Chapter 6: The Final Days
The rest of Venat's time in Elpis passed by uneventfully. Aside from a couple researchers seeking her out to ask for her version of events inside the facility, everything was as it was supposed to be. At least, to those who didn't know the full truth. By this time tomorrow, one would not even realize that there had been a state of emergency at all… though that did little to comfort Venat now.
Once again, Venat spent most of the night up and pondering her best course of action now that Meteion had escaped their grasp. Giving chase and following her would be out of the question for right now, for crossing the expanse was not a trip that just anyone could make. She supposed if one were to shed their flesh and travel with their souls…? It would be possible. But given that their destination would be a location that Meteion hadn't decided upon yet, not to mention a domain where dynamis ruled…? It was not a wise move. Meaning that she would have to focus on what could be done here upon Etheirys.
But first thing's first… she had to ensure that her young champion return home.
Claire was up with the first rays of sunlight gently kissing the landscape about them and though she still looked tired, she looked much recovered for her respite. However, they both knew that their time together would soon draw to a close. Venat didn't wish to say goodbye just yet—having grown so fond of this girl despite the short amount of time she knew her and wished she could stay longer.
She was selfish enough to insist that Claire remain long enough for some food before she returned, however, and was able to enjoy her company for a brief while longer. They passed the time discussing more details of her knowledge of the future, with Venat dedicating it all to memory, knowing that she couldn't afford to overlook anything from this point onwards.
But as they finished their food, Venat asked a question she had been dreading.
"Do you know when, exactly, the Final Days were to happen?" she asked softly.
Claire looked down and shook her head.
"I'm sorry, I honestly don't," she acknowledged. "I know that it had to be some time after Hermes joined the Convocation… but…?"
But it was impossible to say for sure.
"I see," Venat sighed, "Well, I shall take great care in doing all I can to protect this star until then."
Claire gave a shaky smile but Venat knew that she was still thinking of what she knew would come after. Would the timeline remain the same? Or did her coming onto the past change things to alternate futures?
Venat wasn't sure and she feared to find out, but she was never one to turn away from such things. She would face it head-on as she always had done.
After they finished eating, Venat took Claire out with her and they strove across Elpis, enjoying the soft breeze, the warm sunlight… and just talked. Well, she talked, Claire seemed content to just listen to her prattle on about some of the many places that remained here upon Elpis and throw around ideas of those whom she felt she could reach out and recruit to their cause.
Soon enough she came to realize that she was just postponing the inevitable, and the time for goodbye had come.
"So, how did you arrive here?" she asked at last and Claire's smile faded slightly as she quietly explained her method of travel after entering the Crystal Tower.
"You arrived here at the Propylaion? Then that stands to reason to be where you need to go to return to your own time. Very well, allow me to see you off then," Venat told her bracingly, wrapping a comforting arm around her shoulders and hugged her close to her side as they walked on, taking the long way round.
Their walk was mostly silent after that as they found the main road and ambled along it until the entrance of Elpis came into view. With a quick glance around, Venat confirmed that there was no one else around at this point—meaning that now was their perfect chance to return Claire without drawing any suspicions.
They came to the doors of the Propylaion and they broke apart as she turned to look at her.
"So… it is within," she confirmed. "The portal that brought you hither… and will take you home."
Claire nodded in agreement, but she still looked hesitant. It seemed she was not the only one who seemed reluctant for them to part.
"Perhaps I should stay and help…" she offered softly and Venat smiled sadly; knowing better. They both had their duty and had to see them through to the end.
Venat shook her head and kindly reminded her, "I appreciate your sentiment, I truly do, but 'tis a very long game that we must now play. And while you have maintained a stable presence here thus far, there are dangers in lingering overlong."
That had been something she had been worried about as well. Though Emet-Selch had been kind to give her so much aether to keep her stabilized while she was here, she feared that it may be a matter of time before her presence would break down.
This was not her world nor her time… she had to go back to where she belonged.
"No, you must return to your own battlefield," she said firmly, "Make use of the knowledge you have attained, that your days here and our friends' sacrifice be not in vain."
"But… what about you?" Claire asked in worry.
Venat looked up to the sky, the beautiful blue and cloudless sky masking the threat that was coming for them. "With Meteion free to pursue her designs, 'tis only a matter of time until the Final Days are upon us. We must be ready," she answered back grimly. "From fortifying our defenses to securing our escape, there is much to be done. In spite of this, we cannot allow the report that set this calamity in motion to become common knowledge."
She had given this a lot of thought and believed that this to be the best course. Otherwise, who knew how many people would lose the will to continue on? That would only hasten the Final Days—especially if they feared that what happened to those worlds will surely come for this one sooner or later.
"Were the masses to learn the fates of the other stars, I fear the situation would spiral out of our control," she went on. "I must carefully consider who can be trusted, and bring them into the fold."
She had no desire to go against the Convocation, but what other choice did she have? According to Claire, it was thanks to Hermes knowledge that they were able to forestall the Final Days to begin with. What if by confining in them, they weren't able to find any other way this time around?
Venat looked down and admitted, "Ordinarily, I wouldn't hesitate to call upon the Fourteen. However, it was the desire for a fair determination that drove Hermes to attempt to erase our memories; were he made aware of his actions, there is no telling whether he would remain a friend or become a foe."
