Chapter 25: His Forgotten Home

After having left Hien's manor, Claire was outside in the crisp air with Alisaie as they discussed what they should do with their free time while the others discussed politics. Or rather, Claire was listening as Alisaie discussed it.

"All right, for want of a better suggestion, what say you to a brief tour of the newly liberated Doma?" Alisaie finally offered after a few minutes of awkward silence, "I'd be interested to hear how the people are faring in their own words, and it's not as if we'll be missed here."

To be honest, that did sound fun and Claire wasn't interested in being made to wait around here with nothing to do. But as she nodded, Alisaie looked over her shoulder and added, "…Or will we?"

Claire looked to see where she was looking at, and to her disbelief, Asahi and Yugiri were coming towards them. Yugiri was wearing a rather guilty expression while Asahi was now wearing a rather large katana at his side that she knew he didn't have before.

"Claire," Yugiri called to her, "A moment, if you would."

"Ah, Yugiri," Alisaie asked as they both turned to look at her, "And…Asahi, was it? You have some business with Claire?"

"Business?" Asahi repeated politely, "No. Pleasure, my lady. I merely wished to exchange a few words with the famed slayer of gods and champion of Eorzea. It is truly an honor."

Claire didn't answer him as she felt his rather piercing eyes upon her. She wasn't sure what it was, but there was something in that gaze that send a slight shiver down her spin that she didn't like. Still, there was no trace of mockery or distain in his voice, so she gave him a polite nod in return.

"Such heartfelt admiration," Alisaie said doubtfully, every word carrying the weight of mistrust, "One could almost forget that you're an envoy of the Empire."

"Oh?" he questioned back, "Is that so strange? We may have stood on opposing sides in the past, but I see no contradiction in lauding the woman who would do battle with our common enemy." He looked back to Claire and added, "And lest you forget, this is my homeland. It would be remiss of me not to at least thank her for containing the threat posed by the Kojin's vile eikon. Now, if I may continue ─ as we speak, Lord Hien deliberates over my proposal, and I would take this time to see the land I once called home."

This took both her and Alisaie by surprise as he finished, "Though Lady Yugiri is certain to be a jovial escort, the excursion would be all the more enjoyable for your company ─ and safer besides."

Yugiri looked far from jovial at that, and Claire could see the silent plea in her eyes as she turned her gaze towards her—where Claire guessed right away why they came here looking for her.

"…The ambassador has the right of it," Yugiri said, sounding truly apologetic for making another request, "He is not like to come to harm with you at his side. Will you join us?"

More like she didn't want to be left alone with him. Claire's first instinct was to courteously refuse… but she also knew better than to do anything that could cause unnecessary trouble for them. The last thing she wanted to do was cause any chance for a peaceful resolution between Doma and the Empire to fail simply through rudeness.

Despite the misgivings in her heart, she nodded and answered, "It would be my pleasure."

If nothing else, she could keep a close watch on Asahi.

"In that case, I will join you as well," Alisaie offered, who seemed to be thinking along the same lines as she was. "There is naught else to do until Lord Hien has reached his decision, and I can think of no finer way to learn more about the current state of Doma."

Claire knew that it was just a convenient excuse for her to come along. She knew her well enough to know that she didn't trust Asahi any more than she did and she was going to judge him herself.

"It's settled, then," Asahi said cheerfully, who was either unware or ignoring the distrust in all three women's eyes. "The four of us shall make a brief excursion through Yanxia. Might we start at the town of Monzen? I would see what has become of Doma Castle."

"Very well. If you will follow me," Yugiri said and she guided them out of the Enclave and back to the river.

"Hey," Alisaie whispered to Claire as they dragged a little bit behind the other two, "What do you think about this guy? Do you think that he's sincere?"

"He certainly is a good actor if he's not," Claire admitted. She was not a diplomat. In battle, she knew that she was in her element and wasn't afraid to run in and fight off an army if she had to. However, she knew enough to know that Doma wasn't anywhere near self-sufficient yet and the peopler were struggling just to feed themselves.

In all honesty, she felt that with Doma struggling so greatly, if the Empire truly desired to try and retake it, Doma wouldn't be able to hold out for long. After twenty-five years of oppression, she found it just a little too convenient that only now someone would show up and speak words of peace.

Asahi was lying here about something, that much she was sure of… but at which part was the thing that she was struggling the most to try and figure out. Still, it wasn't like she could beat the truth out of him… this was all that they could do for the time being.

She remained on her best behavior as they crossed the One River and travelled further to the East towards the remains of Monzen. At the sight of it, Asahi let out a cry of shock and despair when he saw the burnt remains.

"Nay… Can this truly be Monzen, home to the cream of Doma's samurai?" Asahi asked aghast, "I had heard that Yotsuyu intended to send some few of our automatons here, but only by way of warning. It should not have come to this… Indeed, her savagery served only to incense the people and spur them to rise up in protest. It was folly to think such methods of governance could ever prove effective."

And yet, the Empire continued to use even worse methods to bring the people to heel. She knew not why he was so surprised by this, for surely he would know of the Empire's cruelty. Yet, was it possible that there were those in the Empire who were unware of just how far things were being carried out? She knew precious little of the lands within Ilsabard and she felt her curiosity being peeked at such a thought.

Asahi sighed out grimly and added, "The sooner we can begin to make amends for this senseless destruction the better. Securing supplies and support for the reconstruction effort should not prove difficult ─ once our nations are formally at peace, of course."

"…Yes, of course," Yugiri said carefully, "If you would have a better view of what remains of the castle, we must proceed through the ruins."

The four of them then turned and began to take a longer road that took them out of the risk of being targeted by the walking automatons and walked around the remains of Monzen as Asahi asked Yugiri what they were to do with these ruins.

"At present, we are focusing our efforts into rebuilding the Enclave and building up relations with the other nearby villages who escaped a similar fate," Yugiri confessed. "Namai being one of them. It is our hope that we will be able to clear out the creatures here and rebuild Monzen one day, but that is a day far off into the future."

"Fair enough, fair enough," Asahi nodded. "Like I said before, we shall be happy to provide all manner of support and supplies to make up for—ah… precious misunderstandings."

