AN: Hello guys! Sorry for the delay. Just completed and handed in my 1st essay, and I have another three more to go. But anyway, I completed this up and it will be a while before I come up with a new chapter until I hand in my second essay this Saturday.
Anyway, time to respond to you awesome reviewers.
BruceNadeauJr: Mhm, I guess it's kinda obvious with what's going on. But thanks for your support! And once you do publish your story, I will definitely read it up :)
U-know Yunho: Yes, if she finds out she will definitely be upset. You'll see how it goes
GroundZeroFirework: hehehe, glad you liked the dialogue between the characters! And thanks, I'll do what I can
Time Heals All: Thanks mate! Ehehehe, glad you liked the characters being like one family! You really adore the Leia Alvin act huh... I'll see if I can highlight them without throwing off the plot. Ah yes, like I said, having fractured Milla in the story, I feel I should highlight what would happen if she was in it? Well for me, I believe the two Millas interactions in it will be interesting to see.
Well, I always believe Jude and Ludger are alike. They are protagonists in their own games so I believe Jude having concern for him makes sense. Thanks for your support
Haseo55: Well, that is definitely true in a sense. And thanks :D
Riku Uzumaki: Hmmm... I guess I can see what you mean. But like I said, with fractured Milla in the story, I wish to cover a lot of possible dialogues the group will have now that she's included. So I will include here and there
chronotimeguard : Indeed. Someone definitely has to pay the price. It needs a balance. No one can have everything. But only question is how it will play out? Thanks! I try to update quickly without ruining quality but it'll take time now that I got essays to do
TheAnime4Fan: Hahaha, thanks! I know, entering two Millas is a little tough but I think it really makes the story so much more interesting. There are a lot of ways to do this. I'm hoping another writer takes up this path to see how they will do it differently.
Yeah well, destroying other worlds the characters dont have much of a choice. I understand how you feel
That Mysterious Reader: Thanks mate! Hmm... well, I don't think I'll do the coliseum but elite monsters... maybe? We'll see how it goes
Mr. AE Hachi-Roku: Ah yes, don't worry, I got it covered. I know that Elle gets time defactorized but the next chapter or so will explain the huge differences between game canon and my story. Don't worry, I will definitely cover everything up.
Well that's all for response! I hope you guys will enjoy this chapter!
CHAPTER 8: THE FINAL WAYMARKER
Two days had passed after the party had defeated Greydawn Fang at the Sapstrath Highroad and claimed its reward. The next day, the party departed from Sharilton and returned to Elympios. Elle needed to recover from her scratch, although she was actually fine. Alvin suffered a mild concussion but a day's rest was enough for him.
At the moment, 'fractured' Milla was on the way to Jude's apartment in Trigleph. She was actually just looking for Milla, but she had a pretty clear idea of Milla's whereabouts. After a couple of minutes, 'fractured' Milla was before Jude's place. She knocked a couple of times on the door before Jude opened the door. He was wearing his usual attire except the lab coat was absent.
Jude was startled to find 'fractured' Milla at his place. "Oh Milla! Err… w-what are you doing here?"
"Milla's supposed to meet me. I have a feeling she's here, am I right?"
As if on cue, Milla appeared in sight behind Jude. "Milla! What are you doing here?"
'Fractured' Milla sighed, "You said you'd like to learn 'that' today, remember?"
Milla stared blankly for a moment before it hit her, "Ah yes. We did make such an arrangement. My apologies. Excuse me for a quick moment but I'll change into my attire and meet you out in a minute."
Milla disappeared into another room to dress up. Jude was left alone with 'fractured' Milla. Jude scratched his head with a nervous smile, "So err… what are you Millas up to today?"
'Fractured' Milla ignored the question and had a knowing smirk on her face, "So Jude… do you mind explaining why exactly my 'other' self is just wearing your lab coat as her clothing…?"
