A/N: Hey guys, I bring to you all the new update for the story. I apologize for the 3 weeks delay so I hope this chapter makes up for my late update .
Anyway time to respond to you awesome reviews! (Which the last chapter got plenty ^_^)
Toastybread5: Yeah, your last review really came just as I was about to update the story XD
-I'm honestly surprised a lot of readers were distraught over fractured "Ludger's" death. I guess you all pictured him as the real Ludger (which technically, fractured "Ludger" is, considering the dimension basically mirrors ToX2 events).
-Yes Ludger's identity is lost as a way for Origin to test Ludger. He wishes to see Ludger's limit as a human.
-I share the same feelings as you. The Kresnik brothers are awesome!
Grayjack72: That's just what makes Ludger such an awesome character for me. He has all the bad stuff happen to him but still pushes onward
Demons Anarchy of Pride: Indeed this story has a lot of tragic things happening, especially if you consider that this fractured dimension could have been the characters from ToX2.
-Lol I almost forgot about the time Ludger had to kill Julius early on in the game, thus making it now the 3rd time Ludger will have to kill Julius.
-Rideaux had no chance. I mean, taking on Gaius alone was asking for trouble but taking on 2 Gaius, Muzet (who is a Great Spirit) AND the Chimeriad? Nope, no chance at all
Ace101Mega: I'm sorry :( but if it made you cry, that means the previous chapter was awesome xD
-Yeah Ludger killing Julius in the game was sad. After I read the online materials covering the background of Julius, Ludger and the Kresnik family, it just made everything more tragic. I just wished the game wasn't rushed and actually developed the relationship of Ludger and Julius.
-Thanks! I'm glad you like my story
SkyRune: Hello! And yes, the previous chapter really was heart-wrenching, wasn't it? I hoped you like it
-Oh I never noticed that. But thinking about it, I guess it'd make sense for me to write about fractured dimensions and linking them to Ludger. It makes it more impactful in the story.
-While it's true that the character "Ludger" does not exist but certain things still go on. Also Steiner isn't related to Ludger in any form, so Lara won't be affected on the fact that the PD no longer has "Ludger Kresnik".
-Till next time! I hope to hear from you soon
Ryuu von Einzbern: If you think the previous chapter had too much fills, then this one should hit you in the chest hard.
-Indeed, both Ludger AND fractured "Ludger" are having a rough time, but that's what I think makes Ludger such an awesome character. He has all this shit thrown at him and he still continues to push forward. Gotta respect him
-Yup. Rideaux was just... well, I'd obliterated for taking them all on alone.
-Look forward to more feels in this chapter!
SonicProdigy55: This is all part of the story. Ludger has to go through so much, but it's for the sake of reworking the original timeline. It's just that the price is too much to pay
-Well I won't say anything much about what you just suggested BUT yes, there is something I'll do with Aska and and Volt. That's all I'll say ;)
Jakezero: Glad you liked the chapter. And yes, considering fractured "Ludger" is basically the Ludger from ToX2, it is something that he'd do.
-I guess that makes sense. Still, I'm just happy for every reader that continues to read my story :D
Guest: It's okay to cry. Let it out
-LOL! RIP Rideaux indeed XD
-Indeed Julius is an inspirational character to Ludger and having to kill him again. It's just too much T_T
-Oh I probably won't be updating on my other story until I'm done with this one.
Roxas Blaze: Ah I was wondering why you didn't review the previous chapter. But then you got TWO chapters to read in one go :D
-Thank you but it's not all me. I do have a wonderful editor to help me with writing the story now, so credits to her too :3
-I agree, I like the Kresniks brother as well. They're so awesome! I jsut wished ToX2 actually explored more about them rather than having to go through online materials :(
-Oh yes, the Hymn of Proof by Cammie is just extraordinary. I like her take on the Hymn of Proof
Guest2: Well I'm happy to hear that you've read "A Different Path"! I hope you'll like this story too
Guest3: Ah if you're the same guest, you should come up with a temporary name so that I can identify you with xD
-I'm honestly not sure whether Ludger will be paired. I'm definitely writing the story as Ludger being close to fractured Milla, but whether they end up as a romantic couple? Have not decided
Guest4: Not necessarily. And you got to pay attention to the little details, the party was never on board the SS Zenethra in this story. Gilland never used it. He was on an Elympion battleship instead. But again, its just minor details so it doesn't matter too much xD
Zeref-the-black-Mage: Again, not necessarily. In ToX2, there have been instances where the enters the rift in one location and return in the other. So just because they entered the dimension in Rieze Maxia does not necessarily mean they will end up in Elympious (their last known location).
Guest5: Ah yes. Well you see, I publish the updated chapter after I'm done with minor revisions but last chapter there contained major revisions after it was revised by my editor. I apologize to you and fellow readers for that.
