A/N: Hey guys, it took awhile to complete this chapter. Having to go over paragraph after paragraph to make sure I didn't miss anything as well as keeping the flow of development well. It has been a long while since I updated this story but rest assured it isn't dead. With the new year already beginning, I want to ensure the stories I have remain alive. Now let's get on to the chapter!
'Thought'
Everything looked so different. It felt like it was somewhere with architecture similar to a few buildings in Midgard. The city itself had towers that reach up to the skies. He could see people walking below. Or rather the person whose perspective he was seeing from glass. This wasn't the work of the Echo. It was just like the few times he experienced it for the past month.
The perspective turned to the right as the person saw the glass of the building beside them. It revealed a minor reflection; a male figure. Alas… the face was smudged with black static to the point of being unrecognizable. Just like the name, the appearance of the individual was unidentifiable.
The body language displayed the male looked… depressed. Now that he noticed, the individual was in a room akin to an office or study room. The sounds muted, as if the male wanted to silence whatever he heard.
The air too was full of despair. Could that be what the male felt right now? If so, why?
A ringing sound reached his ears.
It sounded like someone was trying to call out to him. It was faint at first but it began to fully reach his hearing but the word that was a name was loudly static to his ears again.
"XXXX?'
Xavier's eyes snapped open, his slumber disturbed abruptly. His chest heaved, his lungs having a need to breathe in more air. The fingers of his left hand slipped to his head. His breathing lessened to its normal rhythm and calmed down. Another dream that was a memory of the same individual from before…
Looking up, Xavier saw the plate of Sector 7 as the morning bled into the lower level he stayed in. It had been a week since they joined AVALANCHE, taking small tasks here and there for the organization. Whenever things got extreme that would risk innocent lives, he would fulfill the promise he made to Tifa to ensure it was kept at a minimum. Of course it did lead to some words from Barrett until the rebuttal was made. A sharp one but also a critical statement towards the head of the AVALANCHE cell who begrudgingly listened after Tifa voiced her agreement to it afterwards. He wasn't the type to break a vow to a friend.
Peering not too far from him, he spotted M'werla using a makeshift bed to serve as comfort upon the grounds of the slums. A part of him wondered if she was used to this type of life before becoming a Thavnairian Dancer. He on the other hand was used to various environments due to his travels across the realm(s) so he had been resting against the wall to keep a guarded eye.
"M'werla, wake up."
The Miqo'te murmured in her sleep. "Mngh…" The snow-haired Eorzean stirred from her sleep and groggily opened her eyes. "Morning…"
"Good day to you as well."
The girl stretched her upper body, her fingers curling before relaxing after eliciting a yawn. The female Eorzean massaged her shoulders to rid the discomfort.
"Same as before?"
The Miqo'te shook her head and gave a wry smile. "I'm used to such conditions before I was an adventurer." She admitted.
Ah. Perhaps he should have worded it differently next time. Standing up, Xavier stretched his limbs and sighed. He too was used to the conditions of sleep. The travel across Eorzea and whatnot had made him sleep in some places that were uncomfortable. "Shall we head to the tavern?"
M'werla nodded in response. The two Eorzeans brushed away any dust on their clothing and made their way to the Seventh Heaven. Since it was morning, it was closed. But to those in Tifa's circle of companions, they were allowed to enter without problem. Seeing the building in question, the Eikon Slayer knocked lightly before he and the Miqo'te entered.
Tifa was in the midst of cleaning several glasses to prepare for the night. The buxom brawler paused when she spotted the reflection in the glass and looked back to see the two. "Oh Xavier, M'werla. Morning!"
"Morning, Tifa," replied Xavier.
"Morning." M'werla waved slightly. "Can I…?"
"Oh, you can. I'll make you guys something to eat." Relief washed over, allowing the snow-haired Miqo'te to lower her hood and adjust her cloak. With both parts of the accessory move, it allowed her feline ears and tail to reveal themselves which gave M'werla content. Whenever she visited the bar in the morning hours, it gave her the opportunity to reveal her traits as they swore to never disclose she was a Miqo'te. Far as they knew, M'werla was the only Miqo'te living in Midgard.