Though judging from Claire's testament of the Fandaniel of the future, she feared she knew the answer.
"Alternately, we might try to alienate him from the Convocation," she went on thoughtfully, "Yet in doing so, we would deprive ourselves of a brilliant mind who would be invaluable in the crises to come. Quite the dilemma… which is why I must work independently of the Convocation."
"And then what?" Claire asked.
"Regardless of how we proceed, if we are to permanently avert the Final Days, we must be equal to Hermes's challenge. We must prove that mankind is worthy to exist. And this hinges, I think, on how we confront the all-consuming despair that accompanies a senseless and seemingly inevitable end," Venat sighed, growing weary just thinking about what a puzzle they had to figure out. "Bewildered and divided, we would perish like the peoples of those celestial ruins. We could not hope to survive the Final Days, much less take the battle to Meteion at her nest."
That was what she feared the most. Whether that be in this time or the distant future… she did not know. But she did know one thing as she shivered at the thought.
"We must find a way to defeat despair," she decided with a firm nod. "To unite and prepare as many as possible for the struggle ahead. Heavy will weigh the burden of guiding this legion of souls…" she muttered. "Yet I have faith in mankind's potential. As long as he believes in himself, there is naught he cannot achieve. So I will not give up on him. On us."
With her will resolved, she glanced back to Claire, seeing just how much they were capable of doing. That resolve, that determination that shone back in her eyes… was inspiring to say the least.
"You may find your world to be very different," she offered, "Or perhaps the erasure of our friends' memories has sown the seeds of a conjunction between us. We cannot know until the moment is at hand. So shall I strive to do my best, talking naught for granted as I walk my path." She then smiled as she requested, "And I pray you walk with me to the end. As you move forward, so too will I. as will all resolved to fight for the morrow. And when mankind as found the strength to stand against despair… we shall silence the song of oblivion. She who sings it will learn our journey is far from over. This I promise."
This promise seemed to hang in the air and suddenly a connection—a bond—seemed to form between the two of them and tied them for all eternity. This was a vow that would be many years in the making but one she believed would be fulfilled.
Claire seemed to sense this as she smiled.
"Fare you well, my light of the future," Venat told her lovingly. "Till we meet again."
Claire nodded and turned back to the doors, but before they opened… she suddenly turned and ran back into Venat's arms. Venat caught and embraced her tightly in return. How long they stood there like that, she didn't know, but she savored every moment before she knew they couldn't delay it any longer.
"You take care, my little spark," she whispered softly as she pulled away.
"Spark?" Claire repeated wonderingly as she looked up in confusion and sadness.
Venat only smiled as she brushed a few stray hairs from the younger woman's face.
"A little spark of light in the dark… a spark of new possibilities and of new beginnings," she reassured her. "Like a star in the night sky… or, I guess… a moon?"
Claire chuckled at that, turning a little red as Venat nodded back.
"We will meet again," she promised her. "And I pray that when that day comes, it will be as old friends."
Claire nodded and this time, she pulled away with that new determination as she headed towards the doors.
It was harder than Venat thought it would be to watch her little spark walk through those doors. She stood there, watching as her form slowly began to flicker and fade right before her eyes even as Claire turned back to get one last look at her. Venat didn't dare blink, for fear of missing it. Her soul was quickly fading and she forced one more smile as she watched her disappear… not knowing when they would next meet.
The doors slowly closed just as Claire faded from view completely and Venat felt a sorrow in her heart now that she was here alone. She took a deep breath, making sure to commit this dear child's face and the memories of these last couple days forever in her heart.
She meant every word that she said. She still held onto hope that they could avoid the Final Days this time around… that her efforts would be enough to encourage the people to face their despair. There was still much work that needed to be done, but she was ready to do whatever it took to ensure a future for this star and the people she loved so dearly.
But Venat would not forget this girl… this traveler from the future.
Venat remained at Elpis for another couple days as she busied herself with her plans, making a list of people she would try to contact, as well as compiled notes on everything that Claire told her and a basic timeline of all that she knew. She would have to have the concepts of the moon, the Watcher, Zodiark's prison… everything ready to go… just in case. According to Claire, the Final Days started off as small, isolated incidents but as the fear and despair grew it form a chain reaction that began to spread until it covered every corner of the star; until the sky was washed with flame and monsters were created from their own creation magicks. Venat suspected that it would be some time for Meteion to find a place to make her nest, possibly meet up with all of her sisters, before they would bring about the doom that she promised. She could still sense her tracking spell, though a great distance between them now, still moving.
They had time.
Though not a second of it to waste.
For even after Meteion had built her nest, how long would it take for her song to reach this star? Given the untold potential of dynamis, that was also difficult to say. She had hoped that the weaker aspect of dynamis being negated by aether would give them an advantage, but if there were so many Meteia out there…? It wouldn't be impossible for them their combined efforts to reach them here in this aether-shrouded star.
No, against a head-on assault, especially while she was in her nest would be next to impossible.
