Primogenitor

Chapter Four

An apposition of several sneezes filled the air.

He had stopped counting, but it must be the seventh or eighth time in this quarter of an hour.

Glaring sullen at the 'pitiable' boy next to Cecilia, Midgardsormr couldn't believe that she took care of the Elezen just because he had gotten a little cold. To be more direct: She had brought him earlier than necessary to Ul'dah with the excuse, that she – as an alchemist – would cure his illness there. As a security measure, quasi. Before it would become some serious influenza. In other words, something which had to be if he wanted to visit later the celebration of Ishgard's victory.

So, that was why they sat here – in the guild of alchemy.

Alphinaud rested on a chair, while the dragon had taken a seat on the next-best desk.

The two of them watched Cecilias easygoing work, which seemed to be as precise as the handles of the busy guild-master in the background. Although this strange, creepy man called Severian did not seem to be the most professional alchemist here. His pupils took their tasks apparently more serious than he did – and the Raen producing a cure for Alphinaud had been one of them.

Midgardsormr snorted quietly and curled up to a perfect circle.

If he had obtained a cold – although that was unimaginable – the girl would surely not be in a hurry. Presumably, she would have stated, that it was his own fault as he always sought for direct contact with Coerthas' icy air. Then, perhaps, she would have discussed the topic for a while with him, before even considering bringing him to a warmer place. Not to mention the creation of a cure...

"Just one minute left, Alphinaud. The potion has to brew for a moment."

There it was again... This sickening sweet pitch in her voice.

The dragon growled muted, before he closed his lids.

After Vishap had been defeated, he was hoping to spend a little bit... privacy with Cecilia.

He didn't want to open up as much as she probably wished for, but he still wanted to assure her, that his words on the Steps of Faith had never intended anything negative. Rather, it was the opposite... In his gruff humor of an old man, he had realized too late, that she couldn't read between the lines like those of his own kind could. She thought, that he found her stubbornness silly.

Midgardsormr really had wanted to fix this mistake.

But NO, there was not even a chance for asking the girl for some private time.

When Cecilia had recognized Alphinauds sneezing, she had used her charm in order to convince Commander Lucia as well as Erik of the boys bad state of health. After that coup, it had been for her a child's play to persuade the Commandant of the Crystal Braves to follow her without complaints. And since Ul'dah was their destination for the official celebration, no adventurer or member of these blue-uniformed Crystal Braves had any objections against her plan.

Begrudgingly, the dragon looked up, when he heard the maidens footsteps.

She handed the Elezen in this moment the potion out – looking in the way like invalids hoped to see a nurse smiling at them whenever they got their medicine. Who needed angels, when heaven was detectable on earth... Alphinaud thought clearly something like that, as he quickly drank the liquid with reddened cheeks and lowered gazes. Tss, the boy should be glad, that the girl wore this serious, decent outfit of a skilled craftsman and not that-

Midgardsormr cursed his overhasty thoughts, because just in this moment Cecilia switched back to her new-decided standard; but Blackmage. Why did she have to change her priorities? Healing was after all her preferred role on the battlefield. And above all, did she honestly think that THIS outfit was appropriate for the announced celebration...? Perhaps it might be a fitting ensemble for a trip to the desert, but national authorities would certainly not tolerate this ordinary standard...

He looked fangs-grounding away from the frustrating maiden.

But from the corners of his eyes, the dragon glanced at her, while she spoke to the Elezen.

"Your sister would surely be mad to see, how little you take care of your health." ,Cecilia stated, "Alisaie is surely busy with her tasks, but I bet she jumps to your side in the second she learns about the illnesses you earn lately in a constant manner." Coughing in embarrassment, the boy responded: "P-Please, don't tell her! My twin-sister can be a real nightmare when I am too focused at my work in lieu of my state of health... She's worse than our mother in this point..."

"Well, with my 20 years, I'm surely no snitch. In fact, I am nowadays as an adult not more like that than I was as a child. Yet... if you continue with that behavior, there's nothing which could stop me from informing Alisaie about your inattentiveness. When you refuse listening to all your friends, then your sister must wash your head." she said determined.

"Can't I change your mind...?" Alphinaud gazed at her with a hopeful expression.

The maiden smiled almost wicked at the boy: "Nope." Following, she gave Midgardsormr a look which was full of puckish amusement about the situation. Now it was the dragon, who was forced to cough in abashment. It made absolutely no sense, but he found her 'strict big sister' attitude fascinating or rather... attractive. Her sternness, in general... It was like a drug to him.

Midgardsormr could barely refuse the magnetic pull of her odd personality.

And he hated himself for it. A fortiori the longing became stronger.

~C~

"Momodi wants to speak with us?" the mannerless Hyur asked with a full mouth.

Staring with glowing irises from Cecilias shoulder at Erik, he heard only marginal, how Alphinaud answered politely: "Yes, she asked me to inform you two about this wish. When I visited Momodi just a moment before... In order to thank her again for her support considering the people of Doma, she expressed her interest into a meeting. Also, it sounded like there's somebody else who would like to see both of you. But she didn't tell me any details."

