AN: Hey guys, I bring to you all the new chapter for this story! I hope you guys can bear with me, but this chapter is one of my longest one yet. I hope the quality of it is still good enough for all of you.
Now to respond to you generous readers!

Mr. AE Hachi-Roku: Indeed there are! I found a few here and there and saved some of them, hehe. Just looking at them brings a smile to my face.
I originally thought of wanting to test a dimension where Cline was alive, but scraped the idea. I hope you'll like how this chapter turns out! And as for the Xillia cast, you'll find out here, hehe
Hmm... well for now, Ludger has to be the one to keep 'fracture' Milla alive. But who knows? hehe

U-Know Yunho: Well, you'll see who is the catalyst, hehe

Aldehar: Yes, the person who suggested idea told me it's closely-related to that skit, haha. If you enjoyed it, give your thanks to him ;) The only original thing I did in that skit was the dialogue. Ah, thanks for pointing out that mistake (it's been fixed).
Hohoho, this chapter I tried to create tons of feels... but whether I did a good job in my writing, I don't know :S I hope I did cause that's what I wanted; tons of feels. I hope you'll enjoy this chapter!
As for the ToS bit, I've never played that game. I plan to play that after i complete Legendia (which I'm playing at the moment, hehe)

Nameless Knight: Thanks! hehe, I'm glad I'm improving at least
Well... she isn't too crazy, but her character is definitely different here, huehue

Gravenimage: Thanks! I hope you'll enjoy this chapter as well, hehe
Err... I defeated Bisley the first time around levle 72? When I replayed and got the X2 experience, I was at lelel 85 I think? You just need to use the side-step a lot against Bisley. Easiest way to beat him

Riku Uzumaki: Hehe, well maybe that will be noticed as the story progresses. Honestly I don't know how long to take this story. I already have the final arc planned, but so far I'm enjoying too much writing the story now that 'Fractured' Milla is present, lol
But yeah, they looking like a family of three. It just makes me... UGH! I WANT THIS TO HAPPEN IN THE GAME!

GroundZeroFirework: Ohhh... well it's okay. I still appreciate it hearing you guy's thoughts, but as long as you enjoy this story, I'm glad to have brought it to you. I just normally want to know if my writing deteriorated, but glad you still like the story.
Ah yes... this dimension explores a diffrerent Driselle, and this chapter explains why Sharilton is in this state. Hope you'll like it :D

Radomaru: Glad you enjoyed this chapter! hehe... I know. I hope this chapter will invoke some feels, cause that's what I want! Lots and lots of emotions! I just hope my writing can deliver that.
Hahaha, glad you liked that skit. But that skit wasn't my idea, I just wrote the dialogue. The whole plot of that was a user I credited to :)
Hehe, glad you liekd that scene. I always imagine Ludger, 'fracture' Milla and Elle as one small happy family T_T ugghhhh
Oh yes, i read your story and enjoyed it. I'll be looking forward to your updates ;) cause I'll be following that

End Gamer: Haha, wow... That's a really huge compliment. But I doubt I can come up with a superb original story so easily. But thanks for your trust in me. I'll make sure this story continues to be good

Time Heals All: No problem! I can understand you have a busy life, hehe. Glad you liked the two chapters! The way they patch things up is sweet, so I'm glad you liked it.
Ah well I felt that Julius needed to still show that he's 'there' and not gone in this story. But with what he said, that probably marks where he won't appear until the final arc.
HAha, glad you liked that skit but the credit does not belong to me. I only came up with the dialogue. The plot was all given to the reader that I gave credits to, hehe.
Anyway glad you're enjoying this story and I hope I'll continue to impress all of you as the story progresses.

Well, that brings an end to the responses! I hope you all will enjoy this chapter!

CHAPTER 19: THE CORRECT PATH

The main entrance of Sharil Manor was well-guarded, making it almost impossible for Ludger and the party to sneak in quietly. Fortunately, Rowen's presence was all they needed. The old conductor had always been well-respected in Sharilton, but in this dimension, it seemed that he had much more influence. It was evident by how the soldiers all saluted Rowen when he passed them.

