A/N: Hey guys! I bring to you all the new chapter to this story. I'm finally completed with "A Different Path" so I can now fully concentrate on this story alone. While I do have another story lined-up, I plan to not upload that story until I've established what I want to do with it.
Now then, time to respond to you awesome reviewers

Grayjack72: Yup! As a matter of fact, a lot of stuff happens in this chapter. I hope you will enjoy what's about to happen

F-ckthesystem125: Yup! There's a lot of stuff happening in this chapter and the originally cast of ToX is finally about to reunite!
-Ah yes I'm aware that the fractured dimension bit was rather short. When I was planning it, it seemed like it would be rather long but when it came down to writing, it lasted a short while because Karla went straight to the point

Milonar: Yup! There are actually two wars now. Auj Oule is preparing for war against Rashugal and the civil war between Rashugal and Sharilton!
-I hope you will enjoy this chapter!

Ultimabuster92: It's okay, I always enjoy anything you have to say about the chapter. It makes me happy to see how much thought you put into the chapter :)
-Yup! I'm glad you like the fact that Cline is happy. As a matter of fact, while him being alive won't change any major plot (from what I've planned), but he does bring significant changes. For one, because he's still alive, the civil war in Rashugal actually does happen and Rowen never joined the party.
-Ah yes. Since Elize didn't go off with the party that early like in the game, Elize was allwoed to develop her relationship with Jiao. Not just Jiao but with Presa even :D
-Ah yes, Steiner Mel Marta. He will have a role to play in the story
-Yeah basically in this short arc, there are 4 factions. Gaius with Auj Oule, Nachtigal's side, Rowen & Gilland and finally Jude/Ludger's group XD And best part is, they're all about to clash!
-Ah well I try to highlight her because the fact is, she's now in the ToX storyline. Need to remind the readers that she's in the story just in case, hehe

Noel: Wow that's a lot of reviews from you xD Really though, thanks for giving me the links, it shows you really want me to make this story a good one. But you don't have to worry, I've already gone through the tales translations tumblr even before you told me about it. HOWEVER, I still appreciate what you've done.
-Although I have to say, I probably won't be using the calendar part though. I have seen the ToX timeline in detail (might have skimmed some), and I don't recall reading the alt. timeline part but I probably missed that. I will be checking that out, so thanks for helping :D
-Honestly there are so many alt. worlds ideas to put out, I don't know which to approach first xD They all look so interesting so I'll see which I want to develop first (or maybe if I come up with something original).
-Ah yes I know what you mean. Agria has suffered a lot in her life but it's sad the game didn't highlight that. As a matter of fact, I'm upset that the game had so much material left out and we had to read these stuff online. If they included them in the game, it would be so much more epic. Of course the game does include some stuff but they're so subtle. :( or maybe it's just me, lol

jshdevaney: Yup, everyone's coming together for one big clash! It's going to be epic!
-Ah thanks for pointing that out. This chapter will address the issue you pointed out (but not entirely. The rest is saved up for more. You'll see whta I mean when you read the chapter).

Well that's it for reviews! I hope you guys will enjoy this chapter and please, share your thoughts on what you think about this chapter or the story. Your reviews always keep me motivated to write more and improve. Well that's it! Until next time!

CHAPTER 28: GATHERING

Jude, Milla, fractured Milla, Elize and Alvin managed to successfully sneak into Fennmont from the Bernauer highroad without drawing any suspicion. Since the party came from the Bernauer highroad, the moment they entered Fennmont, they found themselves in Fennmont's central square. Large crowds of people would normally gather around here and Jude remembered how he and Milla hid from the guards when they escaped the Laforte Research center. It was the first time he met Milla and Ludger.

Basically Fennmont's central square was the heart of the city. To the south was the research district, where the Laforte Research center was located. Towards the north was Talim's medical school and where Fennmont's seahaven was as well. And to the west was Orda Palace. Now the party needed to find out where they the Lance was located.

As Milla decided on the next course of action, Jude looked down at Elize and saw she looked puzzled. "What's wrong Elize?"

"How come it's night time already?" Elize asked, "I mean… the sun was still shining before we entered Fennmont, right?"

"Yeah how come?" Teepo asked as well.

Jude decided to explain, "Well that's because Fennmont is under a spirit clime. Do you know what's a spirit clime?"

Elize nodded. Jiao told her about spirit climes a while back.

Jude continued, "So basically, Fennmont's spirit clime is a night clime. That's why it's always dark here, because Fennmont is always under a night clime."

"But… don't the people miss the sun?"

Jude thought about it for a moment, "I guess… they just get used to it? I mean… I lived for two years and I got used to it."

Elize looked up at the night sky and then back at Jude, "I don't think I'll like it if I lived here… I like the sun."

Jude nodded with a smile. He found Elize to be quite open, at least with him anyway. She still didn't trust or even like Alvin, but considering what happened, Jude couldn't blame her. Once everything was over and things returned to normal, he was going to keep his promise and get Elize into a school.

Milla and the party ventured into the central district, mingling with the crowd of people. It was then that Alvin took notice of soldiers barking orders to the civilians. The people panicked and quickly followed the soldier's orders, packing their belongings before moving away. There were more soldiers entering the central district, all armed.

"Hey, soldiers are coming in droves." Alvin informed the group, "You think they found us out? Jude and Milla are wanted fugitives in Rashugal after all."

