A/N: Hey everyone, I know it's been a minute since the last update. Life has really been... a lot. Thanks for hanging in there with me.
Stomach turning, Melia stepped under the hot spray of the shower and closed her eyes. Dunban would be leaving on his new mission in the next few hours. He would be leaving her again. The sobering reality reverberated in the previously quiet corners of her mind as she set herself to washing his touch and smell from her body. But the stain of him had sunk below the layers of skin that covered her limbs, straight into the fibers of her heart, saturating them with the memories of time spent in his presence. Now, they shivered, aware these memories could cause her more pain than pleasure should he not return.
Pushing down the fear, Melia washed her hair. It was foolish to let her emotions run away in such a manner. He was a BLADE captain. This was his job. More than a job; it was his responsibility to do what was needed to support and protect his people. If her father called her away to embark on a mission, she would leave in a heartbeat as well.
Though not without strain.
However, her current mission was to sit and wait for the scientists to uncover the secrets of the VITA while she played ambassador and did what she could to gain the trust of the humans to eventually use against them for her father's schemes.
She scrubbed her hair hard.
He would be out there, risking his life while she was forced to sit and essentially do nothing until the Emperor devised some other plot for her to take part in. This all from her father, who decided against mounting a rescue mission when she confronted most certain death.
The dead-eyed Prone appeared in her mind. Her fingers stilled between strands of silver hair.
I'll make you talk. One way or another.
She stumbled back against the shower wall, warm skin colliding with cold tile. Her body trembled, but not from the touch. The gravely voice echoed in her ears.
You'll break. They always do.
Her screams: raw and strangled. They sang on repeat in her mind. Melia dropped to her knees. Flesh hitting flesh: merciless, endless. Bruises blossomed on her cheeks and chest with every impact of his fist. Metallic warmth swished around in her mouth. Her heart pounded in her chest.
"Stop! Stop!" She pleaded.
There was no stopping. He was closing in, raising his fists, knuckles shiny with the slick red of her blood.
It's over for you.
She flung out her arms to shield herself. A bolt of ether sang through the air. The water pouring down on her turned scorching hot. Yelping, she opened her eyes and lunged for the shower switch, powering it down.
The spray receded, her body shivering in the frigid air. Heaving, she leaned against the wall. Her eyes flicked back and forth. She was alone. A figment of her imagination. A memory run rampant.
Why did the dead-eyed Prone still haunt her? He was dead. Melia had seen Tyrea take his life. And yet...she couldn't trust it. That he wouldn't emerge from the darkness to finish what he'd begun and drag her down with him.
A sob erupted from her chest, wracking her body. Slapping her hands over her mouth, Melia wailed into her palms, her eyes squeezing shut on instinct. She was safe in this house. She knew it with every rational cell of her mind. Still, her heart felt differently.
Eventually, the sobs subsided. A weariness settled over the princess and she forced herself to move, trudging out of the shower. How was she supposed to heal? How was she supposed to resume her life without constantly fearing to look over her shoulder?
Her cheeks burned with shame. She grabbed a towel and began to dry herself methodically: one limb than the next. Obviously, she needed to speak to someone about her condition. But who? Were there any licensed counselors amongst the remaining High Entia? Could she trust one of them to keep such a secret, that their princess was teetering towards instability during wartime? Certainly not.
Speaking to a Homs counselor was out of the question. She could hear her father's incredulous response to such a notion: revealing weakness to an enemy was a non-option.
Then there was Dunban. He had graciously offered to listen if she ever desired to share with him what had happened. Everything in her craved to. But how could she lay such a burden on him when he was fighting enemies not only abroad, but also at home? No, she could not trouble him. Yes, she had promised to be honest with him, and she had revealed her nightmares. But this ran deeper. And Melia's instincts whispered that he was already aware of that.
Who was left? Tyrea. No, her sister would blame herself for not rescuing Melia sooner should she even mention the matter.
It seemed there was no one.
"What's wrong? You look as though a Hades Beetle shat in your mouth."
Melia glared at her sister, who sauntered into her room. "Is that truly necessary?"
"Getting a rise out of you is always necessary, dear sister." Tyrea sneered, then dropped onto the bed. "I take it that your morning wasn't quite what you'd hoped it to be?"
"There is a mission." Melia went to her closet and began rifling through the contents, searching for an outfit for the day.
"Wow. That was fairly quick." Tyrea mused. "And you're stuck here, twiddling your thumbs. No wonder you're so cross."
Melia sifted through the hangers, shoving them aside as she inspected each outfit. Yes, she would be sitting, waiting patiently for news from the scientists and anticipating Dunban's. Was that all she was fit for? Obeying orders?
No. Melia was a fighter. She had demonstrated as such multiple times in battle. Yet here she was, doing absolutely nothing because of her father's orders. Her father, in his tower, playing puppet master with all of them.
Not today.
Melia spun around, lips folded into a grim line. "Gather your things. We will be joining them."
"What? Is the princess disobeying the great Emperor's commands?" Tyrea leaned forward, eyes sparkling.
"I do not wish to discuss my father. And if we are to make this alliance a genuine relationship, then we as High Entia need to begin illustrating good faith with the humans."
"Right. Of course. Whatever is best for the alliance."
"I do not appreciate your jesting."
"I am doing nothing of the sort!" But the mischief in her smile said otherwise.
Two could play that game. Melia grabbed her BLADE-issued communicator, scrolled through her contacts, and picked out the one she was searching for. Then put it on speaker.
A dull ringing sound filled the air.
"Hello?" A sweet voice said.
"Eleonora. Good morning. This is Melia Antiqua. How are you?"
Tyrea gaped.
"Oh, princess! I'm fine. What can I do for you?"
Melia smirked at her sister and continued, "I apologize if this inquiry is not under your purview but if I remember correctly, you are familiar with all of the BLADE departments. I need our transport vehicle pulled out of the garage."
"Oh, that's no problem, I'm happy to help. I can get that sorted for you. I'll arrange for it to be brought to Dunban's, if you'd like?"
"No, that's not necessary. Tyrea can retrieve it in the industrial district."
"Of course. I'll let Dalton know she will be there to pick it up shortly."
