The Minstrel's Ballad: As our Hope wanes

by Angelfortruth

The road walked by the warrior of light is one of sorrow and trials, of enduring pain and despair so that hope may one day prevail. But what if, in her attempts to find an answer to the question, Hydaelyn miscalculated and the hero fell in a battle against the Angel of Truth before he fulfilled his purpose? Can someone else follow in his footsteps, or is the world fated to burn?

63. Arrival to Sharlayan

G'raha could not remember talking to anybody over the next day, not after the horrors that ensued in Limsa Lominsa. Everyone was shaken, even Emet-Selch, and so it was decided by everyone to stay in their cabins for most of the time and avoid any contact with those who have a 'history' with each other. It was not just a matter of avoiding pointless arguments, it was a responsibility for each crew member to keep themselves in check, so the dark waves would not erupt and spawn a beast on the ship. Even should the other get rid of it, the ship will likely sink due to the damage, and they could not allow this to happen.

There was nothing during these horrific days for G'raha but an endless nightmarish retread of yesterday. To think that they have not even spent a full day at Limsa Lominsa…It was horrifying. During their meeting with Rhotsatz, G'raha's disdain with what he saw around, those images remained vivid, at times even adding the gruesome details that the Exarch wasn't sure if he saw. He swore he could remember a pirate man trying to force a servant girl to pleasure himself in one of the more reclusive parts of the street, but he couldn't see them or the place distinctly enough…Did it even happen, or was his mind so tired and hyper-fixated that it began to create false memories, replacing the real ones?

The thought was unnerving enough, but as G'raha relived the massacre, again and again, the questions and doubts Hades posed loomed above him. Was this worth it? Were this chaos and destruction worth saving a few servants that managed to escape with them? Once again, his values and belief were playing a cruel trick on him. Back in Limsa, his course of action defied all logic, and he understood it, yet the voice in his mind that advocated for action far outweighed common sense. What the pirates did in this city was horrific and wrong and deserved to be stopped. And now the common sense tried to balance his doubt out, tried to convince him that he did the best he could do in this situation, that if not for this intervention, the chaos would still occur, someone would turn, sooner or later, and in the end, he did his best in saving as many as he could. Yet another voice drowned it out. The one that said but a few words.

"They are gone, and this is your fault. Wherever you go, you leave naught but scorched earth."

He didn't remember Emet-Selch saying those words, yet his voice was clear in the Exarch's head. The voice of judgment and anguish, the voice that made him see all those tormented souls who perished because of his gamble. Souls that could've been saved were he ready to sacrifice one of them in prison. He wished he could blame Emet for what happened, but the ascian was right. It did not have to come to this, and when it did, there were no other options.

Perhaps some fresh air could do him right, or so the Exarch hoped. When the night fell, he traveled to the upper deck for a respite, for what he desperately wanted to be a respite, and yet he found none. The stars shone in the abyss above him, and all the clouds had dissipated. The sea was calmer than when they left, there were but a few waves gently caressing their ship, allowing it to stay on its course and leaving nothing but an echoing sound of flowing water.

The Exarch gazed at the majestic water, trying to share this same sense of serenity as if it was possible. Those carefree waves, the horizon that reflected the stars, were as dark as the sky above them. On the edge of them, a vessel traveling towards the city of knowledge in solitude, balancing on the water. Yet the brightest light amidst this serene darkness was the light that was reflected in the water. The moon arose once again, reminding G'raha of the moment when he descended into the crater…Such abundance of darkness, so many souls crying out in defiance against the one that took place as Zodiark's heart. The weakened, pacified primal, a few hits were all it took, the power of Eden that pierced its heart and freed the souls inside it…And doomed all those outside. Even now, G'raha was paying for his mistake, paying with blood, sweat, and pain.

A few tears fell from his eyes as he silently prayed that the Forum would be receptive to their plight or that at least Emet-Selch would. Even the ascian was not completely heartless, and there was hope for compromise. Perhaps the Exarch should've been more receptive to his demands, but the thought of endangering Ryne or anyone else on the First immediately pushed him away from giving this idea any credibility or chance.

"G'raha?" - Hearing Krile's voice echo from behind immediately pulled the Exarch away from his thoughts. After he wiped his tears, he turned around to see his concerned friend stare at him with eyes filled with the purest compassion. "Are you alright? I noticed that you weren't sleeping and decided to go check up on you and see…Well, you know. If you want to be alone, then that's fine, too."

"I…" - He wanted to reassure her that everything was fine, but that lie would not be even remotely convincing. G'raha sighed and looked at Krile with tired eyes. "It's alright; you can stay."

"How are you doing after…That?" - Krile asked with care. "I've been feeling a bit better, though it's still hard to grasp…"

"I've been thinking a lot recently, as you can imagine…" - G'raha began. "But all the time, no matter which memories I choose to look upon, no matter which route I take, the conclusion is always one and the same. I failed, and this catastrophe happened because of me." - He declared with shame. "If only I listened to you or…Or Emet. If only I have been more careful in my actions, more considerate, and ready to sacrifice something for the greater victory…It wouldn't have ended like this."

"Oh, Raha…" - Krile spoke with pained sympathy. "Please, don't blame yourself. We are all doing the best we can to fight the Final Days…Although…" - She stuttered for a moment. "This was the first time I witnessed them myself and not from the tales of others. I knew it would be horrifying and monstrous, but this…I don't know if…By the gods, what am I talking about?"

"How are survivors? I didn't have it in me to speak with them yet, or to anyone, really."

"They are still in shock…Although it's getting a bit better. From what I gather, very few of them were family or close friends; the servants were brought in from all across Limsa Lominsa and near towns. For most of them, it's just a matter of seeing their city just…Gone."

"And all because I was too scared to do the right thing…How pathetic." - G'raha chuckled at himself with disappointment and a tint of anger.