"W-w-wait! Don't get the wrong idea! I, w-we didn't do anything! I swear! But I only just realized that Milla… well, she's a spirit and her clothing sort of materializes with her powers! So, well… when she sleeps, she becomes… well, she's naked! But I didn't do anything! That's why she only has my lab coat on!"
"I know… She's Milla after all. I know what she's thinking. As much as she wants to be intimate with you, she still puts her duty first. I know I'd do that if I was… well, anyway…" 'Fractured' Milla thought for a moment and then said with a smile, "Well, if Milla didn't tell you, then I have no right to tell you what our plans are." Jude realized this was one of the first times 'fractured' Milla actually gave an honest smile towards him. Before this, she had always been keeping to herself, perhaps a little resentful even. She only ever got close to Ludger and Elle because they were the only ones that knew nothing of the prime Milla.
A short while later, Milla was dressed and went out to meet her 'other' self. 'Fractured' Milla moved on but before Milla followed, she quickly gave a quick peck on Jude's cheek. Jude did not have a chance to react as Milla quickly went off to catch up with 'fractured' Milla. Jude shut the door and returned to his small study room to continue reading on research materials. He was going through them and jotting down notes when his GHS started ringing.
Jude picked it up, "Hello? Oh… yeah, I'm not doing anything much right now. Huh? Meet in front of the Spirius headquarters? What's going on? You mean…? Right, I'll meet you there."
Skit: The two Millas
Milla: So… where do you intend to teach me how to cook?
'Fractured' Milla: Where else? Ludger's place obviously! I mean, he has all the materials we'll need! Besides, he might be able to give in some extra tip for you. But I should be more than enough to be your teacher!
Milla: …I see you view Ludger in quite a positive light… despite what he was forced to do.
'Fractured' Milla "…How do you know?
Milla: Have you forgotten? During my absence, I saw through your 'eyes' so I know what happened.
'Fractured' Milla: *looks serious*…Well what am I supposed to do? In the beginning, of course I hated it. I detested him! What would you feel for a person that killed your sister?! The one that destroyed everything you loved? But… then I learned from everyone why he had to do it. I still find it disgusting for you all to destroy fractured dimensions but… I understand why he has to destroy them. And… I know that Ludger hates doing his job. I can tell from his eyes. He saved me when I should have disappeared from existence… so despite what Ludger has done, I know in his heart, he will not destroy the fractured dimensions if he had a choice. It's how he is."
Milla: …You're right… none of us wants to be destroying another world. Ludger holds the greatest burden among all of us. If there was another way, we'd do it.
'Fractured' Milla: So… you're spending the night at Jude's place again…"
Milla: Yes?
'Fractured' Milla: …Well, aren't you going to look for your own place?
Milla: I will only be in the human realm temporarily. I realize there is no need for that.
'Fractured' Milla: *Grins*And getting to spend the night with Jude is not your aim? I'm sure you're enjoying the time spending human 'contact' with Jude."
Milla: *Blushing* don't be absurd! Th-that's… well, I mean… well, what about you? You're still living with Ludger aren't you?
'Fractured' Milla: W-well, I still haven't found a place yet! And I can help take care of Elle when Ludger's away doing errands! So I'm still helping out.
Milla: ….
'Fractured' Milla: …
Milla & 'fractured' Milla: *Laughs*
XXXXXXXXXXXXX
While the two continued walking towards their destination and sharing small talk, Milla observed that 'fractured' Milla was different now. 'Fractured' Milla was genuinely happy. She held a much more care-free attitude compared to Milla. Milla wondered if she was not the Lord of Spirits and a human, would she be like 'fractured' Milla? To not have to worry about her responsibilities and live the life as best you can. This was what 'fractured' Milla was doing. It was… a pleasant thought for Milla.
They arrived at Ludger's place a few minutes later and entered the place. Ludger turned towards them the moment he heard the door knob turn. "Oh good you're finally here."
