Jullus will forever remember the day Quintus died.
The day when his Legatus has fallen while fighting his enemies with pride and defending his people. He died just like he lived, a hero to the end. A hero Jullus couldn't save. He wept and screamed over his lord's body, completely heartbroken and lost, still in disbelief that his mentor was gone forever. All the while, a nudging echoing voice in his head continued to echo, mocking him for keeping his belief that some people were untouchable even after all the chaos he endured…He should've known better. Now he had no one to look up to, no one to ask for advice, no one who he could trust to stand by his side without other desires. He was left alone to stand up for his Legion and people in a world that would see them annihilated.
He should've turned that day.
In truth, Jullus hardly knew what it was that saved him. Was it because after he saw so many people close to him die that his soul grew resilient? Because of Licinia's warm hand on his shoulder? Because of his unbridled feeling of duty that he maintained before Quintus? His order was clear, to save their people, whatever the cost. And this last order Jullus was eager to fulfill, not as a second-in-command, but as a friend and a fellow Garlean.
But first, they needed to see Quintus's journey come to an end. At the dawn of the next day, his body was brought to Tertium's entrance, put at the iron podium where all people of the station would get their chance to say goodbye. His body was to get burned, an uncommon method for Garlemald. Usually, their dead warriors would get buried or have bodies artificially dissolved, but there was no technology at the time for that, so a decision was made that a single pyre would suffice. Everyone was there, the young, the old, and even the wounded got carried by others to witness the processions.
Jullus stood in the crowd beside Licinia, looking to the snow beneath him in dreadful shame. He should be the one to take the lead, to speak for his people, yet the shock he felt from seeing Quintus die has left him powerless and meek, allowing Lucia and Nerva to use this to their advantage, or so Jullus thought. They stood in front of them, looking at the body of their fallen 'comrade' with shame and disappointment; Jullus would not call any of their emotions true grief. And all the others had no choice but to look up to them and desperately pray for those leaders to bring some hope into existence, which entailed nothing but despair.
Nerva looked at him with the sharpest eyes, Jullus was almost expecting to see him rejoicing in the death of his stern rival, yet he would lie were he to claim that this was the case. Nerva didn't talk much since learning of Quintus's demise, although he spared some of his efforts to help calm people down and ensure that they would be protected.
"And so your life is over, my old rival…" - Nerva sighed before raising his voice. "I will not pretend that Quintus and I were on the best terms, far from it. Even in the War of Succession, we stood on the opposite sides, with our soldiers cutting each others' throats without mercy." - Nerva didn't speak lightly of those days. Jullus could see him clench his fist. "He was there along with Varis and Regula as I was humiliated by my father's defeat…And now we crossed our blades once again in another war, the one which was far less forgiving to all of Garlemald. None were spared the loss…" - Jullus felt some disappointment and shame in Nerva's voice, yet after a brief pause, he threw them aside, continuing to speak with utmost confidence and pride. "But for all our differences of opinion on the matters of the throne, I am glad that in his battle, we fought on the same side. The side of the Garleans. His stubbornness and beliefs would not allow him to betray his loyalties, both to his Emperor and his people. To this end, did he fight relentlessly, even should it cost him his life. He was never one to stand aside while his people suffered; all those who stood before this pyre survived because of his selfless actions. And for this, I can give Quintus the respect he deserves." - Those words clearly weren't easy to speak for Nerva, nor did he have to say them. Was this an attempt to gain the trust of the people of the Ist by painting a picture of a sympathetic leader? Jullus didn't know, and at this point, he couldn't care about it. Lucia was the next to speak.
"I will not lie and pretend like I did not think that there was another way…A way of peace and, perhaps, even integration. But it is too late to think of this in the world we live in, too late to mourn the past. Quintus lived and died, holding onto his beliefs, never allowing his opponents to have as much as a slither of his own resolve. Time will be the judge of who was right and who was wrong in our endless arguments on Garlemald's future. All that matters now is that we lost a man of honor, the one that would never turn away from his brethren. He earned his rest." - Lucia concluded with kindness and respect in her voice, for once soft and relieved. Jullus looked down at the snow, unable to force himself to look forward.
"Does anyone else have any more words to say?" - Nerva spoke loudly, his voice echoing throughout the crowd. "Or should we send him off like the true warrior he is?"
"You…" - Jullus heard Licinia's quiet voice echoing behind him. "You should be the one to do it." - The soldier noticed a hopeful expression on the woman's face as it was clear that all of her hopes were stacked on him, their new leader. He promised her a family, after all, and a family he had to give.
"I have!" - Jullus spoke up, garnering Nerva's attention. "I was his soldier ever since joining the military, his pyr…I think he would choose me to perform the rite."
"Very well, then, come here and speak your piece." - Nerva beckoned him to come along. Jullus felt dozens of eyes, all turning towards him in a single moment, all hopeful yet entangled with fear. The soldier couldn't help but chuckle at the realization of what they expected of him. A broken young man who could barely maintain enough hope in his own heart, much less share it with them. Yet he had to try.
Jullus stepped forward in complete silence, slowly walking towards the pyre while attempting to avoid the gazes of others. He couldn't afford them to see his own shame and wet eyes. Perhaps the shame would wear off one day…But he didn't dare to count on it.
He could only think of his first days in the army, the day he swore to bring honor to his family, to make the name Norbanus one of power and respect across all of Garlemald. This was the day he met Quintus, one of the most well-known Legati in the Empire. It was a great honor, especially back in the time when Jullus saw Quintus as a hero and an idol rather than a man. He saw him as infallible and perfect, someone whose service to Garlemald was something every soul should aspire to. It was only later that Jullus began to see his lord as a person, a person he deeply respected, but a simple living being nonetheless. He had his flaws; he could be far too stern at times and refuse to see the other possibilities, although his caution proved to be a necessity in many questionable cases. When Quintus died, Jullus saw him fight like a man, broken and powerless under the weight of his own wounds, yet with undying resolve rivaling that of an idol. He wished to live a legacy, yet had to watch everything he knew and loved to get annihilated before his own eyes. Now Jullus was entrusted with the duty of keeping this legacy, a tired, broken boy who just wished for it all to end. To see his family again, even if it meant dying himself. Despite all those words he spoke to Licinia, he couldn't truly embrace all of it. Some people and memories cannot be replaced.
Some wounds do not heal.
And now he stood before all people of Tertium, foolishly believing in his ability to make a speech as inspiring as possible. He could not. They waited, they whispered, and they wondered if he was truly up to the task while Jullus was desperately thinking to himself of what he could say that would not be pointless drivel. Those were all the words they had already heard, and yet any time they felt like hope was within reach, it got squandered again and again. Even Licinia watched with hope, all her faith proving pointless. Soon Jullus turned away from them, perhaps because he saw no point, perhaps because of shame. All he knew was that instead of words, the people of Garlemald demanded deeds, demanded justice, and victories. And they would bring those victories to them or perish altogether.