"Misunderstandings?" Claire heard Alisaie mutter darkly under her breath. "From what I learned, Yanxia was once rich in many minerals, ores, and plantlife before the invasion. The Empire stole most of it and sold it off to their capital while the people were forced to work with little to nothing. Of course he would want to give back supplies since they probably belong to Doma anyway."

Claire did not want to sound like a Garlean-hater, but she had to agree with what Alisaie said. Still, she remained silent even as they reached the broken bridge that led to the remains of Doma Castle. Looking up at the mostly crushed building surrounded that laid half-sunk in the river, she couldn't help but think how lucky they were that they had been able to escape that crumbling building with their lives.

"It is a travesty. A travesty. I remember the keep being so beautiful," Asahi said with an air of great anguish, "In the light of the setting sun, one would swear it was aflame…"

Well, that she could agree with. She remembered how she once stood here with Hien as he looked over the castle… it truly had been a work of art alone and she felt guilt inside her heart for her role in how it fell.

"It is indeed a doleful spectacle," Yugiri confirmed, "Mayhap we will rebuild it one day…when we have finished helping our people to rebuild their lives."

For now, Doma was inflicted with deep scars and wounds and would need much time to recover. Yet, she was hopeful that once Doma was on the road to recovery, she would be able to stand in that castle once more and look over the land with her own two eyes. She remembered how Hien once said to her that he felt that he could hold Doma within his hands simply by looking at it from the view at the top.

She would like to see that view… one day.

"Spoken like a true Popularis," Asahi told her, making it difficult to sound like it was supposed to be a compliment or not. Still, he did not seem to mean any ill by it as he added, "The needs of the people must of course come first. Speaking of whom, would you be opposed to my seeing how they live firsthand? The village of Namai is but a short journey from here, if I'm not mistaken."

"By river, yes," Yugiri confirmed, "If you will follow me, I will ready our boat."

She led them away from the destroyed keep, but Claire couldn't help but look back at the remains… wondering just how many more places she would be forced to leave behind in ruins the further along this path she walked. Along with the realization that she may never get a chance to see them rise up again.

Not in this lifetime, at least.

She sighed and cast it out of her mind as she walked back with the others, returning to their boat at the shore and sat beside Alisaie and opposite Asahi as Yugiri commanded the oar before they were sailing along the One River. It was quiet now, and she let her hand out of the boat and felt the water over her fingers as she dipped them in. It felt cold upon her skin but she enjoyed it greatly as they were carried along the canal.

"It truly is a beautiful place," Asahi spoke up, and it seemed that he was speaking to her, for when she looked up to see he was looking directly at her. "Even with the scars of war still clear, it heartens me to know that the land is still strong. I can still see the beauty that clings so powerfully. And it also heartens me to know that the fabled hero is more than just an unfeeling killer."

Claire's eyes narrowed as Alisaie folded her arms next to her as Asahi let out a chuckle and held up his hands.

"Please, do not take anything by what I said," he told them, "It is just that you should hear some of the stories that are told about you in Garlemald. One would think that some of our strongest warriors check under their beds in fright before going to sleep. You have become something like a boogeyman for our soldiers."

"I suppose that makes sense," Alisaie said, anger just buried below her calm demeanor, "But an unfeeling killer?"

"Well," Asahi shrugged, "One cannot helps but wonders that someone who has taken as many lives as you have, my friend, would be able to feel something after all that."

Her eyes narrowed as she turned her attention away, deciding not to say anything. Alisaie, on the other hand, did not seem to appreciate what he was implying and Claire could swear that she heard her growl, as if fighting the urge to strike him.

They remained quiet the rest of the trip across the river and through the Moon Gates until they came to a stop at the southern part of Yanxia and climbed out. They weren't too far from Namai and were just getting ready to begin the trek when they heard a terrified shout:

"Get back! I'm warning you!"

At once, they all jerked their heads up to the sound. But it was Asahi who cried out, "Someone's in trouble!"

Before they could stop him, he went running off in the direction of the yell, forcing the rest of them to follow in his wake. She sprinted on further, leaving Yugiri and Alisaie behind and almost ended up catching up to him when she saw what the cause of the distress was.

Standing upon the road was Azami, who was cowering and crying while Isse stood in front of her protectively as a group of Red Kojin were bearing down upon them. Just as she registered what was going on, Asahi charged up so that he stood between the Kojin and the two Domans, drawing his katana and narrowed his eyes as he kept the Kojin in his sights.

"Are you all right?" Asahi asked the two behind him, who were looking at him with astonishment.

"Aye…" Isse confirmed, his arms now holding Azami close as she ran up to guard the two of them, leaving Yugiri and Alisaie to catch up and formed a kind of shield around the two.

"What do they want with you?" Yugiri questioned them calmly, her daggers in her hands, and her eyes narrowed at the sight of the Kojin now glaring at them for standing in their way.

"Yugiri?" Isse gasped at their luck that someone came to their aid, "And you lot, too!? I ─ I don't know. We were returning from the enclave when they came at us."

There would be time to ask questions later. Claire had seen this enough times to know how this was going to end. Especially when the largest Kojin, wearing a large mask over his scaly head, slashed at the air with his staff threateningly. They weren't going to let them go without a fight.

"It seems they won't go quietly," Alisaie stated, also guessing that there was no other way out of this mess than to fight.

"And neither will we," Asahi added determinedly as the Kojin captain held up his staff and commanded to his brothers, "Kill them all!"

The Red Kojin charged as the others came to meet with them. Claire remained behind to guard Isse and Azami, but she was still the one holding her own against most of the Kojin—who seemed to have recognized her as the one who killed Susano. At least, that was the impression she got when they screamed at the sight of her and cursed her.

Azami began crying as her brother turned around wrapped his arms around her like a shield, "Don't worry Azami. I won't let them hurt you."

"I will not let you harm these innocents!" Asahi declared, taking Claire by surprise as she began to weave in and out of the many powerful punches and blades that the Kojin were throwing out. They were large and strong, but they seemed to have little skill in actual fighting so she wasn't the least bit taken aback by it. However, there were still a lot of them, and she had to make sure that their attention was directly upon her and away from Isse and Azami.

"I grow tired of these games," the captain shouted out, but she could hear the nervousness in his voice when he saw that they were holding their own against his fellows, "Where are our reinforcements!?"

