repeated his parting words like a vow.

The low murmur of his voice caused Roger's ears to twitch, sending a warm jolt through his heart. He was finally getting through to him. He squeezed those tiny fingers between his calloused ones.

I'm here.

Dion was at a loss. Cliff eyed his charge and with a loud sigh, kicked off the chair he had been sitting on for the past half hour. He knew hopelessly in love and distracted when he saw it.

"Relax, four-eyes; I'll help with the weapons. Fayt's not the only tech-wiz in this room." Then, he turned to his charge. "Stay with the brat. I got you covered."

Fayt shot him a rare smile. "Thanks, Cliff."

"Don't mention it."

As the two men left the room and with Dion filling Cliff in on the latest developments, Nel lingered by the doorway, heart heavy and expression conflicted. As she heard Fayt desperately murmur the words, "Please wake up, please wake up" over and over, her gaze honed in on Roger – the young humanoid boy she practically grew up with. If she witnessed this scene in a world without war, she would have been by his bedside too, done what Fayt did with those healers and perhaps fight tooth and nail for a cure or at least a possible explanation behind this mysterious occurrence.

But not in this life.

Arias, the corpses of her fellow Aquarians, and the Sanmite Republic's flag flashed through her mind – a painful reminder of the politics that divided their nations now. Once upon a time, she loved Roger like family, having lost her own father to the war; but even stories had to come to an end. She couldn't bring herself to feel pity for the enemy. It was so hard to forgive and forget.

Nel turned and walked away, consumed by thoughts of the Menodix dying in his sleep. And somehow, it frightened her knowing that she was actually ok with that.

Within Castle Aquois' royal audience chamber, all was silent save the faint sounds of rushing water from the waterfalls outside. Even the melodious tunes from the chapel choir, who normally performed during such times of worship, were ostensibly absent in light of current circumstances. Instead, grief-stricken wails and moans permeated the air, oozing through the walls from the chapel below, replacing glorious praise with immense sorrow. The magistrates and members of the royal court fidgeted in their seats, lost for words over the war's recent developments.

Queen Romeria closed her eyes and ears to her people's pain, but even she knew that she couldn't quite close her heart to a kingdom's grief. Many people, loved ones, had died this day and their bodies were brought to the castle chapel to receive Apris' final blessings. The tears would only continue. The castle was open to visitors all night.

All this while, she had carried an unwavering hope that Arzei would find it in his heart to call off this madness, to remember those days of peace, to remember her… that hope was now lost. Those wistful days of springtime romance had passed. She wished things didn't have to be this way.

The moment of silence ended. She lifted her gaze, giving the royal court her full attention.

"Thank you for responding so swiftly, and to join me in grieving over my children of Arias. We are here to honor the lives of Clair Lasbard, commander of Aquaria's military, and our soldiers who have fought valiantly for the protection and sovereignty of our kingdom. May Apris guide their souls to peace."

Quiet murmurings filled the air as each official present offered up their prayers to the goddesses above. They stood around the audience chamber: on the steps, the floor below; even Laselle was present, ever dutiful as he took his place beside his Queen. Romeria chimed a small bell in conclusion and they lifted their heads simultaneously.

"Aquaria has lost not only a great leader, but the backbone of our entire army. By losing our border town and Lady Clair, we are left open and at the mercy of enemy fire. Peterny is our final line of defense. If we fail, Airyglyph and the Sanmite Republic will take the royal city in one fell swoop."

"Forgive me, your majesty," interrupted Laselle, bowing his head deeply, "but without Lady Clair, who will lead our soldiers?"

"Patience, Laselle. That is why she is here."

A young Aquarian was kneeling at the base of the steps this whole time. Romeria regarded her personal aid with benevolence. She could think of no other better suited for this role.

"Rise, Nel Zelpher, daughter of Neville Zelpher."

"Your majesty." Nel did as requested, though never lifted her head.

A look of sympathy crossed Romeria features as she stared at her; inwardly marveling at how much that sweet, innocent little girl had grown to be such a fine, brave, and masterful combatant.

"I am sorry for your loss, my child. It must not be easy losing a good friend shortly after mourning Sir Zelpher's death. You and Lady Clair have always been close. She was truly a remarkable leader, just like your father."

