A/N: Hey, guys! In the previous chapter, Banon concocted a plan to defeat the Empire: an alliance with the Espers, and he needed Terra for his purpose. She opened the portal that separates the Esper World from the human world, but Kefka waited for the moment, and the Esper attacked Vector, while the Blackjack crashed near Maranda. What will happen now? Let's find out! I apologize if it took me so long to write this chapter, but since I'm in the last year, I will have to take my matura, and my turn will be on Friday, June 25 at 9 AM. A trailer for Final Fantasy Pixel Collection, which includes the first six Final Fantasy games, was recently announced, and I noticed some new sprites similar to the SNES-style ones that were used in Final Fantasy Record Keeper. It will be released in 2022 for PC and mobile devices, but in the future, it could also be released for consoles. Anyway, I've made you wait long enough, so let's get started!

Chapter 18: Dinner with Emperor Gestahl

(''Scent of Silence- Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories OST'')

After the crash near Maranda, Terra and the others woke up in the late afternoon. ''Are you all okay?'' Setzer asked.

''Yeah, I think so.'' Edgar replied.

''We're alright, but not as good with Gau. He is badly injured and is still unconscious from previous burns and the fight with Kefka.'' Sabin said, looking at Gau, worried about him.

''If he's passed out, I don't think there's anything to worry about. Nothing a little white magic can't fix. Look.'' Terra said, preparing to cast white magic. ''Raise!''

Gau's body was surrounded by a white light, and an angel above him released sparks that made him regain consciousness. Seeing Sabin, he licked his face, taking him by surprise. ''Hey! What are you...'' he exclaimed, annoyed that his face was soaked in saliva, but seeing the boy curl up on his chest, he understood and hugged him. ''I get it. You like me, don't you?'' he asked, and Gau nodded.

''At least Gau is OK.'' Locke commented.

''Gau seems to have grown fond of you, little brother.'' Edgar said.

Sabin nodded. ''You know, Gau, Cyan was really worried about you. Kefka hit you in the head with a mace and attacked you after you bit his arm, and you fainted from your injuries.'' he told Cyan.

Gau walked over to Cyan and licked his face, shocking him. ''What-what-what-what... why...?'' he stammered.

''I think he has grown fond of us, Cyan. I think I understand. When he licks someone's face, it's his way of showing affection. After all, he doesn't know human civilization very well.'' the martial artist explained.

''Sir Gau... I am happy to see that you are well. After what I've been through, I don't want to lose anyone else. I shall always protect thee.'' Cyan said.

Gau affectionately licked Cyan's face once more, put his head on his shoulder and hugged him tightly. ''Cyan ... thank you...'' he murmured.

The samurai stiffened, not feeling comfortable with displays of affection, but since he only cared that this kid was okay, he shook off that feeling and stroked his emerald hair. ''Okay, okay, I get it, you like me. I like you too. Now, could you please let me go?'' he asked, and Gau broke away.

Sabin looked at them and smiled. ''Cyan, does Gau remind you of anyone?'' he asked.

''Yes. When I look at it, it reminds me so much of my son. Owain... he has always embodied my spirit, and he loved spending time with me, whether it be for sword fighting lessons, playing, or fishing. The first time around, he didn't really understand the usefulness of fishing, but then it became one of his favorite activities. Even though I loved my wife dearly, it was so hard for me to tell him, and he had to encourage me to do so. Heck, I remember when I asked Elayne's hand, I was so embarrassed, I stammered constantly and I was all red, but despite my difficulty in showing my true feelings towards her, he understood that it was not easy for me to express them, and she was very patient. On the contrary, when I spent time with Owain, I showed my emotions more openly. We laughed, we joked, I held him in my arms, I kissed his forehead when I tucked him to bed... oh, if he had survived... then he would have become a great warrior.(1)'' Cyan explained sadly.

''Sorry to interrupt this tearjerking scene, but we have things to do.'' Locke said.

''I think I made a mess ... the Espers I let out are destroying everything...'' Terra complained, thinking calling other Espers to help was a bad idea.

''No, no, Terra, it's not your fault. You did your best.'' Edgar replied.

''You did what you had to do. At least they will attack the Empire.'' Sabin added, trying to find the bright side of it.

''The Blackjack is badly damaged. I'll have to stay here for maintenance.'' Setzer said.

''Setzer, is this airship really yours?'' Locke asked.

''Of course it's mine. Some time ago, there was another airship, the fastest of all. It was the Falcon, and it belonged to my friend Darill. She loved challenges and pushing herself to her limits, but due to a crash, I never saw her again, and the Falcon was destroyed. That's since I started gambling, and the scars on my face are from bad bets. '' the gambler replied in a sad tone.

''I see. I'm sorry.'' Edgar said.

''It doesn't matter. I'll stay here to fix the airship. In the meantime, you will have already discovered something about what is going on. Good luck.'' Setzer replied, and the group set off.

(Setzer has left the group.)

