AN: Hello guys! I bring to you all the new chapter for this story! I hope you all had a great new years! With that, let us respond to the generous reviewers!
Mr. AE Hachi-Roku: Glad that you were really touched on that chapter, hehe! Well, it was sort of necessary, although I hated it T_T
Hehe, yes many were asking where Julius was just as I was about to introduce him... guess I revealed him at the right time. Oh trust me, I really liked 'fractured' Milla. It just makes me so sad to watch that scene every time I do a playthrough. WHY?!
Ah thanks for pointing out my mistake ;)
U-Know Yunho: Happy endings is a great feeling, isn't it? *sniff*
err... okay? O_O a dead-pool character D:
Hello!
Silius1: Oh believe me, I know exactly what you mean. I've seen fanarts depicting them together like a family and every time I see that... damn, I just wished it happened in the game.
Gravenimage: I know what you mean T_T when I do a playthrough, I just can't help but get the true ending. It's sad, but it's a bittersweet ending really. It stays true to Ludger's character but goddamn... I just shed a tear now but when I first got that ending... I cried manly tears lol
ydshahid: HERE's A FLUFF! AND YOU HAVE A FLUFF! EVERYONE GETS FLUFF!
Haseo55: Indeed! You should enjoy it... while it lasts! huehuehue
Riku Uzumaki: So true... enjoy it for now, because Ludger will be going through a lot soon!
Aldehar: Indeed. Last chapter held a lot of fluffs, hehe.
Well, it's still pretty far off really. There will be some character chapters happening to create scenarios for 'fractured' Milla's addition. But yes, this story will soon approach the final chapter not too long now. Ah indeed the story has the characters in a better state of mind (Elle). And Julius... I have not too much plans, but I'm still thinking on any different role he can do that will change the outcome.
Ah yes, the story of Ludger and Julius's parents follows the game canon.
Haha, glad you enjoyed that little skit I threw in. I enjoy the skits (which I'm sure many do as well), so I thought why not try create a few in this story? It's not too hard I feel. I just need a topic and then have the characters stay in character. Imagine what a character would say without going OOC, hehe.
Nameless Knight: Ah no reason really.. I was just experimenting on different writing style. Wanted to see how it'd go by making organization or so have italics
That's right Alvin! D: tell the truth
TheAnime4Fan: Whoa damn... that's a big praise there, hahaha... thanks though! It means a lot.
Julius... well, his character of a caring brother has to remain true to character and so far, I have not thought of too much on any differences he can have. But who knows? Maybe I might come up with something, hehehe
Haha, glad you enjoyed the skit. No idea, when I write and see that a topic could be further explored, I just make sure the characters stay in character according to their responses :P Glad you enjoy them
Well that's it for responses! I hope you guys will enjoy this chapter!
CHAPTER 18: A DIFFERENT SHARILTON
Elle was brimming with excitement while she sat on the dining table at Ludger's apartment. It had been two days since the party left Xian Du. Ludger had made a speedy recovery and was now taking it easy.
At the moment, he and 'fractured' Milla were at the kitchen counter, preparing lunch side by side. Ludger handled cooking the main dish while 'fractured' Milla was in charge of the soup. The tense atmosphere in their relationship was gone, but it had not progressed as well. For Ludger, he decided he would wait until she was ready.
As for 'fractured' Milla, she understood Galland's parting words; to not assume that friends or family would always be there. But, things now were perfect again. Although she still had not given an answer to the 'confession', she felt that for now, it was enough of an answer. Besides, the thought of bringing up that 'event' at Drellin was too embarrassing for her. For now, she considered their reconciliation as a short answer.
"Is it done yet?" Elle whined, "You guys are taking foreveeeerrrr."
"You're always complaining." 'Fractured' Milla retorted, "Instead of just sitting there, how about you help us instead?"
"No way! Then who's going to keep Rollo company?" To emphasize her point, Elle picked up the large cat to show 'fractured' Milla. Rollo added a long 'meow', as if supporting Elle's point. Ludger released a small laugh at the sight.
