Code Fantasy - R0: Warriors of Light

by DarkFusion

One year prior to his fated meeting that will grant him the Geass, Lelouch is offered power from a different Source in exchange for becoming a hero for more than just one world. In doing so he finds himself down a path of heroism that he will be anything but alone in walking, yet this path will lead into conflict with foes more fearsome than what Britannia could bring.

4. Chapter 4: As Paths Converge

AN: Well, I know it's been a while folks, but here we are with chapter 4 and I can at least say it's got enough in it to hopefully be worth your wait. I thank all who have reviewed, followed and favorited this story so far. You give me inspiration to continue on with this crossover fic.

Disclaimer: The following is a fan-based writing, Code Geass belongs to Bandai Entertainment, Sunrise, MBS, Funimation and Ichiro Okouchi. Final Fantasy 14 belongs to Square Enix with major props to Naoki Yoshida/Yoshi-P and his dedicated team at Square Enix's Creative Business Unit III for its continuous great quality. Please support the official release.

Chapter 4: As Paths Converge

Eorzea: Lower La Noscea: Moraby Drydocks

Lelouch took one last look as the guards took away the now defeated roegadyn pirate Ahtzapfyn and his crew. Of the jobs he'd been taking the last couple of weeks, circumstances had led him to the Moraby Drydocks where what was to become the flagship of the city-state's navy, a large ironclad warship called the Victory, was near completion. From there the former prince had become acquainted with the ship's builder, a roegadyn man named Ahtbyrm, only to soon become embroiled in a pirate attack made to destroy the ship. With Lelouch's involvement the attack was thwarted easily enough, though the ex-royalty turned adventurer found himself nursing a coming headache at the revelation that the reason behind this was the offending pirate captain was Ahtbyrn's father and destroying the ship was some petty way of showing his disapproval at his son's decision to live an honest life.

In a way Lelouch could sympathize with the roegadyn shipwright in having a less than pleasant relationship with his father, though nowhere near as antagonistic as his own as by the end of the conversation prior to Ahtzapfyn's arrest Ahtbyrm was more a combination of embarrassed and annoyed (at the little damage the pirates had managed to do) than angry. As a result, the ex-royal arcanist had been tasked with conveying the shipwright's apologies to the local captain of city-state's Grand Company, a roegadyn woman named Ghimthota. From there, along with what he couldn't deny was flattering praise for his actions, Lelouch soon learned that the Yellowjackets had quickly begun a combination of investigating and interrogating Ahtzapfyn and his crew: first inquiries about any connection with Doesmaga revealed they were the furthest thing from allies yet only had a few rumors to give about possible locations, but second and more importantly, a strange missive was found among Ahtzapfyn's belongings. The strange thing about it was it was clearly in some kind of code, and the Yellowjackets' decoder of choice was none other than the proprietor of the Drowning Wench, Baderon.

Not surprisingly, the task of delivering this encoded message directly into Baderon's hands was given to Lelouch rolled up and sealed who wasted no time in teleporting to Limsa Lominsa and upon arrival made straight for the Drowning Wench.

"Ahoy there, Lelouch! I've been 'earin' about your deeds at the Drydocks!" Baderon greeted the prince turned adventurer as he approached the bar.

"Information must travel fast," Lelouch commented. "It's only been a few hours since then."

"Ahtbyrm laid out the entire tale fer me." The other explained. "Poor sod was still reelin' at 'is old man's part in the business, but at least ye kept the Victory from bein' sunk afore she'd sailed. An' fer that I owe ye me thanks!"

"You're welcome, though I'm certain any good adventurer would have done the same." Lelouch said, settling into the show of modesty he was used to putting on as the Ashford Student Council Vice President.

"Ye've really made a name fer yerself 'ere in Limsa, lad." Baderon continued. "Folk know that when they need summat doin-"

"Thank you, Baderon, really but there's something I need to deliver to you." Lelouch said quickly as he took out the missive from one his pockets. Inwardly, he was shaking off a strange discomfort at the other's continued praise. The cynic in him wanted to consider this mere flattery lain on thick, something he was used to, but it was clear Baderon was speaking honestly. Mentally pushing the feelings aside, the former prince continued, lowering his voice so only the other would hear. "It's some kind of coded message and given it was in the pirate captain's possession it could be important."

As he took the missive, Baderon stopped as if Lelouch's words reminded him of something.

"Ah, I remember now, a message came fer ye from Mealvaan's Gate. Acting Guildmaster Thubyrgeim said she had summat discuss with ye." The bearded proprietor said as he stepped back away from the bar and began unsealing the missive away from potential prying eyes. "But let's deal with this first…Ye want someone to read a message writ in funny letters fer ye? An' Ghimthota I might know a man as could? Well, let's see it, then!"

With that Baderon unfurled the missive and began to read its sealed contents. He frowned at what he saw then turned to Lelouch.

"I'll need a bit of time to look this over, lad." He said, both his expression and tone turning serious. "Fer now, ye should probably see what Thubyrgeim wants from ye. I'll have a message sent fer ye when I'm done."

Seeing the proprietor then call one of his assistants over and was clearly instructing him to work the bar for the moment, Lelouch decided to leave the man to his work and take his advice.

---

Western Thanlan

Kallen watched as the roegadyn miner named Drunken Stag returned from storing the bunch of raw gems known as Nashachite that she had retrieved from the Copperbell mines as part of job from the Adventurer's guild concerning a merchant's delayed shipment. The root cause had been a sudden infestation of creatures that were attracted to the gems as a food source called coblyns, a bizarre looking monster with a carapace of multiple jagged crystals that walked on three tentacle like legs with a smaller pair in the front to act as arms and hands. The creatures' faces featured a pair of eyestalks and a protruding maw of sharp teeth. Thankfully, despite their freaky appearance, the coblyns went down as easily as any other monster, their crystalline exoskeleton cracking to her fists as easy as a hammer to a crab, and the main danger to avoid was being overwhelmed by them.

After receiving payment for the job from Drunken Stag (and mentally noting to find time to read up on how roegadyn naming conventions worked), the miner had a little more to offer besides thanks. Apparently, the Brass Blades were offering a sizable reward for killing the local vermin: sun midges. Any adventurer interested simply needed to gather proof of eliminating the swarms. While she was reluctant to even interact with the money loyal guards, the redhead did need the money to at least maintain her weapons and equipment plus invest to use to buy a potential advantage she could bring over to Earth.

After dispatching several swarms of the annoying insects and collecting the proof of the kills in a small bag, Kallen returned to Horizon. As per Drunken Stag's instructions she began looking for the lalafell Brass Blade named Fufulupa, all the while hoping for a short and civil interaction given her most recent dealings with them. After a quick look, she spotted a young looking lalafell man with light blue hair in the guards' uniform and since he was the only lalafell Brass Blade in sight she approached him.

"Are you Fufulupa? I was told to speak with you about payment for helping with your bug problem." The redhead said as she reached him, who gave a slight start at her arrival. Apparently, he hadn't been expecting any adventurers.

"That's me." Fufulupa said quickly and in an effort to regain composure fell back on what was clearly a recently rehearsed greeting, but there was a genuine yet nervous enthusiasm in his voice, which had Kallen wondering if maybe she was the first adventurer to take the job and subsequently approach him about it. "Greetings and salutations, adventurer. To what do I owe this─ What, you've slain how many swarms of sun midges!?"

"Four, that's the agreement I was told." Kallen answered simply as she handed the surprised guard the bag containing the proof.

The blue haired lalafell's face brightened considerably as he received it and quickly handed over the agreed payment. "You have my sincerest thanks! The Brass Blades have been struggling to keep them in check, so your assistance is greatly appreciated."

"Oh, well…you're welcome and…thanks." Kallen replied awkwardly, a little lost for words. This Fufulupa wasn't acting like any of the Brass Blades she'd met so far, in fact he was quite the opposite as everything in his mannerisms indicated this wasn't an act.

"Will you be staying in Horizon long? If so, there is much and more you can do to help here." Fufulupa's hopeful was expression was almost like a begging puppy.

"Well…I guess I don't have any reasons not to stay." The rebel turned adventurer admitted and despite her misgivings soon found herself saddled with a new job from Fufulupa: locating a courier he'd hired. Apparently, this woman had been given a missive to deliver to a Brass Blade captain the lalafell guard had previously served under named Leofric as the two had been keeping in touch by letter since the captain's transfer a post at Lost Hope, another area of Central Thanalan with a refugee settlement.

"Are you sure you want to spend your gil on this?" Kallen asked.

"Yes, I'm sure. Ever since he was transferred, we've exchanged letters, but never before has it taken this long to receive a reply. And so I fear the courier may have met with some misfortune en route." Fufulupa insisted. "She must have made it to central Thanalan, or the Brass Blades that patrol the roads between here and Scorpion Crossing would have seen something. But, if she made it as far as Black Brush Station, she would have surely delivered the letter by now. Lost Hope is practically on its doorstep..."

From there Kallen took a few more directions from the blue haired lalafell before checking to see the location indicate itself on her book's map then proceeding in search of the courier. From there it didn't take her long to find said courier, a female lalafell named Seseli, and the cause for delay was evident: her chocobo had injured one of its legs. To make things simple, the redhead volunteered to take the letter to its intended herself given it wasn't very far away.

Going past Black Brush Station, Kallen soon came upon the refugee camp called Lost Hope and spotted two Brass Blades near one of the cooking fires: a man and a woman.

"Is one of you Leofric?" Kallen asked as she approached, subtly keeping her guard up given her previous encounters with the guards.

The man, who was sitting down near the fire, looked over at the rebel turned adventurer. He looked to be in his late twenties and had short black hair that turned to a blonde color at the end accompanied by mutton chop sideburns.

"Just passing through, or will you be staying a while?" He asked casually.

"Are you Leofric, then?" Kallen kept her tone neutral as she asked in reply. If this was the start of some attempt at flirting, she wasn't going to even humor this guy. After the man said yes, she then handed him the letter after he stood up to receive it.

Upon reading said letter, Leofric's casual demeanor vanished, replaced with a weary expression.

"…Fufulupa sent you all this way because of a late letter?" The mutton chopped guard asked with a sigh. "The boy is still far too earnest. Despite my demotion, he continues to call me Captain. I suspect he has no idea what it means to be transferred to Lost Hope either."

"What does it mean?" Kallen asked in reply, curious as to what would cause the other shift in mood.

"The Brass Blades don't give a Qiqirn's ass about this settlement. No one in Ul'dah does." Leofric answered simply, like a man pointing out a basic fact of life he didn't like but had long since accepted. "All here have been forsaken, adventurer. The refugees, their protectors. And you will be, too, if you're seen associating with us." He paused, his expression somewhat guilty, perhaps feeling his last statement had been harsher than he meant. "Thank you for the letter. Now, for your own good, leave."

For a moment, Kallen was considering taking the man's advice, but curiosity was standing in the way of that. This was now the second Brass Blade she'd met today that was different from the ones she'd been meeting so far, and a look around showed that the others under this Leofric's command were either guarding the place and not slacking off or were helping the refugee residents of the Lost Hope camp. With a mental shrug, the redhead decided to let the best available third party decide and checked her book's map. Sure enough, there was an indication that a few in this camp did have work to offer and one of them was Leofric, and so she approached the mutton chopped man just as he'd resumed sitting at the fire.

"I thought I told you to get out of here." Leofric growled and seeing Kallen wasn't bothered by his standoffish words continued. "What, looking for a chance to do some good?"

"And if I am?" Kallen asked simply.

Leofric looked at the redhead for a moment and finally sighed. "I guess I can't force you to leave. Damn stubborn adventurers, the lot of you. Fine, then. Listen well. A band of outlaws has taken up residence at the Quiveron Manse on the ridge to the south. Their leader has styled himself heir to Eolande Quiveron, the Syndicate member who died in the Calamity, calling himself Baron Quiveron III Esquire." The mutton chopped Brass Blade spat on the ground after saying the name, a clear indication of his thoughts on this bandit leader.

"The 'baron' and his cronies are naught more than a pack of jackals." Leofric continued. "They prey on the people of Lost Hope, robbing them of what little they have."

"Genuine or not, it sounds like this guy's living up to his title." Kallen commented dryly, which elicited a few snickers from some nearby guards and refugees. "If you don't mind my asking, why haven't you been able to deal with these bandits?"

"I myself cannot act without endangering the refugees, as they know my face and will retaliate against Lost Hope." Leofric explained. "You, however, are not known to the bandits or their allies. If you wish to help us, then deal with the baron."

"Okay, but what you said before about this bunch having allies...I'm guessing that's where the retaliation you're worried about would come from, right?" At the other's nod, Kallen continued. "Would you be able to handle it if they signal them to attack your camp anyway?"

"We should be able to handle it with all my people here, but make sure you engage and deal with the baron." Leofric said. "That one can be tricky; I've seen him slip away from ambushes only to just as quickly come back with more of his band and fully reinvigorated. It might be some thaumaturge trick; though whether he's a former member of the guild or not I can't say."

"Okay, thanks for the warning." The Japanese pugilist nodded. She was aware of the magic using guild of Ul'dah and that its members could throw fire and such, but she hadn't joined given what she'd seen of their style of combat it just wasn't for her and it made more sense to build on her strengths as martial artist for now.

Following the directions from Leofric and its appearance on her book's map, Kallen soon found the bandit camp. All the while as she'd made her way to it, the rebel turned adventurer prepared herself both mentally and physically for what could turn into a nasty fight. Given these were bandits low enough to prey on refugees, people in living in conditions comparable to her own people, Kallen had no plans to hold anything back going up against that bunch of scum.

It was a simple task to creep up on the "baron's" henchmen that were standing guard outside their leader's tent and eliminate them. Kallen had at first been worried that because the bandits were a lalafell exclusive group it might make stealth a bit more challenging for her due to size difference, but the surrounding rocks provided the right amount of cover and upon getting closer so did the clutter of the camp supplies and loot. With the watchmen dead, the rebel turned adventurer took a moment to utilize that Meditation technique Chuchuto had taught her to build up the energy known as chakra for the move Steel Peak before making a beeline for the bandit leader's tent.

The timing couldn't have been better as Baron von Quiveron III Esquire, a lalafell man in clean white robes and a hood, stepped out of the tent as Kallen approached. The self-titled Baron's initial expression was one of mild annoyance, he likely noticed one of the guards wasn't in view and assumed the man was shirking his duty, but that changed into wide eyed shock just before the Japanese pugilist delivered the chakra enhanced strike Steel Peak right into the bandit leader's stomach. The pint-sized robber baron made a gag like sound as the wind was literally knocked out of him before the blow sent him flying back into the tent; the crashing sound as he collided with what had probably been home comforts echoing outwards.

Kallen made sure to keep her guard up as she wasn't sure if that had been a fatal strike, and that was quickly proven to be the correct decision. With a litany of curses, the self-titled baron reemerged from his tent, his once fine robes torn and stained in several places and his face bruised and bloody, but now with a wand drawn. Looking at the redhead hatefully, the lalafell bandit leader raised his wand and a ball of electricity shot out and struck her.

The shock of the spell elicited a cry of surprise and pain as Kallen felt it and for some reason minor pain that followed and continued, apparently this spell continually shocked its target. Still, the pain while noticeable was far from crippling and unfortunately for the bandit leader only served to give his opponent more drive to attack him. As the Japanese pugilist lunged at him, the pint-sized robber baron jumped aside in a desperate attempt to evade before casting the same spell, but this time Kallen was able to dodge. She then dashed forward, this time closing the distance and landing a Bootshine on the self-titled baron's face and went through the Pugilist attack cycle until he stopped moving.

After that, Kallen's walk back to Lost Hope was uninterrupted as the remaining bandits, upon seeing her standing over the battered corpse of their leader turned and ran away. It also helped that being a lalafell, the late Baron von Quiveron III Esquire was a pretty light burden to present as proof.

There was a look of mild surprise on Leofric's face, be it at Kallen's return or being presented with the body of the baron.

"So, it is done? Good. I hope that wretch died screaming." Leofric said as he gave one last disgusted look at his now dead enemy before having one of the nearby Blades take the body away.

"So what now?" Kallen asked.

'First and foremost, your reward for ridding us of a true menace to us and these refugees." The mutton chopped Brass Blade answered before handing the redhead two Allagan bronze pieces, a type of coin that could each be exchanged for 100 gil. "After that, I'll need to organize a squad to check the camp and see what we can return to their rightful owners. Of course, there's the paperwork I'll need to fill out to report this, but that can wait. That way whoever the Syndicate sends for inspection won't take any more than they deserve for their contribution in all this."

"I see." Kallen said before deciding to leave the man to his work for now and take a break.

It was a little over an hour until the aforementioned squad returned with a wagon heavily loaded with the stuff Kallen had seen at the campsite and more of the Brass Blades went to begin organizing it all. Leofric returned to his usual spot by the fire, and from the looks of it had assisted quite heavily in the moving. The redhead decided then to address the nagging curiosity that had been coming up since she'd agreed to deliver that letter and approached the other.

"Do you mind if I ask you something?" She asked.

"Not really, and I have an idea of what it might be." Leofric answered with resignation in his voice.

"To be frank, up until today all the Brass Blades I've met have been jackasses and little better than those bandits you sent me after." Kallen said. "That kid I delivered the letter for, you and your fellow Blades at this camp are different though, why?"

"Back when the Brass Blades were formed, their official duties were to keep the peace for Ul'dah and its people, and there were some who joined believing that especially right after the Calamity." Leofric explained before giving a weary sigh. "Now Ul'dah is more prosperous than ever, some say. That may be true for the Syndicate, but none of that wealth has trickled down to the small folk. It's all a mummer's farce. One day I refused to play my part, and so I was made to leave the stage."

"So basically, the higher ups demoted you for being honest and that's why you and your fellows are here." The redhead surmised.

"Aye, though we're only a small part of the Brass Blades of the Rose; the ones you see here in Lost Hope are mostly the men and women who choose to stick with me after all that's happened and want to do some kind of good for more than just ourselves." The other answered. "My time leading the regiment has passed. The Brass Blades of the Rose must look to others for guidance."

"Is that why you've been trying to distance yourself from Fufulupa?" Kallen asked in reply. "So he can become that 'guidance'?"

There was a pause as Leofric regarded her before speaking. "That reminds me. As you may have noticed, I'm in no shape to leave Lost Hope right now. So, in my stead, I'd like you to return to Horizon and give this dagger to Fufulupa."

With that, Leofric unfastened a sheathed dagger at his side and handed it to Kallen, who briefly examined it, noting that despite some obvious age at the grip and sheath there were some flowery designs around the hilt.

"Although it's just an old ornamental dagger, it belongs with the Brass Blades of the Rose." He explained.

"I guess that answers my question." Kallen said as she put the dagger in her bag for safe keeping.

"Aye, I should've given it to the boy before I came here…" Leofric's tone was regretful. "I'm sure he'll understand, or will in time."

With that Kallen returned to Horizon via Teleport and upon seeing Fufulupa approached the young lalafell Brass Blade to report the delivery done. After receiving the other's thanks, the redhead then took out the antique dagger and so as to complete the delivery from Leofric.

"Wh-Why do you have that dagger?!" Fufulupa exclaimed as soon as he saw the aged blade. "Only a captain of the Brass Blades of the Rose is permitted to possess it!"

For a moment Kallen was considering being blunt and just telling the blue haired lalafell, but a part of her couldn't help but want to honor Leofric's wish. Despite her dislike of the Brass Blades as an organization designed to protect the rich, she could at least respect the bunch she'd just encountered for keeping their morals and trying to help the less fortunate of Ul'dah.

"Well as you can see I'm no Brass Blade, so I wouldn't know that." She said dryly. "Leofric just told me to give this to you. What do you think it means?"

"Captain Leofric says I am to have it?" Fufulupa asked, confusion evident in his voice. "There must be some mistake! He couldn't possibly mean to tell me that…" The young guard shook his head. "No, no, of course not. I am not worthy to wield it."

"I don't know, he spoke pretty highly of you." Kallen decided to drop some hint to push him in the right direction. She had seen some newer and younger members of her cell react similarly when given more responsibilities and decided to emulate what she'd seen of Naoto and Ohgi subtly ease them into it.

"Thank you, but it takes more than praise to make a proper captain." Fufulupa said. "Nevertheless, I shall respect the captain's wishes and take the dagger into safekeeping until he comes to reclaim it."

(I hope Leofric was right about that 'in time' thing.) Kallen thought to herself as she made to leave.

---

Limsa Lominsa

As Lelouch arrived at the Arcanist's Guild and approached the acting guildmaster, Thubyrgeim spoke out to him as she saw him. There was a troubled look on her face.

"Greetings, Lelouch." The monocled roegadyn said. "In case such doubts fill your mind, you should know that I am ever willing to lend an ear if you find your thoughts troubled."

That statement gave the prince turned adventurer pause, but he quickly gave a reply. "I appreciate that, but... Baderon said you wished to speak with me?"

With a nod Thubyrgeim answered. "At the very least I would have you know this, because it seems K'lyhia does not." At the other's questioning look, she continued. "The foreseer has been missing since this morning. There have been other times she has disappeared without a word, but we have always been able to find her. Alas, that is not the case this day." She gave a weary sigh. "Were the guildmaster here, he could deduce her whereabouts with nary a moment's concentration… I find myself beginning to wonder who devote themselves overmuch to arcanima are more prone to bouts of wanderlust..."

"I can't really say myself, but that isn't the immediate issue right now." Lelouch spoke up, not wanting to waste time. "The fact of the matter is your guildmaster isn't here, so we have to work with what we have. You've obviously known K'lyhia longer than I have; are you sure you have no idea where we can at least start looking for her?"

"You're right, my pondering can wait, we must needs organize a search party." Thubyrgeim agreed. "Would you be so kind to make inquiries in Hawkers' Alley? It is not uncommon for K'lyhia's wanderings to take a path through the markets."

"Of course, best of luck to you as well." The former prince said quickly before turning to exit the guild and headed for the aetheryte to take him to Hawkers' Alley, Limsa Lominsa's marketplace.

Following Thubyrgeim's directions, Lelouch's search and subsequent asking around in the marketplace soon yielded results in a lalafell man named Dodozan who had both seen and spoken to K'lyhia. According to him the missing miqo'te had been asking around about a Qiqirn smuggling ring. Lelouch had done jobs for the rodent-like beastmen during his time in Limsa Lominsa as like the goblins the ones that integrated with society tended towards the mercantile trade as opposed to the lawless life more commonly seen in Thanlan (though from the readings Lelouch had done that might not have been a matter of choice). Regardless, whatever further details of the questioning Dodozan couldn't recall as soon afterwards some Yellowjacket guards had come and taken K'lyhia away.

"If you wish to know her fate, then I suggest you speak with Ginnade of the Coral Tower." Dodozan spoke dramatically as he indicated the building that housed both the Marauder's guild training grounds and the Yellowjackets' base of operations.

The former prince fought the urge to roll his eyes as he thanked the lalafell before heading to the nearest lesser aetheryte to quickly get to the Coral Tower. Dodozan was clearly embellishing the latter part of his story by describing it as K'lyhia being apprehended, which was absurd given her role as a foreseer for Mealvaan's Gate and someone the guards would have worked with extensively. Still, the ex-royalty turned adventurer noted to check on that; if some overzealous fool had been unnecessarily rough with his friend, then he would ensure some measure of appropriate payback would follow.