(''Scent of Silence- Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories OST-s'')

(''Under Martial Law- Final Fantasy VI OST'')

(Objective: Check if the Espers have done any damage in the southern continent and reach Vector.)

Characters:

Terra

Locke

Mog

Edgar

Sabin

Cyan

Gau

The Returners went to Maranda, and saw several Imperial soldiers walking around the city. ''Let's not get caught or they'll kill us.'' Locke said, and the group, after avoiding the guards, stumbled upon a house and hid behind it, as Sabin and Cyan entered.

Inside the house, the two saw a young blond-haired woman wandering around the house. ''Why don't you reply to my letters...? Did something happen to him?'' she murmured.

Sabin and Cyan exchanged glances. They were thinking of the wounded soldier in Mobliz, and the warrior monk had a feeling that she was the girl he was talking about, Lola. ''You're Lola, aren't you?'' he asked.

The girl was caught off guard and looked at the two men who had entered. ''Yes, it's me.'' she replied. ''So, my beloved told you about me? How is he?'' she then asked.

''We met him a few days ago. He had deserted the Empire during the siege of Doma, and had probably talked to General Leo about his decision to leave the army, but the other soldiers ambushed him.'' Sabin replied.

''Ever since my boyfriend was forced to join the Empire, we only communicate through letters, but I haven't heard from him for days.'' Lola said, very worried. ''Is he dead?''

''Worry not, Lady Lola. He was injured during his escape, but he managed to take refuge in the village of Mobliz and is resting. He wanted to write you a letter personally, but he was so hurt he couldn't hold the pen, so we stayed close to him for a while, at least long enough for him to read a letter you sent him. I am sure he will live.'' Cyan replied.

The young woman was still worried, but she seemed calmer. ''I understand. At least he won't die of his wounds. You see, ever since Maranda was conquered by the Empire, young adults have been forced to be a part of it, including my beloved. I worry a lot about him, but knowing he's still alive comforts me.'' she said.

''Good. Sorry to bother you, but we really have to go. I wouldn't want anyone to catch us.'' the warrior monk said.

''Actually, you two have brought me relief. Thank you for visiting.'' Lola replied.

''OK. Maybe we'll meet again someday.'' Cyan said, and the two left, followed by their allies.

(''Under Martial Law- Final Fantasy VI OST-s'')

During the journey to the northeast, the group was attacked by various monsters, including killer bees with a poisonous sting(2) and giant hornets, but they were no problem.

''You know, there is another town located north of Vector, Tzen. It was once a monarchy, but when the Empire attacked the city, they placed it in the same condition as Maranda and exterminated the royal family. Now all adult males are forced into military service, leaving the city inhabited only by the elderly, women and children.'' Edgar said.

''What a barbaric Empire, kupo!'' Mog snapped. ''We always find ourselves in front of them wherever we go!''

''We're doing what we can, Mog.'' Edgar told him.

Suddenly, Gau sensed a smell that worried him. He got on all fours like an animal and sniffed it deeper.

''Sir Gau? What's wrong, kid?'' Cyan asked.

''Burning smell... F-Fire... fire in the distance.'' Gau replied nervously.

''I have a bad feeling about this. '' Edgar said.

''Let's go to Vector, quick! Gau, lead us!'' Sabin exclaimed, and everyone started running, led by Gau, who was following the trail of the smell of burning.

''I don't like this...'' Terra murmured.

(''Chozo Ruins- Metroid Zero Mission OST'')

The smell of flames grew stronger, and Gau continued to lead the others until they reached Vector in the evening. What they saw was an apocalyptic scenario. High flames burned the city, several houses were destroyed and clouds of smoke rose in the atmosphere, while some people tried to put out the flames. The most damaged place was undoubtedly the Imperial Palace, a short distance away.

''Well, that was unexpected.'' Locke said.

''Good thing Doma wasn't besieged like that, right, Cyan?'' Sabin said, and Cyan nodded sadly.

''Hey, guys!'' called a voice. It was Arvis, and Banon was with him.

''Banon! Arvis! What are you doing here?'' Edgar asked.

''We had sent an army to attack Vector, but when we heard that the Espers attacked the capital, we went to check it out.'' Arvis replied.

''Terra, the unplanned in my plan is to our advantage: when you summoned the Espers, they razed Vector, and that's a big problem for the Empire.'' Banon said.

''Let's hope it's all true, kupo.'' Mog commented.

A representative of the Empire approached. He appeared to be of the highest rank, and was dressed in a scarlet and white robe with a hood that left only his eyes visible. Seeing him, Cyan could barely hold back the urge to draw his katana and kill him on the spot, but he stood still. ''Who are you? What is it you want from us?'' he asked.

''I am an Imperial Elite, a bodyguard of Emperor Gestahl. The chancellor wants me to tell you something important. The Emperor is waiting for you, and he would like to tell you something.'' the Imperial Elite said.

''Follow him. It could be important.'' Arvis said.

"Banon, are you sure it's not a trap?" Sabin asked, not very convinced.