"Thank you, your majesty." Nel kept her eyes on the ground, humbled by her Queen's praise. Romeria continued to gaze at her in approval, having high regard for the woman's strength in the face of adversity.

"You have proven yourself by guiding the Greeton engineers safely into Aquarian territory. However," Romeria paused, gaze hardening in conviction, "in light of the recent siege of Arias, and the deaths of Aquaria's top militants, I must request one last thing from you – a new mission."

"A new mission?" Nel repeated, surprise evident in her voice, as she finally looked her Queen in the eye for the first time.

"Correct."

The Holy Mother rose from her throne and descended the steps. She stopped in front of Nel and lifted her chin with her hand to stare deep into the woman's unflinching violet eyes. Immediately, Romeria knew she made the right decision.

"From this moment forth, you are no longer my personal aid, but the new high commander of the Aquarian army. Everyone will be looking to you from now on. I can think of no other more suitable for the job."

Loud gasps transpired around the chamber as the royal court deliberated over the Queen's recent proclamation. And while Laselle did his best to maintain order amongst those present, Nel remained motionless, eyes wide and unblinking as she struggled to absorb her Queen's words. High… commander? Her? But she knew nothing of leading an entire military outfit! A small group of subordinates was all she ever commanded… could she really assemble a whole army and carry out a successful military operation?

"But – "

"You were the one who brought the engineers, whom we are eternally grateful for. You displayed an extraordinary degree of loyalty when you risked your life to save your fellow Aquarians from enemy hands. And you have proven your abilities by returning after each and every perilous mission time and time again."

Nel trembled before the Holy Mother, overcome by emotion. Never in her wildest dreams had she ever envisioned something like this to happen to her. As a small child, all her father ever talked about was supporting the Lasbards from the shadows… but she could still hear her father's dying words, how he felt honored to die for his kingdom as he welcomed death like an old friend. And now, Clair had followed after him in the name of Aquaria, in her fight for peace and a better tomorrow.

It was up to her now.

"Your majesty," she took her Queen's hand in hers and bowed her head graciously. "I am deeply honored to be Aquaria's high commander. I will lead our kingdom to victory."

"I have every faith in you," said Romeria with a nod. "May the grace of Apris be with you."

She motioned her advisor over. "Laselle."

"Yes, your majesty," he bowed respectfully.

"Summon the royal messenger. I want missives distributed throughout Aquois and Peterny."

Her eyes trailed over each and every court official present. She wished things didn't have to be this way, but it appeared the prophecy had already embarked on its path to fruition.

"At this moment, Aquaria is at war with both Airyglyph and the Sanmite Republic."

A few light knocks and a soft "Come in" later, found Dion stepping hesitantly into Ameena's bedroom. Earlier, he had secretly requested the doctor and her healers to place the poor girl in the guest room just opposite his living quarters. Call it research instincts, but there was just something he couldn't quite shake off about the brunette. He kept getting the impression that he knew her from somewhere…

"I beg your pardon, Miss Koas, but I hope I'm not intruding?"

Said woman turned her attention from Ameena to address him.

"Not at all," she answered with a gentle smile. "Dion, am I right?"

"Yes," he paused to stare at the slumbering girl beneath the covers.

Her breathing had evened out and she had a peaceful look on her face. Some color had even returned to her cheeks. Her brown shawl had been removed from her shoulders and was draped over the chair Mirage was sitting on.

"It's good to see that the worst is over."

He missed the flash of sorrow in Mirage's eyes and the slight downturn of her pink lips. She wanted so badly to correct Dion's observations, but what was she supposed to say? That she was truly sorry, but the disease Ameena had contracted was in its final stage and there was no hope of saving her? That the only cure lay within a battle cruiser hailing from a developed quadrant, which was more than a few light years away from their current destination? Like Fayt and Cliff, she had no intention on letting the inhabitants of an underdeveloped planet realize the minuteness of their existence within the greater Sol system, within the entire universe.

But that didn't mean that she lacked sympathy.

"Shall I give you some privacy?" she offered, ever the observant type.

At Dion's grateful bow and stutter of thanks, Mirage relieved herself from her post next to Ameena and approached him where he stood by the entrance. Confused, Dion stared up at her with a raised brow and she pushed something small into his hand.