"Thank you, Eleonora. I appreciate your help."
"Um, I'm sorry if this is weird but...how is Tyrea?" Eleonora asked, her hesitant voice streaming over the speakers.
Melia gestured for Tyrea to say hello. Tyrea shook her head and crawled backward on the bed. Melia rolled her eyes.
"She's well. Still recovering her strength from her recent mission."
"That's great to hear. I'm glad she's doing okay."
Again, Melia waved at her sister to make her presence known. And again, her sister shook her head, scowling at the princess.
With a shrug, Melia turned her attention back to the communicator. "Well, I won't take up any more of your time this morning."
"Oh please, don't worry. It wasn't a bother at all." Eleonora answered. "And please say hi to Tyrea for me."
"Of course—"
"Ummhi." Tyrea blurted, scrambling to the edge of the bed.
Melia furrowed her brow. That is your choice of greeting? Melia asked telepathically.
Tyrea scowed. You do NOT get to comment on my "choice of greeting" since you set me up in this miserable trap.
"Oh, Tyrea!" Eleanora exclaimed. "The princess and I were just talking about you."
"Why?"
You are aware that you sound caustic? She's simply being friendly. Melia pinched the bridge of her nose.
What am I supposed to say?! Tyrea mentally snapped back.
"I just wanted to know how you were doing, that's all." Both High Entia could hear the tinge of uncertainty in the human woman's voice.
Tyrea clapped her hands over her face. This is why I didn't want to say anything!
Why don't you ask if she'd like to go on a walk? Melia suggested.
Stop.
Well, do something. She's waiting.
This, coming from you? How rich.
I recognize the irony of the situation but the silence is growing.
Fine—let me just...
"I'm just going to—"
"Elenora," Tyrea interrupted and removed her hands from her face.
"...Yes?"
The High Entia shut her eyes and gritted her teeth. "In the commercial district...there is a...cafe? Correct?"
"Why yes. It serves over 50 different varieties of coffee from Earth. I go there every day. I'm a bit of an addict." She giggled.
"Interesting."
Tyrea. Just ask if she would like to—
SHUT. UP.
Melia's eyes widened. Tyrea opened her eyes and focused on the communicator in Melia's hand. "This cafe. We could go there."
"Like...together?"
"Mmhmmm."
"That would be lovely!" The hopeful voice chirped through the speaker. "I could share with you some of my favorites."
"That would be..."
Delightful. Say delightful.
"...swell."
Swell?
I know how it sounded, alright!?
I gave you a word to use.
Well, I didn't want to use it because I'm angry with you!
"Great! I'm excited!" Eleonora added.
"We won't keep you any longer. And thank you so much for your help." Melia answered.
"Of course. I'm happy to help in any way I can. I hope you both have a safe trip. And just reach out when you get back, Tyrea. I'll make time for whenever." Eleonora asserted, then added gently, "I'm looking forward to it."
"I will," Tyrea responded, her voice a little lighter, and softer.
"Bye now!" And the call ended.
"What the fuck!?" Tyrea snapped, eyes blazing as she stared daggers at her sister.
Melia pursed her lips, her frustration growing within her. "Why are you so angry?"
"Because...because what if I have nothing to say?"
"I do not understand. What do you mean?"
"You saw me try to talk to her. I said swell. How the hell am I supposed to carry on a conversation with a woman I can barely say anything to, let alone say anything sensible?" Tyrea gestured wildly.
"This nervousness...I don't think I've ever seen you so flustered. Why?"
"You wouldn't understand." Tyrea snarled and marched for the door.
"Because I'm so naive about the ways of love?" Melia retorted. "Because I haven't had enough experience of my own to warrant being useful to you?"
Tyrea whirled around, startled. "This isn't about you!"
"Oh, then what is it? I can't see any other reason for you not wanting to talk to your sister. Other than I'm too fragile and still recovering from my captivity." She spat.
She hadn't realized the depth of the anger that lay in her. Now, she could feel it simmering.
"It's about me. It's about the fact that Eleonora is beautiful and kind and generous and pure and I am none of those things. I am mean and heartless and vicious. I am a bastard. I am, by definition, impure! Alright? Are you happy now?" Tyrea hissed.
Melia paled as those words hit her. She opened her mouth to respond.
"Don't." Tyrea stalked out of the room, slamming the door shut behind her.
Gone was the anger, replaced with immediate guilt. Oh gods, what had she done? She'd allowed her irritation and need to best her sister get away with her. She shouldn't have pushed Tyrea. She should have ignored the whispers of her own insecurities.
Grunting, she tossed the communicator into her travel bag and began packing for the mission. Mechanically she went through the tedious business, but her mind swirled on Tyrea's words; the revelation of her sister's sense of self-worth. It made sense; Melia rationally understood how this poor self-image was weaved into Tyrea's psyche. Tyrea had no knowledge of her father. The Emperor shunned her shortly after the Second Consort died. And Tyrea's mother, the First Consort, treated her as a mere tool.
Now, it seemed Melia's actions were causing her to further sink deeper into that pit.
No. She could not let that happen. Though she was at fault, it was her responsibility as Tyrea's sister to lift her up. Melia threw on a pink tunic shirt and a pair of pants, then marched out of the room, up the stairs, and knocked on Tyrea's door.
"Go. Away." Tyrea called out.
"I will not."
"Well, I don't want to talk to you."
"Tyrea, open the door."
Silence.
"Fine. I will just address you from here then." Resolute, Melia pressed forward. "Normally, I would try to take a kinder, gentler approach, but in this case, I think what is required is what these humans call "tough love"." Melia curled her hands into fists, trying to ignore the crumpling in her stomach as she continued, "First I must apologize for my childish comment. I allowed my personal insecurities to come out in a way that was hurtful to you. It was unnecessary and foolish and you most certainly did not deserve that."