"Give me the torch." - Jullus demanded while looking at Nerva. The ebon warrior obliged. "Goodbye, my lord, and thank you for everything…Your death will not be in vain. That I promise." - The flames burned bright, slowly consuming his body while Jullus had to watch. Just like their Empire, the Legatus was about to become ashes. Jullus knew that his only hope was to live to see Garlemald safe, no matter how tarnished or ruined it was, but fate never gave him that chance. A life taken by the claws of the tempered, now his body was purged by flames, and no retribution to be found. Jullus clenched his fist before turning around once again, staring into the crowd with festering anger in his eyes.
"There…" - He spoke quietly and stuttered before taking a deep breath. "There was no justice in his in lord Quintus's death, no fairness, and no words can do him justice. Only honoring his last wish would bring him the peace he deserves…He wished for the people of Garlemald to be saved. And there is no one to save us but ourselves. Trapped between the hordes of blasted tempered, the Alliance that seeks to destroy our culture, and the Final Days that rule the skies…The time has come to fight once again, without the help of an ascian this time. And heavens know, I will fight. As will all of us. In the tower and beyond. The time for words has passed, so it's time for all of us to go and honor lord Quintus's wish." - Jullus spoke loudly and harshly, not knowing if those words would not be enough of a motivation then nothing else will. There was no point in appealing to hope, no matter how tempting the allure was. Perhaps he didn't care about survival anymore, but Jullus liked to believe that a part of him did. If not for himself, then for those he had lost.
His battle continued.
…
There was not much time left to prepare; the time was nearing. Were they to linger for too long, the tempered would, no doubt, come back and try to assault Tertium once again, bringing even more death and despair into their homes. Jullus could not allow this. Every lost life was a tragedy, especially when there were so few of them that remained. From now on, it was his duty to lead them into whatever future had in the story for the people of Garlemald.
Of course, people were worried about what was to come. Lucia and Nerva were able to let go of their differences and focus on bringing about the shared victory all of them desired. Jullus could still consider them allies, at least for one more day. And when the blasphemy is vanquished, they will finally show their true colors. At least Lucia's motives were clear enough; Jullus knew that she wanted to tell people of Garlemald about evacuation to the moon and offer them a place by the others' side. Nerva wished for the throne, and unless he was planning to backstab the Ist, it would be up to Jullus whether to join him or refuse. This was the question people wondered about most. They came to him demanding answers, pleading to know of Jullus's plan for what was to come after the battle. Now he could finally feel the burden of being the sole leader for the survivors, the brunt Quintus had to bear ever since the fall. Even now, he had to speak to a group of disillusioned survivors, looking at him and pleading for answers.
"Are we still going to attack the tower?" - An old man's lips quivered as he looked at the lone soldier.
"There are so few of us left, and without lord Quintus to lead us…What are we going to do?" - A younger woman asked of Jullus, wanting to know if there was any hope for their future. Jullus wished he knew, but he wasn't ready to make the fateful decision yet. After all, no one knew how the coming battle would end and who would survive it. Jullus wasn't sure if he wished for Nerva to fall in that battle, it would take a powerful ally away from them, but it would also mean he wouldn't try to take control over this creation again. After all, the allure to rule the tempered was a strong one; even Jullus wasn't sure if he'd turn it down simply because of the risks.
"All that matters now…" - The soldier spoke to the fearful survivors before him, trying to sound as confident as possible. "Is that we end the threat and slay the blasphemy. Otherwise, there will be more deaths. They won't stop until all of us are wiped out." - Jullus sighed and clenched his fist, seeing the people recoil in doubt. He was never the one for speeches; it was clear during the funeral. After all, it's not about the battle they wanted to hear.
"And what then?" - The old man raised his voice. "Nerva is using us like pawns. He probably expects the battle to weaken our last forces, and then…What's stopping him from just enforcing his leadership upon us? Lord Quintus is gone…There is no one to stand up for us now."
"I will." - Jullus spoke sternly, thinking to himself that he sounded like Quintus in the spur of the moment. "I gave the promise to be the best leader I can; I'm not going back on it."
"I'm sorry, but…You're too young for this!" - The woman spoke in a loud, borderline panicking voice. "Nerva is from the royal family. Only lord Quintus could speak with him on equal terms! I…I'm sorry, but I don't think Nerva would ever see you as his equal."
"It doesn't matter how Nerva sees me!" - Jullus scoffed, trying to maintain his anger. He understood that people doubted him, and with good reason, but being so open about their distrust and distaste made the young soldier reel inadvertently. "Perhaps what you say is true, but in that case, that would be his weakness when dealing with me. I will make my judgment once the battle is over and our common enemy is slain, just like Nerva will have no choice but to reveal his real motives, whatever they are. He claims to be honorable and cares about Garlemald…Well, we shall see about that."
"And what was lord Quintus's decision? Did he tell you?"
"There was…No decision was made. He wished for us to focus on the present and then give Nerva the answer. Whether he had it in his mind or not, lord Quintus never told me." - Jullus responded honestly.
"And what would you do, then?"
"Whatever I deem right after we finish our fight. I only wish for the same Quintus wished, for our people to be saved and get a respite, no matter how difficult it is. If Nerva wishes for the same and is genuine in his desire for help…He deserves a place among us."
"As an equal or as a leader? Why does this sound like you're planning to let him take the reigns?"
"I…" - Jullus wasn't sure. The grudges against Nerva were pointless after the fall. Declining help would be a self-defeating choice. However, the last son of the royal family was far from shy; he wished to have his throne and leadership over what remained of the Garlean people. Was it power that was driving him primarily, or his desire to restore Garlemald? "I will make the right choice."
"And what's that supposed to mean?"
"Hey!" - Jullus heard Licinia's echoing voice. The woman was quick to rush towards the scene the moment she passed beside Jullus. She looked at the dissenting people with a stern yet understanding gaze. "He's doing his best for all of us; you aren't helping by stirring up panic and bringing up those questions before the battle is over."
"But we want to know what to expect! We had those questions on our minds ever since Nerva was allowed in here!"
"And did you push lord Quintus for this information as well?" - Licinia crossed her hands, watching the two look away in silence.
"No…Not really."
"I understand your fears, but it would be to the benefit of us all to let the warriors and commanders do their job and not distract them with other matters. Jullus wants to be the best leader he can be for you, and I know it. But we all need time to think before making the best decisions, don't we? So please, just give him a break." - Her words were put much more eloquently and persuasively than Jullus ever hoped for them to be.
"I…" - The old man sighed. "Alright…I suppose a change is in order; lord Quintus must've chosen you for a reason. But remember that we expect the best of you."
"I know, and I am not going to fail you." - Jullus responded with confidence before the two finally left, allowing him and Licinia a slight respite. Jullus looked upon the woman with a relieved smile, finally able to exude some genuine warmth. "Thank you…They tend to get a little too persistent while my mind is occupied with other matters."
"Think nothing of it. I'm glad to help…" - Licinia paused before continuing to speak in her quiet, concerned voice. "How are you doing."
"I'm alright." - Jullus responded coldly.
"Are you sure?"
"Yes."
It was painful to lose Quintus, agonizing to watch his body burn, yet after that, Jullus was able to push his thoughts of him away. The problems of living were far more important. At times, he was worried by how easily he was able to let go after the funeral, but after losing his family, friends, city…What was this, if not just another step on the ladder?