Well that's it for responding to reviews. I hope you guys will enjoy this new chapter and do let me know your thoughts of the new chapter or how the story is coming along. Till next time!
CHAPTER 48: PROMISES
"Julius Kresnik" was confused. Just a moment ago, he was hiding from the Elympion authorities at this secluded spot when Ludger appeared along with his friends. He wasn't surprised that Ludger knew where he was since Ludger's found him here a number of times in the past. This was his favorite spot after all. What confused "Julius" was that Ludger suddenly broke into tears a short moment ago.
"Ludger? Hey, what's wrong?" "Julius" asked, deeply concerned for his younger brother.
"Julius" placed a reassuring hand on Ludger's shoulder and when Ludger felt the familiar touch of his brother, he slowly calmed down. After a short while, his tears had stopped. "Julius" sighed with relief, thinking everything was fine with Ludger – but he was wrong. Ludger had merely composed himself, steeling himself for what he needed to do.
Ludger looked at "Julius" and opened his mouth, ""Julius", there's something I need to tell you."
"What is it?"
Ludger looked at his brother in the eyes and told him the truth, "I'm not the 'Ludger' you know." "Julius" blinked in confusion, not understanding what his brother meant. Ludger continued, "I and my friends are from a different world: the prime dimension. This world that you're in – it's a fractured dimension."
Ludger expected "Julius" to call his bluff but to his surprise, "Julius"'s expressions turned serious. Unlike the fractured party that took a lot of effort to believe Ludger's story, "Julius" didn't look too surprised. As a top agent of Spirius, he was probably not surprised with a scenario such as this.
"Julius" looked behind Ludger and saw his friends. He noticed them earlier of course, but now looking at them properly, he now noticed something odd about them. There were identical beings of each of them. Two Jude, two Elize, two Rowen, two Leia. The only exceptions were Nachtigal who was alone and Milla since there were three Milla. "Julius" could only tell them apart was that they wore different outfits. He knew fractured "Jude" was the Jude of this dimension because he wore the familiar lab coat.
"So you brought your friends from the prime dimension as well." "Julius" said. Ludger nodded and "Julius" returned his focus to Ludger, "If you're from another dimension, where's my brother? Where's the "Ludger" of this world?"
Ludger flinched, "He's… buying us time."
"So he trusts you." "Julius" said plainly. He continued staring at Ludger before speaking again, "…Ludger, tell me everything."
"Julius" sensed there was more to this than meets the eye. Of course he was devastated that this world he was living in was a fractured dimension but there was never a guarantee that this was the prime dimension. Every dimension always thinks they are the prime dimension until proven otherwise.
Ludger took a deep breath and told his brother everything. He started by explaining to "Julius" that he was from a timeline that actually completed Origin's Trial. Due to circumstances, he made a wish to return to the past to fix everything right. From there, he recounted the events that transpired in his journey which resulted with him and his friends entering this dimension. He then told "Julius" about how this dimension was a reflection of the original timeline, the world that he came from. This caught "Julius"'s interest but he did not interrupt Ludger. Ludger then revealed to "Julius" what happened with Bisley and how fractured "Ludger" stayed behind to stop Bisley. "Julius" was impressed that Ludger completed Origin's Trial.
"That sounds like him… that idiot." "Julius" remarked regarding fractured "Ludger". "I guess I should say it sounds just like you too. You're both one and the same after all."
Ludger then moved to finish his explanation, "That's not all "Julius". When I made my wish to Origin, it came with a cost."
"What do you mean?"
"Origin told me, by making that wish, 'Ludger' doesn't exist anymore. The identity of 'Ludger Kresnik' of the original timeline doesn't exist in my world anymore. I haven't confirmed it yet, but… because 'Ludger' doesn't exist, I and the "Julius" of my world are probably not... brothers. "
Ludger said nothing more as he felt was close to breaking down again. "Julius" stared at Ludger and now had a clear idea of why Ludger broke down in tears earlier. After listening to Ludger's explanation, "Julius" understood one thing: Ludger had experienced a tremendous amount of hardship to complete Origin's Trial. The fact Ludger had no choice but to take his brother's life in the Original timeline, "Julius" knew Ludger was emotionally scarred.
Also knowing how Ludger loved his brother, it was no doubt painful for Ludger to discover that the cost of his wish to Origin was losing his own identity. And by losing his identity, he also lost his relationship with his brother.
Seeing Ludger miserable, "Julius" reached out his arm and ruffled Ludger's hair, surprising the younger Kresnik. "Even if you're not the "Ludger" of this dimension, and I'm not the "Julius" you know from the timeline that you're from, I want you to know this Ludger. We are brothers. We will always be brothers. It doesn't matter if we're from different dimensions, from different timelines or different worlds – Ludger Kresnik and Julius Kresnik are brothers forever."