While the party made their way towards Sharil Manor, they took note of the clear evidence that Sharilton was at war. There were several posters on walls promoting the war campaign as well as recommending the people to enter the military. The large presence of soldiers in the city was another proof as well. Because of this, the people of Sharilton had looks of fear in their eyes. Whether it was fear of losing the war or because the soldiers abused their role on them, Rowen had no idea. However he knew he never wanted to see Sharilton in this state. It was painful for him.

"The people all look frightened…" Elize observed with sadness.

Rowen nodded sadly, "Such is the consequences of war. That is why we must always strive for peace because in the end, a war brings nothing but misery." Rowen then turned to Elize with a smile, hoping to brighten things up in a gloomy world, "But remember that this is a fractured dimension, Lady Elize. If anything, take it as an experience to see how a world is in a state of war."

"Y-yes…" Elize answered. Teepo was supportive as well and said, "Don't worry El, we'll make sure this never happens!"

Elize gave a nod with a smile of thanks. Ludger and Elle also smiled to help her through this. As for 'fractured' Milla, she remained nonchalant. In the end, they were still going to destroy a fractured dimension. Although she no longer berated them for their actions, it did not mean she liked it. After all, she was once from a different dimension as well.

When the party finally reached the main entrance of Sharil manor, the guards blocked their path.

Ludger whispered to Rowen, "You'll have to bluff our way in."

"Leave it to me." Rowen said and approached the guard. Upon recognizing Rowen, two of the guards saluted him. Rowen returned it and said, "Anything to report?"

The guard on the right replied, "No, Commander Ilbert."

Rowen then gestured at his Ludger and the party behind him, "Well, I've hired mercenaries to assist us in the final assault on Fennmont. Since they will be working for us, I will need to introduce them to Lady Driselle."

The two guards stared at one another, confused. This time, the guard on the left spoke, "Commander Ilbert, I thought... your policy was not to trust mercenaries."

While some would have been taken aback, Rowen remain composed, "Indeed that policy still holds firm. However the final assault on Fennmont will be impossible without extra help. Are you questioning my own tactics, soldier?"

"N-no Commander Ilbert!" Both of the guards said in unison, "Of course not! All of this is only possible because of you! Please forgive us!" The two guards then stepped aside.

Rowen gave a nod to the guards and then gestured for Ludger to move in, with Rowen leading the way. 'Fractured' Milla had to admit, the way Rowen played the guards with his character was done well. She thought the guard's mention of this dimension's Rowen of not trusting mercenaries would throw the old conductor off, but she was wrong. Rowen was truly a man who still had his cards, despite his age. 'Fractured' Milla's respect for the man grew from this.

The inside of the manor was different to the prime dimension. Rowen, Teepo and Elize could instantly tell. Instead of the glamorous decorations and furniture that they were used to, the manor in this dimension was devoid of any beauty. There were crates containing weapons around the manor, and just like the outside, a large presence of soldiers. On the walls, there were several maps of Rashugal with side-notes written in certain locations. It seemed to have been key battles that occurred during the war.

Rowen approached one of the guards, "Soldier, where is Lady Driselle at the moment?"

"Lady Driselle?" The guard thought for a moment, "She's at the… Grand hall, Commander Ilbert."

Rowen seemed stunned for a second, but he hid it well. He then said to the guard, "Thank you. I need to see the Lady for a moment."

The soldier wanted to say something else, but decided not to. Rowen gestured for the party to follow him as he led the way.

"What's wrong?" Ludger asked, "You looked surprised when the guard mentioned the grand hall."

Rowen smiled and fiddled with his beard while they walked, "Indeed. I've not been inside the Grand Hall since Lord Cline's death."

"I've never heard of a Grand Hall in the manor." Elize said, "What's inside the Grand Hall?"

"The Grand Hall holds portraits of all the Lords of Sharil, dating back to the first Lord Sharil." Rowen answered, "Even Lord Cline has a picture of his own. But with his death, Lady Driselle had taken up the title of Lord but refuses to have her picture put up. I fear it's because she wants to believe that… somewhere in her heart, her brother is still alive and well."

"Driselle…" Elize murmured. With Elize now sad, Teepo had to brighten things up, flying to Elize's face, "Don't worry El, after we're done with this job, we'll get something to cheer Driselle up! That's what friends are for!"

Elle added in as well, "W-we'll help too! Right? Milla? Ludger?" Ludger and 'fractured' Milla gave a nod.