"I just…" - Jullus wasn't sure how to deal with the discomfort he felt; the people around him certainly did much to tire him. "I need some fresh air."
"Mind if I go with you?" - Licinia asked immediately. She was the last person here Jullus would suspect of anything malicious, but he had to wonder about her wants nevertheless.
"Don't you need more time to train?"
"I just thought that it would be a little easier if you're not completely alone. It helped me, you know…But if you want to be alone, I understand."
"It's alright. I wouldn't mind your company at all." - Jullus was quick to reassure her, seeing a smile emerge on the woman's face. The two of them walked towards the exit, heading to the outer reaches of Tertium. It might've been cold there, but at least they would not get asked the pervasive questions without answers. "Do you still want to go?" - Jullus wondered.
"Huh?"
"The battle, I mean."
"Oh…Yes, I do." - Licinia admitted.
"Even after you saw them murder lord Quintus?"
"Especially after that. It's all the more reason for me to fight to protect others, for all of us." - She remained decisive in her desires and actions, something that Jullus could respect. Now he couldn't divert the decision to anyone, and as the new leader of the Ist, it was his choice to make.
"Then you have my permission."
"T…Truly?" - A surprised smile emerged on her face.
"Don't be so surprised; I might have doubted it at first, but in the end, we do need everyone who can fight and is willing to take on it. If that's your choice, then I accept your help." - Jullus explained.
"Thank you!" - Her voice sounded almost too joyous, as she was getting a present from someone close to her. Is that how far they have gone? An opportunity to die in a dignified way was akin to a gift now? "I promise I will not disappoint."
"And I promise to cover your back, always." - He didn't want to lose his new friend, as well, especially after putting her into this position.
When the two were outside, the N-Warrior that stood by the gate immediately caught Jullus's attention as the smell of the polished, ceruleum-fueled metal became pronounced in the air around them. Cid was outside the cabin, focused on something which distracted him from Jullus and Licinia.
"As busy as ever." - Licinia smiled. "I wish I was as talented…"
"Mind if we stop for a while?"
"You want to talk to him?"
"Wanted to thank him for helping us during the tempered invasion. We want him to keep that up, after all." - Jullus shrugged. He heard no objections from Licinia. As the two approached the engineer, the soldier heard the clicking of endless buttons on the panel near the mech as Cid tried to enter some kind of code.
"Garlond?" - Jullus asked, immediately forcing Cid to turn around.
"Oh, it's you. Didn't know you were coming." - Garlond said while continuing to peer into the panel.
"What are you doing?" - Licinia wondered.
"The decide which Wedge discovered on the Ruby Weapon…You said similar prototypes were used to design those weapons as the N-Warrior; I should've thought of it sooner, but thank you for the lead anyway. Now, I've almost established a proper connection between it and the N-Warrior. Perhaps it could unravel whatever data it stores within."
"You clearly weren't wasting your time." - Jullus commended the engineer, immediately hearing a chuckle from him.
"Can't afford to waste any when the whole damn world is about to come crashing down."
"I just wanted to say…Thank you for helping us with the tempered. More of them would've gotten inside were it not for your assistance."
"No worries, I'm more than used to it at this point…I'm sorry for your loss." - Cid dared to pause his work for a moment and looked at Jullus with pained eyes. "I know Quintus was a mentor to you, and from what I heard…At least he fought bravely."
"Oh, that he did." - Jullus responded quietly as Cid returned back to his work. "I hope your mech is at its best. It's not too long before we March towards the tower."
"That's the last thing you have to concern yourself with; I worked day and night on it just to prepare it for the assault." - Cid sounded confident while still refusing to pay Jullus and Licinia too much attention, so much was he focused on his work. The soldier looked at Licinia, silently beckoning that perhaps the time had come for them to leave, but the moment they were about to step aside, an echoing mechanical sound pierced their ears, followed by Cid's excited voice. "Yes, damn it! It works!"
"Did you do it?" - Jullus moved back, trying to get a sneak peek at Garlond's work. The ruby device was glowing and pulsing with energy now that it was finally connected to the N-Warrior in its entirety.
"Huh…Didn't expect it to go that smoothly." - Cid smiled and looked at Licinia. "Thanks, your suggestion definitely saved me some headache." - He reached out for the box, but before he could touch it, the trio heard the sounds of mechanical gear, clearly recorded on the device which Cid had now unlocked. "It has a recording on it…As I expected. And now, for the moment of truth." - Cid said with anticipation before going silent, Jullus and Licinia were just as intrigued to hear the message.
"Is this damn thing even…Oh, make my senses deceive me? It works!" - A voice rang out from the dynamic, an unfamiliar to Jullus, yet upon hearing its sound, Cid froze immediately. The voice had robotic undertones and echoes, yet it was undeniably human, as the pure energy of annoyance filled it, quickly changed to rejoice upon his latter words.
"Of all, I could've expected…I suppose this is the one area where Valens deserves some credit. Omega jam me. I would've felt nauseous just saying those words were I still in possession of my body." - The voice brimmed with disgust before swiftly putting those emotions aside. "Anyway, if you are listening to this message, Garlond, that means you survived, and therefore Ala Mhigo was successfully saved. Either that, or you once proved a lucky bastard who managed to escape all the destruction the Diamond Weapon would bring. Either is possible, but I will ever be an optimist and assume it is the former." - Jullus remembered the story Cid told him about defending Ala Mhigo from the Ruby Weapon and the battle that ensued, as well as who piloted it. Nero tol Scaeva, the rival engineer of Cid's and his fallen friend. Licinia and Jullus noticed Cid silently reaching out towards the panel the more he heard the voice.
"I suppose an explanation is in order. See, I never intended there to be a long goodbye, not that there was much I could've planned when battling against a crazed machine, but for some reason, I still have time. My body is already transformed and is used as a vessel for the White Raven to end the abomination Valens turned into. I imagined my mind would be consumed too, and it is dissipating…Slowly." - Upon speaking those words, Nero's voice paused as Jullus could hear regret and pain in his words, as it was getting hard for him to speak. After a short pause, he continued. "Maybe that's what they mean by saying that resisting only makes it worse? I didn't resist the oversoul. I was ready…Either way, I have no control over the battle; the system took care of that. All I can do is record the message and hope that it survives, that you'll find and decode it later, as complicated of a challenge as it might be. And the truth is, there is something I wish to say." - His voice got relaxed and unexpectedly kind, contrasting much with the tone in which he began this message. Jullus could hear yet another pause, Nero wasn't too eager to talk, yet eventually, he forced himself to continue.