Melia felt her throat start to constrict as Tyrea's words replayed again in her ears. Taking a breath to collect her thoughts, Melia said, "Second, I take utter offense to your description of yourself. You call yourself mean and heartless. But I have witnessed time and time again your unwavering loyalty and the depths of your emotion when you fiercely and fearlessly protect those you love." Flashes of Tyrea wrapping her arms around Melia as she stole her from her prison bled through her eyes. A heartache gripped her chest, but Melia pushed against it. "You call yourself a bastard and impure but you have been nothing more than a light in my life. The one who was honest yet still comforted me when we felt all was lost. A lifeline in all of this darkness. My constant partner and friend and the only person who I felt I could be myself with for a time. And the only person who I believed cared about what became of me."
Tears dotted the sides of her eyes as memories of their childhood and adolescence flooded through her. The words danced on her tongue, sentiments she had kept close to her heart and never had shared. But if not now, when? For they were at war and death was always at their door. What was the point of keeping such secrets anymore? If she died right this minute, Tyrea would never know how deeply Melia treasured their sisterly bond. Forcing her voice not to waver, Melia added, "The only reason I did not grow up lonely was because of you. Without your friendship, without your constant presence, I would have been isolated. Despairing until my heart turned to stone."
A sniffle and Melia leaned her head against the door. "You have made me stronger, and you have made me better, Tyrea. You are one of the best I know and though they may not see it, it matters not. Because I will always be there for you."
Still no response. The princess waited, but she could hear no movement on the other side of the door. Maybe Tyrea had tuned her out and her words fell on deaf ears.
If that were the case, so be it. She would try again later.
Sighing, Melia headed down the stairs. She would finish packing, then make tea and see if that would coax Tyrea out of her room.
"Did you mean that? That I'm a light?"
Melia turned and looked up at her sister, who stood in the doorway. Her eyes were a shade red and her hair mussed.
"I meant every word, Tyrea. And if you need to hear it again, I will say it again."
"You've just never…" Tyrea looked away, hugging herself. She looked smaller than usual, less formidable. Vulnerable...a color Melia hardly ever saw on her sister. "Honestly, sometimes I think you just barely put up with me. Not that that's your fault. I know I push you on purpose."
"As I know you do so out of love."
"Well...thank you," Tyrea stared at a point past Melia. "And...thank you for your...help with Eleonora. I don't know if…" She gestured in the air. "You understand."
"Of course."
Tyrea wiped her eyes, then pivoted back into her room. "I'm bringing my grenades! You owe me!"
With a shake of her head, Melia chuckled and headed back to her room.
"What's the mission?" Dunban folded his arms over his chest, a frown etched into his face. He didn't bother to check what could be deemed as disrespect in his tone. After all, it was Vandham who had pulled him away from Melia. And to say he was unhappy about the interruption would have been an understatement.
On top of this, they were not meeting in the BLADE tower. No, this meeting was taking place in a dark corner of NLA's industrial district, amidst the shipping crates and other containers that had once filled the cargo hold of the White Whale. A graveyard of relics from an era long gone. A reminder of what they had lost and the exile they now found themselves in.
A reminder that Dunban did not need.
"A...new signal popped up on the Nav system." Vandham handed him a tablet. Dunban took it and glanced at the screen as his commander continued: "It's got our frequency but it's not a probe that we planted."
"Failsafe signature from another White Whale piece?" Dunban knew that the White Whale's architects installed transponders into each of the sections of the ship in the event they had ended up in a situation like the one they were currently in where different parts were scattered across Mira. However, he didn't know the particulars, like when these beacons would actually turn on. Maybe he should've learned more about the ship. But he had enough things to deal with.
"Yep. It's a beacon. This one was scheduled to turn on if the piece wasn't located after two months of being split from the mainframe." Vandham took a breath. "Based on the type of transponder, there's a chance it's the Lifehold."
Dunban's eyes lifted from the tablet. If he were younger, more optimistic, perhaps he would've felt the stirrings of hope within his chest. But the reality was that it was a slim chance it was the Lifehold.
As Dunban handed the tablet back to Vandham, his previous irritation disappeared and he glanced at the BLADE tower, specifically at the numbers emblazoned on the side of its silver facade. 56. Less than two months until the Lifehold's power reserves would fail and the inhabitants would die in stasis.
"We'll leave as soon as possible."
"Good." Vandham breathed, though the troubled expression did not leave his face.
That was peculiar. Vandham wasn't one to show emotion — past anger, joy, and hunger. "How are you?"
"You ain't my therapist."
"No. But I'm your friend."
Vandham snorted, and his eyes darted to the ground. The big man shifted from side to side before he looked up again. "Look, eh, I don't really like talkin' 'bout this shit. But...it's gettin' real hard, Dunban. Real hard to stay positive these days. We got a whole buncha people we gotta find on top of makin' sure we survive ourselves. We got these aliens after us, and were on this planet we don't know nothin' 'bout. I just…" He ran a hand through his hair. "I'm just tired of seein' people die."
The words echoed in his ears. They had worked together for five years but known each other for over a decade. Dunban could count on his hands the number of times Vandham had shown any glimmer of vulnerability. It only meant that he was truly struggling. Even the strongest had a breaking point.
Dunban placed a hand on his friend's shoulder. Any more would be too much. And what words could he offer the bigger man when he felt the exact same thing? It was all too much.
They stood for a moment in companionable silence. "Right. Well." Vandham cleared his throat and Dunban dropped his hand. "This mission is need ta know, meaning Elma, me, and Nagi. So when ya get there, ya only call one of our radios."
"Understood. We'll need a cover story too."
"Oh yeah, erm…." Vandham grimaced. "Not mah strong suit."
Gnawing on his lip, Dunban thought back to his conversations with his team over the past few days. A lightbulb clicked on in his mind. There was an obvious choice and one that would kill two birds with one stone. Otherwise, he would never get approval to visit. He could hear Maurice saying, "A pile of stones is hardly worth our time and a waste of resources." Fighting a smirk, Dunban suggested, "We could visit Frontier Village. Make it a diplomatic mission."
"That works. Talk ta Sarona and Dart about gettin' the list of items we have that we can trade."
"Alright. I'll alert the team." Dunban pulled out his communicator.
The morning came and went with the team busy with preparations for the journey, but at half past noon, everyone gathered by the West gate, packing up the speeder, ready to head out. That was, his BLADE team was ready. Tyrea and Melia were nowhere to be found.
