AN: Well, I know it's been a little while (definitely longer than I'd intended), but here we are at a new year with chapter 12. While there's several reasons for the delay, I will admit that this chapter was a bit more challenging to write not just in figuring out how to make going through the Copperbell Mines interesting, but also as TalonScythe pointed out Lelouch and Kallen are going to react and respond to things that happen in FF14's story differently than the WoL does and figuring out how to adapt this part of the MSQ around that took a bit of time. I just hope my adaptation of things turned out to be a good one.

PSA to Readers: This chapter will be involving some minor ARR characters from canon that anyone would be forgiven for not remembering. If you want context, please go to YouTube, find the channel "FFXIV Archived" and look at the video "The Forgotten". Don't worry, it's only a little less than 3 minutes long. While I doubt the channel owner is reading this fic, I must give due credit and kudos to them for putting together such a good collection of story content from FF14 to look at for reference, especially ARR side stuff that is very easy to miss, Events that one may not have been around to experience and story content from 1.0. I highly recommend checking out that channel if you're interested (also if you need a refresher on Edda's story, they have a video on that too, including a look at the dungeon notes she leaves in Tam-Tara Deepcroft (Hard) that most of you probably didn't get the chance to read because the party's focus is moving through and completing the dungeon ASAP). I would also like to give credit to the YouTube playthroughs by MontyGlu because the commentary by her and any friends along for the playthrough make going over MSQ scenes to consider how adapt them enjoyable.

Before we begin a couple of review responses:

Des Shinta: I think part of the reason for the misconception has to do with Sakuradite having a liquid form and one of the scenes establishing its volatility involves a bunch of the liquid Sakuradite being in an oil tanker (that gets blown up). Since we're kind of conditioned to associate oil with fuel, it's possible that form of Sakuradite got mixed in on pure reflex.

TalonScythe: I admit I did consider going in that direction with Avere; the idea being that he'd survive thanks to Lelouch and co.'s intervention but resent the rescue, that leading him to willingly pick the wrong side at a banquet we're all familiar with and meet his end as fuel for a certain summoning. Why I ultimately didn't was because it didn't really feel worth it: Edda was always going to be the party's main healer and coming up with a good reason to work with Lelouch and Kallen and not a still alive Avere was difficult, finding ways to keep him alive for that long didn't feel like it would work and finally, "Sir Sloppeh" already has two flunkies that turn on the WoL, one of them being a pathetic and easily hate-able hyur, so it didn't feel worth adding him to that storyline. As a result his canon death stayed as is. Funny coincidence though: a subplot similar to what you theorized does happen in a book series I've been enjoying and getting close to finishing: Heretic Spellblade by K.D. Robertson. It's a good and fun 8 book long (the keyword being "long") series that at times kind of reminds me of the "Lelouch tries changing the past" setup some Code Geass fics use. Be warned it is very much an "18" story, but if one doesn't mind that it's worth checking out in book or audio form.

Disclaimer: The following is a fan-based writing, Code Geass belongs to Bandai Entertainment, Sunrise, MBS, Crunchyroll, Goro Taniguchi and Ichiro Okouchi. Final Fantasy 14 belongs to Square Enix with major props to Naoki Yoshida/Yoshi-P and his dedicated team at Square Enix's Creative Studio III for its continuous great quality. Please support the official release. Also you'll probably spot a reference to a certain abridged series later in this chapter that I simply couldn't resist the urge to make.

Chapter 12: Ul'dah's Underground Unrest

Gridania

"So, the three of you aren't opposed to taking a little trip? Wonderful!" Miounne declared after registering Edda as part of Lelouch and Kallen's party. She then looked at the brunette. "As I mentioned earlier to Lelouch and Kallen, the request comes to us from the Adventurers' Guild in Ul'dah. Once you arrive, seek out Momodi, the proprietress of the Quicksand. Think of her as sultanate's version of myself."

"I'll say that's accurate, you're both as supportive of the adventurers you get." Kallen complimented the elezen proprietress and turned to their team's new healer. "Momodi's got a bit of a thing for gossip, but she'll have your back when it counts. I think you'll like her."

"I agree," Miounne nodded. "Chances are she'll send the three of you into the midst of danger, but I have every confidence that you will pull through unscathed."

After Miounne wished the trio good luck, a quick talk revealed Edda hadn't been to Ul'dah before and subsequently wasn't attuned to the city's aetheryte. As a result, they would be heading there via airship.

It was shortly after the airship had taken off and begun a steady course to Ul'dah, that Lelouch noticed a troubled expression on Edda's face as she gazed forward in the direction the airship was heading. While it was to be expected that the brunette would be feeling down given the recent loss of her betrothed, she looked more worried than aggrieved.

"Nervous about the job in Ul'dah?" Kallen asked, having noticed their new teammate's mood and having seen similar from new cell recruits. "I don't blame you after what's happened, but if it's anythinglike the last one we'll do things like we did the first time we teamed up for starters."

"Okay..." Edda replied before a thought came to her and she gave an anxious yet appreciative smile. "Now that I think of it, this is a little similar to then. What you told me before we started was similar, I mean, Kallen."