"Fayt asked me to pass this to you." Then with a mysterious smile, she stepped out of the room and closed the door behind her.

For a moment, Dion remained motionless between the entrance and bed, pondering over the strange woman's behavior. His previous exchange with Cliff in the lab as the burly man preferred to use his hands than a pair of pliers, passed briefly through his mind's eye. And now, Leingod had a gift for him? It was official: all people from Greeton were weird…

…Until he parted his fingers and realized that perhaps Mirage wasn't so bad after all. Cryptic and a woman of few words, yes, but far more understanding and perceptive than anyone he had ever met. Shakily, he traced the dried up petals of the little handmade charm with his fingertips. He remembered this ornament; made it for a little girl who was always so sickly, but held a special place in his heart. His mother had taught him how to make a Maiden of Irisa charm, and he had given it to that little girl on the day she left Airyglyph forever. When he became a researcher for the Queen and moved to Aquois, he honestly thought he would never see her and this charm again.

"Ameena…it is you." He kneeled by her bedside and took her hand between his. It was as cold as ice.

"Why did you come here? Oh, what's happened to you?"

His mind was in turmoil. Of course he knew all about the death of her parents; how she had moved to Peterny to seek shelter from Airyglyph's bitter cold, but never did he know how serious her illness had escalated. The doctor had informed him of its developments. It wasn't a rare disease, but it was incurable as far as she could tell. So far, all those afflicted had died shortly after contracting it, but Ameena had survived far beyond expectations, so Dion remained exceedingly optimistic.

She had to pull through this, no matter what.

"I wish you'd wake up, Ameena," he whispered brokenly as he stroked her hair. The dull brown locks fell past his fingers, limp.

"There are so many things I want to ask you… to tell you… but most of all, I just want to hear your voice again."

A sad smile graced his lips. His eyes shone with unshed tears.

"I did it, Ameena. We did it. Aquaria's weapons are in their final phases and we're moving off tomorrow."

His voice shook and his fingers clenched the mattress in a bid to give himself confidence.

"We'll win this war, and I'll come home to you, just like I promised. You can live in the palace with me and it'll be like old times. We'll take walks down at Duggus Forest. Play by the streams of Sanmite Steppes. Just the two of us."

Staring at the charm in his palm for a brief moment, he set it gently by Ameena's pillow. Then, he clasped his hands together and bowed his head in prayer. If his friend died now, living through this war would be meaningless.

Irisa, hear my prayer: watch over Ameena.

Dion's hands moved to support himself as he leaned in to place a tender kiss upon the girl's forehead.

"We'll be together soon. I promise."

All was silent in the bedroom save the even breathings of its two occupants. While Roger continued to sleep on undisturbed, Fayt was seated on a chair next to the bed, head bowed and arms folded. Though his eyes were shut, the swordsman maintained a state of awareness, drifting just above the sea of unconsciousness. Truth be told, he had worn himself out. Pouring hours worth of energy into his symbology had really taken its toll on him, but at least he could content himself with the knowledge that Roger's temperature had receded to normalcy.

Suddenly, there was a light rap on the door and a blonde head poked into the room.

"Hey, kid. Come here for a second."

Fayt stirred in his sleep. 'Mmn… Cliff?'

Shaking his head and rubbing the sleep from his eyes, Fayt spared Roger one last parting glance before rising to his feet and quietly exited the bedroom. Once he stepped out into the hallway and shut the door behind him, he was mildly surprised to find not only Cliff waiting for him, but Mirage, Nel and Dion as well. He blinked slowly.

"What's going on?"

"You heard the news?"

Fayt avoided Cliff's stare. "Of course I did."

There was a dark scowl across his face, one that Nel saw but professionally dismissed.

"Her Majesty has delivered her proclamation," she reminded him, stepping forward. "If – she caught herself – once Roger wakes up, he's Aquaria's prisoner."

Fayt whirled around so fast he nearly hit her.

"But that's not fair! He didn't do anything!"

"His people did, and as a representative of his nation, he's answerable to their crimes."

"So, Roger's supposed to take responsibility for something he didn't even do!? He didn't even know about the Republic's motives. How is it justifiable to you for one boy to bear the blame for the fall of all of Arias!?"