Fortunately, Lelouch's assessment had been proven correct as upon speaking with Ginnade, a hyur woman seated at one of the desks for the headquarters and dressed in the standard Yellowjacket uniform, and she confirmed the guards had simply taken K'lyhia to the Coral Tower to question her regarding Doesmaga's reappearance. A quick look around the place showed that the bespectacled miq'ote wasn't present.

"And what did Foreseer K'lyhia have to say?" Lelouch asked, a bit concerned about how this questioning could have gone as the now cyclopean pirate might be a touchy subject for the pinkette.

"A member of the Arcanists' Guild, are you?" Ginnade noted the grimoire at Lelouch's side. "Then I see no reason to conceal the nature of our discourse. Perhaps you are already aware if this, but the foreseer was once held captive by that rabid sea dog."

"Go on." Lelouch said, keeping a straight face though inwardly he had a bad feeling of where this was going.

"Few pirates besides the Reavers sink to such depths of depravity as Doesmaga. Ironic given before his exile the scum was considered one of their greatest enemies, until we found it was a matter of competition rather than duty." Ginnade continued, contempt for said pirate evident in her voice. "It has been six years now since he was exiled from Limsa Lominsa for engaging in the worst kind of black-market trading. And now the villain has returned. He is, however, both cunning and cautious, and continues to evade our troops. Thus, we hoped to borrow the knowledge of Foreseer K'lyhia, whose experiences have given her intimate familiarity with the way the scoundrel operates."

(And that brings us around to the question I just asked.) The ex-royal arcanist thought to himself sarcastically as the other continued on.

"At least, that was our intent." Ginnade looked a tad embarrassed. "After weathering a barrage of questions from the assessor, we found ourselves, instead, providing the details of our search."

"That certainly sounds like her." Lelouch said with a smile, relieved that his friend seemed to be more herself now. "Anyway, I don't see Foreseer K'lyhia here, did she mention where she would be going after your...interview?"

That last part got a light smile from the guardswoman before she answered him. "Should you wish to speak with Foreseer K'lyhia, I imagine she has returned safely to your guild."

With a quick thanks, Lelouch then made for the closest aetheryte to return to Mealvaan's Gate, noting that perhaps the one downside to near instantaneous travel was one was likely to miss someone they would normally have run into on the way if they had simply walked to the destination. Unfortunately, upon returning to the guild and speaking with Thubyrgeim, the former prince would find that Ginnade's guess at K'lyhia's next stop had been wrong.

"...Hm? So, the Yellowjackets told you something of her history with Doesmaga, did they?" Thubrygeim asked after hearing how the other's search had gone. "Perhaps it would be best if I told you the entire tale." At and agreement from Lelouch, she continued. "Doesmaga's banishment was the result of a surprise inspection that revealed his involvement in an underground slave trade. The assessor that stepped aboard the pirate's merchant ship spoke of finding dozens of unwashed unfortunates crammed into that squalid hold. Among these prisoners was a young Miqo'te, destined for some black-market auction block."

"I take it that was K'lyhia." Lelouch assumed and the other nodded.

"Though K'lyhia was initially too terrified to even speak, the guildmaster brought her out of her fearful daze with the gift of an initiate's grimoire. Yes, the selfsame tome that she has carried her entire career. Thubyrgeim continued and then stopped as a look of realization came across her face. "I...Of course. Did you not mention that K'lyhia's grimoire was thrown into the sea?"

"Yes, I saw it…" Now it was the raven haired arcanist's turn to pause as the coin dropped. "So, she's gone looking for that grimoire...but how could she figure out where it may have washed ashore?"

"You mentioned she was asking around the markets about a Qiqirn smuggling ring, yes?" Thubyrgeim asked in reply and with an affirmation from Lelouch continued. "There are rumors that Qiqirn merchant of ill repute has retrieved the black-market goods the crew of the Morningstar heaved into the ocean. Even now, he gloats over his salt-encrusted catch in Aleport."

"Well, that narrows the search down, for both us and K'lyhia." Lelouch commented.

"Indeed." The acting guildmaster nodded. "It is entirely possible that the foreseer's most prized possession was caught up in that Qiqirn's salvage net. I've no doubt K'lyhia has reached the same conclusion. To Aleport with you, Lelouch. That is where you will find our wayward assessor."

"Understood." Lelouch said before leaving the guild and preparing to make for Aleport.

---

Western Thanlan: Horizon

As it turned out, Fufulupa had another request pertaining to the Brass Blades of the Rose stationed in the area and against her better judgement, coupled with the fact that the blue haired lalafell had either knowingly or unknowingly mastered that strange cuteness of his race to come off as something like a begging puppy, she'd taken it. Apparently, the current captain of the unit, someone named Baldewyn, had provided too few men to guard a group of Thaumaturges sent by their guild to do a survey for ancient relics in the area just outside of Horizon known as the Footfalls and Fufulupa's request was for her to help in ensuring the safety of this group of mages as that area had more than its fair share of monsters populating it. After being directed to speak with a lalafell Brass Blade named Totoruna, the redhead made for the Footfalls.

It was upon meeting the guard she'd been directed to that Kallen began having second thoughts on taking this job. Totoruna proved to be as typical of Brass Blades as she had come to expect from wearing the uniform mask and all to manners.

"A bleedin' 'venturer, come to help?" Totoruna growled in a clearly unfriendly tone as he looked at the Japanese adventurer suspiciously. "I ain't heard nothin' from Cap'n Baldewyn 'bout this. He said trusted men only."

"Yeah, well if you'd bothered to listen, you'd have heard Fufulupa sent me because he was concerned you didn't have enough people to protect the thaumaturges." Kallen replied, not even bothering to feign politeness. "Of course, if you don't need me, I just need you to write down this job as complete and I can just go back to the Adventurer's Guild to report it." She then reached for the book in her bag, privately hoping the other would take this way out.

"Err…'ang on a bit, Nunuzofu over there might have summat for ye." Totoruna said quickly, his tone lightening just a little, and gestured over to another lalafell Brass Blade dressed similarly to himself. "Anyroad, we've got this under control." The lalafell guard then glanced back in the direction of Horizon. "An' besides, this operation ain't got nothin' to do with Fufulupa. Boy's got a stick up his arse the size of a sabotender. It's no wonder the cap'n told him to stay at Horizon…"

As Totoruna turned away, his grumbling continued and for a moment Kallen was tempted to say something in Fufulupa's defense but decided it wasn't worth arguing and wasting words with this guy and just get the job over with.

As she approached Nunuzofu, said lalafell Brass Blade suddenly turned in her direction.

"Hey, adventurer!" He called out in an overly friendly manner that was clearly an act. "Mind runnin' a message to Crescent Cove for us?"

"Your friend over there said you're the one to talk to about the job, so if that's what you want…" Kallen replied.

"Captain Baldewyn's plannin' some festivities for the thaumaturges, see, and he wants 'em treated to the finest food and drink." Nunuzofu continued enthusiastically, all the while rubbing his hands in anticipation. This guy was a clear brown noser, be it for his captain or the coming thaumaturges. "Nothin' but the best for our distinguished guests, eh?"

"Yeah, sure." Kallen said simply as she took the envelope, just wanting to get this job over with, and with that the other told her to speak with a fisherman named Raffe followed by quick directions to Crescent Cove, which she knew as a small fishing village that had been struggling as the calamity had apparently done a number on what yields it used to have. It was literally just down the path from Horizon and down a left fork, the main path leading to the port city of Vesper Bay.

The redhead soon arrived at the fishing village, which did indeed look like it had seen better days and found Raffe only to get an unusual reaction upon telling the man why she was here and delivering the message that he immediately took out and read.

"F-Fresh fish for Captain Baldewyn? Of course, of course! We will do our best, madam." The man said in a rushed but clearly fearful voice.

"Is… something wrong?" Kallen asked, feeling more than a little uncomfortable at how the man was acting. It also didn't help it reminded her of how some of the servants under her…stepmother's employ addressed their employer, almost always at the woman's insistence. Especially…the Japanese adventurer mentally shook that off and returned to the task at hand.

"U-Unfortunately, we've had poor catch on account of the high seas." Raffe stammered his answer, apparently taking her question the wrong way. "More boats should be returning soon, but I cannot promise that their catch will please."

"Okay, calm down." Kallen said, reaching her right hand up in a calming gesture only for the man to reflexively flinch and step back from her. She immediately recognized the way this man was acting; it was all too similar to how she'd seen some of her own people act when in some way coerced by Britannian thugs, soldier or civilian, who either wanted something of theirs for nothing or just for kicks. "Look, I swear I won't say or do anything to hurt you, just…tell me what was in that message I just delivered."

Whether or not Raffe believed her words or not, the Japanese pugilist didn't know as the other's reply was a quick, and even more panicked. "Don't worry, milady! The captain will have his fish! I swear it!" before running off towards one of the other docks. Kallen began to go after him, but only got as far as the walkway leading down as the man was soon lost to sight among the other fishermen.

"What the hell…" Kallen reflexively clenched her fists and as they brushed against the knuckles at her side resolved to have words with Totoruna, Nunuzofu and this captain of theirs upon returning to Horizon.

"Pardon me, madam." A woman's voice spoke to her, causing the red head to turn to see it was a woman with short black hair dressed in a typical villager's garb. "I know this is sudden, but I have no one else to turn to."

"Go ahead, then." Kallen said with a sigh, deciding to at least hear her out.

The woman introduced herself as Merilda and began explaining. "Our village has long been a haven for…unscrupulous characters. One such bandit has taken over our tavern and is demanding food for him and his men, the kind none of us have in our larders."

"Okay, point me in the direction of the tavern and its unwelcome guest." Kallen replied as she palmed her fist. "I'll make sure he and his buddies leave, permanently."

"You are sure…" Merilda asked hesitantly.

"Trust me, I can handle a group of thugs." The redhead said with confidence, especially given she had done just that several hours ago.

Whatever confidence she had shown apparently was enough to convince Merilda as the woman gave an audible sigh of relief. "Bless you, adventurer, bless you! These outlaws do whatever they please, and we have not the strength to stand up to them. The Brass Blades of Horizon and Vesper Bay see no profit in protecting a poor village like ours. Most of them pretend we do not even exist, and the few that have tried helping us do not remain stationed here for long. Worst of all are those in league with the bandits…"

"Hold on, there's some Brass Blades working with the bastards?" Kallen asked and noticed the worried look creeping up on Merilda's face. "Don't worry this doesn't change anything, but can you name any particular guards I should keep an eye out for?"

"I think I should tell you the whole story, then." Merilda said. "Last night, when the bandits, a gang from the Quiveron Manse, were in their cups, I overheard them discussing their plans…"

The redhead immediately recognized that name given the earlier day's events but decided to hear more of what the other had to say before declaring she'd dealt with that problem already without realizing it.

"It seems they've come to collect gemstones stolen from the Copperbell Mines." Merilda explained. "Nashacite, I think I heard one say. They are to meet with their co-conspirator soon, at the Footfalls - -"

"Wh-Wh-What did you say!?" A familiar male voice came from behind Kallen, causing her to turn and see a shocked Fufulupa standing a few feet behind her, apparently having heard at least some of their conversation.

"Illicit exchanges and shadowy dealings! The Brass Blades cannot abide such malfeasance!" The blue haired lalafell exclaimed and then stopped and looked over at Kallen. "Forgive my eavesdropping, Kallen; I came to Crescent Cove merely to thank you in person."

"I think we can save that for later, Fufulupa." The rebel turned adventurer replied. "Now about this situation…"

"Yes. I never imagined I'd uncover a criminal conspiracy right outside Horizon's gates!" Fufulupa was getting visibly worked up from what he had heard. "We must act quickly if we are to apprehend these thieves! I will notify Captain Baldewyn at once!"

Before Kallen could give any input, especially since it was clear he had only heard part of her conversation with Merilda, Fufulupa then dashed off in the direction of Horizon, much faster than one might expect for a small guy in armor.

"No, wait! You mustn't!" Merilda shouted out towards the soon gone from sight lalafell. "Oh, gods…"

"What is it?" Kallen asked, noticing the woman's frightened expression.

"You must stop him before it's too late!" Merilda said quickly as she turned to the other. "Captain Baldewyn himself is working with the bandits!"

It took a second for that to sink in, especially with the realization that even if she had dispatched the bandits terrorizing the townsfolk that wouldn't stop the corrupt Brass Blade captain from silencing his literal honest to a fault subordinate. Biting back a curse at this whole matter, though most of it on the corrupt guardsman, Kallen gave a quick nod and dashed off herself back towards Horizon, readying her knuckles for what looked to be an inevitable fight.

Luck was with the rebel turned adventurer though as she soon caught sight Fufulupa as he was approaching the posted sign near the Footfalls which indicated directions towards, Horizon, Crescent Cove and Vesper Bay. She also saw two figures standing a little further away on an island in the fall's pool connected by a bridge, one a man with brown hair combed backwards and a goatee wearing noticeably finer Brass Blade armor than the others stationed in the area and with a lance strapped to his back and the other was shorter and clearly a lalafell but they wore a dark grey hooded robe that hid their face. Kallen decided to err on the side of caution and as she slowed down in her approach, opted to creep forward towards them and letting the rocks and shrubbery conceal her as she listened in.

"Captain Baldewyn, sir! I've discovered something shocking, something horrible!" Fufulupa declared, getting the pair's attention and confirming to the watching Kallen the hyur man's identity. "Someone has been stealing gemstones from the Copperbell Mines and- -" He stopped as he noticed said captain's smaller companion. "Wait, those gauntlets, those boots - - why, you're one of Quiveron's men! Sir. That man is a thief and a scoundrel!"

Baldewyn simply shrugged. "...And? What of it? His coin's good and that's what counts."

"What!?" Fufulupa's face was the picture of total shock. "Captain Baldewyn...are you working with these men? It cannot be…"

"I told you to stay in Horizon, Fufulupa. It didn't have to be like this…" Baldewyn said with resignation. "They'd get their Nashacite, I'd get my gil and none would be the wiser."

"B-B-But, sir, what if your crimes are uncovered!? What if Lord Lolorito finds out!?" The blue haired lalafell asked nervously.

There was a brief look of worry on Baldewyn's face, that quickly turned into one of irritation as he answered. "You godsdamned fool, don't you see!? I am acting under the authority of Lord Lolorito himself!"

"No... No! That can't be true..."Fufulupa's shocked expression returned.

"Why do you think people join the Brass Blades, Fufulupa? To serve and protect? Hah!" Baldewyn sneered at the very idea. "We're not the bloody Flames here! We do this for the coin!"

"You really seem to want to convince Fufulupa what you're doing with the bandits is normal and he should forget about it." Kallen spoke as she emerged from her hiding place. "And I don't think it's out of the kindness of your heart."

"You there, adventurer! Do you remember me? Well, I remember you!" Baldewyn's lalafell companion suddenly called out, causing the redhead to turn in his direction and to her surprise saw beneath the hood was the bearded face of the Quiveron bandit leader she had fought and killed. She was about to ask how he could be alive when the pint-sized bearded bandit continued. "I am Ser Baron von Quiveron IV Esquire! You killed my brother, and now I'm going to return the favor!"

"So that's why Leofric thought you were such a relentless bandit, there were two of you." Kallen surmised. "Look, your stint of robbing defenseless refugees is over and so's threatening the villagers in Crescent Cove. Do yourself a favor and surrender, otherwise you can tell your brother 'Hi, glad you're no longer here' for me."

"You insolent-!" The newly self-entitled baron was quivering with rage and then turned to Baldewyn. "Help me kill these two and I'll double today's payment!"

"Well, that settles it! It's clearly in everyone's best interests that both of you die!" Baldewyn declared as he readied his lance gave a short whistle before charging forward.

As Fufulupa readied his scimitar to defend himself, Kallen heard some splashing at both the left and right, causing her to quickly glance in both directions to see two lalafell Brass Blades advancing to back up their captain, their blades drawn as well.

"Can you handle Baldewyn?" Kallen asked the blue haired lalafell.

"I…I think so." Fufulupa answered, a faint air of nervousness still in his voice.

"Do the best you can for now even if it's just fighting defensively, I'll deal with the rest then back you up, alright?" The rebel turned adventurer said quickly.

Kallen's words seemed to have some effect as the other's gave a sure nod before going forward to meet his corrupt captain.

"It's time to do your duty, Fufulupa!" Baldewyn taunted as the other's blade clashed with the head of his lance. "Time to die for your country!"

"Why, Captain, why!?" Fufulupa demanded as he continued to parry each of Baldewyn's lance thrusts. "I trusted you!"

As the duel continued, Kallen turned her attention to the advancing lalafell guards so as to make good on her declaration. As each one approached the bridge connecting to the little islands in the shallow waterway created by the falls, the Japanese pugilist first lashed out at the one coming from the right, striking him square in the face, and as the first fell under the blows, she then completed the combo on the left one just as he reached the bridge and like his colleague collapsed and tumbled into the water like a sack of potatoes.

With those two down, Kallen was about to turn when she felt a sudden shocking pain as something struck her from behind. As lesser jolts of the shocking pain continued, the redhead recognized this as that electric from her earlier battle and turned around to see the caster was none other than Baron von Quiveron IV Esquire, said self-titled baron having a pleased grin on his face at his successful attack.

Clearing her mind with the Meditation technique, Kallen then lunged forward and struck the lalafell bandit leader with a Steel Peak. The chakra enhanced blow sent the pint-sized robber baron flying back only for his flight to be stopped by one of the nearby boulders. Unfortunately for the bearded bandit, he had struck said boulder headfirst and the sickening crack that could be heard upon impact signaled the end of Ser Baron von Quiveron IV Esquire's mere hours long tenure as (self appointed) baron and bandit leader.

"Heh, you're stronger than I thought!" Baldewyn declared to Fufulupa too occupied by their duel to notice the passing of his business partner. He'd started the fight half seriously as he figured that would be enough to deal with his uncompromising subordinate, only to be proven wrong as Fufulupa was proving to be a more skilled swordsman than one might expect from his humble demeanor. He wasn't just fighting defensively as his impromptu partner had suggested, he was managing to keep Baldewyn adequately engaged. Something the corrupt captain intended to change.

"Quiveron could you spare one of those lightning spells?" Baldewyn called out, only bothering to glance in the direction of where he'd last seen his business partner when he didn't get an answer. "Hey Quiveron, I could really use some he-" The corrupt captain stopped as he only had time to see the advancing redhead pugilist before she struck him in the side with another Steel Peak she had charged up as she'd dashed forward to join the fight.

Baldewyn faltered with a cry of pain. "Damn you both, you're ruining everything!" And with an enraged look at Kallen took a stance with his lance as he pointed it in her direction.

Recognizing what the man was about to do Fufulupa shouted in warning. "Ware his spear, Kallen!"

The rebel turned adventurer heeded the honest Brass Blade's warning, noted from the tell of orange light the range of Baldewyn's coming technique and then leaped back and out of the attack's range just as the corrupt captain executed it. Noting the mix of shock and frustration on Baldewyn's face at the failure of his attack, Kallen used the brief window of time to utilize the Meditation to charge up for another Steel Peak. Given it was obvious the last attack had really hurt him it wouldn't take too many more blows between her and Fufulupa to bring this guy down, but she knew it would be best to end it quickly since she could tell their enemy was ready to treat this as a life or death fight.

"That's enough, Baldewyn!" A familiar male voice shouted, causing all three fighters to stop and look in the direction of the voice. The newcomer was none other than Leofric, calmly strolling over the bridge towards them, his sword not even drawn.

"Your partner is dead, and your plans are undone." Leofric declared as he gestured to the limp form of the late Ser Baron von Quiveron IV Esquire. "You've no reason left to fight."

"Stay out of this, Leofric! I don't take orders from you!"Baldweyn spat as he regained his footing. "I may have spared your life before, but if you interfere, I will not show you mercy!"

"Seriously? You want to make this a three on one fight!?" Kallen asked incredulously. "I get the feeling you got your captaincy through money more than skill."

All that got her was a mix of curses and insults, which Kallen brushed off though she made a mental note to later check just what the meaning was for the recurring word Doman that had been among the swearing.

"Mercy, eh?" Leofric spoke, unperturbed at his colleague's threat. "And what mercy will he show you, I wonder? You who have done so much in another man's name."

A worried look came upon Baldewyn's face as he averted his eyes from meeting Leofric's. "What are you blathering on about!?"

"Every man in Crescent Cove knew about your meeting, you arrogant fool. Quiveron's men couldn't keep their mouths shut." Leofric explained, clear disdain in his voice. "Imagine Lord Lolorito's surprise when he learned that a rank-and-file Brass Blade was using his name to advance a personal agenda."

"He knows!? Seven hells!" Baldewyn's face paled as a look of worry turned into one of sheer panic. "But I'm a captain, he wouldn't - -"

"I was once a captain too, remember?" The mutton chopped ex-captain said. "And we both know what happened to me."

As the corrupt Brass Blade captain was mulling over his fate, Kallen heard the sound of approaching boots from the bridge behind and looked to see a couple of Brass Blades that she recognized from the refugee camp. After a quick affirmation from Leofric they restrained Baldewyn and one of the lalafell Blades that had assisted him, the other had the misfortune of drowning in the water he had fallen face first into and so dealing with the two lalafell corpes had been left to Totoruna and Nunuzofu, much to the less than honest pair's displeasure.

As that was all getting sorted, Leofric turned to Fufulupa, who as soon as the fight had ended had simply watched the proceedings almost in a daze.

"Well fought, boy." The mutton chopped ex-captain said in congratulation. "You've done the Brass Blades of the Rose proud."

"Captain Leofric! Captain Baldewyn, he...he said that Lord Lolorito─" Fufulupa stammered.

"Lord Lolorito wouldn't waste his time on a small-scale smuggling operation." Leofric assured him. "This is all Baldewyn's doing."

Kallen sighed as she added her agreement. "Much as I hate to agree on saying something positive about your boss, I think Leofric's right. Making smuggling deals with a bunch of bandits doesn't really seem like something that would benefit even a rich bastard like that." She noticed the looks both were giving her: Fufulupa's was complete shock, while Leofric's was more amused.

"Anyway, what else did Baldewyn say?" Leofric asked, returning to the original subject. "That all our brethren are no better, and that each and every one cares for naught but coin? Hah! Mere excuses to justify his schemes."

The former Brass Blade captain looked over at Kallen, noting the skeptical look on her face at what he'd just said. The former captain sighed and shook his head before continuing, this time speaking as if to both. "Aye, we've no shortage of greedy sods, some who'd probably sell their own mothers into slavery if the price was right." He then turned to regard Fufulupa, missing the brief look of discomfort on the redhead's face at his example. "But there are men like you, Fufulupa; men good and true, whom the smallfolk respect." Leofric nodded as the young lalafell's eyes widened in realization. "Which is why I gave you the dagger. The Brass Blades of the Rose need a leader with honor, and you're the most honorable man I know."

