based on the story from Midlydrunk335 (with up-to-date lore-wise, story-wise, and necessary changes). I do not own Destiny or Gate's media as a whole.
a/n: people's perspectives are a crucial point in a conflict. As Lord Saladin said in Season of the Haunted "mercy to an enemy cannot come at the cost of mercy for their victim."
Furthermore, considering my absence for several months, I would prefer to begin now rather than writing my thoughts and uploading the chapter later. To those who have been eagerly waiting, I offer my sincere apologies.
*The Last City, at the same time as the last chapter, Earth, Sol system*
OC's POV
Today is Friday, or at least I believe so. The outworlders from the other side of the Gate have their own designated names for the days of the week. I must admit, their system seems more efficient than relying on the phases of the Moon to keep track of time. It has been approximately a month since I was taken captive by these outworlders and transported to their peculiar realm.
Upon our initial arrival as prisoners of war, I found myself utterly overwhelmed by the grandeur of their capital city. Towering buildings that seemed to scrape the heavens themselves, servants made of metal assisting people instead of demi-humans, and individuals adorned with metallic visages (the Exos), alongside those who possessed features reminiscent of the ocean (the Awokens). Many of us had anticipated being subjected to torture or imprisonment, yet the reality turned out to be quite the opposite.
Due to our actions, the Vanguard, the esteemed leaders of the Last City, compelled us to undertake public services as a means of rectifying the damage we inadvertently caused upon our initial arrival through the Gate.
We were assigned various public service tasks, focused primarily on repairing the repercussions of our initial invasion. We labored tirelessly, working to mend the broken structures, restore the infrastructure, and alleviate the burdens that our unintended actions had placed upon the city.
As the day drew to a close, the Vanguard, in their generosity, rewarded us with their currency known as Glimmers. This currency provided us with the means to acquire items and possessions that captivated our interest, allowing us to partake in the vibrant marketplace of the Last City.
In addition to the material rewards, the Vanguard went a step further in their efforts to assimilate us into their society. They graciously opened classes, providing opportunities for us to delve into the depths of their culture, history, and way of life. These classes served as windows through which we could gain insights into their traditions, values, and the intricate tapestry of their existence.
By participating in the enlightening classes provided by the Vanguard, we delved deeper into the essence of the deity revered by the people—the Traveler. This colossal white orb, suspended above the city, was an awe-inspiring presence that bestowed upon their world a wealth of knowledge and advanced technology, significantly enhancing the quality of life for its inhabitants.
The teachings we received illuminated the significance of the Traveler and its profound impact on the Last City and its denizens. We learned that the Traveler was not merely an object of worship, but a symbol of hope, enlightenment, and progress. It was regarded as a beacon of guidance, a celestial entity that shared its boundless wisdom and extraordinary gifts with the people.
But the Traveler's gifts were not just the technological marvels that inspired admiration but also the profound impact on society as a whole. The Traveler's influence fostered a sense of unity, as people harnessed its knowledge to build a harmonious and prosperous community. The divine entity became a unifying force, guiding their aspirations and driving them toward a future filled with promise.
As our understanding of the Traveler deepens, our desire to dwell within this magnificent world has grown stronger. It is a fortress that has stood resolute for centuries, always placing humanity at the forefront of its concerns.
At this very moment, as prisoners of war, most of us started to contemplate our beliefs regarding the gods revered back in our world. After centuries of stagnation and no signs of progress, we witnessed the remarkably superior quality of life enjoyed by the inhabitants of the Last City. Some began to entertain thoughts of permanently residing within this sanctuary, while others sought to unravel the secrets that made the Last City so prosperous, intending to return to their homeland and share the knowledge they ha-
"Hey, can you stop reading your diary again and again? It's getting boring now." I turned to see one of the men in grey call me. "I'm coming, give me a second," I said as I wrapped the diary into a letter and gave it to the man. He takes it gently and puts it into his floating carriage. "How's the city to you so far, Joseph?" The men in grey asked.
