Answers of Divine Light

by RoseDragonWitch

Despite having retiring from her duties as Azem, Venat finds herself still as busy as ever. She was visiting Elpis for a special project… when a visitor appeared… one bearing both her own protective magicks, a sundered soul… and even knowledge of a possible future. The future of a doomed world…? This is the story of the woman who would be destined to become the Divine Light.

9. Final Blessing

Epilogue: Final Blessing

"You are serious about proposing this?" a familiar voice demanded in a voice so loud that everyone in the Annex could hear her. "Disbanding? Just like that?"

It had been Alisaie's voice that caused Claire to pause directly outside the main hall after returning to the Annex. She had been here ever since returning from Ultima Thule so that she could recover from her injuries that Zenos dealt at the edge of creation. She had finally recovered enough that the others felt comfortable with her leaving her room for short wanderings outside—provided that she not overexert herself.

Everyone had been put on edge with worry about her condition—almost frustratingly so. Especially when it came to the twins; who hadn't let her out of their sights until Y'shtola reassured them that her wounds had almost healed at this point and it was really just a matter of recovering her strength. Only after hearing that did they finally let up so she could have short 'strolls' around Sharlayan.

Claire had spent that morning wandering about the cliffs of tranquility, enjoying the salty breeze of the ocean before it had begun to snow again and she decided to return a little early. She had just walked through the doors—surprised to find that Ojika seems to have stepped away from his desk—before wondering if she could muster up the energy to make some hot chocolate when she heard Alisaie's voice call out from the main hall.

Curious, Claire drew closer to the closed doors, ready to knock, before Alisaie's voice went on, "I'm not one to put much store by organizations and all that, but what are we to do if another nation really needs our help? What if there's another threat to this star? Or…?"

"No one is saying that we disband forever and never see each other again, Alisaie," Y'shtola's calm voice cut in before she could get into her rant. "If a threat returns, we will return as well. That won't change."

"But then…?" Alphinaud's voice spoke up as well, sounding confused.

Thancred's voice then offered helpfully, "To the rest of the world, outside of the Scions, they will see it as a complete disbanding. And I'm sure that we will all still do our parts to help the people of this star wherever we are. But this is just going to be a way to get people to really start pulling their own weight as well."

"So, what you're saying is…?" G'raha's voice now spoke up with new understanding, "The Scions disbanding will just be a cover story."

"Indeed," Urianger's somber voice spoke up this time. "Though we Scions may now spread our wings across to the far reaches of Etheirys, we shalt never truly be broken up."

"That's what we were thinking, anyway," Thancred confirmed. "We have all been through far too much together to just walk out of each other's lives for good and all. If any of us sends request for aid, I don't think that we will hesitate to rush to lend a helping hand. But for now, I do think that it would be good if the Scions aren't seen working together for a time."

"To be fair, the Scions have pretty much accomplished all they set out to do," Estinien's voice added now. "Not only is there a cure for tempering, but thanks to Vrtra's warding scales, the allied nations and the Far East now have ways of preventing tempering all together. So that will negate the Scion's involvement with dealing with any future summonings since they don't need Echo-user warriors to fight them off anymore."

"Not only that, but the peoples of Etheirys and the beast tribes are now slowly starting to set aside their bad blood, as well as sharing the means to free their tempered kin," Thancred added again. "Since there seems to be more peaceful discussions on the horizon between man and beastman, the reasons for summoning primals will also be greatly reduced."

"Not to mention that with Garlemald no longer a threat, there is no longer an empire for us to fight against," Alphinaud confirmed and the silence settled over them all.

"When you put it like that, I guess… I can understand the reasoning," Alisaie sighed and Claire could all but imagine her shaking her head in defeat at this. "Well, when Claire gets back, we should consult her opinion and…?"

"No, she is the one person whom we do not," Urianger said and Claire blinked in surprise at that as she leaned her head closer to the door to listen.

"What? What are you saying?" G'raha asked, sounding just as surprised and she could almost see how his ears and his tail would be standing up on end to have been told this. "She's one of our dear comrades and has just as much say as…?"

Claire heard Thancred sigh and confess, "Me, Y'shtola, and Urianger talked a little bit about this before and came to the same conclusion. The thing is, we know that she would probably be against the disbanding of the Scions. But, really it's because of her that we feel that it would be for the best that the Scions disband."

Claire was now completely baffled and she felt her hand curl into a fist as anger began to boil in the pit of her stomach. Were they actively trying to keep her in the dark again? What in the world could justify them wanting to keep her out of such discussions?

It seemed she wasn't the only one thinking that for Alisaie demanded with a sharp chill to her voice, "So what are you saying? That her opinion doesn't count here?"

"No one is saying that, Alisaie," Y'shtola replied in a calming voice. "Under normal circumstances we would, of course, have her in the room with us as we talk about this. And we will tell her soon about our reasons for disbanding… but we wanted you all to be on board with our reasons before we tell her."

"Whatever for?" Alphinaud asked, sounding more lost with every word spoken.

"Look, if the Scions remain active, then there will be no small amount of people petitioning our aid," Thancred added with a dour tone. "Or to be more specific… her aid. And that's the problem. We all know by now that she's not the type of person who can step away should someone be in need. They'll drag her into their problems, trying to get her around to their way of thinking that 'it's for the greater good' or some other stupid reason. But, knowing her, she will undoubtedly wish to come to their aid anyway… and she will be dreading every moment of it. This is a decision we have to make for her sake despite how unkind it may seem on the surface. But… I do think that she needs us to make this decision no matter how much she might protest. Because she needs to know that it's ok for her to put her own needs and desires first."

"There is always a chance that she does agree that the Scions must disband," Y'shtola added. "Mayhap she will come to the same reasons that we did and agree it's for the best. In either case, we wanted to make sure that you all were willing to help us convince her that this is in her best interests as well should she prove to be resistant to the change. So long as she remains a Scions, at least to the eyes of the world, then she will never know another moment's peace."

"What do you mean by that?" Alisaie asked as Claire closed her eyes, understanding sinking in.

"Make no mistake, I'm sure that I speak for everyone here when I say that she's more than a friend, she is family to us all," Thancred added with a firmness to his tone. "We all owe her more than a few debts I think. But she has always put her own happiness aside for the sake of others… especially if that involves helping all of us. I think that has gone on long enough and that we do what is best for her and think of her future for a change. The problem isn't the fact that the Scions are a powerful organization now, which is true; but the real problem is that now she is pretty much the most famous person on this star at the moment."

"You mean that she just saved the world, if not the whole universe from Meteion," Estinien pointed out gruffly, gruffly catching on to what he was getting out.

"Exactly," Y'shtola said, all business-like. "She has made a good recovery and it shalt be long before she is able to fully leave the confines of the Annex, and even Sharlayan. But that begs the question to what will happen after she is ready to leave? News is still spreading far and wide of what she has done, and people will petition her aid for a chance to have that strength for their own. I can seem them all flocking to the Rising Stones and I doubt that poor Tataru will be able to stop them all at the door every single time. Sooner or later, they will beg her to join them in affairs that she should not have to concern herself with."

"But as kind a nature as she hath, she will undoubtedly feel that she will have to agree for the sake of others," Urianger sighed. "And thus, pull her into more battles where she would only continue to suffer in silence."

Everyone fell quiet at that for a long time and Claire gently rested her head against the door as they seemed to let that all settle in.

"This situation isn't easy for any of us," G'raha spoke up at last. "But the fact is that we owe it to her to give her a happier ending than what you described."

"There are other reasons for why now would be the best time for the Scions to disband, but that is just the most important one," Thancred declared. "The Scions have become a household name. Far more than I think any of us ever thought possible. Just thinking about how far we have come…? I'm sure that Minfilia is beaming with pride at the thought."

He paused there and Claire could clearly imagine the sad smile he was giving them as he thought of Minfilia.

"She would be so happy to know just how much good we have done for the realm…" he sighed as his tone sounded a little but more emotional. "But I also believe that were she standing here with us, she would be agreeing with our reasoning as well. Like we all discussed, the Grand Company of Eorzea will be capable of dealing with most affairs about primals without asking for Claire to be involved thanks to the porxies and warding scales… the beast tribes are eager for the idea of peace… communications with Garlemald is off to a fine start…? What other reason could the Scions have need for us right now?"

There was another round of silence as everyone let that sink in.

"I wonder how the nation leaders will take this news though?" Krile's voice spoke up for the first time. "They have relied upon the Scions for a long time now and I fear that it may cause some disorder should we disappear at once."

"That is why we will plan to get all our affairs in order before we disband," Y'shtola reassured her. "We will also be sure to send messages to the nation leaders, explaining our reasons, and will tie up any loose ends before anything is official. I would give it at least a full moon or so before we are able to finish everything that needs being done."