''Yeah. Emperor Gestahl was the one who killed my mother, separated me from my father and made him die slowly.'' Terra said. Being at dinner with the one who had orphaned her made her shiver.

''I think it's important. Enter the palace and find out what he wants. We will deal with the situation here. If anything happens, let us know with the carrier pigeons.'' Banon said.

(''Chozo Ruins- Metroid Zero Mission OST-s'')

Inside the palace, several imperial soldiers seemed to no longer want to fight, and greeted the members of the Resistance. With them was also Professor Cid, next to the Emperor. ''Hey, guys!'' he said. He then noticed Terra and smiled. ''So, Terra Branford, we meet again. Many in the Empire remember you. Previous authority figures, including Celes and General Leo, also knew you well.''

''Professor Cid! What happened? '' Locke asked.

''Apparently, the Espers had flown here to search for their previously captured friends. But when they found out they were dead, they got mad and set everything on fire. This forced the Empire to surrender.'' Cid replied.

''I understand. We didn't expect such an attack from the Espers.'' Terra said.

''We didn't expect that either. The Imperial soldiers have taken refuge here, and almost everyone has lost the will to fight.'' said Cid.

''We underestimated the Espers' power. If they go on like this, they will destroy everything. We need to work on a peace treaty with them so they understand we don't want to fight. We'll talk about it tonight at 8 PM, and you're all invited.'' Gestahl said.

''OK... let's just hope it's all true.'' Sabin murmured.

''Alright. Some soldiers on Magitek Armors, however, seem that they still want to fight. Talk to the soldiers while we prepare dinner, they might tell you something.'' the old Emperor said.

(Objective: Talk to the soldiers in the palace.)

Terra felt like something was wrong, but decided to trust Gestahl's words. One thing that tormented her was the fact that she heard hysterical screams and the sounds of metal bars echoing through the building. '' What's going on? '' she asked.

''Oh, it's just Kefka screaming at the top of his lungs. I think they arrested him.'' Edgar said.

''It's about time they did!'' Cyan commented.

As they explored the palace, the group talked to scores of soldiers, who were fed up with the fight. Some of them, however, on brown and orange Magitek Armors, fired a few missiles that nearly hit Locke.

''What the... they attacked us!'' Edgar exclaimed.

(''Crisis City Whirlwind- Sonic The Hedgehog 2006 OST'')

''Alright then, that means we'll have to fight as well!'' Sabin said, tightening a red headband around his forehead. He pulled a Magicite out of his pockets and rubbed it. ''Ifrit, lend me your strength!'' Ifrit assumed his physical form and gave him his power. The warrior monk, infused with the power of fire, was engulfed in flames.(3)

Terra cast the Scan spell, identifying the Magitek Armors. ''Those are Mega Armors and Proto Armors. They are among the most powerful Magitek Armors in the entire Empire and can deliver powerful punches and charge with all their weight in addition to the techniques of other Magitek Armors: missiles, lasers and barriers with the effects of the Reflex spell. Like the other Magitek Armors and other machinery, however, they are weak to thunder and water.''

Sabin sprinted forward, dodging the missiles fired by the Mega Armors and Proto Armors by jumping and sliding, leaping on some of them and even used one against them, being followed by his companions. He kicked one of the robots, then another, and another, then ran around the various robots, surrounding them in flames. He closed his eyes and snapped his fingers, releasing an explosion. He then took a large axe forged by the giants, the Gigantaxe, and struck them repeatedly with it, his blows enveloped in fire, and the power of the blows threw one of them against the wall, then pivoted on the axe and slid at high speed with it before jumping and swinging it forward. Other Armors approached him, but seeing two pillars, he stowed the axe in the thick sheath he carried on his back and used them to his advantage, clinging to one of them and delivering a spinning kick as he swung from side to side, and he then followed with a front kick that hit an enemy on the left side, gave momentum, instantly punched another, and unleashed a Tatzumaki Senpyukyaku and a spinning split against a group surrounding him.

''Get'em, Sabin!'' Edgar shouted proudly. He joined the fray by taking two guns and opening fire on the Magitek Armors, which Locke hit with the Ultima Weapon, while Terra slashed them several times with her sword, releasing light and flames, and hit them with the Water spell, covering them in a orb of water that then exploded.

''Aero!''(4) Gau used Rage after Rage, releasing wind from his hands and striking with his claws and the Thundara spell, then he was thrown by Sabin at the enemies, creating a whirlwind of wind and striking with more and more momentum, also being supported by Cyan, who slashed them with his katana, then using a Bushido Flurry, and Locke, who alternated slashes with the Ultima Weapon with stabs with his dagger. Ifrit released his signature attack and struck the Mega Armors and Proto Armors with his claws. Sabin then jumped on his back and punched the floor, causing the ground to shake and releasing flames, and his comrades unleashed combined attacks with their weapons. Terra cast a Fira spell, but one of the Magitek Armors activated a barrier, forcing her to hit her own magic attack with her sword to deflect it. Sabin used the Rising Phoenix Blitz technique, creating a series of clones that kicked and punched a Mega Armor, then the real one lifted it off the ground and threw it at other Magitek Armors, threw another one at Edgar, who pierced it with his spear, and released a fiery wave shaped like a phoenix, unleashing a strong explosion that devastated the remaining enemies.

