Milisandia wanted nothing more than to feel joy when she witnessed the town she had called home for years. She wanted to listen to the fountain's flow, feel the breeze dancing on her skin, and watch the sunlight spread over the rising waves beneath the town. But when she looked at the water, Milisandia remembered that Alfonse's remnants were still buried there and felt sick to her stomach. The news of her brother's demise and others being taken further into Werlyt has soured her hopeful mood. There was so much unsaid between them, so much she wanted to talk about, even if purely out of a desire to spend more time with him. And worst of all, she naively believed it possible after she was saved by Estinien. Now he was no more…
But there was a ray of sunshine in her grief, for a timely return to Terncliff reunited her with a dear friend who she had not seen for some months now. Avilina was curious to hear everything about Milisandia's past, but she was sensible to the fact that she might not want to talk about it. Spending time with her at the viewpoint and watching the sea…Brought some peace to her.
"Does it hurt?" - Avilina asked with care as she looked at Milisandia's charred scar.
"Rarely…If you don't touch it." - Milisandia responded, hoping that the phantom pains would recede sooner rather than later.
"Surely there's something to do here; I can ask the nurse."
"Maybe later, the ones in Ala Mhigo did all they could…" - She replied distantly.
"How did this even happen? I heard you were the pilot of the Ruby weapon, and we were told you died…I refused to believe it even for a second." - Avilina said proudly, still wondering how Milisandia ended up like this. "We were also told that you've gone to destroy a military base, but according to what Nero told, that's not true, is it?"
"It wasn't a military base. It was a whole city…Valens lied so I wouldn't question his orders." - Milisandia shivered as she recalled the moment of her realization. To save her family, she had to spill the blood of the innocents, hundreds if not thousands. "I destroyed much of the place before Estinien saved me, and then they put me into a cell. I got the scar from the weapon's turret, shouldn't have been resisting…" - She spoke with shame, only to have Avilina immediately offer some comfort.
"Hey, don't blame yourself, Mili! You couldn't have known that they would be merciful…Were they?" - She wondered, only to have Milisandia chuckle faintly.
"Father's friends were, but if not for them, I wouldn't have made it past that day." - Milisandia spoke with pain, but she understood it to be true. It was on her mind when leaving for Terncliff. She didn't want to return to Ala Mhigo; she knew that people despised her and was too…Afraid. Afraid of facing the consequences of her action, even though she knew that this was eventually inevitable. She wasn't that different from Nero in this regard.
"That's…Horrible." - Avilina shook her head. "Killing a helpless prisoner just out of a desire for revenge, not very civilized." - She meant to offer support for Milisandia with those words, but after them, the latter had a star urge to defend Ala Mhigans, even if they would never do so in return. Milisandia stood tall and looked away from the sea into Avilina's eyes.
"Lina, please, this is serious…You haven't seen what I've done to their city. How many I've murdered in cold blood! If someone would do this to Terncliff, we'd feel the same way!" - Milisandia snapped to her own shame, catching Avilina off-guard. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't be raising my voice…"
"You're not wrong." - Avilina responded as she looked towards the sea once again. "I don't know how I would feel, but…Is violence the only way? Shouldn't one learn about the enemy's motives before passing judgments? At least try to understand?"
"Understanding doesn't always help…Nero and Alfonse understood each other and…" - Milisandia's voice broke as she began to cry quietly. She looked away from Avilina, desperately trying to hide this breakdown from her. She didn't know why. They never hid their feelings from each other before. It's that feeling that has persisted ever since the Ruby weapon. The one of shame for any of her actions.
"It's okay." - Avilina held her hand gently, standing close to her friend and trying to offer her warmth and comfort. "I'm sorry, I'm so sorry for your loss…Alfonse has been a good friend; he must have been a great brother."
"I was so close to seeing him again, thought we could defeat Valens and save them all…Some part of me wants to blame Nero, but I can't. It could have been the same or even worse in other cases! Now Alfonse's gone, and I can't even return him the favor for all he did for me during our time together…I'll never be able to." - Milisandia felt some relief after talking about her fears openly; Avilina would support her no matter the situation. Friends like her were one of the purest joys in anyone's life.
"Don't hurt yourself like this. Alfonse wouldn't want it." - Avilina said as she gave Milisandia a hug. "You were a family; there is no need for "returning a favor." That's what families do, right? People there help each other, not thinking about paybacks and all. I'm not sure, but imagine it must be like this." - Avilina spoke quietly and with some regret, for she never had a family, none except Milisandia.