The brawler wasn't sure where exactly in Gaia M'werla came from but never asked as the young girl was tight-lipped about her past.
The ravenette understood the girl's feelings and view on people. From the wariness and distrust to those who weren't in a social circle she was in. From the way she quickly adapted to life in the slums of Sector 7, it was clear M'werla once lived a life on the streets. Trust was paramount to her.
"Say M'werla, out of curiosity how old are you exactly?" asked Tifa.
Swallowing the food that was handed to her, the Miqo'te answered, "I am 19 years of age."
So the girl was definitely a year younger than her. Despite being the youngest member as of now, it was good the girl placed trust in her and the others. Wasn't easy as it sounds either. M'werla had been hesitant to talk to them but gradually warmed up.
"Yah!" M'werla yelped upon a sudden hold on her tail, startling Xavier and Tifa. The snow-haired Eorzean darted her head behind her and spotted what or rather who grabbed her tail.
It was a little girl adorned in a pink blouse that held a yellow ribbon. Her short hair was brown and matching colored eyes. The girl had already released the tail upon witnessing M'werla's yelp.
"Marlene!" Tifa gasped. She rushed around the counter, gently moving the mentioned child away from the Miqo'te. She completely forgot Marlene was here. The little girl must have gotten curious and accidentally grabbed M'werla's tail without knowing the sensitivity the Miqo'te had.
"I'm so sorry, M'werla!" Tifa frantically apologized. "I completely forgot I had to watch over Marlene for Barrett during our chat."
"I-It's… okay." The Miqo'te gently stroked her tail, mulling slightly to ease the tension of her appendage. "No harm done..."
"Marlene, what did your dad tell you about guests who are friends here?"
The girl lowered her head apologetically. "Do not hurt friends…"
"Exactly. Now say sorry to M'werla."
The little Midgardian looked at M'werla, shuffling her hands. "I'm sorry, Miss Mee… u-um-"
"M-Wer-la." The child perked up to notice the older woman speak to her. Then the 19 year old pressed a finger to her lips, smiling lightly, "And be sure you don't say anything about my tail and ears to other people."
"Daddy said not to talk to strangers."
"And right he is." Tifa playfully ruffled the girl's hair, making her giggle. She then pointed to Xavier. "And that there is Xavier, he's a friend of mine your dad knows too."
"Please to meet you, Marlene." Xavier waved, earning a wave in return. "I'm guessing her father is Barrett as you said?"
"Yeah. He occasionally asks me to watch over her on occasions when he does his work." The brawler explained, gently setting Marlene on a chair before circling the counter after handing her a smaller plate. "You know how Barrett is."
"He seems to be raising Marlene well, all things considered."
Tifa smiled in agreement. Barrett can be stubborn at times but deeply cares for his daughter. "So what are your plans for today?"
M'werla fiddled with the utensil. "I plan to join Jessie in moving some supplies that are needed for a few shops." She answered.
"As for me, I plan to explore more of the area since I never properly had a chance." Xavier answered. From the whole month he has been here, he never really explored a lot of it as he had primarily been occupying himself with countless tasks while looking out for M'werla. Now that the Miqo'te has more company to rely on, it was a chance for both sides. A little leisure wouldn't hurt for him.
M'werla peered at Marlene with a mix of amusement and caution, still gently stroking her tail to soothe the lingering discomfort. She couldn't fully be angry at the child given it was her first time seeing her.
"Wouldn't hurt." Tifa acknowledged. From everyone, Xavier had been tirelessly supporting people. Quite frankly, now that she looked back on it, he really hasn't been procrastinating, only altruistically helping them. She never heard any bad things about him, just positive words of his actions.
Come to think of it… when has he asked for anything from anyone? Sending a glance at Xavier, she remembered what she wanted to ask him before. Given everything he has done….