'Fractured' Milla gave a light kick on Ludger's shins. As he yelped in pain, she admonished him, "You spoil her too much."
It was not too long before the food was done and they all had their lunch together. As usual, Ludger's dish main focus was a tomato oriented dish, but he made a separate dish for Elle without the tomatoes. Elle enjoyed 'fractured' Milla's soup and much to her delight, Elle said that her soup was on par with Ludger's. It was almost like an achievement to her.
After they were done eating, Ludger and 'fractured' Milla helped wash the dishes. Elle played with Rollo on the opposite side, fits of giggle escaping from her. While they were washing, Ludger unfortunately went into a fit of coughing. Elle and 'fractured' Milla recognized this, both stopping what they were doing and switching their attention to Ludger. But they could not help him. There really was nothing they could do. He covered his mouth with his right hand, coughing into it. 'Fractured' Milla saw a small amount of blood painting his hand, but once the coughing ended, he quickly washed his hand without letting them see.
"Ludger…" Elle said softly, her eyes tearful.
Ludger turned to the little girl with a smile. His face and hand was clean, leaving no trace of his condition, "its okay Elle. It doesn't really hurt."
"I'm sorry…" 'Fractured' Milla apologized, guilt in her voice, "You… don't have to keep doing this."
Ludger turned to 'fractured' Milla, "If it's to keep you alive… if it's to make sure Elle and everyone I care about happy… I'm willing to do it. It's a small price to pay."
'Fractured' Milla was not surprised that Ludger experienced his fit of coughing today. It was just last night that she saw herself dissolving again. Without a word, Ludger turned into his Chromatus form and transferred his life force into her, stabilizing her. This could last to two days or so before she started dissolving again. Fortunately for them, at least Elle did not see the process. They wanted her to at least have some peace in mind. Of course, 'fractured' Milla would have preferred if Ludger did not have to do this at all, but it was necessary. It was the only way to keep her alive.
To change the subject, Elle thought of something, "Hey, how about we go find his Highness? He says he's always stalking people in Elympios right? It should be something fun to do!"
"He's observing people Elle, not stalking." Ludger corrected, "And I don't think we should-"
"I think that's a great idea!" 'Fractured' Milla interjected, supporting Elle, "It's not like we have anything to do, right? We're just waiting for Vera's call, so we should do something!"
"But still…" Ludger tried to protest.
"No buts!" Elle and 'fractured' Milla said in unison. Elle quickly pulled Ludger to the door, "Now let's go! We have to find him!" Ludger resigned himself and let the little pull him. Rollo went after the two.
'Fractured' Milla followed behind them, glad that the scene of Ludger's 'condition' earlier was forgotten. Every time she sees Ludger's sickness, it reminded her that she was the cause. It enhanced her guilt. Of course everyone told her that Ludger was doing it for her, telling her not to feel bad. But it was natural, isn't it? How could she not feel guilty when she was the cause of it all. And the worst part was that she could do nothing to help him. Nor could she change her situation. All she could do was support him in whatever way she could.
The three went through the streets of Elympios, searching for Gaius. For Elle, it was like a treasure hunt. As for Ludger and 'fractured' Milla, spending a relaxing time together with Elle, it sort of felt like they were parents. The idea seemed far-fetched, but it felt that way. As embarrassing as the thought was, neither of the two rejected the idea though. They could see it happening.
They found Gaius at Elympios's own seahaven, standing close to the inn. However, the king was not alone. By his side was the prime minister of Rieze Maxia, Rowen Ilbert and Elize was also present. Of course Teepo was with Elize as well. Surprisingly, Muzet was nowhere to be seen.
Gaius noticed the trio first, "Oh Ludger. What are you doing here?"
"We were looking for you, your Highness!" Elle greeted cheerfully. However when Gaius did not acknowledge the greeting, Elle realized her mistake, "Oh… I mean, we were looking for you Erston."
Now Gaius smiled, "I see… is there something you need?"
"Not really." Elle answered, "We just wanted to see what you're doing."
