Chapter 50: The Obvious Solution
"Really?" Alphinaud asked as he went through several more books on the shelves, his eyes now so tired that they hurt to keep them open. "There was a spriggan that was going around scaring people in Gridania?"
"They said that it was part of the Hatching-Tide celebration," Alisaie said as she ran a hand through her hair, making her look rather disheveled. "A spriggan riding a giant rock was going around and surprising people. Not sure where they came up with such an idea, but it seems that people are having a good time there right now. At least… they would be if they didn't have this threat hanging over their heads."
"Hmm," was all that he could reply with as he rubbed his eyes. He was so tired right now. They had been up for the last couple days, trying to figure out what to do about the new threat that Ilberd left for them. Thanks to Papalymo's sacrifice, they were given much needed time in trying to find a way to deal with the idea that there was a primal that could break free from its cage at any moment… but no matter where they searched, they couldn't seem to find an answer.
Y'shtola was in Gridania with Krile, rarely leaving the Twelveswood as she had to keep an eye on the 'cocoon' as they were all coming to call it. According to her last report, there were no changes in the cocoon yet, but she said that it felt that they were all holding their breaths for a storm to come. He felt the same way.
They knew that it was born from the despair and hate from all the people that Ilberd led to their deaths that day on the Wall. That it was also powered by Nidhogg's hate-filled eyes. So it was already very powerful by that alone. But it wasn't like they could just send in the Warrior of Light to deal with it… she would most likely be killed should they be so careless, and he wasn't going to see that happen if he can help it.
He slammed a couple more books down on the table and tried to look through them again, even though he already read them twice. Perhaps it was some faint hope that he could find a miracle in these pages that he overlooked before. But as the hours, and eventually days, went by, he started to lose his mind by staring at all these words that were of no help to them.
Mayhap Alisaie felt that she was also losing her mind and tried to start a conversation on the rumor of the Hatching-Tide celebration in Gridania. He only wished that he had time to leave this work and go enjoy it himself.
"I don't know how we're supposed to go about this," he stated as he rested his face in his hands, already feeling exhaustion take over—almost falling asleep right then and there. "Ilberd had planned on a monster to surpass Bahamut… and that creature almost ended up destroying Eorzea."
"There has to be something we can do," Alisaie said as she began turning more pages, looking ready to toss the books across the room from frustration.
"I'm sure there is," he answered her, "But the problem is that we don't have time to try and find one. That cocoon won't last forever, and it's impossible to say when the primal will break free."
"I know that," she snapped, finally leaning her head back to rest against her chair. "And I understand. But us sitting here looking through books that we both know by heart isn't helping matters. I know that the Alliance is keeping an eye on the Wall for us, but they will undoubtedly call us to a meeting soon. And we must have an answer for them before then."
But Alphinaud felt that his head was being used in a blacksmith's forge, just being hammered over and over until he wanted to scream. At last, he forced himself to go to bed, so tired that he was able to ignore his pounding headache until morning came.
By the time he rolled out of bed, he felt completely rung out. He wished that he could just take some kind of vacation from all this stress.
Yet it turned out that this next day was going to be full of many different surprises.
It started off like it did most days, with him continuing to pour over notes and come up with plans that didn't seem to have any basis in reality on how to deal with a new primal, with Tataru serving him a cup of tea to try and help.
But just as he was ready to start tearing his hair out, the unexpected form of Claire came through the door and he felt himself getting up from the chair at the sight of her. She looked just as worn-out as he felt and he was already wishing that he could find some way to help. She gave him a tired smile as she approached, asking how their work was going.
He wished that he had something more hopeful to give, but he grimly informed her of their progress, or lack thereof.
"Ah, Claire," Alisaie said when she saw her there and came over to greet her. "I wish I had more to tell you, but the situation in the East Shroud remains largely unchanged. ...Meaning we still have no idea how long it will be before─" But before she could finish her sentence, her hand went straight up to her ear to where her link pearl was.
Alphinaud felt his body freeze at those words and turned his full attention on her.
"A communication from the Alliance! One moment," she added to the rest of them as she listened to whoever was on the other end. "...Yes, of course. Our representatives will be present. My thanks." She lowered her hand and looked up at them both just as Tataru came over when she heard the word 'Alliance'.
"Word from Gridania: the council will shortly be reconvened," she informed them hurriedly. "The Alliance leaders have already begun to assemble."
"They wish to discuss the primal, of course," Alphinaud guessed, both glad that this meeting finally came up… and dread at the thought of how they would have to tell the Alliance that they still didn't have the faintest idea of what to do about it. "As of Y'shtola's last report, the cocoon yet hung above the Wall, unchanged..."
"Yes. But the Elder Seedseer doubtless shares our concerns about how long it will remain so," his sister informed him. "I am told that Cid Garlond has been called in to add his expertise to proceedings."
"A wise decision," he agreed, already feeling tired at the thought of how much work was ahead of them. They would need all the help that they could get on this… and he knew that he had to do something. A part of him still felt this crisis was partly his fault. He knew that Ilberd had done all this on his own, but he could not help but feel responsible for the simple fact that Ilberd had once been one of his Crystal Braves. He would find a way to deal with that creature no matter the cost.
"The more minds we have working on this, the better," he finished, knowing that this was going to take everything they had to be able to deal with this threat.
"Well then, I suggest we leave the Rising Stones in Tataru's capable hands and make haste for the Lotus Stand," Alisaie stated with a glance down at Tataru, who nodded and gave her a thumbs up.
"Leave it to me!" she declared surely before she marched over to her desk and began looking through all of her many papers and books, and it looked much more hazardous than the last time that he had seen it.
By the time that they were ready to leave, he heard her already muttering to herself, "Let's see here... Riol's report needs to be filed, Alianne has requested additional supplies, and then there's─"
"Are you alright?" Claire asked her as she paused just long enough to see how she was doing. At that moment, he noticed that Tataru slammed her hands on the lid of a box next to her and said happily, "Oh! Don't mind me! Everything's under control!"
Claire looked mildly surprised but she let the matter drop as she bid farewell to the other Scions, saying that she would wait for them outside.
As soon as she walked out the doors, Tataru waited an extra minute before she leapt back to the box and he caught sight of her pulling out a needle and thread, already working on stitching up a crisp, white cloth. He didn't give it too much thought about it as he and his sister headed to the door to where Claire was waiting for them and they left the Rising Stones, already taking the road that would take them back to Gridania.
They left the gloomy crystal-covered landscape of Mor Dhona far behind them, passing through the lowest parts of the Coerthas Highlands before they reached the familiar trees and warmth of the forest. They knew that they could just teleport there… but perhaps they were hoping for some kind of inspiration to strike them as they walked and the answer they needed would come to them.
They spent most of the walk in silence, only with them making forced conversation. At one point, Alisaie pointed out that the Warrior of Light seemed to be the special exception. She and Alphinaud were there to represent the Scions, but it was almost like Claire was here representing herself.
"You are in a class all of your own," she pointed out as Claire actually gave a chuckle at that.
But their grim moods quickly returned after they passed through the North Shroud and arrived in Gridania, finding their way to Nophica's Altar to where a silent conjurer was waiting for them. She greeted the three of them with great respect and a bow, showing them inside. They walked underneath the boughs of the trees until they were, once again, in the beautiful, wide-open area of the Lotus Stand. They weren't alone either, for the rest of the alliance was already there waiting for them, all deep in conversation.
Kan-E-Senna was there with her guard, as the Admiral and General Raubhan talked with her. Ser Aymeric had travelled all the way down from Ishgard, as well as the deeply concerned form of Cid Garlond, who was standing with Lady Yugiri, watching with a worried expression in her eyes, though she did a good job of hiding it.