"I believe that Ser Aymeric, at least, will be overjoyed to hear that our mutual friend not have to work so hard from here on out," Estinien spoke up with certainty. "As for the other leaders, I don't think that they will take the news too hard. At least not for long."

"Yeah, well, in Ser Aymeric's case at lease," Thancred chuckled. "I swear that he is smitten with our warrior friend. To be fair, he's got good taste."

A round of chuckles seemed to echo about the room at that before Alisaie spoke up again with a little more certainty in her voice, as if she was starting to get on board with all she heard and added, "Agreed, if the nations are in trouble, they will probably be more open to negotiating with each other if they feel that the Scions aren't here as their safety net anymore."

Silence again, and Claire could only imagine what each one of them must look like at this point as she let out a sad sigh. They were quiet for so long that she wondered if they somehow left the room, but then Alphinaud finally spoke up with more determination in his tone that clearly spoke of resolve, "The truth is, when me and Alisaie were willing to sacrifice ourselves on Ultima Thule… we did so with the prayer that she will find happiness at journey's end. And as difficult as it is to imagine the Scions dissolution, even if it's just to announce it to the public, if it will help her find that sense of happiness… then I will not object to it."

"Well, like they said, it's not like its forever, right?" Alisaie reminded them. "We will still be in contact with one another, and continue doing what we do best. Assisting the people of this star. And should we need a helping hand, we can count on each other, right?"

"Absolutely," G'raha nodded with a smile in his voice. "I have made too many promises with her to go back on them now. Plus, this gives Claire a chance to be able to explore more of the world without having such heavy responsibilities and duties upon her shoulders. I have no doubt that she will use that free time to find more mysteries and wonders that we can still be a part of. So, if seeing her being free to do what she wants means the suspension of the Scions, then I agree with it as well."

Estinien grunted before admitting, "Well, she's always had my support, but I can say that she's about as comfortable in the meeting room as I am. We're more at home either on the battlefield or with our aimless wanderings. And I suppose that I'm not opposed completely to this idea either. Vrtra has asked me for a favor should I find the time…?"

"A good opportunity for everyone to spend some time away and focus on our own growth, as it were?" Krile asked with a slight chuckle. "How about we just think of it as… studying abroad or something? Though, I'm guessing that we will ask for her opinion on this so that we don't completely blindside her when the day comes?"

"Of course," Y'shtola agreed. "Like I said, she should be fit to return with us to the Rising Stones soon. Once we arrive, we'll discuss it properly with her and address any fears or concerns she has. It will take a little time to get everything ready, not to mention explaining everything to the other Scions once we return as I'm sure they'll all have their view on it and we'll be sure to answer them honestly. But I do believe that this will be the best option for everyone. Question now is… are we all in agreement?"

Claire opened her eyes as she heard the murmured agreement from everyone and she stepped away from the door. She made her way to the other side of the Annex, but when she held up her hand to the door that led to the nap rooms… she suddenly realized that she didn't want to return there just yet.

She wasn't sure how she was to feel about all of this.

A part of her felt both relived… and anger. Relived that they were thinking of her well-being… and anger that they were going to make this decision for her and pretty much gang up until she agreed with this choice.

But would it really be so bad? They made a lot of good points… and she honestly didn't think she could stand the thought of being dragged into another political battle after all that happened…? But…?

Her hand suddenly started shaking and she blinked, a little surprised by that and clenched her fingers tightly before she closed her eyes and felt herself being carried away on the flow of aether.

*The Watchtower on the Moon*

She was never one to run from her problems, but right now, she just wanted to go someplace where she could all but promise herself some solitude. And she could think of no other place on Etheirys… than off of it.

She had arrived to Mare Lamentorum, and was gazing up at the beautiful world above her. So now here she sat at the edge of the tower's balcony that overlooked the remains of what had been Zodiark's cradle… and the beautiful planet of Etheirys, shining amidst this sky of endless stars. She believed that Urianger spoke it best, calling it the most beautiful jewel amidst this sky of sparkling diamonds…?

She sighed before she kicked her legs out from over the edge of the balcony as she felt the silence pressing in on her.

How many times had she thought of simply leaving the Scions? Simply leave and go someplace where she wasn't known as a hero, or a liberator, or even as a Warrior of Light? How long had she longed to be able to shed her many titles and take the time to sit back and enjoy her life?

She had a few bells time to calm down and really think about what she wanted, and the more that she did think of it, the more she could see their motives and knew them to be right. She knew that they were only thinking of her happiness, and she had to admit that the idea of being asked to participate in any kind of diplomacy meetings from here on out nearly set her to the edge of panic. This would be a chance for her to be able to rest and relax… to be able to enjoy more of life rather than worry about the fate of this star and have the expectations weighing on her spirit like a mountain slowly crushing her.

No, what made her upset was the idea of how scattered they would be.

Because once the Scions were disbanded… for the first time since before she first stepped into the Waking Sands… she would be journeying on her own.

Not even having Hydaelyn—or rather… Venat to watch over her.

She knew that she hadn't had a chance to properly think of Venat since the before the final battle with the Endsinger, and she felt her heart ache at the memory of her friend. Just thinking back on her brought back so many emotions… not least of all how she felt when she first saw the mothercrystal near the beginning of her journey… when she first heard Hydaelyn's loving voice.

She could hear the echo of her lullaby in her mind and she slowly pulled her legs up so that she could rest her chin upon her knees as she continued to think. She had no family while she was growing up… no real home before she set out on her journey. She remembered the kindness that the villagers showed her while she was a child and they never once made her feel that she was an outsider…?

But she still felt like one.

She had seen the other children with their parents and siblings…? Watch how they would sit down at the dinner table as they shared the day's events with each other… or how she would see them walking hand in hand through the markets as they simply talked.

She remembered watching them and how she ached for the chance to know what that was like…? Just to walk down the street holding onto her mother's hand… or maybe riding up on her father's shoulders…?

It hurt just to think about it.

The moment that she saw Hydaelyn—heard her adoring voice—she felt something she could not recall ever having felt before that moment and that was the sense of having someone truly caring for her like a parent. When she first bathed in the light from the Mothercrystal, she felt as if she had been wrapped in a warm embrace. Having little to no sense of what that was like growing up, the idea that there was someone who loved her, who watched over her, was a comfort she could not describe.

She was slowly growing used to the idea of what it felt like to be loved by a father thanks to Lord Edmont and his family—and she smiled as she knew how wonderful it felt to have that sense of belonging. But there was still that part of her heart that secretly ached to know what it felt like to be loved by your mother as well.

Yet when Minfilia was taken from them, she began to fear that which once comforted her. Why? What did her friend do to deserve such a fate? Would that have become her own fate one day? Just what was Hydaelyn and could she turn on them at any time?

When she then learned from Emet-Selch what Hydaelyn truly was, an elder primal, she had felt sick to her stomach. Did that mean that she was just another tempered soul? A servant to be used and abused by a master before being discarded later on when she was no longer needed? Y'shtola had reassured her that she still had her own will so that even if it was true that Hydaelyn was a primal, she still had her own sense of self. But then she saw what the light could do… how dangerous it could be when she was forced to face the sin eaters. She didn't know what to think?

She then thought back to the woman she met—the woman behind the towering crystal and her words: "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."

Claire felt tears welling up in her eyes at the memory for she knew those feelings so clearly. It was as if Venat had spoken the words that were etched upon Claire's very heart. Never had she ever felt a soul that understood her in a way that she could... never felt one that could resonate with hers so closely—save for perhaps, Ardbert. When they met when she was still Venat, Claire did not see her as the goddess she was destined to become, but as a woman who loved this world with a mischievous side to her. It was as if she was looking at her own reflection when they spoke for she could not hope to ever put her own feelings, her every hopes and her love for this world, as eloquently as Venat did.

And when they crossed blades back on Elpis for fun, they fought so similarly that it was as if she was facing herself. They let go of their burdens and fought for the love of it. In that moment she felt so free as they danced around each other—not as Hydaelyn or the Warrior of Light—but as two travelers who found their match.

Perhaps that was why Zenos was so drawn to her? Did he feel the same thing that she had felt when they fought before? Was that why he was so obsessed with fighting her?

Did she fit the role as Hydaelyn's champion due to her own choices or did she become Hydaelyn's champion because she was slowly molded to that role? She did not know. Nor did she believe she would ever know now that Hydaelyn was gone… struck down in hopes that she was strong enough to do so.