Jude observed the soldiers and shook his head, "No I don't think so. They look like they're evacuating the civilians. They probably know about the Sharilton army nearing the city, so that's why they're making sure the civilians are evacuated first. Once they're done with that, they'll start preparing to defend the city."

The party stayed hidden from the soldier's line of sight and saw that Jude was right. The Rashugal soldiers were all barking orders to the people to abandon the central district, to return to their homes or anywhere that was safe. The Rashugal soldiers were too preoccupied to notice Jude or Milla.

A Rashugal soldier just walked past the group, not noticing Jude or Milla. Alvin whistled, "Guess the old man really is the Conductor. I never thought he'd actually manage to seize control of Fort Gandala. And now he's on the march to Fennmont."

"I can't believe this is all unplanned." Jude remarked, "I mean, Rowen attacks Fennmont the day we arrive. It's almost too perfect."

Alvin had to agree. If this was planned, the timing would make it difficult but the fact was that this was all a coincidence. Talk about luck.

"We should hurry then while the situation is still favorable to us." Milla said, "If the soldiers are too preoccupied with defending the city, then we're free to move around the city. They won't realize Jude and I match the wanted posters."

At the mention of the wanted posters, fractured Milla caught something at the corner of her eye. She looked at it and it was the wanted posters that Milla was talking about. And the drawings were horrendous. She stared at the poster and then at Milla. Then back to the poster. Then at Jude. Again back at the poster.

"You mean… these posters?" Fractured Milla asked, tearing the wanted posters from the wall and showing them to the party.

Alvin looked at the posters with a grin, "Yup, that's the one alright. They look as horrible as I remember."

"I don't think you have to worry about being recognized." Fractured Milla said to Milla, "I mean… the picture looks nothing like you. Heck, I feel insulted because I imagine that's how they'd draw me!"

Jude chuckled softly, "I guess 'Milla' has a point."

Milla agreed, "I guess that's true. But I'd prefer to not risk our chances. We have come to close to fail now."

The crowd of people in the central square was thinning out with more and more soldiers occupying the area. Soon the soldiers would ask Jude's group to evacuate as well, thinking they were civilians as well. The party needed to decide where they should go. And for that, they first needed to know where the Lance of Kresnik was.

Jude looked in the direction of the research district, where the Laforte Research center was. That was where the Lance of Kresnik was… and where he met Ludger and Milla. It would make sense to check there first.

"Hey kid, where you going?" Alvin asked, seeing the medical student walking away from the group.

"To the Laforte Research center." Jude answered, "I mean… that's where the Lance was, so that's where we should head first, right?"

Alvin looked at Milla and she responded, "No… that's not where we'll be going. We'll aim for Nachtigal's palace."

Jude was confused by Milla's suggestion, "Orda Palace? Why?"

"No doubt Nachtigal knows about the advancing Sharilton army. I'm positive Nachtigal would not want his secret weapon to be out of his reach when the enemy is at his gates. He should have moved the Lance into his Palace by now." Milla paused, "And even if the Lance is not at the Palace, eliminating Nachtigal is part of my objectives."

Alvin was not expecting that, "Whoa now… you didn't say anything about this. This is a King of a country we're talking about here."

Jude agreed with Alvin's point. Eliminating a King was perhaps going a little too far.

"I understand your concern," Milla replied, "But a man like Nachtigal cannot be allowed to live. His ambitions allowed him to consider the Lance as a weapon to be used. I cannot forgive that. The Lance of Kresnik and Nachtigal must be destroyed… only then will my mission be accomplished."

"Milla…" Jude said softly but realized there was no point in arguing with Milla. Maybe she was right. And he promised himself in Kanbalar that he would do what needs to be done to help Milla. He must strengthen his resolve.

Milla started walking towards the west, where Orda Palace was located, "Let's go…"

Jude, fractured Milla, Alvin and Elize along with Teepo followed. By the time they left the central district, it was almost empty by then and only Rashugal soldiers occupied the area. The soldiers now waited for the Sharilton army to arrive, not knowing that two wanted fugitives had just slipped past them.

The party passed quickly made their way towards Orda Palace, and they passed by a mother with her daughter running for safety. The mother was obviously protective of her daughter, making sure she was safe from harm. No one else in the party seemed to notice but Jude stopped in his tracks, touched by the sight. And it troubled him because the girl was around the same age as Elize.


Skit: Elize's safety
Present: Jude, Milla, Fractured Milla, Alvin, Elize & Teepo

Jude: Hmm…

Alvin: What's the matter kid? *Looks at what Jude is looking at* You worried about the mother and daughter? Don't worry, they'll be fine.

Jude: N-no, it's not that. I'm just wondering… if it's really okay to bring Elize with us. I mean, it's going to be dangerous.

Fractured Milla: Kinda late to think about, don't you think? Where are we going hide her if we don't bring her with us?

Jude: Um… I can bring her to the inn and get a room for her? Or I can even hide her in my dorm room. I still have my keys with me. I really don't think Elize should be with us when it's going to be dangerous.

Milla: If you think that's what you need to do, then you're free to do so Jude. But I'm afraid that we'll have to go our separate ways. We have little time to waste and my priority is destroying the Lance and defeating Nachtigal. We have no time for detours.

Jude: I…

Milla: Also, Alvin was the one that took Elize with us. I believe I said that she is his responsibility.

Elize: Please don't fight. I… I want to follow Jude and… I won't be a burden. I can help! So please… let me come with you. I don't want to be left behind.

Teepo: Yeah! We won't slow you down or anything!