They all fell silent when they heard them approach and the three of them stepped up to join them. Alphinaud came to stand next to Ser Aymeric as the Elder Seedseer began to speak.
"Dear friends... pray accept my heartfelt thanks for your efforts in defense of Gridania's borders," she told them gratefully but also with urgency. "I would fain dwell longer on my gratitude for the support of the Alliance, but the situation at Baelsar's Wall demands that we forego such pleasantries."
One of the Keepers of the Entwined Serpents, her personal guard, stepped forward and began to explain more of what they knew of the primal.
"According to our most recent intelligence, the cocoon of light that formed in the air above the Wall remains undimmed and unbroken," he informed them all seriously. "After measuring the cocoon's aetheric concentrations, Archon Y'shtola has confirmed the presence of a primal entity..."
Yes, where else would the creature be right now? That was never in doubt… what Alphinaud struggled to find an answer to was what they were to do about it now.
Raubahn was looking irritated as he folded his arms and barked gruffly, "Hmph. So we must assume that Ilberd's thrice-damned god is indeed trapped within. And what news of the imperials? They are not like to ignore such a spectacle."
Yes, he had been wondering about that as well. It seemed very unlikely that they Garleans would ignore this, especially since it threatened them as much as Eorzea.
"Sir," the Keeper confessed, "A Garlean airship was observed making an approach, but the vessel was destroyed when it drew near. The Empire appears to have made no subsequent attempts to reach the object."
"The soldiers who witnessed the incident spoke of a 'lance of light' issuing from within the cocoon," Kan-E-Senna said grimly. "Of an entire warship being reduced to smoking ruin in the space of a moment... Veterans of Carteneau, meanwhile... likened the destruction to that wrought by the fiery wrath of Bahamut."
So… the creature, while trapped inside that cage, was still powerful enough to destroy a Garlean airship in a blink of an eye? This was even worse than he thought. No one wanted to say what this could lead to… but his sister summed up what they were all thinking.
"We could face another Calamity..." she stated in a hushed voice.
And the last Calamity was enough to almost level this entire realm in a matter of moments. Before he fell to his death, Ilberd said that he would call forth a creature that was to surpass Bahamut. No matter how he looked at it, Alphinaud couldn't see a way out of this nightmare.
"So the primal is awake, then?" he asked, wishing that they had something else to go on. "Contained, yes, but for how long? We must destroy it now, lest it break free!"
But as Cid was kind enough to remind him, "Agreed. There is, however, the small matter of how to get close enough to a being that swats warships from the sky as you would a bothersome gnat..."
They all fell silent as they let this all sink in. While they all agreed on destroying the primal before it broke free from the cocoon, how were they to do that? With Papalymo gone, along with his grandfather's staff…? What else could they do?
Just as it was beginning to look hopeless, a new voice spoke up, getting all of their attention.
"Is this truly so complex a puzzle?" the pompous, slightly smug voice called out, "Or have you no stomach for the obvious solution?"
Alphinaud looked up to see that the guards had stopped a man from going any further. He was dressed in a slightly-worn alchemist coat and began looking around them all with a rather curious grin, like he was fascinated by their discussion. He looked strangely familiar to him, but he knew not why. Yet Cid clearly knew him as he demanded, half surprised and half angry, "What in the hells are you doing here!?"
But before Alphinaud could ask him what the problem was, the man answered, "A pleasure to see you too, Garlond. Now, if you would be so kind as to explain to these good people why you should be begging me for my assistance, that would be most appreciated."
The guard looked to the Elder Seedseer, who face was hardened as she nodded. The two guards let the man walk in before Ser Aymeric asked, "Who is this man?"
But as the man approached them, he spoke, as if surprised that they didn't already know who he was, spoke up.
"Oh, how terrifically rude of me!" he called. "Nero tol Scaeva, former tribunus of the XIVth Legion of the Garlean Empire. These days, however, one might say that I am something of a free agent."
Alphinaud's jaw fell open slightly. This was the same man who had worked alongside the Black Wolf and restored the Ultima Weapon? This explained Cid's and Claire's dark expressions as Nero walked forward. He wasn't sure if Nero knew no fear or had a wish to be thrown into a prison cell.
"What do you want, Nero?" Cid demanded, getting down to business and Alphinaud feared that a fight may break out very quickly.
"I was getting to that," Nero added to him as if a parent was reprimanding a child for being rude. "Although you already know what I am about to propose, old friend."
Alphinaud looked between the two of them, wondering just what it was that Nero had in mind, not truly seeing where this conversation was going.
"As you have rather belatedly realized, within that frail binding lurks an entity alike in strength to the great Bahamut," Nero reminded them all slowly and clearly, as though fearing that they were all slow. "And the only force in existence which might conceivably contend with such a foe is the very creation which captured the elder primal in the first place. I speak, of course, of Omega."
Omega? That monstrosity? Was he mad?
"Omega!?" Raubahn demanded at once. "That hulk has been gathering dust beneath the plains of Carteneau since the Allagans breathed their last! And none alive knows how to wake it."
Good for them all. Alphinaud remembered when he first learned of Omega from him and Nanamo, which seemed like a lifetime ago. It was because of Teleiji and how he tried to get his hands on that creation that caused so much fighting in Ul'dah. True, they had no more reason to fear from that power-hungry man who had no idea what he was getting himself into; but that did not mean that Omega was no longer a threat in the future.
"I'm sorry ─ do you understand who it is with whom you have the privilege of speaking?" Nero asked with his eyebrows raised. "I am Nero tol Scaeva, master engineer ─ the mechanical genius who restored the Ultima Weapon to full operational capacity!"
That is not something to be proud of. That thing almost ended up forcing Eorzea to submit to the Empire. It took everything that the Alliance had to be able to deal with it before the Empire could follow through on their threats. And now they're told that Omega is supposed to be even more powerful than that weapon.
"And, as luck would have it, I am graciously offering you the use of my considerable expertise," Nero added casually.
Why? Why was he even in these lands after all that he had done? This had to be some kind of trap, he couldn't bring himself to believe that Nero had suddenly seen the error of his ways and was seeking a way to make amends.
"And, what, you just expect us to accept?" Cid demanded darkly. "You're a fool if you think your deeds at the Crystal Tower were enough to win my trust, Nero."
Once again, Alphinaud was wishing that he knew more of what was going on. But Nero didn't seem like he could care less on what they thought of him.
"Trust? You wound me, Garlond! All those years studying side by side at the Academy, sharing both trial and triumph. We were countrymen, once, you and I," he reminded him. "But sentiment aside ─ have you a better solution?" Alphinaud then saw how Nero's eyes then went to Claire and added, "Or do you mean to send in your vaunted hero there, as you always do, and pray the world is not engulfed in flame?"
That was low.
But… he was also right. They wouldn't be able to hide behind the Warrior of Light this time. The sad fact was, they would at least have to get her to the primal safely if they were to force her to fight for them once again. Right now, that doesn't seem possible, and besides, Alphinaud didn't want to risk her life anymore than they had to.
"Let us approach the problem in a rational manner," Nero went on all business-like. "Does not the fact that Omega slumbers in stasis point to the existence of some overriding technology? A means of control?"
That certainly seemed possible. He, himself, only had a limited knowledge when it such matters. They always looked to Cid for the answers when it came to technology, for this was his area of expertise. But Alphinaud was also aware that most machines had some kind of device, a piece to act as its brain which they could use to control it.
So, Nero was asking that they find the means to control Omega and use it to contend with the primal on their behalf. It certainly didn't seem like a half-bad idea. However…?