"Thank you…" Elize thanked, glad for her friends support.

Rowen raised his right hand, grabbing the party's attention, "I'm glad Lady Elize has all of you as friends, but we have important matters before us." Rowen then pointed at the two white, wooden doors before them, "This is the door leading to the Grand Hall. Are you all prepared?"

Everyone nodded. Elize gave a brave front, but the old conductor could see Elize held second doubts. He did not blame her. He himself, wanted to turn around. But then, seeing Ludger's determination, he remembered that Ludger held a heavier burden than him. And yet, Ludger could still push on. So increasing his resolve, the old conductor opened the doors of the Grand Hall.

The Grand Hall was a vast hall of empty space. There were nothing inside but large portraits on the walls, each depicting the previous Lord Sharil. There were no windows or furniture at all. On the opposite of where the doors of the Grand Hall were, 'Driselle' was seen. Her back was facing the party while she stared at the large portrait of Lord Cline, her late brother.

Without turning to face them, 'Driselle' said, "Rowen… I believe I told you I am not to be disturbed at this time."

Instantly, Rowen knew this 'Driselle' was different. Her manner of speech was too formal, completely unlike the Driselle of the prime dimension. "I apologize, Lady Driselle." Rowen said, giving a courteous bow, "However I have… something that I believe requires your personal attention."

'Driselle' sighed and finally turned around. Rowen, Elize and Teepo saw the instant distinction with the Driselle they knew. This 'Driselle' had eyes that had seen countless death, however at the same time, held sadness in them. Also, there were bags under her eyes, probably due to the stress of war. Her hair was also not tied up, allowing her hair to flow freely behind her neck.

"What is it Rowen?" 'Driselle' said, approaching Rowen and the party with grace, "I hope it is not the fact that you are sporting a new attire. While it does suit you, it is hardly worth my time."

"She's so cold!" Teepo muttered, but 'Driselle' did not hear those words.

Rowen stood back up from his bow and shook his head, "Of course not, Lady Driselle. I thought you'd like to 'inspect' personally these mercenaries I have hired to assist us in Fennmont's invasion."

"Mercenaries?" Driselle eyed Ludger, 'fractured' Milla and then finally at Elize and Elle. "Rowen, I thought you didn't trust mercenaries. Well, it doesn't matter." Driselle's gaze now focused on Elize and Elle, "And children can now be mercenaries? I don't see how they will be of any use to us, Rowen."

Elize stepped up, "Driselle… don't you recognize me?"

'Driselle' however snapped back, "Watch how you address me girl! You're speaking to the Lord of Sharilton!" Elize cowered in fear and Teepo tried to console the girl. "I've no time to recognize every child of Sharilton."

"It's us!" Teepo cried, "Little El! Remember? And me, the adorable Teepo?"

'Driselle' stared at them for a while and then reaffirmed what she said, "I don't know you."

"Lady Driselle, do you really not recall of her?" Rowen pressed, "What about a young medical student? With the Lord- I mean, with a young woman with gold hair. You should have met them a year ago."

'Driselle' waved it all off, "If this you claim to require my 'personal attention', then I have clearly wasted my time."

It thus came to everyone's realization that the Driselle in this dimension never met Elize or Jude. And if so, there were many possibilities. It could be that Jude and Milla never brought Elize along. Or it could be Jude and Milla took a different route to Fennmont. Either way, the thought that Elize never met Driselle… it was just too sad.

Rowen decided they had to act now. He presented Ludger and said, "Lady Driselle, allow me to introduce to you the leader of this group. He will tell you everything you need to know." Ludger played along and walked towards 'Driselle'. As he passed by Rowen, the old conductor whispered, "Ludger, make it quick. If she is the divergence catalyst, end it."

Ludger nodded, although he wondered if Elize was fine with it. Even if this was a fractured dimension, 'Driselle' was still Driselle. But it was best if they did end it quickly.

Driselle sized Ludger up and crossed her left hand on her chest while the other on her chin, "What do you have to say, mercenary?"

However Ludger paid no attention to her words. Once he was just in front of Driselle, it reacted. It was faint, but noticeable. A purplish gas-like substance appeared around Driselle's chest, signifying that Driselle was the divergence catalyst.

"It's just as I feared…" Rowen said with regret.