"Sounds weird." Erik stated and bit once more into his apple, which crackled loudly under his teeth. Contemptuous, Midgardsormr turned up his nose at the churlish gawk. "I wonder, who would have enough interest into conversing with us just before the celebration starts..." the maiden mumbled. "Supposably an admirer. But whoever it is... Momodi must surely know this person. As long as it's not again such a send-your-servant-thing... Don't like that aspect of Ul'dah. Incognito meetings everywhere and anytime. Bah, bollocks!" the Hyur railed at this possibility.

Alphinaud nodded slightly and asked very stiff: "Uhm, I presume you two will go now to her...?" "Stage-fright again...?" ,was the straight response of Erik, "Should we escort you first to the party?" "N-No, of course not! I-I am just..." Snorting, the dragon couldn't believe that this 'Commander' was stammering like a little child. Obviously, he bore this part of his personality down whenever members of these Crystal Braves were around. This was after all something, which Midgardsormr had meanwhile realized. This Elezen... He tried to be someone in public who he wasn't.

Cecilia smiled gently at her young friend. "It's okay, Alphinaud. Erik can go ahead in order to see what Momodi wants from us. In the meantime, I accompany you until we have found Minfilia and the others, so that you're not alone with your tasks as a leader." "Sounds like a plan." Erik chuntered and scratched abstractedly his head. "That's not necessary." ,the boy said and cleared his throat, "When I would need your help in such little... matter, I would be nothing more but a dissembler. And to be honest... I truthfully think that too many people rely on you guys. Not only the Warriors, but also the adventurers in general. Back then... that was not just a speech. I really meant it."

"That topic again..." the Hyur harrumphed before he bit firmly into the half-eaten apple.

Midgardsormr gazed inquiring at the maiden. To which subject had he addressed?

As if she had heard his thoughts, Cecilia said: "Alphinaud, we don't help other persons just because they want this assistance from us. It is our job – our self-chosen path. We get not only a payment for every single mission people give us, but we also earn their trust. In some way, we take advantage of those who are in the need of help. And we can quit whenever we want. I, personally, help them because I simply want to help, but there are enough adventurers who do it just because of the price. Therefore, no state and no folk has the same benefit which we have from a deal."

Erik clapped minimal: "Exactly my speech. Only better expressed. Although I'm amazed, that Ceci speaks voluntary with that 'bitter diction of a representative'. She usually hates it. A lot."

The aforesaid Raen glared miffed at her companion, while Alphinaud looked surprised at them. "That means... You two do still not think, that the states take you to the cleaners?" "Not at all. Perhaps, we are the real leeches here. We hornswoggle you." the boss of the Warriors replied.

Not only the teenager found this statement confusing.

Midgardsormr was baffled, how less these two adventurers thought about their duty.

However, that seemed to be just a little surprise, when Cecilia suddenly said: "Well, when you are truly determined to go without me to the celebration... You can take my little buddy here with you." At first, the dragon didn't realize, who she meant. But his eyelids ripped themselves widely open, when the word's signification finally reached his grasp. Impulsive, his irises started glowing.

She was... not serious here, right...? She couldn't be!

He was no toy which she could lend to someone else whenever she pleased...!

Before Midgardsormr could complain about her intent, the girl lifted him from her shoulder and placed his body straightaway on Alphinauds head. The boy seemed to be as shorttaken as he was – the only difference was the missing indignation about her action. With a stiff smile, the Elezen looked for a moment up to the putative puppet; perhaps silently trying to excuse the situation. Then, he payed again attention to the Au Ra: "Thank you... I try to look after him while he's with me."

Midgardsormr coughed muted because of these words.

'Keeping an eye on me...? On ME...? Child, it's rather the opposite...'

He mildened his gaze, when his irises found hers. They confirmed his suspicion at once.

Ah, so she did this in order to make sure, that her precious little friend wouldn't get into trouble... Although he knew no details, he had recognized, that the Warriors of Light didn't trust all members of the Crystal Braves. They pretended to consider the specific individuals as friends in public, yet their words in privacy were soaked with distrust.

'Do I even want to play the role of your spy...?' he thought hesitant; eyeballing her.

Cecilia didn't let him time to reassess the situation, as she said: "Let's go, Erik. I don't want to risk our luck with Momodis patience. And if we're fast enough, maybe we won't miss the opening." "Yeah, that's my opinion, too." the Hyur replied nodding plus threw the remains of his apple away. The two saw their friend for now off, before they ran into the direction of Ul'dah's tavern.

Letting a low growl roll in his throat, the dragon laid down in Alphinauds white hair. He didn't want to baby-sit this starry-eyed teenager... It was against his resolution... But well, he had no choice. Hydaelyn wanted him to stay by Cecilias side. It was the only existential purpose he had left – otherwise, he would still rest within his corpse; absorbed in slumber. And if that valuable price meant to do the mortal at least this tiny favor... Denying her moderate wish was no option.

When the boy started moving, Midgardsormrs irises followed wistfully the maiden...

~C~

The dragon groaned inwardly when his gazes wandered through the chamber.

There were too many mortals... In his opinion, it was too crowded here; too stuffily...

Squinting his eyes, he pressed himself deeper into the boy's hair – trying to blend the people out, although he knew that this wouldn't help much. He had not only become old-fashioned because of his absence from life alias thanks to his death, but also in some way he had become claustrophobic. His distrust into mortals had intermixed with the feeling of painful constriction; caused through everything which was concerned with the Agrius. Or rather, the deadly embrace...

He could barely endure his position on the boy's head...