"Unlike many, I had anticipated torture and mistreatment. Surprisingly, my experience has been quite the opposite." I remarked.
"Well, I'm pleased that you're finding some comfort here. Most don't share that sentiment about being here." Joseph responded, his tone sincere. He then held up my journal, a small smile forming on his lips. "Rest assured, I'll ensure that this journal reaches your family on the other side."
With a farewell wave to the man clad in grey, I shifted my focus back to the area designated for our collective rebuilding efforts. The site used to be a school—a place for the children who had tragically lost their parents in the devastating Red War. This conflict had erupted almost six years ago, pitting the city against the Cabals. The scars of that conflict were profound, leaving behind a trail of sorrow and destruction.
According to one of the classes I attended, the Red War had exacted a heavy toll. Numerous lives had been lost, not only among the people but also among the Guardians, those chosen by the Traveler. The casualties suffered by both sides had been monumental, leaving a painful imprint on the collective memory of all who had endured those trying times.
A conflict significantly more lethal than any of us could have anticipated. After a hard day at work, some individuals spent their glimmers on drinks and delicacies, while others opted for clothing and books. In my case, I chose to acquire a "datapad" and a petite metallic replica of their distinctive vehicle, the jumpship.
I carefully examined the datapad, its sleek design fitting comfortably in my hands. The device held centuries' worth of information and knowledge within its compact form, a testament to the advancements of this society. With a swipe of my finger, the screen illuminated, revealing a myriad of functions and possibilities.
Beside it, the small metallic jumpship statue gleamed in the dim light. Its intricate details captured the essence of their advanced technology and adventurous spirit. The jumpships are one of the city's symbols of exploration and resilience, ferrying their warriors, the Guardians to the stars.
As I held these items, I couldn't help but feel a connection to this world and its inhabitants. Each glimmer spent was a glimpse into their way of life, a thread that wove me further into their society. It was a simple transaction, but it carried a weight of understanding and shared experiences. The day's efforts had not only earned me glimmers but also granted me insight into their history, hopes, and aspirations.
*the prince's chamber, Sadera, Point Oasis*
third POV
The weight of his failure torments his reputation, and he can feel the eyes of disgust looking at him. Zorzal, the king's firstborn and heir to the throne, had always been treated with respect from the moment he was born until he reached a certain age. However, it was precisely this privileged treatment that gradually shaped his arrogance, ignorance, and tyrannical behavior.
To him, conquering the world beyond the Gate is a monumental achievement—one that he believes will significantly increase his chances of becoming king sooner. However, all his ambitious plans backfired when he encountered the inhabitants from the world beyond the ancient structure.
Thousands of his finest warriors were slain by tens of individuals possessing foreign powers and magic he had never witnessed before.
Despite his initial arrogance, confidence, and aspirations, the encounter with these formidable adversaries left Zorzal in a state of shock and disbelief. How could a small group of people possess such extraordinary abilities that could overwhelm his highly trained forces?
Before his spies even arrived at the Lagomorph/ Warrior Bunny's village, it was already gone, leaving him utterly disheartened. Adding to his despair, the encounter with the outworlders left him partially deaf. As if fate had turned against him, he faced scathing criticism from his father and fellow congressmen, pushing him to a new and profound low.
Since that time, the prince's activities consisted primarily of training, hunting, and deriving enjoyment from the women.
PLAP
PLAP
PLAP
The sound of a woman's moans echoed through the prince's chamber, yet he remained unsatisfied. He lay there, a restless figure on his opulent bed, the echoes of pleasure filling the room like a haunting melody. Yet, in his eyes, there was a distant yearning that the pleasures of the flesh could not quell.
For weeks, he had attempted various methods to restore his hearing, but thus far, none had proven successful. The prince seethed with anger at the outworlders who had brought this affliction upon him. They had not only temporarily stripped him of his hearing but had also dragged him to a new low, a place of vulnerability and humiliation he had never known.