"Driselle…" Elize muttered, covering her mouth.

Ludger took out his pocket watch and transformed into his level three Chromatus form, his lance appearing on his right hand. 'Driselle' stepped away in shock, "W-what are you… what do you think you're doing?!"

"I'm sorry…" Ludger said and raised his lance. It would all be over in a second.

But before Ludger could strike her, several figures burst into the Grand Hall. The sudden intrusion caught Ludger and the party by surprise. This small opportunity allowed 'Driselle' to run to the end of the Grand Hall, exactly at the portrait of the late Lord Cline.

Sharilton soldiers immediately stormed in and surrounded the party. A few more went further ahead and formed a defensive line between Ludger and Lady 'Driselle'. With this, they have secured their Lord's safety for now. Then the ring leader emerged from the entrance of the Grand Hall, draped in a black tailcoat jacket and a familiar long, white hair tied in a neatly trimmed ponytail. It was 'Rowen Ilbert' of this dimension.

'Rowen' saw Lady 'Driselle' was safe and sighed in relief, "Lady Driselle, thank goodness you're safe. When I heard someone that looked like me went to see you in the Grand Hall, I knew your life was in danger." 'Rowen' then drew his saber, "You will all pay for attempting to take my Lady's life!"

Rowen feared his 'other' version would make his appearance. The guards surrounding Rowen and the party all gasped in astonishment, some almost dropping their weapons in shock. Lady 'Driselle' was also speechless at such a bizarre sight. Two Rowens! She was seeing two Rowens!

"I assumed the soldiers were hallucinating when they said 'I' was the one who asked for Lady Driselle's whereabouts, when I was clearly patrolling the manor." 'Rowen' said as he eyed Rowen, "Now… I see that they were not wrong. You look exactly like me. Who are you?"

Rowen smiled and drew out his own saber, mimicking his 'other' self's stance. Now, the only thing to tell them apart was their outfit. "I am Rowen Ilbert. A pleasure to meet you."

'Rowen' chuckled in amusement, "As much as I wish to call your bluff, I somehow… believe that. Your stance, your voice, the way you carry yourself. It is almost as if I am staring at a mirror."

"We look alike, but that is where all similarities end." Rowen stated, "To think you have failed Lord Cline as well as Lady Driselle. I am disappointed."

'Rowen' narrowed his eyes, getting serious, "I do not know who you are, but I will not have you besmirch Lord Cline's name!" 'Rowen' raised his saber and gave the command, "Eliminate them! Protect Lady Driselle at all cost!"

"Sir, yes sir!" All of the guards said in unison.

'Fractured' Milla drew her sword and made sure Elle was close by, "Elle! Stick close to me!" Elle obeyed.

The soldiers all swarmed in on the group. 'Fractured' Milla swordsmanship however was spectacular. She moved with grace, avoiding the soldier's attacks as if she danced through them. Two soldiers attacked simultaneously, thrusting their spears forward. 'Fractured' Milla simply parried one of the spears to the side, smacking the other spear as a result. This created an opening to the two soldiers and she delivered the killing blow, giving a clean slice across their necks. However, there were still more soldiers storming in but Elize quickly took care of them.

"Teepo Squash!"

Teepo grew in size, jumped and squashed a number of soldiers. Although they were not killed, they were incapacitated. When the soldiers realized the threat Elize held, they started ganging up on her but Teepo quickly released a magnificent roar, stunning all of them. "Teepo Roar!" Needless to say, Elize's dark artes were clearing up a large number of soldiers, but reinforcements kept coming in.

As for Ludger, he was still in his Chromatus form and had an easy time obliterating the soldiers. Unfortunately, most of the reinforcements decided to focus on Ludger, since he held the highest threat on Driselle's life. In one attack, he swung his lance in such a manner that it resulted in mini-shockwaves, blasting a group of soldiers away and knocking them out instantly. This caused some of the soldiers to hesitate on targeting Ludger, but their sense of duty allowed them to fight on.

Although Ludger was focused on his own battle, he could see Rowen and the party fighting from the corner of his eye. Technically, he could end things now. He just had to kill 'Driselle', the divergence catalsy. But he felt Rowen and Elize needed some form of 'closure'. Rowen's words to his 'other' self seemed to hold something personal to the conductor.