"I would ask a question, if I may," the Elder Seedseer asked suddenly. "Nero, was it not? In the event that we succeeded in using Omega to shackle the primal in the manner you propose, what then would become of it? Do we not risk repeating the mistakes of the Allagans?"
That was certainly a good point. As advanced and powerful that the Allagans were, they ended up falling victim to their own genius, and all that was left of them now were crumbling ruins and an age of problems for them all.
But Nero seemed to brush off her concerns by stating simply, "Omega is but a tool," he answered back as if it was obvious. "How we choose to employ that tool is entirely up to us. Of course, if you would rather leave it buried beneath Carteneau while you continue your petty squabbles above, then I suppose that is also your choice."
Alphinaud was finding himself growing angry by his smug attitude; so apparently did Cid.
"Spare us, Nero!" he snapped. "The Seedseer's concern is a valid one. He who controls Omega wields the power of the gods. The very power which led the Allagans to destroy themselves."
"And does it not fall to we engineers to prevent such misuse?" Nero pointed out. "What was your company's proud slogan? "Freedom through Technology"?"
"Hah. A creed you follow, is it?" Cid demanded but he then gave a sigh before he looked over at Claire, who had remained silent the whole time. "What say you? Do we take this villain at his word?"
Soon everyone was looking to her, as she gazed critically at Nero. They seemed ready to trust her judgement on this matter, leaving it mostly to her decision. As much as he hated to admit it, Nero made a very convincing case, and he could see that it was making Cid grind his teeth together.
Claire finally looked back at him and answered, "No, but I'll keep an eye on him."
Cid seemed to accept that as well as he sighed and shook his head, a faint smile back on his face as he said, "...As will I. I don't like it, but then it doesn't look like we have much choice." He then walked forward to standing with Nero as they looked back to the rest of them and asked, "Would the council be willing to entrust this matter to a pair of former imperials?"
They all looked at each other, but he knew what the answer would be before they even said it. Kan-E-Senna spoke first, nodding in agreement to their plan.
"Yes," she said. "The task of restoring the Allagan relic will be yours. But the responsibility for its reawakening must remain with the council. Do we condone this course of action?"
They all nodded solemnly to her question.
"Aye," Raubahn agreed. "'Twould seem we do. Let the records show that we invest this contingent with the authority to enter Carteneau and take command of Omega." He then looked over at Cid and added, "Cid, I appoint you leader of the expedition. Scions ─ I would ask that you assign some few of your number to escort Master Garlond and supervise the other one."
He said this last part with a glare at Nero, who looked pointedly away.
"We should be happy to oblige," Alphinaud told them, already aware of the state of the Carteneau Planes and there has been fighting going on between the sides on how those lands should be treated. It seemed that all that will be put on hold until this matter had been dealt with. "The politics of Carteneau being what they are, I daresay our neutrality will prove useful in avoiding any unnecessary entanglements."
"If I am not mistaken, Doma occupies a similarly neutral position," Alisaie added suddenly with a look over at Lady Yugiri. "Might we not persuade you to join the expedition, Lady Yugiri? If you suspected any foul play from Nero, you would be welcome to kill him."
Harsh, but it certainly got everyone's attention as they looked right at her. Lady Yugiri's eyes drifted over to Nero as she said calmly, "My blade is yours."
Nero looked only mildly surprised by that as he asked with a smile back on his face, "Not a moment's hesitation, eh? You'll forgive me if I do not shake your hand."
The plan was made, yet it still felt that they had made a deal with a demon. He hoped that they wouldn't come to regret it.
Details were sorted out and their plans were already beginning to be set in motion. Alisaie went with Lady Yugiri and Cid as they headed off to the airship landing over at the Carline Canopy to ready their trip to find Omega. Claire followed suit, soon leaving on her own accord, while he stayed a little bit longer with the Alliance leaders.
"It's impossible to say how this will go," he informed them. "The best case scenario is that we find Omega with little trouble and successfully managed to deal with the primal. But you should all be prepared for the worst.
"I like not this plan," the Admiral sighed as she rubbed her eyes, already looking tired. "Yet… the more that I try to come up with another, the more that I come to believe this may be our only option."
"I agree," Ser Aymeric stated grimly as he folded his arms. "I'm not happy about this either. And we would be fools to so readily believe that man comes here with the best of intensions… but…? With all that is at stake, can we really afford to ignore his suggestion? Especially since we cannot, in good conscience, send the Warrior of Light in to what may very well be her death. I know that she has performed miracle after miracle on our behalf but…?"
"No need to finish, Ser Aymeric," Kan-E-Senna agreed. "We all feel the same way. That idea is something that we cannot support."
"Still," Raubahn said as he looked down at Alphinaud and added warningly, "You don't think that there's a chance he could be doing this just to hand Omega over to the Empire?"
"It certainly wouldn't put it past me that he would try to use it as revenge for what happened with the Ultima Weapon," Alphinaud confessed grimly. "But, for now, I say that we look into this. We will keep an eye on him. And I know that some of the others will be more than able to finish him off should he attempt such a thing.
"Very well," Raubahn stated. "Don't leave him alone for more than a second. I have not yet forgotten the Ultima Weapon."
Alphinaud nodded, also telling them merely to be on standby and keep an eye on the Wall.
"Do you have an idea of how long we have until the primal breaks free?" Ser Aymeric asked as he began to leave.
"No," Alphinaud confessed. "But that is a good question. I believe that I should go and speak with Y'shtola and Krile about that before I leave."
"You will be going with them to find Omega?" Kan-E-Senna asked.
Alphinaud thought that over. He learned the hard way a long time ago that they all must go where they are needed, but it was difficult to say just where he was needed most at the moment.
"I'm not sure yet," he answered simply. "I will see what the others have to say. Cid's airship is by no means large. So there's only a handful of people that would be able to go with them."
He looked up at them and promised, "Come what may, we shall do all that we can to ensure that primal is stopped."
"We know it, and your words do much to calm some of the storm of turmoil inside us," Kan-E-Senna said with a smile. "We know that you will do all in your power to ensure this. We shall be praying for your safe return."
He left after that, mildly surprised to find a familiar face waiting outside for him at Nophica's Altar.
"I thought you already left with the others?" he asked suddenly as Claire looked over at him.
"I thought to wait for you," she told him which left a feeling of warmth going through his body at the statement. He cleared his throat as he nodded, trying to force himself to smile, despite the fact that it was the furthest thing he wanted to do at the moment.
"Well, that was a rather unexpected development, and one which raises a number of questions...not least among them how Nero chanced to learn of the council meeting in the first place," he said as he thought it over.
"It wouldn't surprise me," she told him. "He seems to have a talent of gathering information he shouldn't know. It was just like with the events at the Crystal Tower."
"Yes, I heard only a vague version of what happened there," he said. "But could you tell me a little more…?"
"I'm sure that Cid would be able to tell you in more details," she said, "But now is probably not the best time."
He nodded in agreement before he asked, more business-like, "Cid and the others are assembling at the airship landing. Alisaie is already on her way, and it would not do to lag too far behind. Let us be off.
They left after that, quickly heading through New Gridiana, and down to the Carline Canopy, where they reached the stairs to take them to the airship landing. They arrived only to find Cid on his own by an airship schedule on the wall. It immediately struck him as suspicious to see that only Cid was here and he wondered where everyone was.
When he spotted them, Cid waved them over as he asked, "Claire, Alphinaud! Ready to go? The others have stepped out onto the landing for a moment, lest you wonder. Nero insisted that he be allowed to inspect the Excelsior before boarding."
This last part he added with a roll of his eyes as if he couldn't believe that he was allowing Nero to examine his beloved Excelsior.