"You're right…You're right."
"And as far as I know, he learned that you were alive before activating his oversoul. Just imagine how much happier have you made his last moments! Wherever his soul goes after this, you know he will be full of hope." - Avilina wiped Milisandia's tears before hugging her even tighter. The girl smiled through her grief and reciprocated the embrace.
"Thank you…And sorry for being such a mess."
"Nonsense, it's fine as long as you'll allow me to be messy together with you." - This caused Milisandia to giggle, remembering her friend's support and kindness. It would be unfair to reject her comfort now.
Avilina's embrace weakened when she noticed something, however. Milisandia turned around and saw a familiar dragoon standing beside them and looking over the sea. Estinien closed his eyes and tried listening to as many surrounding sounds as he could, deriving a lot of pleasure from it. In a few moments, he opened his eyes and gazed at Milisandia with sympathy. He wasn't sure whether he should talk about her loss, but seeing Avilina's offering her comfort and Milisandia's watery eyes, perhaps he realized that they've already been on in.
"You have my condolences." - He said dryly, but with genuine grief, Milisandia knew it. Despite all the reasons he had to be angry at her for what she had done, Estinien still offered her kindness in her time of need. She couldn't help but feel immense gratitude.
"Thank you…I know how it feels now." - Milisandia responded.
"It won't be easy, but it also won't last forever." - He encouraged her. "And if you'll need to talk, I don't mind. Not like there's any use for my lance for now."
"Are you the man who saved Milisandia?" - Avilina stepped forward and looked up at the tall elezen.
"Aye, if you can call it that."
"Thank you! This means everything to me, and I'm sure it does to her. And thank you for giving her a chance to redeem herself; I know no one who deserves it more!" - Avilina said with pride, as a shy smile emerged on Milisandia's face. She wouldn't speak of herself so highly but hearing those words delighted her.
"If the Alliance seems to give people like Gaius, Nero, and myself a chance, I don't see why she can't have it. Besides, she's been doing good with it so far." - Estinien smiled as he looked at the former pilot behind Avilina. "Keep it up."
"I will, I promise." - Milisandia smiled confidently in return, knowing that whatever happens, she won't be alone.
"And you are…" - Estinien looked at Avilina.
"Avilina, an engineer from VIIth…Well, a former one now, I guess."
"Estinien Varlineau. I was hoping to ask someone where the research center is here. Nero has left rather abruptly, and I think his next actions require some…Supervision." - Estinien said, hoping for Avilina to know the answer.
"It's to the southeast, the biggest building near the southern wall. You won't miss it."
"Is that where you worked on the weapons?"
"Yes, under some garlean scientists. This was the most important sight for the weapons project bar Valens's base. The scientists were the first ones to be evacuated, but some didn't escape."
"Very well." - Estinien turned to the southeast, ready to pay their enigmatic engineer a visit. "A pleasure talking to both of you." - He said before venturing off and leaving the girls alone. Milisandia looked at Avilina once again, there was still much to talk about, but that will be for later. For now, all they wanted was to follow Estinien's path, close their eyes and enjoy this majestic place while they could.
…
Hearing Gaius and Estinien devalue all of his tremendous work due to just one life sacrificed…This was outrageous; this was unfair! Nero barely held himself from lashing out at his former Legatus and pointing out to him just how foolishly he acted. Still, he didn't go full-on…Perhaps because he still had respect for the Black Wolf, perhaps because some part of him still sought approval. And besides, Nero never had or even wanted to have any kind of children, adopted or not. He couldn't understand what Gaius must have gone through after hearing the news about his son perishing. Nero couldn't blame the grieving father for impracticality.
Who he could blame for this, however, was Valens. This realization struck Nero when he approached the Terncliff research center. This cowardly bastard who has usurped the role of a Legatus in a crumbling Empire now believed himself a god. If not for his cruelty and sadism, Alfonse wouldn't feel the need to die just to please his bloodlust. Yes, yes, this has been an obvious situation. Valens has pitted them against each other, and Nero will make him pay.