"Then what would work?" she asked herself, rubbing at her exhausted eyes as Argos laid his head in her lap and whimpered. She absent-mindedly petted his head as she continued working on calculations, trying to find another alternative without having to resort to the sundering.
"I don't want to just give up on this world and break it apart like that," she muttered softly. "If there was another way…? I can't believe my future self would feel that it was our only recourse…? Unless something pushed her to the breaking point…? Surely if we just…?"
She trailed off as she continued to work through that next night until the sunlight returned.
Eventually, she felt that she had done all she could accomplish here and left Elpis—vaguely wondering when she would next step foot here again… if ever. The thought made her sad, but she moved on with nothing but Argos and her knowledge of the future with her.
The moment she left, she reached out to old friends and colleagues, and carefully decided who she would be able to trust with the truth. Those few she confine in, she told them of Meteion and of what Hermes—now Fandaniel after accepting the seat of the Convocation—had done. She had no plans to mention the traveler from the future, at least not yet, but that was not necessary for them to know. Just that there was a possible threat and her reasons for not going to the Convocation at this point in time.
She soon built up a small following of those she trusted most and together they labored in secret to try to protect the star. They kept watch over all parts of this world and listened for the slightest news of any noticeable changes. And for the next couple years, things remained calm and tranquil… so much so that Venat couldn't help but notice things that she hadn't before. Such as the people and how they lived in bliss… though their world was not yet flawless… it shouldn't be too much longer before it did reach that state of perfection.
And then… what?
Perhaps… their world was becoming a bit too perfect after all.
Time went marching on, though not a second of it was easy. Venat was constantly on edge, wondering who she could confide in, and what knowledge she would be able to share without risk of the truth spreading. She spent much of her time alone, save for Argos, as she worked on trying to find another alternative. She was able to play off how anxious she was to most, save those closest to her.
"Venat? I'm growing worried for your health."
Venat turned her head as she gave a tired smile to Azem—who had recently returned from another long journey and had stopped by her home on the very borders of the city.
"Oh? What makes you wonder that?" Venat asked her kindly as she poured her some tea before joining her at the kitchen table.
"You don't… look like you've been sleeping well," Azem pointed out as she reached up and removed her own mask so that she could look at her. Venat gazed back warmly at the face she loved so dearly as she set the black mask of the Traveler aside for the moment. That was true, Venat had long since given up on ever having a good night sleep again. Her nights had grown so short that she felt that if she blinked, the sun would return and a new dawn would begin.
"I see, I'm sorry if I worry you," Venat told her causally. "A lot has happened since last we spoke and so I find my mind occupied of late."
Azem frowned a little as she swirled her tea around between her hands in an anxious way. After about a minute of awkwardness, Azem spoke up again.
"Venat, if you are struggling with something, then please let me help you," Azem offered in concern as she also lowered her hood, a sign of familiarity between friends and colleges to bare one's face to them. "Hythlodaeus said that you were working on a new project when last you spoke, but it seems to be taking over your life at this point…?"
"Does it?" Venat asked, trying to keep her voice as light as possible. "I fear I hadn't noticed."
She tried to play it off, but Azem wasn't fooled for a minute as she gave her a sharp look.
"Venat, what is it?" Azem asked, cutting straight to the heart of the matter. "You barely spend any time as an advisor these days… you've been spending so much time alone that people are starting to wonder."
She paused there for a moment before asking, "Are you… are you thinking of returning to the star?"
"Is that what they are saying?" Venat asked softly. "As tempting as it may seem at times, no… not yet. You are right in that I am working on a special project but it is not going as well as I hoped it would. I struggle to find a solution to this problem."
"Well, what is it about?" Azem asked her, brushing her long hair out of her face as she looked at her with concern. "Mayhaps you just need another's opinion…?"
"I wish that I could tell you, my dear," she sighed regretfully. She wanted to tell her the truth, she truly did… but she could not tell her beloved sun just yet. To look at her face and remember her fate, oh, how her heart broke at the reminder. Azem was her own protégée… as dear to her as a sister or even a daughter…? To think that she would be caught up and be one of those who would pay the price in her decision to tear this world apart…? She could not bear the thought of having her know the whole truth. At least, not yet.
"If you need aid, then perhaps I could…?" Azem began worriedly but Venat shook her head.
"Not right now, my dear," she told her. "Amaurot will always have need of you. You must do what you can to care for it as well as this world. You have enough burdens without me adding to them. No, perhaps you may cheer me up, however? I wish to hear more of your adventures. Mayhaps I will find inspiration in your thrilling tales. Now tell me, where did you go this time?"
Azem looked surprised at the sudden change of topic, but she soon lit up and told her excitedly how she recently visited the lands up north where it almost always was snowing. She spoke of beautiful snow-caped mountains that stretched on as far as the eye could see and how they were so tall they seemed to disappear into the sky above.
Venat only smiled as she listened, remembering how beautiful this world was and grew curious to know if the snow covered mountains were as tall in the future. She watched on as Azem's bright eyes sparkled with happiness as she told her more of these distant lands and she smiled. That energy… that delight… was exactly like how Claire reacted when she asked her to speak of her adventures as well. Azem was her pride and joy… and one day, eventually, she would be reborn as Claire… her light of the future… her future champion.