She just had an idea. It may be a long shot but it just might work.
The transport of supplies was often the norm for the Neighborhood Watch. To pick up the aforementioned items just outside the fences after they are dropped off by the ones in the upper plates who deliver them. The Miqo'te watched Jessie talk to the owner of a food stall. Her blue eyes lingered elsewhere, gripping the edge of the hood.
Despite the efforts, she still felt out of place. Not due to the cloak but to being the only Miqo'te in this realm. It was still a lot to grasp as she practically was living in a realm unknown to her. Hopefully there will be a method to return to Eorzea.
"No problem!" She heard Jessie wave back while exiting the shop. The brunette stretched in relief. "That was the final delivery. We finally got ourselves a break."
M'werla sighed. "For that, I would agree." From ensuring the boxes were not invaded by the local beasts who often steal it, to finding the right place of delivery.
The Miqo'te yawned slightly, earning Jessie's attention. Getting a good look at the snow-haired girl, her eyes held tiredness. "Have you been sleeping well?" asked Jessie.
"Of sorts but I'm used to sleeping in such conditions."
"Used to? … Wait, so you did grow up in the streets." Now Jessie learned something about M'werla. She was right about the life M'werla had.
"… I did." M'werla's thoughts wandered to the Garlean invasion, and how it had shaped her life. Memories of the harsh journey through the deserts of Ul'dah filled her mind, the heat, the desperation, and grief she suffered. The harsh conditions she lived in before it continued upon sleeping in the back alleyways. Yet, here she was, in an entirely new world, trying to find her footing once more. "But no longer after I chose life as an Adventurer."
M'werla's thoughts snapped back to the present as Jessie's curious gaze met hers. She took a deep breath, letting the memories of her past fade into the background. She couldn't let the shadows of her history affect her new life here. The sun was setting, casting a warm glow over the bustling marketplace. It was a reminder that despite her struggles, there was always a new day, a new chance to find her place in this world.
She watched as people moved about their business, some familiar faces and others new. Each person seemed to have their own story, their own struggles. It made M'werla realize that she was not so different from them after all, regardless of race. Despite being from another realm, she shared the same hopes and dreams, the same desire to belong and to make a difference.
Jessie leaned against a wall, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "You know, I think you're going to fit in just fine here. We all have our quirks and stories. Yours is just a bit more... exotic."
M'werla chuckled softly, her tail swaying beneath the cloak. "Exotic, huh? That's one way to put it…"
"How about crashing with me?" Jessie offered M'werla.
The question left the Miqo'te rather flabbergasted. "Wh-What?"
The brunette paused and tapped the side of her head. "…. Oh right, you still don't know slang. My bad. What I meant to say is how about staying with me?"
M'werla blinked, processing the unexpected invitation. The thought of staying with someone in this strange new world was both comforting and daunting. She had grown used to fending for herself after becoming an adventurer, always keeping her distance to avoid unnecessary complications. Adding to her trust only to those in certain circles of hers. Yet, there was something about Jessie's earnest demeanor that made her want to lower her guard, if only just a little.
"You see," Jessie continued, her voice softening, "I've got a bit of space and you shouldn't have to worry about finding shelter every night. I've seen how you stuck around Xavier because of it for the sense of safety since the guy looks out for everyone."
M'werla's ears twitched at the sincerity in Jessie's words. She had always prided herself on her independence, but the idea of having a steady roof over her head and a friend to share it with was appealing. Still, her inherent caution made her hesitate.
"I-I appreciate the offer, truly," M'werla stammered, her tail flicking nervously beneath her cloak. "But... what about your housemates? Won't they find it strange due to myself always seen in the cloak outside the Seventh Heaven?"
"I'll make sure my housemates don't see those cat ears and the tail. I promise you that. Besides I am sure they'll like the new company." Jessie raised a pinky, smiling at M'werla.