"Well, it's important to give new recr-teammates a good pep talk when they need it." The rebel turned adventurer blushed in a combination of the slip and the brunette's grateful gaze. "Maintaining morale and all that..."

"Indeed…" Lelouch commented before considering something. "…Speaking of our first collaboration, Edda, I imagine one of the areas that you wish to work on would be improving your casting of spells..."

"Yes, I at least want to be able to heal you both quicker and find some way to do it while moving so I don't slow you down or need to get close enough to cast the spell." Edda nodded as she replied. "Do you know of any ways I could do this, Lelouch?"

"I'm aware of a few, for starters, are you aware of the cantrip called Swiftcast, Edda?" The former prince asked in reply.

"It's a minor spell that makes it so the caster's next spell happens instantly; that's what I've been told." The brunette answered and her look turned glum. "I've only been told how it works and don't know it yet..."

"It's all right, I'm mainly aware of the spell through my experience as an arcanist and am still figuring out how to effectively apply it to the thaumaturge and conjurers' arts myself. We can work on the latter together later; it may even speed up the process." Lelouch said in a reassuring tone before continuing his explanation. "While we're on the subject of cantrips, there is another I've heard of more in line with what you're looking for known as Surecast, but that's a more advanced spell so we'll have to reserve looking into it until later. For now, there is a sort of way to move while casting, it's simply a matter of timing."

"Timing?" Edda gave the other a questioning look before realizing something. "Wait, there were a couple of times I was able to cast a healing spell while following Avere and the others..." She briefly paused to mentally push away the recent bad memories, she didn't want to look bad for her new companions, even if in the back of her mind she knew they wouldn't judge her so harshly. "...is that what you mean?"

"I take it these occurred in cases where you had stopped to begin casting it, correct?" At the brunette's nod, the raven-haired magic user privately wondered if that was why the departed dolt had believed Edda should be capable of healing on the literal run but decided not to inquire and instead gave his affirmation. "Yes, you see there is a brief window of opportunity to move when a spell's casting is nearly completed. What one needs to do is figure out what consistent point in time that is and then be ready to move at said point."

"I see..." Edda paused to consider what she'd just heard. "...Is it that easy to learn?"

Lelouch noticed something behind the brunette conjurer's words, and having a good idea of what she might be thinking was glad for the truth of the matter before answering, "No, it's quite honestly a perfect example of the phrase 'easier said than done'."

The former prince waited just long enough for the other to fully look at him in response before continuing.

"Edda, you should consider applying this process with one spell will take time and the memorization process aside, you'll also be going against the habit born of concentrating so as to properly cast the spell. That complicates things because said habit isn't something one would normally break given that is the surest way to cast a spell. Now imagine applying the process to another spell and more as you learn new ones." Lelouch explained while giving her a sympathetic look. "I'm still in the process of learning this myself, and that's just with starting spells. I've even spoken to more experienced casters, more than just conjurers, and they consider this truly challenging. My point is, don't start thinking this is something you should have known beforehand and through that have changed things for the better."

"You also shouldn't burden yourself with constantly wondering what you could have done, Edda." Kallen spoke up, reflexively pausing as she was aware this was approaching revealing stuff she wasn't entirely comfortable with Lelouch knowing only to push that aside since her feeling that their new teammate should be told this seemed more important. "I know that's easier said than done, but...I've seen how badly that can mess a person up inside. If you need someone to talk to, remember you can talk to me or Lelouch. We'll at least listen..."

The rebel turned adventurer's thoughts then drifted to one particular member of her cell, Takeshi Nagata, a former potter who had lost his entire family in the Britannian invasion of Japan. That had been more than enough for the man to fully dedicate himself to the resistance, but one couldn't ignore how that loss had broken something inside him. While Naoto, and sometimes Ohgi, could talk Nagata through some of his darker moments on account of knowing him since childhood it only did so much. Sadly, it wasn't uncommon to hear the aggrieved rebel audibly wonder to himself what he could have done differently back then when he thought no one was listening.

Lelouch nodded before adding, "I can't promise we'll have the best words for you, but the offer stands."

Privately the former prince mentally noted to consider what might be the best words should Edda end up following through on the offer and she spoke with him. Sympathy for his new teammate aside, he had his pride in his oratory skills, after all.

After the brunette conjurer stammered her thanks, Lelouch switched to his conjurer's equipment before the trio moved to a part of the airship that was designated for adventurers to use for training if they wanted. Only low-level offensive magic was allowed to be used so as to avoid potential damage to the ship. Fortunately, the training involved healing magic so there were no worries there.

"We'll start with the basic healing spells to determine at what point the window for movement will be. This will involve both of us so we can also see if there's a difference in casting time between us." Lelouch explained to Edda before turning to Kallen. "Kallen, would you mind timing our casting?"

"Not really, but I don't have anything like a stopwatch, so it might be off by a bit." The rebel turned adventurer replied. She might have been a little reluctant if this was just Lelouch, but she understood the importance of team building, especially in this case.