Yet despite how she had grown to fear Hydaelyn after her adventure on the First… those few times that they had been able to speak afterwards… she only ever felt love from her. Venat's devotion to Etheirys and its people though was so strong that nothing could break it… how she suffered alongside mankind and weep for her heroes. Only now did Claire realize that she was waiting… all this time for her 'champion' to arrive to her.

Both of them have suffered, have done many cruel things and cut down countless others. They shaped each other to be what they became… their journey having ever been taken together… their souls so inextricably bound that nothing would ever break it. But now Hydaelyn was gone… and Claire no longer knew which way to go.

She had no ideas where she wanted to go from here… having not dreamt she would live past this nightmare. But now that nightmare was over and she awoke to a new day with the world finally safe from the Final Days. So… what was left for her to do? She knew that she could spend some time travelling about the city states, visiting friends and teachers… see how all was faring…? But that would quickly end… and then what?

She wanted to speak with Venat about this but she knew she couldn't.

Not that she hadn't tried anyway.

Before arriving here to the moon, she visited the First to see if the way back to Elpis was still open. To her astonishment, she found that she was able to step through the mirror back to the past… how long it will remain open was anyone's guess but she was able to return.

*A little earlier*

"So… Chief Hermes left with Emet-Selch and Hythlodaeus then?" she asked as the researcher nodded.

"Yes, it seems that Hermes was injured the other day and he was brought to Amaurot for recovery. He is doing very well and word has now gotten around that he was just offered the position of Fandaniel upon the Convocation! Isn't that exciting? And more so, it seems that he will be accepting the role very soon," she answered happily. "What an honor! We have had many of our own researchers here in Elpis join the seats of the Convocation over the many centuries and we were all so happy to hear that Hermes was chosen. Of course, there is much work to do before it becomes official. You know, the paperwork alone will be a flood to get through. Not only that, but he will have to name a new Chief for Elpis in his absence… so much to do. Either way, he will be returning to Elpis to make sure all is in order before taking his seat with the Convocation. So I'm sure the current Fandaniel understands completely and will agree to remain for a little longer until all the preparations are made."

Claire felt her heart ache at the thought of not being able to see either Emet-Selch or Hythlodaeus again. But then she asked the question she was truly wanting the answer for, "And Venat? I know she was here when last I visited? Is she still…?"

But despite the feeble hope in her heart, the researcher shook her head.

"Sadly no," she confirmed with a sigh. "She left several days ago. She said she had done all she needed to do at Elpis and was now going to be working on a new project. How very exciting, don't you agree? When I asked her about it, she just smiled and said that it was a secret. I see that the years have not dampened her adventurous spirit."

She wasn't here anymore. Claire supposed that she shouldn't be surprised. But that didn't make it any easier to hear.

"Do… do you know when she will visit again?" Claire asked slowly, though already suspecting the answer.

"Oh, I'm afraid I don't know for sure," the researcher replied sadly. "It is always a joy to have her around. But she is a wanderer by nature. As is expected from someone who once bore the name of Azem. It could be tomorrow, a decade, or a good solid century—maybe longer—before she decides to grace us with her presence again. She never sends word or anything because I think she likes surprising people. But she did make it sound like she would be away for a long time when I asked her about this new project of hers. You are welcomed to wait around if you like; having a familiar as interesting as you has been a wonderful experience, but I can't say when we would be next seeing her. She did mention she will be returning to her home in Amaurot for a brief stay if that is any help?"

As tempting as it was to be able to visit Amaurot back in its glory, Claire knew that she would be risking too much by going. Deep down, she knew that she shouldn't even still be coming here to the past, but she just couldn't help herself.

She forced a smile and thanked the researcher before turning and walking away.

She walked to the very edge of the floating island as she gazed out at the beautiful setting sun. Everything here seemed so peaceful and happy… she could very easily imagine why Emet-Selch yearned so dearly to have the world back the way it was.

*Back to the present*

Claire opened her eyes once more as she let the memoires flow away from her and she continued to gaze up at Etheirys.

She knew that it was for the best… knew that she was already risking enough just by secretly revisiting Elpis without the others knowledge. She shouldn't risk anyone else from the past finding out about her and the future… but she couldn't help but balk at the injustice of it all. She wanted to weep and rage with the knowledge of what would come and what Venat would be forced to do. She wanted to, at least, let Venat know that her suffering won't be in vain and that everything would be alright.

But would it though?

All that remained of the Ancients now was here upon the moon… every other trace now faded in the dust as time ticked by.

She reached down the front of her robes and pulled out the crystal of Azem… gods only know if the power to summon aid to her still lurked inside it… but it wouldn't surprise her if that final trace of magick left it when the last of the Ancients left this world behind.

Her vision blurred as the tears flowed down her cheeks and she wiped them away hard with her fist still clenched tightly around the stone. She didn't have a chance to mourn properly when they said their goodbyes in the Aetherial Sea… what with the Final Days at their doorstep… but now that she was given time to breathe, she realized just how alone she felt right now.

"There is no need to cry," said the voice of the Watcher and she jumped slightly as she looked up to see the figure robed in starlight appear behind her.

"Oh, forgive me for startling you, thus," they said apologetically. "I just wanted to make sure that you were alright?"

"Y-Yes," she admitted but then she regretted her words, finishing wiping her tears off with a slight bit of frustration. "I was just…?"

"You were thinking of Venat?" they asked knowingly as she looked back up at them in surprise as they chuckled slightly. Then, with an air of gentleness, they added, "I was just thinking of her as well. And when I sensed your presence, I could not help but feel a slight melancholy from you. Am I right in my assumption?"

Claire looked away before she gave a simple nod.

"I see," the Watcher told her. "Then, you need not feel alone in your sadness. I will also mourn for her. But please, do not weep for her. For she is free. Free from solitude and her duties. She is free to rest, safe in the knowledge that her children, the people of Etheirys whom she loved so dearly, are safe at last."

Claire nodded in acknowledgement, but she still felt that it was a poor reward for all Venat's years of waiting. The Watcher watched her for a brief time before they spoke again.

"Back when she was still Venat, she told me—well, the real me—that she was waiting for someone special to come along," they admitted to her. "A traveler from a distant future."

That certainly got Claire's attention as her eyes widen in surprise and the Watcher chuckled sadly.

"I could not believe the tale she told me at first," they admitted. "But I could see just how strongly she believed in it that I knew that it could not possibly be a something she made up. Rather, she told me that this person would be made to suffer and walk a long, difficult path. But Venat knew that she had to wait for her… and when the conjuncture of time blends our times together… that is when she would have her answer."

The Watcher slowly raided their hooded head and gazed off in the direction of both Zodiark's cradle and the shining star above them as they finished, "For a long time, I did not understand what she meant. It was only after meeting you, did it all start to become clear."

"So… when I appeared, you knew right away who I was?" she asked.

"I… suspected you were the one that Hydaelyn was waiting for," they admitted slowly. "After I was created here to be Zodiark's jailor… She told me that a day will come when Zodiark would be destroyed. When that happened, then we would know… if mankind was doomed to abandon this star… or fight for it. When thou did appear, I knew the time had finally come. And you proved that she was right to place her trust in you."

Claire knew that they were just trying to comfort her fears, yet she just couldn't muster up the energy to try and pretend to be happy about all of this as she turned back to stare at Etheirys.

"You always had the ability to choose. An ability She always valued. Despite becoming a primal, Hydaelyn would never take someone's free will away from them. She watched over you… guided you where she could… does that sound like something that someone would do if they did not care? You are so much more than just her champion or servant," the Watcher reassured her. "You are her daughter. Has she not always called you that?"

"Well…?" Claire began before falling silent, not sure what to think.

"I don't know the full details," the Watcher admitted, "But I do know with certainty that she had unwavering faith. Whatever else you may believe, know that everything she did, she did of own her free will. Her love for all of Etheirys will remain forever just as her love for you."

They suddenly let out a soft chuckle and added, "Mayhaps that was why she chose you… you take after her."

She was left alone after that when the Watcher went back inside.

Claire pondered the Watcher's words for a time as she let her thoughts try to stray from more depressing thoughts. Yet the harder she tried, the more she began to wonder what was going to become of the future now that Zodiark was no longer here? She wanted to ask the Watcher, but she wasn't sure how best to do it—or if the Watcher would have any idea anyway. She just sighed and wished she could remember more of her past life as Azem… or even her name, their real name, before the Convocation. She wished she could just remember… to have those memories…? Mayhaps then she wouldn't be so afraid of the future all of a sudden.

She found herself staring more and more at the star as the clouds slowly shifted and moved. She felt her eyes growing weary as a haze continued to flood into her mind and she slowly laid back, realizing how little sleep she had today and wanted to just rest her eyes for… for a moment…?

