Sage here. I gotta say, this is quite the irony, that the one who started this arc gets to finish it… Yes, that's right. I said finish. We're finally going to be moving onto a new arc. What arc will that be? Don't ask me, I'm not writing it. In all honesty, it'll be a surprise to me, too. Anyway, I digress. We don't own ToS, we own the individual game(s) we all bought, we own this fic, we own this idea, and I own this chapter. Hahah. ;D Enjoy the last chapter of this arc!

Arc 1, Final Chapter 10 – Loose Ends Tied Up

Lloyd sighed under the helm, still wondering just how he was tricked into putting the armor back on. While it was finally cleaned off, it was still a pain to deal with. And now everything was going by so fast he almost could barely keep up. 'What did happen the past several days, anyway?' He thought, placing his hand beside his helm. He tried to snap his fingers but only heard the clanking of metal. Now he remembered.

The king, fully recovered, had fully knighted him for saving his life. Granted, it was an honor, but he really did not want to accept, not belonging in the timeline and all. However, the king would not take no for an answer. Ah well; he figured it was best. That way, he could make sure the world was saved.

Actually, that was bugging him. He had saved the king and helped Seles and Zelos, but Origin never came back for him. 'If he had come, it would've been a while ago… Maybe there are some things left to do…' he thought, continuing his walk through the halls. But he still had that sinking feeling in his stomach. What was he missing?

Either way, he had been keeping an eye on Princess Hilda. She seemed to be back to normal, but Lloyd knew better. After all, he did experience the hard way that looks were deceiving. But otherwise, things were oddly quiet. He had been working with Werner about locating the Pope. He sighed; Werner worked his men hard. Lloyd felt like he had bulked up a little, but if he did, he could not tell. He was out all day, every day, walking around and asking the shop keeps and other important figures about anything on the Pope; all while fully suited, of course. Werner did not want time wasted with everyone wanting to speak to the Hero of Meltokio. Lloyd fully understood, as he did not want to deal with it himself.

As he walked past Hilda's room, he heard the door crack open. He saw Hilda's head peek out. Lloyd swallowed. Had she known he was walking by? "Excuse me, Sir Knight, but I have need of you for a moment. Could you come into my room, please?"

Lloyd almost flinched but calmed himself. He had to do something to keep her from knowing it was him. "Alright." he said, deepening his voice. He hoped it was deep enough to fool her... He walked into her room, closing the door behind him. "What do you need, my lady?"

She turned around sharply, her eyes narrowed. He saw a strange glimmer in her eyes, but ignored it. "Before anything, I need you to keep quiet about what you hear. Understood?" Lloyd nodded his head. "Good. I need you to assassinate that hero, Lloyd."

'So, she was faking the entire time…' he thought, rolling his eyes. He was glad she could not see through his helm. Perhaps this sack of steel was still useful after all. "Your Highness, why?"

"Because he got in the way of everything." she said, waving her fan at her face. "You will do it, won't you? If not, that's okay… But I don't want you telling anyone or you're dead. I'll see to that." she said, reaching for a large bag of gald. "Well, what's your answer?"

Lloyd did not know what to do. Should he reveal himself and expose her plot? But then it would simply be his word against hers, and she would win. He had to think of something…

'Master of the Pact, look at her eyes.'

'Origin!' Lloyd shouted in his mind. 'Where have you been? Am I done here?'

'Of course not. Look at her eyes. She's still under hypnosis.'

Lloyd looked at Hilda, noticing that strange look in her eyes. 'You're right. But how did you know? Why help me now?'

'Due to your efforts, you have caused this dimension to recover enough balance that I can now speak freely with you. It took time, but things are slowly returning to normal here.'

'That's good, but what should I do?' he asked, looking back at Hilda. He had placed his hand onto his helm, hoping to buy time. However, Hilda started tapping her foot on the ground. 'Should I take it?'

'Yes. Better you being the only one knowing about this than having someone actually try.'

"I'll do it." He watched the smile grow on Hilda's face as she handed him the gald. "I assume this is payment in advance?"

"Yes. Please leave now. I don't want anyone to get suspicious." she said, waving her hand at him. "Oh, and hide the money somewhere."

"Understood, my lady." Lloyd said, placing the bag in his cuirass. He walked out of the door, looking down both ends of the the hallway. Spotting no one, he hurried out, closing the door. He rushed back to his room, bolting both locks. He lifted a small dresser and placed it by the door, just in case. He removed his armor and placed it on top of the dresser. He hopped into bed. He had to get his mind off of it… 'O-Origin, do you know where the Pope is?'

'Sorry, Master of the Pact, I do not know. Even if I did, I could not tell you. I am only here to help you along on things too subtle for you to find, such as the hypnosis. So do not get used to this last minute help. I only intervened because your time was being wasted.'

'Oh, okay…' He closed his eyes; so much for leaving. He looked back at the door, half-expecting there to be a knock. He shook his head. 'So then Origin, can't we at least talk about this?'

'I believe that would fall in my jurisdiction.' Origin paused for a moment to Lloyd's silence. Origin sighed. 'As long as I do not decide for you, I can help you gather your thoughts.'

'Okay, here's what I'm thinking…'

'Alright, just say what we said last night…' Lloyd thought, walking down to the foyer. He was almost there when he saw Werner walking down the hallway. Lloyd stood at attention, knowing Werner would beat on him had he not. "Captain Werner."