When the smoke cleared, there were no more Imperial soldiers who wanted to fight, wreckage of Magitek Armors was scattered everywhere and the flames surrounding the warrior monk disappeared.

(''Crisis City Whirlwind- Sonic The Hedgehog 2006 OST-s'')

''Man! Sabin, I didn't know you could use axes!'' Locke exclaimed.

Sabin laughed. ''Sometimes, when I had no lessons with Master Duncan, I would practice using the axe. Aside from a heavier weight, what's the difference between using an axe and a sword? Anyway, a strong guy like me would have no problem lifting its weight, but I use the sword and axe only situationally.'' he said.

Edgar was amazed at how his brother had fought. ''Sabin, you literally destroyed them! You were already strong before, but like this, your strength seems to multiply a hundredfold!'' he exclaimed.

''Seeing those metallic things get demolished makes me feel so good!'' Cyan said happily.

''Let's go find the dining room. They will be waiting for us.'' Terra said.

Suddenly, there was a noise, and Sabin realized it was coming from his stomach. ''You are right. And I'm hungry...'' he said.

''How long is it until dinner time?'' Locke asked a passing soldier.

''It's almost ready, there are still twenty minutes left, just enough time to change. You should be presentable, right?'' the soldier replied.

As the group went to the changing rooms, Edgar advised Cyan not to lose his temper at dinner. ''We don't question that we hate the Empire, but you gotta know that I have had to fake an alliance with them for ten years. If you upset a member of the Empire, we may get kicked out and we won't have a chance to make a truce with the Espers.'' he said.

''I can't do miracles, but I'll try. '' The samurai told him.

''And you, Gau, introduce yourself well and be good. Be polite at dinner, okay?'' Sabin said to Gau, who nodded.

(''Space Junk Galaxy- Super Mario Galaxy OST'')

Mog was the first to leave the rooms, putting on a simple bowtie. As Edgar was still wearing his royal robes, only put on some cologne. Cyan took off his armor and replaced it with a kimono, a typical garment of his kingdom.(5) Locke came out in a jacket, shirt and tie, and Sabin was dressed similarly, but in a bow tie and a royal red cloak. It was clear that despite having given up on it, he had not forgotten his past as prince of Figaro.

After a couple of minutes, Terra walked out, still wearing her gloves, cape and boots, but replacing her ruby tank top with a dress of the same color. Edgar, seeing her more beautiful than ever, gave her a longing look, which he ignored, but Sabin, realizing it, elbowed him in the chest and glared at him. ''Don't even think about it, you philandeler.'' he told him. He noticed that Gau had not yet come out. ''Wait a sec, where is Gau?'' he asked.

Cyan decided to go check it out and saw Gau looking around confusedly. ''Sir Gau, I was wondering if you were getting dressed. Since you are not used to our society, I'll help you out.'' he said. After dressing him in a tank top, a shirt, jeans and a jacket with a tie (which made him feel a little uncomfortable because he wasn't used to getting dressed), he took a comb and temporarily untied Gau's ponytail to comb his hair, then tied it again. ''Done. Now thou art ready.''

(Objective: Meet with Emperor Gestahl for dinner.)

The seven went to the dining room, where they met Cid. ''Well, I see you are ready for dinner! I know I've been in the service of the Empire, but I'm not proud of it. I was the one who developed the Magitek technology, but the Gestahlian Empire had forced me and many scholars to work on it. I will take you to the dining room, and I will sit with you.'' said the scientist. Although not entirely convinced, Cyan decided to trust him.

Cid escorted Terra and the others to the dining room. There was a huge table in the room, so long it could seat over twelve people at a time, with a white tablecloth and luxury cutlery, luxury plates full of food, gilded candles, and candlesticks hanging from the ceiling. ''I had completely forgotten about the Imperial Palace.'' Terra said.

In the room, Sabin recognized someone. It was General Leo himself. ''Look, Cyan! It's General Leo!'' He exclaimed.

Leo saw the guests and bowed. ''Hello. For those who don't know me, I'm General Leo.'' he said.

''We meet again, Leo. It's been a while.'' Edgar greeted him, shaking his hand.

''Actually, yeah, we haven't seen you in a while, King Edgar. I see your brother is with you too.'' Leo replied, nodding. ''And I see there's also Terra with you. I would like to talk to her for a while later.''

''It's just a pity that we're from opposite sides, otherwise we can be friends.'' Sabin said.

The general thought about it and nodded again, then turned to Cyan and shook his hand, his head down. ''Sir Cyan, I am very sorry for what happened to Doma. I tried to stop Kefka, but he disobeyed my orders and the Emperor summoned me urgently.'' he said, sighing.