At those words, tears of joy and relief at this acknowledgment from the man he most respected started to flow down Fufulupa's cheeks as he began to sob. "Captaaaaaain!"

At this, Kallen decided to give the blue haired lalafell a bit of space and after a while approached the pair where it was decided they would escort the disgraced captain and his only surviving accomplice to Horizon where their arrest would be processed. Given this was likely to take the rest of the day and there were more than enough witnesses, the rebel turned adventurer was free to go, though Fufulupa did ask her to stop by later. Kallen was considering returning to Earth, but given that would mean returning to her Britannian "home" and decided to just rest at the inn for the rest of the day instead, thanking whatever god had given her that time blessing that strange book had mentioned.

---

Western La Noscea: Aleport

It didn't take long for Lelouch to find K'lyhia; she was at a Yellowjacket guard post and seated on the floor right outside what was essentially the port town's jail. According to the guard stationed there she had been talking to a Qiqirn that they had apprehended earlier on suspicion of fencing stolen goods.

"Yes, yes…Combat Pattern 256 should serve all expected contingencies; you never know when you'll have to nullify a thaumaturge or two!" The pinkette said to herself as she quickly wrote what she had devised down on a small notepad and pocketed it. "My retrieval strategy is complete."

"It's good to see you're on the mend, K'lyhia." Lelouch spoke, getting her attention. "Or should it be Overseer or Foreseer now?"

"Lelouch, it is good of you to come." K'lyhia gave a friendly smile. "I was unable to calculate for certain if you would piece together my movements in time. Very little is certain when so many variables are involved."

"As you've taught me, and in your case, I aim to pleasantly surprise." The former prince replied in a light tone. "So tell me, how has your search been going?"

"Lengthy, but there is good news: this prisoner here was kind enough to confirm that the trader who salvaged the Morningstar's jettisoned cargo did indeed retrieve a tome matching the description of my lost grimoire." The bespectacled miqo'te answered positively with a brief gesture at the jailed Qiqirn, who was looking the exact opposite of positive.

"That is certainly good news." Lelouch nodded, though privately he was hoping the inevitable water damage to his friend's book wasn't too bad. "Given you just finished putting it together, what's the plan?"

"Lominsan law and the policies of Mealvaan's Gate would support the confiscation of goods connected to an official inspection, but alas, my personal belongings do not fall under that definition." K'lyhia explained. "Thus, I intend to launch an unofficial offensive against this black marketeer and his cronies."

"That's fine by me, but one thing first…" The former prince then offered his right hand forward. "I think it would be easier for us both if you presented your plan standing up."

"Ah! Right, you are!" The pinkette admitted as she noticed sitting down faced away from the other and having to keep her head constantly turned back to address him wasn't really the most effective or comfiest way of explaining her plan. Awkwardly taking Lelouch's hand she stood up before more properly addressing him. "The peddler has already departed for Candlekeep Quay. It is time I gathered to me such allies as I possess - - and I count you as one of them Lelouch!"

Lelouch fought the reflexive urge to avert his eyes as K'lyhia looked him full in the face with her last statement. Oh, it was one thing to be trusted on a casual or formal level, that came with his position as Ashford's Student Council Vice President, but the look of complete and utter trust the pinkette was giving him… it wasn't something he was used to receiving from others aside from Nunnally. Also another pinkette from a long time ago, but that was something the former prince didn't want to think about. He was about to give what would have been an awkward reply, when K'lyhia continued speaking, oblivious to the internal conflict her previous words had sparked.

"Despite the nature of this endeavor, Mistress Thubyrgeim has offered me her cooperation." The bespectacled miqo'te added. "If you would, pray join her at Oschon's Embrace; that is where we shall ambush this disreputable Qiqirn."

Recognizing the landmark in Moraby Bay, it was a heavily used bridge with a guard station that went over a large ravine created by the Calamity, the ex-prince turned arcanist replied. "Alright, but where will you be?"

"Organizing our half of the ambush with Aersthota and Geissfryn." The other answered with a confident smile. "I'll see you there."

Soon Lelouch arrived at the bridge's guard station and as K'lyhia had said, Thubyrgeim was there waiting for him. After a few words and a mutual nod with the guard stationed there, the monocled acting guildmaster approached the raven haired Arcanist.

"Greetings, Lelouch. Your arrival completes our small company." She said. "You are equipped for battle, I trust? We need not await K'lyhia's arrival; once the Qiqirn appears on the bridge, we spring our ambush."

"You've certainly gotten this put together quickly." The former prince observed in reply. "So, how are we doing this?"

"The strategy for trapping our target relies on the two allies we have concealed on the other side of the ravine." Thubyrgeim explained. "This pincer maneuver was, naturally, the foreseer's idea."

"Such a maneuver is the ideal choice for this situation." Lelouch agreed. "Do you know what we can expect from this merchant and whatever bodyguards he's brought along?"

"The Qiqirn we are targeting is known as a careful and cautious fellow." The monocled acting guildmaster answered. "He travels with a small retinue so as to avoid attracting attention, but do not be fooled: more bodyguards follow at a distance, and will likely join the fray after hostilities ensue."

"I'll admit that's a sound arrangement to counter bandit attacks." The former prince commented, inwardly considering how that could be used to counter an ambush or an encirclement. "I assume the pair on the other side is Geissfryn and Aersthota?"

"Yes, their part in this is twofold: first to keep our Qiqirn in when his party flees in their direction and second, keep the reinforcements at bay until we can back them up." Thubyrgeim then gestured over to the Yellowjacket guard stationed at the bridge, a roegadyn woman named Doesrael. "Do not, however, expect any assistance from the Yellowjackets. They cannot be seen aiding us in what amounts to a personal matter, but they are willing to turn a blind eye for K'lyhia's sake."

"She really is well regarded, I see." Lelouch observed, knowing that while the most apparent flaw he'd seen in the guards was some could be a little overzealous in their dedication to their city-state's security, the typical Yellowjacket was a straight shooter so the fact they were willing to make a compromise for the miqo'te foreseer was telling of their respect for her. He then gave the other a light smile. "I would say that's even more motivation to ensure this succeeds."

With an appreciative smile of her own, the acting guildmaster nodded. "In any case, the foreseer's tactics account for our limited numbers and individual strengths. Victory is all but assured. Now let us take up positions and wait for the Qiqirn to arrive."

With that, the arcanist pair went over the plan quickly beginning their wait and soon enough a Qiqirn did indeed arrive accompanied by five bodyguards wearing similar leather armor: two roegadyn and three hyurs. The roegadyn and one of the hyurs were walking in front and each wore a large sheathed knife at their right side with a buckler shield on their left arm. The two remaining hyurs were archers as could be seen by the bow and arrows at their backs. The group spotted Lelouch and Thubyrgeim, their grimoires drawn and their Carbuncles summoned, almost as soon as they set foot on the bridge and readied their weapons.

"Filthy ambushers!" The Qiqirn screeched as he saw the pair begin casting spells targeting his guards, who he quickly barked orders to before backing away to safety. "They want Kikiroon's sparklies! Ambush them back!"

Lelouch was starting to wonder if perhaps he'd overestimated this corrupt merchant's intelligence as he ordered his guards to rush forward and into the oncoming blasts of aetheric energy.

"Your foul trade is a blight on Limsa Lominsa. Surrender your goods at once!" Thubyrgeim declared as she cast Ruin on the foremost approaching mercenary and her Carbuncle followed suit with its own attack.

Lelouch meanwhile, said nothing and focused on casting his spells on each of the three clearly equipped for close combat so as to weaken them prior to their approach while his Carbuncle did the same. The hired guards did indeed flinch as the spells struck them, but pressed on, which was expected plus acted as personal indicator to the former prince that while the magic he'd learned so far was considerable it was still far from potent enough to be ready for use in his main goal.

As the mercenaries finally crossed the bridge and there was no sign of the reinforcements she had mentioned, Thubyrgeim called out. "Geissfryn! Aersthota! Now!"

This signal to the hidden roegadyn pair, doubled as one for Lelouch to begin using more advanced spells. He immediately had his Carbuncle take its Ruby form to unleash its fire-based attack and cast the Fester spell with its follow up spell Energy Drain on the mercenary of the trio that looked hurt the most. Thubyrgeim did similar and as soon as she did, it was made clear to the former prince the acting guildmaster was well worthy of the title as the spells she was casting from ones he recognized to ones yet unlearned, along with her Carbuncle's attacks, were hitting a lot harder than his own. As a result, the hired guards went down in a matter of seconds, as planned and the arcanist pair proceeded to run across the bridge to join up with Geissfryn and Aersthota.

The roegadyn pair were fighting the backup, a group of seven consisting of hyurs and some lizard men known as Mamool ja, that Aersthota was keeping occupied through her skills as a Marauder with Geissfryn healing her. It was clear the pair were only just holding and so Lelouch and Thubyrgeim wasted no time in giving them the backup they needed. As they began the acting guildmaster spotted a Conjurer among the seven and directed Lelouch to deal with them, to which the former prince promptly did. The battle went well until an additional back up force of the same number arrived, thankfully spotted before they could make a surprise attack as the Qiqirn was being quite vocal in ordering the attack from a wagon clearly containing his wares that was parked a little ways away from the bridge. Due to that and Lelouch knowing to target their healers first, the battle was soon over.

"That appears to be the last of them." Thubyrgeim said as the last of the mercenaries surrendered, not wanting to lose their lives over this. "Now to find the foreseer's grimoire!"

"Agreed." Lelouch nodded, feeling winded after what had proven to be a longer fight than estimated. His time in Eorzea had improved his stamina considerably since the days prior to his arrival, but it was still a work in progress. On the plus side it made his exercise program cover story back home seem all the more credible.

After taking a quick healing spell from Geissfryn, the raven haired arcanist then made his way to the wagon to help in sorting through the crooked Qiqirn merchant's ill-gotten gains. K'lyhia was waiting for them and standing by the aforementioned merchant, now properly restrained alongside a similarly restrained bodyguard. The pinkette had executed her additional role of sneaking up on and capturing their target to prevent him from fleeing upon seeing the battle turn sour.

"Well executed everyone…" K'yhia said appreciatively and noticed her allies had finished looking through the wagon's contents. "Did you find my grimoire?"

Thubyrgeim turned to the ex-prince turned adventurer. "Lelouch, pray hand over the tome."

Lelouch hesitantly brought out the grimoire he found that matched K'lyhia's description, using the skill of keeping a straight face he'd picked up over the years, before handing it over to the miqo'te foreseer. He'd gotten a look at the book's condition and was hoping that his friend wanted it back mainly for its sentimental value.

Sadly, as life had proven to Lelouch on more than enough occasions, simply hoping for the best never worked out well as could be seen as K'lyhia's hopeful expression became crestfallen the moment she opened the grimoire to look inside.

"It's ruined… My wonderful grimoire is ruined. K'lyhia uttered miserably as she looked through the pages, trying to find anything legible in its contents. "The probability of repairing this degree of damage is…0%. Even the most brilliant strategy cannot undo such ravages of seawater."

Lelouch didn't know what to say to his now disheartened friend, not anything that wouldn't come off as hollow or insincere. He looked over to the others and found Thubyrgeim, Aerthota and Geissfryn were at similar loss for words, each having their own dejected expression. They likely too expected the book to have been damaged but were hoping for the best.

"I have never felt so…defeated." K'lyhia's head hung low, her hair obscuring her face, though the growing number of wet spots appearing on the ground told enough. "I believe it is time I returned home." With a hasty wipe of her eyes, K'lyhia then ran from the group and towards the road heading back to town.

On reflex, Lelouch was going to call out to the distressed foreseer, also seeing that Aersthota looked ready to do more and chase after her.

"Leave her be!" Geissfryn's shout stopped them both, causing them to turn to regard the roegadyn conjurer.

"But, how can I!?" Aersthota practically shouted back, the frustration evident in her voice.

"Is there really nothing we can do for her right now?" Lelouch asked, though in the back of his mind he knew the answer to that.

"He is right, Aersthota, Lelouch." Thubyrgeim spoke, her voice calm but it was plain on her face she was just as frustrated as they were. "You must allow K'lyhia time to process the loss." The acting guildmaster then looked at each of them. "And we all have matters that must be attended." She then indicated the bound Qiqirn merchant and the mercenaries that had been taken prisoner.

Soon the roegadyn pair began lining up their prisoners to turn over to the Yellowjackets and after a brief conversation, Lelouch and Thubyrgeim returned to the Arcanists' Guild. The somber mood of their for-all-intentions failed mission still prevalent among the arcanist duo as they came in and stopped at the acting guildmaster's place of choice by the guild's bookcase.

"Not quite the victory we imagined, was it?" Thubyrgeim asked with a sigh. "The moment K'lyhia beheld her soaked and tattered grimoire… you could see the light of hope die in her eyes."

"That's certainly a way to put it." Lelouch remarked sarcastically and he found himself unable to contain the bitterness that had been welling up. "I think we all knew that this would be the outcome, we were just all denying it and hoping the best… which never turns out well!" The former prince barely caught himself before the last part became loud enough for the others in the guild to notice. He then returned his gaze to Thubyrgeim, who was giving him a knowing and sympathetic look.

Inwardly, Lelouch flinched, showing any kind of weakness was something he wasn't used to, or particularly liked and he then spoke in an attempt to regain his composure.

"Well, what's done is done and I can understand why K'lyhia reacted like that." The former prince said. "I mean from everything I've heard, it's clear she regards the guildmaster at least as something close to a parent figure and it would be traumatic to lose a memento of someone that important…" He then couldn't help but think of his own experience where neither he nor Nunnally were able had been able to take any mementos of their mother with them upon their imposed exile. At the time the two had gotten over that by saying their memories and each other were enough, but…and then the coin dropped.

"Wait a minute…the guildmaster is still alive, right?" Lelouch asked, forgetting the previous moment of awkwardness as he looked back at Thubyrgeim.

"Yes, though I suppose one might worry about that, given…" The monocle then dropped from her eye, its fall caught by its chain, as she realized what the other was getting at. "Yes…out of all the people in her life our absent guildmaster is the one with the best chance of helping K'lyhia. Unfortunately, his whereabouts are still unknown, and that includes what city-state region. Finding him will take time…"

"Not helped by the problem with airship transport." Lelouch commented. He then glanced at the window and could see it was now full evening. "I can check with Baderon later to see if it's any closer to being resolved."

"There's no need, Lelouch, there are people in the Maelstrom that will notify me of that." Thubyrgeim replied. "I will call on your aid soon, but in the meantime, you would better be served to deepen your knowledge of arcanima."

With their conversation over, Lelouch decided to head over to the Bismarck for a meal before retiring to the inn provided by the Adventurer's guild. He briefly considered returning to Earth with hopes that some time with Nunnally might alleviate things but decided against it. It would be better to at least start processing this here in Eorzea where he had more than enough time to prepare so he wouldn't let anything about it slip by accident.

---

Western Thanlan: Horizon

Upon Kallen's return to Horizon the next day, Fufulupa immediately greeted her with the enthusiasm she was coming to expect from the lalafell Brass Blade. Apparently quite a bit had happened on his and Leofric's end regarding the previous day's events.

"Captain- - ahem, Baldewyn has been arrested and stripped of rank, which means the Brass Blades of the Rose no longer have a captain." Fufulupa explained. "Until a new one is selected, I've been ordered to serve as acting captain of the Horizon garrison. Though doubtless this is only a temporary arrangement, I will do my utmost to represent my brethren and protect the people of Horizon!"

"Well congratulations, Fufulupa!" Kallen said as she barely managed to change what would have been a head pat into a friendly clap on the other's left shoulder. "Couldn't have happened to a nicer guy!"

"Thank you Kallen, for that and especially your service to the sultanate. You are a true hero!" The blue haired lalafell declared. "I salute you, honored friend."

As he did so, Kallen couldn't help but blush a bit at that plus the praise, especially considering she'd more or less wandered into the whole affair.

"Err…thanks, and you're welcome, and…" The rebel turned adventurer verbally stumbled through what she hoped was the appropriate response before deciding to change the subject. "Anyway, how are the folks at that fishing doing?"

"That took a bit of paperwork, but as acting captain I made sure truly fair reparations will be sent to them shortly." Fufulupa answered and then paused as if to consider something before speaking again. "Also, as acting captain, I should be much obliged if you would grant me a personal request."

"Go right ahead." Kallen replied simply.

"In our efforts to ascertain the full extent of the former captain's corruption, we have been pouring over his personal correspondence." The other began and took out a sealed envelope. "Our search unearthed this sealed letter addressed to a man named Owyne. "

As he said this, the redhead noticed a troubled expression come across the acting Brass Blade captain's face.

"I'm guessing you know who this Owen guy is." She observed. "So, what's the problem?"

"Owyne is one of the Sultansworn elite! I can see no reason why he should have any dealings with Baldewyn." Fufulupa's face showed hesitation at what he had to say next but continued. "We now know that the former captain was consorting with a coalition of criminals… Could it be that Owyne was too!?"

"Maybe or maybe not." The Japanese pugilist said, recognizing the guards from the job that had gotten her that weird crystal and they hadn't seemed the corrupt sort when compared with the others. "Did you take a look at the letter and see what it says?"

The honest Brass Blade shook his head. "This letter may well serve as evidence of their collusion, and so I dare not tamper with it myself. But given the events of recent days, I knew not who to trust with this information –until now." The trusting look Fufulupa gave Kallen made it clear who he meant. "I have chosen you, Kallen. Pray bear the letter to Mistress Momodi of the Quicksand, and relate the circumstances of its discovery."

"And you're sure she'll know what to do about this?" Kallen asked as she took the letter and pocketed it.

"Yes, I am sure." Fufulupa nodded. "Not only is she a staunch supporter of the sultana, but she is well acquainted with the Sultansworn. She will know how best to proceed."

After a brief farewell to Fufulupa, Kallen then proceeded to use the Teleport spell to return to Ul'dah's main aetheryte and from there went straight to the Adventurer's Guild to Momodi's desk in order to deliver the letter to the Quicksand proprietress.

"Ah, Kallen! It's been too long! Dadanen tells me you've been keepin' busy in Horizon." Momodi greeted her fellow redhead jovially. "I want you to know I'm grateful for everythin' you've done for the people of Ul'dah."

"Oh, uh…thanks." Kallen was a bit surprised at this additional praise, wondering at how word traveled so fast around here. She was about to explain her main reason for being there when the other continued.

"Even though you've seen the seedier side of our city, you've continued to help your fellow man." The redhead lalafell continued genuine sincerity in her voice. "Believe me, the folk here love you for it."

For a moment the rebel turned adventurer found herself at a loss for words, and also forgetting the letter. She certainly was glad for the recognition, in fact both Momodi's and Fufulupa's words matched what she wished she could hear more from Naoto and her fellow cell members: assurance that she and they were actually making a difference for their country and people. That however led to pangs of guilt mixing in; she had been doing jobs in this city and surrounding area as they came but it was something she hadn't really seen as anything more than a way to improve her strength or gain some kind of advantage either for herself or potentially something to contribute to the rebellion in Japan. Looking back, the only times she could consider anything approaching 'heroic' were when her clients were in serious trouble like the whole matter with Fufulupa and others in Horizon and that, as far as she was concerned had happened due to chance.

Momodi noticed something odd in the other's expression and asked in concern, "Hmmm? What is it? You look like you've got somethin' to say."

The rebel turned adventurer was about to give an awkward reply, but then remembered why she had come to the guild.

"Yes, Fufulupa, the acting captain of the Brass Blades said that you needed to have a look at this." Kallen said before giving a quick explanation of what the honest guardsman had told her and then handing over the letter.

"…So that's what this is all about." The Quicksand proprietress said as she took the sealed envelope. "Fufulupa's thinkin' Owyne might've been in league with Baldewyn; that this letter may be proof of something shady." She then gave a reassuring smile as she began to open the seal. "Well he needn't worry. Owyne's as loyal a Sultansworn as I've ever known.I haven't the foggiest idea what this says, but- -." Her expression grew troubled. "Wait a minute. Wasn't Owyne the one who - -."

"What is it?" Kallen asked, feeling worried as anything that could trouble Momodi, someone who had clearly seen a lot in her time, was something to be concerned about.

"Oh, hells…I've got a bad feelin' about this." Momodi uttered, more to herself than her fellow redhead, as she began to read the letter before placing it down on the desk. Her gaze then returned to Kallen, her expression now dead serious. "Listen, Kallen - -I think I know what this is about, but I need you to swear to keep it quiet. If you'd rather wash your hands of this business, I won't hold it against you. But if you're determined to see it through to the bitter end, say the word and I'll explain."

"Whatever this is obviously has you on edge, and after all you've done for me since I came to Ul'dah there's no way I'm not helping." The Japanese pugilist said earnestly.

At those words, Momodi nodded and picked the letter back up and looking it over one more time.

"The outside world believes Ul'dah to be a sultanate, ruled by Sultana Nanamo ul Namo." Momodi began. "Truth is, though, it's the six wealthiest citizens that hold the most sway: the Syndicate. For example, did you notice the farmland outside the city they call the Royal Plantations?" At the Japanese pugilist's affirmation, she continued. "They were established by the sultana herself as a means of aiding the impoverished refugees, yet through coin bought legal meddling the produce is almost entirely purchased by the wealthy while those it was intended for get the scraps of it if anything at all."

"So, what are basically the nobility hold more power than the ruling monarch?" Kallen asked and realized she interrupted the smaller redhead. "Sorry, that's just unusual compared to where I'm from."

"That's understandable." Momodi gave what looked to be a sympathetic nod before continuing. "Be that as it may, the sultana's got the support of the people…" The proprietress then put down the paper and looked the taller redhead full in the face. "But she might struggle to keep even that if a certain incident becomes public knowledge."

"What happened?" The other asked.

"It pains me to say it, but her Grace's crown, the symbol of the royal dynasty, has been stolen." Momodi answered. "And Owyne…Owyne's the Sultansworn who was charged with guardin' it that night." She gestured to the letter on the table. "I'd bet anythin' this letter was written by the bastards who made off with the crown" The redhead lalafell then raised her right finger up in deduction. "It can't be a coincidence that a man we know to be fraternizin' with thieves had a letter for Owyne of all people, at this of all times."

"So, what do you want me to do for now?" Kallen asked.

"You need to take this to the man himself, Kallen." The proprietress answered as she folded the letter back into its envelope and returned it to the rebel turned adventurer along with the guardsman's location. "Tell him Momodi sent you, and that it concerns a lost heirloom." As Kallen took and pocketed the letter yet again, the smaller redhead continued. "If it looks as though the fellow needs help, I want you to lend it to him. The future of our fair city may depend on it."

There was something in the way Momodi gave the order that almost got Kallen to get into that ready posture she and many others in her cell did when Naoto was about to lead a raid on a Britannian facility or supply depot. It was then she realized why, for the first time she was seeing the redhead lalafell for what she was behind the friendly and welcoming proprietress of Quicksand; this was Momodi, the head of Ul'dah's Adventurer's Guild and a community figure known and respected by many.

"Consider it done!" Kallen said and with a nod.