Fayt didn't care if he was shouting at the top of his voice. All he knew was that he was probably the only person standing between Aquaria and the Menodix's innocence. Also, wasn't Nel supposed to be on Roger's side? The two practically grew up together!

"Then who am I supposed to blame for the death of my people, Fayt!?" Nel screamed, puncturing each statement with a jab to his chest. "Clair is dead. My subordinates are dead. The Republic have betrayed years of Aquarian trust, and we're the fools caring for a traitor in our royal guest room!"

Nel really let Fayt have it and throughout her tirade, there was nothing anyone could do to stop her. At the end of the day, she was born an Aquarian and would die an Aquarian. So, when it came to choosing sides, no matter how painful things got, the nature of her decision was inevitable. After all, that was why Nel embarked on that crazy mission to rescue them from Airyglyph in the first place. Her kingdom and the lives of its people came first.

"So, what's your choice, Fayt? Are you going back on your word, or will you help us?"

"Now hold on – "

"Fayt," Mirage stopped him, and the slight quirk of her lips really made Fayt wonder how the Klausian could smile at a time like this.

"I'm not too familiar with the politics of this country, but I believe in integrity." Despite her friendly disposition, there was no doubt she was lecturing him. "If you've agreed to something beforehand, then see it through. Don't make promises you don't intend to keep."

"I couldn't have said it better myself."

Fayt turned to regard Cliff, hurt evident in his eyes. "Cliff, you too?"

"Sorry, kid, but I'm with Mirage on this one. I hate to break it to you, but if we don't do anything soon, their next target's Peterny." He grabbed Dion by the shoulder and shoved the researcher forward. "Alright, four-eyes, keep him up to speed."

"R-Right," Dion stuttered as he pushed up his spectacles. It was really intimidating to meet Fayt in the eye during these instances, especially when he seemed to be the bearer of bad news. Well, to Fayt at least.

"The weapons aren't all complete, but Fittir and myself have managed to get two of them fully functional. They've passed the tests and will be ready to be transported to Peterny tonight. With their improved design, we believe two would be more than sufficient to drive home our point."

'Yeah, designs which Roger helped you with,' Fayt added bitterly to himself. His eyes scanned the expectant faces of Dion, Nel, Cliff, and Mirage. He couldn't help but feel disappointed in them as he closed his eyes and shook his head.

"You're all insane."

Fayt reached for the doorknob, but Cliff forcefully tugged him back.

"Look, you're not thinking straight – "

"I'm not thinking straight?" Fayt reiterated, aghast. "You're the ones talking about using Roger's designs to kill his own people!"

"Do you want me to knock some sense into that stubborn head of yours?!" Cliff shoved Fayt against the door. "Save me the sentimentality, kid. My mission is to protect you and bring you to our leader. You're the one losing sight of the end goal because of some brat. Don't you want to see your old man again?"

"Yes, but – "

"No buts. The quicker we help end this war, the faster we can go rescue your dad."

"Cliff's right, Fayt." Mirage stepped between them. "While looking for you two earlier, I received information about Dr. Leingod's whereabouts. But the trail will grow cold if we don't move quickly."

Fayt's heart skipped a beat. His dad… was alive? After all this time worrying about him and those horrible nightmares, Quark finally found him! He'd escape this crazy planet, rescue his dad, kick some Vendeeni butt, get some answers… but what about Roger?

"My mission is the same as Lady Nel's," said Dion all of a sudden, overcome with a burst of courage. "It's not just Aquaria… Ameena's counting on us too. I made her a promise, one that I intend to keep."

He shot Fayt a meaningful glare as the latter faltered.

"Dion, I…"

"I'll be leaving for Peterny tonight," interrupted Nel, the weight of her statement effectively directing all eyes on her. It was no secret the Crimson Blade spy had been promoted to Aquaria's military high commander.

"Airyglyph will soon attack again. I'm needed at the front." Then, she looked to both Fayt and Cliff. "And I'd be honored to have you guys fight by my side."

Cliff took her hands in his, holding her gaze. "There's no place I'd rather be."