Werner stopped in front of Lloyd. "Ah, Lloyd. At ease. I was looking for you." Great, more work. Lloyd groaned quietly; he hoped Werner had not heard that or he was in trouble. "We're going to the wall."

"We found the Pope, Captain?"

"I don't know, but the watch is jittery and I want to know why. We're leaving now, so walk." Lloyd nodded his head and followed him out of the castle doors.

"By the way, Captain, do you know if they did any tests on Princess Hilda for her health?"

"What are you getting at?" Werner immediately turned his head, staring straight at him.

Lloyd hated when Werner did that. It gave him chills; it was another one of Werner's ways of showing authority. "I-I don't know, I was wondering if she had any test to see if she was still under anything."

"I don't like the sound of that…" Werner said, raising his eyebrow and his eyes still staring at him. Lloyd suddenly felt cold. "The doctors didn't do anything like that. We'll take care of the watch and then check in with his Highness. Understood?"

Lloyd nodded his head. "Y-Yes, Captain." he said, looking toward the wall. There were more knights on patrol than usual. They reached the ladder and climbed to the top of the wall. Lloyd had not realized how high the wall was, but then again, he was never usually allowed on it in the first place. He reached the top and removed his helm to get a better view.

"Look!" Werner shouted angrily, pointing off into the distance. There was a large camp of men close to the city. It was settled close to one of the forest edges. "I can't believe that an army of that size sitting just outside of the city!" he turned to the knights on patrol. "I want scouts in that area, now! I want to know how they got that large undetected!" he said, watching as the watch scrambled about. Lloyd was going to follow, but he felt a hand on his shoulder. "No, you're staying here. You're not part of the watch, you're part of my platoon, remember?" he said, smacking Lloyd upside the head. "Now stand still!"

"R-Right, Captain!" Lloyd said, bowing his head. He winced, rubbing his head; no wonder the others respected and feared Werner...

"May I come up? I have information you seek."

Werner and Lloyd looked down to the ground. Lloyd gasped. 'Kratos…'

"Who are you? Only knights are allowed on the wall, and I don't have time for this." Werner shouted down to Kratos, who had not flinched at the booming voice.

"I am a mercenary who knows why an army of that size is outside the city." Kratos said, folding his arms across his chest. "I can give you this knowledge, but in exchange, I want to stand on that wall to get a better view of what is going on."

"Absolutely not! How do we know you're not some spy for that army?"

Kratos raised an eyebrow, an irritated stare on his face. There was no time for this. "If I was a spy, would I snoop around for anything out in the open? Why would I ask to give you information if I was supposedly searching for it?"

Werner gritted his teeth. He had a point, and he wanted to get this taken care of now. "Lloyd, you and the others are going to move in and surround him. I'll let him up, but I want him dead if he tries to make a move. Understood?"

Lloyd nodded his head, feeling the sweat running down his face. He grabbed the spear on his back. Could he… Could he really kill Kratos? "Right, Captain."

"Fine, let him up!"

Kratos uncrossed his arms and walked over to the ladder, climbing it quickly. As he walked to Werner, Lloyd and the knights encircled him. Kratos looked at Lloyd for a moment and then turned to Werner. "I see this is how you accept aid from outside sources."

"Just spit out whatever information you have."

"Very well. Before I entered the city, I was approached by a pair of knights. They looked different from the knights I usually see around Meltokio and grew intrigued. However, their proposition was ludicrous." he said, turning his head toward the army outside the city. "They thought I would help them defeat the knights and claim the city in the name of the Pope."

Werner growled angrily, closing his eyes. "So that's the Pope's army."

"Yes. I later found that they were Papal Knights, the Pope's personal knights. But the bulk of his men are mercenaries hoping to score big by helping the Pope. I'm sure some even have a grudge against the knights and the Royal Family as well." Kratos said, shaking his head. "I do not have a grudge nor do I need such money. So I turned them down."

Werner crossed his arms over his chest, shaking his head. It sounded like something the Pope would do, now at least. "That all?"

"Not quite. From what I heard, they will be attacking soon. Given that I was asked within the week and given roughly five days to appear at the camp for instructions…"

Werner turned his head at the campsite, spotting a lone rider approaching the city. "…It means that they are planning to move today." he said, spotting a lone rider approaching the wall. He grabbed his shield and held it in front of him. "And who might you be?"

"I am a messenger for the Pope!" he said, turning his horse around for a quick escape. "The Pope demands that the Tethe'allan Royal Knights surrender and the Royal Family step down from power! In exchange, he will not harm the citizens of Meltokio and he will restore Princess Hilda's mind back to normal."

Werner turned back to Lloyd. "So you were right." Werner whispered to Lloyd, raising an eyebrow. "How did you know?"

"I was heading back to my room when Princess Hilda's door opened. She wanted me to go into her room, but she didn't it was me since I wore my helm. She wanted me to assassinate, well, myself. I accepted so no one would kill me. But there was something strange about her eyes that didn't seem normal." Lloyd said, pausing. "Oh, I can show you the bag of money she offered me for taking the job if-"

"There's no need, I believe you." Werner said, returning his attention to the messenger. "And if we don't comply?"

"Then we will attack the city full front, burn everything we see in sight, and forcefully take the castle. You have until this time tomorrow to come to your decision." he said, galloping away before the archers could advance.