From there, it didn't take long to find Owyne from Momodi's directions. Upon arrival at the office near the Sultansworn's barracks, Kallen spotted him amongst the uniformed guards: a white haired hyur man with dark skin who looked slightly older than her.

"Well met, adventurer. What brings you here this day?" Owyne asked as Kallen approached.

"Momodi sent me to give this to you and also assist you with…" Kallen stopped as she realized explaining this while being vague may not be the best approach. "You know what just read this."

"…A letter?" The other asked with a confused expression as she handed it to him. "Very well, let's see it."

After taking the message out of its envelope and reading it, the young Sultansworn's face grew serious, and he looked back at the redhead. "…Have you read this, adventurer?"

"No, but I was told why it was going to be delivered to you." Kallen answered simply. "Something about a 'lost heirloom'."

"I see. So you have some inkling to its contents, then." Owyne paused then directed her to a secluded corner of the room and their conversation continued. "Mistress Momodi has doubtless explained to you the significance of the crown, and what its loss could mean for Her Grace, the sultana." He then gave a sigh. "This theft shames the Sultansworn - -and me most of all. The blame is mine, you see. I grew lax in my duties, and in a moment of carelessness…"

"Yeah, Momodi pretty much told me what happened, how about we focus on getting the fancy hat back instead?" Kallen suggested.

"You're right, it would do no good to recount the tale now." The young Sultansworn agreed. "Since the hour of the theft, we've searched frantically for any signs, any whispers of the whereabouts of the crown. We have found nothing. The identity of the thieves, and their motives seemed fated to remain a mystery - -until you arrived bearing this ransom note. In it, the criminals state their price for the return of Her Grace's crown."

"I'm guessing they asked for a lot." The redhead commented. "How much time do you have?"

"The letter says I am to deliver the ransom before dusk this day." Owyne answered, and given it was currently the afternoon that didn't leave them with much time. "And though it pains me to say it, I fear I have no choice but to acquiesce to their demands. Too much is at stake to do otherwise. The crown symbolizes Her Grace's birthright and identifies her as the custodian of the Ul legacy. It must be recovered."

"When you put it like that I can understand why." Kallen said while mentally considering that maybe equating every monarchy she was likely to run into with the one she was (unfortunately) more familiar with might make things more difficult than they needed to be. "So, what's the plan?"

"I will travel to the Unholy Heir and pay them their ransom." The young Sultansworn replied with determination and then looked as if he guessed what the other was about to say. "Though I am not foolish enough to meet these men alone as they stipulate, I dare not bring a host of my comrades lest the thieves take fright. Friend, would you consent to be present for the exchange?"

Kallen was about to give her affirmation, but Owyne continued.

"Mistress Momodi has always spoken of you in the most glowing of terms, and I never yet had reason to question her judgment." He said before bowing his head, eyes closed. "On behalf of all those still loyal to the sultana, I beseech you - -help us in our hour of need."

"Okay, sure, I was going to do that anyway!" Kallen said quickly, feeling a bit embarrassed at the excessive praise and barely stopping herself from raising her voice and attracting attention. She then changed the subject by asking the directions to the meeting place he had mentioned.

---

Limsa Lominsa

Lelouch was awoken to the sound of knocking at the door to his room at the Adventurers' Guilds inn. Quickly dressing, the former prince answered it to find it was one of the guild's messengers who told him that Baderon needed to speak with the raven haired arcanist and it was urgent. As a result, no time was wasted in getting to the Drowning Wench.

"You called." Lelouch commented in a friendly tone as he approached the bar.

"Ye know, yer like one o' me regulars now, Lelouch." Baderon commented. "Ye've never let me down yet, an', Navigator 'elp me, I reckon I can trust ye."

"That's the sort of thing that comes before something important, especially considering your messenger." The former prince observed. "I assume this is regarding what you found in that message I delivered?"

"Aye, an' Ghimthota was right to want that message deciphered…" The guildmaster nodded, his expression now serious. "We've got us some trouble brewin', 'ere, an' no mistake. Get ready fer action, an' I'll explain."

Taking the other at his word, Lelouch gave a nod and summoned the Carbuncle before taking a seat to listen.

"Good to 'ave ye aboard, lad." Baderon said with approval. "Now then…back when I was younger an' nastier, I earned me living as a sellsword. In that business, if ye wanted to know what yer enemy was up to, you 'ad to learn to read the orders ye prised from the cold dead 'ands of his mates. That's 'ow I came to know 'ow to read yer message."

"Did this message match with the kind used by any particular crew?" The ex-prince turned adventurer asked, already intrigued by the prospect of decoded secrets.

"That there is where it gets interestin'." The bearded bartender answered. "Truth be told, the script was only too bloody familiar. Them's Sahagin letters, lad. An' I should know, I've gutted more fishback messengers than I can count." He then folded his arms. "It gets worse, though… The plan to blow up the Victory is all in 'ere, right down to the fine details. Looks like they meant to raise eight kinds of 'ell in western La Noscea, then 'it the Maelstrom's new flagship in the confusion. The point bein', the attack on the Victory weren't the act of a few rebellious pirates, 'twas a key part o' some canny bastard's grand plan."

"But if that's the case, something must have gone very wrong." Lelouch commented with a frown as he recalled the past day's events. "The attack on the ship was embarrassingly disorganized; I think the only way they could have been a danger to the vessel was if we just stood aside and let them go at it."

"Aye, that could be." Baderon nodded in agreement. "If I'm readin' this aright, the attack itself came much too early. I'll wager they panicked when they saw ye was on to 'em, rushed in to do the job, an' buggered it up."

"A lucky break, then." The former prince paused as he realized something. "Wait, this coded message that you've deciphered clearly points to the Serpent Reavers being behind this, but I didn't see any of them in the attack, let alone any of these Sahagin. Even accounting for that pirate captain's incompetence, shouldn't there have been at least an overseer of some sort?"

"Hmmm…" Baderon's eyes then strayed over to the report he'd received from the Maelstrom on the incident before going over that and their discussion. "Them tattoo-faced bastards as they say was payin' Ahtbyrm's old man, they're with the Serpent Reavers, right? …But none o' their crew was there, as ye pointed out. Did they 'ave summat better to do, or what?"

The pair were silent as they considered this. During which, Lelouch briefly noticed that pair of elezen he saw on the boat exiting the Drowning Wench but quickly dismissed that as he considered how he might do things with this failed attack being part of the plan.

"Hang on, what if this was supposed to be an easy victory and the reason we never saw any Reavers was because they never meant to participate in the battle but observe it." The former prince surmised.

"…Seven 'ells!" Baderon swore as he came to the same realization, or so Lelouch thought. "That mess at the Victory…that was meant to be the bloody distraction! The fishbacks ain't interested in the Maelstrom's baby! They're after men, just like they've always been. They're sendin' their pirate lackeys after a civilian target!"

The former prince's eyes widened in surprise and inwardly he was mentally cursing himself for not considering that. Going by his theory he was going to assume the Serpent Reavers would be using the distraction to go after a target that would give them a more conventional advantage in their conflict with the city state such as a different site connected to the navy or maybe an individual vital to command. Yet considering the kidnappings going on and fact that the entity the Reavers and the Sahagin worshiped was real enough to apparently bend people to its will, at least as far as he'd read on the matter since seeing that vision around Y'shtola, this should have been more obvious to him.

(Another limit by simply falling back on conventions from Britannian based tactics.) Lelouch thought to himself, realizing that the general military attitude regarding the civilian populace, Britannian or otherwise, ranged from at best 'maybe try not to aim in their direction' to treating them as a nonfactor and trusting whoever was in command to have the clout to ensure the media either downplayed it or blamed it on a fitting scapegoat. This was another blind spot that bore correcting but decided to deal with that later considering the current circumstances plus the headache inducing time this would add to (once more) readjusting his rebellion plans.

"This bit about raisin' 'ell in western La Noscea…that's where it'll be." Baderon continued, oblivious to the former prince's inner ponderings. "Summat tells me Swiftperch is about to get 'it and' 'it 'ard!"

Having done a few jobs there several days ago, Lelouch recognized the place: a new settlement established after the Calamity, complete with its own aetheryte. It was essentially a farming settlement, though given the negative affects the disaster had dealt to the land said settlement was built on it was still a work in progress, and a difficult one for all involved. There were Yellowjacket guards stationed there, but only enough to deal with keeping the wildlife at bay and at worst the occasional bandit. If the Serpent Reavers intended to come in force, the settlement could overwhelmed in a matter of minutes in a surprise attack.

As the raven haired arcanist considered this, Baderon began writing something down on a piece of paper and upon finishing handed it to Lelouch.

" 'Ere's a rough translation o' the message." The bearded guildmaster said. "Take it to Commodore Reyner in the Coral Tower, an tell 'im 'e's in fer a busy day."

"I'd say we all are." The former prince said dryly as he pocketed the message. "Given the short notice, I assume you'll want me to lend my assistance?"

"Aye, ye can be damn sure 'e'll need an 'and." Baderon nodded.

Giving a quick nod of reply, Lelouch made for the nearest of the lesser aetherytes and teleported to the Coral Tower. A quick direction from the receptionist took him to the Yellowjacket commodore, a dark-haired man in his late thirties and wearing the uniform of his rank.

"Yes, I am Reyner." The man said after Lelouch approached him. "Ah, you must be the adventurer whose name seems to be on everyone's lips. You are to be commended for your part in thwarting the plot to destroy the Victory. Now, what can I do for you this day?"

"Urgent guild business, I'm afraid." The former prince replied and brought out the paper to hand to the other. "Baderon said you were to be informed immediately, and you'll soon see why."

"Why do I get the feeling my hopes for a quiet afternoon are about to be cruelly dashed?" Reyner asked rhetorically. "Tell me, what is afoot?"

After receiving the message and hearing a short explanation from the ex-prince turned adventurer, Reyner's expression became serious.

"An assault on Swiftperch!?" He exclaimed. "But we've seen nothing to suggest the Serpent Reavers are massing for an attack."

Fighting the urge to point out that was the point of surprise attacks, Lelouch gave a more diplomatic reply in order for things to just proceed. "Perhaps, but this is what Baderon determined based on what he decoded from the message and given what I've seen and heard regarding the kidnappings the Serpent Reavers have been committing, it adds up."

"A good point, and it would be foolish to discount the possibility." The Yellowjacket commodore replied as he paused to give it a thought. "Baderon is rarely wrong about such matters…"

After a brief moment of consideration, he made his decision. "…I will marshal the Yellowjackets for battle immediately. The only question is where to send them. While I concur with Baderon's assessment that the attack on the Drydocks was intended as a diversion, Swiftperch is but one of several targets for the main thrust."

"Well whatever decision you make, Baderon told me I was to aid you in any way I can." Lelouch said so as to go along with his growing reputation as a helpful adventurer, especially since he was seeing another example of a good reputation paying off with Baderon's warning being taken seriously with little question.

Whatever response Reyner had was suddenly interrupted by a Yellowjacket guard entering the room with an urgent sounding address.

"Report." Reyner said simply.

"It's the Sahagin, sir! They've mounted a large-scale assault on South Tidegate, and threatened to overwhelm our defenses within the day." The man reported; Lelouch recognized the place as one of two fortified gates in western La Noscea near Aleport. "The garrison requests immediate reinforcements."

"By the Navigator… It seems my decision has been made for me." Reyner said, mainly to himself, before turning to the reporting guard. "Muster the troops and give the order to march."

After the man left to do so, Lelouch decided to speak.

"If I may, there is something that concerns me." The former prince began and at the other's nod continued. "Your man reported this attack as a Sahagin incursion, but made no mention of the Serpent Reavers being a part of it. Isn't it strange that they aren't fighting alongside their sworn allies?"

"Aye, the Serpent Reavers are in league with the Sahagin." The Yellowjacket commodore agreed as he considered the raven haired arcanist's words. "…Which means there is every chance this assault on Tidegate may yet prove to be another feint. The fact remains, however, that we can ill afford to ignore it. And that leaves Swiftperch vulnerable to those pirate traitors."

"We do have the benefit of Baderon's warning though, and with the foreknowledge of an attack Swiftperch could mount a defense for a time." Lelouch said as he ran through what he could remember seeing of the settlement's gate, walls, the large rocky hills it was built around to act as a natural barrier with a similar function being for the cliff face that looked out over the ocean.

"It is at times like these that I wish the Warriors of Light yet walked among us. Yet wishes will avail us not." Reyner said and then looked at the other imploringly. "Lelouch, you must serve in their absence. Make for Swiftperch with all haste and lend your strength to the squads I can spare for the settlements defense.

"It will be done." The former prince nodded before exiting the Coral Tower and then using the Teleport spell to quickly reach Swiftperch.

---

Western La Noscea: Swiftperch

Upon arrival, and going to meet the Yellowjacket in command, it turned out to be a familiar face. It was Ryssfloh, the roegadyn guard Lelouch had run into upon departing the ship that had taken him to Limsa Lominsa and subsequently directed him to the Drowning Wench.

"Commodore Reyner sent word we'd be getting reinforcements, but I didn't expect him to send you!" The roegadyn guardsman commented with a friendly tone after greeting were exchanged. "You certainly look like you've seen your share of action, though - - you bear little resemblance to the wide-eyed whelp I met fresh off the ferry!"

"Thank you, for that and the good directions back then." The former prince replied lightly. "So how can I help with the defenses?"

"You'll see soon enough, but first…do you know what you're fighting for here?" Ryssfloh asked, his gaze serious enough that Lelouch knew to consider so as to give the best sounding response to this question.

"To help ensure the townsfolk here don't suffer the same fate as the others the Serpent Reavers have kidnapped and if possible keep their homes intact." The ex-royalty turned adventurer answered.

"You're not wrong, but there's more than just that." Ryssfloh looked around the settlement while gesturing for Lelouch to do the same. "This place, Swiftperch, it was built by folk who stood strong in the face of every hardship the Calamity threw their way." He then looked at the former prince with determination. "And we're not about to let some fish-fancying scum claim the honor of being the ones who finally broke their spirits. Don't give those pirate bastards one bloody ilm, you hear me?"

"The only ground I intend to let them have is wherever they fall for their final rest." Lelouch replied with a touch of bravado to match the other's determination.

"That's what I like to hear." Ryssfloh smiled and noticed the grimoire at Lelouch's side. "I see you've been working with the Arcanists' guild, maybe you can offer some advice to improve our defenses."

"I do believe I can," The former prince said as he anticipated being more in his element. "For now, let's see what we have available..."

The Serpent Reavers came a few hours later, their arrival seen and signaled of by a female reogadyn Yellowjacket named Glazrael. Half a dozen of them could be seen; four roegadyn men and two miqo'te women garbed and tattooed in the manner that identified them as members of the Serpent Reavers. Two of the roegadyn wore axes at their back that identified them as Marauders, one of the miqo'te carried a sword and buckler while the rest were archers as could be seen from the bow and arrows they wore.

As Glazrael reported this within, the six pirates stopped as they found the gate to Swiftperch shut. One of the roegadyn archers turned to one of the axe wielders who looked to be in charge, a roegadyn man with a blue tattoo that covered the entire left side of his face.

"Oi, Baenryss, why's the door shut like they's expectin' us?" The archer asked. "I thought all them Yellowjackets was supposed to be busy. That useless scrag ain't followed the plan, 'as 'e?"

"Now what? Pull back and wait for our Sahagin brothers?" Another of the roegadyn archers asked in addition.

"Piss on that! We ain't turnin' back empty handed!" Baenryss declared with an arrogant grin before looking at the miqo'te archer. "Go get the rest an' ave' 'em bring the ram!"

The impromptu messenger left and several minutes later, another group of half a dozen Serpent Reavers could be seen coming up the road, all of them roegadyn except for one hyur and they were carrying along what one would have mistaken for a large log save for the likeness of a sea serpent carved in the front and handles protruding from the sides. As they got closer, Glazrael was able to identify that two of the newcoming group were fist fighters as could be told by the metal knuckles worn at their side, the other two were more archers but the last two (including the hyur) were wearing noticeably lighter gear. Lelouch at this point had gotten a concealed look at the Yellowjacket spotter's instruction and could tell the hyur was a conjurer from the equipment they had, but the other while clearly a spellcaster of some sort he wasn't familiar with.

The former prince fought the urge to smile, everything was going as he'd anticipated so far. He looked over at two of the Yellowjacket guards, each of them carrying a large and full bucket and being careful not to spill the contents, and gave a silent signal for them to take position by some carefully placed crates placed on either side of the closed gate. Lelouch then turned to give instruction to one of the villagers to be ready for the next part of his plan.

Meanwhile, the Serpent Reavers, oblivious to anything going on within the settlement's walls gathered around the battering ram as Baenryss assigned some of them to carry and use it for its purpose of breaching the gate, while the remaining would be ready for attacks to try and stop them and to rush in once the gate was no longer a problem.

"Remember, no killin' the smallfolk or it'll be your blood what stains Lord Leviathan's altars!" Baenryss ordered. "The Yellowbellies ye can butcher at will! Them dirt eatin' slugs'll be crushed under the full might o' the Serpent Reavers!"

The blue tattooed pirate was about to give the order to begin, when a sharp whistle came from behind the gate. He caught movement from above and looked up just in time to see a pair of Yellowjacket guards standing above the wall, each carrying a bucket which they promptly heaved forward and emptying its dark liquid contents in the pirates' direction.

Baenryss gave a curse as some of the stuff got in his eyes, resulting in a stinging sensation. He was about to order the archers to fire at the guards but they had long since ducked behind the walls. As he wiped the liquid from his face, Baenryss noticed that it both felt and smelled familiar and in a couple of seconds his eyes widened in horror as he realized what it was and turned to look at the battering ram.

Meanwhile, within Swiftperch its defenders soon heard the leading pirate's curses that were soon followed by repeated sounds of wood striking the earth that were then followed by a litany of curses from many sources outside the gate. A few of the Yellowjackets couldn't help but laugh as they heard their enemies' chorus of swearing turn into insults directed at each other and arguments.

"A nice trick with the cooking oil, Lelouch." Ryssfloh commented, giving a more professional and stoic look for his subordinates but allowing some amusement in his voice when addressing the former prince. "Those pirate bastards have as much chance of picking up that battering ram now as they would picking up a wet eel."

"Thank you, but this is only the beginning." The raven haired arcanist said, with evident satisfaction in his voice. Anticipating that the Serpent Reavers, upon seeing the gate to the settlement shut would try breaking through he had requested the residents of Switperch to provide any cooking oil they had for this purpose, reimbursing them up front with Gil. He figured they would either bring a battering ram or try breaking through themselves. In the latter case he would just have had the oil poured over onto the enemy and then proceeded with what would have been a very unpleasant follow up for them.

The former prince's musings stopped as he noticed the enemy had begun to quiet down and turned to Glazrael, who was still observing the Serpent Reavers from her position. "So, what are they doing now?"

"They've abandoned the ram and it looks like…" Glazrael was interrupted as the sound of a close collection of impacts on the closed gates followed by another. "The hardier of the bunch are trying to ram through themselves."

"Well, I doubt any of us were expecting them to give up so easily." Lelouch said dryly before motioning so he could have another look from Glazrael's vantage point. Said look revealed not only the obvious but also while the ram had been discarded, the non-roegadyn Serpent Reavers were awaiting the attack and not trying to break through the gates. In fact, they were still standing very close to the discarded ram. A predatory grin came upon Lelouch's face as he summoned Carbuncle; noticing the confused expression on both Ryssfloh and Glazrael's faces the former prince simply said, "I just realized our guests are due a little extra to their welcome."

With that, Lelouch ordered the Carbuncle to assume its Ruby form and execute its fiery attack, Glittering Ruby on the oil slicked battering ram.

The settlement's defenders saw a large burst of flame welling upwards just outside the gate followed by a combination of screams of pain and more intense cursing. The pounding against the gate had stopped as one could hear attempts to restore order to the would-be marauding group.

"That should do, open the gates!" Ryssfloh commanded, but not before giving a nod to one of the villagers.

The gates opened to reveal the whole dozen of the Serpent Reavers, alive but noticeably worse for wear as could be seen from the burns Lelouch's attack had inflicted on them. Despite that each one of the group looked more than ready to fight as the looks they were shooting the assembled Yellowjackets and Lelouch were straight up murderous. That tunnel vision proved to be another facet of their undoing one of the Yellowjackets gave the same whistle that the pirates had heard, but this time several of the townsfolk, a collection of hyur, roegadyn, miqo'te and lalafell men and women emerged from behind the section of the roof of the houses facing away from the entrance to Switperch. Most held stones and a few loaded slings.

This was the second part of Lelouch's plan as he suspected the pirates would have at least healers among their number and so he had asked Ryssfloh and any free Yellowjackets to find any of the townsfolk could either throw a rock well and accurately or use a sling. Glazrael's role as lookout had been expanded to spotting out what specialty the attacking pirates had and from there give a brief detail on who the stone throwers were to focus on targeting. Naturally, to preserve his heroic reputation Lelouch had made sure that only one wave of throwing was to occur and that the townsfolk were to then to take cover and let the professionals handle the rest. It also came with the bonus that the pirate archers wouldn't know of this order and that would grant at least a window of distraction as they would be keeping a lookout for any follow up attacks that weren't coming.

The plan worked perfectly as the pelting of rocks brought down the conjurer and the mage. The pirate archers, caught by surprise could only attempt to counter that but the organized townsfolk had been quick in taking cover so the arrows either missed or struck the empty rooftops.

"Squads One and Two, protect the townsfolk!" Ryssfloh ordered. "Squad Three, you're our rear guard!" After seeing said squads quickly and efficient getting to their positions and tasks, the Yellowjacket then regarded the remainder and brought his fists together. "The rest of you: we meet their charge where we stand! Let us bear the commodore word of our victory, or now word at all!"

Lelouch soon found the Yellowjackets near him cry "For Limsa Lominsa!" before readying their axes, and so the former prince brandished forth his grimoire as it was clear the battle was about to begin.

"Rargh!" Baenryss snarled furiously as he brandished his axe. "I'll gut all you Yellowbellies an' dance on yer gizzards!"

With that the two sides charged each other in a clash, with the former prince keeping out of close combat and using a combination of Ruin and the Carbuncle's forms to attack from a distance and occasionally using the Physick spell any Yellowjacket whose injuries were seriously hampering them. Lelouch was once again seeing the effectiveness of the hardy axe wielders in being able to draw and take damage while dealing it in kind, and the backup his magic was providing was effectively bringing down their enemies one by one.

The battle looked like it was nearly done until Baenryss, now heavily wounded and seeing most of his minions lying dead behind him and their now free opponents closing in, suddenly took a different stance with a focused look in his eyes.

"Dweller o' the Abyss, yer master calls!" The tattooed marauder uttered. "Heed me words an' smite me foes!"

Lelouch glimpsed a strange purple light appear a few yards behind, Baenryss and his eyes widened as a black winged shape emerged from it and began flying towards its summoner. The creature was thin thing with an avian head and sharp claws on both its hands and feet that resembled a gargoyle except in this case very much alive.

"Is that a bloody voidsent!?" Ryssfloh exclaimed, spotting the approaching monster as well. "Hold steady, lads!"

