When Gaius finally got a chance to breathe and, at last, feel safe and relieved, the Shadowhunter could hardly believe this was possible at all. It took some time to process and to realize, but his mission was accomplished, and what remained was out of his control. Gaius tried to contact Raubahn but received no answer, at least not initially.
And so he was left with his family, Fordola, and a few more aimless children that did not follow the garlean soldiers, be it out of fear or sheer confusion. All of them have remained near the fortress, so it would be easier for an Alliance airship to pick them up. They met the dawn together, yet the atmosphere of worry and terror has continued to permeate them. Gaius could not get rid of it so easily; Fordola could not either. She remained with the freed children and walked around them nervously with her thoughts plagued by what they witnessed.
Valdeaulin's death has begun to weigh heavily on Gaius; the elezen had followed him despite all the pain he endured from Gaius and the garleans, even forgiving him shortly before sacrificing his own life. He did it for what he had always longed for, saving a family…Perhaps it was not his, but according to Milisandia's words, he died with a smile. He would receive the highest honors, and Gaius will make sure his sacrifice is not forgotten.
Eventually, he got a call from Raubahn, explaining the situation in detail. It was hard to believe at first, though Gaius knew both Estinien and Nero could be reckless enough to perform such a feat. The Shadowhunter's heart sprang as he heard of the Diamond Weapon's fall, as well as the tower's destruction. It seemed that the killing spree Fandaniel intended was halted before it even began, yet it did not make the other news any easier to receive.
Nero's demise had struck Gaius like a sharpened blade, and he would not expect it to be this way. They were never on perfect footing. Gaius would criticize Nero's recklessness and arrogance in the XIVth, at times even wishing that it was Cid at his side instead of Nero, never willing to give the latter recognition he deserved. This carried on into the times when they switched sides but refused to betray their nature. Nero was not the one to care for lives when a glorious invention was within his reach, but for all his flaws, he was not a coward. He believed his life to be just as expendable when it came to making choices. He might have doomed his son…But he saved thousands with this heroic act. The sting of realization has become unbearable, that only now had Gaius truly realized Nero's value, that only now he was ready to say the words buried in his consciousness for years, but he would not be here to listen.
Gaius turned to those who were his solace now. His children have been reunited with him finally…After all trials, tribulations, and losses, it was over. Valens was gone, all of the weapons were gone, and the last shade of both the VIIth and the XIVth Legions had now faded into oblivion. They were all that remained of the past, so perhaps it was time to let it go and look into the future. To build up that which was lost. Gaius watched Rex and Ricon sitting together on the sand, enthralled by the sunrise and finally able to smile. It took strength to maintain this resolve after the trauma they endured. The Shadowhunter has taught them well.
"He put me into the room, and I had to wait for a few days…" - Ricon recounted with some trembling. "Thought he was going to kill you with all the talk going around the guards. And when I saw you, it's just…Your horn…"
"Don't worry, it's a small price to pay. Him killing me would have been the smart thing to do, too smart for him." - Rex smiled with pride and resilience. "He wanted me to become subservient and grovel, did't get it for a second."
"I guess you were right, huh…We needed to act."
"Wouldn't have done much without help from father and others, but it was worth every second…You should have seen it. Valens was going psychotic on us; he probably realized that he had so many opportunities to finish us off and didn't do it because he is that insane…I despise him; I wanted to kill him slowly and painfully after what he did to us." - Rex spoke with uncertainty. "But now…I can't force myself to care. He got exactly what he deserved. I don't want to think about that monster anymore."
"We're just all tired." - Ricon spoke with care and sympathy. "Thinking about it wouldn't make it better, so maybe…Just leave it behind?"
"Yeah…" - Rex sighed and looked at his brother with a smile. "Well, I guess your pacifist approach does have merit, after all." - He said sarcastically.
"Approach?"
"Didn't you tell me to always forgive others? And how I never bothered to listen?"
"I meant forgive those who are rash from time to time, not someone like Valens!" - Ricon recoiled. "We should just forget about him and think about something else."
"All in due time." - Rex looked at Milisandia, who seemed to be spending time with the children they rescued. They have been scared and cornered, not willing to save a single word. Fordola guarded them but did not see much purpose in talk. Milisandia kneeled and looked at them with her kind eyes. Gaius watched her too, and it was bliss…To see his daughter become the woman she wanted, to care for others and build up instead of destroying. "Well, she's found something already."
Rex smiled; Ricon stood up and strolled to join his sister. The au ra has been careful in her approach. She walked towards one of the children, a little girl gazing at her with empty eyes.