"All this for two children?" Alisaie panted, and Claire suspected that despite her insistence that her injuries were healed, she was struggling to keep up with everyone after being bedridden for so long, "What do they even want with them!?"

Again, that was something they could ask at another time. They had to remain focused on the fight for now and then wonder about that once they were safe.

"They mean to overwhelm us. See to their reinforcements," Asahi cried, realizing that more Kojin were suddenly running towards them, "Quickly!"

"Now!" the Kojin captain shouted, "Aim for the younglings!"

"Stand in front of them!" Asahi commanded as he dashed in, ready to take on several more Kojin as he acted as the second guard for the other two, "We'll bear the brunt of it!"

"If they would call for reinforcements, then so shall we!" Yugiri called, "Quickly! Protect the children!"

She than began to chant, and before the Kojin realized what she was doing, she called in her doubles to help hold off the tide of violence that were threatening to overwhelm them. Claire blocked that all out as she focused her mind upon her task, able to think clearly, see the entire range of battle in her sights as she danced about, able to move from the fighting battles with ease as she held back the Kojin from getting too close to Isse and his sister. She barely paid any attention to the others, even when she heard them shouting out over the dim.

It was a straightforward battle, and she was able to bring down most of the Kojin on her own even despite how they kept calling in reinforcements several times… in the end, they weren't enough and once they had brought down enough of them, she was able to do battle with the captain… who had no choice but to fight without his minions backing him up.

"I must say, my lady," Asahi said as he passed by, taking another blow with his blade, "You truly are a marvel to watch."

She ignored him as she felt a surge of annoyance coming from who knows where and rammed her blade right through the Kojin's captain's thick hide, bringing him down.

Breathing hard, she wiped a thin beat of sweat from her brow just as Asahi brought the last Kojin down and sheathed his blade.

"That seems to be the last of them," Asahi panted, sounding tired before he turned around and went back to Isse and Azami. After looking over them both, he spotted how Azami was still shaking and hiding behind Isse, and he did something that took her aback in that he actually bent down and spoke directly to her.

"You have nothing to fear, child," Asahi told her, "You are safe now."

Hearing the kindness in his voice actually caused Claire to wonder if she judged him too harshly up till now. Azami, for one, seemed to take comfort from this and slowly stepped out from behind her brother, observing their dead attackers with wide eyes.

"Thank you, sir…" Azami whispered softly to him and Claire actually felt a small smile upon her lips at that.

Isse, who was very pale, but began to smile nervously, looked directly to her and said, "You saved us again." Claire opened her mouth, about to inform him that wasn't true, when he went on, "Thank you. If you're ever passing by our village, look us up. You'll always be welcome."

She wanted to say something to that, but found her voice oddly choked up at his sincere words and instead, just gave him a kind smile, which he returned. They stood and watched as the two left, heading back up the road to the direction of Namai and she felt a sigh of relief pass her lips as she watched them go.

"Thank goodness we arrived when we did," Asahi said suddenly, breaking the silence.

"Indeed," Alisaie agreed thoughtfully, with the danger now over, she began to wonder just what this was all about and added, "But what could have prompted the Red Kojin to stray so far from the Ruby Sea?"

Claire glance down at the Kojin and felt a frown appear as well. This was very strange… normally she would suspect that this was all about gathering victims to offer up as sacrifices for their gods. But the Kojin didn't need such things, did they? They had other means of summoning… in fact, she remembered that they summoned Susano quite on accident the first time. Surely they would have little wonder to how such summonings worked?

"I presume these are the sellswords hired by Yotsuyu?" Asahi asked as he examined the corpses, "If so, the answer is simple: desperation. Bereft of imperial employment, they seek other means to line their coinpurses. Another sad legacy of the Empire's mismanagement."

Kidnapping? It seemed strange to her when she thought about it. Just what good would they have for kidnapping people? Selling them off into the slave trade? That seemed the most likely reason. Still, why come all the way here for people? There were plenty back in the Ruby Sea? Such as from the village of Isari, or from passing ships who paid the Tithe. Surely there was no need to venture this far?

"The Empire to which you have sworn allegiance," Yugiri reminded him as she folded her arms.

"Must you always be so pointed?" Asahi questioned her tiredly, "If we are to bring about lasting change, we must look beyond narrow allegiances. You have every right to doubt me, but in time I hope you will come to see that we share a common goal. You and yours have fought fiercely to change the Empire from without, but if we are to end the cycle of conflict, the Empire must change from within. Am I wrong?"

That, she could understand. It didn't matter how many times they stood against the Empire, for unless they could see just how meaningless that it was for them to be constantly trading blows for no reason, then this cycle was never going to end.

"Not about that," she sighed, hating to admit that he was right, "True reform can only come from within."

She had seen it happen many times, of course. If a person truly desired to change, they had the ability to do so. She wanted to see that change and the Empire to reach out their hands in friendship and peace. But with all that has happened, they were asking a great deal for them to trust them… especially when the Empire had a long history of betrayal.

"I knew you would understand," Asahi said as he graced her with a smile, "You have witnessed such change firsthand, after all, during your time in Ishgard."

She raised her eyebrows at him, surprised that he knew that much. While well-aware that tales of her deeds had spread, he seemed to know an awful lot about her, including her struggles in Ishgard. She didn't like it.

"Dear me…" Asahi went on, as if he was just remembering another pressing engagement, "I had hoped to convey my views on our nations' shared hopes under more peaceable circumstances. Yet this regrettable little interlude did afford me a chance to see the famed hero of Eorzea in action, and few imperial soldiers can say that. At least, few who lived to tell the tale."

She wasn't the type to be taken in by a few sweet words and compliments, merely observing him as he dusted off his clothes as he added, "Well, after that little ordeal, I believe it may be time for us to return to the enclave."

"Return, my lord?" Alisaie questioned in surprise, "But what of Namai? You seemed so eager to observe the villagers going about their daily lives."

"To be frank, I still am," Asahi confessed, finally turning his gaze away from her and towards Alisaie, "But I rather doubt the good people of Namai would take kindly to the sight of a man in imperial uniform with blood still dripping from his blade. Even in your company, my presence would only prove a distraction."