'Fractured' Milla found it strange that Ludger was waiting for them. "What's going on?"
"I'm sorry but you'll have to cancel your cooking session today." Ludger said apologetically.
Elle appeared from Ludger's room, strapping her backpack on, "Yeah! Vera just called! We got a new mission to do!" Rollo meowed as if to support Elle's point.
Milla nodded in understanding, "I see… I guess we'll just have to postpone this."
"Sorry," Ludger apologized once more, "I've already called the others to meet at the front of the Spirius Corporation. We should head out now."
"You mean there's another fractured dimension to destroy?" 'Fractured' Milla asked. She dreaded the answer.
However Ludger shook his head, "It's not just a fractured dimension. We're going to get the final Waymarker."
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
The final Waymarker. The last piece that would allow them to reach the land of Canaan. Ludger knew he needed to focus. As much as his friends could support him, it would ultimately only be him who could detect and then destroy the divergence catalyst and obtain the final Waymarker.
When Ludger's group arrived at the Spirius Corporation, everyone was already waiting for them. Jude, Alvin, Leia, Rowen and Elize with Teepo. Gaius could not be contacted however since he did not know how to operate his GHS. And Muzet was probably with him. They only could contact him if they managed to find him in the streets. For now, this will have to do.
Alvin gave a wave, "Ludger! Millas! Elle! Guess we're good to go huh?"
"You seem excited." Leia commented.
"And why not? Didn't Ludger tell you? We're finally getting the final Waymarker! We'll finally be done with it and get to the land of Canaan!"
Rowen agreed, "Indeed! Our journey is almost at an end!" Elize nodded in agreement.
"Ludger," Jude said suddenly, "I need you to accompany me for a moment to prepare for the journey."
Rowen snapped his fingers at the suggestion, "Ah good thinking Jude. This is for the final Waymarker. We should make ample preparations before we leave."
"It's okay Rowen. I and Ludger will get the items we'll need. You guys just wait here for a moment." Jude replied. Jude then turned to Ludger, "Let's go." Milla eyed Jude suspiciously at this. Milla already noticed Jude was weird since returning from Sharilton two days ago.
Ludger nodded and followed Jude. Ludger had a feeling it was not just to prepare for the trip. Jude's eyes told Ludger there was something else other than just preparation. Ludger and Jude made their way towards the commercial district, leaving their friends at the front of the Spirius building. Jude and Ludger bought the apple and lemon gels that they thought would be enough. It was an awkward silence between them. It was never this quiet between the two, Ludger decided not to say anything. After they have bought everything and left the commercial district, Jude then started it.
"Ludger… you know what it means to get the final Waymarker." Jude said, turning to Ludger while they walked.
"…It's the only way Jude. There is no other way to get the Waymarker."
"You might be fine with it but I'm not!" Jude exclaimed now, furious, "You're destroying your own body by using the Chromatus! And you don't even know how to stop it! At this rate… who knows what will happen?"
Ludger knew Jude was correct. But Ludger only looked forward, "We have no choice… only I can use the Chromatus and we can destroy the divergence catalyst and obtain the final Waymarker through me. Don't forget Jude, we need to get all five Waymarkers to get to the land of Canaan and beat Origin's trial…"
"And what about Elle?" Jude questioned. That question stunned Ludger and Jude knew he had him. "Haven't you considered how Elle will feel if you die? You're all she has… not just her, but how do you think all of us will feel if you sacrifice yourself?"
Ludger remained silent. He had no answer to that. He never considered how Elle would feel if he was gone. Elle looked up to Ludger. She did not know where her father was. If Ludger was gone, then she'd be lost in the world.
"Jude, do not hinder his resolve." A female voice said, appearing in front of the two.
"Milla?" Jude cried out, "W-what are you doing here? Wait, did you hear… everything?"