Werner pounded his fists onto the tip of the wall. "Dammit!"

"Captain, what are we going to do?" Lloyd wanted to do something to stop this, but he could not just sneak away without talking to Werner first; not unless he wanted Werner to have his hide.

Werner stared at his fists. "I don't know. We can't go out there and leave the city defenseless, but we can't just fight within the city and risk the citizens getting hurt." he said, staring out angrily at the army. "I will get that man if it's the last thing I do!"

"Perhaps I could be of assistance." Kratos said, hand reaching to his sword. "I do not particularly need payment for this, if that is what you are worried about. I just felt that since I was already involved, that I would lend my services, cheaply, I might add."

"Why should I let you get involved in our affairs?"

"Do you have a choice? You are going to need all the help you can at this point, and I am offering." Kratos turned his eyes to Lloyd. "If it will ease your nerves, you could send that young man with me, to keep an eye on me."

Lloyd pointed to himself. "M-Me?"

"Yes, you. Your Captain cannot send too many men out, as he needs to fortify defenses within the city, do you not?" he said, turning to Werner, who grumbled angrily. "I see you will accept?"

"You're right. What choice do we have?" he said, turning to Lloyd. "But you're keeping an eye on him. I hear something happens to him, I'll kill you myself." he said, pointing to his sword. "Nobody hurts my boys and gets away with it."

Kratos waved his hand. "I assure you, nothing will happen to him."

"Lloyd, you alright going with him?"

"Yes. I'll go without my armor. It'll only get in the way."

"I don't care how you do it right now, I just want the Pope. We'll need a plan first. Let's head to a meeting place."

It was an awkward trip so far. While Lloyd was free from the armor and could use his swords, he was now with Kratos. Normally, he would have been happy, but they had not spoken once. Was Kratos testing him, or did he want him to speak first? Not having the courage to break the silence, he remained quiet. He turned his head and saw Kratos staring at him. "Y-Yes?"

Kratos narrowed his eyes. "Are you really 'Lloyd Aurion' or is that just an alias?"

"Huh?" he said, looking away. "Yeah, it is, why?"

Kratos simply stared harder at him, as if trying to peer into his soul. "The name 'Aurion' is quite rare these days, even in Tethe'alla. In fact, I am pretty sure I am the only one left with that last name. Not only that, I had a son named Lloyd. He died when he was an infant. Shall we try this again?"

Lloyd gasped and backed away from Kratos. "I died…?" he said, not realizing that he said that out loud; he heard Kratos gasp loudly. Lloyd widened his eyes in fear. What had he done?

"What… do you mean? Are you really… Lloyd Aurion?" Lloyd remained silent, looking away. "No more silence. I must know. Tell me."

Lloyd stared numbly at Kratos, eyes trembling. He quickly looked away again. He tried to find his words, since there was no avoiding it now. "I, uh… I have… two names. One is Lloyd Irving…" he paused, biting his lip. He grabbed his left elbow with his right hand, holding it tightly. "The other is Lloyd… Aurion."

"H-How…" Kratos looked away, tightening his fingers into a fist. Now was not the time. "We will continue this later. We have work to do." Kratos said, bending down and shifting the leaves. He turned his head to Lloyd. "I must ask - are you my son?"

Lloyd stopped shifting the leaves and turned to Kratos, a smile on his face. "If you mean I'm still your son, then yeah, I am, I guess. Just… from a different you, if you get what I mean…" he said, rubbing the back of his head. "I have a hard time explaining things." he said as he placed the trap into the pile.

"It is fine." Kratos said, placing another trap down into the pile of leaves. The silence reigned on as they continued working. He wanted to finish this first, but the questions were eating at his mind. His son was supposedly in front of him. How could he resist? Maybe… one more question. It may be beneficial to this mission. "What do you know about me?"

Lloyd stood up after covering up the trap, stretching. "Who you are, how old you are, about Cruxis… That kind of stuff."

Kratos felt slightly awkward at Lloyd's words; he did not expect that sort of answer. He shifted his gaze to the forest they were in; the foliage was darkened by the night. The treetops were thick enough to block the view of the sky, leaving the ground almost pitch black. 'Wait… How is he…?' How did Lloyd know where he was putting the traps? How did he know where to step and not blow himself up? Kratos looked downward. "Are you, like me, an…"

Lloyd knelt onto one knee to finish his side of the pile, a weak smile on his face. "Yeah, I'm an angel. Well, I have wings and all. But sometimes I still need to sleep and eat. I guess it hasn't started yet." he said with a shrug. "Anyway, I thought you wanted to wait talking about it?"

"I did say that, but I suppose I could not help it. I thought knowing a bit more would help us." he said, looking off to the side in order to find the next place to set up their plan. "Alright, over here, and be quick." he said, rushing over to another area of the forest. "Now it is time for these." he said, holding up the rope. "You cut down some branches while I get the ropes in order."

"Alright." he said, pulling out Flameberge; he did not want to use it carelessly, but he needed to finish this quickly and Flameberge's fire would help. He quickly climbed a nearby tree. After looking around, he quickly swiped through the first branch, catching it in his free arm. He gently lowered it to the ground and cut another branch. He continued until Kratos came over to pick them up, tying the rope to the ends of them.

"Alright, I think we have enough." he said, tying the last knot. "With enough force, this should knock them out, if not cause death." he said, placing them onto the thickest branch on the tree. "Can you handle these branches yourself?"