"No, it's not. I appreciate you trying to do everything to save those people; I wish I had it as well…" - Krile closed her eyes, bringing her hand to her heart. "Edwin understood that no matter how much you try, sometimes you cannot save everyone…You should strive to help as much as possible, and then…Accept it and do your best, for both their sake and yours. You did exactly that, and I know that those people are grateful, genuinely."

"They know I faltered instead of sacrificing one hostage…Many more could have survived, many more. There is no need for pretense, I know what you thought of my plan, and I won't deny that you were right."

"It doesn't matter anymore. All that does is that we survived and saved some people. It could have been worse, so let's just…Not think about it, shall we?" - Krile spoke with quiet fear in her voice and was visibly distracted. Was she reliving the catastrophe? Was she seeing all of those perished and tortured people ravaging the once great city? The hurt and aching in her gaze would suggest so.

"Thank you, Krile." - G'raha said, slightly unexpectedly, even for himself. When the lalafell looked up, G'raha looked at her with a faint yet genuine smile. Her words were inspirational for him, and despite his failings, she was right that it is all in the past now. He had to learn from those mistakes and not repeat them in the future. Sulking about missed opportunities would not avail anything, not until the threat is neutralized. "I'll try my best, I promise."

"And I will too…"

"How touching…" - They heard a sleepy voice echo from the deck with the steering wheel; it didn't belong to the few sailors that looked after the ship during nighttime. G'raha witnessed a familiar silhouette of C'irena. The woman raised her hands and let out a yawn before strolling down towards the two. "Sorry, I couldn't help but overhear…Our men can be pretty quiet, so I decided to take a nap under the open sky…But your friendly talk is too interesting to miss out on."

"I assure you, it's nothing interesting." - Krile said with some annoyance; she must have remembered C'irena as someone who gave young servants to brutal pirates, and even G'raha did not have this image gone from his head.

"Don't worry, I won't distract you too much…Some people, unfortunately, have a hard time seeing me downstairs, so I usually spend time here, not that I'm complaining; the view is quite nice." - She went on a tangent, but there was something G'raha wished to say to her as well.

"Thank you, C'irena."

"Sorry?" - She seemed surprised.

"You went to the prison with me and helped me to free them despite all the dangers. It's brave of you."

"Oh, that…Please, I haven't done much compared to you. That's one of the things I wanted to say, actually." - C'irena took a deep breath. "I can't imagine me being the first one to tell you this, but you're a madman. I knew that I could expect a lot from someone who has done things as crazy as you did, but just challenging Rhotsatz's whole hierarchy like that a few hours after finding out about it…That's absolutely insane."

"Can't deny that, alas…" - G'raha nodded. "You are not the first one to tell me that."

"Well, I hope you know that it's also heroic. Probably the most heroic act I've ever seen in my life." - C'irena said with sincerity, forcing G'raha into a rather awkward situation.

"I'm sure everyone can think of examples…"

"It's resolved, that's for sure." - Krile smiled. "Setting aside the practicality…The bravery to challenge a regime like this is something only a few have." - G'raha knew Krile well and knew that she had reservations, but at this moment, she believed it best to support him, even if he Exarch did not feel it to be deserved.

"I have one question, though." - C'irena smiled playfully. "You had all the guidance and power; where exactly did you fail and get yourself into a cell?"

"I came close to freeing them all, but the pirates took a hostage and threatened his life…And so I surrendered."

"Really?" - C'irena chuckled. She looked at Krile awkwardly to see the lalafell shrug before turning back to G'raha. The Exarch realized how exactly it must have seemed to her but maintained his confidence nonetheless. "You are about the strangest person I have ever met. A heroic disaster…Or a disastrous hero, I don't know." - The woman sighed. "Thank you, truly…I never expected to get an opportunity to get away from that rock so soon, and it got a little too exciting…But it's better than staying there." - Her expression changed to one that formed a smug smile. "Also, we're you seriously blaming me for giving away the slaves when your companion is the former garlean Emperor?"

"If you didn't realize, I don't enjoy his company." - G'raha shook his head.

"You two seemed to work quite well when it comes to it; as for the arguing…I've seen couples argue more ferociously than you two. It's just…" - C'irena looked at them, noticing the hints of distaste on both G'raha's and Krile's faces; it must have been enough to end this. "Alright, alright, that was in poor taste. What I'm actually wondering…Are we actually taking him to Sharlayan? And that exiled councilor as well? Are we even going to be allowed?"

"As it is, we can't know it." - G'raha had to admit, but Krile immediately spoke up.

"I have some contacts there among the students, and they vouched for my visit. As for everyone else…We'll have to negotiate that when we are there."

"And if they turn us away?" - C'irena asked. G'raha replied next.

"We'll make sure that they won't."

"This sounds…Well-planned."

"It's best we can do at this point."

"Alright, alright, we'll wait and see, I guess…I only hope that Sharlayan isn't as 'lively' as Limsa in the last few weeks; I think we are a little too tired for that…And not to be tired, I still need to get some sleep, so see you soon." - C'irena winked before retiring to her deck, leaving G'raha and Krile in solitude. She raised good points and concerns, yet both the Exarch and the scion were well aware of them. They knew how risky this attempt would be, yet they could think of no other way.

"She has the right to it." - G'raha smiled. "Let's get a good night's sleep before we reach Sharlayan, shall we?"

Krile didn't object; it was time for both to get some well-earned rest.

…

If only his chains could be broken sooner.

There were times during their voyage when Emet-Selch attempted to break free from the enchantment. The ability to teleport once during the chaos filled the ascian with false hope, only for it to be crushed during their travels. G'raha brought back the power that chained Hades and stripped him of the ability to manipulate aether; of course, that's what he did. He was always so persistent in his desires, always so stubborn and foolish. If the chaos at Limsa was anything to go by, it got even worse. Emet wondered if the Exarch learned anything at all from this, but the ascian could not be bothered to ask.