Milla nodded, "I apologize for eavesdropping but I was worried about you." Milla said, moving closer towards Ludger and Jude, "You have been acting strangely since returning from Sharilton. I said I would wait for you. However, I did not consider that it would be concerning this." Milla turned to Ludger, "So is it true? The Chromatus form you're using… it's a double-edged weapon?"
Jude flinched at the word 'double-edged'. It was just merely confirming to the fact that Ludger was really hurting himself. But then again, Jude knew that. He just did not wish to admit it.
Ludger nodded, "Yes… but I cannot tell you more than that… because I don't know myself. I know that every time I use the Chromatus, the inside of my body… feels like it is swallowing me. That's all I know. I guess… having such a power must have its drawbacks."
"I see… but even so, you're still pushing forward. I respect you for that." Milla turned to Jude and saw his pained look. She then faced Ludger again, "Jude is worried about you… and I'm sure the rest will be as well if they learn the truth. However, it is ultimately your decision Ludger Kresnik. Just like how I do not take my position as the Lord of Spirits lightly, the name 'Kresnik' that you bear is not to be taken lightly. I am not asking to send you to your death. But I am asking you to see to it that the name 'Kresnik' be the one that beats Origin's trial. We need you Ludger."
"Milla, this is too much for Ludger!" Jude protested, "There must be another way!"
Milla shook her head sadly, "Ever since I learned of his name, I knew… I knew that we will need him. The 'Lance of Kresnik'… the power of that weapon was frightening… and here is Ludger who shoulders that name. The Kresnik line is powerful… and to defeat Origin's trial, we will need him. Ludger is the main actor… and as the supporting actors, all we can do… is help him on his way."
Jude listened to Milla's words and although he hated it, he made no comment. This was the only way. Ludger Kresnik. The key to saving this world must be solved through a member of the Kresnik line. Ludger is the key.
"Let's go." Milla said, "And don't worry… I'll respect your wishes of not wanting anyone else to know. It's the least I can do."
Ludger nodded and led the two back to the Spirius Corporation. Ludger strengthened his resolve. In his heart, he thanked Jude for caring so much for him. He thanked Milla for reminding him why he had to do this. It was for the sake of securing the world's future, a world where Elle could continue to live in. This was for her sake now. Even if it meant that every time he used the Chromatus was his body.
At the Spirius Corporation, everyone gathered the equipment. Everyone was prepared for the journey.
"So after this, we can finally get to the land of Canaan, right?" Elle asked enthusiastically.
Ludger looked at Elle and at her happy face. Her smile was bright and her eyes glittered with hope. In that moment, Ludger now understood how his brother Julius felt. He knew how it felt to want to protect something precious with your life.
Ludger ruffled the little girl's hair with a grin, "That's right! Then you can make that promise for your daddy!" Elle was so happy she didn't mind Ludger treating her like a kid.
Ludger sighed and moved into position. He transformed into his Chromatus form and created the portal to transfer to the fractured dimension. Alvin, Rowen and Leia entered first. Elle followed after them along with 'fractured' Milla. Milla was behind her 'other' self but she stopped for a moment. She took a quick glance at Ludger and then entered as well. Jude was the last to enter.
Jude took a step before the portal and then glared at Ludger. Neither said a word. Ludger saw in Jude's eyes a mixture of emotions. Regret, sorrow and determination. It was just like Jude. Even though there was nothing they could do, Ludger knew what Jude said through his eyes. He would continue trying to find a way to make sure Ludger could live through this. And he appreciated Jude's gesture. With that, Jude entered the portal. It was Ludger's turn now. Creating and holding the power for that long used a lot of his energy and Ludger could feel a small amount of liquid seeping from the corner of his lips.
'I wonder how much more I can maintain this form.' Ludger thought in his mind.
Ludger entered the portal with the intention of obtaining the final Waymarker. However he had not realized that by entering this fractured dimension, he would receive more than just that. The truth of his Chromatus form.
CHAPTER END