"I won't hurt you, I promise…" - She extended her hand gently without touching the child. The girl looked at Milisandia with fear, as did all others. Yet they would not recoil or even look away, for there was warmth and empathy radiated by Gaius's daughter that they have been attracted to. The Shadowhunter could only imagine how much suffering did they go through with Valens. He had to wonder whether this much psychological damage could even be made right, but Gaius retained his faith…The one for his own children who endured all the hardships thrown at them and have now grown into heroes, each one of them.
Ricon watched Milisandia from behind, trying not to interrupt her. She tried to calm the girl down as she got slightly closer. It was evident from the child's eyes as they moved…As she looked up for the first time. She was staring into her own reflection, at someone who had served in the Empire ever since childhood, was tortured, exhausted, and forced on a killing spree. Now, this was a proud young woman who endured and looked at the future with pride instead of fear.
"Wi…" - The child began to speak, though immediately stopped after seeing a shade of surprise on Milisandia's face. Gaius's daughter quickly realized her mistake and retained her motherly smile.
"It's alright, you can talk." - She said kindly yet confidently.
"Will you…Give us home? "- The girl said with emerging hope. Milisandia waited for a few moments, noticing her brother watching. Ricon's supportive gaze was enough for her to continue.
"Yes…Yes, we will. There is a town near the sea which has recently been freed from evil people that have taken over it. The same ones that have forced you to do things you didn't want to. It can be your home now, a home for all of us." - She smiled, likely imagining Terncliff in her mind. This was precisely the outcome Gaius expected, and he was ready to accept those children into the fold. That is what Alfonse would have wanted.
"Hey." - He saw Rex approaching as he called his father with a shade of concern. "We'll get through this like we always do. That weapon's just a crazed machine, I'm sure it can be outsmarted." - His son encouraged him as best as he could, and Gaius appreciated it.
"Thank you, Rex…" - This wasn't the response they needed. Looking at his children as they reunited has made Gaius forget about some of the more pressing information and its sharing. "Can you call the others? There's something to tell."
"Anything important?"
"Quite so."
Rex nodded and called his siblings. Both were swift to approach Gaius; there were pressing matters to share.
"So, gonna keep us in the dark for long?" - Rex crossed his hands.
"Raubahn called to inform us of what happened with the Diamond Weapon. It's over." - Gaius sighed with encroaching relief and pain. "It is destroyed, along with the tower."
"Really?" - Ricon said in disbelief, but soon excitement overtaken his face. "That's great news! That means that's it…We win!"
"But how?" - Milisandia wondered.
"Nero fought it in his own machine and won, but he paid the price…"
"Do you mean he used the Ruby Weapon?" - Rex asked.
"All of its power." - Gaius said, and his children understood. It has been a long time since Rex and Ricon have seen Nero, but he saw Milisandia look down to the ground. He knew her pain and felt it as well. She wasn't the one to stay angry for long and remembered him as an invaluable friend…Gaius will remember him so, too.
"I know he fought against Alfonse in Terncliff…" - Rex began. "We didn't know what he wanted back then, so he decided to go and…Damn." - He was trying to be angry but couldn't make him. Gaius saw shades of grief in his eyes, remembering the proud engineer as he once knew him.
"Yet another we lost." - Gaius said grimly. He didn't want to show much weakness before his children, but perhaps this was the best time to share his pain, for after going through such hell, it felt more than earned. "I still keep thinking about them…So many lives could have been saved had my decisions been different. Had I not put my faith in Lahabrea, had I predicted that Nero would try to take the weapon, had I found another way to save Allie…"
"You did all you could." - Ricon tried to bring him some peace.
"I should have done more. I should have come back for you before you were thrown into Valens's hands. Yet my arrogance has forced me into another path, and I wanted to apologize to all of you because of it." - He relayed his regret, seeing his children's sympathy. Rex was the one to shake his head.
"Please, father, stop regretting the past. If you won't do it for your sake, at least do it for ours." - His voice quivered as Rex clenched his fist. "We all have our mistakes. Some will haunt us till the end of days…Do you know why Allie was forced to pilot a weapon? Because of me!" - He shouted, letting out his pain. "Because I was a damn idiot who couldn't keep his mouth shut and gave Valens what he deserved. Of course, he couldn't simply kill me after that, he needed to make me suffer, and he took her and…Just for the sake of it! That monster…" - A tear fell down Rex's face; Ricon was quick to offer him an embrace, though it didn't do much to calm him down. Gaius saw the agony that pierced his son.
"Allie would forgive you." - Gaius said, garnering Rex's attention. "As do I."
"I… Don't deserve it." - Rex said, though it was clear that Gaius's words had touched him deeply. If there was any solace in this forgiveness, then Gaius hoped Rex would make the best of it.