To hear "Julius" say that while ruffling his hair, Ludger was reminded of all the times he and Julius spent their time together growing up. Even though this "Julius" was of a different dimension, he was almost like an exact replica of the Julius of the original timeline. But considering that this fractured dimension was mirroring the original timeline, Ludger wasn't surprised. But that simple fact was making it difficult for Ludger to proceed. Honestly Ludger's mind was beginning to lose his sanity with what he was going through!
"Julius" saw Ludger struggling with something and guessed what it was. "Julius" laid a comforting hand on Ludger's shoulder, "I'm the divergence catalyst, aren't I?"
Ludger's eyes widened when Julius asked that question and looked away. He gave a nod to answer "Julius's" question.
Now "Julius" saw the connection of what Ludger revealed to him. "I get it now. Because the Julius of your world and you are no longer brothers, it makes sense that I'm the catalyst. I'm the most different between the two dimensions now."
Again Ludger only nodded.
"Julius" didn't know what to say after that. It was kind of ironic to him that after all the years of him destroying fractured dimensions, he was now a divergence catalyst himself. But even worse was that because of him being a catalyst, Ludger was forced to go through something that would haunt him for the rest of his life.
"I'm sorry Ludger." "Julius" apologized out of the blue.
Ludger was not expecting that and turned to "Julius", confused, "Huh? What do you mean? Why are you apologizing?"
"I'm sorry for failing you as a big brother." "Julius" said, "You know I never wanted you to be involved in this – Origin's Trial, the Kresnik clan's curse and Spirius… I tried my best to protect you from getting involved in all this but I failed to do that."
Ludger wanted to say something but "Julius" stopped him. He still had more to say.
"I'm not the Julius that you know from your timeline but I'm sure he'd feel the same way as I do right now. I'm sure the Julius of your world did everything he could to protect you from Origin's Trial, because I would too – but he failed. Offering his life to be the Soul Bridge, I'm sure the Julius of your world only did that because he wanted you to succeed, even if you never wanted to take his life. That's why, in place of the Julius of your world, I want to apologize – sorry for putting you through all that."
Ludger was close to tears hearing "Julius" say all this and just as he was about to speak, "Julius" placed a strong grip on Ludger's shoulder.
"Julius" gave a strong smile at Ludger, "But in the end, you were able to overcome Origin's Trial. I'm not the brother of your world, but I want to at least tell you – that I'm proud of you Ludger. I really am."
Ludger stared at "Julius" and once again could not hold his emotions back as tears rolled down his cheeks. While "Julius's" words did touch his heart, what actually broke Ludger down was the fact that Ludger never got acknowledged for completing Origin's Trial. To hear "Julius" congratulate him on completing the trial, a person whom he had a personal connection with, it was simply overwhelming. In the end, even if this "Julius" was not the Julius of his dimension, they were still brothers.
All this was just making it harder for Ludger to do what must be done - to destroy the divergence catalyst: "Julius".
Now that "Julius" has said what he wanted to Ludger, he took a step back away from Ludger. Then he opened his arms wide, offering himself to Ludger.
"I'm glad we had this time to talk." "Julius" said to Ludger, "I'm ready now. Take my life, Ludger. Destroy the catalyst and you can return to your dimension."
The way "Julius" phrased his words reminded Ludger of what Julius said to him when he offered his life to be the Soul Bridge.
"Use my life. Let me be your path to the Land of Canaan."
It was the same thing. Julius gave up his life to become a Soul Bridge and now the "Julius" of this fracture dimension was willingly offering his life so that Ludger and the party could destroy this dimension and return to the prime dimension. In the end, it was just plain obvious that no matter the different dimensions, Julius Will Kresnik would give up anything for the sake of his brother – even if it was his own life.
Ludger took out his pocket watch so that he could transform into the Chromatus form. He needed to use the Lance to extract the catalyst after all. But after a few seconds passed, Ludger still hasn't transformed. He just couldn't go through with it.
"Why…? Why do I have to do this? I can't! I can't do this again!" Ludger cried out in agony.
"Julius" didn't say anything and continued to stare at Ludger. He completely understood the pain and turmoil that Ludger was facing right now. If he was placed in Ludger's shoes and had to kill a "Ludger" of a different dimension, it would hurt him as well. "Julius" had no words of comfort for his little brother of the prime dimension, because no one else could do this but Ludger.
"Enough already!" A voice said suddenly.
"Julius" and Ludger were startled by the sudden intrusion and looked behind them. It was Jude of the prime dimension. The fractured party and the party of the prime dimension were also surprised by Jude's sudden outburst.
"Jude?" Ludger said softly.
Jude took a step towards "Julius" and Ludger, "I don't want to see Ludger suffer anymore! There must be another way to return to the prime dimension other than destroying the divergence catalyst, right? We don't have to go through with this!"
"Julius" and Ludger didn't say anything so Jude continued.
"There has to be another way! Right? Why do we have to destroy this world just so we can return to our world?! Why does Origin's Trial force others to destroy different worlds?! This isn't right! We'll be killing millions of lives! We can't force Ludger to bear the burden alone!"