"And you let him?" Alphinaud demanded. "Despite his very timely offer of assistance, the thought of that man poking about in the workings of the ship without proper supervision does not fill me with confidence."
The last thing he wanted was for him to try and sabotage the ship in any way. But Cid was waving his hand down at him as he explained, "Calm yourself, Alphinaud ─ your sister was adamant that he would never leave her sight. She and Yugiri are ─ Ah, well here they are now."
No sooner did he look up, did he see that he was right. Alisaie was there with Lady Yugiri and Nero in tow. It seemed that the Excelsior had passed Nero's expectations for he didn't seem to have a single insult or complaint to throw at him.
"Right, I think that's everyone," Cid stated, only the tiniest trace of excitement in his voice. "Shall I set course for Carteneau?"
"Ah," Alphinaud interrupted him suddenly, "Might I ask that we delay our departure slightly? I require no more than a few hours at most. Our colleagues are studying the cocoon even as we speak, and I would hear their latest observations ere we proceed. It would seem wise to gain as clear an understanding of the situation as possible before formulating our plan."
He knew that time was against them, but they had to do whatever they could to keep track of the cocoon's current state. Besides, someone had to be there to keep an eye on things. Nero, however, didn't seem to believe this was necessary as he said with sarcasm, "Oh? I thought time was against us! How foolish of me."
For a moment, Alphinaud was considering asking Lady Yugiri to finish him off for them.
"Hold your tongue," Alisaie warned. "When we want your opinion, we'll ask for it."
Nero didn't seem to be the least bit bothered by her as he added to her, like he was speaking only to appease a small child, "Forgive me, my lady! I shall keep my counsel until such time as you have finished procrastinating."
Regardless of if it was foolish or not, Alphinaud felt that this was the best choice of action to take at the moment. Cid seemed to agree with this as well as he said that they would fly the Excelsior over to Mor Dhona and meet up at the Rising Stones once everything was taken care of.
"Mine apologies for the trouble," he told them all. "I shall visit Y'shtola and the others forthwith, and join you as soon as I am able." He then looked over at Claire, asking, "Claire, pray accompany Alisaie back to the Rising Stones. I should feel safer knowing you are present to entertain our 'guest'."
He felt bad of asking her another favor, but he worried for his sister and felt better if he knew that she was keeping an eye on Nero, making sure that their 'guest' was behaving himself.
"Right," Cid said after she gave a reassuring nod. "Everyone heading to Mor Dhona is welcome to travel aboard the Excelsior. I'll clear things with the girl at the counter here. Let her know when you're ready to leave."
As the others all began to head to the desk, he looked over at Alphinaud and added in a whisper, "You really going to go talk to Y'shtola about this?"
"Yes?" Alphinaud stated slowly.
"And she doesn't know anything about what we're planning yet?" he pressed him.
"No…?" Alphinaud added as he saw where they were going right away. "Right… well, I supposed that it was only going to be a matter of time before she found out anyway. Its better she find out now rather than hear about it after it's all over and feel that we did not include her in such a decision."
"Brave man," Cid said as he clapped him on the shoulder. "Just remember… if you feel the urge to run away… ignore it. She smells weakness. Oh, boy… Y'shtola is not going to like this."
Alphinaud sighed, fully realizing that he was right. He wasn't looking forward to facing Y'shtola's anger. He hoped that she was in an understanding mood.
*East Shroud*
"You're doing WHAT?!" Y'shtola demanded of him.
He knew that this talk wasn't going to end in a good way and he sighed as he explained everything that happened at the meeting and how the Alliance had decided to go with Nero's plan to awaken Omega and hope that it will be enough to deal with the primal. Naturally, Y'shtola did not take the whole thing well.
"You realize that this could very well be a trap for the Empire to get their hands on Omega?" she asked sharply. "You don't think that we have enough problems without worrying about such a powerful weapon in the hands of the Garleans? Do not tell me you forgotten all about the Ultima Weapon."
"I haven't forgotten anything, Y'shtola," he tried to explain.
"Then why are we even talking about this?" she asked.
"Now, now, calm yourself, Y'shtola," Krile said calmingly to the angry miqo'te. "I share your distrust of Nero, but I'm sure that they had a good reason for this."
Alphinaud explained Nero's reasoning's and how anyone who tries to approach the cocoon in the sky was shot down by the primal inside. Clearly, that thing was too powerful for any of them to deal with on their own, even with Claire fighting, he wasn't going to let this happen if he could help it.
"I'm not happy about it either," he told them both, finishing up. "But, I just don't see another option."
"Surely there is a better one," Y'shtola stated. "The idea of us being in control of such a dangerous machine…?"
"Well, what do you suggest?" Alphinaud asked. "If there were another way, we would do it without resorting to such an extreme."
Y'shtola took several calming breaths as she continued glaring down at him, unable to answer
"Understand, we're not doing this because we trust Nero," Alphinaud said. "But because we think that this may be the best, if not only solution. We will not let Nero out of our sights, which I promise you. We will do all that we can to prevent Omega from falling into the Emprie's hands."
Y'shtola just looked down at him with those empty eyes and he remembered when he learned that she could not see with those eyes anymore. It sent chills up his spine at the thought. But he did his best to hide those emotions as he let Y'shtola think everything over.
"I'm in," said a voice and they all looked up to see Yda walking towards them. It had been awhile since he last saw her, and he could see that there was a strong air of melancholy hanging about her as she stepped up towards them from the trees.
"Yda?" Y'shtola said slowly before Yda stopped just a few feet away.
"I'll go with them," she said firmly.
"Yda, you don't have to…?" Alphinaud began but she interrupted him.
"I know I don't have to," she said. "But I want to. I'm not anywhere near as good as sensing aether like the others. I'll make myself useful and go with you to find Omega. Papalymo… Papalymo gave us this chance, so we shouldn't waste it."
There was another stretch of silence as they remembered Papalymo's final stand and that seemed to have gotten through to Y'shtola as well as she shut her eyes sadly.
"Very well," she said with resignation. "I don't like this in the least. But… if there truly is no other way to get around this…?"
"I wish there was," Alphinaud nodded. "Believe me, Y'shtola."
"And we may not have even that much time left anyway," Krile said as she looked to the sky to see the hanging cocoon in the air. "It seems that the aether flowing around the cage is steadily growing weaker. Whether it is because the spell is waning, or the primal is growing stronger, I cannot say. Only that…?"
"Only that we don't have much time," Alphinaud summed up for them. "Alright. Pray continue to keep an eye on it. I shall return to the others and keep you informed." He looked back to Yda and added, "If there is nothing else to be done here, then let us return to the Rising Stones. The others are waiting for us there."
"Alphinaud," Krile called suddenly and he looked back down at her as she gazed up in worry. "We understand the situation. But… please. You must be careful. I fear to think of what will happen should we let that creation loose without considering the consequences."
Alphinaud could only give her a curt nod, silently letting her know that he understood. He and Yda left them after that, taking the quick way back to Mor Dhona, though he couldn't help but feel that an ominous shadow, that is Omega, beginning to cover the land. After all, a war machine that was built to capture Bahamut himself would soon be allowed to break free should all go according to plan. He could only hope that they weren't getting themselves into something even worse than a primal.
*Later*
Even before entering the Rising Stones, he knew that tension between Nero and the Scions was already being put to the test.
"Hmph!" he heard Tataru's familiar voice called in irritation beyond the doors. "I'll have you know that the Rising Stones is home to the very latest in magitek innovation. Wedge calls it the "Mark XIV Thermocoil Boilmaster," and it's the finest kettle I've ever had the pleasure to own."