Seeing the leading Yellowjacket then charge at Baenryss, likely to finish off and prevent the deranged pirate from summoning more of such creatures, Lelouch decided to focus on eliminating the otherworldly newcomer as he knew what a voidsent was from the books he'd read. This was something he knew should not be allowed to back its summoner up, no matter how closer Serpent Reaver was to death. The former prince quickly cast Ruin and had his Carbuncle focus its attacks on the voidsent, drawing its attention and it began flying toward the raven haired arcanist.

Fortunately, other Yellowjackets had seen the creature's appearance and some of those whose opponents had been defeated also began to attack the voidsent as it continued towards its new target. Lelouch soon found himself evading or even enduring blows from the winged creature's claws, but that was soon stopped as more of the Yellowjackets joined in and within a matter of seconds the voidsent fell under the combined axe strikes and spells.

With that enemy out of the way Lelouch looked for any new enemies, only to find the battle essentially over with Ryssfloh standing over the now dead body of Baenryss as he put his axe away and many of the other Yellowjackets doing likewise. The former prince cast Physick on himself to heal the wounds he'd sustained in the fight before closing his grimoire and dismissing the Carbuncle. He was going to go over and speak with the leading guardsman only to see Ryssfloh was approaching him.

"Well fought and planned; the Reavers are beaten and scattered." The roegadyn guardsman said in congratulations.

"Some of them got away?" Lelouch asked, surprised given the intensity of the fighting.

"Just the ones who had come to aid their fellow pirates but turned and ran once they saw their leader dead." Ryssfloh answered. "I'll take some men and hunt down the stragglers. Given your performance in this battle I know I can trust you to keep an eye on Swiftperch with a few of the remaining guards until we get back."

"Do you think there might be anything to what one of them said about possible Sahagin backup?" The former prince asked as he looked out past the open gate but saw no signs of anything that could be enemy movement.

"Perhaps, but if any did make it past the Tidegates it'll be us who are likelier to see them." Ryssfloh replied. "Still, there may be more of the normal lot lurking about, so don't let your guard down just yet."

"After seeing what just the run of the mill Reavers are capable of, I don't intend to." The ex-royalty turned adventurer said with a serious nod and watched the picked squad of Yellowjackets leave.

Lelouch was about to seek out the remaining Yellowjackets to plan for any possible second attacks when a strange feeling came over him coming from behind. It was as if he was being watched. Immediately turning around and readying his grimoire, the former prince found himself looking in the direction of Swiftperch's aetheryte and out from behind a black robed figure stepped out. He immediately recognized the black robes and even more so the black mask that covered the figure's entire face.

"Are you the one that set that golem on me?" The former prince asked as he called Carbuncle forth.

The masked figure stepped forward and spoke, as if not hearing the other's question. "The source of his strength becomes clear…"

"What are you talking about?" Lelouch asked, not appreciating being ignored.

The figure then seemed to regard the former prince, as the other could feel some intensity from its gaze. He could also see more features to the mask; the brow furrowed as if in a glare and fang like curves around the mouth.

"You each may have bested the golem, but you will not fare so well this day." The masked mage stated before a circular glowing red symbol appeared in front of its face. It then looked up and threw its arms wide open to the sky and a dark shroud began to emanate from its body before suddenly shooting up into the sky above. The darkness seemed grow and spread above before trailing down and enveloping the entire settlement and beyond.

Lelouch wasn't sure if any of the others in the village were affected by this as he only had time to briefly look around before the masked mage spoke again.

"O mournful voice of creation!" The masked figure chanted as a crimson aura seemed to flow around him. "Send unto me a creature of the abyss, my thrall to command, that I may smite mine enemies!"

At the completion of masked mage's words, a large dark circle that appeared to emanate a strange energy formed in front of the caster. From that circle arose a winged and horned creature, far larger than the voidsent of the previous battle. This creature stood a few feet taller than him and was of a pale color. Its hunched over head seemed almost skull like, with a pair of horns that curled backwards into points that jutted upwards and it had a gaping maw filled with curved and sharp teeth. It stood on two legs and each of its hands held a curved sword that were brandished with clear intent to use.

"Your very being imperils the plan." The masked mage said, fording the other a better a look at the red symbol in front of its face. "You cannot be suffered to live."

Not bothering to waste words after hearing a declaration like that, Lelouch instead opted to cast Ruin at his masked foe, only for the horned creature to jump in front of the spell. The monster barely flinched as it was struck and strode forward and struck with its curved blades. The former prince immediately had Carbuncle protect him with its barrier before casting the spell Miasma, a spell of poisoning that continually injured its target for a time. Once again, the monster barely seemed to notice and continued its attack. This time the blades struck, but thankfully didn't cut through the enchanted cloth armor, yet he could still feel the pain from the impact well enough.

"Soon you shall take your vile gifts to the grave!" The mask mage ranted.

Biting back a retort, as he knew he would need to concentrate to stay alive, Lelouch decided to just go on the offensive and kill this monster before it killed him. He had the Carbuncle focus on targeting the horned creature as he cast his own offensive spells. Under the combined barrage of spells, the sword wielding monster began to falter in its step yet continued its offense.

"Whence springs this preternatural might?" The masked mage exclaimed, its voice a mix surprise and frustration.

As he made a move to cast Physick on himself, Lelouch found himself wondering at this hostile masked figure's reaction. Was it really that impressive he was managing to hold his own against this summoned monster? Did that mean this stranger wasn't much stronger than it? The former prince quickly pushed that aside to focus on the battle.

The horned creature was starting to slow down and more apparent wounds from the fight were now visible. It then looked like it was about to charge when a burst of wind seemed to envelope it and the sword wielding monster began to stagger. Taking advantage, Lelouch cast one more Ruin and that was the last blow needed as the horned creature let out a cry before toppling over, dead.

"A fearsome opponent…" A familiar female voice spoke from behind, causing the former prince to glance back and saw that the caster of the spell was none other than Y'shtola. The miqo'te conjurer briefly looked at the fallen monster before stepping over it and turned her gaze to the masked made. "…against whom you shall not stand alone!"

"I appreciate the assistance." Lelouch replied simply and immediately began casting Ruin at the masked figure, feeling a very strong desire for payback.

"An unwelcome guest." The masked mage observed as it drew a short staff with a reptilian skull on its end. "No matter, all shall fall before me!"

The bolt of aetheric energy that was the Ruin spell shot from Lelouch's grimoire and struck his enemy as it finished its declaration. The masked mage flinched before pointing its staff at the former prince and in a second a small ball of fire shot out from it.

With no time to dodge, Lelouch barely had time to shield his face as the fireball struck him. He gritted his teeth as he fought back the urge to cry out in pain from the searing heat as the fire magic burned him, only for the pain to suddenly subside and fade away as a familiar glow appeared around him. Recognizing this as a healing spell, the former prince glanced over at the caster, Y'shtola, and gave a grateful nod. The miqo'te conjurer returned it before casting that same wind spell from before on the masked mage, which gave the ex-royal turned adventurer an idea.

"Have a taste of your own medicine…" Lelouch said in low voice while glaring at the masked figure. He then gave the order for the Carbuncle to assume its Ruby form and unleash Glittering Ruby.

As the fire-based magic struck, the former prince couldn't tell if that wind spell had any enhancement, but the masked mage visibly faltered under that combined with a magically launched rock from Y'shtola's earth-based spell.

"No mortal should possess such strength!" The masked figure exclaimed.

Lelouch was about to say something when suddenly, he noticed the orange tell forming around his enemy and stretching in a circular pattern towards both him and Y'shtola.

"Y'shtola, get back!" The raven haired arcanist called to his impromptu partner before quickly stepping back and out of the orange light. He could see the white haired miqo'te did likewise and just in time.

With a rush of cold air, a series of large and sharp icicles seemed to erupt from the ground where the orange light had been. While inwardly glad to avoid the attack, Lelouch also knew not to waste time and cast Ruin yet again, and once more the masked mage faltered as it was struck.

"His power wanes!" Y'shtola called out. "Afford him no chance to recover!"

"Gladly!" Lelouch turned to regard the masked mage with a victorious grin as he had the Carbuncle once again take its Ruby form and attack, which he followed up with Ruby Ruin.

The masked mage stiffened after the dual attack struck it and gave a sharp groan as it fell to its knees. "...That the wisdom of the Paragons should be brought low...by mere mortals." Its voice faded away as it collapsed on its back and moved no more.

Lelouch waited for a moment, checking for any signs that his mysterious enemy was truly dead and couldn't see or hear any sign of it breathing. He was about to step forward to check the body, when Y'shtola spoke.

" 'Paragons', did he say?" The miqo'te conjurer mused. "Then it is as I feared."

"I assume the word 'Paragon' isn't referring to anything good in this context." Lelouch commented.

Seeing the questioning look on the raven haired arcanist's face, Y'shtola answered. "They are known as the Bringers of Chaos… or Ascians to give them their proper name." Her right hand came up to her chin as she began to ponder to herself. "It would seem our suspicions were correct; it is they who have been manipulating the beast tribes."

The former prince was quiet for a moment as he considered how to inquire further about this, given what he had seen in those strange visions after the golem's defeat. Leaving things as they were was obviously not a wise decision as Y'shtola's words implied there were more of these 'Ascians'. Add to that what he had seen of a similarly dressed individual just prior to his initial arrival in this world, then obtaining more information on a likely and clearly dangerous enemy was paramount.

"You've been tracking these Ascians for a while, it seems, and I can assume you've fought them too." Lelouch commented, getting the white haired miqo'te's attention, and made gesture at what he knew to be the goggle-like device around her neck. "From what I've heard, that Sharlayan device you're wearing plays a role in the tracking process."

"Pardon? You would know if we Sharlayans have encountered Ascians before?" Y'shtola looked genuinely surprised at the other's statement. "…I have never spoken to you of my homeland. How did you know whence I hail?"

Lelouch pushed back the mental reflex of not wanting to give away any information on a secret advantage with logic regarding the need for vital information. In addition, given Y'shtola had come off as the learned sort in their meetings and the visions there was a chance that she might know more about this mysterious gift he had somehow picked up in this strange world.

"Do you remember what I told you when we first met about that crystal I found and the visions I'd seen?" The former prince asked and at the other's affirmation, he continued to explain the further visions he had seen after that. After he had finished, there were some questions he was going to ask, but the miqo'te conjurer spoke first.

"Wait. I begin to see. You have been blessed with a special gift." That same interested look from before came upon Y'shtola's face. She looked like she was going to say more, but the sound of a rapidly approaching group came from the Swiftperch gate.

The pair turned in time to see Ryssfloh returning with the squads he had taken with him. After they stopped at the gate, the leading Yellowjacket gave a few orders to the guards before approaching the two, concern evident on his face.

"We noticed the bizarre commotion coming from Swiftperch and I ordered a return. Are you all right, lad?" Ryssfloh addressed Lelouch, looking for any obvious injuries but only seeing damage to the former prince's clothing. "If I'd known a mean bugger like that was hiding in the bushes, I would have left a full squad or six to keep you company."

"I'm well, thank you for asking." Lelouch replied, automatically falling back into the casual but still respectable manner he so often used in his role as Ashford Academy's Student Council Vice President. He then gestured at Y'shtola. "As you can see, circumstance provided more than adequate backup in dealing with our late masked visitor."

Turning to look at the fallen Ascian, with the other two doing likewise, the former prince could see that some of the Yellowjackets were already examining the body. Others were interviewing the townsfolk so as to get statements on what had happened in their absence and offer any required aid.

"Well, at least now we can call this kidnapping investigation to a close." Ryssfloh spoke with a nod of approval at his subordinates' actions. "Those Reavers were the ones spiriting folks away in the dead of night and this masked bastard here was pulling all the strings."

"A trifle simplistic, but not inaccurate." Y'shtola commented as she folded her arms. "I came as soon as I sensed his presence, but I never thought to find such a scene of carnage. Yet we prevailed. And thanks to your heroic actions, I have learned much."

Turning away from the body as some of the guards began to take it away while others returned to their regular duty, Lelouch was about to ask the miqo'te some questions about what it was she had learned when Ryssfloh spoke.

"Aye, 'heroic' is the word." The roegadyn guardsman said as he looked at the former prince with appreciation. "I wouldn't want to think about what would've happened if you hadn't been there, friend." He then turned to regard Y'shtola and to her gave a light bow of courtesy. "And your assistance is much appreciated, Lady Y'shtola. Please give our regards to the Scions."

With that, Ryssfloh took his leave and returned to the business of organizing the guard for Swiftperch.

"I am glad to have played a role in bringing what I hope is an end to this disturbing spate of abductions." Y'shtola said as they watched the guardsman leave before turning to Lelouch. "The thread of your fate forms a part of a most intriguing tapestry. Mayhap we will be afforded the chance to speak more in the near future."

"A moment, please." Lelouch said and sensing he may only have time for one question decided on what seemed the most pertinent. "About these Ascians you're dealing with…have you seen one with a red mask that only covers the upper part of their face?"

Y'shtola was silent for a moment as she considered that before giving her answer. "No, I cannot say that I have, but I will look into it. For now, however, you must see this particular tale to its conclusion. Pray send my greetings to Commodore Reyner."

With that, Y'shtola turned and took her leave. Lelouch was about to do similar and teleport back to Limsa Lominsa when he spotted an odd glint to his side and soon after stepping towards it revealed the source to be a crystal of similar shape to the one he found after first meeting Y'shtola. The only difference was the crystal lying before him was black and a dark purple mist seemed to radiate from it. The former prince's steps towards it became more careful as he wasn't getting a good feeling from this crystal, but given the last one's significance it bore investigating. Yet the caution was suddenly proven unnecessary as upon being almost a step away a sharp cracking sound came from the dark crystal before spontaneously shattering into a multitude of pieces. Those pieces immediately floated up and wavered with the mist as it slowly began to fade away like smoke.

Lelouch stood there for a moment, looking around for any other unusual signs but found none.

"This world just keeps getting stranger…" The ex-royalty turned adventurer signed to himself before beginning the spell to take him back to Limsa Lominsa.

---

Central Thanlan: The Clutch

Kallen soon spotted Owyne as she neared the instructed destination. The Unholy Heir was a large almost egg like formation in a high walled valley to the east of Black Brush, named as such because some folk believed the formation actually was an egg laid by the dragon that had apparently caused the big calamity from five years ago. After a brief conversation near the creek around the rock formation, three men could be seen approaching from the other side. Two were wearing purple robes and were carrying a bow and ax respectively, while the other was clearly a pugilist but aside from his knuckles was only wearing a pair of purple pants and shoes.

At Owyne's instruction, Kallen waited on the shore ready to act as back up while the young Sultansworn stepped forward into the shallow water to speak with the approaching trio, who stopped a few yards away from them and were clearly waiting.

"I've come as agreed." Owyne stated formally after stopping a short distance from the purple clad men. "Now, show me the crown!"

The man with the axe at his back, and upon closer look a long scar that ran across his left eye, clearly the leader replied. "Aye, you'll have your precious crown, once we've been duly compensated."

"Do you think me a fool?" Owyne asked incredulously. "What assurance have I that you will honor your part of the agreement?"

"Now, now, Owyne... you're the least trustworthy man here. Not only was the crown lost on your watch, but it looks to me as if you've violated the terms of our exchange." The scar faced man then pointed at Kallen. "Did we not say that you were to come alone? And given that you are not alone, what guarantee have we that there isn't a company of archers surrounding us even as we speak, ready to feather me and my men the moment they catch a glimpse of the crown? You have made a mockery of our trust, the deal is off."

As the man turned to leave, Kallen noticed the panicked look on Owyne's face and decided to intervene before these thieves took control of things.

"Don't be fooled, he's either bluffing or the crown isn't here at all!" The redhead said sharply and seeing the look of irritation on scar faced man's face knew she was right. "For all we know you may have been planning to just take the ransom money and run!"

The irritated look suddenly vanished from the blackmailer's face as he suddenly laughed, and Kallen realized she probably shouldn't have said the last part.

"Oh I see... were you so scared of us you hired yourself a guard at the last minute, Owyne?" The scar faced man asked mockingly. "Fortunately for you, I, Garibald, am feeling generous today, so just hand over the payment and we'll overlook the transgression."

"Here, as promised." Owyne said quickly as he took out a surprisingly small bag and tossed it towards the blackmailer, who promptly caught it.

The scar faced man, Garibald, then brought the bag to his nose and sniffed at it before a smile of satisfaction came across his face. "Aye, this is the real thing." The axe bearing thief gave a triumphant laugh before looking back at a visibly confused Owyne. "A thousand thanks to you, boy! You've succeeded where scores of thieves have failed! And now at long last we have it! The power to create an army of undying soldiers: The Trader's Spurn!"

Kallen's eyes widened as she mentally processed the blackmailer's last sentence and looked at Owyne, mentally cursing at not asking more about the ransom. "What the hell did you just give them!?"

The young Sultansworn didn't appear to hear her as his face was a mask of horror at the scar faced man's words and could only utter, "No...no, it can't be! What have I done!?"

"Surely you must have wondered what it was you were handing over." Garibald taunted. "What it was that seemed as valuable to us as the crown seemed to you? Or did you assume we were feeling charitable? Ah, but you must feel terrible, knowing that you brought us the doom of Sil'dih. Worry not, boy, we'll grant you a quick death and spare you further ignominy."

The scar faced man then gave a quick hand signal and suddenly four more men similarly dressed, two archers and two pugilists, ran out from behind the rocks further behind their compatriots to join them.

Owyne immediately drew his sword and shield as the newcomers took up position around their leader, before glancing back at Kallen.

"There's too many, Kallen! Run!" The young Sultansworn said with urgency. "Run while you still can! I...I will do my duty."

"And what will that accomplish?" The redhead replied harshly as she readied her knuckles and instead stepped forward to join the other. "If I heard right, we need to get that bag back or we'll have a zombie outbreak to deal with later. Besides, I've fought a close enough number to these guys with a single partner before."

"But…" Owyne began to object.

"It's your duty to serve the sultana, lad." A familiar older man's voice suddenly spoke from behind the pair. "And you'll be doing it for a good while yet!"

Kallen immediately looked back at the sound of the voice and saw that the speaker was none other than Papashan, except this time the old lalafell was wearing the full armor and arms of the Sultansworn and a crown-like helm that was probably a mark of his rank. With him were four other men of the knightly order, three hyurs and one lalafell.

Papashan looked down at the gathering of purple dressed thieves below, and Kallen could see that the kindly old man she had met at the Yard was gone. In his place was the combat veteran who had protected U'ldah's royal family as a member of the Sultansworn for decades, and full authority was in his voice as he ordered, "Sultansworn! Put these thieves to the sword and secure the crown!" At those orders the Sultansworn charged.

Garibald was undaunted at the arrival of these new foes and sneered. "Sultansworn!? Hah! No matter! Kill them all!"

As the Sultansworn moved past Kallen and Owyne, Papashan turned and called back to the latter.

"Fight for your sultana, boy! Fight for Ul'dah!" The elder Sultansworn shouted encouragingly.

This had the intended effect almost immediately as any dejection from a moment ago vanished from Owyne's face.

"As you command, Master Papashan!" The young Sultansworn called back enthusiastically before turning to the redhead turned adventurer. "With me, Kallen!"

"Right behind you!" Kallen said an eager grin as she charged forward alongside the Sultansworn.

It wasn't a very long fight from there; a small group of what were essentially bandits against a group of well trained and better equipped guardsmen and an adventurer very quickly discovered the differences in terms of strength. The only one of the thieves to really give Kallen and the Sulltansworn trouble was Garibald as the scar faced blackmailer had called for backup from another group of thugs he'd had hidden just in case. That had been to give himself time to cast a spell to summon a voidsent, revealing him as the summoner of the one Kallen and Thancred had fought many days ago. Unfortunately for Garibald, his summoned monster was more interested in fighting than protecting him and the leader of the thieves was cut down by Papashan shortly after the summoning. From there, slaying the otherworldly creature was kind of easier for Kallen than the first she'd encountered, but that was because while this one was stronger than the first, she had gotten stronger as well and also had the back up of half a dozen experienced fighters rather than just one.

With the thieves and their monster slain, the Sultansworn sheathed their blades.

"Master Papashan! But why…? How?" Owyne stammered at the old lalafell, who turned to face him.

With a kind smile, Papashan replied, "The General saw you sneak into the vaults, Owyne. He suspected something was afoot and ordered us to keep an eye on you."

"The Flame General…" The young Sultansworn's eyes widened in disbelief as he hung his head in shame. "He ordered you to look after me?"

Whatever else was to be said was interrupted as another Sultansworn came out from behind the rock formation ahead of them.

"Master Papashan! More of them to the north!" The new arrival stated as he pointed in the direction.

Papashan nodded in the man's direction before looking at his fellows. "After them, Sultansworn - -they have the crown! This lot only sought to delay us!" He turned to Kallen before taking out a small box from his pocket and handing it to her. "We'll handle the crown, but I need you to secure the Traders' Spurn. Put in this box carefully; the enchantment will seal it once you put it in. Keep it safe until you reach Momodi; she'll insure it's properly returned from there."

With a quick affirmation the Sultansworn were off, Owynne included, though the young Sultansworn quickly asked to speak with the redhead again in Ul'dah later before running after his fellows. Kallen watched them go, silently wishing them luck before it suddenly struck her of the irony that she'd basically just aided a bunch of knights I support of the royalty in charge of this city-state.

(I guess that's just one more for the list of things I've seen even Naoto wouldn't believe until I show him.) Kallen thought to herself as she walked over to the dead body of Garibald and began searching. She soon found the bag and quickly put it in the box, holding both as far away from herself as possible while holding her breath until the box closed with an audible click.

After pocketing the sealed container, Kallen was about to turn to leave when out of the corner of her eye she spotted some movement from the rocks. In case it was more of the bandits, the redhead immediately got into a fighting position as she turned her gaze towards what she'd glimpsed…and was glad she had prepared. Out from the rocks strode a dark clad figure that paused after a few steps into the water, whatever eyes were hidden by its glaring black mask were clearly fixed on her.

"The source of her strength becomes clear too…" It stated.

"You again, huh?" Kallen couldn't help but glare at this strange, masked magician. This may have been their second meeting but given that had started with an outright attempt to kill her was all the justification the redhead needed for a hostile reception. "If you're here for the zombie makings, then you're not getting them without a fight."

The masked mage seemed to ignore what the other had to say as it said, "Twice has the golem been bested, as has the voidsent and a host lost. Now, I must ensure that at least you will not fare so well this day."

A strange circular pattern then appeared glowing in front the hooded figure's masked face as it threw its arms open skyward and a geyser of dark energy erupted from the water at its feet. Kallen noticed the daylight around her go dark but kept her focus on the masked mage in front of her.

"O mournful voice of creation!" The masked mage began his chant, and immediately recognizing the words, the redhead dashed towards her hooded foe.

"Like hell I'm going to let you summon something else!" The Japanese pugilist shouted as she struck at the masked mage's face with her right fist and putting as much power as she could behind the punch.

Kallen felt her fist connect, but her eyes widened in surprise as she saw that whatever she had struck was not her enemy's face but some invisible thing that had come in between just inches from her intended target. The surprise didn't end there as some unknown force suddenly shoved her back a few feet, and it was all the rebel turned adventurer could do to keep her footing. All the while the hooded figure's chanting continued and reached its conclusion.