At the moment, the two Rowens faced off. But it was like a mirror match. When one used a certain arte, the other did the same. It was like both decided on the same tactic at the same time. It was basically watching a person battling with a mirror. Even when they engaged in melee combat, both attacked in the same pattern, both tried to outsmart the other, only to find his counterpart react with the same move.

Rowen decided to try and ensnare his fractured self with an arte, tossing three knives into the air. Sensing this, 'Rowen' also did the same, throwing three knives into the air. The result, their knives collided with one another, returning back to their owner. Retrieving their knives, both Rowens engaged in melee combat. Rowen thrust his saber forward, but the other 'Rowen' side-stepped the attack and released a knife. As the knife soared through the air, Rowen blocked it with his sword and quickly moved into an arte.

"Freeze Lancer!"

"Freeze Lancer!"

Both artes cancelled out, and they returned back to square one. At this point, both of them were panting from exhaustion. The rest of the party continued fighting on, and Rowen knew the only way to defeat all of them, they had to eliminate their leader. The one in command; which was his 'other' self.

'But how?' Rowen thought, 'We think exactly alike. We come up with the same tactics. Unless…' Rowen took a glance at Elize, whom was still clearing out a large number of soldiers with her artes. 'Ludger and 'Milla' are busy in their own battles. However… with Elize's artes, it just might work.'

Rowen was taken out of his thoughts when 'Rowen' spoke, "I find it hard to imagine you as an imposter. You… you not only share the physical appearance, but even the same form of battle. You're no mere spy."

Rowen chuckled at his fractured version's words, "I do not blame you for being skeptical, but believe me when I say I know how you think. We are one and the same, and yet, completely different."

'Rowen' felt his beard, letting Rowen's words sink in, "It is almost difficult to argue with your words, after experiencing it for myself. We think alike, and it is almost as if I am interacting with my own self-image."

"Indeed." Rowen agreed, "However… the one difference we have apparently lies on how we see our loyalty to Lord Cline and Lady Driselle."

Hearing those words, 'Rowen' was quickly angered, "How dare you claim to serve Lord Driselle or the late Lord Cline! Your actions do nothing but besmirch their name."

Rowen shook his head in disappointment, "It is a pity. Have you been so lost in this dimension, that you can no longer see what your fault is?"

"You speak nonsense!" 'Rowen' exclaimed, throwing a 'Fireball' arte at Rowen.

Rowen dodged the fireball, using an arte and creating a green platform for mobility. Controlling the platform, he flew and jumped off the platform once he was at Elize's side. "Elize, I may need your assistance." Rowen said.

"R-Rowen?" Elize was so preoccupied in her fight, she had not noticed his presence, "What can I do to help?"

"I cannot beat my 'other' self." Rowen explained quickly, "Our attacks keep cancelling each other out. Once I resume my fight with him again, I need you to strike him down when you seen an opening."

And before Elize could give an answer, 'Rowen' attacked, forcing Rowen to separate from Elize and commence their plan. However the old conductor forgot to consider Elize's feelings about such tactics. For the young, kind-hearted girl, attacking someone who bore the exact resemblance of one of her friends was too much. Even if she knew 'Rowen' was a fake, a being that should not exist, he was real to her. She did not know if she had it in her to go forth with Rowen's strategy.

As the two Rowens fought, Rowen knew in order for his plan to work, he needed to bait his 'other' self. To do that, he needed to be vulnerable. Rowen moved in and attacked, his saber clashing against 'Rowen's own saber. The two traded blows, the sound of metal meeting metal heard in the Grand Hall. In one of their exchanges, Rowen purposely 'missed' an attack, allowing 'Rowen' to side-step to the left and smacked the hilt of his sword on Rowen's back, knocking the old conductor to the ground. Quickly, 'Rowen' released three of his knives into the air, where the knives then landed in a triangle-like shape. The knives glowed brightly as 'Rowen' activated his most common arte, snaring Rowen.

"I have you now!" 'Rowen' declared, running towards the exposed Rowen.

Once Rowen saw that his 'other' self was close enough and knew that he could not defend from another attack, Rowen turned to Elize. However to his shock, Elize was not even close to using an arte.