"Right, that's her favorite kettle," Yda couldn't help but remark, a shadow of a grin tugging at the edges of her mouth as they opened the doors and stepped inside. The first thing he saw was that all of the Scions were there in a circle, and Tataru was glaring up at Nero, as though daring him to say anything.
They all turned around at once when they heard the doors open to see them approach.
"We are returned," he called to them all, glad to see that no one has given in and murdered Nero… yet. "Well, Yda and I, at least," he added. "Y'shtola and the others remained behind to continue their assessment of the binding magick."
"There didn't seem much point staying just for that, so I decided to come back with Alphinaud," Yda added, before going on with sadness in her voice, "Papalymo bought us this time. We shouldn't waste it."
At the mention of their fallen friend, they all, well most of them, lowered their heads in silent respect. But almost immediately, a great, booming voice suddenly filled the room like thunder.
"By your leave!"
Alphinaud turned around to see a gigantic traveler that he had never seen before, entering the room. He was easily able to tower over them all, and dressed strange clothes that looked like they came from the Far East, though he admittedly knew very little about such lands.
"Good gods," Alisaie spoke up, "That voice could fell a gigas..."
Wasn't that the truth? Even hearing it at a distance, he felt that such a voice would knock him over. Already his ears rang from the loudness of it all. He was about to politely ask the man who he was and why he was here, but the traveler already went on speaking.
"This is the Rising Stones, domicile of the Scions of the Seventh Dawn?" he asked, "I enter at the invitation of one Lord Urianger!"
That was the second time in less than a minute that he was taken aback by surprise. Urianger send him here? Why? What for? Did he believe that this man was here to help them? But just then, the stranger's eyes lit up as he laughed out with a wide smile, "Ho-ho! I spy you there, shadow walker. You always were a hard one to find!"
At those words, Alphinaud looked immediately back to Lady Yugiri, who had taken a startled step backwards as she stared at the man. Since he first met her, Lady Yugiri had always been one who was calm and collected. But here, for the first time, he was able to see shock written all over her face.
"Yugiri…?" Alisaie asked, also noticing how surprised she seemed, "Do you know this man?"
Just then, the man went dazing forward, forcing some of them to stand back so as not to be run over by him as he ran straight for Yugiri, for a moment, Alphinaud was sure that he was going to give Yugiri a bear hug, and was only half surprised when he didn't.
"Gosetsu!?" Lady Yugiri gasped when she found her voice and the newcomer stood right in front of her. "Why are you come to Eorzea?"
"In search of you, Yugiri!" the man named Gosetsu answered good-naturedly, "For days and nights did I row across the angry sea... I made port in good spirits, only for my own flesh to betray me over the trifling matter of an empty belly!"
Wait, what? Did he mean to say that he actually rowed here from Doma?! But that was another continent away! It would have taken a normal ship moons to sail across to sea and he was actually saying that he paddled his way here? He knew not if he should be amazed or worried that such a man was here looking for them.
"Collapsed in the street like an unfed stray, I was, until Lord Urianger came to my aid," Gosetsu explained, leaving Alphinaud to reason that he must have arrived in Vesper Bay before Urianger directed him here.
"Over a most welcome meal, we spoke of the plight of Doma, and I learned of our displaced countrymen's work to resettle this blighted land. 'Twas blind fortune I was able to locate you so swiftly!" Gosetsu said, finishing up his story before turning all business-like. "But now we must make ready to depart! Our master languishes in dire peril, and Doma calls her daughter home!"
Alphinaud stared over at Lady Yugiri, startled to hear that she was being asked to return home all of a sudden. With so much already happening, they needed all the help that they could get, and it helped put his mind at ease to know that Nero was being watched by someone who would be more than capable of keeping him in her sights. But more than that, Lady Yugiri had become a dear friend to them all, and he wasn't sure if he could handle losing another comrade at the moment, even if they were merely leaving Eorzea. His mind was already trying to come up with some kind of suggestion that could work for them all, but Lady Yugiri had already given her answer.
"It is not so simple, Gosetsu," she informed him gently, a guilty expression on her face as she explained, "There are obligations which bind me here..."
This was an answer that Gosetsu was not expecting and he was completely taken aback before asking in a somewhat quieter voice than he used before, "You ─ You refuse? Did you mislay your oath during your flight from our homeland? The laws of hospitality must be honored, but surely the vow to defend your master demands the greater obeisance!"
Alphinaud knew that now everyone was looking back and forth between the two, trying to figure out what was happening. Their master? He knew that oftentimes the warriors of Doma served a master, a lord or lady… whether that be a teacher or ruler. Who was this master they were talking about?
"It was our master who bid me guide our people to safe haven by any means necessary," Lady Yugiri informed him. "And it was the Scions you see before you who provided us succor and sanctuary when all others refused. Dire peril or no, were I to return without first repaying such 'hospitality,' our master would cut me down at the threshold."
That sounded serious. He knew that, to the Domans, duty is above all else. And for many, those who failed in their duties, it meant death. So… he feared that she may not be exaggerating.
Gosetsu looked like he wanted to argue, but it was like he knew what she was saying was true.
"Mayhap that is so..." he muttered in resignation.
Alphinaud frowned, wondering just what was happening over in Doma, and wished for a chance to speak with Gosetsu and learn more of what this was all about. But he already cost them a lot of time by making them wait this long, and he was loathed to make them continue to do so, especially since he now knew that the cocoon seemed to be growing weaker by the moment.
"There is more," Lady Yugiri went on explaining calmly, "A crisis threatens all within this realm, Eorzean and Doman alike, and I go to play my part in its resolution. I will not bring shame upon our liege by abandoning my people or my duty."
There was silence all around as Gosetsu looked down in grim acceptance. It was hard to watch, especially since he had come all this way to bring his friend home to aid their oppressed nation. However, they got a surprise when Nero made himself unintentionally helpful.
He clapped his hands together lightly before stating, "How very noble of you. Now, in the name of honor, kinship, and ─ ah, yes ─ practicality, might I suggest we get this expedition underway? Or would you rather debate the finer points of duty and leave Omega to the Empire?"
He had said the magic words, for as soon as he heard the word 'Empire', Gosetsu immediately looked up.
"The Empire!?" he barked before looking back to Lady Yugiri and asked quickly, "Yugiri? You draw steel against the curs of Garlemald?"
She gave a curt nod, and Gosetsu's whole attitude had changed at once, and he was grinning widely as he shouted out, louder than ever so that it was making Alphinaud's head ache, "Then why did you not say so!? My blade is oathbound to fall upon the ranks of the imperials wheresoever they march! Lead on, shadow walker. And may the enemy tremble at our coming!"
"So, I guess it's safe to say that he's a friend of yours, Yugiri?" Cid asked teasingly and she graced him with a slight smile back.
"Yes, indeed," she nodded. "An old and dear friend. You have my word that he will be more than able to handle any situation."
Well, this was all unexpected, wasn't it? And to think that he had simply wanted to bang his head in frustration just this morning. But any friend of Lady Yugiri's was welcomed here, and they could always use another strong arm. And judging from the blade that Gosetsu carried at his hip, they certainly had more help.
"Good enough for me!" Cid chuckled as he looked to Gosetsu and added, "Something tells me that you're gonna fit right in. We'll explain more of what we're planning on our way out of here, but let us give you just a quick summary."
Cid went ahead and began to tell Gosetsu about what their mission would be, and their new ally was listening intently to every word that was being said. This man was certainly big in size and personality both. Yet, not in a bad way. He actually found this a nice change, and was looking forward to working with this Gosetsu person.
It was at that moment he heard Tataru's voice speak out suddenly, "Claire, wait! Could I speak to you for a moment?"