*The Aetherial Sea*

"Hear… Feel… Think…" Venat whispered softly into her champion's ear, who was now resting her head upon her lap. Claire barely stirred, slumbering on peacefully like she did the morning after Meteion first escaped them when Venat ensured that she could rest without dreams that night. She smiled at the thought. She seemed so tired and Venat couldn't bear to wake her from her dreams just yet. But she would have to get used to the idea of waking soon… there was still so much to do.

"My child," she told her, "You must now awaken. For we have been blessed with another beautiful day and I know you would hate to miss it."

Claire moaned slightly, still not wanting to wake up, but it was clear that she was slowly becoming aware of what was happening around her.

Venat took her time in prodding her awake until the girl's bright green eyes opened. Her vision seemed blurry and confused as she tried to grasp where she was. All too soon though, she realized that she was in a place she did not recognize and slowly raised her head to stare about her.

"Venat…?" she asked sleepily, staring around at the bright blue sky with hardly a cloud above them… and a beautiful field of Elpis flowers beneath them… all of them shining brightly as snow as Venat beamed at her.

"Yes?" she answered as Claire rubbed her eyes and slowly sat up.

"Where… where is this place?" she asked in confusion.

"We are on the very edge of the aetherial sea," Venat answered simply. "Right at the borders beyond dream and memory. People can sometimes reach this place in their dreams—albeit rarely. It seems that your wanderings have led you here… to me."

Claire slowly turned her head to her, where it seemed to take a moment for it all to click for her.

"How…?" Claire gasped, not sure if she believed what was right in front of her as Venat just looked like she was fighting the urge to laugh at the bewildered look on her face.

Instead, she just winked and held a finger up to her lips.

"That's a secret," she cooed and Claire just continued to stare at her as she felt tears of joy fill her eyes. She leaned forward and wrapped her arms around Venat's neck in a tight embrace. Venat didn't fight it, nor was she surprised by this as she hugged her back.

"My dear, sweet child…" she cooed, running her hand through her hair, "I'm so sorry that you had to go through all that. I just needed to see you with my own eyes."

"I missed you too," Claire confessed, feeling her eyes sting as she shut them and buried her face against Venat's robes. She felt so warm and solid here next to her even after Venat gently pulled away so that she could get a good look at her. Venat looked long and hard into her face, marveling just how far she had come, trying to find some way to convey all that she felt into words.

Claire suddenly turned red and looked down and Venat heard her mumble, "I… I've missed you so much already. I wish… you could come back with me."

Venat felt a painful ache inside as well as a sense of grief pang.

"Claire," she said kindly, as a lump began to rise in Claire's throat. "Thank you. But we both know that my time in this world is over. I know that this is difficult for you to hear, but I want you to know that you do deserve to be happy. To live… to be allowed peace. That is what you deserve and I know that all who came before feel the same way. All those whose lives you have touched all pray for the same thing."

Claire seemed to be struggling with her emotions, as if she wasn't sure what she should be feeling. Venat patiently waited until Claire was able to sort at least part of it out.

"I was so angry at you," she confessed quietly. "After the battle with the Ultima Weapon… I heard naught else but silence from you. I… I couldn't help but feel that you had abandoned me. And…? After all this…? I just…? I wasn't…?"

Her words were becoming more and more confused and tangled together so that it was hard to make it out, but Venat's eyes turned sad, understanding each word.

"I never wished for you to feel that," she told her sadly. "But I also knew that it was just the first of your many trials. You had put all your trust in me back then because you weren't ready to be a leader yet. This, I was aware, and so I promised myself to guide you as best as I could until I could no longer reach you."

"Was our connection that weak?" Claire asked and Venat looked down.

"After the Seventh Umbral Calamity, it had grown to be a struggle to make my voice heard. Not just to you, but to anyone who might have been able to hear me once," she confessed. "The shackles I created to bind Zodiark had grown so feeble that I truly feared that he would break free at any moment. And so that was why I had to ration what little strength I had left. To even speak with you was draining energy that mayhaps I could not risk. Yet, when I saw you in danger from Ultima's spell? I knew I had to act. So I reached out and used what little strength I reserved for communications. Since then, it was all I could do to keep my seal maintained for Zodiark to be kept in check."

She gazed back at her as she gently cupped her champion's face between her hands and looked fondly at her.

"Oh, how I wish I could have reached out more often… how I wished I could have helped you more…? But I truly could not any longer, even when Minfilia came onto me and lent me the strength I so desperately needed…?" she sighed.

"And… Minfilia… did… did you plan that for her from the beginning?" Claire asked worriedly and Venat shook her head.

"Minfilia was gifted with the Echo and it had been many years since any could hear my words as clearly as she could," she explained. "Yet please believe me when I tell you that I never would have forced her to aid me against her will… had she refused I would have sent her back to the shores of the aetherial sea. Yet, after she learned the truth… and especially how you were so inextricably bound with me…? She knew she had to help. And so, she did so willingly."

Claire could believe that. It wasn't hard for her to imagine Minfilia knowing that her fate would not be kind, but still making that sacrifice to protect this star and all who called it home.

"She… she was always like that," she sighed. "Always doing what she thought was right. Even if it drove me crazy."

Venat chuckled sadly.

"Know that she has found peace," Venat reassured her. "And I also know that you held onto a considerable amount of anger and resentment towards me after that. Know that I do not blame you for any of it. After all you were forced to face and go through, it was only natural that you would feel abandoned by me."

"I guess I was just upset with how I found out," Claire confessed with a bitterness she didn't realize was still there. "When Emet-Selch of all people…?"

"He was ever a sentimental one," Venat sighed and Claire tilted her head in confusion before Venat's eyes began to twinkle.

"Remember… Remember us…" she quoted from him. Claire stared at her before her eyes filled with tears once more and she was growing so tired of crying like a baby here.

"I don't… I don't remember…?" she began but Venat gently wiped the tears away. "I know they were dear to me… but I…?"

"And that would be enough for him," Venat reassured her with that kind smile. "He never would come out and admit to it, but he treasured the bonds he shared with Azem and Hythlodaeus more than anything else. He is free, as is Hythlodaeus… free from both imprisonment with Zodiark and from duty. And you helped them to reach that. They are still here… and they will forever watch over you. As will I."

She gently wiped the tears from Claire's eyes as they looked at each other—the silence between them both comfortable and uncomfortable at the same time. But they both seemed to recognize what the other wanted to say.

"You were never a pawn to me," Venat promised her, digging deep for those fears that had always been there even after learning Hydaelyn's true nature. "Never. Not a pawn, a weapon, or a tool to be used in my plans. You have always been so dear to me and that hasn't changed. You have always been loyal to me even when I didn't deserve it. But even with you knowing the entire truth, even hearing the whole story, you still kept faith with me."

She pulled her back into a hug and rocked her gently as he muttered thank you over and over. They remained like that for some time—or perhaps it was no time at all. It was very difficult to decide such things in this place.

Claire nodded as Venat chuckled at the memory and placed her hand over her heart. "I remember the tales you told me so clearly and have kept those stories in my heart all these years… have even born witness to most of them from where I watched within the aetherial sea. You were too humble after having seen them first-hand. You could have gone into much more exciting details."

Her smile then faded slightly as she closed her eyes.

"In my name you have fought and suffered…" she whispered as she laid her head against Claire's in a comforting way as Claire just buried her face against Venat's robes once more, clinging on desperately. "More… more than anyone else ever should have to. I did what I did because I believed that it was our only option. Mankind wasn't ready to walk forward on it's after the first Final Days. But when I saw you… watched you grow and set out on your own… in that moment it came full circle for me. I realized the sheer tragedy of it all. I remember seeing your newborn eyes as I watched from the aetherial sea… the innocent joy of simple pleasures. And then I recalled how your eyes looked when we met in Elpis…? You have been through too much… suffered too much."

Claire shut her eyes tightly as she fought the wave of guilt that rose up within her.

"And you suffered for thousands of years waiting for me," she reminded her. "For a long time… I was so angry with you. It felt like I was trapped, wandering around in the dark and that you had forsaken me. But all that time, you were the one who kept the faith in me." Her hands shook slightly as she held onto the cloth tightly, as if it were all that was holding her grounded. "But now I know why. You couldn't risk not letting me find my way back to you to the past. That is why you were so cryptic, wasn't it?"

"Part of it," Venat admitted sadly. "But also because I needed to know that you would be strong enough for the truth. But what I did, while necessary… was not kind. Thou has every right to be angry at me. But know this… know that I have never once given up on thee. I had faith… faith that you could rise where I, myself, had failed. I am only sorry for the pains you suffered through because of me."