What he found inside has not been impressive. A half-abandoned building with many sketches and schemes for the weapons drawn out both on paper and on various magitek terminals spread out the building. It was made of stone, just like other homes in Terncliff; Nero was wondering if VIIth forced its previous owners out to have a place for their machinations. Speaking of the scientists, there were only four left, all of the garlean descent. They didn't leave the place ever since it was overtaken by Alliance forces in fears of escalation, leaving room for Nero to deal with them. Some of them even seemed to remember him, judging by their surprised gazes.
"Alright, I will be brief." - He sighed and began monologuing in front of the scientists. "If any of you are worried, you won't be harmed because some of you were forced into it, and even if not, you are more useful to us as is…And all that. Barely of any importance. What is important is that I, Nero Scaeva, am overtaking your project here, and I am expecting some cooperation. I want all of your work and research transferred to the single terminal; I'll get it to the Alliance afterward. Same with the drawn-out papers, I want absolutely everything out in the open. If there's anything here that can still report any developments to Valens, I expect some sabota…Actually, maybe not; show it to me as well."
"And betray lord Valens like that? He isn't merciful to…Anyone, really, but especially traitors." - One of the scientists said.
"That's another matter. From now on, your operation here has only a single goal which I will personally see to; complete destruction and humiliation of Valens Varro. We will take away all his weapons, army, and places to hide. And from there on, all of us will listen to a spectacular tune of him begging for another chance…If it all goes according to plan, that is. If not, I'll just try to blow him up with the Ruby weapon. Is that clear?"
"Eh…" - One of the scientists spoke with doubt, but another, much more eager one, has interrupted him.
"It's clear enough."
"Wonderful, so get on with it, don't wait for me." - Nero said in a light yet commanding tone, having scientists retreat to their computers. What a wonderful place, no Wedge or Garlond to annoy him, just a couple of fearful and obedient researchers.
"One more thing…" - The doubtful engineer asked as he looked at Nero.
"Yes?"
"Is the Alliance going to pay us for the job? Surely we're being helpful enough here."
"Ah, about that. The Alliance might pardon you, though that's not for me to decide."
"Maybe you can pay us yourself?"
"I am a little low on gil now…However, once you're done, be sure to speak to my good friend, master Garlond; He has more than enough to share."
With these words, they finally got to work. Nero remained to supervise in case some would want to send intel to Valens, and seeing the results of their former research was intriguing even if nothing compared to the weapons themselves. A part of him was impatient to see Emerald and Diamond in all of their glory.
"You've been busy, I take it." - Nero listened to a hoarse voice behind him, turning around and seeing Estinien slowly walking towards him. The engineer sighed, realizing that his enjoyment of total control had been rather premature.
"So Gaius sent you to keep me on a leash? How very considerate…" - Nero said with annoyance as Estinien looked over the lab before pining his attention back on Scaeva.
"Gaius is too busy deciding the specifics of Alliance occupation here; I come here of my own will. But yes, I believe that some supervision wouldn't hurt." - Estinien stated.
"Didn't expect that from you. At least Gaius doesn't care that much…Or does he?"
"So you still care for his opinion?" - Estinien smirked and crossed his hands, finding some entertainment in their talks.
"Don't toy with me, dragoon; I am trying to be as informed as possible. I hardly blame Gaius; he'll admit the precision of my calculations after we destroy Valens together and make him pay for those crimes." - Nero smiled with pride as he gazed over the lab. "Luckily, with all this, it shouldn't be too complicated."
"Or you could just admit that you made a mistake and move on. I doubt Gaius cares that much for your showing-off, but he isn't angry. A simple apology would do." - Estinien tried to talk Nero down, only further agitating him.
"There wasn't any mistake, just a calculated risk I had no choice but to take, as I will demonstrate soon enough." - Nero didn't want to continue this conversation. He would much rather unravel the fruits of his labor here. "Look around and tell me this wasn't worth a risk, Estinien." - Nero walked over the room, showing the dragoon its treasures. "Every single change or calculation, every single idea that Valens was foolish enough to draw out and leave here as I'm sure he would is ours. Imagine him knowing that his research center is being sabotaged so soon after losing two of his weapons; I'd give much to see his face when this "Empire" of his collapses." - This was personal, and Nero was enjoying the process for it. Estinien looked with doubt at this performance, but the engineer hardly cared.
"Take care not to do anything foolish, or you might "collapse" way earlier than Valens." - Estinien noted, leaving a miniature breach in Nero's ego.
"Oh, you don't understand…" - Nero shook his head and looked away, catching a terminal slightly different from others. This one wasn't for storing data; the design gave it away. It was for communication. "And what's this for?"