"And we forgive you." - He heard Milisandia's warm voice, unexpectedly for himself, though it forced Gaius to feel…Joy? Relief? "You say you made mistakes, but just look at what you did for us. You protected me before Ala Mhigans when I was at their mercy; you stormed Castrum Marinum and fought a weapon which can annihilate whole cities…And you've risked your life to save Rex and Ricon from the whole Legion. Look how far we've gone! And we wouldn't have survived if it wasn't for you! It's only now that we can continue our life as we imagined it…And that's why all of them gave their lives. Alfonse, Nero, Valdeaulin…They knew what they fought for. And I know that they look at us from the stream and smile. Because they know that their battle wasn't for nothing, and yours wasn't too."
Gaius felt incredibly shaken by those words. The Shadowhunter felt his heart melting at seeing the three of them smile. Even his steel resolve that protected him from emotional pain and damage could not withstand it. A tear fell down Gaius's eye as his daughter offered an embrace.
"We love you, father."
"And I love you…"
Yes, now Gaius had no doubt that he had found his home. The Empire was left behind, but it did not mean that his purpose was no more. The Shadowhunter looked to the sun, thinking of all he had lost and how their souls peered at them with pride. Livia, Rhitathyn, Allie, Alfonse, Severa, Valdeaulin, Nero…They will all be remembered, and Gaius has been incredibly thankful for them who helped him find himself once again, to find his children once again.
For they were his true home.
…
The victory achieved at the tower was nothing short of miraculous, and Estinien knew that it was thanks to Nero's brave sacrifice.
It was yet another time when the dragoon had to admit that he was wrong. At first, it seemed that Nero was a somewhat talented yet arrogant and chaotic individual, who could easily do more hard than good in a team, but he managed to surprise Estinien. He did not try to escape or wait out; he chose to give him life in an insane attempt to stop the catastrophe before it raged. And he did, he did…
This is why Estinien stayed for long enough to give his respects. The ironworks ventured for the weapons' remnants, though that wasn't what Cid cared about the most. Biggs and Wedge have found the avatar of White Raven, into which Nero has transformed after activating the oversoul. The engineers managed to cover most of the body with blankets once it was brought to Ala Mhigo and the conference hall, but the face was left open.
Estinien watched closely as the mutated pale body was lying near the large coffin, its meting wings hung down from the table. Cid was standing there, looking at Nero's face. Eyes wide open, looking to the sky and a proud smile on his face. Even now, Estinien could recognize Nero's features on Nael. There was a part of him remaining inside that weapon until the shutdown, there was no doubt.
"He was a hero until the end." - Estinien said as he stood beside Cid. The engineer sighed and shook his head.
"That he was…But you can also be a hero without giving your life away like…This." - He spoke with grief. For all their conflicts and strife, there was a bond between two magitek masters, though perhaps it was never as evident as it was now. "I know there was no other way, but…" - Cid clenched his fist for a moment before sighing and not allowing himself to get consumed by anger. "All the jokes, lightheartedness, the chaos he brought by his simple participation…Gods know, I will miss you, Nero. Going out before you had a chance to pay back for the damn gil you took…As ingenious as ever." - His voice quivered at those words.
"Chief…" - They heard Wedge's voice as the lalafell entered the room; his voice was just as pained. "We scoured the remnants of both weapons; there are some elements that can still be used for G-Warrior, though I'm afraid most is beyond repair."
"You did all you could. Let's just make sure to make good use of what we have."
"There's also something else." - Wedge took a small magitek device out of his pocket and gave it to Cid. "We found it in the Ruby Weapon. Seems like this one stores some data, but it's encrypted, and we haven't really figured out what to do with the thing."
"Thanks, I'll take a look." - Cid took the device and eyed it with interest. Perhaps there could be some extra combat data for Cid's new invention, though Estinien was unlikely to stay for long enough to see it decrypted.
Their musings have been interrupted by the opening doors. As the dragoon looked behind, he witnessed Raubahn entering the room, but he wasn't alone. Gaius and three young au ra have followed him. Each of them went through unspeakable torment and trials, and each of them had to carry the burden of their own scars. Yet they remained proud of what they had accomplished and took joy in the moment of their freedom. Estinien couldn't help but smile as he finally saw the family reunited. He immediately noticed Gaius's gaze on himself.
"After all we've been through, you continue to impress me, ser Estinien." - The Shadowhunter smiled. "Thank you, from all of my family." - He said, followed up by Rex.
"The moment I saw you jumping on that weapon, I thought you were suicidal! Father seemed strangely confident, thoughtful, and I can see why." - The au ra said with awe.