"Julius" shook his head sadly, "As far I know, this is the only way to return to your home dimension. The Kresnik clan has been doing this for two thousand years. This is the only way we know."
"But… this is just…" Jude said but slowly trailed off.
A short silence loomed over the group, and then "Julius" spoke, "But maybe there is a loophole in our methods. We've been repeating this over and over for two thousand years but if you find a way, then maybe you can spare the future fractured dimensions that you'll enter."
"Julius" highly doubt there was an alternative way to this but there was no harm in searching for one. The Kresnik clan has been destroying divergence catalysts as a way to slow down Origin's Trial but also as a means to return to their home dimension. If Ludger and his friends could one day find a way to complete Origin's Trial without the destruction of fractured dimensions, then they would have achieved something far greater than saving humanity from the trial.
"Julius" then added another point, "And you're right Jude Mathis. It isn't right to force Ludger to shoulder the burden of destroying worlds alone. But you can help by sharing the burden with him. I can see you care for my brother greatly, and I'm glad he has friends like you with him."
"I just… want to help Ludger with whatever I can." Jude said.
"Thank you." "Julius" said with a nod of thanks. Then he returned to the situation at hand, "Things still haven't changed however. I'm the divergence catalyst. Ludger, you know what you to do."
Ludger looked away but he already knew "Julius" was right. There was no other way out of this. But before he committed the deed, he wanted to at least cherish this moment with his brother because once this dimension was destroyed, he would return to the prime dimension – to a world where Julius was not his brother.
"I know, brother." Ludger finally said and looked at "Julius", "I just… need some time."
"I understand."
Ludger then turned towards Jude and the party, "Everyone, I… I'm sorry. I just need some time with "Julius". After that, I-"
"Don't worry about us." Fractured Milla assured and then looked at the fractured party, "I think they also have some things they want to say to us before… we leave."
Ludger nodded and turned towards "Julius". For now, he wanted to at least savor the last moment he would have with his brother.
While Ludger and "Julius" sorted out their final moments together, Jude and the party faced the fractured party. While the party from the prime dimension had nothing to offer, the fractured party wanted to at least speak with their respective prime-selves before the destruction of their world. They each had a message they wanted to pass down to their past-selves.
Fractured "Alvin" had his hands in his pockets as he stood in front of Alvin. "So… you were joking, right? When you said a beard doesn't suit me."
Alvin chuckled, "I guess it isn't too bad. But I don't think I'd go for that look – at least not any time soon."
The pair shared a short laugh amongst each other before a moment of silence ensued between them. Then fractured "Alvin" decided to say what he wanted to his prime-self.
"You know, I've done a lot of things a year ago that I've regret." Fractured "Alvin" began, "I wanna say I did all the things I did because I was with Exodus, but… well… since you're "me", I think you know that's all a lie. It doesn't excuse me for what I did though. I don't know how different your journey with Jude and Milla is since Ludger's with you this time, but all I can tell you is this: don't lie to your friends. That's one of my biggest regrets. I lied and betrayed Jude's group and other people so many times, they sometimes can't help but think if I'm lying to them again. I'm trying to change that now and… I think I'm making progress." Fractured "Alvin" paused to take a breath and then looked at Alvin directly in the eye, "Promise me, alright? Don't repeat the same mistakes that I did. Don't lie to your friends."
Alvin remembered the time when Ludger lost his cool at Xian Du and attacked him for it, all because of the fact that he lied to the party. Now hearing fractured "Alvin" saying how much he regretted his actions, he wondered what else had he done in the original timeline? Because Ludger appeared and changed the course of history, Alvin's perspective has changed. He quit Exodus much earlier and betrayed the party once at Kanbalar, and even then he quickly made amends for it.
"Yeah. Ludger actually called me out on it." Alvin revealed to fractured "Alvin", "What he said to me really made me think. So it's thanks to him that I've changed. So don't worry, my path is already different from yours."
"That's good to hear." Fractured "Alvin" said with a satisfied grin.
With that, fractured "Alvin" has passed his message to his past-self: to not repeat the same mistakes he had done a year ago.
Meanwhile not too far from the two Alvin, Leia and fractured "Leia" were also having their first and last conversation with each other. Unlike fractured "Alvin" who had a message to pass to Alvin, it was Leia who had questions for her fractured-self.
"I wanna know… how do you do it?" Leia asked fractured "Leia".
"What do you mean?"
Leia rephrased her question, "…From what I understand, you've already experienced a couple of times destroying other fractured dimensions with the "Ludger" of your world, right? I've only been in one, and this is my second but… I don't think I can ever get used to the idea of destroying other worlds. I keep thinking of all the lives that are taken and-" Leia stopped herself. She couldn't say any more and moved to ask her fractured-self, "I want to know… how you got used to this? And also how you've become so… so strong."