"That's the one we used for contacting Lord Valens in case of reports." - The scientist said meekly, intriguing Nero. A direct line of communication towards his former assistant, an opportunity too perfect to pass.
"Don't." - Estinien uttered, quickly discerning Nero's thought process but powerless to stop him.
"Do you think he is free enough to respond?" - Nero asked the scientist.
"How am I supposed to know?"
"Fair enough…Call him anyway." - Nero turned towards the perplexed scientist, who decided not to question it.
"Just as long as my face stays out of view." - He said while patching up the terminal.
"Don't worry, I am not calling to give any of you away." - Nero said as he noticed Estinien shaking his head in disapproval.
"You do know that all this will end up doing is irritating him?" - The dragoon said.
"That's the point. That man is easier to enrage than my former magitek instructor, and I want him to know that I am coming for him." - Nero declared with pride; he couldn't wait to see the "Legatus" in the flesh.
Soon, their call was responded to. A digital panel emerged before Nero and Estinien, portraying a garlean man in dark purple armor with his helmet off. His brown hair almost managed to cover the third eye, but Nero could still see it.
"Why in the world are you calling from an occupied…" - The image seemed to just form on his side, as seen by Valens's shocked gasp. It immediately turned into fury as he clenched his teeth. Seeing his whiny errand boy in the Legatus's armor was almost surreal. Nero could barely hold himself from bursting out laughing.
"Nero…" - Valens said spitefully.
"My long-lost apprentice…"
"Why do you bother?"
"Do you need a reason? What if I just love those bittersweet reunions?" - The engineer exclaimed in a mocking tone, getting Valens even more agitated. Would it be that easy? "Come on, don't get too angry so quickly. You hadn't lost what little touch you had before, had you?"
"You slimy scumbag!" - Valens said ferociously, the memories from simply seeing Nero have flooded his mind. "I should've known you work with the traitor and the Alliance. You're a disgrace to the Empire, just like Gaius. I'll enjoy parading both of you in chains across the capital when the time comes!" - He said with sadistic glee; his status has certainly made Valens bold. That was to be expected, but this has come with making him more susceptible to mockery.
"A man who crashed two magitek reapers into a lake because he couldn't remember where the brakes are hasn't earned a right to call a disgrace in my book." - Nero shrugged.
"It wasn't like this! It…" - Valens tried to remain as calm as possible. "No, you're just trying to waste my time here, don't you? To show off the city you conquered and drive me mad? And whoever is that pointy-eared freak?" - Valens said with hatred.
"Estinien Varlineau…And you are Valens van Varro, I take it?" - Estinien paid no attention to his insults. "Calling you wasn't my idea, but perhaps I might propose…Something sensible, like negotiations?" - Estinien said with a semi-joking tone; Nero caught it. The answer was obvious, but he wanted to hear it nonetheless.
"The only negotiations I will have is hearing your leaders beg for mercy in my correction chamber." - Valens immediately shut down the claim.
"That says it all, I suppose…" - Estinien smirked, leaving the rest to Nero. Even the Azure Dragoon got a little more sympathetic to Nero's desires after seeing Valens in person.
"You have quite an aspiration, commendable, really. Always glad to see my trainees go so far." - Nero continued. "But for some reason, it's your subordinates that are surrendering to us en masse when we arrive. Doesn't seem like your conquest is having much success. Maybe you're simply growing terribly jealous." - Nero continued to infuriate him.
"Jealous, you say? Are you to accuse me of jealousy? You, who got rabid from any small comparison of yourself with Cid Garlond?" - Valens said spitefully, making Nero feel unease for the first time since entering the lab. The engineer clenched his fist, Valens stroked some chords. No matter how much fun Nero made of him and his jealousy, on some level, he understood. "Did I open up some old wounds?" - Valens smiled.
"My wounds may be old, but you are about to acquire some remarkably fresh ones. I'll see to that." - Nero responded proudly.
"Can't wait to wipe that smile off your face when you are bereft of all hope!" - Valens shouted before cutting the transition off.
This has gone a little worse than expected, though Nero still got the lion's share of his entertainment. Scientists couldn't help but watch from the sides, absolutely enthralled and horrified at the potential consequences. Perhaps this would allow them to see Valens for what he truly was.
"And this one trains children?" - Estinien asked rhetorically with sheer disgust.
"Now you see? The sooner we bring him down, the better."