"So you will be leaving on another journey soon?" Venat asked her when she finished and took a long sip of tea.
"I've been asked to remain in Amaurot for a little while to meet with the newest member of the Convocation," she explained. "Apparently the old Fandaniel stepped down while I was away and I'm eager to meet his replacement. Hermes, I think his name was? I was told that you know him?"
"Oh, I guess better than most," Venat said mysteriously. "How is he doing?"
"I fear I haven't meant with him just yet," Azem answered. "I wanted… I wanted to see how you were faring before I returned home. I did promise Emet-Selch though to meet with him today and I fear that if I'm late again, he will give in to his deepest desire and strangle me this time."
"Oh, I think that he cares about you a great deal and it's really more to ease his own worries that you return alive and hale," Venat chuckled as she rested her chin on her folded hands. "Do give both him and Hythlodaeus my warmest regards when you see them."
"You should come as well? It might be good to get you out of the house?" Azem offered before Venat shook her head.
"No, I fear I must refused, though I appreciate the offer," Venat said. "I have a meeting with some old colleges later this evening in fact and I am curious to hear what they have to say. Though I promise that I will try to visit you while you are here."
Azem still looked concerned, but she seemed content with Venat's promise and nodded.
"Alright," she said, and she remained for a few more minutes as they caught up on any new information on what has been happening in Amaurot before she stood to leave.
Azem hugged her tightly and said, "You will come to visit while I'm here? You did promise?"
"My dear, have I ever broken a promise to you before now?" Venat asked her shrewdly and Azem laughed.
"That's the Venat I know," she teased. "Alright, well, I'm glad to see you again, but remember to take a break now and again? I think that you're pushing yourself to much again."
Venat smiled back wearily.
"Perhaps," she agreed. "I'll try my best to look after myself. In the meantime, I want you to promise me the same thing."
Azem agreed before pulling back and picking up her travelling bag and tossed it over her shoulder as she headed to the door. As Venat watched her leave, a question suddenly sprang forth from her lips, "Azem? A moment longer, if you don't mind? I have a question that I wish to ask of you."
Azem stuck her head back into the room as Venat looked over her.
"Do you…? No, never mind," she said.
"Venat," Azem warned before Venat laughed once more.
"Alright," she said. "It's just that… I am just curious. You have been through so much in your young years… and I am so proud of the person you have become."
"Please, if there is any here you should be proud of for how I turned out, it is yourself, Venat," Azem grinned. "I would never be here if you didn't agree to take in that misfit, little girl who's other teachers all but gave up on her since she couldn't sit still for longer than a few minutes."
Venat smiled at that.
"And your words mean a great deal to me," she confirmed, closing her eyes at the many fond memories she spent with both her student—and now colleague. "But what I am curious to know… Have your journeys been good? Have they been worthwhile?"
Azem looked at her in surprise.
"Venat, you really should get some sleep if you're asking questions like that," she said and Venat laughed.
"Well, of course it has been," Azem answered as if it was the most obvious answer in the world. "Up till now… I've been loving life. While I do have a lot of things I look back on and wish that I could change… I don't regret a single day of how I spent my time. This is where I belong. Just passing through, helping out… learning and growing every day. This is my happiness."
Venat gazed long and hard at her before a warm smile came over her face.
She only wondered if Claire would have said the same thing if she had been given a chance to answer?
"I don't know what you're planning but don't hesitate to call on me if you need my help," Azem told her as she took her hands in her own before she left. "I'll do whatever I can to assist you. I would sleep better at night if you did ask me."
Venat just beamed at her and cupped her face between her hands.
"My radiant sun," she smiled warmly.
*A couple years later*
Eventually, Venat felt her tracking spell remain in a certain place for quite a while; so far off that she almost couldn't track them. It seems Meteion has finally found the perfect place for her nest. With this knowledge, she tucked it away for later though the growing unease inside her only seemed to grow worse with every passing day.
And then the reports started to come in about people accidently creating new creations unconsciously from different spots of the world—usually in the form of small creations that were reported to be ugly and frightening. As soon as she heard that, Venat felt her spirits sink. It was only reported as one or two people at first and was quickly dealt with so panic wasn't spreading yet… but that soon changed. In the following weeks, things quickly escalated and soon reports were pouring in from all over of how their magicks were quickly growing out of control. It wasn't until the report of the first sightings of the sky changing did she know beyond a shadow of a doubt that the Final Days have come.
Then… the came the crushing weight of fear and despair. The sensation of loss as the entire world seemed to be burning before their eyes as screams filled the air—of wails and shrieks as people tried to flee to someplace safer though such places were quickly running out.
Soon enough, the only place that seemed safe was Amaurot—but even the changes were encroaching upon the city itself.
The Convocation was in disarray and worked tirelessly as they tried to discover the cause of these events—and more importantly, a solution to stop them. Thanks to Fandaniel's knowledge of the celestial currents, they had found a way to predict where the next attacks were to strike. They were doing all in their power to try and discover what was happening as Venat began to put her plans into action. Their greatest concern were to save as many souls as possible and to try and keep the panic from spreading. But despite their best efforts, it just continued to grow and grow beyond all control.