The Miqo'te chewed her lips. "I-I…" She felt anxious to accept but at the same time, Jessie was a good companion to her. Jessie's unwavering smile and the light in her eyes suggested she genuinely cared, and that warmth was something M'werla found rare. Back in Ul'dah, she lived a hard life and became a dancer to earn gil. After witnessing the helmeted Warrior of Light's heroic actions, she chose the path of an adventurer but the days of her past still clung onto her.
Inhaling deeply, M'werla finally nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. Slowly she raised her own hand and hooked her own pinky over Jesse's own. "Alright... I'll stay with you, Jessie."
The Eorzean's acceptance made Jessie jubilant. "Sweet! I'll let my friends know about your stay!" The brunette cheered, jogging in the opposite direction. "You know where I'll be! Be sure to let Xavier know!"
"W-Wait! Hrmmhh…" The Ala Mighan whined.
Having no choice, M'werla went in search of the fellow adventurer. The people she would see in the lower sector milling about. A few people greeted her, which she did in kind. Back in Ul'dah, people barely greeted her whenever she walked by, only the fellow Miqo'te she knew. Times like this she felt glad there was a place she felt welcomed. Just because she wore the cloak to hide her appendages, they still greet her regardless of her shrouded appearance.
Looking ahead, she spotted Xavier by the platform of the train station speaking to one of the locals who was thanking him for something. No doubt one of his many tasks he had tirelessly helped with. Staring at Xavier, there was still something about him that was familiar to her. At first she had originally thought it was nothing but the way he fought was similar if not identical to the Warrior of Light who, with the support of his party, saved her from the noble. All she remembered about him was he was covered in steel scale mail and a helmet, all of which were dipped in dark gray colors, holding a sword with one hand and no shield as the old rumors told her. To only use his reinforced brace to block any blade but to swing quick and precise. A similar manner Xavier does - swift and precise with a sword in one hand.
It can't be the one and the same could it? She suppressed the assumptions down and saved it for another time. "Xavier." She called.
Hearing her, the fellow adventurer noticed her presence. He gave the local a brief bow before approaching her. "Hey M'werla, I take it that you and Jessie finished?"
"Yes we did." The female Eorzean shuffled slightly.
"Did something happen?"
"Nothing bad, actually. Jessie offered me a place where she and some people she knows resides," replied the Miqo'te.
"You seem hesitant of the offer."
"I-It's not that! It's just… new for me. Yes I have camped with fellow adventurers but it's been awhile since."
Xavier crossed his arms, "Well, you and Jessie do get along well. I'm sure it will provide a change of pace for you won't it?"
"That's… true…" M'werla mumbled. To be around more company would provide some level of comfort for her. Especially with a familiar face. She can't remain dependent on Xavier when she also had companions within AVALANCHE. Inhaling and exhaling, the Ala Mihgan said, "Okay. I'll give it a try."
The Eikon Slayer smiled. "If anything happens just let our companions know, fair?"
"Fair." The Dancer acknowledged. "I'll do my best!"
The Warrior of Light flashed a smile. "It's settled then. Go on and regroup with Jessie."
"What about you?"
"I'll be fine. I plan to see if anyone else requires assistance before I get rest." The Gunbreaker assured her. He was relieved that M'werla was becoming more open to the friends they made.
"Okay, take care of yourself Xavier." The fellow Eorzean gave him a small wave of goodbye before she went her merry way to see Jessie.
Just as the Gridanian progressed, "What do you mean we can't have her get the treatment? Didn't you tell them what is happening to our daughter?" Xavier paused his steps to the voices that reached his ears. He snuck a glance to the train platform. The conversation was between the man and woman. From a glimpse, they must be married but the woman was distraught.
"I tried but the payment for the treatment is too expensive. We don't have enough." He overheard the man explaining to the woman.
"B-But she doesn't… she doesn't have that much time if we can't get her treatment! She…" The woman wept, her husband hugging her.