Rowen cleared his throat and spoke, "Well as you can see, Erston is simply… watching people… in a sense."
Gaius nodded, "Indeed. This is all for me to understand the mindset of the people of Elympios. As the king of Rieze Maxia, I must learn what I can to achieve true peace between our two nations."
Elize then asked, "But didn't both countries already sign the peace treaty?"
"Officially, our two countries are now bound to peace." Rowen explained while fiddling with his beard, "However what Gaius… I mean, Erston means by 'true peace' is where the people of the two nations accept one another. Unfortunately, at the moment there are many from both nations that feel… otherwise. So Erston wishes to understand the people… starting with Elympios."
Elle looked at Gaius with eyes of admiration, "Wow… you're really dedicated!"
Gaius grew a small smile, "Yes. A king lives for his people. He must do whatever is necessary that will benefit them. That is what I must be."
Normally kings would remain in their castle, ruling from his throne. But Gaius was different. He was a king that deeply cared for his people. Anyone who spoke with him could see that. Elle was beginning to understand that fact now.
Skit: Number one ruler (AN: Credit goes to "Jackpot 2" for giving this idea. The plot as well is also suggested.)
Present: Ludger, Elle, Gaius, Rowen, Elize, Teepo & Rollo
Elle: You're really one of the best kings I know Gaius!
Gaius: Thank you. I appreciate it.
Elize: But isn't Gaius the only king you know?
Teepo: Yeah, who else is there to compare?
Elle: No, there's another. So that makes Gaius only like, second best.
Gaius: …Second best? So who's the first?
Elle: Rollo of course!
Rollo: Meooow!
Gaius: …Preposterous! How is a cat a better ruler than me?
Elle: Oh there are a number of things that Rollo beats you in.
Gaius: Enlighten me.
Rowen: Hoho, when Gaius is fired up, nothing could hold him back. This has caught my interest as well.
Ludger: I… I think we should just stop before…
Elize: How about Gaius and Rollo give a speech? That way, we can see who the better ruler is!
Rowen: Indeed, a speech between the two is the only way to settle disputes among leaders.
Teepo: Alright! Gaius can begin then!
Gaius: *Clears throat* as the king of Rieze Maxia, everything that I have done have been for the people. There is nothing I do that does not benefit my kingdom. Even now, I desire to have a peaceful relationship between the nations of Rieze Maxia and Elympios. None shall prevent me from turning this into a reality!
Rowen: Ah, an impressive speech as usual. As expected of him. Now it's time for the cat emperor's turn.
Rollo: Meow! Meooow, meow meow! *Hisses and snarls* Meeeeow meow meow!
Rowen: I…. I am truly speechless. *Wipes a tear away*
Elize: *Clapping* It's so inspiring.
Teepo: Rollo's definitely getting my vote!
Elle: All hail Emperor Rollo!
Rollo: Meowww.
Gaius: *Unsheathes katana* If this is how it is, I will not have my rule be challenged by another! Come! Let us battle with our right of kingship on the line!
Rollo: Meow! *runs away*
Gaius: Do you have no honor?! *Chases Rollo*
Ludger: *Sigh*
XXXXXXXXXXX
After a while, Gaius gave his leave, stating he had other matters to attend to. However he claimed that he would settle the score with Rollo another time. With his character, Ludger was not surprised if he was actually serious about that.
Rowen, Elize and Teepo remained with Ludger, not following Gaius. Apparently their meeting in Elympios was just a coincidence. Elize wanted to go shopping and Rowen volunteered to accompany the young girl. For a prime minister, it was interesting that he was so relaxed and free that he could accompany Elize. It was probably because he cared deeply for her. Being a former butler, he probably still saw Elize as someone he needed to serve with his life, just like how he would give his life to protect Driselle.
Rowen gave a slight bow to Ludger and his entourage, "It was good to see you all, but we'll be taking our leave now." Then, an idea lit up in his head, "Oh… do you wish to join me in keeping Lady Elize company while she does her shopping?"
