I'm having such a great time writing this! I actually broke this chapter into two pieces, since it was getting really long. So the next chapter is actually almost finished!

Thanks to everyone who is reading and enjoying my story. I hope you like reading it as much as I like writing it.

When Martel was alive, her favorite thing to call Yuan was her "silver-tongued devil." She claimed he could talk his way out of any trouble he came across.

As he knocked on the door to Pronyma's quarters, he hoped he still had that talent.

"Lord Yuan?" The woman opened her door, surprised to see him there. "What are you doing here?"

"Pronyma. Did you collect all the aionis yet?"

"Hmm? Oh, yes, I have." She hesitated, then said, "Lord Yuan. I may need your assistance, as long as you're here." She stood back so that he could step inside. As she closed the door behind him, he glanced around.

He didn't know much about Pronyma, besides her love of Yggdrasill and her hatred of Kratos. And, apparently, her room wasn't going to tell him anything, either. There were no personal affects, no trinkets or tokens of affection, no photos of friends or family. Everything in her room was the blank, boilerplate furnishings that all rooms in Welgaia had. The only thing different was a white container of shimmering ore on her desk. Aionis.

So he was in luck; she hadn't destroyed it yet. "What you need help with?" he asked.

She gestured to the box on her desk. "I did collect the aionis. And I was prepared to destroy it. But…" She hesitated, then said, "I can't do it."

Yuan raised an eyebrow. "Why not? Because you think Lord Yggdrasill will need it later on?"

"No, I mean, I physically cannot do it." She picked a piece of aionis up and fiddled with it. "I have tried everything. None of my magic can touch it. I cannot figure out how to destroy it with physical means, either."

Of course, he thought, relief flooding him. She wouldn't know how to destroy it, considering she would have no need to. "Hmm. Did you ask Yggdrasill?"

Pronyma swallowed and averted her eyes. "Ah, well, he's been very…distracted lately. I'm sure he has more important matters to attend to."

Ah. She didn't want him to know she couldn't do it. "Well," he said slowly, "you aren't wrong. Though, destroying the aionis is critical." He folded his arms and shook his head. "If the Chosen's group were to get ahold of it…or, heaven forbid, Kratos himself..."

Pronyma inhaled sharply. "Oh…I'd best ask Lord Yggdrasill what I should do."

Yuan reached out and took the aionis from her hand. "Huh…well, you're right, Yggdrasill probably won't be too happy…not that he ever really is nowadays," he added. Pronyma nodded anxiously. "Hmm…you know what? I'll take care of it. You focus on finding the Chosen right now."

"Of course. I owe you my deepest gratitude, Lord Yuan." She hesitated as he picked up the container of aionis. "And…I will be certain to tell Lord Yggdrasil of my failure."

"Don't worry about it," Yuan reassured her as he headed out the door. "Nobody needs to know."

The journey to Sybak was a relatively uneventful one. Kratos and Zelos were pretending not to know each other, which worked out perfectly for the both of them. Genis was trying to strike up a conversation with Presea, who was staring blankly ahead. Raine was asking Zelos questions, mostly about what he knew of Cruxis Crystals and Tethe'alla, while he used the opportunity to flirt with her. Colette was walking beside Lloyd, blank stare on her face and marching like a puppet.

Kratos and Lloyd were at the back of group. Kratos wanted to stay as far away from Zelos as possible—for several reasons, one of which was to avoid any sort of suspicion; another was to avoid anything that would annoy him greatly. And Zelos was certainly on the top of that list right now. By the time the group reached the end of the bridge, he'd given a ridiculous nickname to each of the girls while completely ignoring the three males of the group.

"Hey, Kratos?" Lloyd glanced out over the sparkling water, where a few large ships were floating. Kratos grunted in acknowledgement. "I know this is a weird question, but…can you still train me?"

Kratos must've looked surprised, because Lloyd continued, "I learned a lot from you. And if I want to protect Colette…" He glanced over at his friend. "Well, I have to become stronger. No…I want to become stronger."

"If that's what you want, I'll continue training you," Kratos said smoothly. "Though I don't intend to stay with your group for much longer. I have to head for…well, I have something I must do."

Lloyd frowned. "You keep saying that."

"…" Kratos didn't reply, so Lloyd just shrugged.

"Whatever. As long as you're here, I'll take your help. Hey, can you show me how to do some of those moves you used at the Tower of Salvation? They were really cool."

"Which ones?"

Lloyd grinned. "Like, that one where you twirl in the air. The spiral slash." He tried to mimic it, spinning in a circle.