He had received news and tales about the fort in Alnus from his father's high-ranking officers. These stories recounted the arrival of warriors from the other side of the Gate, tales of a world beyond their own with its own set of enigmatic champions. These narratives painted vivid pictures of a world unlike any they had ever known.
PLAP
PLAP
PLAP
As the woman's efforts to please him waned, the prince disengaged and seated himself at the edge of the bed. The more he contemplated those outworlders, the more his anger simmered. Everything he had painstakingly built had crumbled within a mere week. Their actions had tarnished his once-pristine reputation.
"I'm finished with this one. BRING ME ANOTHER ONE!" Zorzal commanded as the guards entered his chamber. They quickly attended to the woman, dressing her up before taking her back to her 'living quarters.' Within a few minutes, another woman was brought into the room for the prince.
*Italica*
As Pina continued her preparations for her trip to Alnus, the words of the waitress from the bar days ago echoed in her mind.
Champions of the Light
God slayers
Defenders of Sol system
The Traveler's chosen ones
Humanity's last line of defense
With every title, her curiosity deepened regarding these "Guardians" who resided on the other side of the Gate. These titles lingered in her thoughts, like riddles waiting to be unraveled. They hinted at a destiny far greater than she or this world had ever imagined. Simultaneously, she grappled with growing uncertainty about the forthcoming dialogue once she reached Alnus. Would the outworlders be amenable to releasing the prisoners? Or would they resort to an attack on the capital? The uncertainty loomed, leaving her to ponder whether they would choose a path of reconciliation or one that could potentially lead to destruction.
Upon the initial opening of the Gate in Alnus, she, alongside other members of the congress, had vehemently opposed the King, her father, and his directive to initiate an invasion of the other side. In the span of a week, Sadera had suffered staggering losses. These casualties surpassed the combined losses of the previous century, casting a grim shadow over the kingdom's once-steadfast resolve.
Metal wyverns, men and women clad in green, impenetrable barriers, Magi, Knights, and Hunters - these were but a few of the enigmas that confounded the kingdom. Even the most skilled Magi, including those esteemed from Rondel, struggled to comprehend the workings of their magic.
Before her departure for Italica, the princess made a visit to Duran, a member of the Allied Army who had suffered grievous injuries. He had lost an arm and a leg, quite literally, during the invasion. Yet, what troubled him even more was the unease that overcame him whenever the topic of the outworlders in Alnus was broached.
*flashback, ?*
"We are but mere barbarians in the face of the outworlders, Princess," the elderly king of Elde solemnly conveyed to Pina. His voice carried the weight of experience and sorrow. "In a mere half-hour, three-quarters of our army was decimated. Do you not comprehend the depth of their anger towards your father and the entire Sadera kingdom?"
"I understand, but I must-" Princess Pina began, but she was swiftly interrupted."I don't believe you grasp the gravity of the situation, Your Highness." King Duran interjected firmly. "These outworlders are unlike the Apostles. They... They..." His voice faltered as he recalled the horrors he had witnessed.
*back to present*
Naturally, she had also been informed about villagers who had relocated to Alnus, finding shelter under the protection of the outworlders. They had proven adept at identifying imperial spies, and, as if by magic, the spies vanished without a trace.
The empire's fortresses surrounding the capital and Alnus have also fallen to the Outworlders consistently over the past four weeks. If this trend continues, Sadera will soon lose its influence in the region.
She couldn't allow that to occur, she mustn't. If there was any chance of saving the empire from crumbling through dialogue with the outworlders, she was willing to seize it, even if it meant risking her life.
KNOCK
KNOCK
"Your Highness, may I request permission to enter?" inquired one of Pina's servants with utmost politeness. "Certainly, please come in," the princess graciously granted. With her command, the individual entered the room, revealing themselves as one of those who had accompanied her to the bar just days before.