Elize wanted to go through with Rowen's plan. She really wanted to. But for some reason, she could not do it. Even though 'Rowen' was an enemy, she just could not muster the will to strike him down. Rowen now could see his mistake. Elize was in tears at this point, at a loss of what to do. He should not have involved the girl to such a plan. She could never strike someone that looked like a friend. So as the saber approached Rowen's chest, he thought this was where he would perish. There were still so many things the old conductor wished he could have done. He regretted not accomplishing them. But his biggest regret would be that his death would bring Elize guilt. She would feel guilty for failing him, for causing his death. He did not want her to think that, but that would be her first thought.

"No you don't!" 'Fractured' Milla cried out, coming from 'Rowen's side and plunging her sword deep into his ribs.

"Wha… what?" 'Rowen' gasped in shock, coughing out blood. Looking around, only now 'Rowen' realized that all of the soldiers were defeated. The Grand Hall was filled with either wounded or dead soldiers. "How… could only four mercenaries… defeat all of Lady Driselle's personal guards?"

Ludger was back to his human form, deactivating his Chromatus form after defeating all of the guards. While he could have ended things now, he felt he should wait until Rowen and Elize were ready. After all, this dimension was directly related to them.

As for Elle, she returned to Ludger's side, holding his hand like a child would with a father.

'Fractured' Milla finally pulled out her sword, her blade drenched with blood. 'Rowen' grunted in pain and fell down on his behind, feeling the wound on his side. It was a fatal wound, and with his age, his chances of surviving such a wound were slim. More blood escaped from his lips and he was sweating profusely, panting heavily from exhaustion.

"I'm so sorry!" Elize said, running to Rowen and hugging him. She was still sobbing as she continued apologizing.

Rowen hugged the little girl back, giving a couple of pats on her back, "No Elize, it was my fault. I failed to consider your feelings. If I planned it properly, I would not have wanted to involve you with such a traumatizing decision. Forgive me Elize."

Elize shook her head, finally releasing the hug but she was still at a loss of words. So instead, Teepo spoke in a cheerful tone, "We're just glad everyone's safe!"

Elize helped Rowen back to his feet and the old conductor stared down at his 'other' self. 'Rowen' glared back, the two not saying anything. After a while, 'Rowen' finally sighed, "I still… have no idea who you are but… I at least know you really are me, am I not wrong?"

Rowen nodded, "Indeed your assumption is correct. I am Rowen, just like how you are Rowen as well. But I cannot explain any more than that."

However instead of being more confused, 'Rowen' seemed to accept that, "There are… many things in this world… that we do not know… perhaps this are one of them." 'Rowen' stopped and took a deep breath, "However… before my life comes to an end… I hope you can… answer one last question."

Rowen gave a courteous bow to his mirror image, "If the question is within my knowledge, I shall."

Silence. 'Rowen' did not say anything for quite a while and the silence was deafening. Finally after a long time, he finally asked, "What did you mean… when you said… I failed Lord Cline… and Lady Driselle?" Rowen's expression did not falter and 'Rowen' resumed speaking, "Ever since… Lord Cline's death, I could never stop blaming myself. I was with him. I should… have protected him! His assassination… was all because Lord Cline… refused to cooperate with… King Nachtigal." 'Rowen' shook his head in misery, now crying from recalling such painful memories, "The guilt… was unbearable. Even worse was when I had to deliver… the news to Lady Driselle…"

"Driselle…" Elize whispered and looked at where 'Driselle' was. The blonde woman was still where she was, staring back at her. Although she could use this opportunity to escape, it was as if she had resigned to her fate.

"That was… when I swore to Lady Driselle." 'Rowen' continued with his tale, "I swore to avenge Lord Cline's death. And Lady Driselle, still mourning over the loss of her brother, agreed to it. One year… it took us one year for us to finally… crush Nachtigal at Fennmont… but it seems… we will not achieve that aim." 'Rowen' coughed out more blood, feeling his life almost coming to an end. So he asked his final question to Rowen, "Tell me then… how did I… fail those I swore to serve?"

Ludger and 'fractured' Milla's gaze dropped on Rowen. The two wondered how Rowen would answer this. What did he mean when 'Rowen' failed 'Driselle' and Lord Cline? As for Elize and Elle, the two waited patiently.