"Yeah, I think I can. I can at least lift them fine enough…" he said, jumping down onto the ground. "What's next?"

Kratos sighed, looking at the plans. "More trap placing, but do you need rest?"

Lloyd shook his head. "Not really. I got a lot of rest earlier, and I can go a few days without sleeping and eating. I'm okay. I'm actually kind of excited… Besides, don't you have the hardest part? I mean, you have to fire that hand cannon, and you only have one shot."

Kratos smirked. "Do not worry about that. Since you would know me so well, you should know that I can operate anything."

"I suppose that's true. It's just… I never really… learned as much about you as I wanted to." Lloyd looked away, a frown exposed on his face. His thoughts turned to his Kratos. What was he doing right now? Was he okay? Did he leave… only to kill himself?

Kratos frowned. He half wondered what Lloyd meant, but something told him he did not want to know yet. "Alright, we still have a few more things to do." he said, placing his hand on Lloyd's shoulder. Kratos hoped it was enough to comfort him.

Lloyd looked up to see Kratos' hand on him, and it was surprising. Unfamiliar. Foreign. The only time he had seen his Kratos attempt to comfort him was when they found out how exspheres were made. Lloyd wanted to smile back. He wanted to call him 'Dad.' He wanted to know everything was fine. But he could not; he did not belong here. Plus would he be betraying his dad? His Kratos?

"Come, we have to hurry and finish our preparations." Kratos said, moving on to the next location.

"Phew…" Lloyd said, falling onto the ground. "I'm glad we finished this before Captain Werner left."

"Indeed." Kratos said, leaning back on a tree. "Though is he really your captain? I do not see how that would be possible."

Lloyd chuckled weakly. "Yeah, he is, actually. I'm on a mission and was told to see the King. I snuck into the castle and found myself in the armory. Not wanting to get caught, I pretended to be a knight. Long story short, they ended up believing I was a knight from the start after saving Seles and Zelos and promoted me from recruitment status. And I was assigned to Captain Werner for being the 'Hero of Meltokio.' I guess they thought that I should learn things from him or something." he said, rubbing his head. "Even though Captain Werner knows how to scare you, he's really a respectable man."

"I see. Though returning to before, if you know I am your father of sorts, how would you not know a lot about me?"

Lloyd looked away, trying to hide the saddened look on his face. "It's still a bit of a sore spot, really. I wasn't… raised by you. After we finished our journey with my friends, you decided to… go and leave with Derris-Kharlan. You left before I got to know a lot about you." he said, biting his lip to keep himself from crying. He bit even harder.

Kratos stared at Lloyd. So he had crossed a line, as well as hearing a confusing end to Lloyd's journey. He would have to ask about that later. "I am sorry. I did not know that was what happened." He felt his anger rising; how could he just leave like that? "I cannot believe that he would leave like that, leaving you to fend for yourself. He does not understand what he just gave up."

Lloyd felt a tear run down his face and wiped his cheek dry. He hoped Kratos did not see it. "You mean because I died?"

"Yes. I… would die if it meant being with you again. But it seems I don't need to." Kratos looked down at his trembling hands. It appeared that he was holding an imaginary infant in his arms. "When I saw that you had died, that I had lost everything, I became nothing. Eventually, I just returned to Cruxis, defeated." he said, his hands dropping to his sides, as if the imaginary infant disappeared. "I recovered and went on as if nothing happened. I had just come down to see if Yuan was actually preparing for the Regeneration Journey. And check in with Origin, which I had done right before coming here. Then I was to check the ranches."

"So, that's why you came down…" he said, looking away. So Seles was getting ready for the journey after all. He lowered his shoulders, thoughts drifting back to Seles. She had no idea what she was getting into. But the question was how could save her and still keep her trust? And not only that, but the Desians and human ranches were here? He shook his head when he heard Kratos cough loudly. "Sorry, got lost in thought…"

"So I see." he said, folding his arms across his chest. He ignored the look he saw. "Yes, however, I did not see him, so he must be still getting ready. As I was about to leave, I heard you call out to me. And you know the rest."

Lloyd sighed. "Yeah… It kind of slipped on instinct. It's gotten me in trouble a couple of times..." he said, curling his legs up and wrapping his arms around them. "I guess I sort of hoped that… there was something there. That you would know who I was."

"So you could learn about me?" he said, watching as Lloyd slowly nodded his head. Kratos sighed. "I have no son to learn about. If you will, we could learn about each other." He saw the confused look on Lloyd's face. "I know we are not exact family. However, regardless of that, we are still related by blood, until proven wrong."

Lloyd grinned, happy that the darkness was swallowing his tears. After a long moment of thick emotion, he choked. Kratos had suddenly enveloped him in a bear hug, one he'd never, ever have gotten out of him back on his world. After several more moments that felt long enough to fit three days into, Kratos released him. "Thank you," he said, sniffing loudly.

Kratos placed an arm over Lloyd's shoulder, rubbing his back. "No, thank you." He pulled him slightly closer so he could use both his arms to hug him. He looked down at Lloyd.

Lloyd smiled as he looked up to Kratos. So what if he was betraying his Kratos? Kratos betrayed him first by leaving. Two wrongs never made a right, but it still felt wonderful to know one Kratos wanted him as a son. And that never felt better.