She knew that it would not be much longer before the Convocations would turn towards their soon-to-be plan to summon Zodiark… and in the end, she could not blame them for their desperation. Despite all that she had seen and knew, she feared that there may truly be no other way to save this star… but she bring herself to stand back and allow the summoning to take place…?
Over the next few days, she would meet with her fellows in secret, choosing to use the Anyder as their headquarters for the time being, and discuss the latest findings. The Convocation had recently declared their plans and volunteers were soon lining up for a chance to be able do what they felt was their duty to this star and offer themselves up as willing martyrs for this venture.
Soon… very soon… He would appear and she must make her decision.
The people believe that Zodiark would be a kind and benevolent god-like being who will surely bring about salvation to this star… and she believed that it would be the case… at least in the beginning. But the idea of so many sacrifices…? And even after they save this star, she knew that the people would be willing to offer up more and more sacrifices—but that was not the answer. Besides, what would shape Zodiark's nature if souls of the unwilling were offered later on? What kind of monster would He become then?
She called an emergency counsel of her comrades and explained to them of her plan, to become the heart of another god to hold Zodiark in confines until a new solution could be found.
"Thank you all for joining us at the Anyder in these most perilous of times," one of her followers said in a serious voice. "By the summoning of Zodiark have we been granted a reprieve. Yet immutable as the laws He has woven may seem, they will not serve to forestall our doom."
"Nay," another agreed. "Should we continue down this path, our fate will be the same. I said as much to the Convocation, of course, but the stubborn fools turned a deaf ear to my warnings. I had hoped that the defector, at least, would side with us, but I regret to report our overtures have gone unanswered."
Venat looked down sadly at the reminder.
They had tried to appeal to the Convocation, especially after learning the fate of young Elidibus, but their pleas fell upon deaf ears. They had hoped that Azem, who had rejected the idea of summoning Zodiark and had even left the Convocation all together, would be willing to come around to their way of thinking… but Venat wasn't surprised when she learned that she hadn't even answered them.
She had seen Azem herself not long ago when her young protégée came to her, seeking answers… answers that Venat could not give. She could not tell her the truth… could not reveal the fate that awaited for her soul.
*A Few Days Ago*
It was late at night, with clouds so thick and heavy that you couldn't even see the stars, making everything feel so much darker and colder than it was supposed to be. A dark kind of energy as well as a smell that was mixed in with decay hung in the air… as if the very ground beneath their feet was threatening to turn against them.
These days she hardly left her home as she continued working and now her workshop, which was normally set up with net rows of maps and models on top of all the tables, was now a mess. Many souvenirs and specimens that she gathered while she was still the Traveler were strewn in the corner as she needed the space for her calculations and soon countless papers were scattered haphazardly all over the counter space. Her walls were also covered with strings of writings and half calculations on the lifestream and of the power of the soul being used as a form of aether.
She was so tired that she was practically falling asleep in her chair, running her hands over her exhausted face. She was just wondering if it would be possible going to her bedroom—which she hadn't slept in for about a week now anyway—and try get some rest. But she heard a knock at her door and it snapped her out of her state.
She sluggishly rose from her seat and left her workshop for the first time in days as she headed to the door.
She was not expecting such a worn out but familiar face to be standing there.
"Azem?" Venat questioned in surprise, who wasn't even bothering with her mask and hood now. "This is an unexpected call."
"I know, and I'm sorry for bothering you so late," Azem sighed. She looked as tired as Venat felt, there was exhaustion there and her aether levels were far too low. Her aether was normally like a blazing sun… but now it was washed out and dimmed like a dying candle.
"Are you feeling well?" she asked in worry.
"I was about to ask the same thing to you," Azem pointed out to the dark circles under Venat's eyes. "Have you been sleeping at all?"
"Not really," Venat sighed, too tired to try and think of an excuse. "But what are you doing here? I was told that the Convocation was called for an emergency meeting?"
"I know, and I will be there soon enough," Azem promised. "I can't stay long. It's just that they talked about a possible way to halt this spread of contamination and I wanted to seek your counsel before I meet with them."
Venat felt dread practically pulsating through her body at Azem's tone, having a very good idea to what this meeting was to discuss.
"Of course," she said, "Come and tell me everything."
Azem heaved a sigh as she staggered over the threshold. Venat led her to the table as she went about boiling a pot of water for some tea… on second thought… she reached for some of the wine that Azem had brought her when last she visited—a gift from a village Azem saved from a volcano apparently. She felt that they would need something a little stronger tonight.
She poured a generous amount and handed the glass over to Azem, who was now looking so worn down that it was as if the weight of the world was threatening to crush her where she stood. Venat had never seen her former student in such a state before.
"So what is this about?" she asked her, hoping that she was wrong in what was happening.
Azem swirled the liquid around dully, not bothering to drink.
"Emet-Selch told me what this was about ahead of the meeting," she said after a few minutes of silence. "Apparently they have come up with a concept that could undo all this and save the star."
"Did they now?" Venat asked, shutting her eyes in grim acceptance. "Well, while I am pleased to hear such a thought, I fear that it is not as simple as you claim?"
Azem shook her head.