Nero might have quenched his desire for now, but he still wanted to continue the battle. He knew his duty to Gaius and that he should try to avoid doing anything reckless…Perhaps they would be able to work together this time.
…
"Have you discovered the Sapphire Weapon's remnants?"
"Yes, it's being moved to the hangar bay now."
"And what of the pilot?"
"You wouldn't want to see it."
Those words have pierced Gaius like a cerulean flame, although he knew that this was to be expected. When the Alliance engineers ventured to the depths to reclaim what remained of Sapphire weapon, they also found the last shroud of Alfonse. Ever since Gaius arrived at Terncliff, he tried to do his best to push his musings away from the loss of his son. He'd rather discuss the future of this town, face citizens, many of whom despised his entire essence, just as long as he could take a break from the horrendous sight in his head.
Yet after receiving the news, Baelsar felt no hesitation. No matter how torn, mutilated, and disfigured oversoul has made him, this was still his son, and Gaius would see that he got the respect he deserved. He envisioned much before getting a clear look, but to witness Alfonse's body was appalling. A pale creature, soaked in water and the remnants of the melted core, only distantly resembling his son. Gaius could see his emptied veins and soulless eyes as if they reflected the moon itself. What did he think at the last moment before perishing? Was it fear for his family? No, Gaius knew Alfonse better than to believe him to succumb so easily. He must have treated this as a liberation, as a final chance to release his spirit after all the torture he endured. All to save his siblings and allow them to witness a brighter future.
He should have been with them.
Gaius took it upon himself to bury Alfonse in the Terncliff graveyard. He had little help, nobody had any desire to get close to a corpse so twisted, but Milisandia was eager to help. They did not exchange comments or words; there was no need. Father and daughter would methodically dig up a grave for Alfonse before placing the corpse in the soil. Gaius would occasionally get distracted by Milisandia's petrified expression and focus on Alfonse's corpse, desperately trying to recognize the man she once knew in him.
But soon, there was nothing remaining. As the sun was falling into the darkness behind them, Gaius and Milisandia remained in front of the grave in silence, thinking of their dear son and brother. There were some words that needed to be said, much that Gaius wanted to say, but it would not do any good now. Still, the Legatus could not hold it in himself.
"Alfonse…" - Gaius stepped forward, looking down on the grave as he barely contained the pain. "From the moment we first met, I saw potential. Potential to become a fierce warrior and a proud soldier. A commander who may perhaps in one stand at my side when we finally bring Eorzea to its knees. Perhaps it might have been so, but fate had other plans. You became not the soldier, but someone much greater, embracing something that I could hardly understand at times…You became a brother. You became a protector of your family in the times of my absence. You encouraged them and led them towards a light of hope. You did what a true hero would do, even as your last act of sacrifice." - A few tears fell on the ground as Gaius spoke those words; Milisandia was watching with sympathy and slight awe. It was incredibly rare that Gaius would show his vulnerability. "I should have been there…I should have been with you. I was not. But I know why you chose to die, and I swear on the remnants of my honor…That I will do everything in my power to see them safe. Everything." - He spoke with confidence while thinking of his son's echo fainting before him.
"Father may not have been there, but he is right…" - Milisandia continued. "You were everything for us, for me. Ever since I set out in the Ruby Weapon, I couldn't stop thinking about you. I wanted to be there, I still want to be there, I want to see you again…I understand. I wish it hasn't been so, but I understand." - Milisandia wiped her tears and smiled with grief as she looked up at the darkening sky. "I know you wouldn't want us to grieve. You'd want us to remain determined and optimistic…And we will do our best in memory of you. For we will never forget."
They remained there, gazing at the sky. Gaius wasn't sure what he sought there; simply witnessing the boundless sky helped him think of the afterlife, think of what comes next for Alfonse, whether he can still listen and see…
"He'd always cheer me up when I was doubting." - Milisandia said, turning to Gaius. "Always helped me, whatever would I need…He taught me much over these years, taught me to defend myself, shared his knowledge of technology…" - She seemed to have gone shy for a moment, but soon Milisandia spoke up again. "He even…" - A grieving smile once again brimmed on her face. "He even helped me train with the gunblade. Showed how to combine its prowess with the firepower."