"Would you like to travel with me for a bit before I visit the ranches?"

"I don't know if I can, with my journey and all…" Lloyd said, shifting his eyes away. "I'd need some time to find out."

"That would be enough."

Lloyd was excited. Nervous. It was time to start. He knew he was could do this, but that did not mean he was ready. He almost wished that Kratos would hurry up already. The silence was killing him.

Suddenly, there was a loud explosion. Men were screaming, though in agony or anger, it varied. He was glad he was straddled across the large branch; he was afraid he would fall off when he lifted the branches. He just hoped that Werner heard the shot; that was his cue to move. He waited for men to show, the nearest branch in his hands.

'Now!' He threw the branch when a couple waves of men ran toward him. He heard them scream as the branch swung quickly toward them, followed by the disturbing cracks of bones breaking. He saw them fall back onto the ground, wrapping their hands around their chests and screaming harder at their broken ribs. They crashed into the men behind them, knocking them down as well.

"Careful! There are trip wires somewhere!" One of the men said, looking around frantically. Lloyd almost laughed, but held it in. He slowly made his way to the next branch, making sure to remain quiet. Just as they were about to pass, he threw it. He heard skulls crack, the men in front now remaining still. He shuddered; seemed Kratos tied that one too high.

As he continued tossing branches, he heard screams in the distance. Seemed like they found the mine traps they placed. If only Kratos would show up and let him know how many men were after them. He figured he should just keep working until then. He threw the next branch, striking another line of men in the chest, and knocking those behind them down. There were still some left. Was this their entire force?

Another scream echoed through the forest, followed by the sound of a stabbing. He looked down and found Kratos behind them, killing them where they stood. Perhaps Kratos had led some of them to the mines. He rushed to the next branch, throwing it immediately after they stood up. He could hear their panicking screams as they looked around, trapped by Kratos and the falling branches.

They turned around to Kratos, getting onto their knees. "If you wish to live, then by all means, run. All you have to do is never turn your blade against the knights again." Lloyd watched as they ran for their lives, not knowing of the mines that were planted on their path. They only ran to their doom. Kratos walked over toward Lloyd. "A shame they blew themselves up."

Lloyd tensed a bit. "Aren't there others?"

"I took out about a quarter of them alone with the shot I made. Then over half of the mercenaries chased after me. By then, I had hidden myself until they passed me. They split up trying to find me and ended up stepping on a great deal of the mines we placed earlier."

"Oh." he said, raising an eyebrow. "So then should we hurry to Captain Werner then, or find out if anyone else chased you into the forest?"

"Let us head for the army base camp. You never know how the knights are fairing." Lloyd nodded his head, following as Kratos took off at a quick clip. As they ran for the camp, Kratos turned his head around slightly. "Oh, and excellent work with the branches, Lloyd. You did me proud."

Lloyd felt a blush growing on his face. It was awkward to hear Kratos compliment him like that. "Th-Thanks."

"Alright, let us hurry." he said, running further toward the forest edge. He could see the light shining in from the sun. "This way."

"Alright, alright…" They ran out into the clearing where the Pope's army was camped and found it a bloody massacre. Lloyd widened his eyes; he could see where the explosion Kratos caused ended up, a ton of corpses lining the crater. Blood was pooling into it, and he was sure some of the bodies were slowly sliding in as well. He turned his head and saw where some of the Papal Knights had fallen, along with a few of the Royal Knights. It seemed their diversion was a success.

"Stay here, I am checking for the Pope." Kratos said, running into the tent. He quickly ran back outside. "It would seem that the Pope has run off." he said. He suddenly turned his head to the side. "Lloyd, did you hear that?"

"Yeah, vaguely." Lloyd said, rubbing his ears gently. "My hearing isn't as good as yours, though. Did it sound like metal?"

"Yes, and it came from this way." Kratos spotted a carriage with both the Papal and Royals Knights surrounding it, fighting. "Lloyd, look. Come, we must help."

Lloyd nodded his head, unsheathing his swords. He looked around and spotted the carriage, the Papal Knights currently surrounding it. The Pope had to be there. But first, they had to get rid of the Papal Knights. While one was preoccupied with the Royal Knights, Lloyd slashed him in the back. The knight next to him turned to see his fallen comrade and quickly blocked Lloyd's strike with his lance, only to get stabbed by a Royal Knights. He turned to spot Werner. "Captain!"

"Hey boy, glad you made it back alive." Werner said, slashing the next knight beside him. "We have the Pope trapped in his carriage. Let's finish this and then take him back to the city."

"Right, Captain."

"Lloyd! I'm so glad you're alright. We were getting worried about you." Seles said, hugging him.

Lloyd flinched, hugging back hesitantly; his armor rang in the hall. He mentally sighed at having to wear it, but he technically was a knight here, and it was better to simply comply than resist. At least now he was allowed to go without wearing that helm. "Sorry for worrying you two. Where's Zelos?"

"He's outside in the courtyard with a couple knights, practicing with a dagger he had received. He really looks up to you and wants to protect me and himself. I've never seen him so energetic before."

Lloyd chuckled. "This I have to see."

Seles linked his arm with hers. "Well then, let's go." she said, walking down the hallway. She saw the confused look on his face and giggled. "I guess you aren't used to this sort of thing."

He blushed a bit. "Not really…"

"I figured. When walking around the castle with me or Princess Hilda, you must walk with them by linking your arm. It's etiquette."