Alvin: Well there you have it. Little Elize says she'll be fine, so why not let her come along. Besides, I'm gonna keep my promise and watch over her. She'll be safe.

Jude: Are… are you sure she'll be okay?

Alvin: *Winks* Trust me kid… there're some things I know about her that you don't.

Jude: Well… I guess Elize can come with us then.

Alvin: Atta boy!

Milla: If that's settled, let's hurry onwards to Nachtigal's palace.


The party managed to avoid being detected by Rashugal soldiers during their journey to the Palace. Since the soldiers were all gathering at the central square, it was easy to stay hidden. After a couple of minutes, the party finally arrived at Orda Palace. To their surprise, there were only two guards watching the main entrance.

The party hid behind a wall, peeking through the corner to check the situation. There were still only two guards. It was weird, almost suspicious.

Alvin stopped peeking and turned to the group, "Weird. It looks like it's just those two guys guarding the entrance. That's a little suspicious. Think it's a trap?"

"It could be." Jude said, "It's weird to have such light security when they're guarding the palace of the King. But I don't think it's a trap either. I mean… they don't know we're here right? So why would they set up a trap in the first place."

Jude's point made sense but fractured Milla already had an idea of what happened. "No, it isn't a trap. It's just those two guards."

"Care to explain?" Milla asked. Jude and Alvin were interested as well.

Fractured Milla shifted her pose, "We saw the Rashugal soldiers at the central square, didn't we? I'm guessing that they're calling as much soldiers as they can to repel the Sharilton army. So that means the majority of them are already at the central square to fortify the defense. There should be very little left guarding the castle."

"I guess that makes sense." Jude said after listening to fractured Milla, "I mean there's no point to keep a lot of guards watching the castle. If Rowen and the Sharilton army break through the main defense, there's very little the guards can do. So they've deployed as much soldiers as they can to the central square."

Milla smiled at that, "Then we can't waste this opportunity that is presented to us. Rowen's siege on Fennmont is really helping us a great deal."

Alvin grinned, "Let's get going then."

Alvin revealed himself to the guards, drawing out his gun and sword. Before either of the castle guards could react, the mercenary shot the guard on the right in the head, instantly taking one out. The remaining castle guard panicked, drawing out his spear and shield. Alvin easily dodged the guard's spear thrust and quickly countered with a clean slash across the guard's chest. He then swiftly knocked the guard in the back of the head with his elbow, knocking the guard out. But with the wound in the chest, the guard would no doubt die from blood loss.

"All clear." Alvin called out to the party before entering the palace.

Jude, Milla, fractured Milla and Elize with Teepo came out of their hiding spot and rushed into Orda Palace. Alvin regrouped with the party and continued further in. They were now in the enemy's stronghold and had to be careful.

Once inside the palace, the party encountered a Lotus Ring, a device that could transport people throughout Orda Palace. Jude had read about the device in a book and explained its function to the party. Just like Jude said, the party was transported to the first floor of the castle. There would be several more Lotus Rings that they needed to get to before reaching the throne room.

As the party moved through Orda Palace, Jude was staring at Milla. She looked so determined, always ready to do what was needed for her mission. At times she could be cold, but he could not help but admire her. It was why he chose to stay with her and help her complete her mission. She inspired him to do what he believed in, to do what his heart was telling him. And his heart told him to make sure he could help Milla accomplish her mission. And Jude remembered another thing that he promised himself.

"It's because you were too dependent on Ludger." Alvin said.

Yes, Jude remembered how he swore to stop depending on Ludger. He needed to grow strong, to do what he needed to do without Ludger's help. If he always depended on Ludger, then nothing would change. He had to be strong now, to help Milla with his own power. This was what he promised himself. And now that Ludger was still not with the party, Jude would make sure he could protect everyone with his fists.

As for Elize, she was beginning to regret saying she wanted to follow Jude. She was frightened. But she didn't want to be a bother to Jude and she did promise the rest that she could handle things on her own. But she was just trying to be brave.

"Come on Elly, don't be scared." Teepo said softly to Elize, "You gotta be brave."

"I'm trying Teepo. But it's still so scary."

Teepo swirled around Elize, "You gotta be brave! Like Jiao! I'm sure that big fella wants us to be brave like him, right? That's why we can't be afraid."

Elize remembered the last time she saw him was just a few hours ago in Xian Du. Jiao promised that even though he was no longer with her, it was not the last time he would see her. That means she could still see him again. She can't be afraid now!

"I… I'll be brave!" Elize said with a determined tone.

Teepo was dancing happily around Elize, "That's the spirit Elly!"

The party managed to avoid detection on the first floor before they ascended to the second floor using the Lotus Ring. No doubt that Nachtigal's throne room was on the top floor.

Milla and everyone moved quickly through the second floor but when Milla glanced at fractured Milla for a split second, her mind suddenly reminded the words fractured Milla uttered to her at Xian Du.

"We're similar and yet… different at the same time." Fractured Milla said.

Milla thought she had buried those words into the far corner of her mind but now seeing fractured Milla next to her, she was suddenly reminded of those words. And for some reason, those words troubled her. They shook her very core.

Fractured Milla saw Milla looked out of it and asked, "What's wrong? You okay?"

Milla shook her head to clear her thoughts. Then she decided she needed to know, to be free from this, "I've just been trying to understand… about what you said in Xian Du."

Fractured Milla blinked, "Huh? What did I say?"