Of course, when he'd left the house that morning, Melia had resumed her usual impassivity. He had no doubt it was to conceal her annoyance at the interruption but also concern about the mystery missive. But he had thought that she would come to send him off when he sent her a message about his impending departure.
Yet she had not responded. Dunban glanced down at his communicator, looking at the time. They couldn't afford to wait much longer. Perhaps he should message her again.
"We were wondering where you were!" Fiora exclaimed.
Dunban glanced up from the screen to see the High Entian vehicle slide up alongside the speeder, Tyrea at the wheel, and Melia in the passenger seat. "You have your preparations, we have ours," Tyrea dismissed through the rolled-down window. His eyes focused on Melia, who was dressed in her battle armor.
"You're coming with us?" Reyn asked.
"Oh, are we not invited?"
"That's not what I meant!" Reyn backtracked. "The VITA...and stuff…."
"I've given them instructions to contact me with updates regarding their progress," Melia explained, leaning forward towards Tyrea's window to be better heard.
"And she didn't want to let him out of her sight," Tyrea added, nodding at Dunban.
"Tyrea!" Melia's cheeks reddened but Tyrea only snickered.
Dunban struggled to keep his own countenance neutral, but a smirk crept onto his lips. A pleased smirk.
"This subject is closed," Melia announced and pulled away from the window.
"She gets so pouty when she's embarrassed."
As Fiora and Sharla began a game of rock-paper-scissors to see who would ride with the High Entia, Dunban rounded the vehicle to Melia's side. Arms crossed over her chest, she averted her eyes when he stopped in front of her window. "I cannot look at you right now."
"Melia, there's nothing to be embarrassed about." He gently placed his fingers under her chin and guided her face back to his. "In fact, I'm flattered that you care about my wellbeing enough to come on this trip."
"Yes, well, it is our responsibility as allies to support your endeavors." She sniffed.
"Oh? Is that all? This is purely a political decision?"
The princess twitched her nose back and forth in embarrassed frustration. Another of her mannerisms that he immediately found adorable. "No, of course not."
He glanced left, then right. Satisfied no one was watching, he leaned in and kissed her. It was quick but as their lips brushed, electricity sparked through his body, surging through his bloodstream. A raw desire roared within him as he pressed his lips to hers, reveling in their softness. But it was over too soon as he pulled away, immediately craving the feel of her body against his.
"What...what was that for?" She managed, breathy and dazed.
He caressed her cheek, "I'm just glad you're coming. I'll see you in a few hours."
She swallowed and nodded. Dunban walked back towards the speeder, glancing once over his shoulder to see Melia watching him, a shy smile painted on her mouth. As he slid into the seat next to Shulk, it occurred to him that he would never get tired of seeing that smile. And furthermore, that the thought didn't scare him.
As the speeder zoomed across Primorida, the sun shining overhead, passing by a group of Millesaurs grazing, Dunban realized that the safest place for him was in fact outside of NLA. He wouldn't have to worry about Maurice's machinations. And the fact that Maurice was not privy to the details of his mission meant he was truly secure from the madman's reach. The irony didn't escape him that he was choosing the unknown wilderness of Mira over the sanctuary of NLA. But the more and more time he spent on Mira, the less he felt overwhelmed by its unknown nature.
Despite the breath of fresh air, a wave of disappointment quickly flooded through him once the team neared the mission site after a few hours of traveling. Although he had known the prospect of discovering the Lifehold was minimal, the urgency burned within him. However, upon seeing the section of the White Whale wedged into the soil, Dunban knew it was not the Lifehold.
After an hour of unlocking the section and connecting to its computer, Shulk determined it was an archival facility of some kind. Once Dunban radioed Vandham with the news, the team took time to stretch their legs and wait for the BLADE officers stationed at the nearest base camp to arrive and take over. Fiora insisted the group engage in a game to make the most of the break, which ended up being a surprisingly spirited game of Duck Duck Goose that had Tyrea and Reyn locked in an unlikely rivalry, ending with Riki somehow getting the better of both of them (the Nopon was quite wiley when he needed to be). After another hour, their relief team arrived and Dunban and his team departed for Frontier Village.
It was just after dusk when they arrived at the home of the Nopon, the remnants of the sunset still streaking across the canopy that protected Frontier Village from the sky above. Their arrival caused a bit of an upheaval to Dunban's dismay. Nopon ran to and fro to accommodate their guests while Oka took Riki to the side to give him an earful about not providing some heads up concerning their arrival.
Although Dunban did his best to assure the Nopon that no extra or preferential treatment was needed, the Nopon were happy to set his team up one of the landings for the night and share supplies for bedding and freshwater. Eventually, Dunban managed to secure an audience with Chief Dunga and they were ushered up the tree to the Chief's residence. As they reached the landing, Dunban saw the old Nopon already seated upon a polished boulder, awaiting them.
"Welcome, friends." Dunga clapped his paws together.
"Thank you. We apologize for arriving without any notice," Dunban answered as he and the others took seats on the ground in a circular fashion around the chieftain.
Dunga waved his paws in the air dismissively. "Dunga not worried. Homs always welcome." He looked at Melia and Tyrea curiously. "It first time Bird People appear to Nopon."
"Yes, and I apologize for that Chief Dunga. We did not mean to offend." Melia answered. "I am Princess Melia Antiqua and this is my sister Tyrea."
Quiet, Dunga studied her, then turned back to Dunban. "How Chief Dunga help?"
Momentarily, Dunban wondered if he should try to facilitate a friendship between the High Entia and the Nopon, but he could see an imperceptible shake of Melia's head. It seemed she would address this later.
Without further hesitation, he launched into descriptions of the various stone monuments that he and Melia had encountered in Noctilum and Oblivia, as well as the inscription on the one in Oblivia. As he spoke, Chief Dunga's brow furrowed. "Do you know what they are?" Dunban asked when he finished.
Dunga stroked his beard, brow knit in concentration. After several minutes of silence, the Nopon shook his head. "Dunga not know of what you speak."
"Chief not know?" Riki gaped in disbelief.
"Even some secrets Dunga not know." The Nopon mused. "But maybe Sage know answer of mysterious stones."