"It's the same man that saved me and managed to open the cockpit. I expected nothing less." - Milisandia said, looking at Estinien gleefully. For all their losses, it has been a moment of happiness.
"And how did your escape go? "- Estinien wondered.
"Better than it could have been…Though we lost Valdeaulin." - Gaius said quietly. Estinien did not know the duskwight for long, but he was a noble soul who deserved to be commemorated.
"He's not the only one…Nero did most of the work here." - Estinien said as he pointed to the body, though judging by Gaius's reaction, he was already aware of it. His children have already gathered around and looked at the body with grief and shades of horror. Milisandia especially seemed the most affected, she knew Nero better than others, and this fate was something she had been only a step away from falling into.
"Thank you, Nero…For everything." - She said quietly. Estinien and Gaius continued to watch from a distance. The Shadowhunter was not disturbed by seeing the mutated body. This would be far from the first time, but Estinien saw the many regrets in his eyes, and it would take time for the feeling of loss to sting.
"We brought him here for goodbyes…" - Raubahn said heavily as he stood near the two. "I assume you have something to say?"
"Yes, I do." - Gaius nodded. "Though I'd wait for my children and Cid to say goodbyes first, my thought has not yet…Formed, so to say."
"Then there is something else I wanted to say. I know you're leaving, Estinien, but you need to hear it too." - Raubahn began. "Our scouts from Garlemald brought a grim report. If you thought those towers were bad, wait until you see the one there. The land is decimated, and people have been tempered by the giant tower which was once the Imperial Palace." - The general recounted with disdain.
"The one that controls the others, perhaps?" - Gaius suggested.
"Fandaniel's work, no doubt. I have sent my letters to other leaders of the Alliance to discuss invading Garlemald when we are prepared. If we leave the matter as it is, it will only get worse…I don't know what the cataclysm that madman speaks about is, but his power is considerable."
"When you're ready, all I need is a word." - Estinien said eagerly. When the time comes to unravel this chaos and purge out corruption, he will be there in the battle's heart.
"I knew I could count on you. There is the matter of resisting tempering, though we will do all we can to solve that…"
There was much to discuss and ponder, but Estinien wished for a reprieve. Not from battling, that was impossible until the crisis was resolved, but plans and politics have never been his area of expertise. The dragoon stayed for a while longer to see others say their goodbyes to Nero. Gaius was the last one to look him in the eyes with grief and regret. He spoke of Nero's heroics, of how his courage would cause him to do irresponsible things, yet often those actions have turned out with brilliance, just like his sacrifice. Gaius had his regrets over not giving Nero the recognition he deserved, but Estinien saw his care now.
And so, the dragoon found himself watching a family reunite and mourn their fallen friend. The bittersweet moment they have worked towards through their trials and battles. As for Estinien…It wasn't easy to watch. He worked for it and wanted to see Gaius reunite with them, but the memories of the scions, of Alphinaud it has brought into his mind have become a plague. He needed to talk about it with someone who understood to decide whether he could believe Fandaniel's words or not. He did not linger for long, and when the moment came, it was time for him to go.
"Leaving already?" - He heard Gaius's voice from behind.
"Yes…There is much to do, too much."
"Good luck with that, though I believe you will manage just as well without it. Perhaps we will fight together again one day…It happened much sooner than expected last time."
"Let's hope the circumstances will be different…And not worse."
After saying their goodbyes, Estinien left the hall. He was ready to teleport to Mor Dhona, but not before taking one glance at Ala Mhigo. For the first time since the attack, it seemed like people were not afraid anymore. They left their houses, talked, and lived their lives despite the ruins always being by their side. They were resilient people, and Estinien knew they would rebuild…But there are only so many catastrophes anyone can take, and they weren't over yet.
"Don't enjoy big gatherings, huh?" - The dragoon noticed Fordola approaching him.
"Not per se, though now that my job here is done, I'd rather be elsewhere."
"You don't have to excuse yourself before me; we aren't that different." - She said with light sarcasm.
"You seem quite happy today." - The dragoon noted bluntly.
"Well, I'm trying to take Arenvald's advice. And considering that I managed to survive the whole bloody fortress collapsing, followed by the hellish machine being destroyed along with that tower. If that's not something to be a little cheery for, I might just as well be brooding forever." - She was relieved.
"I'm afraid that's far from the end of it. Raubahn is planning an invasion to destroy the central tower, and I'll join him on it."
"Perhaps I will, too, if I get too bored of living…" - Fordola said. "Good luck, Estinien. Got to say, ain't half-bad working with you."