"It's been troubling me." Milla confessed, "I don't understand why it's bothering me, but perhaps if I understand the meaning… I will earn some peace." Milla looked into fractured Milla's eyes, as if she was glaring into a mirror. They were the same eyes. "What did you mean… when you said we were similar and different at the same time?"

It took a second but fractured Milla did remember saying that. She was honestly just pissed at Milla for how she treated Ludger so she wasn't thinking straight. She was emotional. But if it bothered Milla this much, she decided she should tell her.

"It's exactly as it sounds." Fractured Milla said, "I just mean that even though we're the same, we're both Milla Maxwell… we are entirely different at the same time. We have different personalities and different views. You mistrusting Ludger were one example because I knew you were wrong."

Milla wasn't satisfied, "I'm aware of that at least. What I don't understand how we are different. You are Milla Maxwell but from a different dimension, so how can we be completely different? I understand you lost the Great Four in your world but… is that enough to completely change Milla Maxwell?"

Fractured Milla looked solemn but for a split second. She then looked at the prime Milla and said, "I don't want to say much. You have to learn… the truth on your own. But I'll tell you onething that makes us so different."

Fractured Milla paused and Milla waited.

"It's because I've been living a human life for a very long time." Fractured Milla finally said, "I understand… how human thinks, unlike you. That's where we're different." Fractured Milla grinned, looking at Milla's shoulders where the Great Spirits normally would be. "You should ask Efreet or the other Great Spirits accompanying you. They know everything."

With that fractured Milla ended the conversation. The party continued advancing through the palace and Milla followed. While she now understood what fractured Milla meant at Xian Du, she was now handed another baffling matter.

'The Great Spirits… know something that I don't?' Milla thought, 'And what did my other-self mean by the truth?'

While Milla was lost in thought, Efreet and Sylph were stunned. Their whole mission, their purpose, their secret! At this rate, everything would be exposed. And it wasn't Ludger, the person whom they thought would expose the truth. No, it was an alternate Milla. But Efreet and Sylph said nothing. If they started whispering, Milla would notice and that would simply add to their suspicions. Instead they acted normally.

In the end, Milla decided to not think about these troublesome matters. She would deal with them later. For now, she needed to focus. They were close to Nachtigal and the Lance of Kresnik. She must not falter now.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Rowen watched the battle before him unfold and gave commands, "Vanguards, charge toward the Fennmont gates! Left and right troops, support the vanguard advance! Arte squadron, channel your artes and cast them on the enemy backlines!"

The siege of Fennmont had begun just a few minutes ago and despite Fennmont's impressive fortification, the Sharilton army was breaking through its defenses little by little. The Sharilton vanguard army already reached the entrance to Fennmont, destroying the Fennmont defenders that tried to stop them. At this rate, the siege of Fennmont would end in less than an hour.

"Main troops! Advance forward!"

The main Sharilton army marched forward, obeying Rowen's commands. Since the vanguard had paved open the way to the main entrance of Fennmont, the main troops could now advance forward with minimal loses. The outcome of the battle was already obvious. The Rashugal army had no chance against the Sharilton army led by the Conductor.

Now that it was obvious Sharilton would secure victory, Cline Sharil shouted one command, "Do not harm the civilians of Fennmont! Whoever caught hurting an innocent will be punished severely!"

Earlier, before the Sharilton army departed from Fort Gandala, Cline had given a speech to the whole army that the point of the civil war was to overthrow King Nachtigal. Cline reminded his troops that minimizing the death of soldiers was a priority and he was fully aware that it was a difficult task. But it was something that Cline demanded of his soldiers. And he warned that if there were any innocent resident of Fennmont harmed on purpose during the siege by a Sharilton soldier, he would personally see to it that the soldier was punished. Severely.

Rowen and Cline watched battle unfold for a few more minutes. The Sharilton army was swiftly advancing, breaking through Fennmont's fortification. Finally the Sharilton vanguard broke through the main entrance of Fennmont. And Rowen saw this as his cue.

Rowen drew his saber and ran towards Fennmont. If his old eyes did not deceive him, he saw Jude and the party on the wyverns earlier. And he had no doubts they were in Fennmont by now, to stop Nachtigal's mad schemes. He was not going to be left out of the main event.

"Rowen, I'm coming with you." Cline said, joining Rowen's side.

Rowen chuckled, "I would prefer you not come with me. But I'm also aware that you won't be listening to what I say."

Cline smiled and the pair rushed into the city of Fennmont. Their destination: Orda Palace.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

"L-Ludger, watch out! We're gonna crash!" Leia shrieked.

Ludger pulled the reins on the royal wyvern with all his might and the wyvern flew to the right, barely avoiding the building. Although the royal wyvern seemed to fear Ludger's Chromatus powers in the beginning, it slowly started to struggle midway into the journey. And now that they have finally arrived at Fennmont, the royal wyvern was barely following Ludger's commands on the reins. They almost crashed into a Fennmont building just a moment ago!

"The… wyvern's not listening to me!" Ludger grunted, pulling the reins even harder but getting no reaction from the royal wyvern.

Leia looked downwards and saw they were still pretty high up. "Well let's just get down then before we crash into something and fall to our deaths!"

"I'm trying!"

The royal wyvern released an annoyed screech as Ludger pulled on its reins to try and steer it to the ground. It resisted for a bit before it gave in and flew downwards. The royal wyvern shook its body wildly as it descended though, trying to shake Ludger and Leia off. The pair held on until they were low enough and jumped off. Finally rid of the two, the royal wyvern flew back into the sky to make its return trip to Kanbalar.