Suddenly a tall horned and winged creature rose up through the ground; it was hunched over and looked very much like one of those western demons that came up in classes about foreign mythologies. The creature carried a long-curved sword in each of its two hands and its shark-like maw of curved teeth seemed to grin at its opponent to be.

"Just one is enough to imperil the plan." The masked mage spoke, an edge of frustration in its voice. "I must ensure that at least one dies."

"Speak for yourself, bastard!" Kallen shouted back angrily, she stepped towards her enemy, but its summoned ally stood in her way.

The monster lunged forward as it swung its right sword down in a chopping motion, which Kallen dashed to her right to avoid. In response, the redhead lashed out with a Bootshine, followed by a True Strike and ending with a Snap Punch. The horned creature roared in pain before attempting to counterattack with its left sword but Kallen dodged that as well.

"No! This must not be! No matter what it takes from me!" The masked mage cried out and stretched its arms from towards its otherworldly ally. "Send this interloper to the grave!"

A dark aura suddenly appeared around the swords before extending around the horned monster. Its demeanor seemed to change as it went quiet and then stared at Kallen with a focused look. Then in a sudden burst of speed, the monster sprung forwards, thrusting its twin blades forward in a powerful double stab. The redhead took a defensive stance as fast as she could, but the impact not only knocked her backwards but also over. She grunted in pain as her back struck the literal rock hardened ground accompanied by a lesser pain along her arms from blocking the attack.

Kallen glimpsed the sword wielding creature's approach and making a guess based on its stance with the swords as it prepared to finish her off, made a fast roll to the left. The guess was proven correct as the blades slammed and cut into the ground where she had fallen. The redhead then made to follow that up with a Snap Punch, only for the strike to be blocked as the monster brought its right blade up as an improvised shield.

(Damn, this thing isn't going to go down easy.) Kallen thought to herself and then noticed that despite the creature's increase in strength and speed, the wounds she had inflicted prior to that were still very present. (Maybe if I hit it a Steel Peak or two I could bring it down. I just need the time to gather that Chakra.)

As Kallen readied for when she and the masked mage's summon would start trading blows, all the while considering how to create the brief window time to charge for the attack, she noticed a white flicker in the distance. Suddenly the monster reared up with an intense howl of pain before slumping forwards onto its knees.

"You certainly have a knack for getting in trouble." A familiar suave male voice commented before the speaker stepped out from behind the injured creature, dagger drawn. It was Thancred.

Kallen would have said something in reply but knew she couldn't waste this opportunity in case the masked bastard tried powering his summoned ally up again. Using the Meditation technique to bring forth the chakra, the rebel turned adventurer struck with Steel Peak, targeting the monster's horned head.

There was sharp crack as the blow struck, and the monster's head bent back at an unnatural angle. With barely any sound, the creature crumbled to the ground in a heap.

"We'll talk later, help me take this guy down." Kallen pointed at the masked mage.

"Certainly." Thancred smiled and with a mutual nod, the pair charged at their mutual enemy.

"Another one here as well!?" The hooded mage exclaimed incredulously. "...I've gone too far to back out now. You must die for our glorious purpose!"

Kallen didn't bother wasting anymore words with her foe, as she charged forward, she also charged another Chakra and unleashed another Steel Peak, catching the masked mage in the chest. Thancred followed with quick slash and a stab at the masked foe's side. From there it was only a matter of a few minutes of attacks between the two and the masked mage collapsed.

"No...this cannot be...the great cause of the Paragons cannot..." The masked mage rasped before lying still.

"Paragons?" Thancred said as he gazed down at their fallen foe. "This is indeed a disturbing revelation…"

"Why? What's a Paragon?" Kallen asked as she relaxed her posture after seeing no signs of additional foes.

"In the simplest terms, a group of magic wielding troublemakers, though I suppose you would prefer more than that." Thancred answered. "We had long suspected the involvement of the Bringers of Chaos - - Ascians, to give them their true name." He then walked over and crouched so as to inspect the body of the now dead Ascian. "But we could not be sure they were responsible for the recent disturbances until now. As if the sultanate needed any more enemies…"

"So…have these guys caused a lot of trouble in Sharlayan or something?" Kallen asked. "You seem to have been on the lookout for this guy ever since we ran into each other."

"Hm? Have we Sharlayans crossed paths with Ascians before." Thancred asked in reply as he stood and returned his attention to the redhead. "Well, we've certainly…" A look of surprise came upon the white-haired man's face. "Wait. I don't recall telling you about my homeland."

Kallen started as she realized that, and was about to explain before the other's expression became one of realization and he said, "Ah, yes, that's right - -you're one of the gifted."

The rebel turned adventurer was about to ask what he meant, only for the other to speak first.

"You know, this marks the third time I've found you in the midst of trouble." Thancred commented with a smile. "If I didn't know any better, I'd say you're a lodestone for it!"

"If that's supposed to be a compliment, please pick a better one." Kallen commented dryly. "As you can probably guess, I know you can, sincere or not."

Thancred gave a chuckle in reply before speaking. "Anyway, I'm glad I started following you around. Who knows what grand conspiracy you'll stumble upon next!?"

"Are you trying to jynx me?" The redhead asked with some incredulity. She wasn't sure she wanted to see how things could tier up from stopping a potential zombie apocalypse.

"I jest, I jest…" Thancred said lightheartedly. "Had I truly been watching your every move, I wouldn't have taken so long to intervene in your latest altercation."

"Yeah, but in that case we'd also be having a less pleasant conversation." Kallen replied sarcastically.

"But all's well that ends well, eh?" Thancred said. "Our masked friend is no more, and while I very much doubt we've seen the last of his kind, his demise will likely grant us some respite. And on that note, I must away. Until next time, Kallen."

It was only after her impromptu ally had walked away that Kallen realized thanks to Thancred's change of subject she hadn't gotten a chance to ask about what he meant by her being 'one of the gifted'. She made a literal note in the blue and gold book to ask about that the next chance she got before putting said book away. The Japanese pugilist then gave one last look at the Ascian's corpse when spotted a crystal lying on a large protruding rock next to the body. Said crystal was like the one she'd seen upon first meeting Thancred, only this one was a dark purple with a weird black mist coming from it.

Kallen then knelt forward to get a closer look at the dark crystal, unsure whether to try picking it up or not as she was getting a bad feeling from the thing. She never got to decide though, as the crystal suddenly made a loud cracking sound before breaking into a multitude of tiny pieces, to which the redhead flinched back from in reflex. Those dark crystal pieces hovered in the air for second before being taken by the wind and vanishing from sight.

"The hell…" Kallen said as she stood up and then decided to just teleport back to Ul'dah. This world really was piling up strange things for her to see today…

---

Limsa Lominsa

Upon returning to the city, Lelouch made straight for the Coral Tower to meet with Reyner. To say the Commodore was happy to see the former prince was an understatement for he and quite a few of the Yellowjackets were both grateful and impressed at the ex-royal turned adventurer's role in Swiftperch's defense that had become the talk of the area from both the Serpent Reavers and the strange, masked figure known as an Ascian and its summoned monster. So much so that both Reyner and the Yellowjackets present wanted to hear a retelling of the events.

Naturally, Lelouch obliged, making sure to keep the embellishments to a minimum as he felt those that were there would likely do much more over time and making sure to mention any involved from Glazrael as the spotter to Y'shtola's much needed backup. This was of course meant to solidify his growing heroic reputation as the former prince was aware that a well-crafted self-downplay of one's deeds in situations like these worked to better promote them. It also helped that it didn't do anything lessen the ambient air about the place as the guardsmen present all gathered to hear the story.

As it turned out, bringing the topic of Y'shtola up while highlighting her importance (which needed no exaggeration) was a good move as all present recognized the name immediately with quite a few words of praise all around for the miqo'te Conjurer.

"Y'shtola has been working with us for quite some time, you see." Reyner explained. "And she was only too willing to assist the Yellowjackets in the kidnapping investigation, proving herself a stalwart ally of Limsa Lominsa yet again."

"I got that impression from Staelwyrn after we first met." Lelouch commented.

"Needless to say, after your part in thwarting the attempted sabotage of the Victory, and the small matter of your deeds at Swiftperch, you too have proven yourself a valued friend of the thalassocracy." Reyner continued.

Before anymore conversation could be had, a new voice coming from outside the room changed things.

"Admiral!" Came a surprise voice, likely one of the Yellowjackets posted outside the Coral Tower.

Immediately, the tone of the room changed to a more serious one, with all the Yellowjackets quickly getting to attention as the door opened. Lelouch, for his part, did straighten up his posture and put up a neutral but respectful looking face that he used the few times actually had to act the part of the dutiful Student Council Vice President. It also helped that he was curious about this Admiral that had managed to unite and reform such a large assortment of pirates into a functioning city-state.

Chief Admiral Merlwyb Bloefhiswyn was a Roegadyn woman of the Sea Wolf branch with pale bluish skin and short white hair combed backwards. She wore a long, low cut black coat and boots, and white cuffs and gloves. On each shoulder was a red decoration in the image of Limsa Lominsa's flag, and at her left hip was holstered a large red and black double barreled flintlock pistol. As her white eyes regarded the former prince, Lelouch could recognize a sort of steadfastness in her mannerisms that one would find in a military leader. He'd seen it in Todou, glimpsed it in his mother in the relatively few (likely by design) documentaries and videos involving her and while he tended to avoid anything related to his half siblings he wouldn't be surprised if Cornelia was similar.

"May I present to you Admiral Bloefhiswyn." Reyner said as said admiral entered the room, accompanied on her right by a roegadyn man with a silver beard and matching hair dressed in the red uniform of the Maelstrom, Limsa Lominsa's Grand Company, but his decorations marked him of very high rank. All the Yellowjackets had saluted the Admiral as she entered.

"So this is the adventurer I have been reading about in the field reports." Merlwyb commented before introducing herself. "I am Merlwyb Bloefhiswyn, Admiral of Limsa Lominsa." Her serious expression then allowed a light smile of gratitude. "On behalf of my people, I bid you thanks for the deeds you have done this day."

"Lelouch Lamperouge, a pleasure and an honor to meet you, Admiral." Lelouch replied with a light bow of courtesy.

The Admiral nodded in acknowledgement before glancing back to her right and made a gesture. The roegadyn man at her side then stepped forward and held his right hand out to hand something to the former prince.

"A token of our gratitude." Merlwyb explained, her tone lightening. "What worth is high regard without just reward, after all? Ha!"

As Lelouch took it and found it was a bag containing a noticeably large amount of Gil and attached was a sealed envelope.

"Since you first set foot in our city, my good friend Baderon and Commodore Reyner have taken turns regaling me with tales of your exploits." She continued. "Safe to say, they left an impression, join me at the coming banquet. A seat of honor at the feast is the least I can offer the man who foiled the Sahagin."

There was a mixture of cries and murmurs of astonishment from many in the room. Apparently being granted a seat of honor at a banquet with the Admiral was special enough for so many professional guards to voice their amazement so. Lelouch could see a nod of approval from Reyner, who was standing a few feet behind the Admiral.

"Oh, and don't be late." Merlwyb added, though the friendliness in her tone made it clear this was simple advice. "Your fellow guests will be eager to take the measure of their newest hero, and some do not take kindly to being kept waiting. Till then, may you walk in the light of the Crystal."

With that the Admiral took her leave, and the Yellowjackets all saluted her departure. After a couple of minutes, Lelouch spoke to Reyner.

"I take it this banquet is quite the big deal." The former prince commented so as to bring out more context for the mass amazement at the invitation.

"I am not sure you understand just how unusual it is for the Admiral to invite an adventurer to a state banquet." Reyner replied. "It is a highly coveted honor. Why, even the officers under her direct command are rarely afforded such recognition!"

Lelouch allowed a little of the surprise to show as he hadn't expected to get that level of recognition for his exploits so soon.

"But I will not deny you have earned it." The Yellowjacket Commodore continued. "Many of the tasks you have performed in service to the thalassocracy have been both difficult and dangerous. This is a reward for all your efforts; a nod to your many achievements both large and small."

"I'll admit, I don't know what to say." Lelouch said, though that was due to surprise rather than humility. In Britannia cumulative achievements didn't amount to much in terms of recognition if you weren't a noble, not unless you did something so spectacular it garnered the attention of royalty and there was no way credit could believably be claimed by any of the nobility.

"Has the enormity of this moment yet to sink in?" Reyner asked in reply. "Perchance you will realize its significance when you stand before the assembled dignitaries of Limsa Lominsa!" As the topic moved on to suitable attire for this coming banquet, Lelouch couldn't help but wonder if perhaps the Commodore was trying to vicariously experience it.

---

Ul'dah

Upon returning to the city's greater Aethryte, Kallen used its network to be taken straight to the Adventurer's Guild and delivered the sealed box to Momodi. The redhead lalafell received it, but before ensuring it was properly delivered to the ones in charge of keeping it securely stored away, she gave informed the rebel turned adventurer that Papashan wanted to have a word with her at the Heart of the Sworn. Using the Aetheryte network yet again given the inner parts of the city were hard to navigate, Kallen soon found herself outside the office of the royal guards and was let in by the ones stationed at the door.

Inside was Papashan, standing in front of the main desk with Owyne to his left, others of the order were there, including the four who had accompanied the old lalafell into the earlier battle. Speaking of Papashan was still wearing his Sultansworn armor.

"Does it surprise you to see me so dressed, Kallen?" Papashan asked, noticing the rebel turned adventurer's entrance and regard. "I was once a Sultansworn, you know, though it's been fifteen years since I put down my sword, and took up the role of stationmaster."

"If you're saying you've gotten rusty over those years, then you must have been a real ass kicker back in the day." Kallen commented.

"Perhaps, but where I am now is a capacity in which I am no less proud to serve, lest you doubt." Papashan replied with a smile. "Whenever Her Grace ventures outside the gates, I have the honor of protecting her person."

"So, part time stationmaster and part time bodyguard for the royalty, that sounds like a good arrangement." The redhead said while privately trying not to compare this monarchy with the one she had the displeasure of knowing as she doubted there was anyone in Britannian royal family similar to this sultana who seemed to care for her people regardless of status.

"Indeed. Never had I seen her so despondent as when news of the crown's theft reached her ears." Papashan said with a nod. "But thanks to your efforts, she is returned to her former vibrant self. You have the gratitude of every Sultansworn, Kallen." With that, the elder Sultansworn gave a bow of gratitude to the Japanese pugilist.

Kallen blushed a little at the thanks, but whatever words she had to say in reply were interrupted by the sound of the door to the Heart of the Sworn opening followed by a newcomer's voice.

"Exalted vessel of Nald'thal, guardian of Thanlan, seventeenth ascendant to the throne of Ul'dah, Her Royal Majesty Nanamo Ul Namo presides!" A female voice formally and loudly announced from behind, immediately drawing the attention of all present in the room.

Papashan gave a very noticeable start of surprise while the other Sultansworn in almost perfect unison bent their knee and bowed, the elder lalfell quickly doing the same, as the announced strode in.

At the forefront was a fair skinned young lalafell woman with pink hair tied back in twin tails over which she wore a tiara like crown and wearing a dress that was a mix of red, pink and white with gold and jewel decorations sewed in. Behind her to her immediate right was a tall and muscular Hyur man with dark brown braids and a beard, his dark skin showing him to be a Highlander. At his back were two large sheathed swords and a shield. Behind him were three more Sultansworn men: one Hyur, one lalafell and one roegadyn, and a lalafell woman in a retainer's uniform who was likely the one who announced the arrival. All of them except the pinkette took knee and bowed as the Sultansworn gave the customary hails and good wishes one would expect for a reigning monarch, which identified her as the Sultana Nanamo ul Namo.

After stepping forwards to Kallen, Nanamo looked up at the redhead and said, "They regaled me of tales of a champion amongst champions, one whose tireless service to the crown merited the highest honor we may bestow."

"Thank you very much, Your Highness." Kallen replied quickly, mentally wincing on falling back on her Britannian student act, yet that was clashing with her trying to figure out what was so familiar the sultana's voice and green eyes.

"Never did it occur to me that it would be you." Nanamo commented as her expression was smile of familiarity and amusement. "Bring it forth!"

As the lalafell royal turned to her right and clapped her hands, realization finally hit Kallen and the rebel turned adventurer found herself falling back on every bit of training to maintain her cover as a student at Ashford Academy in order to keep a straight face. She found herself wordlessly accepting whatever it was the Sultansworn Nanamo's signaled forward handed her. Though once it was in her hand, the redhead found it was a bag of Gil and an envelope.

"Betokening our gratitude and esteem, I, Nanamo Ul Namo, Sultana of Ul'dah, confer upon you this gift." Nanamo then turned around to look at the Highlander. "Raubahn."

"Your Grace." The man, Raubahn, answered.

"See to it that our champion is my personal guest at the banquet." The royal pinkette instructed.

Raubahn lifted his head and gave a nod. "As you command, Your Grace."

Raubahn then approached Kallen and as she found herself looking up at the man to talk, the redhead found herself realizing how tall this guy was. Given he carried himself like a seasoned warrior, she had the feeling this Raubahn must be a really imposing figure in battle.

"If what they say is true, Ul'dah owes you a great debt." Raubahn stated before giving a formal introduction. "I am Raubahn Aldynn. With the consent of Her Grace, I oversee the affairs of the sultanate. Brave souls are few and far between in these times, I count my blessings when I find one."

As she voiced a quick thanks in reply, Kallen couldn't help but feel the other was evaluating her as a fighter throughout this.

"Her Grace invites you to join her at the coming banquet." Raubahn continued. "I trust I will see you there."

"Of course." Kallen gave a nod, her tone still awkwardly formal. "I'll...gladly accept."

Naturally, the Sultansworn in the room weren't aware of the redhead's internally trying to process this situation and were speaking their own words of astonishment at the invitation.

"Until then." Raubahn nodded in reply. "For the sake of Her Grace, and the glory of the sultanate, may you walk in the light of the Crystal."

As the entourage prepared to take their leave, Nanamo gave Kallen a friendly smile and nod before heading for the door. Meanwhile, Raubahn regarded Owyne, who saluted him respectfully with an arm across the chest. With that the entourage departed.

After the door closed Kallen turned to Papashan.

"Just to make sure, that lady I helped you find was…" The rebel turned adventurer trailed off while pointing at the closed door, to which the elder lalafell silently nodded.

(That does explain why he freaked when they were having trouble finding her.) She thought to herself and then turned to speak with Owyne.

"By the Twelve, Kallen! For an adventurer to receive a personal invitation from Her Grace is unprecedented." The young Sultansworn exclaimed, his expression showing he was impressed. "Seats at these banquets are offered only to the most distinguished individuals. You will be dining with some of the most influential people of Ul'dah."

Kallen inwardly groaned, given her past experiences back on Earth, the prospect of a party mingling with high society seemed about as appealing as fighting the Ascian and its monster again. Still, she had accepted the invitation, and given Nanamo came off as a decent sort there was a chance this party wouldn't be as unbearable as the few she'd been forced to go to as part of 'familial obligations'.

"There are of course, certain protocols that must be observed." Owyne said. "...But I am no authority on them. Fear not, however - -Mistress Momodi has long been responsible for familiarizing foreign guests with our customs. Pray return to the Quicksand and speak with her. She will tell you all you need to know."

---

Limsa Lominsa

After a conversation with Baderon, which included a mix of teasing that paled in comparison to one Millicent Ashford and envy at the access to free high quality food catered by Bismarck, the bearded guildmaster directed Lelouch to a red haired miqo'te woman named J'nasshym. She was an employee of the Brugaire Consortium, one of the largest companies that sold clothing and adventurers' equipment. After a quick conversation, the seller presented the former prince with a locked box only Baderon had the key for as the guild had ordered the contents. Delivering it and its subsequent opening revealed the contents to be a pair of dress shoes, very well made even by Earth standards.

"Think of 'em as a gift from me an' all the other folk ye've done right by along the way." Baderon said with a supportive smile.

"You have my thanks, though… it would be a little difficult to track everyone I've done a job for since coming here." Lelouch replied jokingly.

"Aye, aye… 'tis a very movin' gesture. Just don't go wellin' up on me, eh?" Baderon said dryly. "Wouldn't do fer Limsa's new 'ero to turn up at the banquet soaked in 'is own tears an' snot."

"Perhaps I should stop by the market for some pocket handkerchiefs, then." The former prince added to their friendly banter. "Now, about the time for the banquet…"

After being told it was to begin in the early evening, Lelouch decided to actually make a brief stop at the markets as he was planning to get better equipment anyway. A new adventuring outfit would look well enough, and he had decided against going back to Earth and getting what formal attire he had there given it would only make him look out of place as the guests were expecting to see an up-and-coming adventurer.

After making the purchases, the former prince briefly stopped at his room at the inn to get properly cleaned and dressed. After which was told by Baderon that the banquet was to be held at the part of the city known as The Bridge and in the Admirals briefing room. The bearded guildmaster made sure to check that the former prince had the shoes on as apparently that would be what the guards admitting guest would be looking for before letting Lelouch go on his way.

Speaking of, Lelouch found the shoes quite comfy and given they were better suited for social gatherings than regular wear decided to have those be his formal shoes back in Ashford as a sort of personal reminder of where he'd rather be on the few school occasions that demanded he be present like a good Britannian student such as imperial holidays or whenever the Emperor gave one of his grand speeches to enthrall the populace. The most that might do was raise curiosity of what shoemaker had custom made these…and then a thought came to the former prince that had him fighting down a very sinister grin. If anything from Eorzea that he ended up wearing got enough attention that some of the richer noble students wanted access to his mysterious supplier, he could arrange things so as to price gouge the rich fools into paying for something many times their worth in Eorzea, and possibly make more fleecing them than he had at gambling.

Still, given the task at hand, Lelouch decided to just make a literal note of it in the blue and gold book and work on expanding that idea later. He then proceeded to the nearest lesser aetheryte and teleported to the one nearest to The Bridge.

The Admiral's banquet proved to be a rather pleasant one as far as Lelouch was concerned; it certainly ranked above most of the balls and other social gatherings he'd attended as a prince back in Britannia. Rather than a bunch of pompous self-absorbed nobles, the banquet's guests consisted mostly of high-ranking members of the Maelstrom and even some from the Yellowjackets. The interactions the ex-royalty turned adventurer had with them only served to better his impression of Admiral Merlwyb; these were men and women who had clearly earned their rank and the promotion didn't seem to have gone to their heads. Commodore Reyner was also in attendance, proving Lelouch's earlier guess wrong; the man was simply that much of a stickler for propriety.

It also wasn't just naval and guard personnel present, though. Y'shtola was also a guest, unsurprising given her role in the investigation and ending of the kidnapping case and her being well regarded in the La Noscea region. There were also a couple lalafell who looked to be of the wealthier sort, but they seemed more interested in their conversation and merrymaking with a couple miqo'te Maelstrom guests than anything else, so the former prince just left them to it. After enjoying the food and drink, Lelouch spent most of the party speaking with Y'shtola and Reyner afterwards, their conversations mostly light save for Y'shtola mentioning some business in Gridania and Ul'dah getting resolved. The former prince was about to inquire further about them, when the party suddenly became quieter, signaling it was time for the Admiral's speech.