He was sick of him. Of everyone on this ship, seeing their irritated, idiotic faces vexed Emet-Selch, and it was no doubt the same for them. Krile and especially Fourchenault would thank G'raha if he let Emet go; this would rid them of a major headache. But of course, this was not going to happen, not before Emet concedes the only power he had over G'raha. Their conundrum continued as the world had less time left to it with every scorched town, with every fragment of the sky that turned crimson.

It was relieving to see the sun rise up and send its rays into the sea. This morning sent some mist on their path, but it was light enough to witness azure skies. Emet hasn't talked to anyone ever since they set out; a part of him that was not completely drained by G'raha's antics anticipated their arrival to the Old Sharlayan. Hopefully, a nation G'raha knew so well would not tilt him so much as to lose any trace of common sense in his deranged altruistic pursuits.

All that was left was to enjoy the rising sun and lament the last few days before it inevitably turned crimson.

"Master Solus…" - He heard a quiet voice behind himself.

"What?" - The ascian sighed and turned around to see Arielle. The girl looked at him with caution, and his disappointed gaze made her take a step back. "Should you not be asleep now?"

"We're all waking up; the captain says we are almost there."

"Great, so another chapter of this idiotic journey begins…Can't say I am too excited, but it's better than the boredom of staying on this ship." - Emet sighed.

"You have been to Sharlayan, right?"

"And why are you asking?"

"Well, I just wanted to know more about it…There are many stories about it in Eorzea, but I've never been there."

"Few Eorzeans have."

"How do they treat their people? Do they imprison them at all?"

"Not exactly, no. They are hostile to outsiders, but when it comes to their own…Why are you even asking me this? Don't you think those who lived there for years will have better knowledge on the matter?" - The ascian still couldn't quite piece together hr reasons for approaching him.

"I'm not sure…I served Rhotsatz and didn't want them to act; I don't know if…"

"If they had any problems with that, they wouldn't have taken you. Put it this way…I killed people, thousands if not millions. I helped in unmaking whole worlds and even kingdoms, I murdered the best friends of the Crystal Exarch, and still, that fool needs me around. Does that give enough of a picture?" - He saw the girl recoil and stutter before speaking once again. Emet sighed and softened his tone. "To answer your question, it won't be as bad as with Rhotsatz. Not nearly as much." - Finally, he could see her sigh in relief.

"Everyone, to the upper deck! We're here!"

Emet and Arielle looked at the horizon where the mist ended and saw a majestic image emerge before them. A city at the shore, the seat of knowledge and exploration kept guarded by those of the Forum. A place covered in white stone with a statue of Thaliak rising above, endlessly pouring water into The sea. A nation far removed from the conflict and strife of the mainland, always reluctant to take part in wars and disputes, maintaining their well-known neutrality. A place that immediately evoked some less-than-welcome memories in the ascian's mind.

"It's…It's beautiful." - Arielle smiled and pointed at Sharlayan in awe. How novel must it look like for eyes such as young as hers, someone who knew very little of the world…

"Enjoy it before the bureaucrats and snobs that run the place ruin it for you…" - Emet said quietly, but at this point, the girl rushed to the crowd that gathered around the upper deck. Many refugees beamed with delight upon seeing this city, one they considered their salvation. Emet's 'friends' were there as well, though their faces were far less impressed.

"Wo-hoo!" - C'irena exclaimed with joy as she rushed to the bow of the ship to feel the morning breeze dancing on her skin and to see the glorious city ahead of them. "Full speed ahead, Sharlayan's waiting! This is far prettier than that pirate hive could allow for itself!"

Emet strolled towards the crowd, closely watching the expressions on the faces of G'raha, Krile, and Fourchenault. The lalafell was unable to hide worry on her face as the city of knowledge loomed ahead, and the same could be said about Fourchenault.

"Home once again…" - He sighed, abruptly ending this display when he saw Emet approach.

"Wasn't a very long exile for you. I wonder how the Forum would react to you breaking their order so quickly." - The ascian crossed his hands.

"With you at our side, I will be the least of their concerns…At least one positive to come from you."

"That and saving your lives back at Limsa, but I suppose the latter is hardly important." - The ascian shrugged before looking at the Exarch. G'raha was mesmerized by this city; his emotions were in turmoil once again as he forced a smile through all the pain he felt now.

"How many years has it been…" - He said, garnering Krile's attention. "When I left the city to explore Eorzea and the remnants of Allag, I could not imagine how much would happen since that day. Hundreds of years, both asleep and awake, so much knowledge unearthed, so many lives saved, even more lost…How much simpler was it back then? When were we but students eager to learn for the sake of learning? When finding out more about our world was a pleasure, not a curse.

"Is this not a moment to rejoice, then?" - Krile smiled. "You're finally home."

"Perhaps…" - G'raha was in doubt, and Emet decided not to miss the opportunity.

"Not to ruin your moment, but you come from another world. While it does look similar, perhaps even identical, you have never been to this particular city, so drop your nostalgia and focus on the words you'll pour in their ears, so those fools let us in."

"You…" - Fourchenault clenched his fist. "G'raha, do you have any power to seal his mouth or paralyze his tongue?"

"Oh would you look at that…" - Emet smiled. "I wasn't even talking about you, and still, you get offended. How hard is it to maintain any sense of authenticity in a company like this? I'm merely stating facts, unbiased and plain, is that not what Sharlayans pride themselves for? Not to mention that not having any attachments to the city will help G'raha get over its destruction."

"Destruction?"

"If Limsa Lominsa is any indication, this city will survive slightly less than a day with our presence in here."

"Don't pay him any mind." - G'raha advised Fourchenault. "We managed to spend time here without needless conversation, so why not continue the trend?"

Soon, their ship docked, and the travelers were welcome to step ashore and speak their case to the receptionist. Emet already imagined seeing that foolish lalafell's eyes once again.

"So…" - Krile looked at her companions. "I suppose the four of us should go. If we try to hide the presence of either master Leveilleur or the ascian, they will no doubt expel us when they find out."