Alphinaud looked around them to see that Tataru was already speaking with Claire. Though it was hard to hear over Gosetsu's loud remarks, "My blade shall carve a path through the Empire's ranks as a scythe fells stalks of wheat!"
But Tataru went on speaking and he heard her say, "Do you remember when I had you meet me at the Diamond Forge, and we, uh… ambushed you?"
Ambushed? Claire seemed to know what she was talking about, and took a quick step backwards like she was afraid of getting 'ambushed' a second time. Tataru giggled to herself before she said brightly, "Well, once we had your measurements, I set to work making you a traveling outfit in my spare time. I've only just this moment finished the stitching, but I wanted you to have it before you left."
Ah, now it was all making sense. All of Tataru's secrecy and buying materials… her project was to make something for the Warrior of Light, wasn't it?
"Here!" she added brightly as she handed a parcel over to her. "You can try it on right now, if you like!"
Claire looked surprised by the gesture, but she smiled warmly back as she took the clothes and walked off to the back to change. Without him realizing it, Alphinaud watched her leave until his sister gave him a jab in his side with her elbow to bring him back to reality.
"Keep your mind focused on Omega," she warned. "Not how cute she could be looking as she's changing."
"That wasn't… I wasn't thinking anything of the sort," he blustered out, though in all honestly, he wasn't entirely sure where his mind was wondering off too at that moment.
Thankfully, Gosetsu continued speaking loudly, seemingly having a hard time believing that they would be using a ship that could fly. He had never heard of such a thing and was startled to think that there could ever be such a thing as steel and metal actually being able to take off. But the idea of him being able to clash with the Empire seemed to be outweighing any doubts he had over the thought of air travel.
Alphinaud then noticed how Lady Yugiri sighed before smiling fondly at Gosetsu's excitement before she added to Alphinaud's questioning, "Never did I think to hear Gosetsu's voice echo through these halls..."
"Yes, but… forgive me, but who is he, exactly?" Alphinaud couldn't help but ask. "And… could he have possibly have rowed himself here to Eorzea all the way from Doma?"
She thought that over for a moment before she gave a nod.
"Yes," she said thoughtfully. "Truth be told, Gosetsu was never able to tell a believable lie. He is very open and honest, as I'm sure you noticed. I see no reason why he would say otherwise. While he has been known to exaggerate ever so slightly, he is certainly a strong enough warrior to set his course and stay true to it."
"Amazing," Alphinaud said in awe, wondering just what other kind of warriors were there in Doma.
Meanwhile, there seemed to be a hint of fighting about to break out between Nero and Tataru.
"The "Mark XIV Thermocoil Boilmaster"?" he repeated as she glared up at him. "Dear me... How risible must the previous thirteen iterations have been? I could design a more efficient water heater in the time it took that ill-conceived lump to become lukewarm."
The what? Why did Alphinaud feel that he missed something before arriving here?
Tataru only continued to glare up at him before she marched away, still waiting for Claire to come back. But the whole time, he heard her muttering darkly under her breath, "How dare he mock the Scions like that!? If I ever had to sew a set of traveling clothes for him, I just might forget to take out the pins."
Alphinaud privately believed that should the day ever come that Nero needed new clothes, she would simply stitch together a few old popoto sacks together and tell him to get out. But he kept that to himself before she turned around excitedly when Claire came back over to them.
She was dressed in a crisp-white jacket that had a rather simple, yet elegant, design stitched over it. There was a silken scarf with more delicate stitching that was wrapped around her neck, and hung down like a tie, while also wearing a black skirt and leggings that went up her legs, and a pair of white shoes that went up past her ankles. All in all, she was looking very nice, but…?
"Wait…?" Alphinaud whispered, realizing that design was looking very familiar.
"She looks a lot like how some of the girls back at the Studium dress, doesn't she?" Alisaie whispered into his ear with a light chuckle. "Cute, isn't she?"
"Assuming we measured correctly, the fit should be just right," Tataru said to Claire excitedly as she looked over it all. "Snug but not too snug, if you know what I mean...? Sooo...how does it feel?"
"It's a perfect fit," Claire answered back with a thumbs up and sunny smile that made his heart skip a beat.
But those words looked to Tataru as if she had just been given a great treasure as she gasped out excitedly, "You're not just saying that, are you!? Oh, I can't tell you how much this means to me! To have crafted something worthy of the Warrior of Light is... It's─ Well, let's just say it makes all the practice worthwhile."
"Oh, so our clothes were just her practicing?" Alisaie couldn't help but whisper to him with half a laugh. "She was experimenting on us just so that she could work harder on hers?"
"Apparently," Alphinaud said with a smile playing on his mouth.
"I also sewed in a blood pearl charm to... you know... bring you home," Tataru added to Claire shyly. "May it always protect you."
There seemed to be some kind of memory passing between them when he saw Claire's eyes turning very gentle. As for himself, he quickly looked away, immediately coming back down to the matter at hand. They already spent a lot of time waiting here, and it was best that they leave now.
"You ready?" asked Claire's familiar voice when he sensed her appear next to him.
"Just the two unexpected guests, then," Alphinaud said, doing his best not to focus too much on her new clothes. "Still, I suspect that each will prove useful in his own way."
He cleared his throat and called attention to himself as they all looked over at them. Now that everyone seemed to be caught up on the plan, now was to decide who will go where.
"So we have to wake Omega up, right? When do we start?" Yda asked, with only the barest of hints of her old, cheerful self beginning to shine through.
Alphinaud looked at her in worry and asked, "Yda, you... Are you sure that's...?"
"I'm sure, yes," Yda said to him firmly. "I won't lie and say I'm completely fine, but I'll feel a lot better if I'm doing something useful."
To keep yourself distracted from the sadness by doing something useful. Yet another feeling that he knew all too well. He nodded in encouragement to her before his sister began to take control and tell them where they should go.
"Very well," Alisaie said. "I will remain here and continue coordinating our efforts with the Alliance. Alphinaud, mayhap you could return to Gridania and assist Y'shtola and Krile?"
Alphinaud was surprised by this, and was already about to come up with a retort on why he should go with the others to locate Omega, but the more rational part of his mind tried to talk some sense into him. Cid's airship couldn't take all of them… Claire, Cid, and Nero were all obviously going… as well as Lady Yugiri, and most likely Gosetsu. That left room for either himself or Yda to go.
While he was sure that Yda knew some spells, she wasn't particularly skilled in the way of magic. It would naturally make sense for him to return to Gridania and help Y'shtola and Krile while Yda could be allowed to go and feel that she was making sure that her dear friend's sacrifice would not be left in vain.
As hard as it was for him to accept it, he suspected that his sister was thinking along the same lines. Besides, if they were to encounter any security in the form of the Garleans, this would be a good chance for Yda to vent some of that frustration.
"A fine suggestion," he answered, though he didn't feel that way in the least.
His sister looked momentarily surprise by his lack of complaint, but she let it slide as Cid started to give the rest of the orders.
"The rest of us will form the Carteneau expedition party," he called to them all. "Nero and I will focus on rousing Omega, while Claire, Yda, and our Doman friends take care of security. The Excelsior is by the lake just outside town. We'll leave as soon as everyone is ready."
Gosetsu was the first, and loudest, to cheer, looking ready to take down an entire legion of Garlean soldiers and went running off, though he didn't have a clue as to where they were supposed to go.
"He's always been like that," Lady Yugiri chuckled fondly. "He charges in without thinking about the consequences. But you need not worry. It will be hard to find a man more loyal than he. He will be prepared to give everything he's got for the sake of duty."
"I know that neither of you will disappoint us, Lady Yugiri," Alphinaud informed her before his eyes spotted Nero already heading to the door. "It's not you that I don't trust," he added.