Watching the scene unfold, the young man grasped his head slightly to the sudden yet blistering headache and awful sound ringing in his ears. The same sensation he felt before. It was replaying that very scene he dreamt about last night. That feeling the individual felt but this time there was another person with that individual: two people with him as they shared the same exact expression. It kept replaying over and over until it ended. Lowering his hand, his mind went still and gazed at the couple, the despair that shrouded them as they somberly left the train station and towards their residence.
A sudden feeling tugged his mind, beckoning him to act.
An instinct that he will follow.
The afternoon was just replaced by the growing night, granting everyone the darkness of the day with the sun already setting. The two adults had been distraught, unable to sleep due to their ill daughter.
The gil they make isn't enough and to even buy the necessities won't help push it back. The despair that lingered was enough to know they will be grieving for their precious child.
A knock echoed from the door itself. The peculiar thing was they weren't expecting anyone. Carefully, the man approached the door. Opening the door, the couple were greeted with an unexpected guest. An armored individual clad in black and white. The helmet hid the identity of his face entirely. While the crest of the collar was ornamental of sorts that was almost regal/royal, it was over black cloth. The cuffs puffed out and the ends of the robe had an attached cloth between them. His legs were armored with similarly colored plating for protection.
The sight of the person surprised them but also befuddled by the unexpected arrival.
"Is your daughter here?" The armored white mage questioned.
"Wh-Wha…?"
"Your daughter. Is she ill?" He asked again. "I wish to help treat it."
At first it would have been seen as a lie to hear from the stranger but the earnest words in his voice held no facade. Not one who wanted to take advantage but one who wished to help. Hope briefly filled the parents' eyes. The father opened the door, allowing the White Mage to follow the married couple.
The couple led the White Mage through their humble home, the wooden floors creaking softly beneath their feet. The home was modest, with signs of wear and tear, but it was clear that it was filled with love and care. Family photos adorned the walls, and a small fireplace crackled in the corner, casting a warm glow in the otherwise dim room.
The White Mage followed them silently, his presence both imposing and comforting. As they approached the child's room, the couple exchanged nervous glances, their hope resting solely on this mysterious visitor. When they entered, the room was filled with the faint smell of herbs and the soft sound of labored breathing.
"Please, please is there anything you can do?"
Observing much closer to the young one, the White Mage's eyes knit beneath his helmet. It was an ailment but it was a deadly one based on the girl's condition. It will be a long process but his mastery (though still ongoing) over White Magic will help what needs to be done. He had tirelessly studied and practiced it whenever possible to improve his magic.
The White Mage gently raised a hand before reaching for his staff. The winged staff that had been one he had earned during his time in the land of fae within the First. With its added Materia to enhance the healing, it became a very well established staff throughout his frequent times as a White Mage. Closing his eyes beneath the white helmet, he gently whispered a small incantation. With the final word spoken, a wisp of light shrouded the little girl before fading.
With Esuna casted, the Warrior of Light then raised the Fae Staff, hovering the upper edge over the child. Wonder crossed the adults behind him upon the eruption of light from his back, almost shaped as wings. Focusing on his mana, a baby bluish-green glow glimmered from the tip of the staff whereas the body was shrouded in a dim glow and onto the child.
The adults watched in utter fascination and amazement to what was happening.
As the glow intensified, a warm, comforting sensation spread through the air, embracing everyone present. The child's previously pallid skin began to regain its color, and a faint, steady breath emerged, signaling the return of life and vigor. The miracle unfolding before their eyes left the parents speechless, their emotions teetering between hope and disbelief.
The glow diminished before the eyelids of the child wavered and slowly opened. Her groggy eyes looked at the adults, primarily her parents. "Mommy…? Daddy…?"
The parents hugged their child tightly, overjoyed by the miraculous recovery. They raised their heads to the white clad Eorzean who rested the staff over his back, the glimmering light shaped as wings fading away. He gently reached into his black sleeve and procured a vial of what was possibly an elixir due to its color. Unlike most sold, the vial itself looked extremely high class that would be worth more than most could afford in their life. One he had recently made for this. "Give this to her for a week, minimal amounts. By then, she will be fully recovered to move about and with no more problems thereafter."