"Alphinaud! Over here." the voice of the Scions' leader emerged from the crowd.

With a huge smile, the Elezen walked to Minfilia and three other members of aforesaid group. Standing next to the remaining Warriors of Light, they all seemed to exclude themselves from Ul'dah's stars and starlets. It was similar with the heads of Limsa Lominsa and Gridania – meanwhile, the dragon knew their names. Merlwyb Bloefhiswyn and Kan-E Senna were not fond of the present businessmen. And although he must be used to these characters, the leader of the native Grand Company, Raubahn Aldynn, tolerated them more than anything else.

Lucia was here, too, and equally restrained like that General was. She, however, stood alone in another corner – by the side of a dark-haired Elezen with blue eyes and obvious enthusiasm.

"Sir Aymeric must be overjoyed because of the festivity." the boy said with his typical formal tune. A Miqo'te with stinging eyes in green color – a member of the Scions – nodded: "Yes, he surely is delighted or rather exhilarated because of this event." Clearing his throat, Alphinaud questioned: "Have you seen... perhaps... a Dragoon in black armor and with a sharp tongue?" "A Dragoon? No, we haven't seen any of them here. Why do you ask?" the Lalafell next to the Miqo'te wondered. "Maybe he thought, that one of them would accompany Sir Aymeric!" a Hyur-woman with a mask plus an unperturbed smile on her face stated easygoing, before she passed Minfilia a drink over. "Yda, I don't believe that any of the Dragoons have time for that..." the Lalafell snorted.

Chuckling minimal, the boy demurred: "She's partly right, Papalymo. In fact... I had hoped to see Estinien today on the celebration." "The Azure Knight?" ,the Miqo'te said surprised, "I thought that this man never leaves Coerthas because of his task to protect not only Ishgard, but also it's treasure; the Eye! Why should he come to Ul'dah, when Nidhogg could attack every moment? I know you and the Warriors of Light have met him before, but... It makes no sense, that the Azure Dragoon would leave the city in order to simply celebrate with us."

Embarrassed, the boy coughed a little, before he responded severely: "Y'shtola, do not nettle me! Certainly, I do not expect Estinien to 'party' with us, when our victory was not more than the win in a single combat. I thought only... that Erik and Cecilia would enjoy his presence." "Ah, that's right... They have befriended the Azure Dragoon lately, correct?" Papalymo asked curious. Yda agreed: "Yepp, they are buddies – as much as I know from the other Warriors. They get along."

'Cecilia and getting along with someone who kills dragons...?'

Midgardsormr was bewildered by that information. In fact, he doubted, that any of Ishgard's knights would tolerate her attitude to not annihilate the 'pangolins'. For this reason, it sounded like an error, that – of all things – the Azure Knight should be a friend of the odd archmage.

With confusion, he stared indecisive at the Scions.

~C~

"Commandant Leveilleur...?" a voice hissed from behind.

Turning around, the teenager asked: "Yuyuhase? Is something wrong?"

A Lalafell in that direful, blue uniform saluted under Midgardsormrs austere gaze, before he said: "There is a business which you must settle now, unfortunately. I wish I would not have to disturb you and the Scions of the Seventh Dawn, but it's too important as if it could wait... You have my explicit apologies, sir." Sighing, Alphinaud approached Minfilia: "I am sorry, but this sounds really not like the type of problem which I could retard..." "It's okay, don't worry. Maybe Erik and Cecilia will take a while before they can join us – so, you have surely time to settle the issue."

The boy nodded, before his expression became neutral; a businesslike poker face.

He followed the Dunesfolk Lalafell in the manner of a leader. All steps were set in the confident, arrogant way he usually demonstrated in public. Midgardsormr wondered, if the mortals didn't see through this facade because the teenager himself denied his inner weakness. On the other hand, presumably only the Warriors of Light got to experience the private side of this child... Never fell any kind of comparison from their lips, which would place Alphinaud in the shadow of his famous, deceased grandfather. So, it was natural, that they were allowed to see... more.

The Lalafell brought Alphinaud to an office, where several members of the Crystal Braves waited. Wrinkling his nostrils, Midgardsormr couldn't help but smelling a rat here. Something was wrong... Sharing the negative opinion of the Warriors, he stared observant at this Yuyuhase.

Formally, the commandant asked: "May I ask now, which important business could not wait until the festivity comes to an end?" The Lalafell seemed to reflect on something, but it were no words. The dragons ears dropped, when he recognized the tiny hand-sign this mortal gave the other men. From the corners of his hilarious big eyes, Midgardsormr noticed instantly the sharp blade, which sank down on Alphinauds left shoulder. Surprisingly, the Elezen recognized the sword quickly, too, because he gasped before the metal made contact with him.

The facial expression of the boy became bitter, while he lifted his hands as a symbol of submittal. Seeing that made the present Crystal Braves grin in a malicious way. One of them reported with obnoxious complacency to Yuyuhase: "Sir. Barring a few exceptions, we have detained all those with allegiance to the Scions. The Rising Stones is also under out control." Aforesaid supervisor had a smile on his lips that could make someone sick, when he nodded simply. The Elezen must feel the same way, although his gazes were fixated on the blade close to his neck.