"Ever since I was junior, the name 'Cid Garlond' was akin to reminding me of the constant pain in my arse. Cid Garlond invented this, created that, improved a dozen other things, and isn't he such a golden child? That made my academy days an absolute nightmare with your bloody name constantly being stuck in my head, so much, so that part of me rejoiced when you actually defected; at least I could bring your head to Gaius and get both his approval and the removal of my rival. After Praetorium and the Syrcus Tower, I decided that simply leaving you alone would be too good; being able to annoy you so easily is…Addictive, to say the least." - His sarcastic tone housed deep admiration, although Jullus couldn't tell the exact reason for him to be so sure of it. Perhaps the words of fondness with which Cid spoke of Nero were enough for him to construct a picture of what their friendship was like. "But to be honest, after working with the Ironworks, side-by-side with you, I was able to let go of our petty conflicts…Almost. We have done well that time with Omega, haven't we? Not that I want to feel its sting upon me again, but I can say it was worth it. We've done our best there, you especially. Still, I wondered if I was doing something wrong by simply letting go of this strife, of my…Jealousy. After all, that's who you always were to me, the one who everyone mistakenly believed to be the greatest Garlean inventor, constantly showered you with praise while I was overlooked…" - His voice grew quieter as shame arose in Nero's tone. It was akin to a confession one would make where all of his sins, vices, dreams, and desires would be unveiled, all for the sake of unburdening oneself. Nero's fainting, a hopeful voice was enough proof that it was what he wanted to do. As Jullus noticed a few tears fall to the snow from Cid's eyes, his hands began to shake. Yet another one who lost his friend. A defector, a traitor for whom Jullus wasn't supposed to feel any sympathy, and yet he did. He knew how it felt to lose someone close to you, be they a friend or family. To deny one kindness simply because of their affiliation would be to admit that he didn't care for the losses and pain of others, only for propping up those on his side. As Jullus sighed in pain, he felt Licinia gently holding her hand as she listened to the message in silence. It touched her deeply, as much as it did Jullus.
"But something happened recently that helped me finally make peace. And yes, I was not planning to tell you any of that until my unfortunate situation of being erased by an Ultima Weapon, so you'd better be grateful. When I saw an old protege of mine who now rose to the rank of Legatus, I could see exactly the path I had avoided. He despised Gaius and despised me, all because he was jealous of our success and achievements. He wanted to reach our heights, to make us suffer, and he would forego any logic or reason in his attempt to reach this goal. It was easy to annoy him…As easy as it was to annoy me when I heard others mention your name in the Academy." - The momentary spite arose in his voice once again, but it was quick to switch to acceptance and relief. "I never sunk to his lows, thankfully, but I decided to keep this thought with me. After all, prolonging this conflict was simply pointless, wasn't it? We competed, pushed ourselves to our limits, and perhaps served as a motivation for each other to get better…But in the end, we both were just fools who pursued a dream. And we were at our best when we finally put this conflict aside and worked together. As short as those days were, I cannot deny that they were one of the best ones. I learned a lot from you, learned to do what is right when the times call for it…Thank you, Cid. Thank you for those days…" - As he spoke his words, the metal sound echoed once again as Jullus heard Nero let out a pained grunt. His voice changed, growing more mechanical and ordered, slowly stripping it of emotion. It also began to sound more feminine and soft, merging Nero's identity into the Oversoul system that consumed him.
"Ah, damnit, the time's coming…Soon I'll be nothing, any moment now. Well, I suppose that's the moment where you become the most…ingenious living inventor deservedly, congratulations…my friend." - He spoke with unabashed pride. Even though Jullus didn't see Nero, he could certainly imagine a smile that emerged on his face during those words. "With you at their side, the Alliance and the whole world will most certainly live to see another day and have e-e-enough toys at their di-i-isposal. I wish we didn't have to say goodbye-e-es this…early, but what's the point of agonizing when you simply have no choice? A shame I have to le-e-eave so early, just when the world was beginning to delve into chaos with the towers and the weapo-o-ons and all…Up to you, no-o-ow. See that our world doesn't yet become dust like that craze-e-ed ascian wants, will you? Hah, who am I asking…
I kno-o-ow you-u-u wo-o-on't, I know…"
This was when the message ended, leaving the trio in silence. None dared to speak, and Jullus's mind still had Nero's words echoing inside.
Fools who pursued a dream together even, who were ready to quench their conflict and unite to pursue new heights together, the heights they reached and were proud of. How much more could they achieve had they seen this potential earlier? Had they put aside their differences for a common goal? Now, none would know the answer.
"Damn it, Nero…" - Cid put his hand on the device while wiping his tears with another. His voice was quiet and stern, he rarely wasted his time on emotions, yet the pauses in his breaking words were enough to show how he truly felt about it. "You fool…If only you would've talked to me earlier, there is nothing, not a single goddamn grudge…" - He took a deep breath before turning towards Jullus and Licinia.
"I'm sorry." - Jullus spoke quietly. "I can see that he was a good, talented man and a loyal friend."
"He died like a hero like he always wanted…Not that will ever bring him back or give him the life he deserved…But I don't think he would've regretted such an end."
"I hope he is relieved if his soul can see it…" - Licinia sighed. "Now that you've heard this message, all that he wanted to do is now done…He can be free."
"Hah…" - Cid chuckled faintly. "A nice sentiment, but for Nero, the goal would never be accomplished before the Final Days are averted and the world is saved; he would've wanted us to have such resolve as well." - Cid looked up with a smile. Despite his tears, pain, and regrets, the lone engineer did not allow himself to be overtaken. If anything, Jullus could see the unbridled resolve emerge in his eyes. "Well, I'd say we do our best to fulfilling his request, shall we?"
Yes, this was definitely for the best. Those who perished fell because they wanted those to live to continue the fight and see it to its triumphant conclusion…And this was yet another reason for them to never waver in their determination.
…
When everything was prepared, it was time for the Garleans to reclaim what was rightfully theirs. One more push against the grain, one more attempt to take over the capital, one which they prayed would not be futile. Combining the forces of Nerva, Lucia, and Jullus they amassed a powerful enough unit, the one that would be able to stand against the blasphemy in combat, perhaps even vanquish it. All of them were brave and fearless warriors who weren't afraid of perishing for a noble cause. It was with both pride and immense guilt Jullus realized this, realized that whatever the outcome, not everyone will come back from this. It was especially horrifying when seeing Licinia among them, holding on to her firearm and dressed up in a soldier's attire. He knew her for only a handful of days, yet after lord Quintus's passing, she was the only person that he could confide in, the only one he trusted. Even Cid, for all his nobility, was still a defector, and sooner or later, they would have to go separate ways. With the few that remained, their task was to build a foundation for a new Garlemald.
But before that could be done, the last echo of the old one has to be brought down.
With Nerva's guidance, the squad set out into the capital, and eventually, they reached the Tower of Babil. Nerva did not lie when he said that he knew the shortcuts that would bring them to the hall of the Anima, his aid proved irreplaceable during their voyage, and there were only a few tempered encountered on their way. During their journey, Jullus always focused on Licinia to see how she felt. The girl did not speak at all; she fired her pistol when the moment called for it while spending the rest of watching those lifeless ruins. Nothing but a pile of rubble with occasional tempered or magitek constructs wandering around aimlessly, scouring for anything they could annihilate. The legacy their prince left them…Truly nauseous, every moment of it. Jullus knew how it must have felt for Licinia to see the capital once again after its destruction. Her home must have been here somewhere, just as charred as the rest of them…Perhaps he would help her find it once the ordeal was over.
But for now, they had to focus on the present. When Nerva led them through the tower's gates, Cid and his N-Warrior had to stay behind.