G'raha nodded and looked at Hades and Fourchenault.

"I trust you will support our case. We're here to help fight the end of days and give the survivors a new home." - He spoke, and Fourchenault answered.

"I assume the Forum will have a lot of questions for me and this monster, one way or another."

"You can answer them as they go in; no need to lie." - As G'raha said those words, Emet let out a chuckle.

"Just do not mention the reason Final Days came to Limsa. That would be a little awkward." - The ascian said without getting a response for G'raha.

The path to the land was laid, and it was time for them to go. The Exarch led their part, followed by Krile and Emet, along with Fourchenault staying behind. The elezen still looked at Emet with seething rage from time to time; those gazes became so familiar to the ascian that he was hardly impressed by them anymore.

The quartet found themselves near the desk with a lone lalafell woman burying her eyes in one of the books she held close to her eyes, not noticing her visitors straight away. The fact that she stayed on the job was commendable. Emet imagined some would immediately backtrack after nearly losing their lives during the last incident.

"Greetings." - Krile sighed and announced themselves. The lalafell took her application out; at least some preparation was done. Emet only had to watch and wait for this situation to go down in absolute flames. "I am Krile Baldesion, and I wish to enter the city as soon as possible with my associates."

"Ah, I remember…" - The receptionist said while still not looking away from her notes. "I was told about your planned arrival. You are being expected, Ms. Baldesion. Now, let me process your application so you can…" - The receptionist raised her eyes, and after seeing the company Krile kept, immediately dropped her book and recoiled. Her eyes froze in a stare as she looked over the three men that stood behind Krile. They were true quite a company. The ascian wasn't envying the lalafell; not only did she have to witness her tormentor, but she was also put in a complicated situation. She couldn't accept them, but she couldn't deny them either. "Guards, guards!" - She was about to jump from her place and shout even louder, but Krile interrupted her.

"My apologies…" - Krile said, trying to calm the clerk down. "I understand this seems preposterous, but please allow us to lay down our case."

"Excuse me, but how can you possibly…" - She stuttered and looked at Emet. "What is he doing with you?! That is Solus zos Galvus, the monster that intruded on Sharlayan and forced us to work with him under the threat of…The threat of death! He killed some guards from what I've been told; how…" - Emet could only smile at such flattering descriptions.

"I didn't kill you, did I? You seem lively enough to blabber about your painful memories." - Emet felt Krile's ashamed gaze at him, but eventually, she had to turn back at the receptionist.

"He is our prisoner, completely stripped of any power and kept here for the single reason of consulting us on the cataclysm that emerged recently."

"As if that is any reason to let him in…And is that master Fourchenault Leveilleur?" - She sounded even more shocked, barely able to piece her words together. "I was told…That you were in Sharlayan custody, you were on trial with the Forum!" - She clenched her head in what could only be described as a panic. "This makes no sense; I don't understand…"

After those words, G'raha stepped forward, looking at the lone lalafell with kindness and sympathy, yet even stronger than those feelings were his determination and resolve.

"No need to fear; we are not going to harm you or anyone else in the city, that much I swear. But we also come here with a case of utmost importance, and that is stopping the Final Days. The Forum does not deny the slaughter that happened in Ul'Dah and that those occurrences also happened afterward in smaller towns, am I correct?"

"I suppose so…"

"Then let me tell you about us. I am G'raha Tia, I came here from another world, yet in that world, I was an archon and a scholar of Sharlayan myself. Solus zos Galvus is chained by the spells that give me full control over the extent of power he can use, and in this city, he will use none. His knowledge…" - G'raha clenched his teeth and looked at Emet; the ascian was swelling with pride at the realization that he didn't give him any knowledge yet. "Is invaluable as someone who lived through the first Final Days in a time beyond our own. As for master Fourchenault, we encountered him in Limsa Lominsa, where we stopped on our way here." - G'raha's tune changed to a less confident one; dread and disappointment filled his voice. "And we come as the bearers of tragic news. The Final Days have come to Vylbrand. The city of Limsa is decimated by the beasts, and there are but a few survivors…All of which are on our ship."

"Not only do you want me to allow a monster this city, but a group of refugees as well?"

"They have nowhere to go. Whether they will stay here or move to Eorzea is another matter entirely, all I ask for is an allowance. Krile and I will make sure to find a place for them. Many are traumatized by both the cataclysm and certain changes within Limsa which occurred shortly beforehand."

"They can stay in Baldesion Annex." - Krile said. "There should be enough places for most of them, and if not, I will make sure to find another location."

"But we also wish to begin a dialogue with the Forum." - G'raha continued. "Sharlayan is a place of knowledge that adheres to neutrality, that much I understand. But what happens now is not a question of intervention. You cannot maintain neutrality when the conflict is between mankind and the fabric of our reality, and I know that those in the Forum are wise and understand this. We have reasons to believe that they have knowledge about the End of Days, but that is a discussion to have with them…To sum it up, we have inquiries, but we will not cause any disturbance. And even if you do not do it for us, I pray you to do it for the people who lost their homes."

"I…" - The lalafell looked down. "My duty is to process applications. I don't have any authority over such decisions. I would not risk simply turning you away, however…All I can do is relay your case as you've laid it out to the Forum, and then the members who have time to respond will deal with you personally."

"We would be grateful." - G'raha said with relief. The lalafell nodded and took an empty note, beginning to scribble. From what Emet understood, those were aetherically connected to the parchments some Forum Members retained, a network made specifically for such cases. Meanwhile, the guests had to step aside so as to not disturb the lalafell.

"Well, that went better than it could have…" - Krile sighed, but Fourchenault didn't seem so pleased.

"She cannot make decisions, and those in the Forum are another matter entirely. There are some who are on my side, but many would consider my presence here to be blasphemy in itself…Most of those were my closest associates back in the day." - He spoke with shame, giving Emet yet another reason to point at their failings.