Yuyuhase gave the rapporteur a short hand-sign without looking at him, whereupon that Hyur left instantly the office. Eyeballing Alphinaud grinning, the boy answered finally the Lalafells gaze. When the youngster spoke, his voice was unusual rough – filled with anger: "And what do you hope to achieve with this mutiny?" A shrug was the first reaction Yuyuhase gave. Then: "Why, that which we have striven for all along, Commander: The salvation of Eorzea."

The Lalafell folded his arms – having a self-satisfied expression within his pale rose eyes.

In the same moment, three members of the Crystal Braves came threatening close to Alphinaud. 'Remanding someone' was the phrase which mortals used to describe this here... Midgardsormr was at odds with himself, if he should simply leave this disgusting event and better search for Cecilia... or stay with the poor boy who just had been betrayed in this very moment.

It was not like anybody would prevent him from going... The Crystal Braves had surely no interest into a 'mere plaything'. But... The girl had wanted him to keep track of Alphinaud. Which meant, that he couldn't leave the child alone in such a hopeless occurrence...

Muted growling, he stayed on the boy's head.

~C~

The traitors brought their former Commandant to a congregation of prison-cells.

Noticing the moldy fetidness in the air, Midgardsormr was sure about the absence of windows.

Looking around, he could witness the pathetic captives behind the thick, metallic bars. All of them were skinny and pale; resembling rather zombies than ordinary mortals. Yes, it was to be assumed, that the money-grubbing members of the Crystal Braves wanted Alphinaud to rot in this prison, too. Granted, that the Warriors of Light had been correct... Then, there weren't many loyal members left, who would come to a rescue of their leader. Or rather, could come...

Midgardsormr doubted, that anybody of them knew the truth.

When the Crystal Braves pushed Alphinaud into an empty cell, the dragon glared at them.

Surely the boy was a nuisance... A naive child who didn't belong into political affairs... But still, even when he was just a dreamer, he was at least no manipulable wanna-be-hero. Probably, he cared as much for Gil as Midgardsormr did – namely not a fig.

The dragons irises glowed piercingly, while Yuyuhase watched the boy smugly.

In his complacency, the Lalafell had yet not closed the door – too busy he was with observing.

Although there was no way he would interfere in the mortal's matters, Midgardsormr sat up and vellicated belligerent his ears; eyeballing the bothersome mortal. If he had met him in his true form, the dragon would have eaten the Dunesfolk at once as some kind of snack. He would have bitten that worthless worm several times with fullest pressure before swallowing him finally down.

It surprised the dragon in secret, how much this imagination appealed to him.

"Ah, isn't 'nice' here? So quiet and cool." Yuyuhase smirked cynically.

Almost hopping mad, Alphinaud responded: "Stop being self-important! I will not stay here forever and decay for the sake of your merriment. My friends surely will find a way to escape you traitors. That's something I guarantee you. And then, they will sooner or later get me out of this prison."

Giggling, the Lalafall replied: "Hehe, you swell-headed boy are so blue-eyed...!"

"What do you want to adumbrate?" aforesaid one asked with a cold pitch in the voice.

Yuyuhase chuckled and shook his head: "Your dear Scion-friends can't help you anymore. They are indicted to have planned a malfeasant complot against Ul'dah. To have poisoned the Sultana, which ended in Her Majesty's tragic death." Alphinaud gasped, before he shouted: "What have you done?! How could you do this to the Sultana?! How could you betray me- my friends like that?!"

Laughing loudly, the Dunesfolk answered: "That's not even the most amusing part of the story! Teledji Adeledji was so shrewd, that he perceived that 'secret' meeting the Sultana had planned with the Warrior's leader and your favorite adventurer. And thanks to Her Majesty's naivety to trust her 'loyal' servant blindly, he got the perfect chance to let that woman mix a toxin into Nanamo's wine. He's by far the most cleverly person I have ever met."

"Then it was Teledji who corrupted the Crystal Braves...?!" the Elezen said wrathful.

"Of course." ,Yuyuhase nodded, "He was the one who financed us bounteous, although he used naturally proxies in order to conceal his identity. With so much money, how could I say 'No' to him, when there's nothing in the world which matters more for me? And with that point, it's self-evident, that I- we, the Crystal Braves, want to safe his position in Ul'dah."

"And KILL the Sultana for that goal?! You took her life for THAT?!" the boy shouted enraged.

Shrugging, the Lalafell said: "You shouldn't care anymore for her. If you want to know my opinion. In fact, it would be better, if you reflect on the fate of your pitiable friends. See, Erik and Cecilia deserve your concern at the most." Swallowing loudly, Alphinaud whispered: "Wait a moment... You said, the Sultana was the one who had asked for a meeting with them..."

"Aww, is it beginning to finally dawn on you...?" Yuyuhase crowed sardonic over the insight.

Widening his eyes, the boy screamed: "They are your SACRIFICIAL LAMBS?!"

The outcry echoed in the whole prison. In Midgardsormrs ears, too.

How could this cruel conspiracy be reality...?

~C~

The gratification on Yuyuhases face was disgusting.

Clicking his fingers, the Dunesfolk explained: "Exactly! They were practically 'caught in the act of committing the sin' by Teledji and his servants, since only these two Warriors were together with Her Majesty in the royal chambers. Nobody else was present. Nanamo lay dead on the floor – nothing in that situation seemed to have a reason for some explanations."