"I'll take that as a compliment." - Estinien smiled before preparing his teleport. It was time to speak with Krile, for this time, he knew exactly what troubled her.
…
As Milisandia and her family returned to Terncliff, there were many unsolved troubles remaining, and they were aware of it. One tower was destroyed, but all the others still overshadowed kingdoms in Eorzea and beyond. With the Ruby Weapon gone, there was no clear way of destroying them. Milisandia wished she knew more, wished she could create something that would protect her from tempering like some garleans would, but she accepted that this is a battle someone else will fight while she and her family get a reprieve they needed.
And there could hardly be anything more enamoring that living in Terncliff. Milisandia adored the serenity of this city, which had slowly been returning after the crisis had been averted. People there have been far from the towers and did not take it as anything more than just distant legends that would never threaten them. Whether this was true or not, Milisandia didn't know, but they enjoyed the peace while it lasted. She saw children smile and eagerly run on the streets under the sea breeze; they played freely and without fear as their parents watched with love. So many families have been spared the horrors and were given a chance at a life they always yearned for. Was that not something worth fighting for?
And those whose families have perished in Werlyt…Could still find something. Even if nothing ever replaces their lost parents, they could still acquire companionship here. Milisandia was a frequent visitor to the orphanage and helped Avilina there. The children there were delighted to hear that the weapons would no longer torment any of them, but they also had to accept some new visitors…Those from the VIIth have taken some time to get used to the place, as Avilina said. It took them a while to begin talking and stop being afraid of any attempt to make contact with them, but with each passing day, they would open up more. When Milisandia and Avilina saw one of those children playing with natives, showing genuine happiness with a smile on his face, their hearts were filled with joy.
Just like the hearts of her brothers were. Rex and Ricon have longed for freedom, and now they have finally reached their dream. Seeing Rex spend his time getting to know other people and not feeling any pressure from the Empire was always a treat. His experiences of battling alongside his father have left a profound mark on Rex, and he began taking lessons in fencing from Gaius. A few more months and Milisandia could expect him to become a masterful warrior. Ricon spent time amidst nature and outside the city; he took solace in how this place provided him with time to think. He spent most of his life looking up to his siblings, but Milisandia knew he was eager to carve his own path now.
And for all of them, father was always there to look up to. Milisandia knew that after all the battles, he needed rest and time to ponder on what had gone on. But once the time of grieving was over, he could become the man he wanted. Gaius took charge of the town and made everything in his power to restore it and make it a place one would want to live in. Some had trouble accepting it but eventually saw the benefits of his influence. Of course, she and her brothers would be with him every step of the way. The more time they spent together, the more they could see him smile, enjoying his life here. It has been a long path for him, but the end he dreamed of might be finally at hand.
And few memories could rival the time when they descended to the shore and swam in the azure sea. It took some time to convince Gaius to come, but their old man eventually gave in and did not regret it. Seeing Ricon gleam with excitement reminded Milisandia of how he once was before all the horrors they faced. She used this opportunity to unleash her inner child and revel in the playful water. They managed to get a smile even out of Rex, who then eagerly joined them in their games. Those were the moments that made their life so much easier to understand…For every time she would wonder if the suffering and torment had been worth it, the answer would always be in her memory.
But it didn't mean that all her memories were ones of joy and hope. Milisandia would often find herself at a graveyard looking at the twin graves. This was the memory of Alfonse and Allie and the dream they shared with their siblings. At times she couldn't stop imagining how majestic it would be had they been with them at this moment. Had they stood by father's side in Terncliff…But at least they were together on the other side now. She wished she could thank Alfonse for all his support, but perhaps her admiration of him was enough. He embraced his fate, no matter how cruel and twisted it might be. And this inspired Milisandia to do the same, she may never be able to fully right her wrongs, but it was never late to try and work for it.
Amidst her pondering, she noticed Rex stopping near the graves. A scarred yet proud au ra with only one horn, just like her. A mark of their past, but also a symbol of their unity and bond.
"I miss them…" - Rex said quietly as he gazed at Allie's grave. "I want to apologize to her, but what good would it do?"
"The best you can do for her is allow yourself to live…As hard as it is."
"Yes, I understand…" - Rex nodded. "Do you think it will get better?"
Milisandia shrugged, wishing she knew the answer.
"If we believe in it…Maybe." - Maybe this was the best time to tell about her plans, not to focus on their grief for too long. "I've been meaning to say… I'll return to Ala Mhigo soon." - The au ra declared.
"What for? Its people probably despise you now." - Rex seemed surprised.