"The staunch believers in the policy of isolationism, I take it? The loyalists of Sharlayan, who care for their idea more than they do for the people, they would quickly turn on anyone who stepped out of line. You had to learn the way, I suppose…Still better than throwing oneself into the heart of danger for some purposeless cause like the other members of your family did, I concede."

"You dare mock them?" - Fourchenault raised his fist only to be stopped by Emet's fist. G'raha was about to cast a spell, but the ascian pushed the elezen to the floor with what little strength he could still utilize in his chains.

"I am simply speaking the obvious truth. They decided to fight for a cause that was not theirs to take, and they died for it, same with your father. They have their merits, either; the boldness and determination they possessed is something you will need if you wish to change the Forum's disposition." - Emet spoke calmly, only fueling Fourchenault's anger.

"You do not deserve to speak of them, monster…They gave themselves to save countless lives, the lives you sought to destroy. I may have never agreed with them, might have always argued that it would be better to stay, but I knew they were heroes at heart…" - A tear fell from Fourchenault's eyes. "If there was but a single opportunity to speak with my father and children, all I would say…It is that I am proud. I'm proud even though I may have rarely shown it, proud despite my constant criticisms and ignorance…And for that, I am sorry. I know such feelings are alien to you, ascian, and that you do not care for understanding them, but I want you to know…To feel it as much as you possibly can."

"You do not know me."

"I know enough!"

Before they could continue, G'raha stood between them.

"Don't waste your time if you don't want to tarnish our image. There is a matter far more important that needs to be addressed. For the benefit of us all." - He said commandingly, making Fourchenault back down. The ascian saw no purpose in continuing to argue with him anyway.

"Very well…I guess I'll let you have a moment of peace." - Emet said angrily and moved aside, giving the trio and himself some much-needed space.

Fourchenault's spite did not hurt Hades, though it made him think of something. If he had this opportunity to speak with someone for the last time before never seeing them again, who would he talk to? The answer was obvious, but imagining oneself standing before Apollo, Hythlodaeus and Themis forced him at a loss. There was so much he wished to apologize for, how he cursed Azem as he left their city, how he didn't help Elidibus at the time when his life was at stake, how he promised Hythlodaeus that he would bring him and others back no matter the cost and then immediately failed at the task. How everything he promised to these people, his world, was undone by hubris and the belief that he could reclaim the perfection of the past without suffering the pain of the present. It ended up dooming them all…

Surprisingly enough, they did not have to wait long. The tall elezen man in the white forum robes emerged near the gate, strolling towards the docks and eyeing everyone in their group the moment he could look at them. Surprisingly enough, Emet did not see disdain or shock on his face but an expression akin to a cautious smile.

"Master Montichaigne." - The lalafell greeted him as the councilor walked through the gates. "I assume you are here to talk with our visitors?"

"Aye, I am. Thank you for notifying us as soon as possible; I decided to take this matter into my own hands. Most of the others would refuse, and those who wouldn't would not look favorably upon our guests here."

The quartet got closer to Montichaigne, eager to listen to his thoughts on the matter. Perhaps they got one of the more tolerable councilors, the one that wouldn't turn them away outright.

"Greetings, I'm glad to see you again, Montichaigne." - Krile welcomed him with a smile.

"Likewise, Krile. So you've finally decided to return to us, but not without bringing guests…I read the report, and I know who they are." - Montichaigne looked at Emet with some suspicion. "I trust the ascian is under your control?"

"Most certainly." - G'raha replied with confidence.

"Very well, I will take your word for it." - Montichaigne admitted. "Were it otherwise, I can't imagine he would be standing here with you."

"Oh, you are right on that." - Emet chimed in. "Those fools can drive anyone insane, especially those with any semblance of common sense."

Montichaigne did not respond, allowing himself nothing more than a small chuckle.

"He knows." - Fourchenault said gravely, but the elder elezen did not seem to fear for it.

"And I will not tell a single word unless G'raha gives in to my demands." - The ascian stated coldly. Fourchenault continued to speak with his peer.

"I wish I could keep the promise up for longer…But I never went past La Noscea, and at that point, there was nowhere else to go but back." - He said with shame.

"Don't think too much of it, my friend. What's done is done, and besides…That news is enough to call an emergency meeting among the Forum even without your visit…The time nears. But alas, for now, we have to focus on helping the people most in need, the refugees you brought from Limsa." - This motion sparked hope in G'raha's eyes.

"Then do you accept our proposal?" - The Exarch beamed with newfound hope, just as Krile was.

"Allow me to explain." - Montichaigne began. "I give you my blessing among those in the Forum that agree on this matter and Krile's acquaintances at the annex. This, combined with the plea of Lominsan survivors, is enough to allow you into the city. However, whether you stay for long will be another matter to discuss at the next of our meetings. The Forum will wish to have a word with all of you, and once the preparations are complete, you shall be summoned to talk. There, you will speak your mind, and we will speak ours and decide the course for each of you individually. Until then, the Baldesion annex will be watched closely by our elite guard, and so will your actions within the city. Will this be a fitting compromise?"

"Yes, it would." - G'raha nodded. "Thank you, master Montichaigne. All of those people are forever in your debt."

"Remember, I am not making this decision lightly, and our circumstances not as…Grave as they are now, this would not be allowed. The only one the Forum can trust without discussing it is Krile, and she would be responsible for looking after refugees. As for others, the guards will have the right to detain you for the slightest attempt to sow trouble." - Montichaigne looked at Fourchenault with sympathy. "That includes you, my friend; I'm sorry."

"I understand…" - The man looked down in an attempt to hide his shame. Emet looked at G'raha and spoke in a mocking tone.

"Hear that? Try to not trip off the exact same stone as last time, will you?"

"I am not here to spark trouble; none of us are." - G'raha shook his head with confidence while still looking at Montichaigne. "Solus might, but I'll keep him in line."

"Then that's on you." - Montichaigne sighed. "I hope I am not making a mistake by vouching for you."