If he felt that way, why suggest that they come to Namai in the first place? He could easily wipe the blood from his blade and they could go on like they planned. Why is he suddenly worried that he would not be welcomed when they already arrived?

"Fret not, however," Asahi added, "Thanks to the three of you, I have seen a great deal more than I otherwise would. And with any luck, Lord Hien will have finished considering my proposal by the time we return."

Claire wanted to point out the flaws of his logic, but more eager than she cared to admit to being rid of this, she agreed to return to the Enclave, glad that their little venture was over. And it wasn't just her either, she could see the relief in her comrades faces at the suggestion of returning.

Feeling tired, they returned to the docks and took the boat back the way that they came and Claire looked up to the sky as a light breeze swept over them. The sky was growing lighter, having turned from black to one of a lighter shade of violet. Morning was quickly approaching, and by the time that they felt the boat gently bump against the stone docks at the foot of the Enclave, the stars had already begun to flick out one by one.

As they climbed out, listening to the sounds of the Doman citizens having been up all night, hard at work with whatever projects they had, echoing about them. Yugiri led them until they were just outside the manor and she turned back to Claire.

"Thank you again for agreeing to join me. If not for your aid, the Kojin may well have overwhelmed us," Yugiri said to her in a quiet tone, so that Asahi didn't overhear them, "Pray go on ahead. Lord Hien is expecting you. I will remain without and keep watch over our guest."

Claire nodded and gave her a gracious smile, which Yugiri seemed too happy to return before she left with Asahi, probably to bring him back to his guard and reassure them that all was well.

The two of them watched them go before Alisaie said, sounding tired, "Well, we had best not keep him waiting."

"Are you well, by the way?" Claire asked her. "You seemed to be struggling back there?"

"What? How dare you!" Alisaie said with her head held up high. "I've never felt better."

Claire only smiled back, recognizing that look all too well. That same stubbornness that she came to love so greatly was in her brother as well and she knew that she was lying.

"We should make time to do something," Claire offered, "Just the two of us."

Alisaie was startled by the suggestion and turned back to her as she questioned, "Really?"

Claire nodded and added, "Since our little outing was ruined earlier. It may be fun if we have something to do later. You can tell me all manner of embarrassing stories about Alphinaud, if you like?"

At that, Alisaie started to laugh.

"Oh, I would love that!" she said, "Alright, you have a deal. It would be good for me to spend some time around someone who isn't going to be worrying over me every second of the day. Besides, it's been too long since it's just been the two of us doing something fun together. You are on. But first, let's head back and see what they had come up with."

Claire nodded, looking forward to another day of enjoyment, and having Alisaie here would be an interesting change.

At least until Alisaie added, "And it would be an excellent chance for me to spend some time with my future sister."

Claire paused at that as she looked back as Alisaie gave her a knowing grin.

"I saw you kiss my brother earlier," she confessed with a grin, "That was rather bold of you to do so with us all there?"

Claire was suddenly reminded of how she walked right out of the ocean and kissed Alphinaud upon the shores of Isari and she let out an embarrassed chuckle and felt a slight burn across her cheeks.

"What's this? Are you blushing?" Alisaie gasped excitedly, "I did not think that was possible!"

"Be quiet," Claire smiled back with a wave as she stepped up to the manor, leaving Alisaie to follow with a big grin.

At first glance, it appeared that nothing had changed since they first left. Alphinaud was still there with the others as they spoke in hush voices. When the two of them entered, they turned their attention towards them, and she was satisfyingly surprised to see that there was an air of sudden cheerfulness there. It seemed that their discussions may have been more successful than they thought.

"Welcome back, my friend," Hien said, greeting her like a member of the family, "Yugiri tells me you accompanied her and Asahi on a tour of Yanxia. I had hoped you might take the opportunity to recover from your exertions at Sakazuki… But I gather your time was well spent. Until the ambassador affords Yugiri a chance to make a full report, however, I must rely on you to supply the details. So please ─ tell us how it all unfolded."

Alisaie seemed guarded about what happened, so Claire did that for her, calmly explaining their little adventure out into Yanxia, and everything leading up to the attack by the Red Kojin.

"The Red Kojin? Here?" Alphinaud questioned worriedly when she finished before he looked over to Hien, asking at once, "Have there been any other such incidents since the liberation?"

"Only one, that I am aware of," Hien stated truthfully, "If they are planning some new venture here in Yanxia, we will need to increase patrols. In any event, I am indebted to you for fighting them off. But tell me ─ and don't be modest ─ was Asahi truly the first to leap to the youngsters' aid?"

"He was," Alisaie spoke up at last, "I was quick to doubt him when we first met, but his desire to save them seemed quite genuine. It's possible he truly believes what he's saying."

That seemed to comfort Hien, but his gaze turned back to Claire, doubt still there before he asked her, "In the time I've known you, you have always been an excellent judge of character. What do you make of the ambassador?"

Claire felt a little embarrassed that he thought so highly of her, but that still left her struggling to come up with an answer. In all honesty, she wanted to believe that Asahi was a good man… he had yet to give her any real reason to believe otherwise. Yet…?

"I still don't think he can be trusted," she confessed. She felt guilty for saying such things, but she had learned to survive by trusting her instincts and right now they were all but screaming at her that there was something very wrong here. The Empire suddenly approaching with a hand of peace? Asahi's sudden change of mind about Namai? That uneasy feeling that there was some sort of lie sprinkled through his words? The way those eyes seemed to be staring intently at her whenever his gaze found hers?

In all honesty, she could not claim that she trusted him yet. She only hoped that he would prove her wrong.

Hien nodded, and it seemed that she wasn't the only one who still had doubts about Asahi's intentions, and that made her feel a little better.

"Then the question of what his true intention may be remains," he said, "Regardless of his aim, I am resigned to playing his game. For now, at least."

"Well, forswearing summoning should be simple enough, considering you never dabbled in it in the first place ─ which just leaves the somewhat thornier question of how to police the Red Kojin," Alisaie questioned dubiously as the idea of being able to keep watch over the Red Kojin in addition to rebuilding the Enclave.

But it seemed that they already thought of a solution to that as well.

"It was with that very question in mind that I sought Alphinaud's counsel," Hien added graciously, "Thanks to his knowledge of the eikons and the rituals used to invoke them, I believe we've identified a workable solution."