Elize instantly brightened up at the suggestion, "Yes, please join us! It'll be so much more fun with more people." Teepo danced around as well, "The more the merrier!"
'Fractured' Milla found the idea appealing and agreed to it, "Sure, why not?" She then said to Elle, "What do you think? It'd be nice to spend time with Elize?" Then she teased, "She is like a big sister to you, right?"
"N-no she's not!" Elle said quickly, flustered, "I mean… that doesn't matter! What are we shopping for anyway?" At this point, Elize looked saddened and Elle quickly tried to apologize, "Wait, did I say something wrong?"
Rowen stepped in, "Don't worry Elle, you didn't say anything wrong. You see, Lady Elize just wanted to buy something for Lady Driselle, but she doesn't know what to get her. She wants something to cheer Lady Driselle up, since she's been feeling… well, rather down lately."
"What's wrong with Driselle?" Ludger asked.
Elize hesitated before she answered, "It's… going to be one year since Driselle's brother passed away."
"Oh… I-I'm sorry…"
Elize shook her head, "That's why I want to get something for Driselle but… I don't know what to get her." Teepo then added, "Maybe you guys can help us brainstorm!"
To Elize's delight, Elle, 'fractured' Milla and Ludger all gave a nod to help her. It put a smile on her face to realize that she now had so many friends that would help her if she needed it. The new friends she had at school were nice, but they would not go out of their way to assist her. It really made her happy.
Unfortunately, the sound of Ludger's GHS ringing caught everyone's attention. Ludger picked up the call and it was the familiar voice of Vera on the other line.
"DODA here. We've detected a new fractured dimension. We'd like you take care of it as soon as possible. The rift is in Sharilton. I'll send you the coordinates on your GHS." Vera said as if she had rehearsed the line.
However instead of ending the call, Ludger asked, "Where's Bisley? I've still got the final Waymarker here."
"We are aware of that , but President Bisley is still away. Until then, you are to hold onto the Waymarker until he returns. That is all." And before Ludger could say anything else, Vera ended the call.
Ludger sighed and returned his GHS back into his pocket. Taking notice of that, 'Fractured' Milla inquired, "Another job?"
Ludger gave a nod, "A fractured dimension. The rift's in Sharilton." He was about to apologize to Elize and Rowen for bailing on them, but he never had the opportunity.
"I believe our shopping trip will have to be put on hold." Rowen stated, "We'll lend you a hand in accomplishing this job."
"That's right!" Elize supported, "That's what friends are for. Your jobs are never easy Ludger, so you need all the help you can get."
"But what about the shopping?" Ludger reminded.
"It's okay." Elize replied with a smile, "Besides, I still don't know what to get for Driselle. Maybe I'll get some ideas if I help you with this job." Teepo agreed, flying into Ludger's face, "Now stop moping and let's get going already!"
Ludger chuckled; glad that he found friends he could rely on. Elize was really kind, knowing that Ludger's job carried much more weight than helping her shop. Although she was only a child, her thought process was like an adult (although she was still naïve).
Ludger then took a quick glance at 'fractured' Milla. She knew why he was looking at her. Normally she would disapprove his jobs on destroying fractured dimensions. Now however, she supported him. Although she still despised the idea, she understood his reasons. She knew he had no say in the matter. That was all.
With the party decided, Ludger transformed into his Chromatus form and created the portal to travel into the fractured dimension. Using the coordinates given by Vera, everyone rushed in and they moved into a new dimension.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
The party arrived in Sharilton and instantly, they could see a difference. The city of Sharilton was one brimming with merchants and the joyful people. The windmills were the highlight of the city, spinning around greatly, always mesmerizing first-time visitors. The peaceful atmosphere was another highlight for Sharilton.
This dimension however, was different. There were hardly any merchants at the city's square and the people at the square seemed devoid of any life at all. Also, there were large amounts of of soldiers in the square, a bit too much for a city like Sharilton.
Elize looked around her in disbelief, "This… is Sharilton?" Teepo shared Elize's feelings, adding in, "This looks nothing like good, old Sharilton!"