''It's not your fault. General Leo, I know you, and I blame not thee. It's all Kefka's fault.'' Cyan replied as the group sat down.

Terra sat on the left side, with Mog on her shoulder. Locke sat next to her and Edgar. Cyan was on the right side, directly between Sabin and Gau, who was sitting cross-legged, but a glance from the samurai prompted him to fix his posture. Cid asked to sit next to the other Returners, and the Emperor gave him permission to do so with a nod, allowing him to sit on Terra's left.

''So... I'm glad we're here eating together.'' Gestahl said as a servant filled the glasses with red wine. ''To start, let's have a toast. If you want to talk or ask me something, raise your hand. What would you like me to make this toast to?'' He asked then.

Sabin raised his hand. ''To our homelands.'' he replied.

''To our homelands! '' Gestahl repeated, and everyone gave the toast.

This time it was Mog who raised his hand. ''We heard Kefka scream, kupo. Was he...?'' he asked, as everyone began to eat.

''Yes. I had him arrested. I agree with General Leo that what he did at Doma was cowardly, even for him.'' Gestahl replied. ''Please tell me what his penalty should be.''

Edgar raised his hand. ''King Edgar. Go ahead.'' General Leo said.

''Let's leave him in jail for now. Life in prison is enough.'' Edgar said.

''Better that way. Let's leave it there and then see.'' the Emperor agreed.

''Finally, Kefka is arrested! I'm sick of spending a whole day with him in the middle!'' a high-ranking member of the Empire exclaimed.

''Indeed. Not even we of the highest ranks can stand it. Only the Emperor tolerates him.'' another one said.

General Leo is loved by everyone in the Empire, and even enemies respect him. Kefka, on the other hand, is a monster who has no heart. Some say he's plotting against him.'' a third one added.

''Anyway, I'm really sorry for Kefka's war crimes and what he did to Doma. I would not have imagined that he would have used poison.'' the old emperor said.

Cyan cleared his throat and raised his hand, and Sabin noticed that he looked nervous. In fact, the middle-aged samurai felt a deep anger within himself that he struggled to hold back. ''Yeah, but that's still no excuse for all of this!'' he exclaimed, trying not to scream. He breathed deeply, and as he spoke, he managed to keep his cool, albeit with difficulty. ''Not to be rude, but I, Cyan Garamonde, am a samurai in the service of the king. Because of Kefka, I lost my liege, my soldiers, my friends, and even my wife and son. What he did is simply intolerable.'' Sabin, who was drinking the wine with Edgar at the time, smiled in satisfaction and nodded.

Gestahl lowered his head. ''I am terribly sorry. You're right, what Kefka did cannot go unpunished. I'll give him exemplary punishment and the soldiers and I will get rid of the poison. '' he said. ''About General Celes...''

Locke flinched a little, not so much at what Celes had done, but at how he had questioned her at the wrong time. It was Terra who raised her hand. ''Celes is our friend, and she's one of us!'' she declared firmly.

''Kefka was lying. General Celes realized before me how stupid this war was. That is why she has allied herself with you.'' Gestahl said.

Sabin raised his hand. ''I knew Kefka was bluffing. The other day, when we were at the Magitek Research Institute and Professor Cid asked Celes a question about gossip, Kefka made us fall into a trap, trying to make us think that Celes had betrayed us. However, I quickly realized it was a trick and didn't fall for it. My brother Edgar seemed perplexed, and I whispered my doubts to him, while Gau, this young boy who had decided to help us, was confused, so they didn't believe Kefka's words either. I know Celes, and she wasn't even two meters away from us.'' he said.

Emperor Gestahl saw Locke raise his hand. ''Yes? Do you want to say something about it too?'' he asked.

Locke nodded. ''Yes. Last week, when South Figaro was under the control of the Empire, I met Celes in prison. He had explained to me about Kefka's plan to poison the kingdom of Doma, and how she had heard Kefka laugh like a madman at dinner the night before. She had rebelled against his cruelty, and in response, she had been arrested, declared fallen and sentenced to death. Because of Kefka, I questioned Celes' loyalty at the wrong time, which I bitterly regret, but she had proven to be loyal to us. We haven't heard from her since. Cyan, however, due to what he has been through, had never trusted her during the time he was present, and to hear Kefka say these things, he was quite angry. Later, as a result of the events that had happened, Sabin was furious with me and especially with Cyan, scolding us both for falling into Kefka's trap and for believing his lies. He had been hard on us, screaming a lot and giving us a big earful, but he was right, and what he said made us doubt that Celes had betrayed us. Even Cyan, who gave her dirty looks at all times, doesn't know how to approach her: according to what Sabin told us, he wouldn't know how to apologize to her.'' he explained.

''Do you have any other questions?'' the Emperor asked.

''Yes.'' Edgar said, raising his hand as his brother munched on a chicken breast. ''Why did you cause the war?''

''It all happened out of my thirst for power. Soon I would like to talk about the Espers, but if you want to ask more, go ahead.'' Gestahl replied.