Leia checked her surroundings and realized the streets were empty. "Wow, I didn't expect the capital to be to be so… um… empty. I mean, I expected like crowds of people and stuff."

But before Ludger could say a word, he and Leia heard a commotion coming from the central district of Fennmont. This caught their interest and the pair went to investigate. As they neared the central district, the noise got louder and louder. Then they saw what was going on.

There was a battle occurring between the Sharilton army and the Fennmont defenders. From the looks of it, it looked like this was the final stand for the Fennmont defenders. Ludger and Leia quickly hid behind a building, staying out of sight for fear of either factions thinking they were an enemy.

"A battle in the middle of the city? What's going on?" Leia wondered, taking a peek from the corner of the building.

Ludger didn't answer and took a peek with Leia. Since the central district connected to the other parts of the city like the research district, the battle taking place here was a hindrance. But since the soldiers were preoccupied with fighting one another, it wouldn't be too difficult to pass by undetected.

Leia turned to Ludger, "So where should we go? Any idea where Jude or Milla might be?"

Ludger thought for a moment, "Milla should be going for the Lance of Kresnik… but we don't know where that is. But she should be able to handle that with Jude and the others. I need to handle something else."

"Huh? What do you mean?"

"I need to find Gilland and stop him. He has that artificial Chromatus, so only I can handle him. If Jude or Milla meets him first…" Ludger stopped there. He didn't want to think about it.

Leia got the picture and asked, "So… where do you think Gilland is?"

"Orda Palace… there's where he should be."

"Then that's where I'm headed! I'm coming with you and no, you're not going to change my mind."

Ludger blinked before he laughed. There was no point arguing with Leia when she had her mind set on something. It was what made her so unique. Ludger looked in the direction of where Orda Palace was and nodded.

"Alright, let's go. Follow me." Ludger said and started moving for Orda Palace. Leia followed close behind him.

XXXXXXXXXXXXX

Jude and the others were now on the third floor of Orda Palace. There were still some guards patrolling the palace but the party managed to deal with them swiftly enough without alerting the whole stronghold. In each battle, only Jude, Alvin and the two Milla participated in battle. Jude made sure Elize was safe and guarded her.

The party had just ended another battle with a group of royal guards and continued onwards. However one of the royal guards only suffered a minor wound to the chest and slowly got back up. With the party's back exposed, the royal guard was free to stab one person in the back. And his target was Jude.

Alvin sensed something was amiss and turned back. He saw the royal guard lunging for Jude. "Hey kid, watch out!"

Jude turned around but it was too late. The royal guard's spear was just an inch away from his chest. To Jude, it was as if time had slowed down. The spear moved closer and closer to his chest until it the tip was just barely at his chest. Then before it could pierce his heart, the royal guard was hit by a dark beam, blasting the royal guard backwards before he finally crashed on a pillar.

"Rebel Ignition!"

Jude and everyone were looking at the person who cast the arte. And it was Elize. The little girl looked scared and relieved at the same time.

"Elize… you're the one that casted that arte?" Milla asked.

"Y-yes…"

Jude approached Elize and grabbed her hands, "T-that's amazing Elize. I didn't know you could use such artes… especially high-level ones. Even adults shouldn't be able to use artes at those levels. And you saved my life. Thank you."

Elize shook her head, "I… I just wanted to help… and I saw that man was about to hurt Jude."

Teepo flew into Jude's face, "Heh, you must be glad you didn't leave us at some inn now right?"

Jude flushed and rubbed the back of his neck, "I guess I am. You and Elize saved me after all."

Elize was able to laugh with Jude and Teepo. It instilled some confidence into her, especially because this was the first time she used her powers to help someone.

Alvin looked at where the royal guard was blown away, "Gotta admit, I didn't expect her to throw such a punch. Guess we're really lucky to have an arte user of her caliber with us."

Fractured Milla folded her arms on her chest, turning to the mercenary, "You knew she could use high-level artes, didn't you? That's why you insisted she'll be fine with us here."

Alvin shrugged, "It was just a hunch. I knew she had something when I saw her at the booster lab all those years ago but I didn't know she'd be able to use artes of that level."

"Booster lab?"

Before Alvin could elaborate, Milla spoke first. "Let's hurry onwards. We should be close to Nachtigal's throne chambers."

Jude nodded and regrouped with Milla before the rest of the party followed suit. Milla led the way and searched for the fourth Lotus Ring. On the way, they encountered two more battles with the royal guards and this time, Elize helped the group with her artes. She also healed the minor injuries the party sustained from their previous battles, bringing them back to perfect condition.

After a few minutes, the party finally came to the fourth and final Lotus Ring. This would bring them directly to Nachtigal's throne chamber. Without a moment's hesitation, Milla stepped into the ring. Jude, fractured Milla and Elize with Teepo followed suit. The rest waited for Alvin to step in, but the mercenary just stood where he was.

"Alvin?" Jude said, wondering why he was not stepping in yet.

Alvin ran a hand through his hair, "Sorry guys… but this is as far as I go."

"Huh? What do you mean?" Jude asked.

"I've got another agenda here in Fennmont so we'll be going our separate ways. Don't worry, I'll catch up with you guys after I'm done with… my own stuff."

Jude didn't have a chance to stop him as Alvin gave a farewell wave and ran off. Jude was still too stunned to say or do anything. Alvin was truly an unpredictable man.