"That's why I'm going. I destroyed much of their city, and I want to help them rebuild it with anything I can. Wrote to Raubahn about it already…It won't bring back their lost friends and relatives, but it's the least I can do." - She was hopeful that this would allow her victims to find some solace. Rex deliberated on her decision for a few moments, but Milisandia knew she understood.
"Where have you learned such virtue?"
"Alfonse saw to that." - The woman smiled in return.
"I suppose there is no point trying to hold you back, then." - Rex giggled and said proudly. "Be careful, though. If anyone tries to hurt you, just tell me; I'll quickly put the bastard in their place." - Rex seemed eager.
"Must you always be so protective?" - Milisandia responded playfully.
"Come on, you're a girl who grew up with three brothers. How are you not used to this yet?" - Rex chuckled, radiating the warmth and care that he had to forfeit a long time ago. This made Milisandia remember and once again realize that their happiness would return, sooner or later, of that she was certain.
"Thank you…" - She said and hugged her brother. Rex found it slightly awkward at first but quickly returned the embrace.
"You know, everything might have changed, but you are just as big of a softie as ever." - Rex joked.
"Oh, come on…"
"And we love you for it."
Now Milisandia felt much more confident in her decision. She will make things better; she will try her best. Rex has encouraged her to see to that.
"I know you'll make us all even more proud…Good luck"
…
Estinien's return to the Rising Stones has been met with unabashed intrigue from the city's populace, not surprising considering the most recent news of events he took part in. Yet something about the town looked very different to the dragoon, something that he did not quite feel during his last visit. The bleakness has immediately given the place away; the entire town was overtaken by the atmosphere of silent grief and impending doom. People would rarely traverse the streets, and the merchants had far less excitement on their faces, even when calling people in to buy their wares. The conversations became quieter and were filled with rumors about towers and weapons. Some Helton was relieved that those horrors had happened far away from Revenant's Toll, while others anticipated the next phase in horror. The news must have reached them all the way from Ala Mhigo.
But he did not come here to observe the public, Estinien requested a meeting with Krile, and she eagerly obliged. It wasn't long before the two gathered at the cafe above the town's ground for a few drinks and words. Fortunately, Krile had let go of the demeanor Estinien remembered from his first visit and was much more eager to discuss what had occurred, though it wasn't any easier for her. Estinien took little pleasure in forcing the wounds to open, but they had no other choice.
"So…You saw Fandaniel, I take it." - Krile took her cup of tea and made a small sip while looking at Estinien.
"Unfortunately, yes." - The dragoon replied grimly, unwilling to drink just yet. "He was manipulating Valens and the weapons we fought, culminating in an attempt to send the last one on an omnicidal spree. He made an error."
"Yes, everyone has been talking about that story…I guess we all owe our lives to you now. Are you sure you don't want to be a scion?" - Krile let out a faint smile, trying to lighten up the mood, but it would hardly take away from the thought plaguing them.
"I was just helping; most of it you can attribute to Gaius and Nero."
"I'm sure your contribution was just as notable, don't sell yourself short." - Krile said, but she would soon return to the original topic after finally bracing herself. "I know what Fandaniel said about others, but you've heard it all in person…How did he describe it?" - She asked in a pained voice, putting the cup down and leaning on the table in hopeful anticipation. Estinien put his hand to his chin, trying to remember the exact way he presented it. It was easy to get overwhelmed with the towers appearing so soon after the Emerald Weapon and miss some details.
"He said that he felt a disturbance from another world, which made him certain Edwin, Alphinaud, and others were dead." - Estinien recounted. "A ripple effect, so to say. My best guess is it has something to do with echo…I immediately thought of you when he mentioned the feeling." - The dragoon said.
"Am I that transparent?" - Krile sat back and sighed with pain. "I should have told you, should have told Tataru… I'm sorry."
"I understand why you didn't." - Estinien shook his head. "Making others worry due to a distant disturbance wouldn't have been the most practical thing to do."
"It wasn't just a disturbance…I felt a massive explosion of light, with an aetheric essence in the center. I don't know how I knew, but I was certain that it was Edwin's. It burned brighter than any star, and then…It was all over. I haven't felt his presence ever since, and I know I shouldn't, but after this…"
"How is Tataru holding up?"
"She says that I shouldn't worry too much, that we can't really trust the words of an ascian and random disturbances…She believes in Edwin, but I can see she is as horrified as I was when I felt it." - Krile spoke warmly of her friend's resolve, yet she feared for her all the same. "She believes in Edwin. She believes that they can persevere."
"She might be right." - Estinien said. "Fandaniel's goal is to stir chaos; of course, he will lie about it if this would be of any help. And the way you describe a disturbance, there is nothing except for Edwin's essence fading…And we both know he has always survived in all kinds of situations." - He didn't know whether this was true or not, Estinien had his doubts, but he would never believe a crazed ascian in that his friends who he saw endure the most insane trials have perished now.