Rowen had to agree with Elize's view, feeling his beard, "Indeed, this is a ghastly view of the city. Let us speak with the townspeople and get an understanding of the situation."
Unfortunately, most of the citizens were quite withdrawn. Even worse, when some saw Rowen, their eyes were fearful and quickly tried to avoid the group. It was truly a strange sight to behold.
"What's wrong with everyone?" Elle commented, "They're all so scared."
'Fractured' Milla shook her head at the sight, "It isn't normal, that's for sure. It's almost like they are all under a military regime."
That was what Rowen was afraid of. 'Fractured' Milla's comment was almost spot-on. The high presence of soldiers and the frightened citizens were the characteristic of such a society. But before he delved too deep in that thought, he reminded himself that this was a fractured dimension. Everything here was not real. Or he tried too anyway.
A merchant was carrying a large load of goods and did not see where he was going. As a result, he crashed into the group. Most of his goods went flying around, but the party quickly helped him gather his goods.
"So sorry! I wasn't looking where I was going and…" the merchant was saying when his gaze landed on Rowen, "O-oh! S-s-s-sir Ilbert! I… I apologize! Please! I… I did not know it was you."
"Please, it was not your fault." Rowen said gently but the merchant was still frightened.
"F-forgive me, please!" The merchant pleaded.
With the whole ruckus, attention was thrown towards Rowen and the party. Soldiers approached them and the citizens, upon spotting Rowen, backed away. The soldiers also spotted the Conductor and saluted the man.
"Commander Ilbert! Did this merchant cause you any trouble?" The guard said, "Shall we detain the man?"
"Good heavens, no!" Rowen exclaimed and then turned towards the merchant, "Go on now. I'll settle things here."
The merchant thanked Rowen a thousand times as he picked up his goods and made himself scarce. Throughout the whole thing, the soldiers did not do anything, simply watching the merchant. After that, they simply stared blankly at Rowen, as if awaiting further orders.
"Rowen, try and play along with them." Ludger whispered, "Remember, this is a fractured dimension. Whatever is going on here, these soldiers seem to… respect you. We should find out what they know."
Rowen agreed and spoke to the guard, "Tell me soldier, what do you know of our current situation."
The guard immediately saluted, "Y-yes Commander Ilbert! Our army is already preparing its final assault on Fennmont. This is all thanks to you of course, Commander Ilbert. If not for your strategies, this would have been impossible!"
"Final assault on Fennmont, is it?" Rowen then turned to the other soldier and said, "Tell me my good man, what caused the war between Sharilton and Rashugal?"
The soldier seemed confused, "Sir?"
"Do I need to repeat myself?"
The soldier quickly stood at attention, "N-no sir! Th-the war was a result of Lord Cline's death, the brother of Lady Driselle! In retaliation to his death, Lady Driselle ordered to attack Fennmont, with you at her side!"
Rowen smiled and then waved them off, "Dismissed!"
The two guards saluted and returned to their post. Rowen had extracted what he needed to know, although the news troubled him. The answer was clear now. "I believe… we have narrowed down our targets."
"You know what the major difference is in this dimension?" Ludger questioned.
Rowen nodded, "Yes. This happened a year ago, not long after I met Jude. The death of Lord Cline… was an unfortunate incident. However it seems that Lady Driselle in this dimension… did not take the news well compared to the prime dimension. Whatever happened, the 'me' of this dimension must be supporting her."
"I wonder… what happened to the 'me' of this dimension…" Elize whispered. Teepo also looked worried, "And Jude and Milla as well… they were all with us at the time."
"In any case, let us go." Rowen said, "I would prefer to not linger in this dimension for too long. Seeing Sharilton in this state leaves a foul taste."
Ludger had to agree. Rowen led the way since he was the most familiar with the original events in the prime dimension, and thus knew of who or what the divergence catalyst was. The old Conductor steeled his heart for what was to come. If he was not mentally prepared, he would simply hold the others back. No, he needed to be strong.
His eyes landed on his destination: the manor of House Sharil.
CHAPTER END