"This is as far as you can go." - Lucia spoke with Cid via her linkpearl while the engineer circled around the tower high in the sky. Jullus couldn't hear her Cid's words, but Lucia nodded in response. "Then wait for us outside; we will tell you when it's time."
"So…" - Nerva raised his voice, garnering everyone's attention. "I assume everyone is ready. Once we're inside, we open ourselves for the blasphemies that might have festered in the tower. Don't get too fearful. You'll only embolden those beasts."
"We know." - Jullus responded. "No point in waiting; let's go and finish this."
"Agreed." - Nerva nodded and sheathed his greatsword. "The elevator is close by. I'll lead you to it."
He was the first one to walk in along with his soldiers; the rest followed soon after.
"I have a bad feeling about this…" - Licinia sighed as she and Jullus were about to walk into the darkened halls of this hellish tower. The soldier looked at her with concerned eyes.
"It's alright if you don't want to, it should be safe around the entrance."
"And become a coward that left you to whatever awaits inside?" - Licinia shook her head. "No, never."
Then it was time for them to go. As the two entered Babil, a wave of agonizing memories immediately overtook Jullus. He remembered the screams of his friends and comrades as they were torn apart and pierced by the tempered hordes within the tower, slaughtered by Lugae and his brethren. How they fought Anima along with Fordola, Estinien, and Solus, later replaced by the ghostly warrior of eld. But the most horrifying of them all was the moment when Jullus looked into Zenos's eyes. Those remorseless, empty eyes of a man who destroyed his entire nation in cold blood and right until his death showed no care or consideration for their fate. Jullus wished that his phantom would be forever buried in this forsaken place, yet it would undoubtedly haunt the Garlean people for a generation to come.
"Incoming!" - Lucia shouted before grabbing her blade and shield; everyone followed her example while clutching their weapons. Someone emerged above the other side of the grey bridge that led to the elevator. A beast reminiscent of a bat but much larger and much more gruesome. Malformed monster with only one bright eye and sharp claws that emerged from its withered hands. The monster screeched as it flew toward the squad. This was the time for them to act.
Licinia immediately began firing along with other Garlean soldiers while Lucia's mages began to unleash destructive spells of fire upon the beast. Those who could only fight on land, like Jullus, were ready to finish the monster when it would be down. When the pain became too unbearable, the blasphemy descended to the ground as it was flailing and clawing at its opponents. Nerva and Jullus took the opportunity to strike it and surrounded the beast. The young soldier avoided its attacks and pierced the monster's limb, immobilizing it for a moment, just enough for Nerva to cut the beast's head off.
"Mindless creatures." - The black knight said with spite as he saw the blasphemy turn into ash. "This was one of the weaker ones, so don't get too comfortable." - Nerva looked to the squad and warned them in a stern tone. "Come, the elevator is over there."
The rest didn't have it in them to complain. So far, their advance was smooth, and Jullus wished it would remain like that. Eventually, the squad entered the large elevator pad that led to Anima's chamber. Thankfully, there were no artificial locks or codes on the system after Zenos and Fandaniel left. They could freely use it to get up. When everyone got inside, Nerva activated the protocol. Jullus could feel the pad beneath him launching into the upper floors, bringing them closer to that dreadful room. It seemed like he, too, had a fear to conquer in those halls.
"So, what exactly can we expect from the blasphemy you mentioned?" - Licinia looked up at Nerva with unnerved curiosity in her eyes.
"It's a strong one, made of a few different souls, not to mention its connection to the tower…Unless we distract it, it will be quick to call in tempered reinforcements here."
"And any weak spots?"
"Alas, I wasn't able to test those during my previous visit…" - Nerva sighed. "It is a beast of many faces, perhaps were we to trike their eyes or mouths…Yes, that's where I would aim." - Nerva said with confidence, although it was clear that some of the beast's secrets still remained unearthed, and there would be much for them to discover once they encountered the monster.
Before anyone else could talk, the door of the elevator opened, and the squad found themselves amidst the maze-like bridges of the top floor, the same one where Jullus fought mutated constructs in service of Anima before engaging the eikon itself. Its malformed face and body still haunted Jullus's nightmares, always the shadow towering above his family, his friends, and the comrades he lost. The shadow that took them into the deepest pit of despair before becoming history.
"Be careful." - Lucia warned the others. "The beast can be anywhere."
"It's prone to hiding." - Nerva added as they walked towards the central platform, the same one that once housed Anima. Jullus could see some changes in the room since his last visit. There was a system of magitek devices set up on its edge, some of which still gleamed with mechanical light. Upon seeing the devices in this state, Nerva's expression changed; he was surprised and undeniably drawn toward it.
"It is still operational…Ha…" - A smile emerged on his face, which made Jullus throw a suspicious glance at the warrior.
"Is that the system you set up to control the tempered?" - Lucia asked.
"Precisely. And we came so close if not for…"
A piercing roar echoed through the tower, making everyone in the squad look above. This was when Jullus witnessed the dozen of eyes looking from the darkness above them. Crimson, furious eyes of the monster that hid in the shadows, slowly crawled down. The soldier heard the echoes of its claws piercing the wall, and the grey bile fell to the floor in front of them, corroding the surface. And above it all, the hidden beast with its wings open wide. And worse yet, Jullus could hear the voices, the quiet, distorted whispers which echoed from its faces.
"Why…"
"You left us to die…"
"Lord…Lord Nerva…"
These voices did not make the black knight retreat. On the contrary, he bravely stepped forth and looked at the reclusive monster.
"I didn't. When I left…You were already dead." - He sheathed his greatsword, preparing for the co in battle. "To arms!"
Moments later, the monster jumped down to the platform, showing itself. It was a beast of many faces, each with crimson eyes and a monotone, pained expression twisted by despair, just like Nerva described. A dark aura emerged around the monster, blessing it with might.
It roared and rushed toward its opponents. The first it chose was the weakest link, the soldiers closest to it. The blasphemy plunged its teeth into one of them, drenching one of its faces in blood. The corrosive aura was so quick that the man's body was annihilated before he could even scream. The fire that the other soldiers, including Licinia, unleashed upon it did little to distract the monster. When it tossed the boys aside, it was a charred morsel, barely resembling a human.
"You'll pay for that!" - Jullus shouted. "Spread out; let's trick it!"
The soldiers followed his commands and rushed to attack the monster from three sides. Nerva and his warriors stayed on the left, trying to reach the blasphemy's face and wound it, while to the right, Jullus, Licinia, and others from his unit would try to do the same. Licinia fought at the front, trying to garner the beast's attention. She also protected the mages behind her, who valiantly continued to manipulate aether, turning it into the magic of pure fire and agony. When one of those spells burned one of the many faces of this beast, Jullus could hear the pervasive smell of burning flesh as the creature fumed.
"We're getting it; fight on!" - Lucia shouted while standing her ground valiantly. However, instead of continuing the fight, the monster unleashed its wings, swiftly abandoning the battlefield.
"Gone already, coward?" - Nerva mocked the beast. "Come down and fight. Don't you want to show us the true power of despair or whatever it is that fuels you?!"