"Who is this Sage?" Dunban said.
"Sage over thousand years old," Riki explained. "Sage know everything about Nopon history."
"That not quite true," Dunga interjected. "It not known how old Sage be. Dunga believe Sage know answer to Homs' question."
"Is the Sage here?" Dunban followed up.
Dunga shook his head.
"Of course not. It would be too easy then." Tyrea grumbled.
Fiora elbowed the High Entia, who sniffed and looked away, only to meet Melia's glare.
"Sage live in caves north. Dunga provide map for friends. Make journey in morning, be there midday."
While it wasn't the answer he was hoping for, at least they had a lead. "Thank you, Chief Dunga. Your help is greatly appreciated." Dunban inclined his head and rose to his feet. The others followed suit. It was evening and he didn't want to impose more than he already had on the Chief's time.
"Chief Dunga? May I have a few minutes of your time? I would like to discuss a possible treaty between our peoples." Melia spoke, perfect poise in her stance.
Chief Dunga eyed her, not with suspicion, but what Dunban could only classify as skepticism. Still, he nodded.
As Dunban and his team left Melia and Chief Dunga to their discussion, a surge of disappointment bubbled within him. He had hoped there was a simple explanation behind these rock monuments but it seemed like any other puzzle on this planet. One full of twists and turns. He was tired of it. Couldn't one thing be straightforward?
As the team set up camp, a river of exhaustion swam through Dunban, trickling into his muscles and weighing down his shoulders. Would the visit to the Sage be another dead end? Or would they gain some sort of answer?
Did it even matter?
Quickly, he excused himself to radio NLA, descending through the tree and heading back out to the speeder. He knew better than to stick around as this darkness grew within. He didn't need his team to see his sudden malaise.
The call was quick, confirming they'd arrived at Frontier Village. They'd spend another day with the Nopon (Dunban didn't mention the visit to the Sage) and then return to NLA the following day. But as he disassembled the radio and stared up at the night sky, at the infinite stars that dotted the black expanse, a voice in his mind once again asked what the point of all this was.
For the first time since touching down on Mira, Dunban felt increasingly pessimistic about the future. Yes, he had leveled his expectations regarding the mission today but the confirmation of that disappointment didn't make it any better. Were they going to find the Lifehold in time? Could they survive against the Ganglion if they didn't? Did they have adequate resources even if they did? Was there enough hope alive within the ranks to continue the fight should the Lifehold be lost to them?
Or would they destroy themselves first?
If he didn't continue to fight, Maurice would almost certainly instigate a coup, abolish the BLADE council and declare himself the sole leader of the White Whale survivors. A dictator of a few. Then they would be lost.
And what of Emperor Sorean? What of his designs and how he was somehow using Melia to further his own agenda despite agreeing to an alliance with the humans? Dunban didn't know what intrigues the High Entia had planned, but something told him that he would never be able to trust Melia's father's motives.
Though it made him uneasy, it did not stain his feelings for Melia and their relationship.
Melia.
She appeared well these past few days. Sleeping together seemed to have helped her in terms of catching up on much-needed rest. But he knew better. Victims of traumatic events, especially prisoners of war — their scars ran deep. He wasn't deluding himself into thinking she was fine. Cured completely. Or that the ordeal hadn't changed her. Already she was a little more forward with her actions. Near-death experiences had that effect on people. Making them less afraid to pursue things they wanted. He'd been in those situations before. That's why he was the way he was. Straightforward. Direct.
That wasn't what he was concerned about.
He glanced at his communicator. An hour had gone by. He wasn't one to waste time and allow his thoughts to wander but even he needed time away to just sit and breathe. Even if they were breaths filled with unease. He always had to be something for everyone and there were some times he needed to be nothing for no one. Just be. Just for himself.
With a grunt, he pulled himself up and headed back into Frontier Village. As Dunban ascended the tree, noting how the Nopon were filing into their homes for the night, lights turning out one by one, he passed by one of the landings that led to a balcony overlooking the dark forest. His pace slowed as he realized the two occupying the space were none other than Fiora and Shulk. They sat side by side, admiring the night sky. Their hands barely centimeters from one another.
Shulk leaned over and whispered into Fiora's ear. She giggled, sliding her hand on top of his.
It appeared they'd finally found their way to one another. Not wanting to intrude on their privacy — though he would have every right given how Fiora had barged in on him and Melia the previous day — he continued making his way up the tree, finally arriving at their camp. Sharla, Reyn, and Tyrea were eating the dinner Oka had brought them. Riki was spending time with his family (though Tyrea mused he looked more like he was being kidnapped when Oka had hauled him off). Melia had yet to return from her meeting with Chief Dunga.
He forced himself to make small talk with the others. It surprised him to see Sharla's spirits lighter, but he supposed that mainly had to do with being away from NLA and Gadot. It was easier to breathe when one was distracted. When you didn't have your demons staring you in the face and breathing down your neck.
Morning came as it always did. And as Dunban announced the team should begin prepping to make the trip to the Sage's cave, Fiora bounded over to him.
"I was thinking actually while you go visit the Sage, I could plant a probe on the peninsula that's a few miles away. You know, score some extra points with my division head." Fiora explained. "I'd need Shulk's help too. Just in case I need an extra set of hands or something."
Was this a joke?
Before Dunban could respond, Reyn appeared next to Fiora, grimacing. "Sir, I'm not feeling well. I was wondering if maybe I could just...wait here for the day?"
"He ate one of those pollen things," Sharla revealed, coming up beside Reyn. "I'll stay back to keep an eye on him."
"Oh, and Riki said he had to help Oka with some stuff today," Fiora added. "Family stuff."
"Really?"
"I dunno, it must be really important!" Fiora's eyes widened. Dunban noticed the slight elevation in her pitch.
"I see." He mused, then glanced towards the two High Entia who were in quiet conversation. "Are you both ready to head out?" He called.
"I'm not coming. Riki and I are going to kill some monsters or something." Tyrea shrugged.
He looked back at Fiora, with raised eyebrows. "I thought Oka had Riki busy."
"I mean, he's probably doing family stuff in the morning…?" Fiora trailed off.