"Let's continue on." Milla said finally, breaking the silence, "Losing Alvin is unfortunate but we cannot stop now. Nachtigal… and the Lance… everything must end now."

Jude nodded and activated the Lotus Ring. A shining bright light enveloped the party and then they were gone.

Meanwhile Alvin was running through the corridors on the third floor of Orda Palace. He was finally alone and free to do what he came to Fennmont for. The only reason he stayed with Jude's group was because they were his ticket back to Fennmont. Since the Fennmont seahaven was closed, Jude's party was the only way back to Fennmont.

Ever since his visit with Doctor Mathis in Leronde, his objective was in Fennmont. And now that he was finally here, he had little time to waste.

"Now… all I gotta do is find Steiner." Alvin said to himself, "Steiner Mel Marta… the only one that probably knows the truth about Ludger."

XXXX

Nachtigal sat on his throne, alone. A few minutes ago, Gilland was with him and reported the situation of the siege. He was aware that his city was under siege at the moment by the rebel forces, led by Cline Sharil and his old friend. But he didn't care about that. No, all he cared was that the Lance of Kresnik was safe in his palace. The Lance was almost ready for mobilization and once it was prepared, the Sharilton forces would be crushed in one fell swoop.

Before Gilland left the throne room, he also told Nachtigal that there were intruders inside the castle. After that, Gilland left. Nachtigal cared little for these 'intruders', guessing they were probably soldiers sent to assassinate him. Obviously these soldiers underestimated him. He may be King but before he was King, he was a well-trained soldier. If anything, these 'intruders' would be useful test-subjects to his new powers.

Finally the doors to the throne chamber opened and Nachtigal looked towards the doors. The intruders have finally come. And he recognized them.

"I was wondering what sort of vermin would dare come to me." Nachtigal spoke with a confident tone, "So you've arrived Maxwell. This makes it the second time you've come for the Lance."

"I'm here to destroy the Lance of Kresnik." Milla replied, "But I'm here to stop you as well. You cannot be allowed to live."

Nachtigal laughed at that, "You actually think you can stop me? Do you not remember the first time you came to destroy the Lance? You lost two of your Great Spirits because of your own incompetence. If not for that blasted man with the black armor, you would have died."

Milla and Jude remembered that. It was when Ludger appeared in his level four Chromatus form and disabled the Lance.

Nachtigal continued, "No matter. I shall deal with you first. After I'm finished with you, I'll obliterate the Sharilton rebels with the Lance. It'll be a fitting end."

Fractured Milla scoffed at that, "It makes me wonder how a man like you became King in the first place."

Nachtigal roared in laughter and got up from his throne, "Foolish girl! A King only needs one quality: birthright! He is born into power!"

"So that he can sacrifice his own people?!" Milla remarked in anger.

"Of course. Again that is my…" Nachtigal stopped. It was only now that he noticed there were two Milla in front of him. "What is this? Two Maxwells? This is… preposterous! There should be only one Lord of Spirits! What trickery is this?!"

Milla and fractured Milla stared at one another and for the first time since they have met, smiled at each other. Nachtigal looked flustered and were enjoying making a fool of the King.

"What's the matter? A little lost for words?" Fractured Milla taunted.

Milla joined in, "You're unaware of there being two Milla Maxwells? Can a man like you truly be King?"

Nachtigal could not believe his eyes. There really were two Milla Maxwells in front of him. But that was impossible. He knew that there should only be one Lord of Spirits! The two Milla looked exactly alike and the only difference to tell them apart was their outfits. This was totally bizarre, even for him.

Nachtigal growled in anger. He had enough of their mockery, "It doesn't matter how many of you there are. I shall crush any who stand in my way!"

"You've already taken countless lives with the Lance!" Jude exploded in anger, "Do you have any idea how much your actions have caused people to suffer?!"

Nachtigal shook his head in disgust, "Foolish boy! Those who have been sacrificed to the Lance are my subjects! As King, it is my right to do what I want with my people! And as my subjects, it is their duty to surrender their lives into my service!"

Jude looked at Nachtigal with disgust, "You…! How can you say all that?!"

Before Jude could say anything more, Milla stopped him. A short silence ensued between the two sides. Then Milla spoke.

"You are beyond salvation."

Nachtigal narrowed his eyes, "I'm through wasting my time with you. Let's put an end to this right now."

Nachtigal drew his sword, a large claymore that was meant to be used as a two-handed weapon. Nachtigal however wielded the weapon with just one hand at ease. This was the first time the party witnessed a glimpse of his strength.

The battle was about to begin.

Elize looked at Nachtigal and grew angry, "You keep saying you're the King… but you're nothing like King Gaius. King Gaius cares for his people and would never sacrifice them!"

"Off with his head! Off with his head!" Teepo cried out.

Fractured Milla drew her sword, "I'm still not sure what's happening in this world, but Ludger helped give me a second chance to live. And a monster like yourself who threatens both humans and spirits alike… cannot be allowed to live!"

Jude knocked his fists together before moving into an aggressive stance, "Someone needs to put a stop to your ambitions! And that would be us!"

Milla was the last to speak, drawing her sword, "I will give you one chance Nachtigal. Tell us where the Lance is."

Nachtigal bellowed in laugher, "You think I'd actually tell you that? Then you're more of a fool than I thought, Maxwell!"

"Prepare yourself, Nachtigal!" Milla called out before summoning Efreet and Sylph to her side.