"You…Die!" - The monster screeched before unleashing a wave of azure magic to the arena. Jullus could swear that the color of this spell was identical to that of ceruleum, but there was no time to examine it closely. The wave was so powerful it forced everyone apart from Nerva, Lucia, and a few other warriors to the ground. Jullus felt as if an anvil had been dropped on him. The soldier clenched his teeth in an attempt not to shout before colliding with the cold floor. He heard others shouting in pain, some of them pushed to the edges of the platform; one mage couldn't resist and fell into the abyss that emerged underneath the chamber. As he stood up, Jullus scoured the platform for Licinia, praying that she was alright as his heart was beating twice as fast. Soon, he noticed her among the soldiers who stood up after the burning wave, allowing himself a slight moment of distraction.
"Look out!" - Licinia shouted and pointed to something behind the soldier. Jullus turned around swiftly, noticing the beast dropping to the ground with yet another piercing roar. The rage-filled it as it scoured for more prey. Its shadow arose over Lucia and Nerva, who had no one to support them.
"Strike it when it opens itself!" - Lucia shouted eagerly. "I will give you the blessing." - The paladin closed her eyes, empowering Nerva with the aura of light.
"Gladly!" - The man responded, preparing to strike. "I'll annihilate it!" - When the monster was about to run towards them, lowering its face, Nerva charged at the blasphemy, and moments before it could unleash another spell, he jumped and pierced yet another of its faces with his blade. Once again, the rotten blood streamed from the blasphemy's body as it reeled in pain. Nerva tried to reach for the other face but was forcefully pushed aside moments before he got the chance.
The beast, meanwhile, continued to fight. It must have realized that there was no point in trying to stalk stronger prey; thus, it turned towards Jullus's unit.
"Damn it…" - The soldier inadvertently shook while still trying to stand his ground. He did not have enough time to retreat. He and a few others were trapped in the blasphemy's shadow. Hopefully, Lucia had already sent her signal to Cid, and their rescue was within reach. For now, however, all that remained was to hold out and hope for the best.
When the monster jumped towards Jullus, he swiftly jumped to the nearby angle, but another soldier was not so lucky. He was pierced by the monster's claws, which tore him apart even quicker than its previous victim. Its next target was Jullus, and there was not enough time to escape again. The soldier slung his blade, preparing to defend himself until his last breath.
"Hold on!" - Licinia shouted as she tried to shoot the beast, hitting two of its eyes with her bullets. The monster recoiled and screeched, giving Jullus a few precious seconds. The soldier stood up and charged towards the open area while the monster was distracted. "Jullus, come here, we're…" - Licinia beckoned for him, but the monster unleashed yet another spell. This one targeted Licinia, the azure flames burned her, and the shockwave pushed her to the edge.
"LICINIA!" - Jullus shouted in shock as he watched her grab the platform's edge, barely holding on to it. "Wait, I'll help you!" - He charged towards Licinia as the beast continued to spew its spells of flame at Jullus. He could see the raging stains emerge behind and in front of him, the ones he desperately tried to avoid while rushing toward Licinia. When he was almost there, one of those stains emerged right beneath his right leg, burning Jullus and making him shout in agony.
"Aaargh…No, no!" - He limped, trying to ignore the agony in his leg. When he feared that all could be lost, Jullus finally reached the edge. He grabbed Licinia's hand, unable to look back, praying both to his Emperor and foreign gods that the beast would not try to strike again.
"Just a little more…I got you!" - Jullus shouted, pulling her back to the platform.
"I…Can't! It's too…Too…"
"Come on, almost there!" - Without thinking of consequences, Jullus pushed Licinia to the platform. It all happened too quickly for Jullus to realize. The grey ceiling emerged above him while still covered in shadows. The beast was still out there, but most importantly…He felt Licinia's warm hand. She didn't shake anymore, yet she was still warm. Jullus looked to his side; she was still alive and conscious. Thank the Emperor…
"T…Thank you!" - Licinia's relieved voice echoed in Jullus's ears. As the two got up, they heard a loud explosive sound. Something pierced one of the walls around them. Finally, a breach through which they could see the sky and the N-Warrior approaching at full speed.
"Yes, perfect timing!" - Jullus shouted as everyone, including the beast, had to watch the machina descend into the fray.
"Finally, the tide turns…" - Nerva smiled. "Attack, end it!"
The N-Warrior stood before the monster, slashing its skin with the azure blade. The blasphemy did not expect such a hit. It reeled and retreated to the opposite side.
"Don't like that, did you?" - Cid's triumphant voice echoed through the dynamics. "Well, today ain't your lucky day because I am not done!" - Two powerful rockets emerged from the mech, both flying toward the beast. This time, however, the blasphemy was prepared and summoned a dark aura that covered it. Due to its corrosive effects, the rockets were weakened the moment they approached the beast, and it withstood the coming explosion.
"Ah, I see you have your own tricks…"
Soon, the beast screamed once again, though this time, it wasn't a sound of pain and agony. It was an echoing sound that was immediately absorbed by the walls of the tower. Even Jullus could feel the gravity of it. Moments after, dozens of tempered emerged on the other side of the hall, all charging toward the platform like a swarm of mindless beasts.
"We've got another problem!" - Licinia shouted, forcing everyone to focus on the tempered.
"My men will deal with them!" - Nerva responded as the nearby soldiers regrouped around him. "Finish the creature while I hold them off!"
Now they got just a little more time, but even someone as strong as Nerva would not be able to slaughter all of those tempered; they had to be quick. When the fight on the side closer to the elevator began, Jullus heard the clashing of blades, something that he couldn't allow to distract himself. The blasphemy was a priority.
The battle between the monster and the N-Warrior continued, but the blasphemy was overpowering him. Even with wounds, it evaded the azure blade while spitting darkness and poison at the N-Warrior's body, despite Cid's attempts to end it as quickly as possible. Soon, the engineer got a perfect opportunity to strike. He slashed one of the beast's wings, completely cutting it off. The agonized shout of the monster created a sense that it was vulnerable now, allowing a number of soldiers to charge toward it. They were proven wrong, however, as the blasphemy immediately unleashed a poisonous wave of rotten bile, falling on those soldiers like a lethal blanket. They couldn't run and had time to let out only a few screams before their skin corroded and what remained of their bodies fell to the floor.
The monster did not wait, like any wounded animal. It became even more vicious when wounded. The beast charged at the N-Warrior, pushing the construct to the edge. One of its limbs ripped into the mech's arm, piercing the lighter armor on the joints. The blasphemy screamed as it had the mech on the ground; its armor proved much harder to break than the beast expected. It proved a perfect distraction, however. It spent much energy on the mech, spitting more bile that closely began to corrode the armor, wasting much of its protective power.
"Now is our chance!" - Lucia commanded. "After me!"
She was followed by Jullus, Licinia, and the remaining soldiers followed her, each fighting to the best of their abilities in an attempt to bring the beast down. It began with spells of flame surrounding the blasphemy, burning down the remnants of its protective aura. The monster panicked, yet it did not stop its attempts to tear down the N-Warrior. It must have known that were it to move away, it would have to fight the mech yet again, and this time it might not be so lucky.