While Alphinaud needed a moment for digesting this information, Yuyuhase continued unperturbed: "I bet Raubahn will be wrathful to hear, that his trusted Erik and dear Cecilia have betrayed him. Perhaps, he will even punish them by himself, since they have killed nobody else but his beloved, precious Nanamo – and not just an ordinary girl of Ul'dah's streets."

Sashaying, the Lalafell walked grinning to Alphinaud.

The boy, however, was practically paralyzed by this knowledge.

And so was the dragon on his head. Midgardsormr was haunted by fell imaginations.

When Yuyuhase stood right before the teenager, he said: "I'm sorry, kid, but this game was always nothing for such goody-goodies like you and your friends are. It's the fault of you Scions, that these pathetic adventurers have now to pay at first hand the price for your weak ideals. Most of all them – the leader of the Warriors of Light and his 'little sister'. They'll get killed because of you."

Alphinaud stared angry at his former abider, but was helpless in this moment.

Laughing almost like a child, Yuyuhase added: "Let's come to the most amusing part of the story... In this very moment, your two friends lay totally handcuffed on the floor – being at the mercy of the most powerful, influential people of Ul'dah! Can you imagine this...?!"

Midgardsormr felt, that his stomach wanted to vomit.

He kept his retching-reflex down, but the need of heaving became stronger.

With an unbelievable devilish expression, the Lalafell said: "I have to admit... that I like this idea. After all, your favorite adventurer wears today such an unreserved, sexy outfit for the celebration. She's for sure matching the image of a mage from the desert. A magician – able to perform dark, forbidden spells... But I bet, that she would also be a formidable... SLAVE."

The way this single word rolled over Yuyuhases tongue enraged the dragon to the core.

"Just imagine it..." ,the Dunesfolk continued his mockery of Alphinaud, "Your good friend... or, should I say 'your best friend'...? The only way for her to stay alive... The only possibility to rescue the bare existence she owns from death... No other option left aside from giving up her liberty and serving endlessly the elite of Ul'dah... Doing, whatever they want from her... Whenever they want... Every day... Every night... Without pause... And even being THAT kind of slave..."

Enough... It was just ENOUGH... There had already been too many details...

He couldn't take the allusions to Cecilias possible future anymore...!

~C~

Midgardsormr saw red. His rage got the best of him.

Without thinking – without reflecting on the aftermath, he spat a salvo of blue fire at Yuyuhase.

Under his blazing eyes, the Lalafell screamed in pain, as the flames combusted his face. The attack horrified meanwhile the other attenders, since no one of them had expected the 'toy' to be actually something dangerous. But Alphinaud reacted nevertheless fast. Hustling Yuyuhase with full weight against a wall, he left running the prison-cell. His remaining 'custodians' tried at once to stop him, but the boy dodged their swords and accelerated as much as he could.

"Thank you, little friend!" the child wheezed breathlessly.

Frightened by himself, the dragon thought only: 'It is... too early to thank me...'

In the end of the hallway right before them, another Lalafell appeared suddenly. But he didn't wear that terrible blue uniform. Instead, this tiny person had don an armor of Ul'dahs Grand Company – the Immortal Flames. Could it be, that he wasn't on the side of the Crystal Braves...?

"Alphinaud! Follow me!" the stranger beckoned the boy full-throated over.

Panting, the teenager said: "Your armament... You are the Flame's Vice Marshal...!"

"That's correct!" the Lalafell answered smiling, before he knocked with a targeted punch a Member of the Crystal Braves in front them out. "I just learned about Teledjis plan – and that he wants to let the Scions of the Seventh Dawn look like the malefactors. With that information, I couldn't allow these traitors of blue-uniformed people to keep you imprisoned." ,the Vice Marshal explained while they ran through the corridors, "But obviously, you can take care of yourself pretty well. Hehe!"

Alphinaud shook his head: "No, that wasn't my achievement."

Then, he pointed at the dragon on his shock of hair. "This small guy here helped me. He's actually the companion of a dear friend of mine. But she lent me the little puppet in order to encourage me." "Oh, this is so sweet!" the Lalafell responded cheerful and grinned under his helmet.

Midgardsormr couldn't agree here.

He had freed his temper... and interfered. That was inexcusable...

No descendant would forgive him for losing control because of his stupid inducement...

While the mortals left running the building, Midgardsormr hoped for the boy's sake, that Alphinaud would keep his mouth shut. If he turned out to be a snitch... the dragon would burn him at once. Listening to his sin... His impulsive punishing of the malicious tongue... It would be too much now, since he normally insisted on being as reserved as possible considering the maiden...

Who cared about that burned face... It only mattered, that he had acted for her...

"We must leave Ul'dah into the direction of Central Thanalan." the Lalafell stated while he looked hastily around; presumably searching for the next-best Mini-Aetheryte. "Why, of all things?" "Because your friends will soon appear in this area, Alphinaud. There are old tunnels under the city, which end in the ruins of Sil'dih. The Scions were aware of the architecture which the founders had once constructed, so it's logical for them to use this exit-path. I would do that, too."

Nodding, the Elezen followed his supporter quickly to the wanted object, which brought them instantly to the city's gate. Recognizing the shining sun, the happenings within Ul'dah seemed to be rather a bad joke; an ordinary nightmare to Midgardsormr, than the cruel reality created by mortals. Never had he experienced before such a complot... Made by mortals in order to harm mortals.

Somehow, his view at the world had been shaken once more.

Although his own misstep was much worse...