"Ah, I get it… Thanks."

Seles waved her free hand. "It is nothing." she said, pointing to the door in front of them. "This way leads to the courtyard Zelos is at. Let's hope that we don't disturb him."

"Yeah." he said, pushing the door open for the both of them with his free hand. The sun shined brightly into their eyes; they covered their eyes with their hands. Once their eyes adjusted to the light, Lloyd found the knights standing on both sides of Zelos, holding their shields up. Meanwhile, Zelos slashed at the shields with his dagger. "He almost looks like he's having fun."

"It seems that way, though for better or worse, who is to say?" she said, walking closer to them and thus forcing Lloyd to walk as well. She hoped she was still out of sight, but she saw Zelos notice them. Quickly sheathing his dagger, he charged off to Seles, hugging her. "It's nice to see you too, Zelos."

Zelos chuckled. "Yeah. And Lloyd! I'm so glad you're safe!" he said, tackling him as well.

Lloyd gasped lightly on impact, laughing immediately afterwards. "Thanks, Zelos. Sorry to have worried you. I see you're training with a dagger now?"

"Yeah!" he said, pulling it out. "They say with my weight and height I can't handle a sword just yet, so they let me have this dagger instead."

Looking a bit closer, Lloyd could tell it was single edged. He figured it was best; they did not want Zelos to injure himself. "Hey, you should put that away if you're not going to use it. You don't want to get hurt."

Zelos blushed slightly, chuckling weakly. "Yeah… But I'm just glad you're back safe."

"Well, I'm glad to be back. And we have the Pope, too."

"Yes, I heard about that." Seles said, turning her head to them. "I also heard that some mercenary helped you, Captain Werner and the knights in capturing the Pope."

"Ah, yeah. He's staying at the inn right now, but I think his Majesty wishes to give him some reward for helping." he said. He himself had just gotten his reward for helping capture the Pope. He looked down at the sword strapped to his waist. He immediately felt his back, the shield sitting their comfortably. He smiled; the King really was generous to let him use a sword, even if it came with a shield. He did not truly know why the King gave him a sword, but at least he could use one now.

"Well, I must be off. Zelos, please make sure not to hurt yourself or the knights, alright?" Seles said, hugging him. "Lloyd, will you be staying here?"

"Yeah. I want to enjoy the courtyard for a while longer. I'll be over there enjoying the view, and watching Zelos practice with his dagger."

"Alright. Keep an eye on him, please, if you will." she said, waving as she entered the hallway.

Lloyd turned his head to Zelos. "Alright, why don't you head back and give it another go?"

Zelos nodded his head, a grin on his face. "Right!"

Lloyd watched him run off, deciding to jump attack the knight's shield. Lloyd laughed; he would have done that himself. He walked to the bench and sat down. At least it was away from the noise; it gave him time to think.

There was something about this dimension that made him feel sad to leave behind. He knew he had to leave, but… He was not sure what it was. The way his accomplishments were rewarded... Even when he and the others saved the king, all the wanted them to do was leave. But when he saved this king, he was promoted. Granted, he was never a knight to begin with, but that did not stop the king. Not that the king knew that.

And when he helped capture the Pope, the king commended and rewarded him with his sword and shield. It was all so foreign to him, getting rewarded for his heroics. But at the same time, it felt great; it felt like he was appreciated, that he was making a difference. And being a knight was not that bad once he got used to it. And not only that, he found a father here. This Kratos wanted to be his father. He did not give up on him; in fact, Kratos needed him. And that made him happy.

He half-wished he could stay. He sighed; Origin would never allow that. But perhaps he could extend how long he was here for, so he could spend some time with Kratos. But how?

'Master of the Pact, you have done well to save this dimension. This world will now flourish as it should.'

'Thanks.'

'Well then, shall we head out?'

'We-Well, there are some things that I need to do here first.'

'Like what? You know time is essential. We cannot have you lingering here when there are other dimensions hanging in the balance.'

'I know, but I can't rush out of here without some reason. It wouldn't be right to just disappear like that, after doing all that I did here. That would add some weird mystery or something.'

'I suppose this is true. However, time is a factor, and you cannot stay forever. Fine then, I will give you a little over a week to prepare for your departure. Understood?'

'Understood. Thanks, Origin.'

'Do not make me regret this.'

Lloyd sighed contently. That bought him some time to spend with Kratos, and some time to figure out how to get himself out of here quietly. That did mean he had to continue his duties as a knight, though. Shaking his head, he got up; since he knew he was staying for a while longer, perhaps he should enjoy it. He walked over to Zelos and pulled off his shield. Maybe he could learn how to use it. "May I join?"

"Of course, Sir Lloyd. My arm was starting to get tired." the knight said, backing away. He placed his shield onto his back and watched as Lloyd took his place.

"Thanks." Lloyd said, positioning the shield to a height Zelos could reach. "Now come on, Zelos. Let's see how hard you can hit."

Lloyd wandered the halls, watching the maids bow their heads in recognition. He was getting used to this; perhaps that was a bad thing, he realized. He glanced at Hilda's door. Suddenly, the door opened and Hilda peeked out. "Oh, Sir Lloyd, excuse me." she paused, looking downward. "I was… just about to look for you. Would you come into my room, please? It is fairly urgent."