Truly? Claire was deeply interested in this.

"As you will recall, Susano was summoned forth using the power of relics locked away in the Kojin's treasure vault on the Isle of Zekki," Alphinaud explained, a faint note of pride allowed to slip through, "Though said relics remain there to this day, it is all but certain that the act of summoning exhausted their stores of aether making subsequent summonings impossible. Assuming that is the case, preventing the primal's return rests on denying the Red Kojin the means to amass new stores of aether, either via the acquisition of crystals or the relics they are wont to collect."

"For this, I plan to enlist the aid of our friends the Blue Kojin," Hien added, "Since Doma's liberation, we have forged closer bonds with Bunchin and his people, and with their support, I am quite confident we can keep the Red from obtaining what they require to call upon this Susano."

Well, that solved part of their problem. Prisoner exchange or no, the idea that they may not have to worry about the Lord of Revel again for the immediate future was enough to bring a sense of relief to her.

"And what of the prisoners?" Alisaie questioned.

"They will be exchanged as agreed, and I will give full credit to Asahi for the success of the transaction," Hien explained, "If there is aught we can do to help the Populares garner favor, I mean to see it done. But first, I have some unfinished business to attend to. Would you all come with me?"

"Yes, of course, but…what manner of business?" Alisaie questioned, surprised by the sudden change of subject.

"A past mistake which I would see put right," Hien said, his good mood fading almost as if one had wiped it blank and she felt a sudden sense of foreboding in the pit of her stomach as he finished, "One which has weighed heavy on my mind…"

He led them from the hall, heading further into the manor where the only sounds were of their footsteps upon the wood and the sweet smell of incense burning from some nearby burners that she enjoyed. Hien was silent the whole time as he led them through a long hallway to a spare room. When he opened it, Claire only saw a handful of furniture—but the few that were there were beautifully designed and fit for the home of a young lord.

But what drew her gaze was seeing both Gosetsu and Yotsuyu sitting upon the floor, with the latter happily eating some dango and not really paying attention to the rest of them. They looked to her first in surprise before looking up to Hien, who gazed back with a grim look.

"I had her brought here in secret while the three of you kept our guest company," Hien informed them quietly. He then shocked them all when he drew his blade and pointed it at Yotsuyu's neck, scaring her into dropping her dango and looked up with wide eyes as he glared coldly down at her.

"The world has not been kind to you, it is true," he admitted slowly, "But that does not excuse your sins. You should be at the bottom of the river."

Was he going to execute her? Right here and now? Claire opened her mouth, about to object, already coming up with the excuse that Asahi may take this as an answer if they killed her. No matter what their relationship was, they were still siblings. But more than that, Claire could see the fear in Yotsuyu's eyes as she stared up at Hien and she was acting instinctively.

"Yet here you are, the living, breathing proof of my failure. A failure for which I would now make amends," Hien growled out, not betraying a hint of mercy there.

"What did I do? I don't remember," Yotsuyu asked with a squeak, scared and confused, "Was it really so terrible? Tell me, please! What did I do!?"

Hearing her words there… Claire fully came to accept that she was telling the truth. She was telling the truth in that she didn't understand why she was in this position. She doubted that anyone could stick to their story after having a blade at their throat… not only that, she could hear the true sincerity in her words. Something that her brother seemed to lack.

Claire reached out a hand, ready to stop Hien, but it was Gosetsu, who was looking at the floor with his hands curled up into fists upon his lap, who spoke up.

"You speak of sins, my lord, but at whose feet do those sins lie?" Gosetsu asked, and they all looked to him, whose face was clouded over with a great air of sadness as he went on, only vaguely, "With the soldiers who committed the crimes, or those who commanded them to do so?"

That was the age-old question, was it not? Did the soldiers deserve to be punished for their sins simply because they carried out their orders like they were supposed to? Or did the blame lie wholly upon those who ordered them to do so. She would not lie in that she wondered that very same question many times during her time spent on the battlefield.

But when he gave his own belief to this difficult riddle, she felt herself freeze at his words.

"With both, I would say, for all have a conscience, and all must choose," he said as he looked over to Yotsuyu, who trembled where she sat upon her mat, "But with no memory of who she is or what she has done, what sin remains to be cleansed?"

All have a conscience, and all must choose.

If that was true, then did she always have a choice? What about those who came at her with murder in their eyes? Those whom she knew were going to kill her if she didn't fight back? Didn't they have a choice not to fight? What of those who were forced to commit such crimes only to be left standing while listening to the dying screams echoing over and over inside their minds?

For every time she closed her eyes at night, she could hear those same screams crying out… see their eyes glaring accusingly at her. She reached up to her chest and felt her heart as if the hands of all that she had killed reach out and squeeze it… as if hoping to take revenge for their lives having been cut short. But was she truly the one at fault? Was it theirs for charging in when they knew that they would most likely die? Or was it those who ordered them to give their lives for their own purposes?

She didn't know anymore.

She just wasn't sure what was right any longer.

Hien, meanwhile, turned his gaze back to Gosetsu and asked calmly, "You ask that I show mercy?"

"I ask why the heavens saw fit to deny me my rest," Gosetsu said carefully, looking back to the floor, silently asking for Hien to think it over for himself rather than giving him an answer, "Why Yotsuyu was spared not only death but the bitter memories of her life."

Hien gazed long and hard at him before he understood the answer that Gosetsu was reluctant to say, "You truly think it the will of the kami…"

Claire looked over at Gosetsu, and she couldn't ever remember seeing him look as tired and sad than he did at that moment. She couldn't help but wonder just what kind of guilt and pain was going through him at that moment for him to have such a melancholy gaze in those eyes.

Hien didn't respond to that at first as he looked over him. But then, to her relief, she watched as he slowly sheathed his blade, the ringing steel falling silent the second that it was back in its place, leaving Yotsuyu to continue gazing up at him with scared eyes before lowering her head as if afraid of misbehaving as he folded his arms, speaking directly to Gosetsu this time.

"If so, her life is not mine to take. It is yours to safeguard," he decided upon at last. He turned to look back at Yotsuyu and added, "Come the hour of the exchange, if her memories have not returned, she may remain here in Doma to live out her days as Tsuyu. But if they do, the Garleans shall have their viceroy. Though the people will protest, they will come to accept my decision when they have been reunited with their loved ones."