Fayt watched the couple, almost resentful. He knew it. He knew this would happen once they got too involved with the happenings of an underdeveloped planet; had cautioned himself against intimacy countless of times… but he'd gone and fallen for someone all on his own. Cliff's words from their time in the Eagle rang through his mind, about how they had "made contact rather forcefully anyway", and he realized then that caring for Nel and Roger was a hopelessly inevitable consequence.

"… Fayt?"

At the sound of his name, he turned hesitant eyes to the red head. Unlike before, Nel was looking at him in a mixture of empathy and determination. He hated that look. It was the same stare she gave him that night at Kirlsa. His gentle heart grew to recognize it as the prelude to his downfall.

"I understand how difficult this is for you, but we're talking about a clash of three nations. If we don't put an end to this war now, many more will perish… possibly Roger as well."

No.

A low blow, but he had vowed to do all he could to protect the boy's future, even if it meant making a few sacrifices along the way. No matter what, Roger's safety came first. Cornered, Fayt felt his resolve crumble as he gave in with a heavy heart.

"Alright. What's the plan?"

"I'll have one unit stationed at the borders of the Sanmite Steppes, while the main battalion will be positioned up front. My sources indicate troops will come from the direction of Airyglyph, but I'm not taking any chances. We must engage the enemy before they cross onto Aquarian territory."

"In other words, you want to take the fight to them," was Cliff's simple observation.

"Correct," Nel answered with a nod of her head. "When Airyglyph and the Republic move again, we will hold them off at Aire Hills." Then, she turned to Dion. "Make sure the weapons arrive only by tomorrow. No Glyphian or Republican spy must get word of our plan beforehand."

"Yes, Ma'am."

"And how does Mirage fit into all this?" Fayt couldn't help but ask. The woman was a Klausian, and he remembered her mention she was the better fighter compared to Cliff… Was she heading into the fray as well?

"Just as we've discussed, right Cliff?" said Mirage with that mysterious smile of hers. Nel and Dion however, appeared just as confused as Fayt.

"Exactly. Ladies and gentleman, I give you Mirage Koas – our eyes and ears of the operation."

"And when did her majesty approve of this?" Nel interjected with a fierce scowl. She still didn't fully trust Mirage. That, and it felt slightly unnerving that someone else was taking over her old job.

"Bah! We're in a war, guys! There's no time for stupid argy-bargy."

"Argy-bargy?" Fayt repeated with an amused smirk. Cliff threw his arms in the air.

"Whatever. The point is, with Nel as high commander, we need someone behind enemy lines to cue us in." He indicated at Mirage with his thumb. "You can't afford to spare any soldiers, so she's our best bet."

"But, Cliff – " He held up his hand.

"Listen, you want to catch the enemy on their turf, but you don't know when that will be. We need someone on constant watch. Mirage will give us the 411 on enemy movements, and if things heat up, I pity the sad fry who'd dare go against her. Besides, she's a professional and can slip in and out without alerting the guards."

Nel blinked. "411…?"

"It's an expression."

"And how will we coordinate ourselves efficiently?" asked Dion, but shut his mouth immediately when Cliff threw something at him. He frantically caught it in his hands. It didn't take long for Nel and Fayt to receive a similar device each.

"Simple: we'll use these," was his answer. He quickly continued before Fayt could even think about launching into his UP3 lecture.

"They're communicators. Just fasten them onto your ear like so – he demonstrated – and press this button to switch them on, and the other button when you wish to talk. Speak normally, and tada: instant communication."

"Extraordinary," whispered Dion, marveling at the new 'Greeton technology' together with Nel. Fayt held the familiar device between his fingers, unsettled.

"But Cliff – we shouldn't. This violates – "

"Hey, if you haven't realized by now, the three of us have violated plenty already," he reasoned, expression grave. "We all got our missions: mine's to bring you back to our leader; yours is to rescue your father. And I stick to my missions. What about you?"

Four pairs of eyes turned to face Fayt and he tensed under the pressure. True, he did want to hurry and see his dad again… and standing around like this wasn't going to make the process any faster. But that would mean he'd be going against Roger's people; his family… He recalled the moment back at the Arias watchtower where Roger talked about Aquor and right now, the child's dream sounded increasingly impossible with the deaths of his kin looming over their heads.