~C~

The two mortals went breathless down the sandy street.

In the distance, they could hear the homeless and fugitives talk loudly about the newest rumors considering the celebration of Ishgards victory. The most important information was, that Raubahn had been imprisoned. Presumably, he was indicted for slaying Teledji Adeledji.

While the absconders seemed to be shocked about it, Midgardsormr didn't care for the news.

If they had time for considering the fate of others... As they wished. But he had meanwhile payed way too much attention to the deeds of mankind. He knew, that dragons should better avoid them... And if mortals were wise, then they wouldn't interfere in affairs that weren't their own.

His 'mount' became faster, when they approached a big hole close to a shallow river.

Disinterested, the dragon gazed into the cavity – just in order to widen his eyes. There were ruins. Overthrown stone-pillars, mainly, but nevertheless it was clear, that men had once lived here.

Among the leftovers, he could see an entrance. And actually, somebody left it.

The person who appeared was Erik – followed with a little space between them by the four Warriors who had announced to join the celebration. Midgardsormr dropped impulsive his ears in solicitude, because he expected the worst possible situation to have occurred... But then, the Marauder stopped and turned around to the ruins; waiting with an impatient expression.

The relief Midgardsormr felt spread over Erik's face, when Cecilia finally appeared.

Typical for a mortal big brother, the Hyur took her hand quickly and ran together with his comrades up the hill until they reached the street. Simultaneous, Alphinaud and the Vice Marshal hastened despite their breathlessness in order to catch up with them.

Although he had proven to be a little sustained, the boy hunkered partly down when they reached the adventurers. Breathing irregular, the Elezen closed his eyes, wherefore the dragon on his head looked crestfallen at him. In Midgardsormrs opinion, the child needed more training...

While Alphinaud straightened up, he said raspy: "I am glad to see you safe, my friends! What about the others?" The Warriors looked with a sad expression at him; shaking their heads. Erik squeezed synchronous Cecilias hand, which caused her to lean herself against the Hyur. Although the dragon was still shocked by his concession considering the maiden, he couldn't help but feel jealous.

Gritting his teeth, the Elezen cursed: "Damn that man! Teledji played me for a fool! I thought that the Crystal Braves were mine till the very moment I felt the blade at my back..." Raising his hand as a sign of agreement, the Vice Marshal declared: "There will be ample time for soul searching later. For now, we must put some malms between us and Ul'dah."

As if a higher force had heard him, a carriage moved by two Chocobos appeared.

Without regard to the coachman, a merchant in yellow clothes sat in the vehicle; standing up when he saw the group on the street. Addressing Cecilia, he spoke with a dire accent: "Well, would you look who it is! Need a ride? I doubt it'll be half as excitin' as the last trip we took – not if I have anythin' to say about it, anyway!" Like he had spoken the keyword, in the distance they could hear the Crystal Braves and other henchmen of Ul'dah loudly searching for them.

"Lolorito has send his myrmidons for capturing us, too." Erik explained.

The merchant nodded and said: "Let's not dwadle, eh? All aboard!"

While they could see the torches of their persecutors prance over a bridge, the adventurers climbed one by one onto the carriage. Following, Erik helped Alphinaud and the Vice Marshal to get aboard, as the Chocobos started already moving, so that these two were the last ones who had to take a seat. The Lalafell didn't reflect a lot and sat down on the floor; into the direction from which they came. The teenager, however, went reluctantly to the benches, where he sank resigned at the wood.

Midgardsormr perceived this as a sign to leave the child's head.

Yet abashed by his mistake, he flew to Cecilias shoulder.

Seeking shelter in her long hair, he didn't want the girl to see his shame.

She tapped gently against his back, while she whispered only for him audible: "What happened...?" Grounding his fangs, he shook his head. "It doesn't matter..." His voice was too weak; too soft. Although she wouldn't see his expression here, the sound of his words must be equivocal...

"I need to thank you for lending me your new buddy." ,Alphinaud abruptly said restrained, "He was not only helpful for my courage, but also for my escape." Cecilia tensed appreciable: "How...?" "Well, let's say he is much more flammable than I had expected. He enabled my getaway."

The dragon glanced with piercing eyes at the Elezen. But this didn't last long, as his irises recognized red weals on the maidens arms. "What have the mortals done to thee...?" he asked almost soundless; staring at marks all over her body. She had been handcuffed; he had known that. But... These injuries... looked partly like... weals of a... whip.

"That's nothing. Before I healed them, they were bleeding. An archmage like me doesn't care much about such tiny scratches – unless they start ruining our clothes, of course." Cecilia murmured and smiled at him when he studied her face worried. How could she not been frightened, he wondered. Hadn't she been caught by these false guards...? Hadn't they hurt her obviously...?

The girl seemed unperturbed when it came to her own health. Rather, she watched her friends from the corners of her odd-colored eyes; attentively like he gazed at her marks. Begrudging, the dragon looked for a moment at the other mortals, as he wanted to know what she saw. Not, that they could surprise him in any way... Erik was as quiet as usually – sitting there like a statue with folded arms. His allies stared now and then skeptical into space, whenever a suspicious sound in the distance suddenly emerged. That Vice Marshall as well as the merchant, on the other hand, were practically relaxed as if they were on a simple journey, while Alphinaud looked like a bundle of nerves.