"Does this mean I can tell the survivors that they can come to the annex?" - Krile wondered.

"Yes, indeed. They are your responsibility, but the gates of our city are open to you for now. On another note…" - He looked at G'raha and Fourchenault. "I informed mistress Ameliance of your return, and she requested to see you as soon as possible."

"Of course, I will not delay our reunion. Is she doing alright?"

"She did a great job of maintaining the manor, I can tell you that. She also said that she wished to speak with the time traveler. As someone who was there with her children in the last months of their life…She would hear the details of their journey."

"Very well…" - G'raha said as Fourchenault looked at him with a hopeful gaze.

"Let us waste no time, then. Thank you for allowing the opportunity, Montichaigne."

"It was the least I could do."

The ascian could only sigh as he heard their agreement; they were more charitable than he expected, perhaps because soon there would be little point in hiding their plan of bringing people of the Source to the moon. The ascian wondered what G'raha would think if he knew the truth, a curious thought that almost made the ascian consider telling him the truth before burying that possibility. He will have to learn himself. For now, they might have been welcomed, but the ascian knew that this was but a prolongation; there were many among the Forum who would despise the thought of having guests like them walk freely.

"Emet, let's go back to the ship." - Krile said commandingly. "I'll need your help with carrying some of our supplies for refugees.

"And so humiliation continues…"

Yet the ascian could feel it was almost over.

...

When G'raha witnessed the city of Sharlayan emerge before the mists, the memories of his first arrival flooded him. How he had to leave his tribe to escape the garlean Empire's conquest and was taken to Sharlayan. Back then, he looked at the city with the wide eyes of a child who finally left his reclusive tribe and bore witness to civilization. Just like C'irena or Arielle, the majestic atmosphere and aura of this city impressed G'raha to his core, and soon this place became his home for the years to come. A place of knowledge and enlightenment, a paradise on earth. Ironic how it was Emet-Selch's conquest that brought G'raha to this city, thus being the first step in his long journey.

It did not change from the outset, the arcs made of white stone still rose above the city, and its people were enjoying their life to the fullest extent. They laughed, spent time together, and learned. Every day they learned something new, some small truth about this world that enhanced their knowledge. Yet today, the time for learning the secrets of the world beyond Sharlayan passed, and the moment was at hand to learn the truth about the Forum's intentions and plans. The fact of their knowledge was all but confirmed with the hints passed on by both Emet and Fourchenault. It was time for those people to realize the truth of the horror that would soon arrive at their door. The Forum must have hidden the extent of the chaos that occurred in other parts of the world, but they would know sooner or later. As they looked at the Exarch, noticing his crystal hand and spread a myriad of whispers between themselves, the Exarch knew that the time of peace was over. All he could do was to ensure that they were prepared.

"How does it feel?" - Fourchenault asked as the two made their way to the Leveilleur Manor. "You have not been here in hundreds of years, have you not?"

"It is…Complicated." - G'raha admitted while looking around the peaceful land and scholarly people around. The air of familiarity and joy felled his heart as he could finally release a portion of tension and worry that had built up inside him ever since striking down Zodiark. Yet every time he looked around, he saw Sharlayans drinking tea and discussing their recently-read books, a man and a woman holding hands together in the alley, taking joy in their moment of solitude, and people eagerly trading in the markets. A few children pointed hands at him, whispering something in pure awe, something about his crystal hand and staff. They were all so happy, so joyous…As if nothing horrific was happening at all in the world. The Exarch was the same once, but after going through so much, seeing people enjoy their life seemed almost alien. "I am happy to be home, have no doubt…I always have to remind myself that it wasn't even a year that passed in this world since my reflection's slumber and that not much could've changed…But I can't truly feel the joy. Not after what we have seen." - There was also the question of this world's G'raha. Krile and others except Emet did not quite grasp the concept, but at every point, the Exarch wondered if he stole those opportunities, those reunions and returns from someone else…After all, the ascian spoke the truth. He had never visited this city. "And what of you, master Fourchenault?"

"My exile has hardly been long, as you know, but still…It's good to be back. I spent some days in custody before being sent to Limsa Lominsa, but even before that, I could hardly enjoy the city I loved anymore…Ever since I heard the news, it has been a horrific experience. Being allowed back in by Montichaighe is a welcome respite…But it hardly makes it better." - Fourchenault's tone became a grin, and his eyes looked at the Exarch with judgment and resolve. "I understand that you have done a lot for my children, and for that, I will be honest with you. You may believe there are benefits to keeping Emet-Selch around…But all I see is an opportunity to bring the man to justice, an opportunity you are avoiding for reasons which I cannot understand. He murdered your friends, too, after all." - Fourchenault spoke with a determined voice tainted by his hatred of Emet-Selch. G'raha would never argue with a grieving father on what he should accept or not; this disdain was well deserved. Yet, in his duty, G'raha had to put the salvation of their world above any personal wounds people had.

"I beg of you to understand that I'm keeping him around because of sheer necessity; you know it better than anybody else. He peered into the aethereal sea and met Hydaelyn. He knows something important, perhaps even more than the Forum. After all, from my understanding, the heart of Hydaelyn was also someone of his ancient kind; who knows what was it they discussed between each other?"

"Nothing, I imagine. He probably tried to kill her at the first opportunity and failed."

"I am not quite convinced…" - G'raha sighed, watching Fourchenault's surprise.

"Pardon?"

"Emet is a monster, but he is not someone who does not give any chances or refuses the opportunity to learn the truth. From what I know of the ancients, they were never the ones to shy away from discourse and debate, and in some, albeit twisted form, it transferred even to today."

"Listen to yourself…" - Fourchenault spoke with disappointment. "Are you truly going to defend him?"

"I am not. I am merely trying to keep all of our opportunities open."

"All this is to me is drivel in an attempt to shelter a monster like Solus." - Fourchenault didn't sound convinced in the slightest, even as they approached the Leveilleur manor atop the green hill in the eastern side of the city, the elezen continued to doubt G'raha. "Mark my words, Exarch…I will not stand aside and let him walk in our city freely. I will not."