"Just to be clear, you are all bad liars."
"I really don't feel well though," Reyn mumbled, clutching his stomach.
"I've got some Pepto. Maybe that will help." Sharla said and led him to her pack.
"You're going to see a Sage. Nothing is going to happen!" Fiora pouted and crossed her arms over her chest. "I'm just trying to help you out." She wiggled her eyebrows.
He snorted but his eyes traveled over to Melia, who seemed unaware of the scheme that Fiora and the team had cooked up as she packed her things for the journey. It wasn't exactly the beach date he promised, and they had to be careful, but it would be nice to just have time for the two of them. He hadn't had a chance to talk to her last night since she'd come back late and promptly went to sleep. And he'd missed her presence sleeping next to him.
But the whole idea was irresponsible. There was always a chance they would encounter danger, whether that was the Ganglion or a hungry beast. No, it wasn't an option, no matter how much he would've liked it to be. Strength in numbers.
He shook his head. "Load up. We're heading out."
Fiora rolled her eyes and huffed. "I'll go find Riki."
She wasn't the only one annoyed at his sense of responsibility right now.
As the team prepped the speeder for the day trip to the Sage's cave, Tyrea enlightened Melia on Fiora's attempt to send her brother and Melia out on their own. The princess's first instinct was to turn red. And she did.
Once that had passed, Melia gave it a second thought and a sense of disappointment crept through her. Yes, she knew it was not responsible or wise for Dunban and her to go gallivanting around the continent on their own, especially with the enemy out there. Nevertheless...
There was no point in pursuing that train of thought.
She pushed her displeasure to the side, favoring another topic that had taken up residence in her mind that morning. A matter that gave her a fresh wave of shame. She'd been so concentrated on her relationship with Dunban and her own struggles that she'd completely forgotten about her brother.
It was selfish. And intolerable.
Once she finished packing, Melia stepped to the side and fished out her communicator. Her fingers blazed over the keypad as she typed a quick message to Kallian.
Good morning, brother. I am sorry to bother you, but when you have a moment, could you please update me on Ellison's status?
Immediately her communicator buzzed in response.
It's no bother, Melia. You know that.
It was kind of him to say so, but Melia knew how busy Kallian must be, with her taking up an indefinite residence in NLA. Their father would be assigning him all sorts of duties that she and he would have previously shared. She hoped he was getting enough rest. Hastily, she responded: I don't know what duties father has assigned you these days, so I don't wish to burden you. But I would appreciate any new information you have.
As far as I know, there's no change. Ellison is currently at the Roost, though yesterday he flew to the south. But he was back in a few hours.
At least he is enjoying his freedom.
Is there something bothering you, sister?
Melia chewed on her lip. Her previous message was too quick. She knew better than to make such comments around Kallian. He always saw through them. And she was never quite certain how much she could divulge to him that he would report back to their father.
Anything you say to me will stay in confidence.
As if he'd read her mind. Clearly, he was concerned about her, to the point he was willing to resist their father to keep her confidence. Years ago, Melia had been open and honest with Kallian, before Emperor Sorean had put them at odds, forcing their loyalty to him to supersede their sibling relationship.
It would be a lie to say Melia didn't miss that closeness with her older brothers. And now with one gone…
She had already shared with Dunban her dreams. Giving Kallian such information would hardly make her vulnerable should he give that knowledge to her father.
Strangely though, Melia didn't believe he would. Not this time.
I have trouble sleeping. After my capture.
That is completely understandable. What you went through was traumatic, Melia. You need to heal from that. Do you want to talk about it?
Her fingers hovered over the keypad, twitching to respond. Eager for once to be truthful about what she was experiencing. The creatures that haunted day and night.
Yet, an image of him speaking with Sorean flashed before her eyes. Her pulse quickened and she could just hear her father berating her for revealing such weakness to anyone. A frown passed over her features and her fingers moved slowly, resigned as they pressed the letters on the keypad.
Not at this time, but I appreciate the offer.
Her stomach crumpled in on itself. No, today would not be the day that she would share the truth of her condition.
Do not fear, Melia. You're the strongest of us all.
That is kind of you to say, but I sincerely doubt that.
I do not. I don't believe that any of your siblings, myself included, would be as functional as you are after such a near-death experience.
You ride into battle often.
Battle and being at the mercy of your enemy are two different things. You know this. I for one admire your strength and resilience.
Melia's brow furrowed. But she wasn't strong. She wasn't resilient. She was still affected by what had happened.
I don't know who you're messaging but tell them you need to go. As the Homs say, "we're burning daylight!" Tyrea's voice echoed in Melia's mind.
Melia pursed her lips and shook her head, typing off a farewell message to Kallian. Stay well, brother.
Speak soon, sister.
The drive to the spot that Chief Dunga marked on their map took an hour, during which Melia listened to Sharla and Tyrea exchange tales of battle and stories from their military academy experience (or in Sharla's case — "Basic Training"). The princess hadn't realized how experienced Sharla was in the art of war. And these stories were a wonderful distraction from Melia's own thoughts. However, when they arrived, Melia felt her previous sense of unease float back into the forefront of her mind. In the corners of her eyes, she looked for the dead-eyed Prone and Goetia, to see if either one would make an appearance.
It seemed they were biding their time.
After disembarking from the High Entia vehicle, Melia, Sharla, and Tyrea joined the others at the foot of the mountain, where a large patch of rock had been broken away to create an entrance into the mountain's insides. Though the entrance was vast and wide — it looked as though a creature had bit into the very rock of the slope — only darkness greeted them. It was impossible to see where the path led.
"I guess that's where we're going?" Fiora grimaced.
"What? Afraid of the dark?" Tyrea jeered.
"No! It's just...there are probably...bugs...in there."
Melia wrinkled her nose.
"Looks like you're not alone in that worry, Fiora." Sharla laughed, catching Melia's expression.
"Friends no worry. Riki make friends with bugs." And Riki lumbered inside.
"Riki, wait!" Reyn called, but the Nopon disappeared into the blackness. Sighing, Reyn looked at the others. "I guess we're going…?"
Dunban nodded. "Be on your guard."