It was Gau's turn to raise his hand. ''The soldiers... why talk to them?'' he asked.

''Oh, why did you have to talk to the soldiers? Well, some of my men, even though they are a small minority in the army, could not accept the end of the war. I thought talking to them made them understand.''

''We have noticed. Some soldiers on Magitek Armors had attacked us. There were about a hundred of them, and even if we had to face them in self-defense, the fight made a bit of a mess.'' Sabin said.

Edgar raised his hand. ''Last question before changing the subject. Why do you want peace now?'' he asked.

''Because now I understand that we have to cooperate. There is no other way.'' Gestahl replied.

Terra didn't know if the old Emperor was getting impatient, but decided it was time to change the subject. ''It's better if we talk about the Espers now.'' she said, raising his hand.

Emperor Gestahl nodded. ''You're right, Terra. Let's get rid of the question immediately. The Espers caused a lot of destruction and death when they went through the portal. If they continue like this, they could destroy the world!'' he exclaimed, and Terra agreed.

''Everything OK? You seem a little tired. Would you like a break?'' Professor Cid asked.

''No, we're alright. Thanks anyway.'' Edgar replied.

''Do you want me to say one last thing?'' Gestahl asked.

Terra clearly felt uncomfortable looking at him, as he was her mother's killer, but she raised her hand. ''Yes, that the war is over.'' she replied.

The Emperor thought about it. ''The war is over. At least among us. But to put an end to it completely, we need to find the Esters and negotiate with them.'' he said.

''And what are we going to do? '' Locke asked.

''Head to Crescent Island. It is located in the northeast, a short distance from the eastern continent. To do this, you'll need to take a ferry from Albrook tomorrow morning. General Leo, Shadow and General Celes will escort you there.'' Gestahl said.

Upon hearing Celes's name, the Returners looked at each other confusedly. ''Wait a sec. Did we miss something?'' Cyan asked. Locke, taken aback, didn't know what to say.

''Celes back to the Empire? You sure it's true?'' Edgar added.

''She said she intended to bury the hatchet with us for previous events if we would allow her to be part of your escort. This is all about her.'' Gestahl replied.

''Sorry,just in case.'' Sabin said.

''Anyway, you did very well at dinner. I will order my army to leave both South Figaro and Doma and purify the water.(6)''

''Oh, finally! It's been days since that massacre, and I don't know what happened next. Those who didn't drink the water probably died of thirst... I don't want to think about it.'' Cyan commented, happy to know that the water would be purified, but looking back on the victims, he was shivering, as those who had not drunk the poisoned water may have died of dehydration.

''I'll go on to Albrook. Join me there and take the ferry tomorrow. See you there.'' Leo said, before leaving with Emperor Gestahl.

''I am happy that this useless war will soon be over. You know, I've always hated mundane things, especially money. Well, now I have to go. See you!'' Cid said. He too left the room: dinner was over

(''Space Junk Galaxy- Super Mario Galaxy OST-s'')

Now by themselves, the Returners began to think of Gestahl's words. ''Should we really trust that guy? I think he's lying.'' Sabin said.

''How can you be so sure?'' Locke asked.

''Another benefit of my almost twenty years of ascetic training: I do not fall into traps, and I don't get fooled by a lie. Edgar, we shouldn't trust Gestahl. You know that ten years ago the Empire poisoned our father's drink, thus killing him, not to mention that Gestahl is the same guy who killed Terra's mom eighteen years ago. Also, what he said about Celes makes me suspicious, I think he's lying. I mean, come on, Celes herself said that she rebelled against Kefka's inhuman cruelty after discovering his plans to poison the kingdom of Doma, and she even got sentenced to death. She would have no reason to go back, unless she was forced to. Something's up.'' the warrior monk replied, and Gau nodded.

''Your brother's right. Sure, he did apologize about what happened to Doma, but I also have the feeling that he is not being sincere.'' Cyan said.

''Sabin does have a point. Let's split into two groups to find out what's going on.'' Edgar agreed.

''Quite right. Terra, if Emperor Gestahl said one thing right, it is that without you, a truce with the Esters will be impossible. I'll go with you.'' Locke said.

''I'm coming too, kupo!'' exclaimed Mog.

''Me, Sabin and Cyan will stay behind to investigate the matter and Emperor Gestahl's behavior.'' Edgar said.

''I'm staying too! Help Sabin and Cyan!'' Gau cried out.

''What is it, Gau? Do you want to stay here and give us a hand?'' Sabin asked, and seeing the boy nod, he smiled. ''It's decided! Gau will stay here to check too.''

''Sir Gau, thank you. Another pair of arms would be useful. The two of us will personally check Kefka's cell.'' Cyan said, nodding approvingly.

''Alright. Join us on Crescent Island when you know more. See you later!'' Locke said, leaving the room with Terra.

(Edgar, Sabin, Cyan and Gau have left the group.)

''So, how are things going?'' Banon asked, outside.