"Light Spear," Kratos said automatically. Lloyd nodded. "Hmm. I'm not sure that one will work. It's designed for one-handed swords, you see, with your shield protecting you. It might be hard to modify for a twin sword approach."

"But can we try?" Lloyd begged. "I really want to learn that."

"If you wanna learn some swordsmanship, look no further!" Zelos had given up on seducing Raine and wondered back. He leaned casually on Lloyd's shoulder. "I'm the best swordsman in Tethe'alla. Zelos the Great Swordsman, they call me!"

"More like Zelos the Great Pain in the Neck," Genis grumbled. Zelos shot him a glare.

"You know, you're kind of a bratty kid." Zelos shrugged and moved away from Lloyd. "Whatever. If you're going to turn down the chance to get stronger, learn a few new techniques, that's your choice."

Lloyd's eyes flickered to Colette. "Wait a minute. Zelos." The Chosen raised his eyebrow and made a noise in his throat. "If it's a serious offer…I'll train with you, too."

"Alright!" Zelos clapped his hand together cheerfully. "Twice as much fun. So, old timer, you and me will teach the kid, huh?"

"Hmph. If that's what you want, Lloyd, you can learn from both of us. It would be foolish to turn away knowledge and assistance."

"Then we're golden! Oh, Professor!" Zelos wondered away, his eyes back on Raine. "Did you hear that? I'll be Lloyd's new sword teacher! I think this makes us co-workers! And, uh, you know all the stereotypes about co-workers…"

Lloyd sighed and hung his head. "Are we there yet?"

"So this is aionis." Botta held a large, rough chunk of rock up in his hand. "Incredible. And this can allow humans to use magic?"

Yuan nodded. "Kratos used this during the Ancient War, that's why he can use magic. If we manage it, any human can use the Eternal Sword. We just need to get Kratos to release the seal around Origin."

"I thought you were planning on wielding the Eternal Sword." Botta raised an eyebrow. "You don't need a ring of the pact. You're a half-elf."

"…I always have a plan B, Botta." Yuan sighed and leaned against his desk. "Let's be honest: it's a very likely possibility that I won't live to see Cruxis be taken down."

"I see. If you are killed—by Kratos or Yggdrasill himself—someone else must do it." He paused, then asked, "Who did you have in mind?"

"My original back up plan was actually Zelos Wilder," Yuan admitted. Botta's face twitched. "I know what you're thinking."

"Do you truly think that would work? He's not the most trustworthy person."

Yuan snorted. "Well…that's putting it mildly. But he was the only person I thought would be strong enough to wield it, with his Cruxis Crystal." As Botta set the aionis back in the container, Yuan rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "But…I'm actually starting to think that…"

"…?" Botta watched him as he trailed off. "Who else would be able to handle it?"

"Lloyd." Yuan's voice was firm, his eyes sharp and intent. "He has Anna's Exsphere, the only successful Angelus Project. He's Kratos' son, not to mention he's now been trained by Kratos, so he has the sword skills. And he is most certainly willing to do anything to save the worlds."

"Hmm." Botta folded his arms. "He may be willing to cooperate with us. Though, I doubt he would be so amenable after we kill Kratos."

Yuan shrugged. "Who knows. We have nothing to lose, though."

"That's right. We must put our effort towards the most likely outcome." Botta leaned against the desk next to Yuan. "And pray it works."

"You can waste your time praying," Yuan told him with a wry smile. "I have work to do."

"So this is the Imperial Research Academy…" Raine had a curious look on her face as she looked around the spacious entryway, as if she were trying to recall something. "Interesting."

"Chosen One!" A researcher shuffled forward eagerly to greet them. "We got word from Meltokio. Please come this way."

The group was herded into a small room cluttered with books and papers. The researcher launched into an explanation about Cruxis Crystals and Exspheres. Kratos found himself distracted, his mind wondering as he tuned out the prattling researcher.

His eyes caught a familiar broken down machine in the corner. It was old, but had been kept in good condition, considering its age. It hadn't rusted, though it had been damaged. He blinked at it, mentally working the pieces back together to repair it. It would probably take hours, but…

He could do it.

"So, she needs a Key Crest?"

He snapped back to reality at the sound of Lloyd's voice. He refocused as the researcher nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, a key crest would allow her to fully control the Cruxis Crystal."

"I wonder where we can find one…" Raine murmured. "We'd better ask around."

"You might check with some of the merchants," the researcher suggested. "Unfortunately, there aren't any in our possession."

As they started to leave, Kratos stopped. "What is that machine?" he asked, even though he knew the answer full well.