Claire sighed in relief as Gosetsu closed his eyes in understanding and said gratefully, "Thank you, my lord."

She wasn't sure if she believed in something like the Will of the Kami… but in either case, whether it was their will or not, she felt that they made the right choice. She felt that if they killed Tsuyu here without warning… such a death would give her more nightmares.

"Now, then," Hien said, "I believe we have kept our guest waiting long enough."

They left Gosetsu to continue looking after Tsuyu as the rest of them followed Hien out of the room. But as they left, with the twins walking on ahead of them, Hien held back as he turned to her.

"Did Gosetsu not seem strange to you? His sympathy for Yotsuyu apart, I mean," he asked her.

Of course he would notice it. Yes, there was something very strange with how Gosetsu was acting at that moment. She did not know him nearly as long as Hien had, but the Gosetsu she first met, and the one that she knew now, were different people. She supposed that it was to be expected with all that had happened. But it seemed to her that there was some part of Gosetsu that seemed… almost to be missing. Like there was something that weighed heavily upon his heart and he did not wish to share it with the rest of them.

She suspected it when she saw him on his knees back on the Ruby Sea, but it was Hien who came out and said it.

"I know his powers of endurance only too well, but after all he has suffered, even he should not be on his feet," he stated, "He puts on a brave face for our sakes, but it would not surprise me if he lacked the strength to raise his blade."

That seemed the most likely situation to her. Especially with the wounds he received back when the Keep collapsed and all that he suffered through up till this point. Whether it was something permanent or not was something she did not know. But in either case… while she felt saddened at the news that Gosetsu may no longer be able to fight… she could not help but feel slightly… envious of him as well.

"…Though I suppose if he and Yotsuyu are to enjoy a life of peace and quiet, he will have little use for it," Hien decided, "It falls to us to shape that future. One in which he need never again set foot on the battlefield."

He then gave her a smile, which she returned, glad to see that he was satisfied with the outcome. After all the pain that they had been through, she felt glad to hear that they had a chance to enjoy the rest of their lives in peace. She only hoped that they would be allowed the chance.

They returned to the meeting hall and sat back in their places before Hien ordered a serving girl to bring in their guests. She quickly returned with Asahi and his guards, who settled themselves upon the floor in front of them as they did earlier and waited patiently for Hien to give them his answer.

"My apologies," Hien stated, "Our deliberations took longer than expected."

"Think nothing of it," Asahi told him, "The time afforded me the opportunity to go on a rather rousing excursion through Yanxia. You have reached a decision, then?"

Hien nodded before speaking in a way that reminded her of Alphinaud and she wondered just how much advice that the young lord took from him during their time away.

"We are willing to cooperate with you in combating the eikon threat, and also in the exchange of prisoners," Hien said carefully before adding, "Assuming you accept our conditions, of course."

Asahi cocked an eyebrows as Hien explained, "As you know, your sister is in our care. Due to certain complications, however, we are hesitant to release her into your custody."

"Complications?" Asahi repeated slowly.

"She was inside Doma Castle when it collapsed," Hien informed him at last, "Though she survived, she remembers nothing of her past life ─ not even her name. To clarify, she is in our care not as a prisoner, but as a vulnerable citizen of Doma."

Claire observed Asahi's expression at those words. There was certainly surprise and disappointment written there—as was to be expected… but also a hint of something that she wasn't sure to make of… annoyance?

"Are you saying you refuse to release her?" Asahi asked them with a slightly sharp edge to his otherwise calm tone.

"Not at all," Hien reassured him, "If her memory returns before the appointed hour."

"And if not, what exactly…?" Asahi pressed on, "You will accommodate her here in Doma?"

"Well, I sincerely doubt she will be of any great strategic value to the Empire," Hien informed him with a shrug, "She spends her days daydreaming of dango."

"Dango…?" Asahi repeated in surprise before shaking his head and lowering it as he sighed, "…How dreadful."

Maybe she had misunderstood the look before, he seemed genuinely upset by this news. But he quickly regained his composure as he looked back up.

"Very well. In light of our recent…misstep in Sakazuki, it seems only fair that I show you the same understanding you have shown us," Asahi decided upon, "…Though I do have one, small request. Regardless of Yotsuyu's value to the Empire, she is yet my sister. Before I leave, might you permit me to speak with her in private?"

Probably to make sure that they were speaking the truth to him. But she saw no reason why they should refuse him… it was just that she feared that by seeing his face may cause… some of the more unpleasant memories to resurface if she was left alone with him too long.

But Hien nodded in understanding and told him with a smile, "Of course. Perhaps you could even bring her a plate of dango. She would be most pleased." He looked to Yugiri and added, "Yugiri will see you to her chambers."

Yugiri agreed and rose to her feet, walking around to Asahi—who also stood up and bowed to Hien—before he followed after her from the room. They all waited in silence for them to return… and soon enough, Gosetsu joined them in the hall, having explained that Yugiri was standing outside the room as a guard for them.

No one said a word for quite a long while after that as they waited.

"Forgive me, my lord, but…has he not been gone overlong?" Gosetsu spoke up anxiously at one point, "Perhaps I should ─"

"Calm yourself, Gosetsu. I understand your concern, but we have to wait," Hien told him, "He deserves that much."

But they didn't need to worry about waiting for much longer. Yugiri soon reappeared with Asahi and Tsuyu right behind her.

"I am sorry to have kept you all waiting. Thank you for your understanding," Asahi said gratefully, "Long did I dream of this reunion, but never did I imagine it would be so joyless. A part of me hoped your stories of her condition were just that. But alas, it is as you say."

"Tsuyu… Do you remember anything of this man? Anything at all?" Gosetsu suddenly asked her.

"I… No," Tsuyu said slowly before shaking her head innocently.

"I am a stranger to her. That much was clear to me from a single look," Asahi confirmed, "I leave her in your care."

"As you wish," Hien said, with the matter put to rest.