"I guess you're right…When you're trying to stage an apocalypse, might as well plunge the people into a panic." - Krile said, though it was clear from her voice that she remained unconvinced. Estinien did not wish to grant false reassurance, but forcing oneself into premature doom has been just as destructive.
"We will learn soon enough…But there's much else to do." - Estinien decided to discuss their next steps. This will be of much more use than simply musing on the theories. "The invasion of Garlemald is incoming, but there is still the risk of tempering."
"I've been working on that, though I can't say there is much on that front." - Krile sighed. "I've written to the Forum in Old Sharlayan. I expressed my…Sympathies to master Forchenault and mistress Ameliance over the recent news, but I haven't gotten any response yet. Speaking of the Forum itself, I wondered whether they would provide assistance in the matter of stopping those "Final Days," but they refused to intervene."
"As always." - Estinien scoffed. Sharlayans appeared weak-willed and, at times, even cowardly due to their desire to stay out of conflict, but that preconception was shattered the moment Estinien met Alphinaud.
"There is another opportunity that I have explored, however. My contacts in Thavnair have told me of the ways they have been dealing with their own tower. The Satrap of Radz-At-Han has sent his alchemists to find means of overcoming the tempering. They have also requested to be introduced to someone shielded by the blessing of light, and as you might guess…I have been preparing for somewhat of a journey."
"I visited Thavnair on my way to Garlemald." - Estinien thought back to the lush jungle and fiery savannas of the isle. "Can't say I've spent much time there, but enough to get a gist of the place."
"And that's why your assistance would be invaluable there." - Krile looked up at the dragoon with hope. "Unless you have something else to do, I'd like to ask you to lend me your strength one more time."
"Well…At least this time, you did it without chasing me around and using your aetheric machinations." - Estinien shrugged and allowed himself a smile.
"I'll pay you directly from our coffers when that's all done, assuming we survive…"
"No need for that." - Estinien said eagerly. "I think me and the scions are far past the point of counting each other's debts. If Thavnair is where I'm needed, then you'll have my lance."
He saw Krile smile warmly. For the first time since their meeting, she radiated hope and relief, overshadowing the fears and despair.
"Thank you, ser Estinien."
"Thank me when we save the world." - Estinien said and looked up at the sky. The sun has fallen between the orange skyline on the horizon; its light slowly dissipated before his own eyes, consumed by the night's darkness. And when it rises again, Estinien will find himself amidst another battle.
Such was the fate of a dragoon.
…
Returning to the forsaken land of cold winds and desolate pale reaches has always been bliss for the agent of chaos.
Despite everything going in accordance with Amon's plan, he never ceased to be amazed by how quickly the fate of an entire civilization could have been turned. As the ascian looked at the demonic tower of Babil and the charred city filled by people tempered to the very core, much more reminiscent of beasts than intelligent beings…Amon couldn't help but think of how glorious this mighty civilization was just a few years ago. The rising Empire with the claim upon the entire world, the ivory standard bringing fear into all those who dared to resist. And then, defeat after defeat, loss after loss…When Fandaniel began his scheming, the nation was already on the brink of collapse; it only needed a push.
This was the goal Emet-Selch led this Empire to, eventually, though Amon imagined in his plans it would not fall until much later. It was not even hard to destroy it. The people have been so simple and easy to read that Amon predicted almost every move. The selfish desire for the throne, chaos, and upheaval, rivers of blood filling the city, until finally, they arrive at the answer…The same one Amon knew for generations, carrying it with him. How did it feel to be a lone soldier lying in a pool of your blood, coughing and screeching in agony as your comrades fall with you, powerless to stop it? Perhaps in a moment like this, one could finally come to the realization of life's futility. The same pattern, over and over again.
All but one man followed it, though even he was, in a way, predictable. The ascian found Zenos exactly where he expected, wandering amidst the city's ruins and staring at the glimmering moon above in utter silence. His gaze was absolutely empty. There was no desire, no passion, just acceptance and a sense of tediousness, of waiting for something that would never come. The reasons Fandaniel reached out to Zenos were purely practical at first. He would serve to defend him if an attack on Garlemald occurs, help him free Zodiark and then strike down the sundered primal with Amon at its core, finally setting the stage for a final act in this world's tale.
But now Amon found himself genuinely intrigued by Zenos's nature.