Merlwyb soon stepped up to the forefront of the briefing room. She gave a Lelouch a light smile of greeting before she turned to the rest of banquet's guests.

"Brothers and sisters of the sea!" She began which drew the small crowd's attention. The Admiral then turned while gesturing to Lelouch. "Join us in honoring this man for his services to our great nation!" She then raised her left fist before slowly lowering it as she continued. "May the Navigator guide and protect him on his journey till sea swallows all!"

There was a rush of applause and Lelouch, knowing from past experience how to play the role of honored guest, nodded with simple yet modest enough sounding thanks.

Shortly after that was concluded, the former prince soon found himself in conversation with the Admiral and the topic quickly turned to his recent exploits.

"Those pirates you encountered with the tattooed faces… They call themselves 'Serpent Reavers'. Their ranks are formed of cutthroats and madmen who have pledged themselves body and soul to the primal Leviathan." Merlwyb explained. "From what we have gathered, they sought to swell their numbers by spiriting away any soul unfortunate enough to cross their path."

This was all information Lelouch already knew, with the last part simply confirming Baderon's theory, but the former prince knew better than to say that to the host of this party, let alone the leader of a city-state, so he simply gave an affirmation with a nod and waited for the other to continue.

"I need not tell you the depth of the animosity between us and the Sahagin." The admiral continued. "How any seaman worth his salt could devote himself to the fishbacks' god is a question for a more temperate mind than mine."

"From what I could gather there seems to be some sort of brainwashing involved." Lelouch commented. "Also given the entity these fish people worship exists that could also be a factor."

Y'shtola, who had been observing the conversation, looked like she wanted to say something, but it became clear she didn't wish to interrupt the conversation either. The former prince made a mental note to ask about that later.

"That is a more complicated topic, and one better reserved for a later discussion." Merlwyb replied, her expression then lightened up. "But thanks to you, our citizens may once more go about their daily lives, safe in the knowledge that they will not be dragged into the darkness by those execrable curs."

Lelouch was about to give another show of modesty when he noticed a surprised expression on Y'shtola's face as she looked at him. Following her gaze, he noticed an odd and very visible glint coming from his bag.

"Such an extraordinary glow…" The miqo'te conjurer commented as the former prince found and took out the cause: the blue crystal he had found after the battle with the enraged goobbue.

As Lelouch held the crystal forth for the two to see, its glow maintained, something it hadn't done since those visions that came after its finding.

"This…is one of the crystals of light." Y'shtola said with astonishment.

"By the Navigator…" Merlwyb said, looking none the less surprised.

Y'shtola's eyes narrowed as she studied the glowing crystal. "After our encounter with the goobbue, you had a vision, did you not? Of a towering crystal?"

"Yes, that's also when I found this crystal, as I explained after the vision." Lelouch answered.

"You bathed in Her light…" Y'shtola observed before turning to look at Merlwyb.

The Admiral gave a nod and then looked at Lelouch. "Y'shtola's conclusion is clear, and I see no reason to doubt it. You are the vessel of a higher power. This…being from your vision was the Mothercrystal. Your description matches what little we know of her. And if She has chosen you, then your deeds may yet shape the fate of nations. As once did the deeds of the Warriors of Light."

While Lelouch liked the sound of the next to last part, it still didn't make this revelation any less astonishing, and while he had considered what was being told to him as a possibility shortly after the vision it had been pushed aside as he focused on just building up his reputation in La Noscea it was different to hear it confirmed. In addition, there was some discomfort at the idea of being chosen by what for all intents and purposes was a deity, as to Lelouch the idea of some unknown entity having control of his life was something he would reflexively reject.

"Know you of the tale?" Merlwyb asked, bringing Lelouch out of the rush of inner turmoil at the Admiral's prior words. "Like you, they were not of these lands, yet fought to protect us all 'gainst the corruption of the primals."

The former prince blinked at the bit of new information; he hadn't heard that these mysterious heroes weren't Eorzean in origin. He briefly wondered if maybe any of them could have been from Earth as well, but dismissed that as there was no indication of anyone or anything from his world being present here at all.

"When the Garlean Empire began its conquest of the realm, these heroes joined the Grand Companies, and helped reforge the Eorzean Alliance." Merlwyb continued. "And at the Battle of Cartenau, they took the field beneath our banners, to fight for everything we hold dear." A saddened expression came across her face as she looked away from the former prince. "It was on that day, in the midst of that hell…that we lost them."

Lelouch looked to see her gaze was on the many Grand Company members present, now talking among themselves as the banquet had resumed, likely veterans of the battle she had mentioned.

"Every soul who survived that battle will never forget how it was to fight beside them." The Admiral said. "We are proud to call them our comrades. Yet, whenever we try to shout their names, the sound dies in our throats. And whenever we strain to see their faces with our mind's eye, naught but their shadows appear to us, set against a blinding light. Ask any true Eorzean who knew them, and the story will be the same. It is for this reason that we call them 'the Warriors of Light'." Her gaze then returned to the raven haired arcanist. "When I look at you, I cannot help but be reminded of them."

Lelouch wasn't sure what to say to that, especially since he knew that if the Admiral knew his real motivations for doing all this, she probably wouldn't be making that comparison. Fortunately, Merlwyb didn't wait for a reply.

The white-haired Admiral pointed at the crystal in the former prince's hand and said in a serious tone. "Keep that crystal safe."

"That, you can count on." Lelouch replied, which was an honest answer. Regardless of his mixed feelings of being bound to some strange otherworldly entity, likely irreversibly, it was a step down a path to power he had ultimately chosen for himself, and he was not going to lose what was likely a vital component to it.

"In time, I believe the Mothercrystal will make clear Her reasons for bestowing it upon you." Merlwyb remarked with a nod. "Heed well Her words, adventurer. For it is Hydaelyn herself who speaks."

Whatever he had to say in reply to that, Lelouch would later find himself unable to recall as a now familiar pressure came to his head and his vision faded away.

---

Ul'dah

Fortunately for Kallen, the main dress requirement was a custom-made pair of earrings that also doubled as a pass for the guards to see to let attendees into the banquet hall. While the redhead was glad to not have to dress fancily like a similar sounding event back home, she did at least make sure her outfit and equipment were repaired and cleaned before speaking with Momodi who directed her to the Royal Avenue and the Fragrant Chamber where the banquet was to be held. With that the Quicksand Proprietress sent her fellow redhead off with wishes of good luck in her debut into Ul'dahn high society.

After being let in by the Sultansworn guardsmen when they confirmed she was an invited guest, Kallen did her best to mingle among the guests. To their credit, her fellow guests weren't anywhere near as bad as the nobles who were counted among her stepmother's friends and associates, though there wasn't very much to discuss with them. The only exception was Papashan, who the rebel turned adventurer found herself talking with the most after finding he was also a guest at this banquet.

The pair's conversation came to an end as the banquet quieted down as Raubahn announced the arrival of Nanamo with, "All hail the sultana!"

(I guess that's one person I can be okay with attaching 'All hail' to.) Kallen thought to herself dryly as she watched Raubahn take the knee to the miniature pinkette.

"Your Grace." He said simply.

"Raubahn." Nanamo replied just as simply before stepping towards him.

What followed got a surprised and then amused expression from the watching Kallen as she saw Nanamo take a seat and be lifted up on Raubahn's folded right arm as she proceeded to give a speech to the banquet guests. The look on this pair's faces and of all the others in attendance indicated this was normal. To the redhead it evoked the image of a falconer but with the weirdest looking falcon.

"By right of the royal house of Ul, I, Nanamo, seventeenth of my line, have summoned you here." The royal pinkette began. "We are graced this day by the presence of a hero to Ul'dah, and dear friend to the crown." Nanamo then gestured in Kallen's direction, leading all eyes to focus on the redhead. "Honored guests, I give you our champion!"

As the guests applauded, Kallen did her best to not look as flustered as she felt, not being used to being the center of attention, at least not like this. Not to mention it was clear the sultana was being genuine in her declaration; she'd seen enough examples of a member of the Britannian royal family parading a knight or celebrity around in what was essentially just for self-promotion, the current viceroy for Japan being an obvious example.

As the applause began to die down, Nanamo concluded, "And with that, I bid you enjoy the feast."

Kallen intended to do so, but the sultana's announcement made her the target of renewed conversations and as result enjoying the food and drink of the banquet took a little longer. After a while, the Japanese pugilist found herself seeking a more secluded part of the dining hall to clear her head a little. However, she soon found she wasn't the only one doing so as Raubahn had also wandered over to that section some time before her.

The two briefly exchanged greetings and from there the conversation turned to Kallen's experiences since coming to Ul'dah.

"Not to spoil your appetite, but Ul'dah is hardly so bountiful as this meal would have you believe." Raubahn said. "While we gorge ourselves, children starve in the streets. Nor can Her Grace do aught to help them. She is thwarted at every turn by those on the Syndicate who derive their wealth from the worker's poverty."

"So I've seen and heard, the same or worse seems to happen to normal people who try to fix things." Kallen admitted with a bitter edge to her voice as she remembered Wystan's exile. "If you ask me, this Syndicate seems to have a stranglehold on your city-state."

"I will admit your assessment is hard to disagree with, and I say this as a member of the Syndicate." Raubahn gave a bitter smile at Kallen's surprised expression. "How much do you know of the Syndicate?"

"Er...well, just going by what I've heard and seen I just assumed they were just the equivalent of the nobility for this city-state, from my experience those are the kind who want the status quo preserved for their benefit over the common folk." The rebel turned adventurer answered. "Am I wrong?"

"That would be a better description of the Monetarist political faction, of which three of the Syndicate are members, whereas my allegiance lies with the sultana." Raubahn gave his answer. "The Syndicate is composed of six and was originally formed nearly two centuries ago as advisors from the mercantile class to help stabilize the balance of power between the royals and the rising merchants."

"Looks like that turned out great." Kallen commented with clear sarcasm, then stopped as she remembered. "Okay, I can see why you and the sultana are having trouble if the opposition is three to one, but what about the other two?"

"They prefer to remain neutral, though to their credit their reasons for it aren't out of self interest." Raubahn paused and looked over at Nanamo, who was currently speaking with Papashan. "Behind her mask of stately serenity, she is aghast at the plight of her subjects. But there will be no hope for the masses unless the crown is restored to power."

Kallen wasn't sure what to say about that. Sure, she agreed with what Raubahn and by extension Nanamo wanted, but the situation her homeland was in plus the fact these guys were only a step above acquaintances to her made the prospect of agreeing to the Highlander's last statement awkward.

Fortunately, Raubahn wasn't expecting a response and continued as he gave Kallen an appreciative look. "I am truly grateful for all you have done for Ul'dah. But there is so much more to do."

Before the redhead could reply, she noticed a gleam of light coming from right below her. Looking down showed it was coming from her bag.

"That light - - what is it?" Rauhbahn asked, having seen it as well.

It didn't take long for Kallen to find the source of the light as she brought out the crystal she had found after that fight with the voidsent when she'd unknowingly first met Nanamo. The crystal was currently shining the brightest it has since she'd found it.

"So bright…" Raubahn commented. "Almost like...By the Twelve!"

"You recognize this?" Kallen asked.

"Perhaps." The Highlander then looked at the rebel turned adventurer seriously. "Tell me true: have you been troubled by strange dreams of late? Visions - - of the Crystal. Mayhap you put them down to an excess of aether?"

"Yes, that's exactly it!" Kallen exclaimed, surprised but glad someone could give her some solid information about all this weird business...well, weird even by this world's standards. "When it happens I get a headache, black out and then see stuff that's already happened but I'd never seen before. Can you tell me what it is?"

Raubahn was silent for a moment as he considered the other's words before speaking. "Yes. You are like they were…" He then turned and walked a few steps to gather his thoughts. "Allow me to explain. Before you came to Eorzea, there were others like you who fought the primals. Though they were not of this land, when the Garlean Empire the realm, they helped bring together the Grand Companies."

"So they helped prevent an invasion by the Empire, I wish I could have met these people." Kallen commented, meaning it.

"As do I." Rauhban nodded grimly, his gaze distant. "I can remember when they stood with us at Cartenau, that fateful day five years ago...The day we lost them…"

Kallen recognized that look well enough and let the man continue.

"None who survived had forgotten the heroes' sacrifice, nor would any man deny they fought alongside us." Raubahn explained. "But the names of these heroes come not to our lips. The once-familiar pages of their story are now blank to us. And in our mind's eye, their faces are naught but silhouettes amid a blinding glare…"

The redhead once again found herself unsure what to say. Sure, Momodi had given her a brief summation of what Raubahn was telling her now, but to hear it from someone who had been there and experienced it made the loss more understandable.

Raubahn turned back to regard Kallen. "When I look at you, I cannot help but think of them, and of what you might achieve."

That statement, plus Raubahn's calm yet hopeful look, immediately reminded the redhead about how this had started for her with that miqo'te from her that dream or vision that had led to her arrival in Eorzea. Sure, she had been helping people along the way, but despite that the whole hero talk of that vision had kept going to the back of her mind and this time in Eorzea was more a means to acquiring both strength and an advantage for her resistance cell. Yet at this moment, it was coming to the forefront and Kallen was beginning to consider just how daunting a responsibility she may have taken on.

"You must protect that crystal at all costs." Raubahn's voice interrupted her thoughts. "It is a gift from Hydaelyn, Mother of all - - and one She gave to you for a reason."

(So that was a kami after all…) Kallen thought to herself as she considered the huge crystal from before and the voice she'd heard from the beginning.

"Any idea what the reason could be?" The rebel turned adventurer asked in reply.

"I cannot say for certain, but I will entertain a guess." Raubahn then smiled warmly at her. "I am certain that yours is no ordinary tale. If I am right, the fate may yet hang upon your deeds."

"Way to pile on the pressure." Kallen commented dryly to which the other gave a hearty chuckle.

"Only heroes and martyrs are fit to bear such a burden." The Highlander said. "Let us pray you are the former."

Kallen was about to give a very sarcastic thanks in reply when a very familiar headache came upon her. She only had time glimpse concern come across Raubahn's face before blacking out.

---

A cloudy and blackened sky greeted both as their vision cleared, yet the dark was momentary as a red light came streaking down diagonally like a burning meteor. Followed by another, another and then many more until it became obvious these actually were meteors. As both viewers watched this fiery meteor shower, their gazes were turned upward and to a shocking sight. What had been a mass of falling stars were now dwarfed to seeming as mere pebbles as the sky above was fully alight by a massive red globular mass that was slowly descending.

The colossal sphere that was slowly but surely falling was glowing red with an intense heat, an incalculable number of strange blade like objects that glowed blue with odd marking were sticking out of the burning surface as if they had been stuck in there some time before and cracks were forming around them that seemed to pulsate with a similar azure glow, and from those cracks bits of what were the surface were breaking off only to fall as the smaller meteors from before. As they saw this, both Lelouch and Kallen recognized this as the dark red moon from their prior vision involving their respective impromptu ally.

The vision began to shift, and both were shown brief looks at different places in Eorzea as the smaller meteors descended, some they each recognized but others neither did. As the falling stars began crashing explosively into the earth below, the vison changed again, seeming to pan up into the reddened sky before overlooking the beginning of a battle between armies as both sides were charging at each other. On one side were a vast mix of hyurs, elezen, roegadyn, miqo'te and lalafells all of them wearing the uniform and colors of their city-state's grand companies, while on the other side was an army uniformly garbed in black armor and alongside them strode what looked to be smaller primitive knightmare frames, but with a bird-like design.

The two watchers only saw as far the clash as the two sides met in the inevitable violent clash of close combat. Both could hear and feel the ringing of steel upon steel mixed in with a cacophony of battles cries as surely as if they were in the midst of the battle themselves, only for that feeling to rapidly fade away as their vision once again turned, moving away from the fight and upwards towards one of the high hills overlooking the battle. There Lelouch and Kallen saw a small encampment and upon each respectively recognizing Merlwyb and Raubahn surmised this must be the command camp and it was clear this was the Battle of Cartenau they had each been told of. There was a smaller blonde woman in white robes carrying a staff and wearing an elaborate headdress who looked to be of equal rank standing with them, though neither of watching pair recognized her.

All three leaders were issuing orders via linkpearl as they observed the ongoing battle. Yet as this went on, Lelouch and Kallen noticed movement on another hill some distance behind the command camp and could barely make out a shadowy figure standing atop it. The blonde woman seemed to notice something was wrong and glanced back in the direction of the hill, studying it for a time.

"Is aught amiss?" Merlwyb asked, having noticed the other's action and turned to her.

The white robed woman turned back and shook her head before answering, "No… It is nothing."

At that moment, one of the falling meteors seemed to change its trajectory as curled and streaked towards the camp only to be blocked by a magical barrier that flared blue as it did so. Despite this there were many cries of distress from the soldiers there, which Raubahn quickly shouted down to restore morale.

Frowning, the blonde woman looked turned to look at the hill once again.

"We are being watched…" She said, this time having spotted the distant figure on the hill.

The vision changed again, once again panning up towards the great falling moon that had been drawing ever closer from above only for it to come to a sudden stop whole still hovering in the skies above. Suddenly, one of the blade-like protrusions burst out from its place on the red surface and it crashed into the raging battle below. Strangely, upon embedding into the ground and around people that gave the viewing pair a reference to the protrusion's height; it was as tall as a skyscraper.

Yet neither Lelouch nor Kallen had time to do more than briefly consider that as their view was locked upon the falling moon, which was now blazing as if a raging inferno was inside it. This time the very falling globe itself pulsated, cracks and various patterns breaking out in fissures of fiery light, before one after the other the remaining protrusions on its surface gave way and proceeded to come off in the same manner as the first.

Immediately, the surface of the falling moon began to crumble away and it would have if a gigantic pair of wings didn't suddenly burst forth from the top section of the colossal fiery orb. A massive and ear-splitting roar could be heard by all as it came down from above and the crumbling moon lit up before exploding in a blast that dwarfed any either Lelouch or Kallen had ever seen by experience or video footage. With that, the meteor shower from before was replaced with one that made the first look like the calm and gentle event both watchers were used to seeing on Earth. With the destruction of the falling moon vast chunks of it came careening into the ground below at incalculable speeds, obliterating whatever had been there before ripping through the ground as easily as if it were paper. Fire seemed to erupt all around and in some places magma burst forth through the massive holes that the fallen remains of the red moon had created. The battle that had been raging before was concluded with no victor as soldiers from both sides scattered to escape the fiery devastation with their lives as it fell and erupted around them.

Yet that was only a prelude to the destruction to come, for another great roar from above signaled the presence of something else and for Lelouch and Kallen the vision showed that where the falling moon had been there was now a black and gold dragon of titanic size, its massive wings seeming to fill the skies it hovered in. The monstrous wyrm only hovered for a second before taking flight, and with each flap of its wings, countless beams of light shot in random directions, twisting about in their aimless trajectory before each striking a random spot below and eliciting an explosion of the same volume as the meteors that had just previously fallen.

The colossal dragon's flight propelled it faster than any aircraft either watcher knew as through the vision they watched as it literally flew all across the continent of Eorzea, leaving only fiery destruction in its wake as the beams of power it seemed to create simply by flying rained down on all that it came before. Yet as both viewed the destruction that rained down upon the entirety of Eorzea, the vision of the colossal dragon's fiery flight faded and disappeared from their sight. Within seconds their vision cleared and the sight that greeted the pair of watchers was a burning flag of Ul'dah's Grand Company: The Immortal Flames and beneath it lay the body of a solider that had probably been the flagbearer.

Their vision had returned to the command camp in the wake of the great dragon's reign of fire. All three of the grand company leaders were trying to gain contact with their troops, but the only one to have any success was Raubahn in contacting a commander named Jakes Ryder, going by the codename Mad Snake, only for the man and his unit to audibly perish in the dragon's relentless onslaught. As Rauhbahn cursed at the loss, the two women continued their attempts to contact their troops with no success and one of the soldiers present theorized the wyrm may be the source of the communications disruption.

Eventually the three leaders were forced to admit that the only option was retreat, though once again the name Louisoix came up as someone they did not wish to abandon in this retreat. A compromise was reached in which the blonde woman and her retinue would back this Louisoix up while Raubahn and Merlwyb would organize the retreat.

As the latter two began doing so, the blonde woman paused and looked out over what had been a battlefield moments before and now merely one of many sites of infernal disaster.

"The outcome of this battle was long since decided." She stated while grimly surveying the fiery scenery before her. As she continued to speak more of the dragon's beams fell in their random trajectory, setting all that she could see before her alight in an explosive inferno. "Better to retreat now, than risk a massacre."

As she turned away, the blonde found herself looking at that distant hill behind her that had strangely been spared the mass destruction. The black figure was still standing on top of it and its presence somehow seemed more apparent. Placing her hand over her heart, the white robed woman closed her eyes as if in meditation.

"This dark, stifling presence…Who…or what…?" She wondered aloud before opening her eyes and then returning her attention to her retinue. "We go take our place besides Archon Louisoix! To your positions!"

With that the vision faded to black only to clear up seconds later, now focused on two black robed and hooded figures, their robes having what had become familiar looking marking and adornments. Now they had a name to associate with these hooded beings: Ascians.

These two Ascians were standing on top of a hill and surveying the disaster before them, and both Lelouch and Kallen were certain the one standing at the edge was the one that they and the white robed woman had spotted. It was then the vision moved close to the one on the edge, close enough that they could see beneath the hood, and that revealed an all too familiar red mask that only covered the upper half of its wearer's face.

The red masked ascian then spoke in a language neither Lelouch or Kallen should have been able to understand, yet a translation of what was being said seemed to etch itself into their minds.

"That I should live to behold Bahamut once more…" The red masked ascian said in a distinctly male sounding voice, its tone filled with sadistic glee. "Magnificent. The eons of imprisonment have only made him hungrier."

The other Ascian behind him approached, also revealing the mask beneath its hood and it was also familiar to the viewing pair. The black, glaring mask revealed this Ascian to be the one Lelouch and Kallen had just recently fought.

"I am aware of them." The red masked gave a confidant smile as he cut off whatever the black mask had to say. "Pay them no mind. They are powerless to act." Taking another look at the devastation being wrought even as he spoke, he continued. "It has begun. Soon the planet will regain its true form."

And as the titanic dragon's power continued to rain fiery destruction and death upon the world around the black clad pair, the red masked Ascian began to laugh as he raised his hands like the conductor of a grand orchestra. His triumphant and sinister laughter echoed in Lelouch and Kallen's ears even as light filled each of their eyes, and the vision ended.

---

Limsa Lominsa

Lelouch awakened to find himself lying on a bed, still dressed in his outfit he'd worn to the banquet and upon sitting up found he was in his room at the Adventurer's Guild Inn. While unsure how much time had passed since he had lost consciousness at the Admiral's party, the former prince couldn't help but think on the vision he had seen.