"Fandaniel managed to make some kind of connection between these events and the celestial currents, and concluded that something is causing the currents to decay and grow stagnate, therefore if we can find a way to cause them to flow again, we could counteract the destruction," she explained. "But Emet-Selch confined to me that there is more to it than that. This requires… a lot of aether to create such a being. Much more than we have ever used before."
Venat didn't answer as she looked at her sadly as Azem looked up.
"It would require a lot of aether… far more than us Fourteen are able to give on her own," she explained miserably. "They calculated that half of the remaining population would have to be sacrificed in order to counter it. And one of us will have to serve as Zodiark's heart. Loghrif volunteered to become the heart… but Mitron is fighting against that decision…? No one knows…? I don't… I can't…? And then there's the idea of so many souls…? Already I can see so many offering themselves up? I can't imagine… just how many…? And now even he is willing…?"
She trailed off and lowered her head as a few stray tears fell from her eyes. "Hythlodaeus, you idiot…?"
"Hythlodaeus is willing to volunteer himself if this plan is passed?" Venat asked softly.
Azem sniffled and nodded her head.
"Emet-Selch wanted me to help and convince Hythlodaeus not to go through with it," she explained. "That's why he told me all this before the meeting. But there is more to it than that… for even if we summon Zodiark and halt the Final Days… they are thinking about more sacrifices to restore the star to how it was afterwards?"
Azem ran her hand through her disheveled hair in a completely lost way as she silently began to cry. Venat immediately reached across the table and took her hand in her own.
"I don't know what to do," Azem confessed softly. "We will be gathered soon to vote on what Emet-Selch called the 'Zodiark' concept."
Venat closed her eyes for a moment as she felt tears welling up in her own eyes. They were almost out of time and so far everything is lining up as Claire warned.
"And what do you wish to do?" Venat asked her.
"I just…?" Azem began before she felt her shaking. "How could this have happened? How did it go so wrong so fast? How could they even entertain the idea of asking our people to throw their lives away? How could they just…? I can't agree to this, Venat. I just can't."
"And I would have been worried if you did agree to it," Venat confirmed gently.
Azem looked up to her with red and swollen eyes as she asked, "I know you still labor with this project of yours, Venat. And I must know. Is it… is it something to do with the Final Days?"
Venat gazed back sadly before sighing.
"Yes," she agreed.
"Can you tell me what it is about?" Azem asked slowly.
"I wish I could, my child, I wish I could," Venat said as she shook her head. "I have long struggled and searched for a means to stop the Final Days, or at the least, find a way to ensure we survive it. But at this point, I fear that time has all but run its course for us."
"So that's it? There's no hope?" Azem demanded dejectedly.
"There is always hope, Azem," Venat told her firmly. "Have I not always told you this?"
"Then what is it? Tell me what you are planning! I could help if you think you found another way around this?" Azem pleaded. "You have a plan, don't you? I can tell by looking at you that you're planning something big?"
"In a way," she nodded. "But I fear now what will come after. Even if we manage to stop the Final Days and survive it… I fear that our people have grown too comfortable with living in paradise. I fear that even if we were to return the world to what it once was… it would still meet a grisly end."
"I don't understand," Azem wailed. "What could be worse than the Final Days? How could anything be worse than the idea of summoning a concept that would require so many lives? And then more lives afterwards to terraform the star? Would we keep sacrificing lives just to get what we want only until no one is left?"
"That is what I fear," Venat frowned. "That is but one of several paths we may choose. None of which are pleasant to think about."
She remembered Meteion's words once more—her voice echoing in her mind of those countless dead worlds who strove for perfection just too ultimately perish in the end. "Even if we agreed with this plan and summon this concept to halt the Final Days, would our people be strong enough to face against this overwhelming despair? And even if they are, would we not continue on in blissful ignorance until we lose ourselves to our apathy?"
Azem stood up, immediately releasing Venat's hand.
"I came here hoping for… I don't know, a different solution or maybe just advice… not these vague answers," Azem cried out. "I am contemplating leaving the Convocation all together and came to you hoping that you would agree and come with me to find a way. But even you are entertaining such thoughts? If that is the case, then is there truly no hope for this star? I can't condone any of this."
She grabbed her travelling cloak and swung it over her shoulders once more with suppressed anger.
"I will give them my answer if they insist on this folly," she said. "And if they continue upon this course? I will leave the Convocation. I will have no part in such a summoning."
"And go where?" Venat asked her in concern as Azem shook her head.
"I don't know, but I refuse to give in just yet," she said stubbornly. "I will find another way… another answer. I don't know how, but I must at least try! There has to be something, somewhere, that we overlooked. The answers may still be out there and I'm going to search. If nothing else, I will do all I can to destroy as many monsters and save as many lives as possible in the meantime."
"Azem," Venat started as she got up, but her former student was already halfway out of the door before she paused when she heard her name. Venat felt the tears fall from her eyes and trail down her cheeks as she told her, "I am so sorry. I truly wish that there was more I could do… but there is more to it than you could possibly know."
Azem's shoulders were trembling much like how Claire's had been that day.