But, dad or Roger?

Fayt shook his head vehemently. No, that wasn't even supposed to be a dilemma. Nel was right – certain sacrifices had to be made.

He made his choice.

"Fine. I'm in. What would you have me do?"

Nel straightened up, seemingly pleased with his answer.

"My soldiers and I will handle the ground troops. Dion's with artillery. I would like you and Cliff to break through the enemy's main defense – Vox and Malroy."

"Malroy…?" echoed Fayt uncertainly.

"That's right. He's the Defense Minister of the Sanmite Republic and Commander of the Sanmite Militia," Nel explained. "The mages and Winged cavalry get their orders directly from him, while Vox commands the Dragon Brigade. They're going for a full-scale aerial assault, so expect heavy fire from your front and above." She paused to shoot Fayt a pointed stare. "This is where we could really use your symbology."

He nodded his head. "Right."

But then, there came the next part, and probably the hardest of all.

"Oh, and Fayt?"

"Yeah?"

She held his stare, heart unwavering and mind fully made up.

"There's one last thing I need you to do."

It hurt.

The deep lull of slumber receded like the tide and restored sensation to every nerve, jolting him into consciousness and enveloping his entire body in a dull yet distinct ache. Every inch of him felt heavy, and his brain struggled to get his fingers moving, or any part of his body for that matter. It was like he had been reborn and was learning how things worked all over again. His ears flicked back-and-forth. There was an eerie silence to his surroundings, a split second of white noise piercing his eardrums, before everything settled and he could pick up the faint chirping of birds in the distance. Sunlight kissed his skin; scents rushed up his nostrils and left an overwhelming aftertaste on his tongue. A groan left his throat as he dared himself to lift his eyelids that had grown heavy with sleep, only to hiss and squeeze them shut at the blinding whiteness that attacked his senses.

Too bright.

He moved to bring an arm up to shield his eyes from the glare, but realized they were strapped down along with his ankles. However, his brain was still rather foggy to process the bigger picture. All he knew was that he couldn't move, and he needed someone to do it for him.

"Nrgh… Mama, turn off the sun will ya?" He couldn't bury his head under the pillow, so he settled for turning his face away instead.

Someone chuckled and he felt fingers run through his hair.

"You're awake," said a gentle voice laced with relief.

The Menodix's ear twitched in recognition. That wasn't his mama, and this definitely wasn't his home. Before he could fit a name to that pitch, he heard movement to his side and felt the mattress sink on his right. A strong arm wrapped around his head and someone leaned in to kiss his cheek and nuzzle against his ear affectionately. His heart raced and a pleasant tingle went through him. He knew that scent, recognized the man's touch, thrilled at the familiar pair of lips pressed against his own…

With a blissful sigh, Roger slowly opened his eyes to smile at the person leaning over him.

"F-Fayt…?" he breathed hoarsely, mentally grimacing. When was the last time he used his voice?

"Why are ya… When did ya get back?" and then his entire body cramped up when he tried to move. His body gave a sudden jerk, but something held him down and his head crashed back onto the pillow. He let out a soft moan of discomfort.

Restraints. Right.

Why did he even have those on again?

"Do ya mind?" he tugged at his bindings, eyes wide and pleading.

Fayt bit his lower lip and chanced a glance at the guard standing by the door. Roger's eyes followed him. Weird… why was there a guard in his bedroom? When Fayt turned back, the frown was gone and there was a wide smile on his face.

"Sure. Let me get those for you." He undid the boy's restraints, watching as the Menodix massaged his wrists and ankles to get the blood flowing again. "Sorry about that. We… uh… didn't want you running off."

"I don't think I sleep walk, Fayt," he laughed, sticking his tongue out playfully. "Ya oughta know this by now."

Fayt smiled in return, though it didn't quite reach his eyes.

Roger took in the view from his window and estimated that it was early morning, not too far from 9am thereabouts. The castle seemed rather quiet though – he wasn't able to pick up much hustle and bustle with his sensitive ears. Also, he couldn't smell Nel, and that big lummox wasn't around either… Roger felt slightly disconcerted. Where was everybody?

His gut stirred. Something didn't feel right.