When he realized once more, that the Elezen needed definitely more training – a mental one, too... A physical contact with his back distracted him unpleasantly from his thoughts. He tensed tightly, when Cecilias fingers wandered up and down his spine. "Thank you a lot for helping Alphinaud. Without you by his side, I think he would be now in a much worse condition." she whispered softly. Snorting, he wanted to inform her, that he still wasn't happy about being touched like that... However, the tender hand went to his head – caressed his skin and ears. It was... acceptable...

"Nobody tried to harm you, right? You're okay, yes?" the maiden asked hopefully.

Midgardsormr couldn't stand her gentleness now, wherefore he hid his face again. He heard unwillingly her soft chuckle; felt her fingers gliding sensual over his long neck. The rage from before reappeared; making him want to burn another face of these Crystal Braves down. Those, who had hurt this special creature... Closing his eyes deeply ashamed by himself, the dragon buried his fangs into the flesh of his own lips. Leaving deep wounds there.

'Why...? Why do I wish to protect her..?'

~C~

In the need of a distraction, he payed willingly attention to the mortals.

The merchant spoke at the moment to Alphinaud: "I was stockin' up on supplies over in Vesper Bay, you see, when your sister come up an' begged a favor. Said her brother was havin' some trouble down in Ul'dah, an' likely needed a helpin' hand getting' away. Thinkin' them ruins would make a fine hidin' place, I decided to try there first... an' lo an' behold, there you were. Aye, an' judgin' by them soldiers as were pourin' out of the city, I arrived not a moment too soon..."

The Elezen didn't answer. Presumably, he was not yet in the mood for a conversation.

As the child didn't react, the merchant addressed himself to Cecilia: "Must've been fate that we happened to find you there though, eh?" Chuckling, the girl nodded. "Bremondt, you're our savior. Thanks a lot for picking us up as well." "Hoho, you're welcome!" the Hyur responded.

Of all things – when the mood seemed to be lifted a little – the resigned teenager opened his mouth: "I had thought to look out for Alisaie, but it would appear that she was the one watching over me. I've made such a mess of things..." The Warriors of Light breathed loudly in as if they were about to protest against the boys self-reproach, but it was impossible for them to find suitable expressions. Well, Midgardsormr understood their misery good enough... Words were not always sufficient.

"An' who might you be, young sir?" Bremondt asked the Flame's Vice Marshal.

Because of this keyword, the Lalafell stood abruptly up, turned around and took his helmet off. Under the expedient metal, he had hidden long hair in pale-brown color. It made his chocolate-eyes appear even darker. In the moment he saluted, it demonstrated the composure of a nobleman.

"Pipin Tarupin, Vice Marshal of the Immortal Flames." the young man introduced himself.

'Ah, finally a male creature with formal manners.' Midgardsormr noticed slightly pleased.

"I had been on the Ala Mhigan front these past few moons, but an urgent communication called me back to Ul'dah. Scarce had my boots touched the cobbles, though, when the streets erupted with cries of assassination. I immediately went in search of answers, and came across Master Alphinaud. Needless to say, I did not think his imprisonment was justified." Pipin spoke in serious attitude like making a report to his supervisor. The Lalafell was obviously down-to-earth; not like aforesaid boy who was more pretender than anything else in the eyes of the dragon.

Pipin folded his arms while he continued: "The blame plainly lies with the Monetarists. Their greed and corruption are well known to me, but that they took advantage of the situation with such unbelievable alacrity..." 'This is just how mortals are.' Midgardsormr thought unemotional.

Bremondt started grinning: "Was it 'Pipin', you said? Ain't that the name of General Aldynn's lad?" The Lalafell nodded: "Yes, I am his son. Adopted, of course. 'twas only as we were leaving Ul'dah that I learned of Father's fate. Once I have seen you a safe distance away, I mean to return to the city and extricate him from this madness." "Then you needn't travel no further than Black Brush." ,Bremondt stated, "Our fugitives have a friend waitin' for 'em there." The merchant hummed then in a good temper several cheery tunes.

While the Warriors of Light seemed to enjoy the positive atmosphere this uncultivated man caused, Alphinaud was still sickening depressive: "I dreamed of bringing Eorzea salvation, but in the end... It was I who needed saving..." Erik snorted loudly in the same moment the dragon did it muted. Although Midgardsormr was not sure, if the Hyur was also annoyed by that weak, childish behavior – or if he rather intended to controvert these words.

Yawning lowly, the dragon was too tired for reflecting on it.

As the carriage slowed it's pace down, he felt the need of sleep claiming his concentration gradually. Soon, he would have to give in; like a true baby-dragon would. That body was derision first class, but there was no other way to accompany the maiden who leaned her head on Eriks shoulder. Although he as a Methuselah had lost his interest into mortals long ago, the interest into her future was strong enough to let him cling to this ridiculous shape.

~C~

The Warriors alighted the vehicle when it finally stopped; followed by Pipin and Alphinaud.

Midgardsormr took a seat on her scepter, because he didn't want to claw into Cecilias boot this time. If he should fall asleep now, she surely would be troubled in case she had to mount a creature or another carriage – and that meant another improper contact with her if she lifted him up.

Bremondt saw the adventurers including Pipin and Alphinaud off; following his exact words was already a task Midgardsormrs ears couldn't cope with. The vulgar diction overburdened his attention clearly too much, additional, so he focused rather on the Vice Marshal.