One by one they followed the Heropon into the cave. In the pitch black, Melia summoned a flame that scattered the darkness so they could see. The pathway was narrow and they were forced to walk in a single-file in order to travel without stepping on one another. The air was wet and stale.
For a half-hour they trekked into the dark. Melia kept her eyes on Tyrea's head, afraid if she were to look anywhere else, she would see ghosts reaching out to hurt her.
"Hey, look!" Reyn exclaimed, his voice booming off the stone walls. Up ahead a small ray of light filtered into the cavernous corridor.
"Thank god," Fiora murmured.
They made their way towards what they hoped was the exit, and one by one passed through the opening. A crisp breeze hit Melia's cheek as she emerged from the mountain, and she could feel the warmth from the sun above. A breath of relief escaped her. It was good to be in the open again.
Cautiously, she took in their surroundings. The passageway appeared to have led them to an amphitheater, at which they stood at the top. There were many flights of weather-worn stone stairs leading down to the stage. And in the center, on a stone dais, sat a blue Nopon with a long, white beard.
"I think we found our sage." Sharla mused.
"Let's go." Dunban agreed.
Riki wasted no time and barreled down the nearest stairwell, the group following behind him. When they arrived at the bottom, Melia noticed that the blue Nopon appeared to be...sleeping?
"Someone has to wake him up. We didn't come all this way for nothing." Tyrea grumbled.
Melia shot her a glare but she merely rolled her eyes.
The Sage opened one eye. "Who disturbs sacred meditation time?"
"Heropon and friends!" Riki beamed, dancing between his stubby legs.
The Sage opened the other eye and scrutinized the group. Melia had the distinct feeling that the Sage was less than pleased to be disturbed.
She stepped forward and bowed. "Gracious Nopon Sage. We have been sent by Chief Dunga to ask for your guidance." She glanced at Dunban and he stepped forward, producing the letter from Chief Dunga and offering it to the Sage. "I am Princess Melia Antiqua of the High Entia and this is Captain Dunban of the humans of NLA."
Muttering incoherently, the Sage took and studied it, reading the missive's contents thoroughly. Then promptly set it to the side.
"Hom Hom and Bird Ones must prove selves. Must be worthy of information they seeking." The Sage crossed his paws over his chest.
That was...unexpected. "How may we do that, your grace?" Melia answered.
"One Bird One and one Hom Hom must answer question. Cannot lie. Sage know."
"What kind of question?"
"To see true intentions. To see hearts. Chief Dunga trusts but Sage not know you. Sage only reveal secret knowledge to worthy."
A question. It was deceiving in its simplicity. It would be silly to think that the question would be as simple as what was her favorite color or what she ate for breakfast on her 18th birthday. The High Entia would be on her guard. But she couldn't lie.
It was only one question. How hard could it be?
"I will stand for my people," Melia stated.
"And I will stand for mine," Dunban said.
The Sage closed his eyes and hummed a low tone. A faint green light surrounded his blue body. Melia recognized it immediately: his ether signature. The air electrified around them; she could feel the ether surging through the air currents, invisible but alive.
She met Dunban's eyes and could see his alarm. Melia shook her head, a subtle sign to stand down. Slowly, he nodded. Whatever the Sage was doing, she knew it was not designed to hurt them, but only to facilitate the test.
Closing her eyes, Melia felt the threads of the Sage's ether reach out to her. She touched them with her own, establishing a telepathic connection between them. With the Sage plugged into the ether stream of her body, he would be able to detect any lies she told.
The Sage spoke in Melia's mind. "Princess Melia. What was worst day of life?"
Everything turned cold inside of her. The answer was easy — she knew it immediately. But Melia had no interest in revisiting the memory. All the pain and despair. The loneliness that had overwhelmed her. Yet she could feel the Sage's ether connection, waiting, watching to see what she would do. To see if she would lie.
This was a cruel sort of torture. Her father would approve of the Sage's methods; it was his own philosophy as well. The simplest way to understand someone's heart was to reveal what could cause them immense, unrelenting pain. To see what they treasured and how they reacted when it was ripped away from them. To know their weakness in the event there was a need to exploit it.
Her mind flipped through the trove of painful memories, past the destruction of her planet, the transformation of Ellison, multiple condemnations from her stepmother, her first fight with Tyrea, the rejection from Ferdinand, finally landing on the one the Sage sought. The day her mother died.
Melia's mother lay in her bed, face pallid, sweat droplets dotting her forehead. The healer that stood over her murmured, a frown lining his mouth. The human woman simply smiled, weakly shook her head, and whispered words of thanks. The healer bowed and left the room, passing a young, adolescent Melia, who leaned against the doorframe.
"Come here, my dearest." Her mother called, her beautiful voice just above a whisper.
Melia rushed to her mother's side, unable to meet her eyes, heart pounding as she neared.
"Melia, please don't look away."
Slowly, the princess lifted her gaze. Her ice blue irises took in her mother's sickly countenance: the hollowed-out cheeks, the bags under her eyes, the cracks in her lips. Her mother had always been a bright light, full of joy and energy, and love. Now, with each passing second, it dimmed.
Everything in the young princess screamed at her to run away. To hide from this display of death. Yet her legs kept her rooted in the spot.
"I'm sorry you have to see me like this."
"No, mother, please do not think anything of that," Melia begged.
"Fear not, this shall not happen to you. Your High Entian genes are stronger than this illness." She coughed. "You have so much life ahead of you. I'm sorry I will not be there to see it."
A lump grew in Melia's throat and she reached out and took her mother's hand. "Is there nothing that can be done?"
"No, my child. Your father and I knew this day would come eventually." She gave Melia's hand a soft squeeze.
Tears dotted the edges of Melia's eyes.
"Will you promise me something?"
"Anything, mother."
The older woman coughed again. Melia fumbled for the glass of water on the end table and brought it to her mother's lips, carefully helping her to drink. When her mother pulled away, Melia replaced the glass and turned back to the woman expectantly.
With a haggard breath, she resumed. "Your father, he will feel my death. Please do not judge him too much. Be a helpful daughter. Be an obedient one in his times of trial. I know that he treasures you and wants what is best for your future. He may feel distant at times, but know that you are so loved and so cherished."