"My lord, I come bearing news." - He announced loudly, getting no reaction from Zenos at all. "It was only recently that the skies of Gyr Abania have been graced by a ravenous machine created in your image, bringing untold annihilation to the sundered…Would you care to hear the tale?" - Of course, he did not care, but Fandaniel enjoyed keeping up the act; perhaps in his attempts, he will find something to make Zenos feel alive. "Alas, it did not turn out quite as glorious as I expected. The weapon was destroyed along with a tower near Ala Mhigo…A setback, to be sure, but nothing we will not withstand. Still, if they choose to attack Garlemald, we better be prepared."
"Let them come and do as they please. It does not matter." - Zenos responded quietly. "He is not with them and never will be."
Zenos made Fandaniel rethink the questions he believed answered. Made him think back to his days in the Allagan Empire when he was beloved by its people, and his purpose was revered by all…All but himself. Of how he tried to find meaning in creation and invention, only to be consumed by a realization that everything will sooner or later descend into oblivion. How people around him seemed content with momentary pleasures and nothing more, how they betrayed life's true purpose if there was one at all.
And then he thought of his ascian days. How he walked along with the sundered convocation members, broken by his loneliness, for he could never connect with any of them. They were men and women stripped of their names and life, given a title belonging to another ancient being, and forced into the service of the "one true god." Yet all of them raised their hands in reverence for Zodiark and the trio of unsundered masters, as if this was their purpose from the very beginning. Amon could never accept such a fate…He understood Hermes's struggles and shared many, yet he was not him.
Zenos, on the other hand, knew his purpose. He was not influenced by rigid moral codes like most other people Amon knew and did not get his purpose from those "wiser" than him giving advice. His reasons came from within, yet they were simple and clear. He did not think of the future, of the millennia or even years to come; he lived for the moment. Yet this simplicity proved to be Zenos's weakness.
"My lord, are the memories of your nemesis the only thing that interests you?"
"Yes…All else is equal." - Zenos sighed and closed his eyes. "Equally tedious, equally disappointing. The world is a tepid bog into which we sink, too weak to thrash as the mud clings to our eyes and fills our throats till we blissfully choke." - He spoke monotonously. "And then the light came…So hot, so very hot, enough to set my soul ablaze. And it was then I knew the much will never claim me again…Until he failed to live up to expectations. Until his own fire was extinguished." - For the first time, Amon could discern some emotions in Zenos's voice, though it was for him to understand what it was. Was it grief, disgust, or plain disappointment? Even the ascian could hardly tell.
At first, Fandaniel thought to lie to Zenos about the Warrior of Light's demise. If the Hunter lived in blissful ignorance, he would go along with his plan much more willingly until Amon is gone and Zenos no longer needed. But when he approached him, the reaper already knew…So strong was the bond they forged in the battle.
Yet the plan needed to go on, and so a mutually beneficial agreement was made. Zenos would eliminate Fandaniel's greatest obstacle while the ascian would provide him with a moment of bliss in combat as pure as he could.
"I hope you haven't quite given up on your enemy; the chaos that unfolded by the weapons' grace will certainly attract his attention." - Amon reminded Zenos of their plan.
"It will not be the same; it never will. It might be similar, something that distantly resembles a moment that granted me a spark bright enough to scorch the entire star. But not the same." - Zenos shook his head with disappointment.
"Don't discard him just yet, my lord. Don't you remember what I told you? He is as much of a warrior and hero as Edwin was. In fact, he is the first Warrior of Light, the one that orchestrated the appearance of the others; he would grant you a moment to remember." - Amon tried to convince him.
"I do not care. When I fought Edwin, I did not fight a Warrior of Light or any kind of "hero". I battled an adventurer, a man who knows the pleasure in the moment swords clash, the moment that forces one to break the limits…And reminisce on it for the entirety of your life."
"Well, before you actually try it out, I suppose we will have to agree to disagree." - Amon shrugged. "But you gave me a promise."
"I remember our agreement, ascian. One chance." - Zenos stated coldly.
"That is all I ask… I'll leave you to your pondering, then." - He'd rather not push Zenos too far. Amon himself had much to think about.
The ascian strolled towards the tower, looking up its ebon spire. It rose into the skies, and so Fandaniel's eyes have been set on the great beyond of the aethereal sea. Somewhere far away…She was singing her song. The girl from his memories, Hermes's magnum opus, and his only true friend. A friend that was now consumed by the same despair Hermes felt, ready to bring judgment to this star thousands of years after their separation. Amon would give her this chance, a chance to end this misery and bring them all a peaceful nihility…Fandaniel closed his eyes. He yearned for this moment.
Yet he was forced to open them and set his gaze to the wasteland the moment he felt an aetheric disturbance. After his realization, a maniacal smile emerged on Amon's face.
The Emissary was here.