"Did you bring a cell phone?" The raven-haired conjurer inquired.

"What? No, it wouldn't work here anyway, so…" Kallen paused as the other took out his own phone and proceeded to unlock it. "Mind if I ask why you bothered to bring yours?"

"Its main function may not work given where we are, but its camera function makes for a good way to get quick pictures of local fauna, documents or anything else of note." Lelouch answered simply before handing it to the redhead. "Feel free to check, that's all there is."

"Really? I'm surprised you don't have any…" Kallen stopped as she got a better look at the phone while getting to the app she needed. She recognized the brand since she and her cell would use them from time to time given how cheap they were. "Throwaway phone?"

"Exactly." Lelouch smiled cleverly only for that to stop when he remembered their new traveling companion. Looking back at Edda, the brunette conjurer was looking at them curiously but otherwise didn't look at all troubled by the pair's exchange. "Oh, this is…"

"Is that magitek?" Edda asked. "I haven't seen many but have heard people talk about them. Though usually it's things taken from fallen Garleans. I've also heard people from Sharlayan have somewhat similar things on them too."

"Something like that." The former prince answered vaguely as he considered the best way to change the subject back to the training.

"Yeah, plus Lelouch and I have met a couple people from Sharlayan, maybe we'll even run into one of them in Ul'dah." Kallen added casually, knowing that secrecy aside information on their world would only just overwhelm their new teammate right now. "The guy I know has a tendency to just show up out of nowhere, so I'd put my money on him."

"Perhaps, but I could use similar words to describe Y'shtola." Lelouch replied with amusement. "Care to make a wager on who it could be?"

"Maybe after we get the job from Momodi wrapped up." The redhead said. "Now, are we going to start with this training of yours, or what?"

Ul'dah

It took a little longer than normally would have to get to the Quicksand as after their arrival, prior to which Lelouch had changed to his arcanist equipment in preparation for the job, time was taken so Edda could attune to Ul'dah's greater aetheryte and the lesser ones on the way. From there, the three adventurers got to the adventurer's guild only to be greeted by the sight of a busier than usual tavern, even compared to the last time Lelouch and Kallen had been there. Maneuvering their way past and around the many customers, the trio soon reached the desk Momodi Modi was working at.

"Welcome to the Quicksand, friends. I'm a tad busy right now, if you wouldn't mind showin' yourself to - -." The lalafell redhead began on reflex, having only briefly glimpsed a small group of new arrivals approaching her desk while attending to her responsibilities as guildmaster, today's being quite numerous. Her eyes widened in recognition as she got a better look at said newcomers. "Oh, it's you, Kallen! And here I was spoutin' the same tired line! I see your partnership with Lelouch seems to be goin' well." Her eyes then strayed over to Edda. "Judgin' by your new company's determined expression, I take it she ain't here for ale."

"Oh, no, I…" Edda began only to then realize Momodi was joking and gave a polite smile before introducing herself, doing her best not to sound awkward, "Yes, I just joined Lelouch and Kallen as their team's healer. My name is Edda Pureheart."

"Pretty sure I saw your name along with Kallen and Lelouch's when Miounne sent word that you'd all be reportin' for duty." Momodi noted before looking at the latter two. "She also made a point callin' you two the adventurers of the moment. That ain't no small praise, comin' from her."

"Well, I'll make sure to thank her whenever we're back in Gridania." Kallen said appreciatively.

"Likewise." Lelouch gave a nod before looking over at Edda. "And I'm sure it won't be long until Edda is included in similar praising words."

As the brunette lightly blushed at the vote of confidence, Momodi spoke.

"I'm sure you didn't come all the way here to listen to my prattle." She surmised. "Doubtless you're eager to get started, so let's talk business, shall we?"

After the three each gave their affirmations, Momodi paused to look around the tavern.

"The petitioner ought to be arrivin' any moment now." The lalafell guildmaster noted.

"Gods almighty! Another second under that sun, and I would have been set afire!" A male voice that was familiar to Kallen, yet unfamiliar to Lelouch and Edda, suddenly declared as it came closer to the group. "A tankard of ale, if you would be so kind!"

Kallen turned to see the familiar bearded and bespectacled face of Papashan as the elder lalafell Sultansworn approached them. Lelouch and Edda did likewise and awaited an introduction.

"Excellent timin', Papashan." Momodi commented in greeting. "It just so happens the adventurers who'll be handlin' your petition are here."

Papashan turned first to the face he recognized while saying, "Oh? Why, if it isn't my good friend Kallen. It does my spirit well to know that you will be helping us." He then turned to regard Lelouch and Edda. "So, this strapping young lad is the much-lauded adventurer from Limsa that's teamed up with you, is he? And from the looks of things, this winsome lass must be your party's healer, is she not?"

"Right on both guesses." Kallen nodded before giving a quick introduction to Lelouch and Edda proceeded to introduce themselves afterwards. When they were both done, the rebel turned adventurer added. "Lelouch here may be a smartass but he's pretty good with magic, and Edda may have just joined us, but we've worked with her before and know she's got it in her to be a reliable healer."