"I never did anything that I didn't want to," she whispered back. "You… you didn't make me do anything. I chose to do it all on my own."

"Just as how you never forced me to do anything against my will," Venat reassured her.

"But…?" Claire began before her words got lost on their way up to her mouth.

"But…?" Venat coaxed on as Claire pulled back to look at her face.

"But I always wanted to believe that I had someone watching over me," she confessed. "And no I know that I did. It was you who watched over me… supported me from afar. Ever since I was a child, I wished that I had someone there watching over me… and I did… that was you… wasn't it?"

Venat smiled.

"I have watched over all my beloved children of this star… have witnessed the births of each and every single one of them. Many of them were your own incarnations… brave and kind… and like you, many have fought for the future of this star. Many times they succeeded, and many have failed. And then came the day when you were finally born into this world. And the moment I looked into your eyes, I knew it to be you… at long last," she admitted, smiling as if remembering something truly happy in that moment. "I have watched over thee since then. In the summer breezes as you learned to walk… in the crickets singing you to sleep when you were afraid of the dark—to the birds greeting you with their song as the first thing that you woke up to… in the warm sunshine that touched your face after a long rain or the strong branches of the trees that you were so fond of climbing. Ever had I been there watching over you. And when the joyous day came when you felt ready to venture out on your own… I could only smile at the excitement that shone from you. I have never left thy side… not once… I was always there, watching over you… always."

The two looked at each other as Claire placed her hand over her heart and shut her eyes as a feeling of warmth washed over her and held her as if she were wrapped in a blanket of safety and love.

Venat then gently tucked a loose strand of pink hair behind Claire's ear as she then asked, "But there seems to be something else weighing upon your mind? What is it that troubles you so, my child?"

Claire looked down before she took a deep breath and told her about the Scions, how she overheard her friends talking about disbanding and how she didn't know how to feel about it all.

"It sounds to me that they are thinking of you when they were discussing it," Venat pointed out and Claire shrugged at that.

"But they aren't even bothering to ask me what I think of this whole thing," she reminded her.

"Then how do you feel? Do you want the Scions to disband?" Venat asked her and Claire wasn't able to look her in the eyes as she struggled with an answer that reflected the turmoil within her.

"No… that's the thing, I don't… but… I know that they're right in that we will continue to be dragged into the affairs of other nations…?" Claire admitted slowly. "So… I guess from that point of view then there is no way that we would ever be able to escape our duties so long as we are Scions…?"

"Why is it such a bad thing to disband?" she asked with a smile.

"Well, I…?" Claire began before falling silent. She had been dreading the idea of being on her own more than anything… but now that she really thought of it… she realized that Venat was right… why was she thinking of it as a bad thing?

"I know that it must be scary at the thought of venturing out on your own after being with your friends for so long," she agreed kindly. "But 'tis not a farewell. And even if you will not be able to see them as often as you used to, they will continue to support you in whatever else you desire. Just think of this as a new beginning. Like when you first started off when you left home the first time. You had nothing but also nothing could stop you. Besides, you made a promise to Emet-Selch, did you not?"

Claire paused at that as his words entered her mind once more: "Tell me, have you been to the ruins beneath the waters of the Bounty? Or the treasure islands beyond the frozen waters of Blindfrost, in Othard's north? The fabled golden cities of the New World? The sacred sites of the forgotten people of the south sea isles? What about Meracydia, the southern continent? Do you know aught of its present state of affairs? I thought not. Even of your little Eorzea, you know precious little. The true identities of the Twelve, for instance. All of which is to say: expand your horizons. Go forth and seek discovery. Some of the civilizations in the reflections will surprise you. As the bearer of Azem's crystal, you may consider your duty to see at least that much… I certainly did."

Venat suddenly laughed and Claire looked up as she chortled and finished, "He always used tricks like that to motivate Azem when he felt that she was being lazy."

"Are you saying I don't do my fair share?" Claire asked as a smile spread across her face. "Seeing the rest of this world, I can understand, but how does he plan for me to visit the other shards?"

"Oh, I'm sure you'll find a way," Venat said confidently, a bright twinkle suddenly appearing in her eyes while she whispered in excited hushed tones, "Oh, the sights you will see…?"

"Could you see them all from the aetherial sea?" Claire asked curiously and Venat nodded.

"Over the Source and each of the reflections, I could see it all," she sighed lovingly. "Such sights that one would never have thought possible?"

"What are the other shards like?" she asked as curiosity blazed inside her chest.

And at the question, that twinkle became more pronounced.

"How to describe them? Entire cities floating above the clouds… technological marvels that would shame even those that you find across Garlemald… such as entire cities living within massive airships as they cross the world… networks of vaults and canals deep below ground as warriors train in secret… palaces made entirely of ice within the hearts of the frozen wastes… while blossoming oasis's within the hottest of deserts… even entire nations exist underwater cities as clear as glass… or even upon land with towering spires that would dwarf even those of Amaurot?"

She then went on and on about some truly incredible sights that sounded more like they came from some kind of fictional story than in real life. But Claire was enraptured by all of them, her mind able to construct only vague imaginings of what such things would look like. Such things were enough to stir her imagining beyond compare. But when she suddenly saw the mischievous look upon Venat's face, she had a thought.

"You're teasing me now," Claire said, catching on. "Is all this even real?"

"I don't know. Maybe?" Venat grinned with a wink. "You'll just have to go and see with your own eyes to know for sure."

"Is that a challenge?" Claire shot back as Venat threw back her head and laughed once more before she placed her hands on either side of Claire's head and gazed affectionately at her.

"If I said yes would you seek to prove me wrong?" she asked and when she saw how Claire could only grin back, she laughed, "Well, I guess my challenge is accepted. That's good to see. I can only imagine just what kind of amazing feats that you will be able to accomplish from here on out."

"So much for taking it easy," Claire muttered.

"Since when were you one for the quiet life?" Venat pointed out. "You have already proven your strength time and time again. Should you doubt me, then look back at how far you have come. What you have accomplished in so short a time. You have struggled and suffered, yet you have always chosen your own way and endured your hardships. And I know that you will again."

She took Claire's hands within her own, feeling callouses and scars and gently touched them as if to emphases her point.

"And even should you not have ever taken up the mantle of the Warrior of Light… Still I know you would rise to the title of hero," she reassured her. "For it is not strength in battle alone that makes you my champion. Heroism takes many forms — those who do all kinds of good, not only with martial prowess. It wasn't just your strength, Claire, that made me reach out to you as my champion, but the love you felt for this world—for all life itself. In everything that you did and will continue to do, I know that part of you will never fade. That is what made you who you are today. I but gave you the tools needed… 'twas you who did all the work."

Such words were as a salve to her soul and Claire drew the comfort she had been so desperately seeking for a long time. Claire's grip tightens once more on Hydaelyn's hand, her hands not trembling for once as she asked, "You really have to go, don't you?"

Venat didn't answer that as Claire sighed, not wanting to say goodbye. She felt a stray tear fall, but Venat doesn't bother to brush it away this time… because it matched the one that slowly fell from her own brilliant blue eye.

"I'm so sorry," she told her. "I regret that we had so little time together. None of this was easy. In truth, the worst part was knowing what I would have to do to my beloved Azem. The idea that I would be forced to sunder her hurt me more that I could ever describe." She carefully placed a finger under Claire's chin to move her head up so that she could look at her eyes. "You are so very like but unlike her."

"I am not Azem," Claire pointed out dully.

"No, you are not," she agreed wholeheartedly. "And you shouldn't try to be. You are you and no one else. But I remember when we first met… when you were still Azem. How you had a hunger for adventure; to see the world. I took you under my wing and even had you accompany me on several journeys. And when the time came for me to leave the Convocation, I could think of no other whom I would ever name to be my successor. Not because of your talents for creation—which you refused to use except when you had to—but because of the boundless love you held for this world."

Claire blinked in surprise before repeating, "I rarely used creation magicks?"

"Oh, yes," Venat confirmed. "You were almost as talented as Emet-Selch was at it. But that was not your way of things. You were content to watch the creatures that we were already blessed with. With so much to see that already existed, you felt that there was no need for you to add to it."

Claire smiled shakily at that.

"I wish I could remember," she whispered sadly.

"You will… one day," Venat promised her. "When you are ready to return to the Aetherial Sea. And when that day comes… we will all be there to welcome you with open arms."

Venat then looked skywards and said, "This dream will soon come to an end." Claire felt her heart twist at those words as Venat gazed back at her. "You have still so much to see and explore. Countless more adventures are awaiting you to discover them. With this, I fear that my knowledge of the future ends so I cannot say what will come next. Only that you need not fear facing them alone. For you have the support of your cherished friends there with you."