"A gunblade? I don't remember teaching you in…"
"It was our little experiment soon after you left. We know you advised us to be very careful with a weapon like this, but we had to try. We'd be just like you, after all!" - Milisandia explained, overwhelmed by sweet memories and admiration of both her father and brother. "We'd stage some mock fights with him and others. I'd always lose." - She giggled embarrassingly. "But he'd help me get up and say that I was doing better every time. And that smile…I'd never forget."
"And I am sure you did do better. Alfonse has always been a profound judge of character." - Gaius smiled at Milisandia, and after a few seconds, he could already feel her embrace. Gaius hugged his daughter as well; despite all the tragedy they were enduring, they were facing it together, and this meant the world.
"Do you think he hears us?" - Milisandia asked. Gaius's knowledge of the aethereal stream was limited to him hunting ascians and discerning their abilities. But there was no doubt that his soul had passed on, and if it happened recently, perhaps he would not be re-born just yet.
"Yes…I believe he does." - Gaius looked at Milisandia's hopeful eyes. "He is waiting for us to reunite with Rex, Ricon, and Allie. And we…"
"Please, don't promise it. It's too uncertain to even pretend." - Milisandia said tiredly. She realized the risk of the situation they found themselves in, of how horrific the fate of their family might be if they made as much as one wrong move.
"Well…" - Gaius sighed and allowed a proud smile to emerge on his face. "Then how about we promise to fight until the very end, whatever happens, like true warriors of the XIVth?"
"Yes…" - Milisandia looked up with hope. "I can get behind that."
Both of them would do anything for their family, and the battle was far from over.
…
Ever since Rex has arrived at the VIIth's headquarters with his siblings, he made a decision to not allow anything to go to waste. Not a single opportunity to help the children suffering under Valens's rule or to learn something about their lunatic Legatus's plan. It bore some results over the course of his actions. Rex learned that some children were not entirely brainwashed, only pretending. That they still longed for an opportunity to get out of this hell…As for Valens's plans, the rumors that circled around were not hard to believe. He wanted to use the weapons not just to conquer Eorzea but to claim Galmemald's throne. Everyone else was pawns in this maniacal game of his. As Rex conducted the research, he tried to keep Allie and Ricon as far away from this as possible; he would let himself get in trouble before allowing any harm to come to them.
One such opportunity arose when Rex was summoned into Valen's chambers. As the messenger said, it was on the "matters of the weapon," and it was enough for Rex to realize what he was getting himself into. When they arrived, Valens told Rex that he would become the pilot of the Emerald weapon…Rex prayed that this wasn't his time yet. He would be forced to fight his father and Milisandia, fight the Alliance that showed mercy when the Empire had none. And then he would either sacrifice himself in the oversoul or give up and join Gaius and Milisandia. In the first case, he left them alone with no one to care for them, just like in the second, but they would be subject to pain.
Rex still held out hope as he approached Valens's office. Perhaps Legatus would simply explain the weapon's functions and sanction some training for him with a few more days before the next step of his plan, whatever it was. As he approached the door, Rex carefully placed his hand on the handle, not having enough courage to open it. He couldn't make the sacrifice just yet, not before Allie and Ricon were safe…For a moment, Rex felt ashamed of never believing in many gods, for he had no one to pray to.
"I'm growing tired of your riddle-talk…" - As Rex pushed the door lightly, this was the first sound he heard. Valens's angered voice as he talked to a figure Rex could not quite witness. His presence didn't seem noticed; the au ra let go of the handle and leaned onto a nearby wall, leaving a small crack, just enough for him to hear.
"Have we not gone many times over this, my dear lord Valens?" - A maniacal and malicious, yet at the same time, a rather playful and elusive voice responded. "My interests align with yours, even though there is no need to enlighten you on my reasons for aid while you reap that which I saw. Or perhaps you would like to be bored to death instead of planning your…Glorious conquest? I doubt it." - He continued with glee.
"What I would like is to know what's going on in here, as anyone would." - Valens pushed on to no avail.
"Ah…Well, don't you have any appreciation for fantastic surprises at all? How could you blame me for caring about your excitement?" - The stranger said, theatrically mimicking offense. He sounded different, but Rex couldn't quite pin it down. Even Valens did not have such…Looming malice in his voice. "And while we're at it, how about we discuss something much more relevant? Has your lordship made the changes to the Emerald weapon I proposed?"
"Yes, I did…And don't claim this to be your idea, demon. Had I not been distracted by other nuisance, I would've come with it myself!" - He spoke with agitation.