''Emperor Gestahl wants us to go to Albrook. From there we will take the ferry to Crescent Island. That way, we can find the Espers and propose a truce. '' Terra said.

''Really? Is the war over?'' asked Arvis.

''Arvis, we have doubts about Gestahl. Edgar, Sabin, Cyan and Gau have offered to stay here because they believe he is hiding something. Don't think he's really intent on making peace. ''Locke warned him. Also, Setzer has not been warned, he is repairing his damaged airship. If possible, we should write a letter and send a carrier pigeon to deliver it to him.''

''I understand. We will warn him shortly. Our coalition suffered no casualties during Vector's battle. If your suspicions are true, be on your guard.'' Banon said.

''When all this is over, we will meet again in Narshe. Come back soon.'' Arvis said.

The three started to leave, but the leader of the Returners put a hand on Terra's shoulder. ''Terra... we're all counting on you. Good luck.''

''Thanks, Banon. You too, Arvis.'' Terra said.

(Objective: Go to Albrook and spend the night here.)

Characters:

Terra

Locke

Mog

The town of Albrook was not very far from Vector, so the journey was quite short, but also quiet, as Terra, Locke and Mog, while wanting to say something, could not. ''Let's stop at an inn, kupo.'' Mog said.

A stop at the inn didn't cost much, and there were at least four beds. Terra fell asleep on one of these, with Mog in her arms, while Locke lay down on the next one, wondering if at least this time he would sleep.

(Two hours later...)

(''Celes's Theme- Final Fantasy VI OST'')

Just as he feared, Locke was unable to sleep, spending two full hours tossing and turning in bed. He looked at the grandfather clock and saw that it was midnight. ''Accursed insomnia... I'm dead tired, but I can't sleep...'' he mumbled. He smiled to see Mog snuggle in Terra's arms as they slept, and decided not to wake them up. He left the room to get a glass of water and went outside to get some fresh air when he saw... her. He recognized her immediately. It was Celes, in front of the railing. ''Celes... you're okay then...'' he told her. But he noticed that Celes was turning away from him. ''Celes... what is it? Have I done something wrong?''

The woman did not answer. Locke felt he had hurt her with his doubt. ''I know, I doubted you, just for a moment. But it doesn't matter. We can still be friends... can't we?'' he asked.

Once again, Celes didn't answer, but looked at the treasure hunter, catching him off guard. Her gaze was a cold glare. After that, she left without saying a word, despite his objections, and left him in the dark.

Locke walked back into the inn, sadly thinking about what had happened. Just as he thought, he had betrayed Celes with his doubt, and he was paying the consequences. If she didn't speak to him anymore, he couldn't imagine how she would treat Cyan for all those insinuations, those threatening looks and his touchiness. He shook Terra's shoulder. ''Terra... Terra, wake up.'' he said.

Terra and Mog woke up yawning. ''Locke ...? What is it?'' the half-Esper asked, still sleepy.

''I saw Celes outside.'' Locke replied.

''She's fine then...'' Terra said, with a sigh of relief.

''Did something happen, kupo?'' asked Mog.

''I couldn't sleep, so I went to get some air. Celes was outside, but when I tried to talk to her, she didn't dare speak to me. and gave me a cold, icy glare. It was as if some of Shiva's diamond dust had come out of her eyes. As far as I know, she is mad at me because I believed, even for a moment, that she was going to betray us.'' Locke sighed.

''You couldn't sleep? What is it, a nightmare?'' Terra asked.

''No, I suffer from chronic insomnia. I usually have trouble sleeping or don't sleep well, and I sometimes have nightmares about Rachel.'' the treasure hunter said.

''Rachel? Who's Rachel?'' Terra and Mog asked.

Locke sighed. ''It's a long story. You two weren't there, so now I'll explain. Rachel was my girlfriend. We loved each other deeply, and we intended to get married indefinitely. However, his father did not approve of our relationship. I grew up in Kohlingen with my father, who was a treasure hunter. We were very close, and he often took me with him. We often visited my grandmother, who told me stories about the War of the Magi, but one day, my father died, and ever since then, everyone treated me like a thief, which I hated, as I had followed in his footsteps as a treasure hunter. Rachel was the only one who believed me, and a relationship began between us. However, four years ago, everything changed. To prove to her father that I was worthy of Rachel's love, I took her on an adventure in a cave in the mountains. Her birthday was near, and I wanted to get her something to celebrate the event: as Edgar had guessed, I was looking for an engagement ring. Unfortunately, the bridge I was standing on collapsed and Rachel pushed me to safety, falling herself. She survived the fall, but she hit her head pretty badly and passed out for a few days. When she woke up, she had lost his memory. Furious, her father blamed me for everything, and Rachel, not remembering me, told me it was better for me to leave, only remembering her father's reactions every time I went to her, so I was exiled at the request of the population. They all believed that in my absence, Rachel could have a new life.'' he explained.

''What happened next?''