Fractured "Leia" looked away, "You're wrong. I never liked the idea of going around and destroying worlds but… it's just that we're already too involved to have second thoughts. I always tell myself that we're destroying these dimensions because we have to… that it's for the sake of completing Origin's Trial. As times passed, I simply accepted that I have to be strong to destroy these dimensions but… just like you, I'm still upset about it."
"But you look like you can handle it." Leia argued, "Not like me. I feel so… weak compared to you."
Fractured "Leia" shook her head, "You're not weak. If anything, I wish I can see things like you again. I've seen so many things that I've gotten used to it but you haven't. Being upset over the idea of destroying a world is not wrong and it doesn't make you weak. So please, don't ever lose this side of you."
Leia was touched as she realized that her future-self still shared the same view as her. As a matter of fact, fractured "Leia" have already witnessed the dark realities of the world that she was slowly losing her innocent view she had a year ago. And she hated that. That was why fractured "Leia" wanted Leia to never lose this part of her character.
"I promise… I'll not change of how I see the world." Leia said with resolve.
Fractured "Leia" smiled and then looked to her left. She was looking at Agria of the Chimeriad. A year ago, she really tried to understand Agria but before she ever had the chance, Agria's life came to an end. Fractured "Leia" then remembered the fractured dimension she, fractured "Ludger" and "Alvin" visited that portrayed a scenario where Agria was alive. She sincerely wished she could have lived that life. And now apparently in the prime dimension, Agria was still alive. Leia still has her chance.
"Actually, I got another request." Fractured "Leia" said towards Leia.
"What is it?"
"A year ago, I tried to save "Agria" but… I didn't make it. I know she's got quite an attitude but I think if you actually take the time to understand her, I… well… I think she'll be a valuable friend. Please, when you get back to your world, look out for her? Okay?"
Leia nodded, "Yeah. I will."
Elsewhere, Elize and fractured "Elize" were awkwardly facing each other but had no idea what they wanted to say to each other. While Elize already grasped the idea of fractured dimensions and why there a mirror-image of her, she was still too shy to actually ask fractured "Elize" questions. She wanted to ask about what the future was like, how everyone was doing and whether if she found her family yet. But she didn't.
At first fractured "Elize" wondered why Elize was so quiet, but then she remembered a year ago she was rather socially awkward. So fractured "Elize" decides she should lead the conversation.
"So, um… I'm guessing all this must be confusing for you, huh?" Fractured "Elize" asked, "I mean, when I was travelling with Jude and everyone a year ago, it took me a while to actually understand what I was doing."
"I… I s-sort of understand. Jude always takes the t-time to explain to me what's going on. He's… he's like a big brother." Elize replied.
Fractured "Elize" was rather surprised by that. She recalled a year ago, while "Jude" was definitely protective of her, he didn't really have the opportunity to assist her in everything. Unknown to fractured "Elize", this was because of Ludger's appearance. With Ludger taking the lead of the party, Jude was allowed to spend more time with the party, which included being more attentive to Elize. So the difference was that while fractured "Elize" viewed "Jude" as a friend, Elize clung to Jude and saw him as a caring older brother.
"I see. That's nice of him." Fractured "Elize" said regarding Jude. Once Elize had opened up, it became much easier for the two to start talking. Unlike fractured "Alvin" or "Leia", fractured "Elize" just wanted to help Elize to come out of her shell. That was the only thing she could do to help Elize grow.
Meanwhile not too far from the group, fractured "Rowen" was approaching Rowen and Nachtigal. For fractured "Rowen", he had a lot he wanted to talk with the pair.
Fractured "Rowen" began by addressing Nachtigal first, "Nachtigal, for as long as I've known you, I've always believed that you would one day become a great King. However when you ascended the throne and lost your sister, Princess Carrie, you slowly strayed from your path. But it's not entirely your fault either." Fractured "Rowen" was filled with emotion as he spoke, "I should have been by your side. You were at your most vulnerable state, a period when you needed me most but… instead I abandoned you. I abandoned my duty and my Kingdom."
"Ilbert…" Nachtigal whispered. Even Rowen could feel fractured "Rowen's" remorse because he too shared the same regrets.
Fractured "Rowen" continued, "Indeed I am partly to blame for the path that Nachtigal took. It was only after meeting "Jude" one year ago, that I took it upon myself to stop you. I wanted you to return to your old-self, the Nachtigal that I once knew. After we stopped you, you were considering answering to your crimes. But before that could happen, Gilland of Exodus… took your life. I failed to save an old friend. Failing to save Nachtigal is something I will regret for the rest of my life."
Fractured "Rowen" shook his head and turned towards Rowen, his mirror-image, "In this world, Nachtigal is gone. However because Ludger travelled back in time, he has drastically changed the course of events, one of them being Nachtigal still lives. Please, use this chance to carve a new future for Rashugal – no, for Rieze Maxia. I've already lost that chance but you still have it. Please, don't let this opportunity slip away."