"Oh, my poor lord! I swear I did not mean to offend; simply making sure that all goes according to your plan. You are indeed a genius man, my lord; perhaps you even decided to cut the access to voice amplifiers in the weapon? So as to avoid any unnecessary communication…"
"I…Yes, of course, that has been on my mind."
"How delightful. I knew a mind like yours would not have such details go amiss." - The stranger seemed excited while at the same time maintaining a level of mockery towards Valens. Yet the Legatus took it despite his distaste, were it anyone else, he would make them face unimaginable suffering.
"Of course, I would not…" - Valens seemed to fall for his empty praise. "There's a reason why I am the greatest engineer Garlemald has ever created!"
"Yes, I see…I cannot wait to witness your Diamond Weapon spur into the sky, ready to annihilate all of your foes in an artistic show of force! Yet, I have to allow for some reasonable doubt…"
"What are you implying?"
"The loss of Ruby and Sapphire is a very unfortunate turn, which could prolong our time of waiting. Were it to happen once, I'd understand it to be an accident, but twice seems to form a certain pattern…"
Rex heard Valens's sword slashing through the air.
"Watch your mouth!"
The stranger's voice echoed again, albeit this time, he was much closer to the door.
"No need for violence; I am only here to ensure your success! Or would you like me to abandon you and rid you of my services? You know I could do it any time…"
"No, wait." - Valens spoke with shocking meekness. "There is no need for it. You said our partnership is mutually beneficial, haven't you?"
Indeed it is! The people of Garlemald need a strong ruler after all their losses, a one like you…You cannot deny how far my help has got you. Speaking of that, you'd be glad to hear that my distraction is almost ready. Just precious few more days…" - He spoke without fear, fueled by the tremendous force of anticipation.
"What kind of distraction?"
"As I've told you…It ruins the joy to reveal surprises beforehand."
"I see…" - Valens spoke with anger at first, but then he just resigned. Rex has never seen him do this before; Valens would never miss the opportunity to give a show of his force. "Go, I have enough to take care of."
"I wish you a fortunate conquest." - The voice echoed once again before a pause. He resumed in a second, speaking quietly, but something was different. Rex felt shivers as the dreadful sense of dark manifestation has taken over him. He was right, being Rex's back. "How rude of you to listen."
Rex recoiled and turned around, seeing a young man with short ebon hair and darkened eyes, clad in pale robes and constantly maintaining a horrendous smile on his face.
"Who are you?" - The pilot spoke with shock and anger. "You knew…"
"Have no worries; I am not to interfere in your business with van Varro. I have other matters to attend to, just as you do…Protecting those children must be exhausting; I wonder if a part of you wants to join your brother in the stream." - Those words were the last straw for Rex's anger which was emerging since his arrival here. He grabbed the man by his neck, seamlessly pushing him to the wall. The stranger giggled in response, slowly turning his sound into a burst of sadistic laughter.
"Don't you dare talk of my family like that!" - Rex fumes with hatred.
"So much anger…You would be quick to succumb when the time comes!" - The stranger seemed intrigued and even entertained by this.
"Succumb? What are you talking about? Who even are you?"
"Shhh…All will be revealed in time." - He shushed and spoke in a whisper, almost as if trying to calm down a child. "You'll know when the time comes. Suffice to say…I am a harbinger that will open the gate for something…Something that will make you forget the pain and break the shackles of your meaningless existence." - He spoke like a madman, with just as much pride in his voice for his horrific actions. Before Rex could do something. The stranger used an alien source of magic, creating a rift of darkness. In the next instant, he disappeared in it, leaving no trace of himself in the corridor. What did it all mean? Rex didn't want to imagine. Valens on his own was monstrous enough, but he was in contact with…Someone. Someone Rex knew nothing about, yet it was clear from his words and magic that this man was a menace. Every single day when Rex was hoping that he learned a little more, that he made sense of this…He was met with a revelation like this. A horrifying knowledge of another force that threatens him and his family…When will they finally be able to get some rest?