Clutching the vial, the man fell to his knees and looked up at the armored mage. His eyes were red with tears to the one who saved their daughter. "Thank you…. Thank you so much!" The father thanked the young man.
The Champion of Eorzea bowed slightly before making his way to the door. He paused his steps, looked over his shoulder and said, "Seeing that child well again, is what matters more than anything." and exited the small house.
The girl looked at her parents. "…Was that an angel, mommy?" The little girl asked innocently.
Xavier stared at the stars of the night, finding the location fitting to gaze at the glimmering lights above. While the Plate had covered most, the area he was in gave a view of the sky above. He sat on the roof, one leg bent and his arm over it while the other leg was flat against the surface. After what he did to save the child, he felt relief to know he was able to do something. Not just as an adventurer, but there was something within him that wanted to do whatever possible to help save the parents' child from that illness. It felt like... he understood that feeling. He didn't have a history of having such a serious illness nor knew others who did. What brought out such a connection?
It gave questions but at the same time finding no answers, which made him slightly bitter. The more he looked into it, the more he began to notice the mystery of it. Did it bother him? A little. Xavier let out a soft sigh, the weight of his thoughts settling into a contemplative silence. The air was cool, a gentle breeze ruffling his hair, almost as if the universe itself was trying to soothe his restless mind. Just as he was about to close his eyes and lose himself in the serenity of the moment, a familiar presence broke through his reverie.
"Didn't think you would be up here." He peered over his shoulder to catch sight of Tifa who waved, a thin smile seen on her lips.
"What made you guess this was the place?"
The Midgardian pointed to the stars that were visible. "One of the few spots here in Lower Sector 7 to get a view of the stars." She sat down beside him. "I often come here too." It was also from nostalgia from the days back then for her.
Xavier tensed. "I-I apologize if this area meant much to you-!"
Tifa giggled. "No, it's alright. Not like it's exclusively for me." She leaned back, stretching her legs out in front of her and gazing up at the night sky. "It's actually nice to share this spot with someone else for a change."
Xavier glanced at her, noticing the serene expression on her face. "It... must be peaceful up here. I can see why you come."
Tifa nodded, her eyes still fixed on the stars. "Sometimes, it's the only place where I can clear my head. The hustle and bustle of Sector 7 can get overwhelming."
He could relate as he had done the same back in Eorzea. The constant noise and activity of their lives could be draining. Finding a quiet place to breathe felt like a luxury. "I think I understand what you mean. Finding a moment of quiet can make all the difference."
Silence briefly washed over for a few good long minutes until Tifa broke it by saying, "So what made you go?"
"Pardon?"
Tifa gestured to the Gunbreaker attire. "You said you and M'werla lived far from Midgard where it doesn't rely on Mako and the outfit you have almost looks military."
Xavier looked down at himself before he laughed softly. He never thought to hear such an assumption. Though he is in a military that is the Immortal Flames, his outfit wasn't the standard uniform they wear. "Actually, it was given to me." He remembered gaining it during his journey in the First, before confronting Emet-Selch. "I kept it because I didn't want to forget the day I made a promise to someone."
"A promise?"
"Someone who didn't want to be forgotten alongside those like him." Emet-Selch's request. He never forgot it to this very day; one he will keep to his very grave.
'Remember us... That we once lived.' Those were the words Emet-Selch requested and kept it since.
Tifa caught on to the meaning of his statement and winced slightly. She must have asked a personal question based on the tone of his answer. "I shouldn't-"
"It's fine, Tifa. You were curious so rest assured, I didn't mind answering it as it didn't upset me." He waved his hand. "Regarding the military, however, I am part of one. Not Shinra, however, I assure you."
So she was partially right about him being military. "What military?"
"Immortal Flames. Flame Captain is my current position." He jabbed a thumb to himself.
"Never thought you were that high up in the military." He was her age and got that far in military ranks? He must have impressed his superiors, adding to contributions based on his altruism.