"Now, if you will excuse me, my superiors are long overdue a report. They will be elated to hear of our agreement, of that I have no doubt," Asahi said, now sounding a little more upbeat, "As for the exchange itself, once I have obtained the relevant permissions, I will arrange for your people to be relieved of their various duties, and sent here to Yanxia. This will take time, of course…"

"Of course," Hien agreed with a nod, having already been expecting this, "You may rest assured your soldiers will be well cared for until your return. We will also begin taking steps to better counter the threat of the Kojin and their eikon. Before you take your leave ─ there is one other matter… I am informed it was you who took the lead in rescuing two young Domans from a band of Kojin sellswords. I have not yet had the time to thank you properly."

"Please, there is no need to thank me," Asahi said with a grin, "I only did what anyone would do under the circumstances. Fortunately, I was in good company at the time."

Claire could not help but notice how his eyes drifted towards her at that moment, but before she could think too much about it, he finished, "The blight of the Red Kojin is of the Empire's making. Were it not for our transgressions, those children would not have needed saving. The people of Doma have suffered enough, my lord. And I promise to do all in my power to spare them further pain, be it at the hands of the Kojin, or indeed the Empire."

Claire ran a finger over the scar upon her chest as she remembered the same kind of pain that he spoke of. She wasn't sure what to think of Asahi… he seemed genuine enough and she wanted nothing more than to believe that he was honest. Yet… what was that unease she felt? There was something in his words that was a lie but which part?

"I pray the Emperor will see things as you do," Hien said graciously, knocking her out of her thoughts, "There may yet be hope for us all."

And with that, their meeting had officially ended. Asahi bowed to them once more before saying to Tsuyu, "Until we meet again."

Asahi was escorted out of the hall with his guards before Hien ordered Gosetsu to watch over Tsuyu while the rest of them were to see Asahi out. Gosetsu agreed without complaint, further causing Claire to believe that his wounds would not allow him to fight any longer, before he left the room with Tsuyu.

The rest of them left with Hien, heading back towards the place where they first met just outside Catrum Fluminis, where the ambassador's airship was still waiting for them.

"I wish you a safe journey," Hien said to him kindly as they met at the water's edge, just like how they did before.

"This has been a most enjoyable visit. I look forward to our next meeting," Asahi said before turning his attention to the Garlean on his right and added, "Maxima, would you take the others and see that all is ready for our departure?"

Asahi's guards both saluted as they left, heading back towards the shuttle and ready to get it ready to go while Asahi turned back towards them.

"I simply cannot leave without first giving thanks to the Warrior of Light for accompanying me through Yanxia," Asahi said and he looked over to her. She agreed and came towards him as the others focused on the shuttle with curiosity when she stood in front of him. Asahi drew her aside and she saw how his head was lowered… before she realized that he was checking to make sure that Hien and the others weren't listening in. that was when he slowly raised his head to her and she blinked when she saw that the pleasant expression he held up until now melted away so that it was replaced with a face that was twisted with rage.

"Mark me, savior of the savages," he warned with such savagery in his voice that he wished for her a painful death, "There will be a reckoning."

Her mouth fell open before the familiar pain wracked her skull and she closed her eyes tightly as the Echo took her on another journey.

She was suddenly crouched down behind some boulders and ruined buildings as she tried to catch her breath. Anger and fear raging inside her as she wondered just why she was ordered to come here. What were these savage people thinking? Surely they were aware that against the might of the Empire, they stood no chance? She felt a deep cut in her side burn as her companion panted for air next to her before the sounds of footsteps caused her head to jerk up.

Standing there was a samurai of the Liberation Front, along with a group of other fighters standing right behind him.

"You've nowhere left to run, traitor!" the samurai yelled at them.

"Ignorant savages," her voice cried out, but someone else's voice spoke instead of her own, fear sinking in as she came to believe that she was truly going to die at this moment, "Killing us will avail you naught. For every imperial you cut down, a thousand more will come. Abandon this foolish endeavor and surrender. You may yet serve our righteous cause."

But those words only caused a flash of fury to surge in the Domans eyes as they drew their weapons.

"How dare you speak of righteousness! You who forsook kith and kin to serve conquerors!" the samurai yelled in outrage, "Be glad I grant you this mercy."

The samurai moved in, ready to cut him down, but as she looked away, awaiting the pain of death to come…?

"AHHHHH!"

The scream caused her head to jerk up and she stared as a great burst of wind and power came soaring in and knocked the Domans down. Breathing hard she looked to see where it had come from, and that was when a tall, imposing figure appeared through the dust. A man of the Empire, dressed in the finest of armor, marching forward with a stride that seemed to command that all around him turn their gaze to him.

His movements were so powerful and graceful that she could not help but stare at him in awe, causing her heart to beat out of time. She actually trembled at what she saw as the Liberation Front got back to their feet.

"Reinforcements? …No ─ just one," the samurai yelled, "Cut him down!"

The soldier barely even spared them a glance as he single-handedly killed all the Doman samurai and shinobi with a single stroke… the bodies hitting the ground long after they were dead and remained still. Her eyes widened as she turned her gaze back to this seemingly perfect warrior toss his gunblade aside and strolled through the carnage, heading towards the same blade that the samurai held mere moments before.

Slowly, she got back to her feet and staggered closer to him as he pulled the katana from out of the ground and admired it.

"Thank you. Thank you, sir!" she panted once more with a voice that was not her own.

"This one is… promising," the warrior said, barely glancing at her as he handled the blade with ease before asking her in a disinterested way, "Who remains to offer us resistance?"

"A…a host of rebels led by Lord Kaien hold the enclave across the river," she spoke immediately, wanting to be of service.

"Lord Kaien," the dark warrior repeated slowly.

"The king of ─ th-the former king of Doma, sir," she explained, "They say he is one of the greatest swordsmen alive."

She watched as he slowly turned and began to head down the road, heading towards the enclave and she distinctively heard him whisper as he passed, "Is that what they say?"

He spoke with a slight chuckle, as if he was fascinated by such a claim and wished to see it for himself.

She felt him pass her, barely coming up to his waist as he passed and she could only watch on with her heart continuing to beat with a similar kind of fascination.

"Who… was that…?" she whispered before her wounded comrade gazed at her with shock in his voice that she did not already know.

"Surely you jest?" the wounded Imperial questioned, holding his broken arm, "That was Zenos yae Galvus, Legatus of the XIIth ─ the crown bloody prince! I'd heard he was strong, but that…that was frightening."