"Duly noted…" - This wasn't a conversation G'raha wished to have now. Fourchenault was justified in his disdain for Emet, but the Exarch believed that his reasons for keeping him on a short leash made sense as well.

"You've seen what he did in Limsa…He can do it again here. I hope you understand how dangerous of a game you're playing, G'raha." - Fourchenault said ominously as they walked up the stairs and approached the door. The elezen looked away from the Exarch, having his expression immediately switch to a one of relief and anticipation.

"Should we just come in?" - G'raha wondered.

"I was expecting a manservant to meet us. Usually, we have more than enough, but it is still my home, after all, so yes." - Fourchenault sighed and looked upon the door, hesitating slightly before opening it. "When I said goodbye to her…I believed that the circumstances of our reunion would be different. That it will be by the time all is over…And we would have naught to fear."

"She will be happy to see you any time, I'm sure of that." - G'raha's reassurance helped ease Fourchenault.

"Of course…You are right."

The door was opened, and G'raha immediately found himself amidst a white hall decorated with multi-colored carpets and exotic plants standing near the entrances, while the walls and gates were full of mosaic and drawings in the blue and white colors, the same as the Sharlayan flag. Everything seemed impeccable, a perfect place for a nobleman to live. It would truly take someone extraordinary to forsake this life for the much simpler one Alphinaud And Alisaie had at the Rising Stones. The Exarch was once again reminded of how extraordinary those young souls were.

And apart from them, there was but one person inside. A white-haired elezen woman on the upper floor, tending to one of the flowers. Soon after the door closed, she turned around and saw her guests. This must have been Ameliance Leveilleur. The moment she witnessed her husband, a bright smile emerged on her face.

"I'm home, my dear." - He said, relieved and joyous for the first time since G'raha met him in Rhotsatz's cell.

"Fourchenault!" - She exclaimed happily and rushed towards him. Before G'raha could even react, husband and wife found themselves embracing in a loving hug. "Twelve be praised…"

"I know I've come much earlier than expected, but alas…Not all twists of fate have to be misfortunate." - Fourchenault smiled, and stroke Ameliance's hair as their eyes met. She looked at him with both sorrow and joy, and at this moment, G'raha doubted himself once again. They were loving parents who deserved none of the nightmares that were happening to them. They do not deserve to see the face of the monster who slaughtered their children smirk at them and mock them for their pain and grief. And all of this will continue to happen because of G'raha's plan.

"Montichaigne told me a little of what happened in Limsa; I'm sorry for sending you there…We did not know how monstrous it became."

"No need for apologies. I might have been safer had I been more careful with my words in there."

"Either way, I'm glad to see you safe…" - Ameliance looked at G'raha with interest. "Ah, and is this the fabled time traveler everyone talks about? G'raha Tia, right?"

"Indeed." - G'raha smiled as they shook hands. "It is a pleasure and a great honor to meet you both."

"The honor is ours." - Ameliance reassured him. "But let's not discuss the news at the door, shall we? Come along; I've prepared some tea for all of us." - She beckoned for them to go into the dining hall, an offer that G'raha and Fourchenault wouldn't refuse. Even a few moments away from the memories of destruction and chaos, away from the fear for the future, away from Emet would be a wonderful reprieve for G'raha.

"Ameliance, I noticed that there are no servants here at all. Where are they?" - Fourchenault asked, and Ameliance only shook her head lightly while not looking at him and continuing to guide her guests.

"Most of them moved to other houses or resigned outright…" - She sighed with pain.

"Why?"

"I can only guess…One of them said that she couldn't take it anymore. Couldn't look at me after the news." - Her voice grew quiet and tormented. For a swift moment that G'raha could witness her brown eyes, he saw a few tears forming in them.

"Those…Bastards. We were doing everything to accommodate them, and that is how they repay?" - Fourchenault clenched his teeth.

"I don't blame them. It's not their loss, and if seeing me like this…Was too much for them, and I don't want this pain to become theirs as well. It was a bit more difficult to deal with the manor all by myself, but I am getting used to it." - Ameliance changed her tone to a lighthearted one, yet there were still occasional pauses and moments of quiet in her voice. It wasn't something that came easily to her.

"If they want to abandon us, let them do it. All I know is that you will not be alone in here, for I don't intend to waste an opportunity that Montichaigne provided." - Fourchenault resolved shortly before they entered the dining hall, a room just as grand and impressive as the parade hall. The blue and sea-green colors of Sharlayan made G'raha feel the peace and calm that he associated with them, and the table already had three cups waiting for them. It was, however, much bigger and wider than for three people; it could house a dozen. The Exarch imagined those sweet and carefree days when the whole family was here. Alphinaud, Alisaie, Loisouix, all of their servants even. Whatever he imagined, it must have been for worse for Fourchenault and Ameliance, as these days must have still been fresh in their minds.

They sat down, and Ameliance was swift to pour her husband and G'raha some tea. The warm scenery reminded G'raha of his past, this was a tea made from native flora of the Northern Empty, and it was a common drink among his friends.

"So, now that we are all a little more relaxed…" - Ameliance looked over them after taking a sip. "What exactly happened in Limsa Lominsa? I heard rumors about their new leader, but nothing quite as severe." - She wondered, and Fourchenault began talking.

"It was a surprise for all of us. When I came to Limsa Lominsa, I saw a city ruled by pirates and brutes that keep those that are physically weaker in cells and ships where they are supposed to oblige every whim of stronger pirates."

"So quickly after Merlwyb's fall…" - Ameliance sighed, though she did not sound surprised.