The lump in Melia's throat grew. Tears trickled down her cheeks. "I will, mother."
She reached up and touched Melia's cheek. "I wish I could be there for you. I am so sorry."
Melia bit her lip as a sob raced up her throat and leaned into her mother's touch.
"Wherever I go after this life, know that I am always there for you. Always watching. Always loving you."
"I love you too," Melia whispered.
The clapping of footsteps reached her ears and the princess startled, jerking away from her mother and wiping the tears from her eyes. Turning, she saw her father, standing in the doorway.
Swallowing, she looked back at her mother, who gave her a small smile and nod.
"Goodby, mother."
"Goodbye, dearest."
Melia bent and kissed her mother's forehead, then scurried towards the door.
She paused next to her father, but he did not notice, his gaze solely trained on the dying woman. Melia reached out and lay her hand on his arm, but he did not react.
With one last glance at her mother, Melia slid out of the room and fled down the hall, her heartbreaking with each step.
The Sage's ether connection withdrew. Melia opened her eyes just as the Sage opened his. The green aura surrounding him disappeared. And for the first time, he smiled. "I see hearts. You are true. I help you with what seek."
Yet Melia found herself unable to muster any words, the memory of her mother's dying words still ringing in her head. Dunban launched into the explanation of the way posts that he and Melia had seen, the ancient Samaarian carved on them, and the howling noises they made. But Melia could not focus, still spiraling on the promise she'd made to her mother so many years ago.
"You speak of The Gateway." The Sage explained, forcing Melia out of her reverie. She had to concentrate. After all, this was their reward for bearing their souls.
"A gateway to what?"
"Prison Island." The Sage revealed. "It Samaarian prison. Hold Samaarian library too. Many many books. Records of entire civilization."
"How does the gateway work? Where is this Prison Island?"
The Sage shook his head. "Way posts are key. Four on Mira. Together create gateway. Must be activated."
"Four of them...We found one in Noctilum, one in Oblivia. Do you know where the other two are?" Dunban furrowed his brow.
"Primordia. Sylvalum. Somewhere you find. Activation, no one know."
Even if it wasn't a full picture, it was more information than they had to begin with. Had it been worth the price?
"Sage rest now." The Nopon yawned. "Come again if need."
"Thank you for your time." Dunban bowed and he turned away to exit the amphitheater. The others followed and began to climb out, back towards the mountain pass.
But a needling anxiety scraped at her nerves. Melia stopped at the foot of the stairs, whirled around, and headed for the Nopon. Stopping in front of the Sage, she bowed once more. "Great Sage. May I ask, who is the prison for?"
"One forgotten by time." The Sage responded and turned away.
Dunban split off from the team to radio NLA for the daily check-in, leaving the others at the speeder. Melia watched them talk from the outskirts, her mind reeling from the encounter with the Sage.
"So...lunch?" Reyn clapped his hands together.
"Do you think about anything other than food?" Fiora rolled her eyes.
"Maybe we could stop off at a nice spot on the way back to Frontier Village," Shulk said. "Take the scenic route."
"Do you have any places you like to visit, Riki?" Sharla asked.
"Riki know many spots! Riki take to favorite." Riki flashed a thumbs up at them.
"What's wrong?" Tyrea murmured as she neared Melia.
"It doesn't matter." The Princess looked away.
"Can we skip the part where you withhold and get straight to the telling me please? I'm too hungry and bored for this dance today."
Tyrea, always cutting straight to the heart of the matter.
"Is it about the question the Sage asked you?"
"I don't wish to discuss it."
"Of course." Tyrea snorted. "Because not talking about it is doing you so well."
"Leave it alone."
"Oh, so I should let you stew in your own anguish?" Tyrea tilted her head to the side, studying her sister with her dark eyes. "Torture yourself because of some sadist's price?"
She didn't have the energy to shut down. She didn't have the resilience to keep it all in. The emotional upheaval had obliterated her abilities to keep her composure. And the words were out of her mouth before she could stop them.
"For your information, he asked about the worst day of my life." Melia hissed. "And I had to relive the death of my mother. So thank you for your constant needling."
Tyrea frowned, softening. "Melia, I know that it was hard when we lost her—"
"You have no idea!" Melia snapped. "You returned home for the funeral and promptly went back to the Academy. I had nowhere to escape to. I was stuck there. I was forced to remain in the palace where every corner I turned, some memory of her appeared. And my father refused to see me. The First Consort shunned me. Kallian and Ellison were away on assignment. And I was alone!"
Her eyes shined with unshed tears as the fury ripped through her throat. In the back of her mind, she noticed the Homs' conversation had ceased, but the emotion barreled out of her, unstoppable.
"I cried myself to sleep every night for six months. Hardly anyone spoke to me save for the servants, who were forced to out of responsibility. For they were all taking direction from my father, who apparently — as I learned from one of the servants — couldn't bear the sight of me because I reminded him of my mother."
"I didn't know..." Tyrea whispered, averting her eyes.
"Of course not! I didn't want to burden you." Melia snarled. "And the worst part of all of it? I allowed it to happen. I was an active, willing participant in my own exile. Because I promised my mother to be a perfect daughter and mind my father. To support him in his trials. I believed that I had to be silent and bear it because she had asked me to. And now I have broken that promise!"
"We need to leave," Dunban called out as he jogged up. His eyes swept over the scene, taking in the emotional expressions between Melia and Tyrea. "What's going on?"
"Nothing of import." The princess declared, voice devoid of emotion, her mask of neutrality smoothing back into place.
He frowned but continued: "The transmission with NLA cut off halfway through. We need to head back now."
The vehicles raced through the Noctilum landscape, over the open plains, and through the dense forests, never stopping. The occupants of both were silent: a dread anticipation hung in the air as the hours crawled by. What awaited them in NLA?
They passed the border into Primorida as the sun set and a half-hour later they were closing in on the city. Dunban could feel his stomach dropping with each mile they completed.
As they crested over the final hill that would lead to a straight shot to NLA, the dark sky changed to a fiery orange.
A gasp came from behind his seat. But his eyes were focused on the scene in front of him.
NLA was ablaze.