"No, I'm sorry for snapping at you," Azem said, not looking back. "I know that it was too much to ask that you have a solution that could undo all this. But… I hope you can understand. I must find another way. I must… keep searching, though for what, I do not know… just that I must continue on and fulfil my duty as the Shepard of the Stars. I have to at least try to find another way."
She turned back to look at her and added, "Even if it seems I will have to cast aside the title of Azem… I will never forsake the people of this star."
Venat stared at her for a long moment as she strove over to her and gently placed her hands upon Azem's cheeks, staring at her face long and hard.
"My radiant sun," she told her softly. "Whatever you choose to do, where so ever you choose to go, know that my love for you will never fade. No matter how we may change or how much time passes. That whatever you choose to do, you will have my full support. Never forget that you are free to choose and that is all I want for you."
Azem's face screwed up in pain before she hugged her tightly. Venat fought the tears as she held her for a long, long time.
"We will meet again," Azem promised her, "Once I find a way to save this star… we will meet again."
"I know you will," Venat smiled sadly as she let her hands slip from her own and disappear into the dark of night.
Little did she know, that would be the last time she would see her protégée with her soul whole and complete.
*End of Flashback*
"Whither tend your thoughts, Venat?" they asked, bringing Venat out of her memories. "Where you lead, we will follow."
Venat could not help but pray for Azem's safety and well-being… but she also knew that they were almost out of options. The plans for Zodiark was well underway and at this point they all knew that they could no longer slay Zodiark outright, since that would remove the now protective veil of aether. Venat had all the other concepts ready to go to seal him away… everything was planned out to the tiniest of details… and once she became Hydaelyn… she would have the power she would need to see it all come to fruition.
But she wasn't going to resort to it just yet… she still had to try… had to reach out to her fellows once more and try not to give in to despair. She had the means to become Hydaelyn at any time, but she chose to return to Amaurot once more hoping to see that something will prove to her that she doesn't have to sacrifice the world and people she loved.
She slowly looked up and answered, "I shall not speak ill of the Convocations—they too seek only to secure the future of our star. Yet it is plain they will not countenance a permanent solution. That being the case, we must ask ourselves as simple question: are we prepared to pursue our chosen course even should it mean suffering the eternal condemnation of our brethren? If so, I see no further reason to demur. Let us bring forth the Light that shall ever after keep the Darkness in check."
There was a slight debate as they weight their options—or lack thereof—before they all agreed in the end. In order to give Hydaelyn the boost she would need to battle against Zodiark, however, not even their own lives would be enough… they were willing to offer up their souls to ensure that they give Venat the strength to do what is necessary. They promised to wait here for her signal—ready to act the moment that she called to them.
And so Venat prepared herself to leave… ready to face the end of days head on and see what mankind's answer would be.
As she headed towards the doors, one of her fellows called out, "Venat, a moment if you will?"
She turned to see one of her oldest and dearest friends hurrying towards her.
"Venat, please… why must it be you?" he asked, getting straight to the heart of the matter. "If I may speak plainly, I would sooner it were another—any other. You are our leader. None can take your place."
She smiled sadly at him. Such a loyal friend… in fact, it was him whom she had decided to base the future Watcher off of. She could think of no other capable of handling Zodiark's prison.
"You know as well as I that but few support our cause," she reminded him gently. "Far fewer than they who place their faith in Zodiark. If Hydaelyn is to stand a chance of opposing Him, I am the only one who might suffice as Her heart."
In truth, it had to be her. She could not allow any other to have to wait and suffer for thousands of years. She knew she could do it… while it wouldn't be easy, she forced a smile though and promised, "Rest assured, however: I shall not vanish from this world. The form I take shall ever remain my choice."
He looked like he wanted to argue, but after a moment of thinking it all over, he sighed in defeat.
"Then I will press you no more. Only know this… you will be sorely missed." He then looked away and asked, "I wonder… is this how the Convocation felt about Elidibus?"
Venat looked away as she remembered how fondly Azem had been of young Elidibus and could only imagine the pain she must have gone through to discover that Elidibus offered himself to become Zodiark's heart.
Her friend gazed at her and she could just make out the concern in his eyes through the holes in his mask as he asked, "Is there truly no other way?"
"Nay, I am still full of doubt," Venat admitted, her hand over her heart. "I vowed from the beginning that all of this was to be a last, worst case scenario. I will return to Amaurot… and see it all there with mine own eyes. If our people are unable to stand against despair then I will continue on this path. But… if they can prove to me that they can learn from this tragedy then I will support them in all that I am able."
Her friend lowered his head as he thought this through.
"Do you believe that our people strong enough?" he asked softly. "After having lived in blissful happiness for so long… they may not be able to stomach the bitter taste of sorrow."
"Mayhaps not yet," she said firmly. "But they will one day."
She hesitated, before she finally confessed to her old friend the entire truth. Of the child from the future that she had met, and of the conviction that shone from her eyes. He listened carefully before he sighed once more.
"I see," he said at last. "Very well. If we do not meet again… know that if you believe this strongly… then so shall I."
Venat smiled sadly, feeling tears burning her eyes, before she turned and left them. So, for the final time, she left the Anyder and entered the city properly.
She would never forget the sight that awaited her. The burning skies that were filled with fire and smoke, the crumbling buildings around her as the survivors fled in a blind terror. The screams that filled the air as she coughed on the ash.