Milla then led the charge, accompanied by Jude, fractured Milla and Elize. While the party was already prepared for battle, Nachtigal still had one trump card that he kept hidden. He was saving it for one person but it appears that he was not here.

As the party drew closer, Nachtigal spoke, "Even I won't stand a chance going against the Lord of Spirits on my own. However I have this!"

Nachtigal revealed a device in the palm of his left hand and pressed a switch on it. Suddenly he was enveloped in a bright light, blinding Milla and the others. Then a powerful shockwave blasted everyone away. Elize, being the smallest, was almost blown a mile away but Jude somehow managed to appear behind her and absorb the impact.

"What happened?" Fractured Milla demanded.

Jude recognized what was happening, "This is…"

"There's no mistaking it." Milla said, also aware of this familiar sensation, "Just like what Gilland did at Sharilton, Nachtigal has Ludger's Chromatus."

Before them, Nachtigal stood in glory of a level three Chromatus. While Ludger's armor was black, Nachtigal was red. The armor covered every part of his body, legs and arms, all except the head. It was almost close to the ultimate Chromatus.

"I was saving this for your friend." Nachtigal revealed to the group, "It is thanks to him that I managed to obtain this power. But it appears he is not with you. No matter, you will all be the ones to help test my new powers!"

Efreet and Sylph could sense the powers emitted from Nachtigal. "Lord Maxwell, his power is definitely identical to the Kresnik human." Efreet said to Milla.

"Which is weird. I mean, how is an outsider able to use the power that is only reserved for the Kresnik lineage." Sylph wondered.

Milla was thankful that the two Great Spirits were able to extract some valuable information about it but it was pointless to care about that now. Their priority was to defeat Nachtigal!

Milla swung her sword, "Jude, everyone! Get ready!"

Nachtigal went on the offensive and ran towards Milla. Efreet and Sylph both quickly threw high-level elemental artes towards the King but with his enhanced speed, he dodged them effortlessly. He appeared before Milla and swung his large claymore towards Milla. Milla used her sword to block Nachtigal's attack but because of Nachtigal's natural strength that was now enhanced by the Chromatus, Milla was flung backwards like a rag doll, crashing on the walls of the throne chamber. Milla landed on all fours, coughing out blood. Nachtigal's strength was truly terrifying.

"Milla!" Jude called out.

Nachtigal turned towards Jude with a mad grin, "You don't have the luxury to be looking elsewhere, boy!"

Before Jude could comprehend what happened, Nachtigal was already moving towards him. Jude had only a second to defend himself but it was all he needed. Nachtigal swung his blade downwards, smashing the ground but Jude was already gone. The medical student had appeared behind Nachtigal and the King's back was completely exposed. This was a martial art technique he learned known as the 'snap pivot'.

Jude smashed his right fist into Nachtigal's back with all his might but he was not done. He then delivered a roundhouse kick, smashing his leg on Nachtigal's ribs. Normally these two attacks would have been more than enough to incapacitate a normal man. But Nachtigal was protected by the Chromatus armor, so he was safe from harm.

"Is that the best you've got boy?!" Nachtigal questioned and spun around, his sword ready to slice Jude in half.

"Jude!"

Before Nachtigal's sword could connect, fractured Milla appeared on Nachtigal's right and swung her sword. Nachtigal parried it with his claymore and the two exchanged blows. Because of Nachtigal's strength, fractured Milla's only form of defense was to dodge Nachtigal's attacks. Even if she blocked with her sword, no doubt the force would send her flying. Nachtigal continued to pressure Milla, swinging his large sword with increasing force. When Nachtigal missed another attack, fractured Milla quickly counter-attacked, sending her sword for Nachtigal's exposed neck. But before she could reach him, Nachtigal used his body and tackled her, throwing her to the ground.

With fractured Milla taken out of the fight, Jude was next. He dodged Nachtigal's attack and jumped backwards.

"Demon Fist!"

Jude released a wave of energy towards Nachtigal but the King simply obliterated the projectile with his weapon. Jude grunted and charged forward. As Nachtigal swung his claymore in a horizontal arc, Jude side-stepped the attack and used the momentum to move closer. He charged his right fist to blast Nachtigal's exposed chest but before that could happen, Nachtigal was first. He smashed the handle of his claymore into Jude's midsection, knocking the wind out of him. Jude collapsed on the ground, gasping for breath.

Nachtigal placed the tip of his claymore at the back of Jude's neck, like an executioner, "This is the end for you, boy. Die!"

Nachtigal raised his sword to execute the medical student. Fractured Milla was still recovering from her injuries while Milla was too far away to assist. Elize was still halfway to channeling her arte so she couldn't save Jude as well. Nachtigal brought down his sword.

"Wind Lance!"

Before Nachtigal could execute Jude, a green boomerang-like shape appeared from the doors of the throne chamber. Nachtigal had to jump away to avoid the arte and before he could strike, Milla and Elize rejoined Jude and fractured Milla. His opportune moment was gone.

There were two newcomers at the entrance of the throne chamber. And Nachtigal knew two of them, especially the older man.

Nachtigal growled in anger, "Ilbert… you dare strike your master?!"

Jude turned around and saw Rowen and Cline at the entrance. "Rowen! Cline! You're here!"

Cline ran towards the group, "Sorry we're late. We saw your wyverns earlier and came as soon as we could. But attacking the capital city wasn't as easy as we thought."