"Yes," Lady Yugiri said as she looked to the door as well. "I like not that man. But fear not. I shall keep a close eye on him."
"Just be careful," Alisaie added as she approached them, "And, once again, you see any hint of treachery from him, you have our permission to kill him."
"Of course," Lady Yugiri nodded with a slight bow before she also left.
Cid was already speaking with Claire as they began to leave. "We must be careful, old friend. The walking weapons of Allag were expressly designed to subdue primals, but men like Gaius will always seek to use them against mankind. It falls to us to ensure that Omega is never employed as a weapon of war. In the wrong hands, it would be... It would be bad."
"No doubt," Claire answered simply before she paused and looked back at the three of them left standing there.
"Go and save the realm, Claire. I have everything in hand here," Alisaie told her reassuringly.
"I do hope you like your new outfit. It may just be my finest creation!" Tataru added with a happy wave. "Just stay safe! I don't want to find out if those Blood Pearl Charms don't work!"
Claire nodded before her eyes found his own and he felt this usual pang of nervousness and fear.
"Just… be careful," was all he could bring himself to say. He could have sworn he heard Alisaie and Tataru sigh next to him as she turned and left without another word.
"Really?" Alisaie asked once she followed the others out the door. "That was the perfect chance to say something."
"Now is not the time," he responded darkly.
"I'm just saying, there's no guarantee she will come back every time," she answered coldly. "Wouldn't you regret it if that day comes and you still weren't able to tell her anything?"
Alphinaud chose to ignore her as he walked a few yards away, already contacting Y'shtola on his linkpearl so that he could informer her that the others had just left.
"I'll be there soon to lend any helping hand that I can," he informed her. "How are things so far?"
"Still quiet," Y'shtola answered. "Things are as you left it, which is good for us. But I fear that ever more aether is being drained at of the cocoon. The primal seems to either be gathering strength or the cocoon's strength wanes the longer that it remains. Mayhaps both."
"How are the Alliance leaders faring?" he asked.
"They are seen in and out of the East Shroud," Y'shtola informed him. "They're keeping an eye on the Wall. They wish to be on hand to support the troops should the primal break free, which I fear may not be too much longer."
Alphinaud bit his lower lip in worry as he tried to sound optimistic as he said, "The others should be leaving at any moment. Nero said that he had clear idea of where to start looking for Omega. And we recently gained a new ally, so I am hopeful they will find it in time."
"A new ally?" Y'shtola repeated in surprise. "Who?"
Alphinaud smirked slightly as he told her of an old friend of Lady Yugiri's appeared and how he had tried to bring her back with him to Doma, but decided to stay and lend his aid them once he learned that they were up against the Empire.
"Apparently he paddled his way here all the way from Doma," he informed her in amazement. "I hope you will get the chance to meet him. I have a feeling you both will get along very well."
"What makes you say that?" she asked. "It sounds like he and I couldn't be more different?"
Ah, but they both have the personality of a bull when charging. Sure Y'shtola was quieter and more subtle. But still…?
He did not dare say that out loud. And instead he told her that he would soon arrive in Gridania and they would talk more when they had the chance.
Feeling more stabs of fear and anxiousness in the pit of his stomach at the thought of how much they had to do and where to go from here. Was this really the right path they should be taking? While it was true that Omega was built to handle Bahamut, was it really the pest idea to use such a powerful and dangerous weapon? The Allgans were wiped out through their own misuse of their own technology, could they repeat the same mistakes that they had if they were given such a power to wield?
He wasn't sure anymore and he felt the need to take a drink to steady his nerves before he left.
"Where are the others?" he asked F'lhaminn in surprise when he realized how empty the Rising Stones was all of a sudden.
"They all left," she answered back as she gestured for him to come to the bar. "Hoary Boulder and his companions left to continue reconnaissance on the beast tribes. They were adamant about shouldering what burdens they could while the senior Scions were occupied with this 'cocoon' emergency."
"I see," Alphinaud said in relief. "Yes, that would be helpful right now." The last thing they wanted to worry about after all was any other primals being summoned. Things had been quiet between the people of Eorzea and the beast tribes since the Ixali failed to summon Garuda not that long ago. But that was one less thing to be concerned at the moment.
Now that he had time to think, he had to ask her something.
"Do you… do you think that we're making the right choice?" he asked slowly as he looked down at the bar. "In us awakening Omega, I mean?"
"It's not like you to second-guess yourself like this, brother," Alisaie said and he looked up to see her walking over to join them. "It's a little late to be wondering that since the others already left, I fear."
"I know," he admitted with a nod. "We made our choices and now we must live with them. I know that there isn't another way, nor do we have time to come up with one in light of the situation… but still… I can't help but wonder if we may be awakening something that could bring about a worst Calamity than any primal can."
"We're just going to have to be more careful than the Allagans were," F'lhaminn stated grimly. "We're going to have to make sure that Omega is secure somewhere after we use it… assuming that it all turns out well. But we must be sure that Omega never be used unless as a last resort."
"If nothing else, we can give full ownership to Claire and have her be responsible for it," Alisaie teased lightly. "I mean, she's the less likely person to become corrupted by such power?"
"Nice," Alphinaud stated as he rested his head against his hands, feeling more worn out than ever.
"One was created to capture Bahamut and the other to surpass him... Which will prove the stronger, I wonder," Alisaie said as she also thought that over.
"Yes, the days ahead will surely prove to be challenging," Alphinaud said.
There was silence all around them for a few uncomfortable moments before he saw Tataru out of the corner of his eyes. He glanced over at her, and already it looked like she was starting to get back to work on the paperwork.
"Busy?" he asked her, getting her attention.
"Of course," she answered back firmly. "There is a lot of work that needs to be done and not much time to do so. Me and Riol have been working on gathering information and assigning duties. I have so much work to do. Oh! Maybe I should be making more Blood Pearl charms for them as well?"
"Yes, you mentioned those before," Alphinaud said. "You said that you sewed a Blood Pearl Charm into Claire's new clothes. What are Blood Pearls?"
"I heard about them before… before the feast in Ul'dah," she sighed. "I went all the way to Limsa to try and learn how to be an arcanist. I had heard a great deal about it and I asked Urianger about it since he is so skilled in it. He told me that if I was interested, I could see more of it in Limsa Lominsa. When I had time off from the Scions, I decided that I should look into it."
"And you went off to learn it?" Alisaie asked in surprise.
"Well… tried," Tataru sighed as she looked down in embarrassment. "It was pitiful now that I think of it. I was able to master summoning Carbuncle to my side with only a few lessons. But when it came time to test myself in a test… it… it abandoned me and left me to a host of beasts. Claire was there… she saw the whole thing, so she can testify to that."
"Surely she didn't say anything about it?" F'lhaminn asked in surprise.
"No, she didn't say anything," Tataru answered. "She was very kind and even went with me back to the guild to speak with my teacher so that I could give up."
"I know it's hard, and not everyone is able to grasp such a complex art in just a few lessons," Alisaie informed her. "If you like, I could try and teach you a few simple spells and…?"
"No, it's quite alright," Tataru said with a forced smile. "I know that I'm no warrior. But that's ok. I'm a receptionist. And that's all I need to be for now. I found that there are other ways that I can help out here without having to fight. I think that I'll leave fighting primals and saving the world to people like Claire."
"And those charms?" Alisaie asked.
"Oh, right! Well, I didn't want to come back to the Rising Stones without something to show from my time off," she went on. "But I heard from some sailors at the Drowning Wrench on how people used to make good luck charms made from blood pearls! They were highly treasured and valued to ward off evil, so I thought that I could make some for everyone to make sure that they came home!"