"Oh? No praise for the skills we picked up together in Limsa Lominsa, Kallen? Lelouch asked teasingly, while Edda blushed from the praise she'd received.

"Fine. You're almost as good with knives as me. You happy?" The redhead sarcastically asked in reply.

"Mayhap you'd like to apprise Kallen and her friends of their mission?" Momodi said to Papashan, mainly to move things along, even if privately (at least for now) she was feeling a growing curiosity to how her fellow redhead's partnership could go in the future.

"Yes, of course. The petition in question was submitted by an acquaintance of mine at Amajina & Sons Mineral Concern. It relates to an unfortunate development at Copperbell Mines." Papashan began before looking at the trio seriously. "To be plain, giants have seized control of the place."

That came as a surprise to both Lelouch and Kallen, having not encountered such creatures yet, but before they could ask the pair were surprised yet again by Edda speaking first.

"Giants…you mean like the Gigas?" The brunette conjurer asked with some apprehension in her voice, she then noticed the questioning looks from her teammates. "They're a tribe of giants from Abalathia's Spine that moved to the south centuries ago, but some still roam the mountains near my village. They're said to be very dangerous monsters who attack any unfortunate enough to cross their path on sight."

"Not quite." Papashan shook his head at the healer's question. "These giants are of the clan known as the hecatoncheires; lesser kin to the ones you know, but still fearsome creatures. Enough that they were sealed within the deepest depths of the mines during the bygone Thorne Dynasty."

None of the three adventurers had anything to say, having no knowledge at all about said dynasty, so the elder Sultansworn continued.

"Alas, it seems they have managed to break through the layer of rock which served to imprison them, and now prowl the tunnels where the miners ply their trade." Papashan explained gravely. "The creatures are justifiably angry about their treatment at the hands of our ancestors, and their presence has forced the suspension of all mining activities on the site."

"It's no wonder they're angry." Momodi commented. "Didn't the Thorne Dynasty come to an end over three hundred years ago?"

"You know your history well, milady." Papashan complimented the guildmaster with an appreciative nod.

"Wait, over three hundred years ago?!" Kallen exclaimed. "These giants live that long?!"

"It's not that unusual if you consider the mythological ones from our respective homelands, Kallen." Lelouch commented before turning his attention back to Papashan. "So, what exactly did this past dynasty do to give these giants a justifiable grievance besides the sealing?"

"The people of that age used the hecatoncheires to work their mines, having purchased them as slaves from their monstrous Gigas kindred. By way of enchanted helms, they were able to bind the ferocious creatures to their will. But as is oft the way in such tales, these enchantments eventually failed, and the slaves rose up against their masters." The elder Sultansworn answered. "In a desperate bid to contain the unbridled fury of the hecatoncheires, our ancestors induced the collapse of the mines' lowermost levels. So it was that the Great Giant Revolt was ended—buried beneath a hundred thousand tons of rock."

Momodi couldn't help but notice the looks on both Lelouch and Kallen's faces at that revelation: a mix of shock and outrage at the giants' predicament and fate. While she couldn't blame them for that, she decided to slightly change the subject so further details on the assignment could be given.

"Well now...that's got me thinkin'... I seem to recall there bein' an article about Copperbell in the Mythril Eye a fortnight or so ago." The lalafell guildmaster said, briefly holding up a copy of said newspaper. "It said the mines were bein' reopened so as to meet the risin' demand for buildin' materials. Like as not, our boys dug a bit too deep and freed the giants." Seeing that had gotten the pair's attention, she voiced her own thoughts on the matter. "Gods...to think the poor creatures are still alive an' kickin after three centuries... That's a long time to nurse a grudge. They must be seethin'..."

"Sure as hell can't blame them for that." Kallen commented angrily through a mix of sympathy for the giants and the horror at the idea of being full on mind controlled into slavery. "Please don't tell me the job is just to go in and straight up kill them."

"I'm inclined to agree with Kallen." Lelouch said as he looked at Papashan. "Has there been any attempt at negotiation? …Or is that even possible?"

"Yes, to the first, but it seems unlikely for the second…" Papashan gave a weary sigh. "The brief encounters had by the few people that we've sent down there before have all been hostile ones, but we do know from them that the hecatoncheires can speak and understand the common tongue. The encounters have been with what look to be their clan's warriors, all rallied around a much larger giant calling himself Gyges the Great."

"So, this Gyges is the one leading the giants down the warpath…perhaps we can resolve this in a less bloody fashion if we remove him from the equation." Lelouch surmised.

"Indeed. At least under that one's leadership, that makes them a danger to us all." The elder Sultansworn replied. "There will be no mining at Copperbell so long as they remain. For the sake of both peace and prosperity, they must be subdued. This is the task which we would have you undertake. I'll not deny that the mission will be rife with danger, but our need is great. And so I beg you: put an end to this sorry business."

"Your plan does involve at least trying to negotiate, right?" Kallen asked.