Zenos? The name forever sealed upon her heart as she looked back, watching him leave them behind and blood began to race through her veins as she whispered in reverence, "That was… Lord Zenos…?"

With a great deal of pain and effort, Claire forced herself to come back to reality when she felt Asahi's feelings for Zenos slip through. Just the thought that she was made to experience such feelings for someone like Zenos was enough to make her sick to her stomach.

She shook her head hard as she opened her eyes, only to find herself back in the present, with Asahi still snarling furiously at her.

"Everything you are ─ your power, even your face ─ it vexes me," he spat, still speaking quietly so that the others could not hear him.

For that brief moment, she understood his current feelings perfectly. For seeing that memory… experiencing his feelings towards one who was more monster than man…? To cause her to believe, even for a moment, that he truly did care about his own people and homeland, only for him to reveal his true colors caused such a fury to rise up within her that it threatened to explode out of her like the Hell's Lid. Her anger so great that she had to clench her hands tightly to keep herself from striking at him for his stupidity for choosing to follow after someone like Zenos.

But he could see her anger and his expression return to that of smooth pleasantness, only now she could see how false it was, and it only made her fury grow.

"Go on," he taunted with a hushed whisper, daring to come closer to her, "Lash out like the beast you are. At an emissary. And jeopardize the newfound peace between Doma and the Empire."

If he was trying to taunt her into striking and ruining the promise of peace, he was sorely mistaken. She was angry, but she could control her temper and held back, no matter how strong the urge was. He believed her to be a savage? What did that make someone like him, then? She merely glared back, and felt a sudden surge of pleasure when she saw the frustration in his face when he realized that she wasn't taking his bait.

"My lord was destined to lead us unto a glorious new age. Your light is nothing to his radiance," he spat and she was visited by an urge to inform him that this 'glorious new age' included him becoming a primal and willing to destroy everything for his own entertainment. She doubted that he would be saying such things if he had seen his 'masters' true intentions.

"I will cherish this moment ─ lock it away within my heart ─ until the day we meet again," Asahi warned before he finally drew away, leaving without a backwards glance. Claire remained where she stood as she watched him enter the shuttle and return to the airship. The others seemed to be in a good mood, but it was for a very different kind of enjoyment she got when she watched the large airship slowly turnabout in the air and leave, heading through the clouds even as the early hours of dawn began to creep over the mountains.

She looked down, continuing to think about his words as she felt a bitter disappointment inside her for believing that he could be trusted, even for a moment.

"You look troubled, my friend," Hien's voice said and she looked up to see them all looking at her, "Was it something he said?"

She hated to be the one to do this, but they needed to know. So, she quietly explained the threat that he had made to her, as well as the vision that she just had about him all but worshiping Zenos. They stared in horror, realizing, too-late, that they may have made a big mistake in making a deal with someone like that.

"Of all the memories to witness," Alisaie gasped.

"I had my doubts about him, but I would never have guessed he was a disciple of Zenos," Yugiri said in horror, turning back to Hien and adding with urgency, "My lord ─"

"Calm yourself, Yugiri," Hien said, his expression having not changed the entire time that Claire spoke, and so it was hard to guess just what it was that he was feeling at that moment, "I set no store by him or his enlightened brethren. But if by treating with them there is even the faintest hope we might secure the return of our conscripted brothers and sisters, I must play this game. After the way I risked their lives in the rebellion, I owe them that much."

"My lord, you bear no blame for their fate," Yugiri said sadly.

"If not blame then responsibility," he countered with self-anger slipping through, "They were prisoners and still I chose to fight, knowing they could be executed in retaliation. But now we have a chance to bring them home. If it means bargaining with a monster, so be it."

That is, assuming, that they intended to follow through with their end of the bargain. Now that they knew the truth, as well as his hatred for her, she doubted that this 'meeting of peace' will end in any other way than by violence.

"My lord…" Yugiri sighed and looked down, clearly not happy about this, but unable to find any way to counter that argument.

"Besides, I think he likes me," he pointed out, "Which is more than some can say."

Did he really just say that? She rolled her eyes, silently thinking to herself that it was easy for him to say such things since those threats weren't directed towards him. But it was clear to her now that Asahi held no love or loyalty towards his own homeland. Meaning that he was very much at risk here as well as his people.

"It makes no sense," Alisaie stated suddenly, getting their attention, "Why would he bother keeping up the pretense for so long, only to drop it right before the very end?"

"Perhaps he no longer thought it necessary, having secured Doma's cooperation in the prisoner exchange," Alphinaud suggested, and she found his gaze meeting hers with anxiety clearly there.

"If he truly is a disciple of Zenos, 'tis possible emotions simply got the better of him," Hien also added suddenly, "Remaining calm around the man who slew his lord will have taken its toll."

That would explain much, as well as the feeling of unease she picked up whenever she felt his eyes upon her.

"Whatever the explanation, now is not the time for hasty reprisals. We shall proceed as planned," Hien decided, "The Red Kojin must be placed under surveillance and the Garlean prisoners made ready for the exchange…But you need not concern yourself with the details. Leave the affairs of Doma to us. When the hour of the exchange draws near, we will call for you."

"I should certainly hope so," Alphinaud said, his voice suddenly business, "Whatever the Empire's true intent, we would be on hand to play our part, either to defend Doma, or to help usher in a lasting peace. I had thought we might use this time to return to Eorzea, but given the volatility of the situation, mayhap it would be best if we remained in Kugane."

"Agreed," Alisaie agreed, "Between Yotsuyu's amnesia and Asahi's dubious agenda, I'd say we have ample reason to remain in the neighborhood. If anything should happen ─ anything at all ─ you must send for us at once."

"Oh, I will," Hien promised, "On that you have my word. Charting a path through this sea of troubles promises to be difficult enough. I am not so proud as to attempt the feat alone."

(And so we are at the end of 4.2… at long last. And we just recently received our first bit of news for the patch of 4.4! I'll be trying my best to make sure that I'm caught up by that point, but I hope that you don't mind another bonus chapter. As is with tradition, I do add in a special chapter at the end of all patches, and I have something very special planned for the next chapter. Prepare for another sweet moment between our little lovebirds and just what it is that they talk about. It should be up in a few days and hope you will look forward to it.)