Rowen turned around and clasped his hands on his back and said, "I too understand your pain. The death of Lord Cline… was a painful event. Even now, I wish I had died in his place. But… there is no point in crying over spilt milk." Rowen sighed and turned back, facing his mirror image, "When I left the life of the military, Lord Cline took me in. I was grateful of his generosity. By being his butler, I vowed to make sure all of Lord Cline's dreams… ambitions… desire… beliefs… I wanted to make all of them come true. After he passed away… I almost lost my way… but I found support from my friends." Rowen smiled at the party members. "Their support reminded me of what Lord Cline always strived for. Happiness… peace… this is where you failed Lord Cline."

'Rowen' was confused, "What… do you mean?"

"You sought to avenge Lord Cline's death." Rowen pointed out, "However… is that something Lord Cline would have wanted? This war… do you think the people want this? No! This is not the Sharilton that Lord Cline ruled over. He would not have wanted you to avenge his death! A butler does not serve his master just physically. As a butler, he must serve his master by continuing on his master's belief… his master's ambition. Tell me, do you think the Sharilton of the present; is this what Lord Cline would have wanted?"

'Rowen' did not answer because deep down, he knew Rowen was right. How could he have not seen this? Lord Cline would have been ashamed at the state of Sharilton right now.

Rowen however was not done, "And even Lady Driselle, you failed her. The moment Lady Driselle stopped caring for the people and only yearned to avenge her late brother, you should have stopped her. Instead, you fueled her ambitions. Lady Driselle is a person with a gentle heart. She cares for the people as much as her brother. Now… she's nothing but a shadow of her former self."

"And… what would you have done?" 'Rowen' questioned.

Rowen shut his eyes, feeling his answer was heavy, "For the sake of maintaining Lady Driselle's true self… I would end her life. I already said that a butler's duty is to see to it that his master's ambition and belief holds true. Lady Driselle's true self is… not the one we see right now. Lord Cline and Lady Driselle… both care deeply for the people and for Sharilton. If killing either of them will restore what they wanted before they strayed from their path… I believe… that I have served them until the end."

With the answer finally given, 'Rowen' finally smiled. It was true. He had failed Lord Cline and Lady Driselle in every way. Once more, he regretted his actions but as an old man, he had done everything his heart told him to. He did what he believed was right; even if they were actually wrong.

With his final breath, 'Rowen' said to his other self, "Please… take care… of Lady Driselle…" With that, the old conductor of this dimension collapsed to his side, his life finally coming to an end.

Although Rowen knew his fractured self meant this version of 'Driselle', Rowen took his words to heart. He went to his fractured self and arranged 'Rowen' to a proper posture. At least this way, it would sem like he passed on with dignity, "I swear… that I will always protect Lady Driselle." He might have to end the 'Driselle' of this dimension, but until his dying breath, he would protect the Driselle of the prime dimension.

With that, Rowen finally earned some form of closure with this dimension. Now all that remained was the divergence catalyst; Driselle. The Lord Sharil of this dimension did not move a muscle, staying where she was the entire time. It was finally time to end all things. Ludger took out his pocket watch once more, about to transform into his Chromatus form when Elize stopped him.

"Wait!" Elize said, tugging Ludger's sleeve, "I… I want to talk to her first… please?"

Elle supported the idea, tugging the other sleeve, "Yeah. Let Elize talk to her first, alright?"

Ludger sighed and finally nodded. "Thank you!" Elize said and quickly made her way to 'Driselle'.

Elize looked at 'Driselle' and found herself comparing her to the Driselle she knew. They almost looked the same except that this 'Driselle' definitely looked more tired. It was as if she was glad that this would end it all.

"What?" 'Driselle' said softly to Elize, "Do you want to mock me before you kill me? Because I don't remember you?"

Elize shook her head, "No… maybe you don't remember me because… we never met. But that's not why I'm here. I…" Elize stopped and steeled herself, "I… want to know why you became like this. You've always… been known to be as kind as your brother. Why… why did you change? This isn't you."

'Driselle' was slightly taken aback by the little girl's question. It was like a slap to the face, an eye opener. She had been so consumed over her beloved brother's death that she had not noticed her own change. Her thoughts were filled with hatred and vengeance. And now, she saw what her actions had done. The dead soldiers in the Grand Hall, even 'Rowen' was gone.