Rowen took his fractured version's words to heart, "We will. You have my word for it."
"Thank you, Ilbert." Nachtigal said to fractured "Rowen". The old Conductor of this fractured dimension gave a smile of thanks. He lost his chance but at least he was glad that the prime version of him would have a chance in fixing Rashugal with his old friend.
As for fractured "Gaius" and "Muzet", he also had a parting advice he wanted Gaius to hear. Sensing that this was meant for his ears only, Gaius signaled for the Chimeriad to leave his side. They obeyed.
Skit: A King's Companions
Present: Gaius, fractured "Gaius" and fractured "Muzet
Gaius: Is there something you wish to speak with me?
Fractured "Gaius": More of… an advice really. It's something I only learned recently that I wished I'd have applied a year ago. Basically it fits your timeline.
Gaius: So what is it?
Fractured "Gaius": Tell me, what does it mean to be a King?
Gaius: It means embracing the needs of the many, and forsaking the needs of the one. To rule, onemust accept a lonely life, that much is true. I – just like you, have lived with that philosophy since we took the throne of Auj Oule.
Fractured "Gaius": Indeed that is correct. However at the same time, isolation can corrupt one's soul.
Gaius: So what are you suggesting?
Fractured "Gaius": A year ago, the Chimeriad gave their lives in order to achieve my goal. At the time, I only saw them as subordinates, comrades-in arms that served me. After their deaths, I was alone. However not too long ago, I ventured into a fractured dimension with "Ludger" and "Muzet", and there I discovered that Wingul, Presa, Jiao and Agria all had their own dreams and objectives they wanted to achieve in their life. I'm sure it's the same for the Chimeriad that I knew and the Chimeriad that follows you.
Gaius: What's your point?
Fractured "Gaius": If each of them had their own dreams and objectives, why throw their lives away just so that I could achieve mine?
Gaius: ….
Fractured "Gaius": It's because they viewed me as a friend. Like you, I never viewed them as such until recently. However the Chimeriad of my world is gone. My advice to you is that while a King must be alone, having a few close companions is necessary for a human. You are no exception.
Gaius: So I should view the Chimeriad as friends…?
Fractured "Muzet": There's no shame in it *Giggles*. You should see how much "Gaius" has changed after meeting Tanner and Kyle's group.
Gaius: Tanner… and Kyle?
Fractured "Gaius": *Clears throat* Never mind that. Just remember what I said.
While Alvin, Leia, Rowen and Gaius had their own talk with their respective fractured-selves, fractured Milla had someone she desperately wanted to speak with. Elle. Ever since arriving in this dimension, she never had the opportunity to have a talk with Elle. The only moment they had together was when they first met and hugged each other before fractured Milla had to retreat. And now when they finally had a chance, it was before Ludger had to destroy the divergence catalyst.
"Elle…" Fractured Milla said, getting down on one-knee.
Elle looked at fractured Milla and asked, "Hey Milla? So you… you're not the Milla that's from this dimension?"
Fractured Milla had a feeling Elle would ask her that so she chose not to lie, "Yeah. But even though I'm from another dimension, I experienced the same thing as your "Milla". I made soup for the "Elle" I know and… even when I fell into the black pit. Everything you did with your "Milla", I did that as well."
Elle understood that and asked something she wanted to know, "I want to know… why did you make "Ludger" let go of you? I didn't want you to disappear forever. So why?" Elle was close to tears at this point.
Fractured Milla grabbed Elle and hugged her, "Because if I didn't, "Rideaux" would have killed you instead. "Ludger" was still trying to pull me up and I knew the only way to save you was for me to go first." Fractured Milla rubbed Elle's back, comforting the little girl, "It's not like I wanted to make "Ludger" let go. I still wanted to spend time with you. I wanted to try and make more dishes for you to try. There were so many things I wanted to do with you. That's why… I'm so glad I get to see you again."
Elle sniffled, "You know, you promised to make me soup."
Fractured Milla remembered that. It was before the group encountered Rideaux on the S.S. Pelune and trying to cheer her up, Elle said fractured Milla was her favorite Milla. Fractured Milla then promised Elle she would make her some delicious soup after everything was over. Unfortunately she never got the opportunity.
Before fractured Milla could say something, Elle continued, "But I don't care about your soup or anything! I'm just so happy I get to see you again."
Fractured Milla tightened her hug on Elle, "I know Elle. I'm glad I get to see you again too. I really am."
Elle and fractured Milla continued to hold each other but while Elle was mostly delighted to properly spend time with fractured Milla, fractured Milla had mixed feelings. On one hand, she was finally reunited with Elle, but it would only be for a brief moment. Even worse, in a matter of minutes, she would have to leave this world behind and Elle, along with the fractured party would perish.