"Yes, first with this Gyges, with everything after his likely refusal being self-defense." The former prince answered. "From there we can only hope there's any among the hecatoncheires with cooler heads willing to talk. If there isn't any choice though, we'll do what we must."

"I can go along with that." The Japanese pugilist said before turning to their new teammate. "What about you, Edda?"

The brunette gave a start of surprise, she hadn't expected to be included in this, but quickly gave her answer.

"I… I'll go along with what you and Lelouch think is best." Edda said awkwardly before feeling she should say a little more. "I mean…I admit the prospect of dealing with anything like the Gigas is frightening, but I said I would do my best as your healer and I meant it."

"I would say we're all in agreement, then." Lelouch commented.

"Gods bless you!" Papashan gave a light graceful bow of gratitude. "I feared you might have reservations, but I assure you it is for the best."

"If we are able to talk these giants down, do you have anyone able to well… 'handle things from there'?" Kallen asked, looking at both the bespectacled lalafell and her fellow redhead.

"If you do contact me by linkpearl and I can make the arrangements." Momodi answered before looking to her fellow lalafell. "Papashan, I know you can probably get this to the sultana sooner, but we both know the Monetarists have eyes in the Sultansworn. If this works, we can't let them have an opportunity at takin' advantage of this and have history repeatin' itself with the hecatoncheires."

"You have a point there, Momodi." Papashan admitted, his thoughts briefly drifting to a particular branch of the Sultansworn before quickly returning to the topic at hand.

"I have a question, if you don't mind." Lelouch spoke and at both lalafell's affirmation. "These giants wouldn't happen to each have a hundred hands, would they?"

The odd looks he got in response to that got the former prince to flush and quickly say, "It's just there's a type of giant from stories in my homeland with the same name that are said to have that. The name even translates to 'Hundred-Handed Ones' in the language the story originated in!"

"Hmmm… if the name translates similarly here, it might be alludin' to their strength." Momodi surmised before regarding the adventurer trio. "Anyway, in case you don't know, Copperbell Mines are in western Thanalan. Do take care, you hear?"

"Will do." Kallen nodded. "Just to make sure, those are the mines near Horizon, right?" At Momodi's affirmation, she said, "Then I know where that is, I did a few jobs in that area before."

"Ah, and one last thing before you depart..." Papashan spoke as the three were getting ready to leave. "An employee of Amajina & Sons is presently at the Quicksand. The fellow's name is Painted Mesa, and he knows Copperbell Mines well. It may behoove you to seek his counsel."

After thanking the elder Sultansworn for the tip, a quick look around led them to a roegadyn man with coal gray hair wearing a bandana over the lower half of his face. The roughened brown clothing he wore was an indicator that if he wasn't the man Papashan directed them to, he probably knew him.

"Lookin' for Painted Mesa? You found him." The man said after they approached him. "So you lot are the adventurers who've volunteered to deal with the mess down in Copperbell, are you?"

"We are they." Lelouch answered in a friendly tone. "We were told you could provide us with some helpful information on the situation."

"The three o' you've got guts, mate. I just hope you've got skills to go with 'em, 'cause things ain't pretty down there." Painted Mesa commented gravely. "The hecatoncheires've left the place in a right state, and nary a week after minin' resumed. I don't know if you know this, but Copperbell was old when the second Ul Dynasty was still young, and it was abandoned centuries ago. If it hadn't been for the shortage of materials needed for the rebuildin' effort, the Concern would never have thought to reopen it."

"Wait, don't tell me they knew the giants were still down there?' Kallen asked.

"Aye. We knew full well about the giants beforehand, but the project went ahead anyway." The roegadyn mine worker answered with a bitter smile. "I mean, nothin' could possibly survive bein' buried under a mountain's worth of rock for three centuries, right? Wrong!"

The Japanese pugilist inwardly flinched, having made that reflexive assumption just minutes ago, as their information source continued.

"Our miners dug up more than they bargained for." Painted Mesa said. "One swing of the pickaxe too many, and they found 'emselves in the company of giants. Unless we can subdue 'em, the nation's glorious recovery'll grind to a halt for want of aught to build with."

"What's currently being done to keep the mine secure?" Lelouch asked. "We haven't heard anything about any giants in the area until the job was offered, so something must be keeping them down there."

"The Stone Torches're keepin' watch over the entrance in case the giants fancy some sunlight and fresh air." Painted Mesa answered. "One of 'em will be able to show you the way in. The hope of the nation's restin' on you, friends. Best of luck!"

With that, the trio left the Quicksand and made their way to the gate leading into the Western Thanlan area.

"At least you didn't ask about them having fifty heads too." Kallen commented to Lelouch lightly and seeing the curious look from the other added, "I had classes befo...back then aboutold Greek stories too."

"You didn't happen to look into that particular story because the prospect of a hundred handed giant sounded like a cool martial arts thing, did you?" The former prince asked with a raised eyebrow.

"How did you - -?!" Kallen began and her face reddened in realization. "Lucky guess…"

Lelouch was about to give a reply but wasn't able to as their new teammate spoke first.