This was true, but that didn't mean that Claire wasn't afraid. The idea of taking this step on her own was more frightening than she ever thought and embarrassingly expressed this as Venat nodded.

"That is understandable," she reassured her. "And so… before we must part again, I will bestow two final gifts to thee."

Claire opened her eyes in surprise and Venat smiled widely at that.

"That got your attention, didn't it?" she asked knowingly. "A child cannot help but perk up at the promise of gifts."

Claire huffed but she laughed with her at the same time. She then felt Venat press something thin and hard into her palm. Claire looked at her hand and opened her fingers to see a tiny whistle there.

"That whistle will call Argos to your side," Venat told her as Claire stared at it before she explained, "After I sundered the world, I gave my final orders to Argos. To watch over the seal which bound Zodiark… and to wait and assist those who would come to the moon one day. When you told me in Elpis how you had ridden him before, I knew that this had to be the reason. I told you, he never forgets his favorites."

"You want me to watch over him?" Claire repeated in awe.

"If you will have him," she nodded back. "Argos and I have travelled across the entire Star before it had been sundered. My oldest and most faithful friend… but he had been trapped on the moon for so long now… he must have been waiting for someone to play with him and take him travelling again. I think that he would like it very much if he were allowed to see more than just the empty landscape of the moon. Will you take good care of him for me?"

Claire looked up at her and nodded; gripping the whistle tightly to her.

"And for my second gift… will be… of sorts… a blessing," Venat added. "My Blessing of Light will remain with thee for the rest of thy life, as proof that I shall always be watching over thee… but I have another to give. Though not as magical as my Traveler's Ward."

Claire was confused for a moment until Venat gently brushed her bangs out of her face and placed a kiss upon her champion's forehead. "Mayhaps less a blessing and more of a wish… and a prayer… one where you find happiness now and all the remaining days of thy life."

She pulled back and looked long and hard at her, as if afraid that she would blink out of existence if she looked away this time.

"We will meet again in that land beyond all memory and dream," Venat promised. "Though I hope it will be between many long and happy years for you. But always remember this…"

She took Claire's hands in her own, holding them tightly. "That I shall ever be here with thee," she vowed. "That I may not be there by your side to celebrate your triumph… but my spirit will continue to live on here in the world I loved so much. In the summer rains to the spring breezes—to the autumn leaves and gentle snows… even to the moon above you through the dark night… I shall remain. And I will watch over you always my beloved daughter."

Claire gazed up at her with a smile and leaned in to hug her one last time, which Venat returned as the flowers beneath them began to glow with a golden radiance that Claire had come to understand as joy.

"Now then, I believe you have stayed long enough. It's time for you to wake. Your friends are starting to worry that you have not returned yet and it would be ever so rude to keep them waiting much longer," she told her softly. "Whatever you choose to do or where so ever you go, know that my love for you will ever be with you. Blessings and joy be upon you for the rest of thy life."

She drew back as everything else slowly started to fade about them. The Elpis flowers beneath them, the soft breeze that seemed to gently kiss her skin… to even the blue sky above them… all went dark until only Venat remained in front of her.

"Before we do part ways… I have but one request," Venat said to her softly. "All I ask is for you to answer me that one question—one that I had been thinking of since that day we parted ways in Elpis. I believe I received a part of that answer during our battle but I wish to hear it from thy own lips." She shut her eyes for only the briefest of seconds before she opened them again to gaze directly into her soul.

"Has your journey been good?" she asked. "Has it been worthwhile?"

Claire did not move a muscle as the question sank in and she shut her eyes as she thought of all that she had been through. Thought of all the places she had seen, the battles she had waged, the people that she loved and lost along the way. Those that caused her pain and turned her world upside down…? For by doing so opened up her eyes to so much more than she ever thought possible. Those who cheered her on from the sides while offering support… or occasionally angering her to the point that she wanted to scream out…?

She wouldn't have traded any of it.

This was a story that she knew she would never forget. Not one day of this tale… this she knew. She would always remember her first journey across this amazing world.

She raised her head and her smiled seemed to answer Venat's question. She then nodded once as Venat beamed back.

"Yes," Claire answered. "Yes, it was. And I will treasure every second of it. I remember all my joys, triumphs, hardships and memories all mixed together and I am grateful for every second. All the friends found, and lost, all the joy and the sorrow, every ilm of every land of every world, I wouldn't trade it for anything."

She pulled back as everything else seemed to continue to flicker and fade.

"Then be free," Venat told her. "For you are free. Free to choose your path as you have done until now. It was what lead us this far…"

Venat just gave her one last smile before she was bathed in a brilliant and oh-so-familiar light… and when Claire next blinked… everything was gone.

She blinked again and she opened her eyes to see a night sky splattered with stars as well as an unnatural quiet. She sat up, staring around her in surprise to see that she had returned to the watchtower of Mare Lamentorum and she rubbed her eyes.

She remembered… she laid down to rest her eyes and then… she fell asleep.

She had a dream with Venat.

It was as if a great weight had been lifted off her soul now… she felt better… lighter… almost… liberating. But had that all just been a dream? Or had her longing to speak with Venat one last time just been playing tricks on her?

She couldn't help but ponder that until she realized that there was something clenched in her closed fist and she opened it up to stare at it before a sad smile appeared. She stared at the little whistle as she felt both joy and sorrow… but more importantly, she didn't feel alone anymore.

As she got back to her feet, she looked up to the beautiful blue Star above her and she could see the familiar continents. She had long since memorized her map and recognized the shapes… at least… for some of them. There were others that she did not recognize and her heart suddenly blazed with a desire to learn more. Emet-Selch's final words echoed in her mind once more and she was curious to see such places first hand.

She could only imagine the dissatisfied tittering he would give her should she dare do less than see all that he described and she was never one to disappoint.

She had many sins—as well as regrets—but she would not allow them to hold her in chains. One day her soul will return to the star… to meet with Venat and everyone else that she had lost on her journeys once more. And when that day came, they would share many more stories together… at, least until a day would come when they be reborn. But that day was far off and she had no intentions of letting it come so soon.

She looked to the whistle and grinned as she blew it—where she immediately saw the form of a beautiful dog with long hair shining like gold making a beeline straight for her from across the lunar surface.

*Four Moons Later*

"You know? I'm thinking you're becoming spoiled, because this is getting out of hand," Claire stated as she watched Argos roll happily about in the snows.

Time ever moves forward, as Claire knew all too well. On this particular day, her steps led her to the snows of Garlemald as she finished making repairs to both her weapon and her gear after a few rounds of slaying monsters.

As she finished stitching up a tear in her robes, she looked upwards to admire a rare clear sky above these lands. It was hard to believe that it had already been four moons since the Scions disbanded.

After Claire awoke on the moon, she returned to Sharlayan where her friends were waiting for her at the door as if she were a young daughter who was caught sneaking back home after being told not to go out.

She hadn't told anyone of her vision of Venat—though it quickly became apparent to them that something had happened to her while she was gone that whole day. For when she returned, it was with a happy Argos by her side. Alisaie had especially been taken aback by the glittering dog and went running over to pet him… before realizing how she was cooing over him and tried to pass it off with a more dignified answer of, "Nice dog."

Argos happily shook his tail at the attention as Y'sthola, Thancred, and Urianger—the only other ones who knew of Argos—just stared at her.

"I'm starting to think that I should travel with you instead," Thancred told her in awe. "You always seem to have the most interesting things happen when you disappear on us. Do we even…?"

"No, nothing happened," she lied brightly.

Thankfully, they hadn't pushed her to answer but they did notice the change in her after that day. It was as if she were feeling lighter… she smiled and laughed a lot easier than she had been able to do before. She had become, seemingly overnight, as bright as a ray of sunshine.

Claire felt it too… having that chance to really voice what she had been feeling to Venat had done her a world of good. For not only did she feel that she got to say the words that she so desperately had been wanting to say, to be forgiven for her own mistakes… but also to hear the words she needed to know.

And so now… while the idea of such an unknown future still worried her, she looked to it with a much brighter view.

It was only a few days after she returned from the moon to her friends—where the scolding she got for being gone for so long almost made her regret leaving—her wounds were deemed fully healed at long last. Immediately after that, they returned to Eorzea where F'lhamin was waiting for them at the Rising Stones. As soon as she saw them enter, the woman burst into tears and even ran up to hug Claire, thanking her over and over again.

It was actually quite the emotional time for everyone and when all members of the Scions gathered together in the hall, that was when Y'shtola proclaimed the idea of disbanding. The reactions were mixed… though most seemed shocked at this sudden declaration and were voicing their opposition to it until they were able to put in their explanations.