"While I am, I am also someone who ventures out to explore the unknown. An adventurer as it was one I wanted to be." He smiled thinly at the fond memories. From the day he first became an adventurer to the recent events. "Journeying around the realm had always been something I did before joining the Immortal Flames. Even in service, my role as an adventurer never went away. They completely understood my ongoing role and respected it."
From the description of the Immortal Flames, it seems there was a military force that respected the occupations of those like Xavier. A part of her envied whatever nation Xavier was from.
"It's interesting how life has led us both to places so different from where we started," Xavier said, his voice filled with nostalgia. He glanced at Tifa, who was still gazing up at the stars.
"Yeah, it's funny how things turn out," she replied, her tone soft. "We all have our paths, and sometimes they intersect in the most unexpected ways."
Xavier nodded, understanding the sentiment all too well. His journey had been anything but predictable, filled with twists and turns he never could have anticipated. As he thought back on his adventures, a smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.
"You know... a part of you reminds me of him..."
"Him?" Curiosity glinted in his eyes.
"Cloud." She smiled, wrapping her arms around her legs. Her copper-colored eyes remained fixated on the night sky. "He was someone I know as we both grew up in the same town. Told me he wanted to be a SOLDIER..."
From her words, it seems Cloud was her childhood friend. However, the term SOLDIER puzzled him. "Pardon me for asking, you said soldier. As in infantrymen?"
"Er, sorta... more like... the name of elite troops..." Xavier briefly noticed the minor bitterness that rose within her eyes when she gave her explanation. It seems there was something about her bitterness towards them. Not to this Cloud she mentioned but rather someone else connected to the SOLDIERs.
He won't press a question regarding it. It was her past and if she didn't want to bring it up, then he is okay with it. Tifa has been a good friend and a kind-hearted individual. It wouldn't be right to open old wounds of the past. Only she will decide when the time is right to tell him.
Silence washed over them before the adventurer witnessed her stand on her feet. She must be ready to depart and quite frankly so does he as the onset of sleep was starting to hold. Stretching upon being on her feet, Tifa peered at Xavier who rubbed his shoulder. "If it's okay with you, can you continue to tell me your days where you are from along the way?"
Xavier blinked before smiling. "I wouldn't mind it." He accepted. The duo climbed down the platform they stood on, their feet landing on the dirt. "Where to start..."
"How about... oh! Where did you live?"
The black-white haired adventurer chuckled. "Well, I was born in a village by the North Shroud, which is a forest in case you are curious. Lived there until I came of age to travel." He started. "During my time growing up, I would practice with a sword before my journey began."
As they walked, Tifa spoke up again. "Tell me more about the North Shroud. What was it like growing up there?"
Xavier's eyes glimmered with fond memories. "The North Shroud is a dense forest, filled with towering trees and a variety of wildlife. It's a place where nature thrives, and as a child, I spent countless hours exploring every nook and cranny. My village was small, but close-knit. Everyone knew each other, and there was always a sense of community."
Tifa smiled, picturing the serene and verdant landscape in her mind. "It sounds beautiful. Must have been quite an adventure growing up there."
"It was," Xavier agreed. "And it was in those woods that I first picked up a sword. My father was a skilled swordsman, and he taught me everything he knew. We would train together, and he always emphasized the importance of the choices that are brought the moment I take up the sword, rather than the firearms since the village I was born and raised in didn't have any."
Tifa listened intently, her own thoughts drifting to her journey from Nibelheim to Midgard. She could relate to the sense of leaving home. While the circumstances were different, they both had reasons.
"Tifa, I take it you are going to go rest?" The buxom brawler noticed she and Xavier not only arrived on the complex but also greeted by the owner.
"Oh, Marle." Tifa greeted the elderly woman. "Just in time right?"
"That's right." The woman looked at Xavier. "Oh you must be the Xavier that everyone knows."
"It's a pleasure." He bowed slightly. "Tifa said your name is Marle?"