'Driselle' stared down at the ground, recalling what led her on this path. "You don't know… how it feels…"

Elize tilted her head in confusion, "W-what do you mean?"

"I lost everything when my brother died…" 'Driselle' said, "My parents are gone, so it has always been just me and my brother. We cared for each other. We only had each other. When Nachtigal sent that assassin to take my brother's life, he robbed me of the only thing I have. The one person that was with me my whole life… was suddenly gone. Do you know how that feels? I was… all alone…"

'Driselle' dropped to her knees and sobbed. Elize never knew Driselle could feel this way. She knew she and her brother was close, but could not believe that if Driselle did not meet Jude and the others, this would be the result. She really needed them.

Elize approached 'Driselle', getting down on her knees as well, "Driselle… I can't say I understand how you feel. I… never knew my parents. They died when I was young, so I never had someone as close as that." 'Driselle' looked at Elize, her attention now on Elize's words, "I was alone as well for a long time. But then… I met Jude… along with everyone else. They're all my precious friends that supported me. They're the closest thing I have to a family… they helped me when I had no one else. That's why I'd do anything to protect them!" And much to 'Driselle's shock, Elize hugged the young woman, "And I know that if we met in… this 'world', I know I would have protected you from yourself. All you needed… was someone to hold your hand in your darkest hour… and I'd have gladly done so."

"And that's because that's what friends are for!" Teepo cried happily, flying around the two.

And for the first time in one year, 'Driselle' bawled openly. She had been alone for too long. No one comforted her over the loss of her brother. Rowen was there, but he was too guilty over the loss of his master. There were people who offered their sympathies, but they were empty sympathies. No one understood her pain, her loss. But this little girl, the person who was her 'enemy', seemed to understand everything. 'Driselle' did not know why, but she felt a connection with this girl. And that was why, before they would claim her life, she could finally release all her sadness to something like a friend.

When Elize finally released the hug, 'Driselle' was much more composed. "Thank you… Elize, was it?" 'Driselle' stood up and had a genuine smile on her face, "If only… we met earlier. Then maybe… this wouldn't have happened." And then 'Driselle' took out a small item and handed it to Elize, "Take this… it's… all that I have of my brother but… I want you to have it."

Elize looked at the item and accepted it. The two shared one last smile before Elize made her way back to the party. She had said what she wanted. That was all.

Ludger turned to Elize, "Are you ready?"

Elize nodded, "Thank you Ludger…"

Ludger fixed his focus to his target. 'Driselle' knew what was coming and did not resist. It was as if it all occurred in slow motion, Ludger running towards 'Driselle' with the lance at his side. Once he was in front of 'Driselle', Ludger pierced 'Driselle' through the chest. Nothing was heard, only the sound of a ticking clock emitting from the catalyst on the tip of the lance. On 'Driselle's feet, a pool of blood decorated the white, marble floor. She was gone.

"I'm sorry…" Ludger whispered, although 'Driselle' could not hear it at that point.

And just as the world shattered like glass fragments, Elize held Elle's hand, allowing her to bring the item she got from 'Driselle' to the prime dimension.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

"We have confirmed that you have destroyed the fractured dimension. We are transferring an amount of 30,000 gald into your account for accomplishing your mission." Vera said through Ludger's GHS. And just like that, the call ended.

Ludger placed his GHS back into his pocket and sighed. They had finally returned back to the prime dimension, back at Elympios's seahaven, where they were when they left.

"Are they okay?" 'Fractured' Milla whispered to Ludger.

Ludger knew who she meant. Rowen and Elize were staring at the open sea, lost in thought. No one could blame them since the fractured dimension were quite personal to the two of them. It helped Rowen to remind himself of how he continued to fulfill Lord Cline and Lady Driselle's vision of Sharilton; no, their vision of a peaceful world. He would help achieve that dream.

"Well… should we continue with your shopping?" Rowen reminded, hoping to change the topic.

Elle widened her eyes as she remembered that, "Oh right! You wanted to buy something for Driselle right? What're you gonna get her?"

Elize smiled, "I already know what I'm going to get for Driselle."

"That's right!" Teepo added in, "And you're all going to help!"

Everyone looked confused and surprised, but Elize continued staring at the open sea. Driselle had given her so much. Now, she wanted to repay the favor.

CHAPTER END