Rex couldn't hold his fury; the au ra punched a wall, and his rib cage burned as he was about to let out a scream. Why, why, why…He needed to stay strong. He needed to endure. Rex wondered how long would it take for him to lose his patience and sanity were Ricon and Allie were not here…
"What is the meaning of this?!" - Valens left his room, speaking with a furious voice. He dropped his playful and maniacal tone, replacing it with raw anger. Apparently, this stranger got on his nerves. "If you haven't noticed, fool, the door is over there." - He said with disgust, grabbing Rex's hand and dragging him towards the office. "I try not to get surprised by your kind's degeneracy, but each time one of you manages to reach a new low…" - More hurtful words. More hatred and disgust threw at Rex because Valens felt angry at the stranger but couldn't quite display the same levels of power with him. So he would prey on the weak like any coward would. "Come on in, let's hope there is some space in that brain of yours left for my instructions." - No, this was just too much.
Rex pushed Valens away, unexpectedly even for the Legatus himself. When his grip was loosened, the au ra was able to maintain his distance. He didn't think about his actions, but the sheer disgust and humiliation forced, combined with discovering a dark plot thickening behind the curtain, pushed Rex over his tipping point. No more could he just kneel and endure.
"And what is this?" - Valens said as he looked at Rex with disgust, and at this moment, something changed about the au ra's perception. He always saw Valens as a terrifying, monstrous figure, which overshadowed any other opinions he might have had of him. But now, he looked like a coward. A weak, pathetic man who would grovel before those stronger than him, too scared to stand up for himself, and then bring out his bitterness and jealousy on those "beneath" him. He had no real power, no respect or admiration, only fear and hatred, which he cultivated in the heart of his followers. Rex knew he should be afraid of repercussions, but he simply did not. Rex stood tall as he looked at this angry garlean, undeserving of any position he now had.
"Perhaps if you truly were as powerful as you want to be seen, you wouldn't have taken humiliation from some phantom. Wouldn't have accepted help from someone who barely cares!" - Rex spoke with confidence. He tried to focus on the moment and not think about anything that would happen later. Seeing Valens's shock and fury as one of his underlings managed to talk back.
"Such insolence!" - His shout echoed through the corridor. "I, Valens van Varro, gave you home, gave you purpose!" - He clenched his fist but avoided direct eye contact. It was clear that this outburst was not intended; the chords were struck. "And after my kindness and generosity, this is how filth like you responds?!"
"Yes, and you should be grateful!" - Rex lashed out. "Grateful that after all those beatings, all those torture and lies we still serve you, still put some damn faith into your failing regime! How many of your followers are truly loyal? How many of them care, and how many are just bound by their fear?" - He moved bravely towards the angered Legatus.
"You don't know the real meaning of fear, boy!"
"Perhaps, but I know the meaning of honor and loyalty. I served under the man who led by example, who commanded respect; you are nothing like him! Even after his disgrace, there are still people who put their faith in him, who don't believe lies about the assassination of the Emperor. Gaius is that man, and you are nothing like him!" - It felt cathartic to say. To unleash all of his fury and hatred towards this scum while making him feel inferior to Gaius. Rex saw how anger covered shame in Valens's gaze. His insecurity and jealousy were on the brink of breaking out. "He was a father and a commander you will never be, and everyone knows it! Even Milisandia turned to…" - Rex went silent abruptly as he realized the horrible mistake he had made, but it was too late. Valens noticed his fear, seemingly emerging out of the blue, and this gave him a moment to reinstate his power. His anger was gone, replaced by the usual sadistic smile. Rex could see it, a spark in his eyes which suggested that he was getting the joy of this, no matter how twisted it might have been.
"Milisandia, huh? I take it, you know…" - He said playfully, putting Rex in a shameful position. He shouldn't have said it; he shouldn't have…Valens laughed. Cackled hysterically at the sight of Rex, of how quickly he became meek and fearful, leaving nothing of his demeanor. All of his courage and his anger all collapsed in a single second. Now he knows that they were acting outside of his orders, that they knew something he did not want them to know. "Ahahah, ahahahah!" - When Valens composed himself, he looked at Rex with an entertained smile. "You know how to make a fool of yourself. That will be all for today." - Valens turned around the door, ready to stay in the office; Rex was perplexed.
"But the weapon…"
"It seems you are not yet fit for your instructions. Perhaps another day, now stop bothering me." - He didn't even look back before locking the door, leaving Rex alone once again, hating himself for this stupid error.
But now, the horror grew worse. Rex was expecting Valens to send him to the correction chamber or even execution…But there was nothing. For the first time in Rex's memory, he just left, seemingly leaving the insolence unpunished. This made no sense; Valens would never do something like this…Unless he needs time planning a profound punishment.
This thought was enough to annihilate Rex's world.