"Hey, Fayt. What's – "

"What happened, Roger?" Fayt suddenly cut him off, tone urgent. Roger blinked at him curiously. Was it just him, or was the guy a little jumpy?

"I come rushing back and Dion tells me you went into a coma. Then the doctors couldn't do a thing and…" His jaw clenched as his fingers dug into the material of his pants. "I couldn't do a thing."

"Fayt…"

Roger sat up so that he could better look the swordsman in the eye. Reaching up, he cupped Fayt's cheek. The teen leaned into his touch, bringing his own hand up to grasp the child's. They laced their fingers together.

"Don't ya worry 'bout me," Roger assured him softly. "I'm a real man and I'm a lot tougher than I look."

"Still…" Fayt hesitated, allowing his concern to show. "Your whole body felt like it was on fire, and you were asleep for almost two days! No one could touch you. Don't you remember anything at all?"

Roger furrowed his brows as he fought to recall anything from the past 48 hours, but came up with nothing. It was pretty odd now that he thought about it. He couldn't even remember feeling any of the burning pain Fayt had described, or losing consciousness to begin with. In fact, there was this perpetual gap between the present moment and the hours following Fayt's departure to Kirlsa. He didn't know if he was exaggerating, but it felt as if he had his brain reset.

"Then… how did I get better?"

"I stayed with you." Fayt gazed deep into the boy's eyes, leaning in. "Every hour without leaving your side. Kept your body cool."

Roger shot him a playful smirk. "I thought ya said nobody could touch me?"

"Well, I'm not just anybody."

He giggled, "Show off."

They pulled away and Roger pushed back the covers to climb out of bed. But when Fayt stopped him almost anxiously, his suspicions on the swordsman's strange behavior from earlier returned full force. It showed from the frown on his face.

"Hey, Fayt, quit it. It's been two days and I really oughta get back ta the lab and help Dion – "

"That won't be necessary."

Roger tilted his head questionably, but Fayt refused to look him in the eye. Instead, the older male suddenly seemed to find the rumpled cotton blankets very interesting. Shadows obscured his eyes.

"W-Why not?" asked Roger.

"Dion's already completed two of the weapons. They're… enough."

It didn't take long for him to read between the lines.

"Airyglyph attacked again, didn't they?"

Fayt nodded his head. "They took Arias."

Roger gasped, visibly shaken by the news. Did that mean that Aquaria's military base was destroyed?

"Is… Is Albel leadin' 'em?"

Fayt shot to his feet so fast, it startled the poor Menodix. His expression was dark and dangerous, and his fists shook at his sides. It didn't take a genius to figure out that he was doing all he could to control his temper.

"That bastard is no longer your concern," he said icily.

"T-Then who's leadin' Airyglyph?" Roger pressed on, growing increasingly anxious.

"Duke Vox, Airyglyph's new wartime commander, and – he hesitated, biting the inside of his cheek – Minister Malroy, leader of the Sanmite Militia."

Roger felt his heart stop. The Sanmite Militia? Lucien's dad? No way, that couldn't be right. That would mean that his pops had agreed to – Impossible. The Sanmite Republic couldn't have agreed to join forces with Airyglyph of all people… right? A hesitant smile slowly crept across his lips as he chuckled in disbelief.

"Heh. You're lyin'."

But Fayt didn't seem to be in on the joke. Roger's smile disappeared and something within him snapped.

"You're lyin'!"

He screamed at the top of his voice, wailed and shrieked like a petulant child throwing a tantrum. Fayt tried to stop him, to calm him down, but the Menodix was incorrigible as he beat and clawed at his lover's arms whenever he tried to hold onto him. He continued to scream and shout incoherently, and when the guard by the door tried to intervene, Fayt quickly turned to shake his head at him, eyes narrowed and commanding.

Static crackled in his ear.

"Kid, stop screwing around. We're running out of time!"

Steeling himself, he surged forward, wrapped his arms around Roger and tackled the child onto the bed. Roger snarled and struggled against him, but Fayt was stronger and it wasn't long before he surrendered to the inevitable. Tired and mind still numb from shock, Roger allowed himself to be pulled into the older male's embrace, shaking and clinging onto him by instinct. Seeking warmth, security, and reassurance, because when it came down to it, Fayt always found a way to make things better. He always did… right?