A tear rolled down fractured Milla's cheek as she thought about the fate of this Elle. She once again tightened her hold on Elle, wanting to savor the moment.
Meanwhile Jude and fractured "Jude" were studying each other. For Jude, he noticed how fractured "Jude" had changed his hair and how the lab coat suited fractured "Jude's" appearance. Basically Jude found himself appreciating the fact that this would be him in the future. As for fractured "Jude", looking at Jude's appearance reminded him of his journey with Milla and the party a year ago. A lot of things happened then that helped shape him who he was today.
Fractured "Jude" started first, "About what you said earlier to Julius… you meant it, right?"
At first Jude didn't understand but then he realized fractured "Jude" was probably referring to what he said to Julius earlier – that he wanted to find another way than having to destroy a catalyst to return to the prime dimension.
Jude nodded, "Yeah. The whole thing about having to destroy other dimensions just to return to the prime dimension – it just isn't right! There has to be an alternative to this! And this is all part of Origin's Trial? Ludger's forced to end millions of lives and… he insists he shoulder that burden alone. He's already helped us so much but… but… he always does things alone. I just want to try and help him. But there's always nothing I can do."
Fractured "Jude" completely understood how Jude felt, because he felt the same way. Even though he only met "Ludger" not too long ago, the two quickly became close friends because of their close personality. Shortly after, the fractured party learned of Origin's Trial and the existence of fractured dimensions – and how only "Ludger" could destroy such dimensions. Fractured "Jude" wanted to help "Ludger" but there was nothing he could offer. He could only watch as his friend continued to suffer.
"You're right. "Ludger's" always been the kind of friend that's willing to do everything to protect the ones he cares for – even if it hurts him. Just like you, I also want to help but there's nothing I can do. Promise me when you return to the prime dimension, you'll try and figure a way to help him. If not, I'm afraid your Ludger will continue to risk hurt himself, all just to protect everyone."
"I'll do whatever I can. I promise." Jude said.
Fractured "Jude" was satisfied with that but he was not done. There was one more thing he wanted to tell his prime-self. "There's one more thing I want you to do."
"What is it?" Jude asked.
"You and I are different. I know your Ludger already told you he's from the future and what will happen a year from now, but that doesn't mean the future is set. I'm sure Ludger entering the past must have changed history and… well... all I'm trying to say is, don't try so hard to become like "me". Carve your own path. Just because I am the future "you" don't mean you have to be "me"."
Jude was mesmerized by fractured "Jude's" words because ever since he learned that Ludger was from the future, he keeps wondering if he could ever become the "Jude" that Ludger knew from the original timeline. Ludger told him once at the village of Hamil to not worry about this but Jude couldn't just let that go. Until now. To hear fractured "Jude", his future-self tell that to him, Jude finally came to terms with this. The future was not set – he will carve his own future.
"Thank you. I'll remember that." Jude said. Fractured "Jude" smiled in response. Because fractured "Jude" was "Jude" himself, that was probably why he knew about Jude's insecurities.
Finally there was Milla confronting her mirror-image, Alternate "Milla". By right, Milla should have followed the same footsteps that alternate "Milla" a year ago, sacrificing her life to the Lance of Kresnik for Jude and the others – that was her fate. But because of Ludger entering the past and interfering with original events, Milla had now completely diverted from the path that alternate "Milla" took. Milla was still a human while possessing the Great Four Spirits while alternate "Milla" was a spirit herself, taking on the title of the Lord of Spirits.
Milla had something she wanted to know from her future-self, so she started the conversation, "Do you know about what we've already gone through in our world?"
Alternate "Milla" crossed her arms on her chest, "I believe you've stopped Gilland of Exodus from activating the Lance, correct? However unlike what I experienced, Ludger saved you from sacrificing yourself."
"Since you know, there is something I wish to ask." Milla said. Alternate "Milla" gestured for Milla to continue so she asked, "Do you have any regrets for your sacrifice?"
Alternate "Milla" took some time before she answered, "Yes and no. At the time, we had no choice. If I didn't do what I did, Jude and the others would have perished. Even now, if I had to throw my life away for the sake of my friends, I will still do so in a heartbeat. If you were in a similar situation, would you not do the same?"
Milla knew that she would. Originally she was already going to use her life to save Jude and everyone but because Ludger used his level five Chromatus form, he managed to save everyone and bring them into this fractured dimension. But as alternate "Milla" said, if she was in a similar situation, then she too would sacrifice her life for the sake of her friends.
"However it doesn't mean I wished my situation was different." Alternate "Milla" added.
"What do you mean?" Milla asked alternate "Milla".
"I did what I had to do because there was no other choice. The situation was dire – there were no other options. However you had Ludger with you and thanks to his Chromatus abilities, he was able to save everyone without you having to sacrifice your life. Honestly I envy you. With Ludger entering your timeline, you have been given a second chance at everything. You are still alive, whereas I am now a spirit. You can continue to stay with Jude and everyone while I had to be at the spirit realm." Alternate "Milla" gave a sad smile to Milla, "Please… promise me. Cherish the life you have, and use the opportunity that Ludger has given to you to do what I never could. Live your life with no regrets."