Elize took this opportunity to heal Jude, Milla and fractured Milla of their injuries since the fight had come to a temporary halt. While Cline remained with Jude and the others, Rowen continued walking forward towards Nachtigal. Two old friends have finally come face to face. Even Nachtigal was barely recognizable under the level three Chromatus form, Rowen could still recognize his old friend. How could he not? He fought with this man for years under the military. There were other traits that Nachtigal had for Rowen to identify with.

"So you've come, Ilbert." Nachtigal said to his old friend.

"Nachtigal…" Was all Rowen said in response.

Cline, Jude and the others could feel the tension emanating from those two. Even strangers could tell that there was history between these two men.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Ludger and Leia were inside Orda palace on the ground floor. They were running through the halls and corridors, wondering why there were almost no guards at all. Then when they turned a corner, they finally found their answer. There were a number of guards scattered on the ground, all unconscious or severely injured.

"What happened here?" Leia wondered aloud.

Ludger inspected the injuries on one of the guards. The guard was barely conscious so Ludger pressed for information, "What happened here?"

The guard was delusional and thought Ludger was a fellow guard, "Th-there were… intruders… five of them. Two of them… matched the wanted posters… they… ugh." The guard lost consciousness after that. However the guard told the pair all they needed to know.

"Wanted posters?" Leia said, "That means the intruders are…"

"Jude and Milla." Ludger finished for Leia, "They're inside the palace as well."

"Does that mean the Lance of Kresnik is inside the palace?" Leia asked.

Ludger thought for a moment and then nodded, "Maybe… or maybe Milla changed her plan a little… and is trying to take down Nachtigal. Or maybe destroying the Lance and taking out Nachtigal are her objectives."

"Milla's trying to take down the King?!"

Ludger turned to Leia, "Leia, I want you to head to the top floor and help Milla and the others. If they're fighting the King, they're going to need whatever help they can get. Don't worry about the guards, they should all be defeated by Milla's group. You should be able to reach them quickly enough."

"All the help they can get?" Leia repeated, "Is the King that powerful?"

Ludger remembered that one fractured dimension he went to with Rowen and Elize in the original timeline. In that timeline, apparently Nachtigal never strayed from his path and remained a just King and the 'Rowen' of that dimension stayed loyal with Nachtigal. If that 'Nachtigal's strength was the same in this world, then Ludger had no doubt that Milla and the others would require all the help they could get.

So Ludger gave one simple answer to Leia, "Yes. He's strong. Now hurry Leia, they'll need you."

"Wait, what about you?"

"I'm still going to find Gilland." Ludger answered, "He should be somewhere inside the palace. And Nachtigal's too proud of a man to have someone help him fight his battles. Nachtigal should be alone… and Gilland somewhere else."

Leia gripped her staff, "Ludger…"

"Hurry Leia. I'll rejoin you guys after I'm done with Gilland."

Leia took a deep breath and started running in the opposite direction, towards the first Lotus Ring that she passed by earlier with Ludger. As she ran, she turned back to Ludger, "You better come back with everyone! You hear me?"

Ludger smiled and gave her a thumbs up. After that, Leia turned a corner and she was gone. Ludger was alone again. 'It's true Jude, Milla and the others will need your help fighting Nachtigal.' Ludger thought, 'But that's not the only reason I sent you away. You already saw what I did to the 'Karla' in the fractured dimension. I don't need you to see what I'll do to Gilland when I'm done with him. You're a good girl… and I don't want you to be stained by me.'

This was the main difference between Ludger and the rest of the party. While he had good intentions like Jude, he was also the kind of guy that would do what was necessary. He would do so at the cost of his own happiness, so long as his friends and loved ones would be okay. This was his philosophy, the way he always lived his life.

Ludger continued on alone, running forward on his search for Gilland. Throughout his search, he did not encounter any royal guards. They were probably already defeated by Jude's party so he was free to scour the ground floor of Orda palace. Then after a while of searching, he finally came upon a large metallic door, the kinds that were normally used on warehouses. Whatever was behind this was probably storing something humongous. And what made this door even more suspicious was that there was a keypad on it, something futuristic: something Rieze Maxia would not have but Elympios.

Ludger took out his dual pistols and each shot at the keypad, blowing the device up. The metallic doors started opening and when Ludger saw what was behind the doors, he realized he caught a big catch.

Behind the metallic door was a large hall but inside the vast hall was only one large object at the center: The Last of Kresnik. There were several people working on the Lance, engineers of Exodus probably. And it looked like they were preparing to move the Lance.

Ludger was not going to let them move the lance. He took out his dual blades. This time, he would make sure to destroy the Lance.

"Here to destroy the Lance?" A voice asked from behind Ludger.

Ludger didn't even have to turn around to know who it was. "Gilland…"

Gilland had the family heirloom's gun pointed at the back of Ludger's skull, "I had a feeling you'd come."

"This makes it easier for me." Ludger said coldly, "I can kill you before I destroy the lance. I can't let you have the Chromatus powers."

Gilland changed the topic, "Actually, I have a proposition to make with you. It's why I've been waiting here for you."

"I'm not interested in making a deal with you." Ludger replied and tightened his grip on his dual blades. He was about to turn around and strike.

"Oh, but I think you do." Gilland said with an evil laugh. Then Gilland told Ludger his proposal.

When Gilland was done explaining his deal, Ludger said nothing. But one thing was for certain. The grip on his dual blades loosened. The damage was done. Gilland's proposition… made him hesitate.

CHAPTER END