Everything happened just as Claire had warned her… how the destruction left the world ruin and death… monsters stalking the streets as fire rained down from the heavens. The cries echoed around her from some few survivors as they wailed in despair and lamented the comfort of memories of a peaceful world now forever lost to them.
It was… a horror beyond all imagining. A reality that was too terrible to face alone. She walked the streets, her heart shattering and breaking apart into countless pieces at the sights that awaited her. Zodiark had already halted the Final Days at this point and the flow of aether was starting to flow normally again… not only that, but other beings were also created—many such creations such as those with scales and horns… others with fluffy tails and ears… tall beings with elegant features… and several other races that were just beginning their lives.
Lives that the Amaurotines were planning to sacrifice in hopes of reviving those that sacrificed themselves before.
She found many of them gathered there, survivors, including a couple Convocation members, as she stepped forward, listening to them discussing their plans.
"This is all wrong… why must we suffer so?" someone wept.
"It needn't be like this," another answered. "No, there must be a way to restore things to the way they were. To reclaim the perfect paradise we once had."
But that would not change anything.
"No, my friends," she called, getting their attention as they all turned to look. "Suffering exists, and we cannot pretend otherwise. No civilization, however great, could eliminate it. If we would live, we must accept it as our constant companion. Let us not seek to forget this tragedy. Let us carry it in our hearts, that we may grow stronger and know true happiness."
It would not be easy, but they could do it… this she knew was not something that was beyond them. But it seemed that they had very different thoughts on the matter.
"We can't accept it! We won't accept it! It will be ours again—a world free of sorrow!" one cried as others nodded.
Meteion's report was ringing in her ears as she cried out, "No, it will not, for there has ever been sorrow. Mankind was just spared its biting sting for a time. So please, open your eyes. To try and reclaim those lives we lost by sacrificing yet more isn't wisdom. It is weakness. No paradise is without its shadows. If we cannot accept this truth and learn from our pain, then our plight shall be repeated."
What they did wasn't going to prevent the Final Days from coming forever. They were granted a brief reprieve, that is all. She thought of the suffering of future generations and knew that they had to accept their responsibility for the Final Days rather than force them to bear their burdens.
But they would not listen.
She stared in horror, knowing that there was nothing now that she could say that would halt their prayers when they turned back to Zodiark and offered up the new lives around them in exchange for his blessing. Venat begged for them to listen to reason, had expected some resistance, but to turn away from her words so firmly…? It was here that she finally understood her future self's decision in why she did what she did.
She barely even noticed when her blade appeared in her hand.
The others noticed and someone demanded, "You would destroy it? Our beautiful world?"
Suddenly, the words she spoke to her friend came back to her as they overlooked Elpis and she drew comfort from it. "Lands that stretched on forever. Skies one could drown in. The heartbeat of nature, silent yet strong. And amidst it all a people Beacons of light and life. Laughter that warmed my heart like naught else before. They are my meaning and my purpose. My love."
That's right.
She was just one force against the remaining thousands… a chorus of desperation to return to a peaceful life that would only doom them. Despite all that, this world and its people were her greatest love and she had to keep going until she saw a future for them. It had been love which drove her to such extremes and plan for the worst case scenario. So great is her love for her people that she would put herself through the most unimaginable hell, watching them suffer and cry out in anguish for millennia upon millennia just for the slightest chance of saving them.
She thought of that brave, reckless traveler and of the conviction that shone from her world-weary eyes. The fierce determination to continue on no matter what… she wanted to see a world filled with people like that.
"Has your journey been good? Has it been worthwhile?"
She wish she had a chance to hear her answer… to while away the quiet hours while telling her future champion her own joys, her triumphs, her hardships that made her who she was today. And to tell her how grateful she was for this life of hers. Mayhaps someday… a day to look forward to.
"In spite of… or perhaps because of this, I choose to believe," she decided as she stepped forward, where they were slowly beginning to panic. "In mankind's potential. In his ability to find a way forward."
And to find that way forward, she had to remove the temptation of going backwards to that peaceful, near-perfect world. She would see them live up to their potential, to create a world through the blood, sweat, and tears of their own strength and the support of each other. Even if it meant condemning them all to a future of suffering to get there.
Her mind made up, she looked on fiercely.
"So let there be no way back!" she cried before swinging her blade about and held it aloft. "From that temptation I sunder us! No more shall man have wings to bear him to paradise." And as she brought it down, her reflection mirroring in her blade as she looked for the final time upon this unsundered world she declared: "Henceforth, he shall walk."
She then forever cast her true name aside and prepared herself to shatter this world.
(And so she broke the world. I could only imagine the hardship and pain that she had to go through as she struggled to find a way to support her people all the while knowing that the end would come. I wanted to add a little bit of Azem there with her and see more of the connection between the two of them before the Final Days arrived. But now they have and so the world is broken and she will be forced to look upon the devastation she had caused. The next chapter will be devoted to the years she had to wait and suffer, looking upon these sundered worlds. I will try to get it out before 6.1, but if not, I hope that this chapter will keep you all entertained until then! Only a little longer to wait! A week left to go!)