Lloyd felt a lump in his throat. Was she still under hypnosis? He doubted it now, but the possibility was there. He could not refuse her, though. "Of course, Lady Hilda." he said, walking into her room. "What do you need?"

She kept her head down, rubbing her eyes. "I must apologize. Not to have you on alert, but while I was under hypnosis, I ordered someone to assassinate you. I am trying to find that individual now as we speak, so I thought I should warn you…"

Lloyd sighed in relief. "Your highness, you don't need to worry about that. I was the one you asked. You just didn't know it was me."

She gasped loudly, placing her hand to her mouth. "Oh thank goodness! I was afraid the individual I hired would go through with it…"

"So you remember everything, my lady?"

Hilda looked up with watering eyes. "Yes, mostly. I… plotted to kill my father. I still cannot believe that I was tricked through such powerful hypnosis…" she said, tears running down her face.

"No no, don't be too upset by it. It wasn't your fault, and everything worked out in the end." Lloyd said with a smile, raising his hand. "Please, I know that you're upset, but there's nothing to worry about."

"Oh… Thank you, Sir Lloyd. You are being too kind…" she said, wiping her eyes dry with a tissue. "There is… something else I wish to ask of you…" she said, turning away to blow her nose. "I apologize, that was very unwomanly…"

Lloyd tilted his head, raising his eyebrow. "It's fine, my lady, but what else do you need?"

She looked away. "Well, I am turning seventeen soon. Time is running short for me to make a particular decision before I am forced into it. Father is allowing me time, but I do not have much longer. I suppose to get to the point… Sir Lloyd, you are a hero to Meltokio and the Royal Family, and serve us as a knight. You have favor with both the Chosen and Master Zelos. And thus I ask if you would take my hand in marriage and be my husband."

Lloyd gasped, eyes shooting wide open. "If that is too much, I would like for us to at least conceive a child so that we may have an heir for the throne." she said, sitting on her bed. "I understand I threw a lot at you at once, but please, give it some thought. I do not wish to have your response now."

"W-When would you like it?"

"I would like it within the month, if you are able. I thank you for hearing me out." she said, bowing her head. "You may take your leave, if you wish."

Lloyd bowed his head. "Thank you, Lady Hilda." he said, walking out the door. He needed to find Kratos, and fast. This was not what he had in mind when he wanted to stay for a bit longer…

Lloyd paced around his room. He looked out his window again. Nothing. He sighed, returning to his pacing. 'Something wrong, Master of the Pact? Do you understand the consequences of your choices now?'

'Origin! So you did know this would happen…'

'Of course. You only learn when you experience them, do you not? I knew of your motives and chose to take care of this problem now. Unlike other worlds, this world is not as dangerous for you to stay in and learn from your mistakes.'

'I guess you're right... So now what?'

'We remain on this course. You were right about vanishing so suddenly, and we must have time to prepare. However, I am willing to admit I am not happy with your reasons for staying.' Lloyd gasped, widening his eyes before looking away. So Origin knew... 'There are other dimensions far more tempting than this one, and this is only your first mission. You must strengthen your will if you are to finish this journey.'

Lloyd sighed, throwing his head down. 'Sorry. It's just…' he said, turning his eye to the window. 'This Kratos actually wants me around. I just thought I'd… spend some time with him before I left.'

'If that was the case, you should have simply allowed him to accompany you.' Lloyd twitched his eye a bit, raising his eyebrow. He fell silent. 'Not everyone you know can simply follow you and I will not allow permit it simply because you wish it. However, if they have a connection to any Origin, they can breach the time-space rift and travel with you.'

'What? Then if that's the case, why couldn't my friends just come with me?'

'Because only you and Pact Maker Sheena have a connection with me, and she is needed back on our world. You simply cannot leave our world defenseless, am I correct?' Lloyd slowly nodded his head. 'At any rate, this Kratos has a connection to this Origin, and can technically travel with you. However, there will be times where he cannot accompany you, for various reasons. The choice, as always, is up to you.'

'Why didn't I know about this sooner?'

'Because you did not ask?' He hated when Origin had a point. 'I must warn you, however. This ability is also granted to enemies as well, so be on your guard. But for now, we will have to discuss a way for you to get out of this predicament, and I believe Kratos can help.'

"You said you needed to see me?" Lloyd turned around to find Kratos landing on the floor, instantly withdrawing his wings. He stepped away from the window. "It seemed as if you had a problem. And because I am here, we should talk softly so we do not get any unwanted visitors."

"Yeah, and I do. It seems that Princess Hilda wants me to marry her. It's either that or have a child together."

Kratos raised his eyebrow. "She wishes to marry you? On what ground? It sounds as if she plans to have you marry her regardless."

"It's because I'm the hero who saved her and His Majesty and captured the Pope. And I have favor with Seles and Zelos…" he said, placing his hand onto his forehead. "I've become too famous."

Kratos chuckled darkly. "So it would seem. And you must continue with your journey, yes?"

"Yeah. We have a week to think of something so I can leave without any kind of trouble."

"I think we can come up with something." Kratos said, folding his arms across his chest.

Lloyd turned to Kratos. "Oh, and I… spoke with my world's Origin. He said if I choose to and want to, we can travel together on my journey."

Kratos gasped, lowering his head. "So Origin was right. He said the same thing."

"You can speak with Origin too?"

"I am the seal, after all." Kratos paused, looking away. "I would like to go, but I do not know what would happen if I suddenly vanished from here."