"Hmm? Oh, that's a machine that rearranges atoms. It was used in the Ancient War to strengthen certain materials. Have you ever heard of adamantite?" Kratos nodded. Behind him, Raine and—to his surprise—Lloyd both looked interested. "That's what was used to make it. Unfortunately, no one has been able to fix it. It's been here since the Academy was founded, but it's still damaged."

"Interesting." Kratos nodded in thanks as he turned away.

"Adamanatite?" Lloyd glanced back at the machine. "Is that what makes it?"

"You've heard of it?" Genis asked incredulously. Lloyd glared at him.

"Of course I have. It's scrap diamond. Dwarves use it to sharpen tools." He rubbed the back of his head. "I've never seen it, but…it's supposed to be really cool!"

"It no longer exists," Raine explained. "That machine back there is a product of magitechnology; I doubt anyone has the knowledge anymore to work it."

"Still, it would be really neat if someone ever fixed it. Dad told me that he's only seen it once, when he was kid. His dad used to use it to polish tools."

"Why were you asking about that machine, golden oldie?" Zelos gave him a sly grin as they left the Academy. "Longing for the days of your childhood?"

Kratos debated snapping Zelos' neck. Instead, he replied, "I was simply curious."

"It looked like Desian stuff," Lloyd remarked. Both Kratos and Raine turned to him in surprise. "W-what?"

"Lloyd," Raine said proudly. "That's a very good observation, especially coming from you. You have the makings of a true researcher! Tell me, have you ever considered a career in archeology?"

"Ahhh…" Lloyd quickly turned towards the merchants in the square, changing the subject. "Let's see if anyone has a Key Crest!"

Zelos was still watching Kratos as they reached the shops. "Just curious, huh?" he whispered. Kratos glared at him. "Yeah. I'll bet."

The group eventually found themselves at a junk seller, with half-broken objects piled around him. Lloyd's sharp eye caught a Key Crest, one that was worn and chipped, but good enough. Zelos, in his typical flashy and dramatic manner, managed to get them the Key Crest without any trouble or money.

"Not bad, Zelos. Thanks." Lloyd palmed the Key Crest and looked it over. "The charms are worn off, but it's still in pretty good condition. I can borrow a lab and fix it." He held the Key Crest up. "Don't worry, Colette, you'll be back before you know it!"

The group dispersed when they got to the Imperial Research Academy. Lloyd immediately started on the Key Crest, sitting in the cluttered room and focusing on the intricate work. Raine went to listen to a lecture on physics, while Zelos wondered around chatting with quiet, shy women. Presea didn't really do much of anything—she and Colette stood around, neither having the motivation to go anywhere. Genis, his voice stuttering, invited the girl to the cafeteria. She simply said, "Understood," and followed him.

Leaving Kratos with Colette.

It was strange: Kratos spent most of his life in Derris-Kharlan, surrounded by angels just like her. Yet, when he was face-to-face with someone who knew—someone who he had a fondness for, with a charming smile and a sweet, genuine kindness—he felt guilt settle on his chest.

"Come with me," he sighed. She didn't respond—not that he expected her to—but she followed him back to the room where Lloyd was.

"Hmm?" Lloyd glanced up as they entered the room. His tools were scattered around the desk. He had taken his jacket off and thrown it on the floor. "Oh. Hey, guys. What's up?"

"I didn't feel comfortable leaving the Chosen alone," Kratos explained. "I wanted to check something…if it's a bother, we can leave you alone."

"No…no, it's fine." Lloyd watched as Kratos went to the corner where the old machine was and leaned down. "What are you doing?"

"I wanted to take a look at this machine," Kratos said. He pried open the cover and glanced inside at the gears and broken parts. "I think I may be able to fix it."

"R-really?" Lloyd set his tool down, interested. "Man, you're good at everything, aren't you? Swordsmanship, healing, machines…Is there anything you can't do?"

"Heh. I've…had an eclectic life." He reached into the machine and fished out a snapped-in-half gear. "My wife used to say that I was a jack of all trades, but a master of none."

"…" Lloyd turned back to the desk and the Key Crest. "I still can't believe you were married."

"Is it really so strange?" he asked. He took a page out of Lloyd's book and took his cape off, freeing his arms to work on the machine. Unlike his son, he carefully hung his on a chair. "I am not heartless."

There was the sound of scraping metal as Lloyd started sharpening his tools. "Yeah, I know that, but you never talked about her."