"Yes I am. I happen to run this complex as the landlady. Tifa here being one of my occupants." Marle explained to the Eorzean, gesturing to the building behind her. The adventurer was familiar with it as he had walked by it countless times during his daily routines. Never thought it was Marle herself who ran the place. "Would you like a tour yourself?"
"Er…" Xavier scratched his cheek. It wouldn't hurt to accept. "I wouldn't mind?"
He followed Marle while Tifa trailed after them. Climbing up the stairs, it gave the Warrior of Light a closer glimpse of its exterior. It certainly consisted of two floors while there were a total of twelve apartments based on the number of doors he saw. "Aside from Tifa, I assume other individuals live here too?"
"While most of the apartments are occupied, there are a few that are available. This room is one of the vacant units." Marle gestured to the room they halted at. "Already prepared for the next occupant."
"What do you mean by already prepared?" asked Xavier.
"You'll be staying here."
Surprise rose from the Warrior of Light. "W-Wait, you mean to say that this room is…"
Marle nodded, "Go inside."
The Eikon Slayer, astonished, steadily stepped inside the apartment room, basking in its interior. Its gray colors darkened by the night outside but there laid a bed. A shower cubicle was noticeable at the corner alongside a sink beside it.
Xavier looked between Tifa who smiled and the landlady. "I… didn't expect to be given this…" he really meant it. With M'werla living with Jessie and her female companions, he didn't think he was given his own room to reside in.
"Tifa here told me of everything you had been doing for everyone here. I myself have seen it several times." The elderly woman explained. "Quite frankly, you coming to this sector felt like it was a godsend for everyone. You'll be surprised by the good words people say about you. And I mean practically everyone here, not including the unsavory bunch who you had warded off occasionally."
She gently gestured to the outside. "Throughout my time here, when you live in these areas, Xavier, trust has been one thing that lays the foundation between these people. Yes, we often had to rely on Shinra Security for help but after you and your friend arrived, you had tirelessly helped everyone down to even the littlest of things. And that speaks a lot of your altruism. People here owe you much but you never asked for anything in return from it, not even once. You…" she then laughed lightly. "I say you inspired people around here with such a view you hold."
Xavier's mind raced as he tried to process the landlady's words. It was true he had done his best to help everyone he could, but hearing it laid out like this felt surreal. He took a deep breath, feeling a mixture of pride and humility.
"Thank you, ma'am," Xavier said earnestly, bowing his head slightly. "I just did what felt right."
The landlady's eyes twinkled with warmth. "And that's exactly why you're so deserving of this room. Consider it a token of our appreciation. By 'our,' I mean everyone in this lower sector."
Xavier nodded, feeling the weight of her words. As he looked around the room again, it began to feel more like a home—a sanctuary that tickled him with memories. Just like the day in Gridania.
Tifa stepped closer, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "You've earned this, Xavier. Don't ever doubt that."
He gave her a grateful smile, still overwhelmed by the gesture. "It's more than I could have ever asked for. Thank you both."
Marle chuckled softly. "Now, don't just stand there. Make yourself at home. You deserve it." She exited the apartment, leaving Tifa and Xavier as the only occupants.
"Think this will be okay?" asked the brawler.
The brawler received a smile from the Warrior of Light. "Yes. And… thank you Tifa." He thanked. "I… never thought to receive such a gift."
Tifa brushed a lock of her hair behind her ear and flashed a smile at him. "It's the least we can do for everything you did. Really. So… yeah." She said. "If you ever want some assistance and all, I can help."
The male Eorzean smiled. "I'll be sure to take note of it, Tifa. The offer you made applies the same to you as well." He gently extended a hand.
Tifa's smile grew and returned the gesture.
A/N: Another chapter complete, and the prologue arc at its end. With it, we will soon be getting to the main events that transpire for all of our characters only this time with challenges that will lie ahead for them. That being said, I will be updating my other Final Fantasy story by, hopefully, the beginning of February so look forward to it. And after that, there will be the publishing of a new story. Until then, see you next time everyone!