''When I returned a year later, he found that in my absence, Kohlingen had been almost completely destroyed by an Imperial siege just a few days earlier, and Rachel had been killed. Her elderly neighbor told me she was mortally wounded, but before she died, her memory had returned. The last thing she said was my name and her love for me, and then she died of a stomach wound. She had lost too much blood. I took his corpse to a herbalist to preserve his body, and he accepted. I've been trying to protect the women I meet ever since.''

''Is that why you joined the Returners?''

''Yes. The Empire had killed the woman I loved, and since then, I have sought revenge. As soon as I discovered the existence of the Returners, a group of rebels fighting against the Empire, I joined them. I was the messenger, spy, and saboteur of the group, and Banon often gave me espionage missions to find out what the Empire was up to. The information I provided to the group was about the Empire's Magitek experiments, the expansionist plans that began several years ago, Kefka's inhuman cruelty and madness, and how they had forced people from all over the World of Balance, including Cid, to work for them. I hated the Empire, but not on the same level as Cyan, and General Leo is the kind of person you respect even if he's an enemy. During that time, I met Edgar, who was also part of the Returners, as he pretended to be allied with the Empire to uncover their plans, and we got in touch.''

''Locke... I'm sorry...'' Terra murmured sadly.

''We didn't know, kupo.'' Mog said.

''Terra, is there a spell that can put to sleep?'' Locke asked, getting back into bed.

''Yes, there's the Sleep spell, but it's black magic. It can even make you fall asleep for long periods, so I'll have to make the spell strong enough to make you sleep through the night, but not too much. Remember that General Leo is waiting for us tomorrow morning at the harbor.'' Terra explained.

''I understand. I will take the risk. Goodnight Terra.''

''Goodnight.'' Terra carefully accumulated magic to cast the spell and then released it. ''Sleep.''

A cloud of blue gas enveloped Locke, weighing down his eyes. After a yawn, he fell asleep like a log, and Terra and Mog did the same soon after.

''Banon's plan had an unforeseen event in our favor: the Espers attacked the city of Vector and razed it to the ground because they could not find their deceased friends, and the Gestahlian Empire formally surrendered. At dinner, the Emperor planned a truce, with Terra as the go-between because she was half-Esper. Though suspicious, me, Terra and Locke prepared to leave, while the others stayed behind to investigate...'' Mog recounted.

A/N: Emperor Gestahl, wanting a truce with the Espers? Terra's help is once again needed due to her Esper blood. But is Gestahl's repentance really true? And what will Terra, Locke and Mog come across on Crescent Island? Find out in the next chapter! See you next time!

(1): In Final Fantasy XIV, in the Stormblood expansion, there is the kingdom of Doma, where the protagonist meets the samurai Hien Rijin, also known as Shun, the son of the last king of Doma, Kaien, deposed and killed by the evil Garlean Empire in an attempt to regain the throne, and his wife Mina, and helps him recapture the castle of Doma. These names are the Japanese names of Owain, Cyan and Elayne, and Hien's theme is that of Cyan in Final Fantasy VI inside the Doma castle. Furthermore, the presence of Hien and the death of Kaien would make it a sort of an alternate universe in which Cyan is killed by the Empire, and not Owain, who instead, after seeing his father murdered, grows into adulthood. and become a mighty samurai.

(2): In Final Fantasy III and Final Fantasy X, killer bees can poison.

(3): In Final Fantasy Record Keeper, characters have a primary element they are associated with and often have a secondary element or two as well. Through their Soul Breaks, they can unleash powerful attacks or techniques often based on their skills in their games, or infuse themselves with the power of an element, powering up the techniques of that element. Terra, Locke, Sabin and Cyan have fire as their main element, with wind as a secondary element for Terra, poison for Edgar, with fire and thunder as secondary elements, dark for Kefka with poison as a secondary element, sacred to Celes with ice as secondary element, Mog has as elements holy and earth, wind for Gau, with thunder as a secondary element, dark for Shadow and dark for Setzer, with fire as a secondary element.

(4): Aero is a recurring magic of the wind element, but change type during the series: in its debut in Final Fantasy III was a white magic, like its enhanced variant Aeroga, and it becomes a blue magic spell in Final Fantasy V and Final Fantasy VI and a black magic spell in the following chapters.

(5): Samurai are typically Japanese, and the symbolic garment of Japan, the kimono, can also be formal. Cyan's name in Japanese was Cayenne, from ''kaien'', a Japanese samurai term meaning ''sea swallow'', but character names were limited to six letters in the western versions of the first six games. and the name was confused with the eponymous pepper by the translators, who thought he would not be taken seriously. For this reason, Cyan's name is pronounced as the Japanese pronounce it.

(6): During the banquet, you will receive a number of points up to a maximum of 100: 1, 3 or 5 based on the answers to Gestahl's questions, one by asking questions before talking about the Espers and one for each of the soldiers who you can fight against during the break. With a good score, not only will the Empire stop occupying South Figaro and Doma, but the player will also receive rare items.