Licinia and the machinists opened fire, aiming at the creature's red eyes. Many of their bullets strike the perfect chord, blinding the monster and further irritating in. This forced it to back down and lose the grip it had on the N-Warrior. The machina grabbed the beast by its other wing, throwing it to the floor as it flailed and resisted in futility. Lucia was ready to continue the fight; once it was on the floor, she rushed towards the remaining faces of the blasphemy and slashed one after the other, letting its corrupted blood drench the platform. Before she could strike it one last time, the monster stood up, unleashing yet another wave of corrosive darkness. Lucia shielded herself moments before it reached her, yet even her armor could not withstand it forever as the wedges began to form. Jullus had to help.
The young soldier rushed towards the monster, who could barely stand despite its attempts to resist, it could barely see, and Jullus would use this to his advantage. When the moment was right, he slipped between the blasphemy's legs as it was still focused on Lucia and plunged his sword into the black skin of its stomach as deep as possible. Immediately he had to roll away not to be annihilated by the flow of corrosive blood that would emerge, yet his strike was successful. The beast screamed and recoiled; Jullus's sword was already corroded, yet the wounds in the monster's skin ran deep. It continued to desperately screech, trying to flail its remaining wing, but it wasn't enough for it to fly. Soon, the beast collapsed to the floor, powerless and barely breathing.
"Yes, finally!" - Cid exclaimed. The N-Warrior was clearly weakened by the beast's attack. Its movements grew slower and fainter. "Someone, finish it!"
"No, not yet!" - Nerva's eager voice echoed from behind. Before he could turn, Jullus noticed an electrical field appear before the monster, trapping it while it was grounded. Soon after turning, he saw Nerva near the system his scientists set up; he was near one of the computers while his remaining soldiers resisted the onslaught of the tempered.
"What in the seven hells are you doing!?" - Lucia shouted as she stepped forward. Judging by her tense disposition, she was barely holding herself from attacking Nerva. "Why aren't you helping others?"
"We've all done our best to weaken the beast, but before it leaves…There is something that must be done."
"Don't even think about double-crossing us, Nerva." - Cid warned him. "You do not have the power here."
"Just watch. I was wondering if the system was still operational the moment we saw it…It was." - Nerva's voice gleamed with pride. "And thus, I issue a final order." - He pressed one of the buttons, forcing the blasphemy to shiver and screech, sending yet another signal into the space around it. This shriek took the last motes of its energy, and moments later, the blasphemy turned to dust right before Jullus's eyes.
"What have you done?" - The so, died asked with spite. He didn't know what the order was, but he could guess. Nerva could've unleashed the tempered upon the Alliance forces or Tertium; he could've used them to gain power, even if this control was only enough for a single slaughter. "Answer me, damn it!"
"Saved our people." - Nerva responded sternly before turning towards the temper that attacked them just moments ago. "Ah, it has already begun…" - A smile emerged on his face as he watched the tempered stand for a few moments before beginning to move again. They drew their blades, bringing them towards their necks. Moments after, rivers of blood streamed from their bodies, drenching the floor in crimson. Every single one of them took their own life with a single slice, silencing themselves forever. And then, Jullus finally understood as he looked at Nerva with shocked eyes and shaking hands.
"Is this…A signal for the whole of Garlemald?"
"Now you understand." - Nerva chuckled. "I forced the beast to use all the strength it had left; this wave would certainly cover the capital." - He spoke with pride, but Nerva was interrupted by Cid's surprised voice.
"Are you saying…That you commanded all of them to end their lives?"
"Of course, what else? I wish I could control them, but alas, it is too dangerous to attempt during the Final Days. I learned that much when I had to run away from the blasphemy that took over this place. And if there is no way for those broken people to be used at all…"
"You would simply discard all of them." - Lucia finished for him. Her quiet voice was full of pain and uncertainty; for once, she didn't seem resolved as she usually was.
"Yes…I would." - After a slight pause, Nerva's tone brimmed with confidence and pride. "There was no way to bring them back, and I would not suffer those pests in our city." - The black knight looked at the remaining soldiers; all of them stared at him in silence, barely able to speak. "Don't you understand? You're free! This signal would kill every single tempered in the capital, every single one! Quintus's stubbornness blinded you, yet as I said, I am not your enemy…" - He said before turning towards Jullus and Lucia once again, his eyes brimmed with anticipation.
"I merely want all of us to reclaim that which is rightfully ours."
He was right, indeed…The time has come for reclamation.
…
Those who survived returned to Tertium to be hailed as heroes. Jullus knew how much they feared failure. They saw the most powerful of their protectors being sent into the fray to fight the blasphemy that took over the dreadful tower, a dangerous undertaking for any soul. And worse yet, they knew that their heroes were not infallible, that there was no defender strong enough to shield them from anything. The news they brought would be a blissful respite, yet they still would be tarnished by bitterness. On their way back, Jullus saw many corpses of the tempered ones, all lying down on the ground with their necks cut and drenched in dry blood. They did not find a single one who was alive. Nerva's plan worked to perfection, and the signal seemed to be strong enough to reach every tempered in the capital. So many comrades, brothers, and sisters were lost in an instant…Even with their mind erased, some climbed on to hope that as long as they were alive, there was a way to save them; there was hope to be found. Now all of those dreams had to be left behind for the sake of Garlean restoration, for the sake of those who survived having a future.
It didn't take long for the people of Tertium to gather around their saviors, showering them with questions. Thankfully, now Jullus felt like he could speak to them.
"People of the Ist…We bear news." - He began, standing with Lucia, Nerva, Licinia, and Cid near the cart with the survivors around them. Those wounded, tired, traumatized people who have seen too much tragedy for one life. "The blasphemy has been vanquished, and the tower is free once again. But even more so…Due to Nerva yae Galvus's swift action, the blasphemy sent a signal that affected every single temper in Garlemald." - Jullus announced, looking at Nerva to continue.
"A signal which contained one clear message. Each would end their own life on the spot, and it worked precisely as intended." - He said with pride, shocking the people that listened to them.
"So…" - A man in the crowd spoke up. "Does this mean that the capital is free? That all the tempered that remained there are gone?"
"Precisely." - Nerva smiled. "It is ours for the taking, ours to reclaim and rebuild now that the path is clear. And this is exactly what I see in your future, untold glory of a nation that faced the end of the world and survived!"
"However…" - Lucia continued, much to Nerva's disappointment. He had to maintain their agreement, even if the outcome displeased him. "There is another path. The Sharlayan Forum is sending its message all across the world, and I bring this message to you. They have devised a method by which the people will gain a chance to leave the star before it is completely annihilated. This invitation extends to you, as well. Those who accept will journey to the moon and then away from the world, to the places where the Final Days cannot reach us. If any of you wish to join them in a voyage to the moon, then I shall help you get to Old Sharlayan, from where you will be taken." - This suggestion was alluring to an extent. Even Jullus could not deny it. He immediately witnessed people whispering to each other in doubt and intrigue. Some would accept this path, and this would be their pejorative.