"Their leader, Rhotsatz Mistweaver, was the instigator. He believed that by keeping the strong happy, they can avoid transformations, and when someone weaker is on the brink, they can simply kill them…I disagreed and tried to argue, the fool…He decided that letting a rebellious Sharlayan go was hardly a wise move. And so I was brought into a cell until Krile, G'raha…And the ascian came. G'raha tried to release the prisoners, but they caught him and put him in a cell as well. They planned to execute Krile, but the ascian decided that this city needs some chaos…" - Fourchenault's voice dribbled with rage as he mentioned Emet. "We…Ran away from the city as it burned and its denizens devoured. G'raha saved as many as he could, but those are from everyone."

"How was it? The End of Days, I mean."

"Horrifying…No words can describe it. That city was ravaged by mindless, merciless beasts who would give none a chance. The people turned into them, one after another…It's not like anything I have seen before."

"Then…Let's just enjoy that you returned safely from there." - Ameliance smiled faintly and turned towards G'raha with intrigue in her eyes. "You are very quiet, even when you have many stories to tell."

"Oh, I didn't want to interrupt your husband; I'm sure you have a lot to say to each other just as well." - G'raha immediately joined in.

"Well, we can always find something to talk about with Fourchenault, but I wanted to hear something from you…I know the report that the alliance forces sent to each of their cities. It reaches us as well."

"Montichaigne told us why you wanted to see us, my lady." - G'raha said quietly.

"Then tell me a bit more. Tell me about my children; tell me who they were in this distant world of yours. I would hear as much as possible, even if those are small fragments." - Ameliance sounded eager, yet her voice grew more pained with every word. The Exarch doubted that her hearing the tales would do anything to ease her suffering, but it wasn't for him to deny her request.

"Well…" - G'raha took a deep breath. "I shall begin by apologizing, though I understand that no words can undo the mistake that I made."

"Apologize?"

"Yes, for it was my actions that brought Alphinaud and Alisaie into the distant shard of the First. I attempted to bring the Warrior of Light with my summoning spell, yet his closest friends fell to it first. From there on, they have awakened in a world on the brink, but all I can say…They were the bravest young souls I ever met in my life." - G'raha smiled, remembering how readily they took up arms to fight for the world that was alien to them. "They swore to protect people of the first and do everything in their power to prevent the umbral calamity from devastating both of those worlds. The world at the time was not a pleasant sight, and it was their hands that played a role in changing to the bright and lively world it was on the day I left. Alphinaud opened the eyes of the people that were tricked by a monstrous overlord; he paved a new future for them. Alisaie was there to help those who were on the brink of transformation into sin-eaters, creatures made out of primordial light. To ease their suffering and give them a chance…She always fought, and so did her brother." - A tear fell from the Exarch's eyes. With all the chaos that unraveled in this world, he rarely got an opportunity to remember the scions as they were. Without the inspiration they gave him, G'raha would have never come as far.

"I…" - Ameliance tried to speak, but her voice broke into a whisper. "I knew that they wouldn't falter."

"And rest assured, their friends were always there to support them."

"And how…How did they…" - The Exarch knew the question Ameliance wished to ask, but Fourchenault spoke first.

"Please, there is no need for…"

"I want to know." - The elezen woman spoke, regaining her resolve. The Exarch braced himself and finally spoke.

"They…We battled Emet-Selch, the ascian. They fought bravely against one with powers beyond mortal limits, and all of them did. When Alphinaud was wounded, it was his sister that protected him from a lethal blow…But it came at a cost." - G'raha paused as he watched Ameliance look away for a moment. Once again, tears began to form in her eyes the moment she looked back. "I'm sorry."

"It's…Alright. Please…Continue." - Ameliance begged before wiping the tears.

"Alphinaud lashed out…He put all of his might into destroying the ascian and avenging Alisaie. It wasn't enough, but he did not falter. We buried them when I returned…Pray to forgive me; both of you deserved to be there, but I promise, they were sent unto the journey by their close friends who gave them the eulogies they deserved." - G'raha spoke and saw Ameliance's tears falling down her cheeks. She couldn't smile anymore, couldn't talk. She just looked away and breathed. Fourchenault got up from his chair and walked towards his wife, hugging her once again. His lips gently touched her forehead as the man wiped one of her tears. After looking into her eyes with kindness and shared agony, Ameliance forced herself to speak.

"Thank you…Both of you. I now know that our children died like they lived, heroically and without fear…Like you father, Fourchenault."

"They always were inspired by his heroics." - Forchenault looked away for a moment as his own eyes grew moist. "Whether this was the right choice or not matters little now. They made it, and we must have respected it…I must have respected it until it became too late."

"They would understand you." - Ameliance forced herself to smile. "They knew you cared for them, and they did not hold it against you…" - She turned back to G'raha. "I have but one last thing to ask. I know who you brought here…Why? Why does that…That monster get an opportunity to walk freely in our city?"

"He isn't free…" - G'raha began, although he knew that this would never be enough. "I need his knowledge to fight the end of days. I told Fourchenault as much."

"And can this knowledge be worth it?" - Ameliance spoke with distrust.

"I want to believe that it is…I wish I could know it for certain. Either way, it's better for him to be chained by my shackles rather than go free."

"Is it? I don't want to see him…" - Ameliance replied with vigor. "I don't want to hear him, to know that he walks the same ground I do…I do not want to think about him." - Once again, she was on the brink of tears, and there was nothing G'raha could say to her but reassure her that it would be worth it in the end, something he wasn't certain about himself.

"There is no need for that now." - Fourchenault reassured her. "You're right; we should not think of him, not now…The time for that will come."

"So be it…" - Ameliance sighed and took another sip while Fourchenault returned to his seat. The dreadful silence of mourning befell upon them, as all three of them were on the brink of tears.

It did not become easier with time, the pain grew only more horrifying for G'raha, eating away his body like poison, and it was much worse for their parents. Nothing would heal these scars; all they could be learn to live with this pain and not allow them to cloud their judgment in the face of the apocalypse. But before their battle resumes, G'raha would share their pain in this moment of mourning, the mourning of true heroes and friends that they lost.

A moment of never-ending pain.