"What's the matter, Hamilton?" inquired the individual. "It's about the empire's fortresses, princess." Hamilton responded. "Almost every fortress within Alnus lies in ruins."
"Every last one of them?" "Indeed, every single one, Princess. The Rose Knights were the first to reach the ruins. But the strange part is that none of the loot was touched. The prison cells are vacant, not a single captive to be found."
Following Hamilton's report, Pina began to introspect more deeply about the Outworlders. She understood the reason behind their decision not to seize the loot. The empire was still searching for a solution to this situation, and if it persisted, the empire would soon lose its influence in the region.
She did inform her father about the idea of releasing the captives currently held by the empire. However, her father and the congress rejected the proposal, stating that it was not open for discussion.
'Zorzal is half-deaf, Diablo is scheming, and Father isn't heeding my counsel.' Pina reflected silently before releasing a lengthy sigh. She then responded to Hamilton, "I see, thank you for informing me."
Hamilton inquired cautiously, "You don't mind me asking, Princess, but how do you plan to approach them? As far as I know, we've provoked a force we're yet to comprehend. We've taken their people's lives, and in return, they've decimated more of our warriors than we've lost in the last 100 years." The young woman's concern was evident in her question.
"To be honest with you," Pina confessed with a furrowed brow, "I don't know. I'm diligently preparing for the upcoming dialogue with them, yet I find myself unsure of what to say or offer. They certainly want their people back, but what comes after that?" She sighed, looking at herself in the mirror as she contemplated the challenging situation.
*FOB's battleground, Alnus*
Hawthorne vowed that she had witnessed the most extraordinary events in the past few years, from battling the city's adversaries to forming alliances under a single flag. It was these very experiences that occasionally drove her to seek solace in a drink. The confinement of the Tower could quickly become tedious, so in her free time, she dedicated herself to training volunteers to become rangers.
She ensured that the civilians were adequately prepared for the challenges that lay ahead. Their demanding training exercises outside the safety of the city's walls served as a vital element of their preparations. Crow, Holliday, and Saint were genuinely helpful in these endeavors, and Hawthorne was deeply appreciative of their assistance.
Then, the ancient Roman Gate manifested in the city center, prompting her to venture to Point Oasis on the other side of the gate. As the Guardians and senior Rangers took charge of the rescue operations and conducted research, she remained behind to oversee the battleground specifically designed for Rangers. Needless to say, they excelled in their training, showcasing impressive skills and determination.
"Seems like you've grown tired of lingering in the Tower," a voice spoke from behind her. The sniper could only offer a wry smile as she recognized the familiar voice. "Sames to you, Paige." As Paige comes up next to her, she looks down at the battleground, seeing the rangers practicing.
"New recon team, I assume?" "Yup, it's the new battalion I've been training back in the Farm. They're good but not on the level of the 3rd recon yet." Suraya said as she observed the battleground.
"How are the discussions with the locals and demi-gods progressing?" Suraya asked before continuing. "I've reviewed the reports, but it seems they're more backwater than I had initially thought. These Apostles are stubborn, much like the Titans, although perhaps not quite as thick-headed."
Paige chimed in, nodding in agreement. "Zavala and the others may not appreciate that analogy, but I have to agree with you on that point. Additionally, there's the grim reality that the Apostles stand ready to obliterate anyone who promotes the notion of technology."
"Jeez, sounds like something straight out of Earth's pre-Golden Age," Suraya remarked. As the training exercise concluded, she turned to the veteran Warlock. "Is there anything I should be aware of before heading down there?"
"Itami and his new fireteam, Trojan Horse, will be dispatched to Italica, accompanied by the 3rd recon for diplomatic negotiations." the veteran explained. "Meanwhile, my team will escort the warrior bunnies to the FOB."
"Trojan Horse?" Suraya inquired. "He chose the name himself after the incident on the Throne World." Paige answered with a hint of amusement. "He's a Warlock but possesses the stubbornness of a Titan and the cunning of a Hunter. Shaxx is rather proud of him."