"It is your choice of whom to follow, and you have the coming day to make your decision." - Jullus announced. "After that, the Ilsabard Contingent promised to withdraw from Garlemald and leave those that remain to reclaim what was left of our city…The choice is yours. Lord Quintus wished for you to have it; this was his last decision before he perished." - Jullus spoke gravely before turning towards Nerva. The time has finally come to settle the scores. He threw a doubtful glance at Licinia, not sure whether he looked for approval or understanding, but her supportive smile was more than enough. Perhaps Quintus would not approve of Jullus's decision; perhaps he would…There was no way of knowing this now, and neither was there any point in looking back.
"What is your answer, then?" - Nerva asked in anticipation.
"I am not doing it because of your birthright." - Jullus sighed. "Despite everything the Galvus family gave our people, in the end, they never cared for us. Even Varis had no choice but to work with his grandfather while keeping secrets from his friends and people." - Jullus spoke the words that would have been deemed heresy just months ago, but few could argue with them anymore. "But you have shown that you care for our people, unlike them, and that you are ready to make difficult decisions…I will not lie to myself, nor to any of you, what you have done in the tower…I don't think I would be able to." - Jullus said with shame, yet it was followed by a sudden relief. He felt as if he had confessed something important of his to his friends, letting a burden off his shoulders. "Not because I don't understand the necessity, but because I wouldn't be able to end so many people to end this bloody conflict. You did, perhaps saving countless lives in the process, and I respect it. If we are to survive in times like these, there are many difficult decisions lying ahead…I trust you more than I do myself in making them." - Jullus confessed, seeing Nerva nod in silence. No glee nor sense of victory, nothing that Jullus would've expected from him, just understanding. After a brief pause, the soldier finally turned towards his people. "So hereby I, Jullus Norbanus, leader of the Ist legion, acknowledge Nerva Galvus's authority and his claim to the throne. Our Legion shall stand by his side in the coming days, and together, I believe we can rebuild Garlemald. I believe we can find a solution to stop or stall the Final Days, like Solus's brethren did. No challenge shall be insurmountable, this I believe!"
Jullus raised his blade, finally feeling inspired, finally hopeful for whatever was to come. This day will be remembered as a victory and a turning point in the history of Garlemald, a day when a terrible sacrifice was made so that others could have a life unburdened by the war that destroyed their entire city. With him making peace with Nerva and the fall of tempered and Zenos, the war that began after Varis's death was finally over. Now there was nothing but a future that they were eager to build together.
And their work has begun today.
…
The coming day passed by much quicker than Jullus expected. The preparations for their return to the capital went underway; there was no point in lingering in Tertium. All of the city, including the tower of Babil, was empty, and the only possible threat was the new blasphemies that could be formed, yet it was unlikely to happen in the near future, not when the people finally got the triumph longer for so much. Of course, not all decided to stay. Around one-third of the Garlean in Tertium made a choice to follow Lucia, be it of their desire to find a new, safer home or their disdain for Nerva. Either way, Jullus accepted their choice and held no contempt toward them. When the Ilsabard Contingent set their foot to Garlemald, the soldier could never imagine their parting being so warm. If anything, what he expected was a slaughter where both sides unleashed all of their power on each other in a desperate battle over the control of the snowy wasteland. But, just like with Solus's return, he had to learn that life was full of surprises. And truth be told, Jullus was more than happy for this to be the case.
When the time came to say their goodbyes, Jullus, Nerva, and Licinia stood near the Tertium's entrance along with Lucia and Cid; despite their differences, working together forged a bond between them. Perhaps not as strong as to undo the grievances they maintained with each other, but enough to remember the day they freed Garlemald together with fondness.
"Everyone who wished for it has been transported to our camp…" - Lucia began when the two groups finally met. "All the preparations are complete, and so it is time for us to go." - She announced with relief while still eyeing Licinia, Jullus, and Nerva. There was something she still wished to say. "You can still join me if you wish. I will make sure to tell the Sharlayans of your heroism; the place on the ark will be yours."
"And you can still bend your knee and stay." - Nerva replied. "But there isn't much point in arguing on this matter. We all know what it is we want to do."
"Well…That much is correct." - Lucia sighed, and Licinia continued.
"As long as everyone could choose, it's all that matters…That's not something Zenos would allow us, after all." - She smiled faintly before throwing a kind glance at Cid. "Thank you once again for saving me; it would've been much harder without the N-Warrior to even find our camp at all."
"It was a pleasure to help out." - Cid smiled before looking over Tertium once again and taking a deep breath. "And thank you for pointing me in a certain direction…I didn't know I needed to see my homeland once again, not after all that happened with Meteor and my father…But I did. As impossible as it is to achieve a proper reconciliation, I'd say this is good enough. Some of us needed a reminder that the Garleans are as much of a people as us, fighting and trying to make the best out of this bloody mess. I just hope that all of our efforts aren't futile."
"I do, too." - Jullus sighed. "But for what it is worth, I can admit I was wrong about you. We here didn't exactly get a flattering picture of defectors, but I can see that the reality…Well, it's a tad more complicated than that. It wasn't an easy decision, I'm sure. I suppose now it doesn't matter, not when we do not even know if anyone in this world will have a future."
"We'll make sure of it." - Cid spoke with resolve. "I know G'raha won't abandon this world, and just like Edwin, he has a talent for finding a way." - Jullus knew little of the Crystal Exarch, but considering that he was able to pierce the fabric of reality twice, perhaps there was some faith to be put in him.
"Only time will tell." - Jullus said. "But while it still flows…I'd say we should do our best and persist."
"No arguments here." - Cid smiled. "We people are stubborn bastards; wouldn't we be the first cataclysm we survived, eh?"
"I know each of us will do our best." - Lucia said confidently. "I don't know if we will ever meet again, so I wish you good luck in whatever you plan to do. Perhaps Nerva will show us a new Garlemald, one free from the tyranny of the ascians."
She extended her hand, the hand Nerva shook.
"You can count on that."
This was the moment of their goodbyes. After sharing the last few words with Cid and Lucia, they left, heading back to Camp Broken Glass, from which their path would lie directly to Eorzea, where they would defend their home from the Final Days or perhaps organize the voyage to the moon. This was their path, and the remaining Garleans had their own.
"And here they go, coming back to their new homes…" - Nerva spoke quietly as he watched Lucia and Cid's silhouettes dissipate amongst the white snowy plains. "And we have much to do." - He promised, noticing Licinia's gaze upon him.
"So…Now that you are our Emperor, what is your plan?"
"To reclaim our city, of course. But first, there are allies on their way here, which we need to greet." - Nerva began, intriguing Jullus.
"Allies?"
"The IVth Legion is on its way, led by their new Legatus, Menenius van Lanatus. I came in contact with him shortly before attempting to breach the tower, and now our communication is restored. He said that he would be eager to take part in the restoration of our Empire. And there are other legions who would follow; soon, we will have an army once again. Come, I will show you what I have in store." - Such confident and bold words…Jullus missed it, as did all of their people.
"Then lead the way." - The young soldier smiled along with Licinia as both were eager to meet their new allies. Perhaps Jullus went back on his loyalties and affiliations, but at this moment, there was only one truth he knew.
Quintus's dream will become a reality. Their home shall be restored.