After everyone calmed down and had their concerns reassured, it was clear that everyone was at least giving it some serious thought. Especially after Thancred promised that should any other threats rise up in place of the primals, then they would immediately call everyone back to handle it.

"Though, hopefully not for a fair while," Riol laughed as everyone was given a chance to voice their concerns. "No offense to any of you sorry lot but I think we could all use a vacation after this."

Laughter rang out after that and after a little more debating, in the end everyone agreed that it was for the best that the Scions step out of the limelight for a time. When Claire voiced her own support of the idea, she could see that there was surprise in their faces, having expected her to be more resistant to the idea.

"Just promise me that if any of you are in over your heads with problems, you will contact me?" Claire asked as they all looked at each other, more than a little bewildered by her nonchalant attitude.

Anyway, thanks to Riol's network, word quickly got out what they were planning and they were met with mixed emotions on all sides. The nation leaders all said that they understood and with as much as the Scions have given to them over the years, they respect their decision, though there was more than a little bit of relief in their faces when they discovered that should any other threats spring up, they could still contact them for counsel.

It took another few weeks for all loose threads to be tied up and finish the official preparations, but the day had come when they were now just finding excuses to stick around the Rising Stones. Tataru, alone, decided she would keep things up and running at their old headquarters—making sure that everything was cared for in their absence—while also working on building up her new empire. She had already turned the Waking Sands into a storage/warehouse for her wares and was just rubbing her hands together with glee at the thought of so many designs that were in her head and how excited she was to watch the gil come rolling in.

Truly a force of nature to be reckoned with.

As for the others: most of the other members of the Scions had decided to travel a little more, visiting home while honing their skills should the people have need of them.

Estinien had already returned to Raz-at-Hans to fulfill whatever request that Vrtra wished to ask him. From what she heard, Estinien was helping those who were still suffering from the aftermath of the Final Days in a kind of relief effort as he went about Thavnair to take care of any other few blasphemies that may have survived.

Thancred and Urianger were off travelling—from what she heard across all of Ilsabard—and seemed to be faring well for themselves. Y'shtola seemed to be spending a great deal of time in the Hinterlands exploring the Great Gubal Library for her research to find a way to travel to other shards. G'raha and Krile returned to Sharlayan to begin work on rebuilding the Students of Baldesion and with their original goal to learn more of Hydaelyn and the truth of this star having been pretty much fulfilled… it seems that they were looking forward to helping to perverse the peace that they worked so hard to obtain from here.

Leaving the twins to return to Garlemald to help with the relief effort here and help with both the formation of a new government for the Garleans and the curing of the remaining tempered. A small amount of stability seems to be settling in, and for the time being former senate members who survived had formed a temporary governing body until they could figure out where best to proceed next. From what Claire heard, most Garleans like Jullus were more optimistic about the future and were willing to try and rebuild Garlemald though they know that it will be a long and difficult road ahead of them. Others, were welcomed to Sharalyan as new citizens thanks to Fourchenalt… and even a small number have decided to venture forth to the moon with the Loporitts to begin new lives there.

It seemed to be a good option, especially since word has gotten out that the Tower of Babil still has a working transporter to take them to the moon. If Garlemald hoped to rebuild, then it would be a good chance to reach out to other peoples of the world and slowly build up a relationship of brothers and sisters of this star rather than conquerors.

As for the Warrior of Light…?

Since the Scions separated, she had been wandering about looking for things to do. While having made a full recovery from her wounds, she worked on regaining her strength and practiced with her weapons to make sure she was in full fighting form once again. It took a while, but she was fighting fit once again and even was able to teach herself some new moves during her training. During which, she even found time to be able to learn a couple more weapons such as her new scythe and wondered if she could surprise Alphinaud if she were to show off her own Sage's crystal?

With studying up on all this, she had also assisted the nation leaders with their own infestation of the remaining blasphemies that roamed the lands. At this point, it looked like all the major threats involving the blasphemies were dealt with; with only a few stragglers remaining behind. She had also found ways to help out in Sharlayan at the Studium with several facets—thus accidently giving rise to a whole new field of study of exploring the cosmos someday… funny how that worked out. She also started getting back to working out at the Wolves Den as she would test herself off against other adventurers—where she learned that there were new battle arenas and she was eager to test them out.

And as of now, had finished making several areas safer by killing swarms of monsters. She recently earned a great number of bicolor gemstones from this task after her little rampage across Garldemald to rid it of as many monsters as possible while on the hunt for these gemstones.

All in all, it was as if all the weight of the world had been lifted off her shoulders and she was able to breathe properly for the first time in years. If she wanted to lay back in a field and take a nap or just go strolling through the markets to do some shopping then she could do so without feeling guilty. It was the most wonderful feeling.

It was after she finished counting out the gemstones did Argos appear and began his crazy antics again. Argos seemed to be doing his best to make up for the many years he spent on the moon by running through muddy puddles, rolling in the dirt, playing in rivers and streams… and now it seemed that he had fallen in love with the snow for he would be running wildly about in the deep powder after Claire had just finished brushing out his fur.

"After you had been whining at me to brush you all day you go and do this?" Claire asked as he came running back to her happily with his fur all tangled and wet. Since early this morning, he had come to her with his brush in his mouth and been following after her until she sat down and agreed to brush him out and braid his long hair.

By the time that she was done, he went bounding off to play… only for him to come back looking like she hadn't bothered to brush him at all.

"Can't you at least wait to play first and then we just make you pretty at the end of the day?" she asked as he just wagged his tail; all happy days for him as he sat there patiently with his brush back in his mouth.

As Claire went back to work brushing him out she heard a slight twitter and she glanced up to see a familiar blue bird with a twin tail show up out of the clouds. The bird fluttered about happily until Claire could see that she had something in her tiny beak, so she reached up a hand as the bird glided over the snows to land happily on her arms.

"What do you have here, Meteion?" she asked her gently as she took what looked to be a pink ribbon from her. It wasn't uncommon for Meteion to fly off and explore everything from the skies only to come back with a pretty stone or something just to show it off to her.

This time she took the ribbon and looked over the slightly torn piece of cloth as Meteion tugged playfully at a lock of her own hair and Claire understood.

"Yes, yes… you're right, it's the same shade as my hair," she told her as Meteion let out a happy chirp.

She just chuckled at that before she looked back down at the cloth and realized that it did remind her of something else that was pink. She suddenly had an image of Tataru in her mind's eye and she suddenly grew curious to know how the Scion's former secretary-turned-business woman was fairing on her own ventures these days.

"You know, it's been awhile since we visited Mor Dhona," she called to her companions.

At that, she heard nary a complaint from the starbird, her chocobos, or with the snow-filled Argos as she got them ready to go.

Visiting with Tataru was a nice change.

Though she didn't come out and say it, Claire suspected that Tataru was feeling a little lonely while being here on her own. At least, judging from how happy Tataru was when she showed up and insisted on having her stay for some tea and sweets.

It was also here that she had suggested a fun idea for where Claire travels would take her to next… Thavnair. Claire had admittedly paid a few visits there over these last few moons but was never able to stay for too long as she continued on her own training to recover. Now that things have settled down, no threats of the end of the world or of monsters springing up and attacking innocent people included… she decided that maybe now was a good time for her to visit as a tourist instead of a hired 'hero'.

Upon seeing how excited she was, Tataru then demanded that she wait before she finished a parting gift. She just wanted to make a few finishing touching to some new travelling gear for her before she headed off.

(Though a few finishing touches suddenly needed a few more pockets… some waterproofing-lining… the works)

By the time that she felt that she was finished, it had already been half a day and Claire was poked awake after having fallen asleep right there in her chair. Still, the extra time was worth it as Tataru took her to the Diamond Forge to get a good look at her latest masterpiece.

Once more, Claire was amazed by the hard work and care that went into her pieces and she stood there admiring Tataru's handiwork for a time before she was itching to try it on. Though as she was getting ready to do so, Tataru seemed to hesitate.

"By the way… there is something else I wanted to show you," Tataru stated, suddenly her cheer became a little more nervous.

Claire looked down from her new clothes and saw that Tataru had pulled out a small box which held two pieces of jewelry inside. Claire bent over to get a better look and saw that there were two pieces of crystal laying upon the velveteen lining. One was a single ear cuff with a tiny crystal on a thin, small chain… and the other was a necklace of a thick cord tied around a larger piece of crystal. Though different sizes and shapes, it was clear that the two pieces were cut from the same stone.

As her eyes trailed over the pieces, she carefully took the box and examined them closer—watching how the dim light caught in their facets. There was something aching familiar about these pieces of crystal but she wasn't sure what it was.