"There are giants with a hundred hands and fifty heads?!" Edda exclaimed with a mixture of amazement and horror at the prospect of such a thing. "Just what sort of monsters are there in your homeland?"

The Earth born pair looked at each other, finding themselves not needing words to share this weird feeling of wanting to correct the brunette's misunderstanding yet also knowing that the latter part of her words wasn't entirely wrong, even if it was only in a metaphorical sense.

"It's…complicated." The former prince replied before quickly turning to Kallen. "So, which road leads to the mines?"

Western Thanlan: Copperbell Mines

Following Kallen's directions, it didn't take long for them to reach the mines. They quickly spotted the Stone Torches assigned to guard the place and approached the one who looked to be in charge.

"There's been an incident inside Copperbell Mines." The Stone Torch captain announced as the three approached him. "We are here to ensure that its effects are contained, but for your own safety, I suggest you stay well away from here."

"That may be a tad difficult to do seeing as we've taken the job to deal with said incident." Lelouch said lightly.

"We got the job from Momodi and Papashan." Kallen added.

"What? You three are the adventurers who've volunteered to quell the hecatoncheires?" The mercenary asked with surprise. "I didn't think there would be another adventuring party today nor that Papashan would be able to find someone so quickly...if at all."

" 'Another adventuring party'?" The former prince inquired. "Did someone else take this job besides us?"

"Excuse me, I believe we can answer that…" A slightly familiar female voice to Lelouch and Kallen came from the side. A look in that direction revealed the speaker to be Alianne Vellgrance with her grandfather, Isildaure following close behind, both had troubled expressions. "Grandfather and I hired Dolorous Bear and his party to escort us through this part of Thanlan and after seeing Vesper Bay we were going to stop there for the day. With that job completed, they asked around about any other jobs and were directed here."

"We'd heard they hadn't returned from whatever job they'd accepted and came here to check on them." Isildaure added. "They were a pleasant bunch, enough we'd agreed to hire them for the next part of our journey through Thanlan tomorrow. I worry the eagerness that comes with being a young new adventurer may have led to more trouble than they were ready for…"

"I'm sorry to say this, but it's been hours since they went into the mines, so I'd assume the worst." The Stone Torch said. "They may've had enough sense to reconsider rushing in after they took the job, but a lot can happen on the way down."

"We'll keep an eye out, then. If they're alive we'll find them." Lelouch said, meaning it. Rival party or not, he didn't dislike Dolorous Bear or his two companions and if nothing else saving them and ensuring their well being would only add to the reputation he was building alongside Kallen and now Edda.

"If any of them are injured I'll do my best to heal them." Edda spoke with surprising earnest in her voice, considering her earlier worries about the job. Before either of her teammates could vocally note this, the brunette turned to them. "I know their helping us get to my village was part of a job, but it was help all the same. I want to save Dolorous and his friends if we can."

"Guess we should head in and see if we can, then." Kallen suggested.

"The giants are content to wreak havoc inside the mines for now, but it's only a matter of time before they think to come outside." The Stone Torch captain commented. "The sooner you see to them, the better. Make ready as best you can and enter at will."

After the trio made a quick check of their inventory, they were about to confirm to each other that they were ready when Isildaure spoke to them.

"Pardon me, but are just the three of you going in there?" The elder elezen asked with clear concern.

"Given the job just got 'rescue mission' added to it, we can't really afford to wait around for a fourth guy to show up." Kallen pointed out before looking at Lelouch. "I'm guessing you've got some strategy for this, right?"

"Yes, though to be frank that is very likely to change depending on what we find down there." The raven-haired arcanist conceded. Despite his time in Eorzea demonstrating the truth of the saying 'No plan survives first contact with the enemy', it didn't make dealing with that fact any less irritating.

"In that case, would you mind if my granddaughter and I joined you on this? You needn't worry about pay; we just want to help." Isildaure suggested before gesturing at the axe he had at his back. "Those three were good company, and I would rather they come out of this alive."

"Indeed." Alianne nodded in agreement. "I cannot say for sure what drove an experienced crew like theirs to accept such a dangerous job so suddenly...but I do have my suspicions."

"I assume they were vocal about their desire to accomplish something more as adventurers?" Lelouch asked.

"Please tell me they didn't rush into the mines…" Kallen said to the Stone Torch captain with a sense of foreboding at that possibility.

"They almost did, but I recall them reconsidering that." The mercenary replied. "Still, they decided to go in without waiting for a fourth member, so I can't say if that prior decision was much help."

"Well, we were going to do the same." Edda commented before considering something and looked at her two new teammates. "If you feel we need to move quickly, then I…"

"Don't worry, we won't be doing that." Kallen said with a glance at Lelouch to see if she was assuming correctly.

"That's correct. I understand your concern, Edda, but we won't be any good to them if we end up in a potentially worse situation while trying to help." Lelouch said firmly before looking at the pair of elezen volunteers. "Is there anything we should know before proceeding?"