"…" Kratos didn't really know what to say to that, and Lloyd didn't continue the conversation. While his son went back to his work, he started taking out the broken parts of the machine and sorting through them.

The pair fell into a comfortable silence. In the rhythm of work, it was almost…peaceful. The sound of clanking tools, metal against metal, creaking and squeaking. Several hours passed, until eventually Kratos sighed in satisfaction.

All he would need was some diamond to test it with…

There was a small crash behind him. When he glanced back, slightly alarmed, Lloyd had his head in his hands. "Lloyd? Are you alright?"

"…I can't do it," he whispered. Kratos stood up and went to the desk. It looked like Lloyd had thrown the Key Crest and his carving knife across the desk and onto the floor. With his head in his hands, gripping his hair tightly, he suddenly looked much older.

"I just…I don't think I can do it. The charms aren't doing anything, I'm not carving them right!" He slammed his fist on the table in frustration. "It's supposed to glow when the charms are complete. But they just…they won't!"

"Lloyd. I think you need to take a break." Kratos hesitated, then put his hand on Lloyd's shoulder. "It's nearly dinner time. Why don't we go get something to eat?"

"No…no, I need to finish it…" He pulled his head up. He looked stressed and Kratos frowned. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to worry you."

"Heh. You sound like the Chosen now."

Lloyd glanced at Colette and swallowed. "…I just want her back." His voice cracked and he started blinking back tears. Kratos felt the urge to wrap his arms around his son and comfort him.

"Lloyd, you need to go get something to eat and get some sleep." Kratos voice was gentle, but firm. "It's been a long day, you've been working for several hours now. It's nearly…what, eight o'clock? You can come back to the task later, it's not going anywhere."

Lloyd blinked. "Has it really been that long?"

"Yes. That's probably why you're so stressed." Kratos moved away from Lloyd and went back to the machine he had been working on. "I'm going to test this, then I'm going back to the inn. Leave your things here, we'll return tomorrow."

Kratos took one of the pieces of diamond that was lying among the tools. He turned away, giving Lloyd a few minutes to collect himself. He placed it in the machine and flicked it on. A few seconds later, and the diamond had turned into a clear crystal that shone, even in the dark.

Adamantite.

"…Ha. It works." He turned around and held out the diamond to Lloyd, who took it with a curious look on his face. "Now you and your father have both seen it."

"…" Lloyd stared at the adamantite in his palm. "Wow. That's amazing. I can't believe it."

"Keep it." Kratos pulled his cape on. "You'll get more use out of it, and besides, I can make more." He gestured towards the machine. "Now. Let's go. You look tired."

Lloyd was still staring at the diamond in his hand. "…Thanks, Kratos. I'll be along in a few minutes, I just want to clean up here." He smiled wanly at the older man, who glared sternly at him. "…I'll be over soon. I just need a minute."

"Very well. Do not stay long." Kratos gathered his things and started to lead the Chosen out the door. "We'll be waiting."

"Yeah." Lloyd watched them leave and sighed. "See you in a few."

Lloyd did not return that night.

Raine, Genis, Presea, and Zelos were at the inn when Kratos arrived. They waited for Lloyd, but eventually they each went to sleep. Zelos was the first to cave, flopping down on a bed and falling asleep immediately. Genis was next, drifting off to sleep in the chair he was sitting in. Raine sent him to bed and he obeyed without a fight. Finally, Raine sighed and said, "Kratos, I trust you will be awake?"

"Yes. I can go check on him." Kratos stood and grabbed his sword. "He may have fallen asleep. Or…he's still working."

"I hope not." Raine stifled a yawn. "Wake me if there are any issues."

Kratos went back to the Academy, but found that the door was closed and locked. There was no answer when he knocked, but he could hear the sounds of tools clinking together. He sighed, knowing it was a lost cause. He went back to the inn, defeated and trying not to worry about his son.

He waited all night, with the Chosen placidly standing in the corner. Presea was lying on a bed, but he knew she wasn't sleeping; her breathing was hardly audible.

Morning arrived, and still no Lloyd. It wasn't until they were all awake, preparing to go get him and drag him out, that the door opened.

"Lloyd! There you are!" Genis bounced nervously on the balls of his feet. "What happened?"

"We were worried." Raine started to chastise him, but Kratos swiftly shook his head. She forced her tone to be lighter. "You never came back last night."

Lloyd held his hand up. At first, Kratos thought he was going to punch something—the wall, perhaps, in anger—but instead, he was holding something up triumphantly. Something small and round. Something glowing. The teenager gave them a tired and haggard smile, but it was a smile nonetheless.

"It's finished."