Lloyd shifted his eyes away. "Well, we have time to think it over, since I'm still staying here for a bit longer. We can decide then."

"Alright."

"What? What do you mean he is…?" Hilda shouted at the messenger, eyes fully opened.

"During his investigation of resistance activity in the slums, an explosion occurred. His body was charred beyond recognition, but we have proof that it is indeed him." The messenger bowed his head. "I am terribly sorry, my lady."

Hilda lowered her head as tears fell down her face. "I… I understand." she said, waving the messenger to leave. She stumbled over to the king. She collapsed onto the ground, one of her heels flying off her foot and her head falling onto his lap. She paid no attention to the pain on her ankle. "Father, I… cannot believe he can be gone…" she said with a sob, burrowing her face. "I… no… This cannot be… happening…"

The king rubbed Hilda's back, a frown on his face. "I am truly sorry, Hilda. I know how much you felt for him. He was an amazing young man."

"I… I do not know what to do… I… I was actually happy when he was nearby. I truly felt…" she paused, continuing to cry. She looked up at the king, her make-up slowly beginning to wash away and becoming a mess. Her eyes were already starting to become swollen. She gritted her teeth. "Why? Why…? Why did he…have to…?" She slid off of the king's lap, crashing onto the floor. She pounded the floor with anguished fury, ignoring the numbing of her hands with each blow. "Why?"

The king called for one of the maids. "Please, get me the doctors. I believe she may have hurt herself." he said, turning his head away. "Also, send a message to the Chosen and Young Zelos, please. I do not know where they are on the Regeneration Journey, but… Send the message to Sybak, and have them wait for further instructions if they are not there."

"Right away, your Highness."

He stared quietly as Hilda pounded the floor again. He wished there was something he could do to make her feel better again. But nothing would ease her pain right now. And that stung more than anything else.

Hilda pounded the floor one last time before collapsing fully onto the ground, too tired to even stand. She continued to cry, her sobs echoing mournfully through the throne room. "No! Lloyd…" She then fell silent, unable to move, unable to speak another word. Only silence. Tearful, choking silence.

"Are you sure you won't be linked to the explosion?" Lloyd said, looking back at Meltokio. He was half-sad to see it so far away, but he had to move on.

"Yes, do not worry. I did not wear these clothes and kept my head hidden. It is a bit embarrassing, but I have done something like this before."

Lloyd raised an eyebrow. "Really now? I wouldn't have guessed…" he said, his left eye twitching slightly. He really did not need to know that Kratos knew how to be an arsonist. "But are you sure that they won't be heading to the Temple of Darkness first?"

"Of course. We always sent them off to the Temple of Earth first, being the closest and easiest. The Temple of Darkness is more challenging, so we normally save it for last. Either way, we are fine."

"Okay." Lloyd looked down at the wingpack Kratos gave him, his armor and weapons within it. It was a good thing he could keep them; they may be useful later on, even if he had to wear that armor again. Which hopefully would not happen soon. At he could take what he learned here for the next time around. 'Origin, are you ready?'

'Yes. Have you made a choice regarding Kratos?'

'Yeah. Where can we meet?'

'We can meet here.'

"Kratos, Origin said we can land right around here." Lloyd said, looking down for a clear landing. He dived downward before he swung upward slightly; Kratos followed. His wings flapped to steady him before landing. "Anyway, would you… like to come with me?"

Kratos turned his head with a smile. "I would, as long as I am able to show myself here every so often to keep Yggdrasill and Yuan off guard." he said, looking up toward the sky. "I should be fine now, since I returned to Derris Kharlan briefly."

"But won't you get in trouble later?"

"No, they are aware of me vanishing for months at a time. I usually have to check the maintenance of the Desian ranches after all, and I can do them whenever I wish. Yuan usually vanishes around this time, though now he has an excuse with the Chosen's Journey. And Yggdrasill finds the task unbefitting him, so he does not give time restrictions."

"So only you actually do it…" Lloyd said with a sigh, shaking his head. "But Origin said you can't help me sometimes, but for what reason, I don't really know. All I know is that you can head back here then." 'Can he?'

'I can manage that.'

"Yeah, Origin can send you back here every so often. So then will you come?"

Kratos smiled. "I told you, as long as I come back here, I will go with you."

"Alright!" Lloyd said with a grin, pumping his fist into the air. "Let's get going then!"

Note from the Headmistress: Hey ya'll! This is how the new arc is going to work. The options are purely open. Think of a new world with new possibilities and write about it. The voters will look over the new chapters and vote for the one they like. If there's only one chapter, obviously we'll be following their lead, so if you don't like it, change it! Have a hand in the fate of the story and write with new ideas! The only thing you'll need is to have the following written as an intro to your chapter (and these will not be posted with the final chapter. Anyone who has interest in writing the next chapter throughout this arc will be given these notes): 1. The differences between the cannon world and your new world (such as Seles being chosen), 2. The issue with the world (why is it failing?) 3. The solution to the problem (what has to be done to fix it?). Also bear in mind what Lloyd has already experienced in previous chapters. To keep it all straight, I am working on compiling notes for someone to receive when they express interest in writing the next chapter. If you have any questions, come to the forum, PM, or Email Snophoenix at gmail dot com. As always, have fun! And remember, without participation, this story will not update! :)

-Snophoenix