"I agree that going through the mines at a slow defensive pace is a good choice." Alianne conceded, glad this party was planning to take a more sensible approach. "If you don't mind, I have a few questions regarding our planned formation..."

Dolorous Bear was running, not just for his life but the lives of his two greatly wounded companions: E'manafa and Kikina, who he was carrying while ignoring the strain their combined weight was putting on his injured body. He only dared quick glances down at the two to make sure they were still alive; he had to get away from their pursuers and to that last lift and to the surface so they could be tended to by chirurgeons. The roegadyn swordsman inwardly kept repeating his need to get his two friends out alive so they wouldn't die due to his failing them as their leader.

Their descent into the mines had started well. He now counted taking the advice of that Doman girl, Kallen, and not rushing underground as a blessing for the tracks they followed showed a great many of the monsters had gathered before moving further down. Had they rushed in they would have run right into the gathering and been overwhelmed, but in going at a cautious pace the party had missed them.

It didn't take the adventuring trio long to encounter their first of the hecatoncheires, likely left behind as some kind of rearguard, a lone one that declared its name as Kottos before charging at them. Despite it just being the three of them, Dolorous was able to defend against the giant's blows thanks to Kikina's healing and Emanafa's trident thrusts all hit the right marks and together they were able to slay their gargantuan foe.

Further down they went, sometimes having to utilize discarded miners' explosives to clear the way, fighting their way through many different kinds of cave dwelling monsters. The most notable of the bunch had been a strange green slime that had started out gigantic but divided itself into many smaller versions of itself that they had to fight while avoiding attacks from before finally defeating it. Finally, they reached the bottom and that was where everything had gone wrong.

The first of the hecatoncheires they had fought and defeated had been a considerable foe, but the one that had smashed through the crystal laden rock wall before bearing down upon them in that great cavern had truly been deserving of the term 'giant'. The monstrous titan greatly dwarfed that earlier rearguard and instead of an axe and shield it carried a massive, spiked hammer in its right hand. That and the elaborate golden helm clearly marked this giant as the leader of the hecatoncheires that had swarmed the mine.

With a bellowing roar that he and his people would no longer be slaves, the great hecatoncheires charged forth. At first the party of three had been able to barely meet the gargantuan creature's onslaught with Dolorous doing his best to get in strikes with his sword while taking the hammer blows, Kikina healing him all the while and E'manafa did as much damage as she could with each trident thrust. That had been until the giant had turned away, ignoring the party's attacks, before proceeding to bash his great hammer on another nearby rock wall.

Within a few swings that wall crumbled to reveal what looked to be the entrance to a tunnel and was soon proven to be as another hecatoncheires emerged from it, wielding a large pickaxe and makeshift shield. This one was smaller, of similar bearing to the first Dolorous and his party had fought, yet it did not attack. With a grunt and gesture from its leader, the newly arrived giant instead charged away and to another part of the cavern where it began striking at the wall with its large pickaxe.

Dolorous knew what was coming but neither he nor either of his two party members could do anything as the leading giant resumed his attack, seeming no worse for wear despite taking multiple hits from them while summoning aid. Try as they might, any time either Dolorous or E'manafa tried to disengage to attack the lesser giant, its leader would cut them off, taking advantage of its immense size along with that of the great hammer he bore. Within seconds, the sound of rock crumbling followed by a loud crash could be heard and a quick look in that direction showed another pickaxe wielding giant emerging. A quick word passed between the lesser hecatoncheires before the first of them went to join their leader in fighting the three adventurers while the second made for another part of the cavern and began the same work its brethren had to bring forth more of its kin.

Dolorous Bear realized the only option now was to retreat before they were overwhelmed by more of the giants, for there was no way the three of them could prevent more from coming and the leading hecatoncheires was still very much in fighting shape despite the injuries taken. Unfortunately, the roegadyn swordsman had only begun to call for his teammates to retreat when the first of the lesser hecatoncheires suddenly changed its direction and charged at Kikina.

The giant swung its pickaxe at the lalafell conjurer, who instinctively brought up her cane in an attempt to block the strike. Doing so saved the blonde Dunesfolk lalafell from the pointed end of the large improvised weapon, but as the strike rendered her weapon to splinters the dull part of the oversized mining tool still caught her and sent her flying a short distance back to land hard on the rocky floor.

Neither Dolorous or E'manafa had time to cry out to their downed friend as the leading hecatoncheires made his strike as well, bringing the great hammer to bear upon the redheaded miqo'te lancer, seeing her as the main source of his wounds. E'manafa made to dodge while trying to take a defensive stance, and while it saved her from being smashed to a pulp, she still took a glancing blow from the titanic weapon. The great force behind the swing was enough to break the one eyed miqo'te's trident and the injuries she took from said blow were enough to knock her out. E'manafa collapsed in a heap alongside the remnants of her polearm that dropped from her limp hands.

As the greater hecatoncheires lifted his hammer to deal the finishing blow, which Dolorous saw along with the lesser one bearing down on Kikina to do the same, the green haired roegadyn made a desperate gamble to save them. He hurled his sword at the unprotected back of the lesser hecatoncheires, hoping the bladed end would hit, before making a dash to where E'manafa lay. He quickly knelt to bring his miqo'te companion up while his other arm swung up to intercept the coming blow.