"The most unassuming folk can prove to be our greatest allies. That fellow was a passing merchant, yet he lent us aid without a moment's hesitation – or any hint of concern for his own safety. Though I can well imagine how a man could feel inspired to risk all in your presence. Father spoke often of you Warriors of Light. Of Erik and Cecilia at the most. Therefore, I have long looked forward to our first meeting. Needless to say... this is not at all how I envisioned it." the Lalafell stated.

After his praising words, he clumped to the apathetic Elezen who looked motionless at the ground. Warily, Pipin uttered: "Master Alphinaud, you must not give in to despair. That would only play into our enemies' hands! So long as you and the Warriors are free, we may still set things right."

The dupe replied hopeless: "Forgive me, Marshal Tarupin, but I..."

A raucous voice interrupted him: "Alphinaud, my boy – sorry to keep you waiting!"

Midgardsormr let his tired eyes search for the owner of this poised 'instrument'. A Hyur ran into their direction – an engineer, according to his clothes. The man had snow-white hair like Alphinaud, but owned a pair of sky-blue eyes instead of marine-blue ones. It was impossible to tell the age of this foreign mortal, since his beard falsified the facial features a little.

"Cid? What are you doing here?" aforesaid Elezen asked barely surprised in his depression, while the Warriors of Light seemed to be pronounced delighted. "Pulling you out of the fire, as usual! Your merchant friend told me everything." the Hyur responded.

Pipin was as excited as the adventurers were: "Truly? Then he is no merchant but an angel in peddlers' clothing... But tell us: How do you intend to bear our friends to safety?" "I hid my airship; the Enterprise but a short distance away. All I need is a destination." the engineer explained. Folding his arms, the Flame's Vice Marshall mumbled: "We must find a place beyond the reach of both the Monetarists and the Crystal Braves..."

"Coerthas." ,Alphinaud said suddenly, "Ishgard will not suffer the intrusion of foreign forces in their territory." "Sounds like the perfect place for us, yeah." Erik agreed instantly with this idea. "That settles it. With me, everyone!" Cid ordered grinning.

Pipin shook his head: "Not me, I fear. Unfortunately, I must remain here. I dare not abandon Ul'dah to the Monetarists and their cronies. You may be certain that they will seek to defame you – both here and in the other city-states. But know that I shall do my utmost to thwart their every effort. Frankly, I do not expect it to be much of a challenge. The small-folk will not turn so easily on the Warriors of Light and their allies, no matter what the Monetarists claim."

"Marshal Tarupin, I... I know not what to say." the Elezen said; speechlessness consumed him. Snorting with laughter, the companions of Erik and Cecilia could barely hold back their amusement. Presumably the two mortals enjoyed this moment likewise, yet they seemed too tired for joining it – at least the Au Ra wasn't in a fitting condition as much as Midgardsormr could tell.

While Cid was also faintly controlling his jest, Pipin laughed: "Hah! Now THAT Father would labor to believe! But enough talk – you must go, Master Alphinaud. Your airship awaits!" The boy answered halfhearted the Lalafell's wave of both hands, before he gazed inquiring at the Engineer. The Hyur understood apparently at once, because he dashed suddenly away. Cecilia and Erik were the first to follow him; their four friends pursued them together with Alphinaud.

Midgardsormr could quickly see the airship in the distance; a small exemplar in silver and blue.

While he examined the construct with his eyes, he found it harder and harder to leave his lids open. The metal reflected the sunlight in an unpleasing way, so that it played into his necessity's hands. Very soon, he would lose consciousness – if he struggled or not.

"Up, up!" ,Cid called the Warriors and Alphinaud impatient, "There's no rest for the righteous!" Reaching the Enterprise as the first person, the Engineer eyeballed the others with a severe look. Erik, on the other hand, sighed sharply and made his authority heard: "If you had been earlier here, we were already out of Thanalan! So stop making stress! Got it?!"

The Warrior's leader reached the airship a short instant later; turning immediately around to them and reaching out for Cecilia. When he grabbed her hand, he whispered: "When we're in Coerthas, let a doctor take care of your wounds, okay? If it comes to a serious inflammation, even your magic won't be that helpful." The girl smiled minimal and nodded; a smile Erik answered at once.

Weakly in his urgency of sleep, Midgardsormr raised his brows a little in wonderment.

That Hyur, who helped now his other companions plus the boy to get up... Could it be, that Cecilia was the only weak spot which this gruff man had? He practically snatched the other hands while pulling his comrades onto the Enterprise; completely abrasive in comparison with the gentleness when holding the maidens hand. Even their Whitemage-Lalafell and Bard-Miqo'te experienced despite their status of being women not the same caution like the archmage.

Well, if that guess should be the truth... Then, they had at least one thing in common.

For Midgardsormr, the girl was the only mortal who mattered in some strange aspect to him.

He wanted to deny it – with all force he had. Because if he wouldn't do it, he wouldn't be any longer a dragon as well as father whose children had endured unspeakable agony. But... He could call her doubtlessly a friend who had proven to not harm his kind. The only mortal who hadn't been manipulated by the Dravanian Horde and was therefore no duplicitous heretic.

She was... pure. In a way not even the heretic's ambitious leader was.

Midgardsormr groaned muted when sleep caught him.

This maiden disarrayed his mind too much...