"Good to hear he's living up to his title." Hawthorne remarked before heading off to join the Rangers. She added with a playful grin, "Oh, and hey, don't forget you owe me some spicy ramen."
"I know." Paige replied, a grin forming in response to her friend's demeanor.
To be continued
a/n: Look Within OST from Beyond Light's expansion is recommended to play in the background
Deep Stone Crypt, from Itami's memory
20 minutes had elapsed since the space station crashed back onto Europa. Luck continued to favor Itami as the raid team reached the entrance of the Crypt once more. Scanners indicated that hostile forces were still present at the entrance to the Crypt.
Rising from the wreckage of the space station was Taniks the Abomination. In a truly astonishing turn of events, the notorious Fallen mercenary had managed to survive the crash and had affixed himself to a Heavy Shank powered by nuclear cores.
Devoid of his nuclear cores and encircled by Guardians, Taniks resorted to the Crypt's debris, conjuring a miniature storm projection that shielded him from the oncoming Guardians. The raid team swiftly moved into position, doing what they excelled at: unloading a barrage of firepower on the formidable boss.
CLANG!
CLANG!
BANG!
BANG!
KABOOOOOOOM!
The moment Itami activated the Wells of Radiance, the other Warlock unleashed a Nova Bomb at Tanik, while the Titans activated Thundercrash and the Hammer of Sol to deliver a devastating blow. The Hunters summoned their Arcstriders and Golden Guns, aiming their shots squarely at Taniks.
"Hugh, hugh, hugh." Taniks chuckled even as he endured the relentless assault from the Guardians. "You won't escape this time, OLD MAN!" shouted a Titan clad in white armor (Crystoscrene armor set) repeatedly hurling flaming hammers at the Fallen mercenary.
"Those of you who just used your supers, rocket launched at that mechanical ass!" Itami said as he quickly switched to his exotic rocket launcher (the Gjallarhorn). The raid team gathered within Itami's Wells of Radiance and unleashed a barrage of firepower upon the Fallen and Shank hybrid.
All six of them unleashed a relentless volley of sniper shots and rockets at Taniks. They were determined not to relent and they couldn't allow him to escape once more. Taniks' cunning, combat skills and history of causing havoc would make him a formidable adversary once more, necessitating a swift and decisive response from the Guardians.
"I'm running low on ammo," a Hunter announced as he switched to a trace rifle. "He's almost down! Concentrate your fire on his torso and head!" urged the Titan, preparing for a thundercrash. "Just keep him distracted, and I'll take care of the rest!"
"Hurry up, my Wells won't last much longer!" Itami exclaimed as he swiftly switched to his sniper rifle, shooting for Taniks' vulnerable spots. It didn't take much time before Taniks withdrew his storm, indicating that he was nearing his end.
"RAAAAGH!" Taniks bellowed. "The storm is down! NOW is the time!" Paige, the other Warlock, shouted. From their positions, the Titan and Hunter activated Thundercrash and Stasis Kamas, respectively.
Taniks was on the verge of unleashing a devastating attack that threatened to wipe out the entire team. The air crackled with impending doom as his monstrous form readied to strike.
But in this dire moment, a remarkable synergy unfolded. The Titan, fueled by unwavering resolve, summoned the Thundercrash, generating an aura of electrifying power. The Hunter, her skill honed to perfection, unleashed the Stasis Kamas, crystalline spears of icy fury. And Itami, the notable Newlight, harnessed all of his strength and unleashed Chaos Reach.
As they released their Supers in unison, a cataclysmic transformation occurred. A blinding white light erupted, enveloping the entire Crypt. Taniks the Abomination, roared in defiance, but it was drowned out by the overwhelming force of the Guardians. The clash between "old friends" had reached its pinnacle, and the outcome remained uncertain, shrouded in the brilliance of that blinding radiance.