(So that was the dragon that brought about that Calamity in Eorzea five years ago. Baderon, Merlwyb and the others certainly weren't exaggerating when they regarded it as a world changing event.) The raven haired arcanist thought to himself. He tried imagining such a creature unleashed upon Earth and found himself shuddering. Oh, seeing such ruin brought upon the capital city of the Britannian Empire, Pendragon, was far from an unpleasant vision, but the widespread and undistinguished destruction was another. There wouldn't be a peaceful world for Nunnally if such a disaster struck the entire world, and worse no guarantee she'd be among the survivors.

At that a few more faces rushed to mind as he considered that, and Lelouch quickly pushed the troubling thoughts aside. He then considered the two Ascians; from what the one with the red mask had said they had clearly had at least some part in unleashing that monstrous thing and, as crazy as it sounded, bringing an entire moon down to on the planet.

(If any others like them are either present or start showing up on Earth, I need to figure out a way to deal with them.) The former prince mentally noted. The prospect of anything like that dragon suddenly being unleashed right in the middle of a crucial battle in his planned rebellion was legitimately horrifying. Then an odd stray thought came to mind. (That Ascian called the dragon Bahamut, but in the Middle Eastern mythologies that was some kind of fish-like creature if memory serves…)

Lelouch then shook his head, inwardly reminding himself that trying to match the myths of his world with what he was encountering in this one would always prove to be a pointless effort. Yet there was still a part of him that insisted on the compare and contrast. That was, thankfully, interrupted by a knock at his door.

"Come in." Lelouch said, and the door opened to reveal it was Baderon.

"Mornin' sunshine. All a bit much for ye, was it?" The bearded guildmaster asked in a mirthful tone.

"Perhaps, what happened last night?" The former prince asked cautiously in reply.

"…What 'appened? Ah, ye don't remember, then." Baderon said. "Ye keeled over in the middle o' the banquet, an' caused a right stir. 'Ad to carry ye back to the Wench meself. Well, I say 'carry'… 'twas more a matter o' draggin' an' rollin'. Too much cake, I reckon."

"What kind of cake could…never mind." Lelouch said as he got to his feet, feeling a little embarrassed at the idea of being literally dragged unconscious from the social gathering. He was certainly glad this wasn't one back home organized by Milly, because then he wouldn't hear the end of it. That, and it would probably worry Nunnally, which made him add another mental note to consider how to plan around these visions should any happen back on Earth.

Baderon seemed to notice this and in a supportive tone, "Anyroad, don't fret - -tis little wonder ye was exhausted after everythin' ye've been through lately. Yer, little nap seems to 'ave put some color back in yer cheeks, though, so I'll leave ye to it."

With the former prince's thanks, the bearded guildmaster turned to leave only to stop and turn back as he clearly remembered something.

"…Bugger! I almost forgot, the Admiral wants to 'ave a word with ye." Baderon said.

With that, Lelouch was given directions to meet Merlwyb in the command room plus a joking reminder not to fall asleep this time.

"I'll make sure to grab some coffee from Bismarck before our meeting, then." The former prince said sarcastically before waving Baderon off so he could make sure he was ready for it. Personally, he doubted any amount of caffeine would help though, given the visions were clearly of a supernatural nature.

---

"Ah, Lelouch, it is good to see you on your feet again." Merlwyb said in greeting as the former prince entered the command room. "You are recovered?"

"I believe so." Lelouch answered with a nod. "Anyway, Baderon said you needed to speak with me."

"Then let us waste no time." The Admiral replied. "I have a task that needs doing - -one I would entrust to no other." At the raven haired arcanist's quick acceptance of the assignment, she continued. "The duty I have in mind for you requires some explanation. I do hope you have not made other plans. To business, then."

(If it requires a lengthy explanation from the Admiral herself, this must be quite the significant job.) Lelouch thought to himself. All the more reason to take this one seriously as a well accomplished job from a head of state would do wonders for his growing reputation and could lead to future advantages.

"I have penned a letter to each of my counterparts in the Eorzean Alliance." Merlwyb explained and handed Lelouch two sealed letters before turning away and looking out the large window behind her. "The Battle of Cartenau and the Calamity that followed claimed countless lives. It has been five years since those of us who were spared dragged ourselves from the ashes to look upon an Eorzea we scarcely knew…" There was a sigh as her tone became weary. "Five years, and yet the people still suffer…Their lives are fraught with worry and hardship, and the Warriors of Light who might once have given them hope are gone."

There was a pause as Merlwyb turned back to face Lelouch, whatever weariness had been on her face before was gone as she had reassumed her usual serious expression and she said, "Yet we must press on regardless. We will never truly do so, however, till we have faced our past. To that end, I am proposing that a memorial service be held in each of the city-states on the fifth anniversary of the Battle of Cartenau. These letters contain the details of said proposal. And I would have you deliver them to our allies as my personal envoy."

"Thank you, Admiral." The former prince said as he did his best to keep a straight face. This assignment clearly meant having access to travel to the other city-states and with that access to their magic teaching guilds. The next step on the road to power to eliminate Britannia and heal Nunnally.

"You have proven yourself to be a staunch and able ally to Limsa, but that is not my only reason for choosing you." Merlwyb stated. "No, I choose you because you possess a quality which puts me in mind of history's champions. A quality I feared lost. Say that you will perform this duty."

"You can count on me, Admiral, you can consider this duty performed." Lelouch answered with almost complete sincerity. Even with the anticipated personal benefits aside, the former prince knew only a fool would have said no. Going to the other city-states and meeting their leaders meant making new advantageous connections, plus learning more of this world and what potential assets he could utilize later.

"I knew you would not disappoint me." Merlwyb said with a grateful smile. "This task will take you far from the borders of our nation, to the city-states of Gridania and Ul'dah. A grueling journey, to be sure…were you to travel by sea and land. But I mean to have you take to the skies." She then handed Lelouch a card. "An airship pass, to be used at your discretion."

From there, Merlwyb gave the former prince brief directions on where the airship landing was located and instructed him to speak with Baderon for further details. She then brought up other parties in the city had requested he be given such a pass as well out of gratitude for his deeds as an adventurer. He then remembered Thubyrgeim's plans and was about to ask if she had been notified of airship travel was available again but remembered the acting arcanist guildmaster's words. That still left him with one more thing to do before leaving Limsa Lominsa, though.

Lelouch was about to take his leave when there was a knock at the command room's door announcing a message from Ul'dah. Merlwyb permitted them enter and upon receiving and reading the message, gave a chuckle before turning to the ex-royal turned adventurer.

"It would appear my counterpart in Ul'dah was of similar mind, and that will require a small adjustment to your task, Lelouch." She said before explaining.

---

Ul'dah

Kallen groaned as she opened her eyes to find herself in the bed of her room at the inn, not out of weariness but out of what that vision of the Battle of Cartenau had shown her. She'd never thought she'd see something that dwarfed Britannia's conquest of Japan in terms of destruction, but that Calamity was unquestionably it.

"Dragon…more like a damned daikaiju." She muttered to herself as she got up, finding she'd apparently slept in her adventuring outfit.

There was a knock at the door to which the redhead opened it to find that her visitor was Momodi.

"How you feelin', Kallen?" The redhead lalafell asked as she was let in.

"Well rested, I guess." Kallen answered, deciding not to bother her fellow redhead with the details. Even if the guildmaster didn't think she was crazy, the Japanese pugilist wasn't even sure how to begin to summarize that vision.

"They said you fainted in the middle of one of the General's stories. I had to have you carried back to the Hourglass." Momodi explained and gave a lighthearted smile. "I reckon you made quite an impression on your fellow guests, though probably not the sort you intended."

"Yeah, that about sums it up." Kallen said, secretly glad this hadn't been at a Britannian social event given how the nobility and their toadies were given to talking so as to make even the most minor mess up seem scandalous.

Momodi seemed to notice the weary expression thinking of things from back home brought on the other's face, as she commented, "You sure you're getting' enough rest, Kallen? The life of an adventurer can be pretty taxin'."

Seeing the look of concern on the guildmaster's face, Kallen couldn't help but smile in appreciation as she gave a nod. "It's fine, Momodi. I'm feeling well, just got reminded of something bad is all."

Momodi seemed to accept that. "Anyroad, I'm glad to see you're back to normal. No offense but lookin' after you was getting' a bit tiresome. Oh, 'fore I forget, the General left a message for you. Said that when you're feelin' up to it, you should come and see him at the Hall of Flames. Probably wants to finish the story he was tellin' you when you fell asleep."

"I'll try to stay awake this time." Kallen said dryly before they both left the room.

---

The front area of the Hall of Flames, the headquarters of Ul'dah's Grand Company: The Immortal Flames, was a short walk from the adventurer's guild and Kallen quickly found Raubahn there waiting for her. It was clear the man had some kind of important task for her as they began speaking, to which the rebel turned adventurer said she was willing to accept and Raubahn handed her a pair of sealed letters.

"I've prepared these letters for my counterparts in the Eorzean Alliance." He explained and noticing the questioning look on the other's face. He turned to look out upon the streets of Ul'dah before continuing. "Five years ago, we looked on, powerless as our brothers and sisters were taken from us at Cartenau - -first by the Garleans, and then by the thrice-damned primal called forth by their treachery."

"Hold on, the Garleans brought that thing!?" Kallen asked and then realized her outburst. "Sorry, uh—look, do you remember those visions you mentioned last night at the party? That's what happened when I collapsed; there was a big battle, an even bigger dragon coming out of a red moon and…well, you and two women were at your command base watching as it happened."

"I see." Raubahn nodded gravely. "Yes, it was the Garleans who brought down the lesser moon of Dalamud, which held the primal Bahamut within. It was the work of a Legatus of the Garlean Empire, Nael van Darnus, may he burn in the seven hells."

Noticing the obvious contempt in Raubahn's voice, Kallen was silent for a moment before speaking.

"Still, why the hell would they do that? Smashing a moon into where you plan to conquer or unleashing something that will attack your side in addition to the enemy is beyond stupid, it's just plain crazy!" She exclaimed, inwardly hoping never to encounter a situation where the Britannian Empire went that far.

"The only ones who could know now are the gods. By the time of the Battle of Cartenau, van Darnus had been slain quite some time prior by the band of adventurers who fought by our side that day." Raubahn sighed. "Not a day goes by that I do not think of my fallen comrades…And the Warriors of Light of whom no trace remains."

Raubahn then turned back to face Kallen before continuing. "The tragedies of the Calamity are not so easily forgotten - -nor should they be. In remembering all we've lost, we're reminded of what we still have. And so I mean to mark the fifth anniversary of the Battle of Cartenau with a memorial service honoring the fallen.

"Sounds like a good idea to me." Kallen commented. She had a feeling once Japan was freed, she and Naoto would be organizing something similar.

"Glad to hear it." Raubahn replied. "I've been hoping my counterparts in the Alliance would agree to the same, and a brief exchange of communications with the one in Limsa Lominsa may well prove it correct."

"What did they say?" The redhead asked.

"I would have you bear my words to the Alliance leaders as my personal envoy, and it would appear the Admiral has made a similar decision." Raubahn answered. "There was some trouble in La Noscea that a rising adventurer played an important role in resolving and they were chosen as her envoy."

"Well, that's quite…a coincidence." Kallen paused as the realization hit her. A new adventurer in another city-state in a similar position as hers? There was a good chance this might answer the lingering question regarding who she'd glimpsed in that vision days ago.

Raubahn misinterpreted Kallen's response as surprise regarding herself and said, "Why you? Because your deeds mark you out as the nearest thing I have to a Warrior of Light. I can think of none more worthy of the role. The question is: will you accept it?"

"O-Of course! I'll gladly accept!" The Japanese pugilist answered. Even if there wasn't that question that needed answering, being able to go to another city-state meant more opportunities to find ways to finally give more to the cause to liberate Japan.

"Then it is agreed." Raubahn said with enthusiasm as he palmed his fist. "The envoy from Limsa Lominsa will be arriving soon via airship to meet with me, from there you will journey to Gridania and Limsa Lominsa as my personal representative alongside the Admiral's."

As Raubahn proceeded to give Kallen a pass allowing her to use the airships for travel, she couldn't help but wonder how she was going to deal with things if she was right.

"Is there anything you can tell me about this other envoy?" She asked.

The other shook his head. "I am afraid the communication had to be kept brief for much the same reason airship travel is no longer available to all. The ever-present threat of imperial attack has forced us to impose drastic restrictions out of concern for public safety."

From there Raubahn began explaining how the passes for airship use were only granted under special circumstances. Though the redhead only half heard it over her internal cursing at the bad luck. All she could do was wait and hope she would be proven wrong.

---

Limsa Lominsa

"Personal bleedin' envoy!?" Baderon exclaimed after Lelouch gave him the news, visibly glad to hear it. He then noticed the bar still had its share of patrons, the closest at table being a pair of lalafells, and brought his voice down to normal.

"So ye'll be carryin' the word o' the Admiral 'erself to the leaders o' the Alliance!?" The bearded guildmaster asked, clearly only barely keeping his voice at normal.

"Yes, though from what Admiral Merlwyb informed me, I'm not the only envoy." Lelouch answered. "Apparently, Ul'dah's leader selected an adventurer to serve the same role and I'm to take the next available airship there to meet them."

"Bugger me, that's a coincidence…" Baderon commented. "Still, I knew ye was goin' up in the world, but I didn't realize ye'd got that bloody high."

"Aye-I was just as surprised myself." Lelouch found himself adding quickly, hoping he hid the stumble. The former prince inwardly swore to be more careful when casually speaking, especially when returning to Earth. If pirate slang started creeping into his words that would create a myriad of problems, be they his cover or from a certain blonde in charge of Ashford's student council. Fortunately, the cover seemed to work on Baderon.

"I'm proud o' ye, lad!" Baderon pumped his fist enthusiastically. "Thinkin' of 'ow far ye've come…why, tis enough to bring a tear to me eye! An' that ain't the ale talkin' neither - -well, not just the ale at any rate…"

"I'll give you thanks in advance to drinking to my good health and/or fortune." Lelouch said dryly.

"Bless the Navigator for steerin' ye my way." Baderon replied with a laugh before giving the raven haired arcanist a thoughtful look. " 'Course, this is only a start! Now ye've got yer 'ands on an airship pass, the 'ole of Eorzea's laid out before ye, like a fair maid on a feather bed. An' she's a big girl too, with plenty of enticin' nooks an' crannies!"

Lelouch sweatdropped at that, but he could see Baderon had been trying to get some kind of flustered reaction from him. Perhaps there was an upside to dealing with Milly's antics over the years.

"Congratulations, Baderon, you are the second person I know who would give exploring that kind of description." The former prince said smoothly.

"Ye've made me curious to meet the first one." Baderon replied with a grin. "If ye think we Lominsans are characters, wait till ye cross paths with the grim forest dwellers o' Gridania, or trade coins with the crafty merchants of Ul'dah. An' then there's the wild places where the beasties rule, an' no bugger with an onze o' sense sets foot…"

"It sounds like I have quite a bit to see." Lelouch commented.

"But yer a 'venturer, so I wouldn't let a little thing like that hold ye back." The bearded guildmaster said and gave a shale of his head. " 'Course it ain't all explorin' and' excitement. There's an 'eap o' troubles what plagues every nation, see - -tain't just ours. I'm talkin' intrigue an' infightin', beastmen an' their godsdamned primals aye, there's an ugly side to life an' sooner or later, yer bound to walk into it."

The latter part of Baderon's advice caused Lelouch to narrow his eyes on reflex.

"I've already walked into and through that side of life." The former prince said gravely, moments from his exile and survival of the invasion of Japan flashing through his mind. "I'm certain I'll survive the next time."

"I can see yer not just sayin' that on account o' bluster." Baderon noted seriously only for the tone to go back to its earlier lighter tone. "...And I'll wager there's bugger all out there you can't 'andle. Summat tells me yer goin' to be just fine."

A few more words were exchanged between the two before Baderon wished Lelouch luck and directed him to the airship lift. However, there was one more thing he wanted to do before departing and so he said one more thing to the bearded guildmaster.

---

One visit to Mealvaan's Gate and a word with Thubyrgeim, who had her own congratulations to offer, told Lelouch where to look. Ironically, he found K'lyhia in the Upper Deck area and seated under one of the trees around the public courtyard called the Aftcastle, which was very close to the Drowning Wench where he'd been speaking with Baderon.

K'lyhia didn't give any indication of noticing his arrival; she was just looking out into the courtyard with a melancholy look on her face. The former prince saw she had her ruined grimoire with her along with what looked to be a newer one, along with some ink and a quill that lay discarded between the two books. Apparently, she had tried making some sort of replacement herself but had given up at some point.

Deciding that bringing up the topic of grimoires wasn't a good idea, Lelouch decided to just focus on why he was there.

"K'lyhia, I understand if you aren't in the mood to talk, so I'll keep it brief." Lelouch said and seeing no reaction from the other continued. "You might not be seeing me for a while; I've taken a job that will be taking me to the other two city-states." There was an awkward pause as the raven haired arcanist wasn't entirely sure of the best sounding way to say the next part but went forward anyway. "I've given both Baderon and Thubyrgeim access to contact my linkpearl and to allow you to have it too in case you need to contact me...I'm just saying if you need me for anything you can contact me and I'll come as soon as I can."

For a moment there was silence and Lelouch wondered if maybe he could have worded things differently but was rewarded with a response from the pinkette.

"You...could have just left me a note…" K'lyhia said awkwardly, as she turned to look at the ex-royal turned adventurer, no negativity in her tone or expression. "Wouldn't that have been more convenient?"

"Maybe, but notes have a tendency to get read later than intended or lost." Lelouch replied with a shrug and then paused in hesitation before adding. "Also, I figured you might appreciate it better if I told you in person. No calculations on my part, just instinct."

"I see…" K'lyhia turned away for a moment but then slightly reversed it to glance back. "Thank you, Lelouch...I...I'll see you again…"

Knowing that was the end of the conversation, the former prince gave a respectful nod to his friend and a brief well wish before turning and heading to the nearest aetheryte that would take him to the airship lift.

---

Presenting the pass to the airship ticketer, a blonde miq'ote woman named L'nophio, had been an interesting one to Lelouch as she was aware of who he was by name and the reputation he'd been building.

"You're an inspiration to us all, sir!" L'nophio said as the look of awe never left her face. "Highwind Skyways is at your disposal! Will you be traveling with us today?"

After giving his affirmation and getting the ticket, Lelouch proceeded to the landing area and boarded the airship. As it took off and began to fly away from the city, the former prince then began to lapse into thought on the previous days' events, from the information gained to actually experiencing the rise in reputation he had been planning. The latter was giving him some complicated feelings he wasn't sure how to describe; he wasn't even sure if he'd call them troubling, just "weighted" in a way. He began to wonder if his mother had felt similar as she began the path that would lead her to knighthood and beyond, but after a few minutes pushed that aside. Marianne vi Britannia had been the closest thing to a hero...to a true knight to ever exist in that foul empire that never deserved her, while from Lelouch's view he was simply just imitating her in an effort to gain power.

Pushing the heavy thoughts aside, Lelouch decided to just look out over the side of the airship as it made its way to its destination of Ul'dah and take in the scenery. Airship travel was proving to be quite different from travel by airplane and more comfortable besides.

Meanwhile, unbeknownst to Lelouch, his departing airship had garnered quite a bit of attention in Limsa Lominsa. Right outside of the Drowning Wench a small crowd had gathered to watch the departure of their city-state's newest hero. Baderon was at the forefront and amongst the crowd was Y'shtola. Reyner, Thubyrgeim, Staelwyrn, Wawalago and Sisipu and many more. Many of them waved and cheered at the departing airship, while Y'shtola watched the vessel until it was nearly out of sight before taking her leave. Thubyrgeim then noticed a short distance away, K'lyhia was still seated beneath the tree near the courtyard but was also looking up at the airship as it flew away. Smiling to herself, the monocled acting guildmaster decided to let the bespectacled pinkette be for now.

Elsewhere in the city on a platform near the Bridge, Merlwyb also watched the airship Lelouch had boarded as it flew away.

Back to Baderon, the bearded guildmaster called after the airship as it began to fly out of sight.

"Good fortune to ye, Lelouch." He called with a wave, and many did the same, before continuing his words lowered more for himself. "The day'll come when yer name means the same as " 'ero" to the folk o' this realm. May ye walk in the light o' the Crystal."

---

Ul'dah

It was nearly nightfall by the time the airship arrived at Ul'dah's landing area and upon getting off the docked airship, Lelouch was directed to the central area of the city known as the Steps of Thal and head for the part of it known as the Royal Promenade. From there he was to head to the room known as the Fragrant Chamber where he would be met by a man known as the Flame General and his chosen envoy.

It took a while, but Lelouch was able to find the place thanks to the map the blue and gold book generated and the miniature aetheryte's also helped as markers. Upon arriving at the Royal Promenade, the former prince ascended the stairs. He was nearly at their end when he noticed ahead at the doors was another adventurer, guessing from their attire and stepping forward noticed it was a girl the same age as he was, with red hair that looked familiar and - -he stopped as the girl turned to face him as recognition hit him harder than anything he had encountered in Eorzea.

"So it was you." The girl said in an accusatory tone.

Lelouch found himself mentally uttering every curse he knew at himself for barely giving more than a passing thought at the possibility that any other could have been brought from Earth to Eorzea besides himself as he looked into the noticeably unhappy face of Kallen Stadtfeld.

AN: And with that, this monster of a chapter has been concluded. This thing reached 80 freaking pages! I'm pretty sure this is the longest chapter for anything I have ever written. Yes, I probably could/should have split this chapter but sheer stubbornness on my part made that impossible as I really wanted to reach this point. Pretty much from this story's conception I intended for Lelouch and Kallen to be partnered up as Warriors of Light, hence the title, with some Code Geass related stuff that will be revealed later explaining how Hydaelyn had the strength to have two Warriors of Light. I hope this isn't too much of a read for the reading folks and I can say that while I'm going to be taking a break, the next chapter will be shorter than this one as it's going to be more story transition focused. And now as a little bonus, a short omake, consider it an extra scene if you want XD:

Omake: The Maze of Nald'Thal

Lelouch groaned as he found himself in another part of the Coliseum, this one being the waiting area for the fighters. Looking at the book map again he began to retrace his steps to find this Royal Promenade.

(The only way the architecture of this city makes sense is if it was meant to confound invaders!) He thought to himself as his irritation grew.

Neither the map of the city from the blue and gold book nor one provided by the staff at the airship did any good accounting for the many stairways that led to each part of the city's many locations. He just hoped this didn't negatively affect the meeting he had been assigned.

Meanwhile, Kallen stood outside the Fragrant Chamber, waiting for Limsa Lominsa's envoy and the moment of truth. The door opened to reveal Raubahn.

"I have received word that the envoy's airship arrived, have you seen them?" He asked Kallen, who shook her head in reply. "Perhaps I should have assigned someone from the Immortal Flames or the Sultansworn to bring them directly here. It can be difficult to navigate Ul'dah for a newcomer."

"That's definitely the truth." Kallen agreed, shuddering as she remembered her first couple of weeks in Ul'dah. She actually found herself feeling a little sorry for this envoy, Britannian or not.

Omake End