"Puh-Please, Fayt… W-We gotta stop Aquaria! We hafta convince the queen to withdraw her troops and – he paused, realization dawning upon him – Nel… That's it! Nel'll know what ta do! Where's she? I hafta talk ta her!"

But instead of granting him any form of response, Fayt remained motionless and deathly silent. Urgency flooded his senses as a dawning horror settled over his heart. Fayt's strange and distant behavior; the absence of their gang; the guard at the door; his restraints… It was all intended.

The guard finally crossed the room and stopped behind where Fayt was seated. Roger gulped and gazed up at the Aquarian soldier fearfully. He inched away from his lover's hold, trembling. A quiet and helpless "Fayt?" passed his lips in a whisper.

"Fayt, just do it – "

Said teen touched his ear and cut the connection.

"… I'm sorry."

Then he surged forward, grasped Roger's wrists, and tugged the boy towards him in the most mind-blowing, body-burning kiss ever, devouring his mouth with his lips and tongue, ravenous and desperate. The humanoid tasted divine. Fayt attacked his intoxicating cavern mercilessly, greedily mapping out every sweet, addictive inch with his tongue as he committed it all to memory, purging the boy off his sins and innocence as he took it all in, quelling the flames of his guilt. But Roger felt neither love nor passion in Fayt's kiss, only an inherent despair. He fought against him, but Fayt held on stubbornly and he found himself giving in, helpless to his lover's ministrations. He would have moaned and responded in equal vigor if he didn't feel so betrayed.

And then Fayt's lips left his own as he felt someone grab him from behind and hoist him into their arms. The swordsman's fingers slipped away, hands suspended in mid-air while the guard carried the kicking and screaming Menodix away to the castle dungeons. Roger fought desperately, but to no avail, weaponless and physically weak after rousing from his comatose state.

"Fayt! – put me down ya big jerk! – Fayt!" he cried, eyes shining with unshed tears. "Ya can still talk some sense into 'em! That weapon will kill everyone! Don't do this! Ya promised!"

Fayt refused to turn around and face the sobbing boy, posture rigid and expression set in stone. As the guard carried Aquaria's new prisoner out of the bedroom, he could still hear Roger's cries echoing about the castle corridors. It was heartbreaking.

"Please! If ya don't stop them right now, my friends and family are gonna die! Please, Fayt!"

Fayt did his best to close his ears to the sound of the humanoid's voice, but he could never quite stem the guilt and pain he felt in his heart. Nel wasn't kidding when she said this last job was something only he could do, but just knowing that he was the cause of Roger's sorrow served to wound him further. He bowed his head and finally allowed the tears to fall. He would never see the Menodix again, and their last moment together had been immortalized through betrayal. Roger would never trust him again, but at least the boy would live to see another day.

We all got our missions.

A strong hand clasped his shoulder and he stiffened.

"You did the right thing, kid."

Fayt hurriedly wiped away his tears with the back of his hand and breathed deeply, composing himself.

"As long as he's safe, that's all that matters."

"You know you'll never see him again, right?"

Beautiful memories from days past flashed through his mind: him and Roger meeting for the first time and sharing that apple; the wide-eyed wonder in Roger's eyes when he showed the boy his school project; those hours spent together fixing said device; and watching the adorable Menodix fall asleep as he stroked his hair. He remembered Roger's sweet confession. Their first kiss. Their final moments in the palace baths. All the promises he wished he could keep...

"I know."

Cliff gave his shoulder a firm squeeze.

"It's time to go."

Author's note:

There's a poll up on my profile, so please pop by and vote for Roger's fate. Every vote counts!

This chapter took exceptionally long to write because of its heavily emotional content. I wanted to get everyone's feelings right, and with current developments, things can only get more dramatic from here on. I've been listening to Joe Hisaishi's "The Collapse of Laputa" on replay, and it really sets the mood for this point in the story. We're approaching the climax and soon, the end of Act One of this fanfic. That sounds long, doesn't it? For those of you who have enjoyed my story from the beginning and are still with me, I want to extend a special thanks to you. No story lives unless someone wants to listen, and I'm grateful for the support I've received in every little way, be it views or reviews. Thanks guys.