Her happiness faded slightly as she confessed, "But… it was right after that at the feast…? And…?"
"And you weren't able to make any for us," Alphinaud answered in understanding.
Tataru nodded grimly. "But… I learned weaving while I was in Ishgard and I thought, why not sew the charms right into the clothes themselves? That way, I could be sure that you will always have them with you!"
"Wait," Alisaie said as she looked down at her own clothes and Tataru giggled.
"That's right," she said happily. "I got a whole pile of blood pearls and for all the clothes that I make, I always make sure to sew one into the clothes somewhere. May they always protect you and bring you home!"
"Now that is a wonderful idea," F'lhaminn said as she thought that over. "Mayhaps you could start working on one for everyone. We could all use a little protection, couldn't we?"
"Don't you worry about a thing!" Tataru stated before she gathered up the stack of papers, which was almost as large as she was and staggered over to the door to the Sonar.
"I'll help you out," Alisaie said as she left the bar and went to open the door for her. "I need something to keep me busy until we hear from more."
Alphinaud watched with an emotionless expression as the two of them left the room, leaving just him and F'lhaminn.
"Now," she said kindly as she poured a drink for him. "We have some time here. Why don't you tell me what's on your mind?"
"Just a lot of stuff," he sighed.
"I bet so," she answered him as she put the glass on the counter. "But that's not what I'm talking about. How about we talk about a certain young lady that has your attention as of late?"
"W-What?!" he spluttered out, staring back at her as she gave a mischievous grin.
"That girl really is something isn't she?" she asked as he turned red once again. "Alphinaud," she said gently. "I was in love once too. I'm still in love with him, even though he is no longer here… at least, I try to tell myself that."
He looked up as her eyes turned glassy and a hand reached up to touch the beautiful earring hanging from her ear. "He was a good man, even if he made a lot of mistakes in his life. He was killed with a cursed blade… and to this day, his body remains as it was the day he died. I might be able to accept it if he were only dead."
Alphinaud stared at her, not sure of what he could say to someone who went through such a thing. Just what happened? A cursed blade? And she is not sure if the man she loves is truly resting or not? He didn't know how he could handle such a thing should it happen to him.
"Can the soul rest if the body refuses to change?" she asked softly, seemingly speaking more to herself than to him. "There is nothing else I can do… but pray. Every single day I pray, and I pray that his soul has found peace."
"I'm sorry," was all he could find himself saying.
"There is nothing that can be done about it now," she sighed grimly as she took a deep breath. "My… greatest regret, was that I never really was able to tell him how I always felt about him. He knew that I cared about him, but never just how much. Not a day goes by that I don't wish that I told him more about my feelings and let him know just what he meant to me. And then there's the fact that I never had a chance to say goodbye to my daughter… just to tell her to stay safe and that I loved her… that would have meant the world to me if I could say just those words to her. This is why I feel I must speak with you. Please don't make the same mistakes I made and let this pass you by."
Alphinaud was breathing hard as his mind began to feel torn once again at all that was going on. it wasn't enough that he was battling himself over his feelings, but with all the stress that he was under for the last couple weeks was dangerously close to breaking out completely. But the harder that he tried to keep them bottled up, the more that they wanted to break out. That is when he allowed only a trace of his feelings through, just for that moment, but just enough that she could see just how torn he was feeling right now.
"You really want to know the truth?" Alphinaud asked slowly. "Ok… you're right. I love her. I have for a long time now. She's warm and kind and beautiful. I've never felt this way about anyone before. I want to tell her everything how I feel. But…?"
He trailed off as she looked at him sadly.
"Alphinaud, that's so sweet," she told him. "But… if you feel that way, why haven't you said anything to her?"
"I want to," he confessed. "More than once I almost ended up confessing. But we were always interrupted… or I chickened out at the last moment. And I can't help but feel like this is wrong."
"What's wrong with it?" she asked him softly. "That's a wonderful thing."
"But we're Scions," he repeated. "We're supposed to be putting our duty towards Eorzea and the people here before anything else, even our own feelings. Not only that, she's the Warrior of Light. She has made it her duty to protect others. And I know that if she was given a choice, she would always put the needs of others over her own."
He clenched his hands tightly as he went on, "If she had to… she would willingly sacrifice herself for the sake of the people here in Eorzea. And… and that is what scares me. That one day, we will push her so far that she'll get killed. She will no longer be here because we're forcing her to carry all of our burdens. Should that happen, I… I don't know what I would ever do. And, I can't help but feel that I'm being selfish that I want to keep her by my side just because I'm so worried all the time. She doesn't talk much about herself, but I know that she would never be happy being in one place for long. Does that make me a terrible person that I want to keep her somewhere safe?"
"Not at all. I think that it's so sweet how you care for her so. The way that I see it, after all that you have done for the people here, I don't see why it's wrong for you to find a little happiness for yourself," she told him.
"But I don't even know how she feels about me," he answered back. "I mean, what if she doesn't feel the same way? What if she only sees me as a friend? But then I go and talk to her and start confessing how I feel… and it ruins even our friendship? I don't know if I could handle that. And if she does feel something for me… what if something happens? What if she's killed in battle or something? One by one… we're losing our friends here and it scares me to think that the same could happen to her. What then?"
He took a few deep breaths as she placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.
"No one knows what the future holds," she told him. "What's important is how we chose to live with the time we have here. I understand your fears, and I would hate to see you have to suffer what I suffer at the thought of losing your beloved like I did. But let me tell you something. She's not the type of person who will cut off all ties with someone for something like this. If you tell her how you feel, even if she doesn't feel the same way, she will let you down gently. She will just know now that there is someone out there who cares about her so much, so it will give her just another reason for her to keep coming home alive."
He didn't think about that. But the more that thought played in his head, the more that he could see where she was coming from. She was right. Claire wasn't the type of woman who would want to break a friendship off with him, no matter how he felt. It would be awkward between them for a while, that much he was sure, but he began to have hope that their friendship could survive.
"But… what do I do if she does feel the same?" he asked softly.
F'lhaminn began to laugh at that as he looked up, startled.
"Why do you ask as though that's a bad thing?" she asked with a smile. "Isn't that what you want? Or do you mean to pine over her from a distance forever?"
"N-No," he stuttered as he felt his face growing warm. "I mean… I didn't… I never… I don't know what to do next if she does feel something."
"What… do you want to happen?" she asked kindly as those words echoed in his mind.
"I want…" he began slowly, feeling foolish for speaking of such matters like this, "I want… just to be with her. I want to be able to protect her for once. I don't want her to be forced to protect me all the time."
His eyes chanced to look up at her and he could see the kind smile there.
"You really are in love with her, aren't you?" she asked sweetly. "The way that I see it, you love her for who she is. Not as the Warrior of Light, but as a person beneath all that armor. And you have to tell her."
He looked away again, his heart torn before he heard her giggle again. "The way I see it, you have two choices to make right now," she reminded him. "You can keep these feelings inside and never tell her, and risk regretting that… or you can take the risk for even a tiny chance of happiness. Personally, I think that someone like you is just what she needs. Isn't she worth the risk?:"
"Yeah, but…?" he began before she interrupted him.
"Just answer me one thing," she asked. "What has you waiting here brought you? Nothing but this painful pining."
"But what if she doesn't feel the same?" he asked.
"At least you know you tried," she offered kindly. "You will have your answer instead of constantly wondering, 'What if'?"
Alphinaud did not answer even as he felt her ruffle his hair for a moment. He merely thanked her for all that she had done and left, remembering that he should be getting back to Gridania. But the more that he thought about her words, the more he began to think that she made a lot of sense.