"…I promise." Milla said. Thanks to Ludger, she was given a chance at life – a life where she never sacrificed her life. She would live out her life to honor alternate "Milla's" wish as she never had the opportunity.
With that, the fractured party all had spoken to their prime-counterparts. Some had advice to impart to their prime-selves while others made their prime-selves a promise to correct the mistakes that the fractured party had done before.
Ludger was also done spending his final moments with "Julius". Now he was ready to do what needed to be done: destroying the divergence catalyst.
But before Ludger could proceed, fractured "Jude" had an issue to bring up. "Wait, what about the Waymarkers we collected? We already have four of them, although they're under Spirius's possesstion at the moment, but shouldn't you take them with you? You only need one more."
Ludger shook his head, "I can't. Only a Key of Kresnik can carry an object from a fractured dimension to the prime dimension. I don't have that power."
"So what will happen to the Waymarkers?" Alternate "Milla" asked.
It was "Julius" who answered, "The Waymarkers will scatter once more to a fractured dimension. Unfortunately, that means Ludger will have to go searching for them again. And that's assuming he has the Key of Kresnik with him."
"Don't worry." Ludger said towards "Julius" and fractured "Jude". He then made a vow, "We'll find all five of the Waymarkers again, and we will have the Key of Kresnik with us too. I'll make everything right in the prime dimension. I swear it!"
"Julius" and the fractured party all had their eyes locked on Ludger and could feel the weight of his words. Everyone, especially "Julius", knew Ludger meant what he said. As the only human to have actually completed Origin's Trial, Ludger was their hope now.
"Julius" smiled and gave a nod, "I know you'll do it, Ludger. You're my brother after all." Julius then took a step back and looked directly into Ludger's eyes, "I'm sorry for putting you through this again Ludger, but do what needs to be done."
As if to emphasize "Julius's" words, Ludger and the party could see a faint purple aura being emitted from "Julius". Ludger, Leia and fractured Milla recognized that as the sign of a divergence catalyst. There was no mistake about it.
Ludger cried out in frustration and took out his pocket watch, activating his level one Chromatus form. His arms were covered by the Chromatus armor with the lance appearing on Ludger's right hand. This was it. Once Ludger pierces his lance through "Julius", the divergence catalyst would be destroyed. This world will disappear.
With this world about to disappear, Jude, Milla, Alvin and the others looked at the fractured party for what would be the final time. The party expected the fractured party to look afraid but instead they maintained a strong look in their eyes. They were truly giving their lives away for the sake of Origin's Trial – for the sake of the prime dimension.
Ludger raised his lance and looked at "Julius". His heart was telling him to go through with it, to end this whole thing but his body was not moving. And looking at "Julius", he remembered what "Julius" told him earlier.
"We are brothers. We will always be brothers. It doesn't matter if we're from different dimensions, from different timelines or different worlds – Ludger Kresnik and Julius Kresnik are brothers forever."
Ludger shoved all these thoughts out of his mind and charged towards his brother, finally piercing his lance through "Julius's" chest. Leia flinched and looked away at the last minute, unable to actually watch Ludger take the life of his own brother, even if his brother was from a different dimension.
As Ludger's lance was protruding out of "Julius's" body, everyone could see it: at the tip of the lance was the catalyst. Ludger pulled out his lance and stepped away from his brother. "Julius" was bleeding from the corner of his lips, clutching the area on his chest where he was stabbed, his hand drenched in blood. But despite the horrific situation he was in, "Julius" smiled at his brother.
"Julius!" Ludger cried out in agony. His heart ached, feeling as if a million needles piercing through.
The catalyst on the tip of Ludger's lance cracked, signifying that the world was about to break. Jude and fractured "Jude" locked eyes for one final time and although neither said a word, the message was clear: fractured "Jude" was putting his faith now in Jude. It would be the legacy of this world.
The catalyst finally ruptured and the world was about to be destroyed. Ludger however still had his eyes glued to "Julius" and he reached out his hand towards his brother. Five inches away. Four inches. Three. Two. One. And just before he could feel his brother for one final time, the fractured dimension broke apart – like a mirror shattering into a million pieces.
The final image Ludger saw was "Julius" breaking into pieces. He looked behind him and saw the fractured party, the friends he knew from the original timeline, before they too shattered before his eyes. The world was gone and darkness consumed him and his friends.
It was done. Ludger has destroyed the dimension that mirrored the original timeline – the world that he has come from, as if symbolizing eliminating the identity of "Ludger Will Kresnik". And by doing so, he has also destroyed the one and final link that proved he and Julius were brothers.
The tie of the Kresnik brothers has been severed.
CHAPTER END