"These are beautiful, Tataru. I had no idea you were working with jewelry as well," Claire said happily. She had known about the little touches that she would add upon the Scion's clothes but she believed this was the first time that she had actually seen her make a piece of jewelry. But she truly meant that she loved them despite their rather simple designs.

"Oh, I've recently been adding to my list of skills," Tataru said, still looking slightly nervous for some reason as she watched her stare at the larger of the two shards, spinning the stone in her hand as she watched how the light reflected off its surface. "I'm from Ul'dah after all and so I know a few people at the Goldsmith's guild and decided to put what I knew from there into practice. Not that I did much with these. I chose to keep it simple and not to really… ah… change them. But ah… I was wondering how you felt about them?"

"Are they for me?" Claire asked curiously. She could feel a slight nagging at the back of her mind on where she tried to picture where she had seen crystal like this before. They were just tiny slivers and doubted that not even for the most basic of crafts could be made from using them. Stranger still, there didn't seem to be a specific element tied to them…?

"Y-Yes… that is, if you want them," Tataru said. "I mean, I would understand completely if you wouldn't, I just… maybe this was a bad idea…?"

"Whatever for?" Claire asked, now wondering what this was about and Tataru sulked slightly as if she wondered what she should say.

After playing around with the sleeves of her coat, she finally confessed, "Those pieces are what's left from the Mothercrystal."

Claire stared at her before quickly looking back to the jewelry and suddenly understanding why she recognized them.

"While you were still recovering from your last battle, some of the Scions went back to the Aetherial Sea to check on the Mothercrystal when they learned that Zenos had gorged himself on its aether," Tataru explained hesitantly. "They… they wanted to see if there was any left… and if there was anything they should be worried about. But when they got there… they claim that there wasn't a trace of the crystal anywhere. Apparently, when they arrived at the same place where you all battled with Hydaelyn before… all they found were these shards."

The crystals seemed to sparkle dully in the dim light as she said that as Claire looked sadly down at them as she cast her mind back to that enormous mountain of crystal… like a brilliant diamond in the aetherial sea. Were these tiny shards truly all that were left from that beautiful sight?

"Y'shtola examined them both," Tataru went on sadly. "They only have the tiniest amount of aether left in them—just enough to keep them from fading away. They're not even fit to be used for the simplest of crafting spells or in any kind of spell craft. To be made into jewelry was the only plausible use for them. Their lack of aether is probably the reason why they don't look exactly like how the Mothercrystal looked before? At least, that was how Y'shtola described them. It seems that we used up most of it when powering up the Ragnarok… and whatever else was left was completely absorbed by Zenos."

They both stared down at the little box and it seemed incredible to think that it was truly gone. After all this…?

"I asked the Scions if I could have them and I thought… that you… well, you might like them?" Tataru croaked slowly. "I-I mean, if you rather not, then I completely understand. I just thought… well…? I don't know what I was thinking but…?"

"No, it's alright," Claire said as she opened her eyes and smiled brightly down at Tataru, truly touched that she would go through so much trouble for her sake. "I love them. Give me just a moment."

Without giving Tataru a chance to speak again, she quickly took the pieces as well as her new clothes and disappeared into the back to change. The Diamond Forge did have a small changing room with a full length mirror for customers to try out their orders before leaving.

She locked the door for a bit of privacy before she stripped down to her underclothes before she caught herself in the mirror. She remembered the rather pale, naïve girl she used to be when she left home… with no clue to how big this world truly was. Thinking back to that girl and the woman who stood here now, she almost didn't recognize herself. She raised up her hand and touched the glass as she continued to look at herself, trying to find a trace of that same girl that she used to be.

Her skin was touched by the sun and she could see every scar and blemish that she had earned. She could recall each battle that lead her up to this point… and her fingers tracing the slightly red scar that stretched across her chest.

A voice suddenly entered her head from a memory that felt like a lifetime ago: "But there is more to you than that. You know this to be true. As surely as you know the thrill of pushing your body and soul to their limits. Of confronting ever-mightier foes, dancing ever closer to the precipice, wondering this will be the one to finally, finally… fill the void. Such pleasures, you seek for their own sake, and no other reason. Is this not so… adventurer?"

She closed her eyes as her mind shifted back along her journey. She still didn't know what to think of him… even after all this. But she had to admit that he was right about one thing. Her eyes opened and when she looked at them, she saw a spark of something new there… something… exciting.

She smiled as she pulled on her new travelling gear, tucking everything else back into her bag and shook out her long hair from its braid so that it flowed down her back once again. That's right… this was the style she had when she first set off from home, didn't she?

She chuckled at that as she looked to the box where the pieces of the Mothercrystal seemed to sparkle and she ran her fingers over their smooth surfaces before putting them on. When she did, it was a little surprising when she felt their light weight against her skin. They felt… warm.

Tataru had been overjoyed to see her stepping out in her own work once more and waved her off with a beaming smile, telling her to take care of herself and to have a safe journey. Claire waved her off until she stepped outside into the warm sunshine and a clear blue sky directly above her with only a tiny scattering of fluffy clouds. She stretched out, enjoying the fresh air before she spotted a familiar blue bird fluttering over from a nearby building and landed upon her shoulder.

"Hello Meteion," she said kindly to the little bird as she chirped excitedly—as if asking where they were heading to next.

She stroked her feathers with a gentle finger as she nuzzled against her cheek affectionately.

"We will be heading out as soon as we grab the others," Claire reassured her. "I'll get Huginn and Muninn from the stables if you can hunt down Argos for me, alright? I have a new destination in mind that I think that you are all gonna love. What would you say to heading out east from here to Thavnair?"

Meteion chirped happily at that and took off as Claire watched her soar off to find Argos, who seemed to have wandered off to explore the area around here. She knew she could use the whistle to call him back to her side, but Meteion seemed to enjoy being able to lend what help she could and she felt no need to try and put a stop to it.

She smiled as she watched the bird soar off as her heart began to beat a little harder and faster at the thought of what else could be waiting beyond her beloved horizon. Before heading off to collect her chocobos, she decided to make a quick stop and went to the markets.

"Now, there's a familiar face," said the clerk as she smiled and handed over the package to her, "It just came in and I was holding onto it for you. You certainly seem to go through these things rather quickly, don't you dear?"

"Oh, a few," Claire smiled mysteriously as she pulled the brand new travelling journal out of the bag and looked over it. It was in perfect condition, with smooth leather and pages so crisp and clean that when she opened it to look at the blank space inside she heard the spine crack.

She paid for her new journal and tucked it away safely into the bag at her side. She didn't know when she would next return to Mor Dhona, or where her little trip to Thavnair will lead her to next… but there was one thing that she knew for sure.

She was an adventurer at heart. A feeling so deeply engraved into her soul that even should she die and be reborn countless more times… that part of her will never leave.

Nor did she ever want it to.

"Well, mother…" she said to herself, running her thumb over the crystal around her neck, "Ready to see what else life has to throw at us?"

Perhaps it was just her imagination, but she could have sworn she heard a gentle hum of a lullaby in her ear as her crystals seemed to glow a tiny bit brighter. Claire just laughed before racing over to the stables, her heart so full of excitement over a new adventure that she felt that she could sprout wings and take off at that very moment.

She made it down the hill towards the stables while people were gathering around at the sight of a bright blue starbird perched upon the head of a dog with fur that glittered like sunlight—both lit up with happiness when they saw her smiling.

To Be Continued…?

(Whether we like it or not, I think that Venat is our mom. She might beat our ass when we deserve it, but she'll also get us that puppy we always wanted. The reason she lets us get away with so much, is because we very definitely take after her. But otherwise, thank you all so much for joining me on this little adventure and I hope that you enjoyed it. I remember seeing the scene where we say goodbye to Hydaelyn and I just kept thinking to myself that I wanted to see Claire run up and give her a hug, wipe away her tears, something… I just felt a little unsatisfied with that. Not that it was a bad ending, I just feel that they could've given us a little more if it makes sense. And when I saw players running around with an Argos mount, I was so happy that we would get a scene like that, where we would have a near death experience or something as we speak to Venat one last time. She thanks us for all we did and gives us the whistle and asks that we take care of Argos for her. I was so disappointed that we did not get that so I am remedying that right here. Claire is finally free, finally able to breathe properly and let go of so much of the weight she was carrying around. She knows that she's not alone, and I could completely see Venat giving her a kind of 'blessing' in the form of a prayer that her daughter, and all of her children for that matter, continue forward with happiness filled lives. Well, the curtains fall on one tale, but they rise again for another. Thank you all again for joining me and I hope that the ending was worth it all. I swear though, I didn't plan it out, it just that the timing was perfect for this final chapter to be posted. So… Happy Mother's Day!)