Dolorous grit his teeth as he felt and heard his shield shatter and while the pain of enduring that great hammer strike was expected, it didn't make him feel it shooting through his arm any lesser. The sound of a pain filled bellow further ahead signaling that the roegadyn swordsman's throw had hit its mark, combined with the groan from E'manafa revealing she was still alive was enough to give him the resolve to keep going. Doing the best he could to gently but quickly get the redhead lancer over his shoulder before the hecatoncheires leader could attack again, Dolorous ran for where Kikina was. He felt a brief sense of relief at seeing the lalafell conjurer's attacker had dropped its pickaxe and was preoccupied trying to remove the sword sticking in its back, followed by another relieving sight: Kikina was moving in an attempt to get up.

Dolorous Bear ignored the pain running through his free arm as he bent to pick up the blonde lalafell, only for whatever relief he had felt at his successful rescue attempt to be abruptly broken as he felt something slam into him from behind. The sudden impact nearly knocked him over and it was only because of his bent position and sheer luck that E'manafa hadn't been struck too. Mentally pushing aside the new source of hurt erupting around his back, the roegadyn swordsman focused on getting a firm hold on Kikina and then running for the way they had come into the cavern.

That was almost immediately proven to be the right decision as Dolorous heard a loud crashing sound right behind him as he began running. A brief glance behind showed the green haired roegadyn that, plus what had struck him, had been a large rock for there were now three of the lesser hecatoncheires. One of them was helping the one that had been wounded by the thrown sword, while the other began picking up stones and throwing them at the retreating adventurers.

Yet the most terrifying sight that the roegadyn swordsman saw was that of leading giant as he began bounding towards them, hammer raised. Dolorous Bear put all his energy into running as fast as possible, knowing his life and that of both his teammates depended on it. He paid no mind of the crashing stones landing so dangerously close as he continued his desperate charge for their only chance at safety.

It took the roegadyn swordsman seconds to reach the entranceway, but to him both the time and distance felt so much longer. He wanted to stop to catch his breath as he finally passed into the passageway too small for the giants to follow, but the enraged cries followed by furious pounding upon the rocks behind were a clear indication that he should not stay even a second longer. He did not want to see if the furious giants had it in them to break through gods knew how many feet of solid stone to get to the targets of their ire.

Dolorous Bear was brought back to the present by the strained voice of E'manafa as she repeated his name, trying to get his attention. Not daring to slow down until they were out of the mines, he still felt compelled to give some kind of reply to the eyepatched miqo'te. He waited until they were at the bridge, and he actually needed to slow down so he could safely carry his injured teammates across before doing so.

"It'll be all right, E'manafa." The roegadyn swordsman forced out his best attempt at reassurance, and noticing Kikina's breathing had started to become heavier, made to include the lalafell conjurer. "Stay with us, Kikina! We're almost to the elevator. Once we're outside, I…"

A loud crashing sound came from ahead, just then when the three unfortunate adventurers had reached the other side. That interrupted Dolorous' reply as he looked in that direction and the sight stopped all thought of continuing his words came to a halt as he did. Near where the three of them had vanquished that first hecatoncheires, Kottos, a hole had been audibly made and out strode its makers. The three hecatoncheires from the floor below had somehow found a way up that was quicker and had just cut them off from their way to the elevator. Their only way to the safety of the surface.

Dolorous Bear felt his heart sink, but remembering his companions he turned around hoping to cross the bridge. Perhaps he could get them across and cut away the bridge to bring it down and they could wait for rescue and… the realization he no longer had his sword hit the green haired roegadyn as he stumbled in his sudden turn. He immediately tried to regain his footing, trying not to look at the trio of giants bearing down towards them, but he could feel the creeping thoughts of regret and frustration at himself for dooming his two dearest friends through his own foolish choice to take this job so hastily.

The hecatoncheires nearest to them gave a great cry then and the sound of its approaching feet could be heard. Dolorous Bear closed his eyes as he braced himself mentally with hopes that the armor he wore might be enough that he could shield his companions so they could survive, even though a part of him knew that was only wishful thinking… yet no blow came. There was only the sound of metal striking against something, followed by the frustrated growls of the attacking giant.

The green haired roegadyn opened his eyes and found that standing in between them and facing the hecatoncheireswas a three tailed blue foxlike creature. The foremost of the giants was pounding its pickaxe against a glowing blue barrier that the blue creature appeared to be projecting given its guarded stance. Suddenly the barrier shattered under the next blow, but before the giant could follow up with another attack, the foxlike creature changed color from blue to red and a gout of fire burst forth to engulf all three of the hecatoncheires in flame.

"That's the signal!" A familiar older man's voice called out before a small aetheric axe came flying from behind the burned, yet still active trio of giants, and struck the one closest to Dolores Bear and his party. Said giant roared in anger as it turned to face this new attacker.

Isildaure Vellgrance charged forward and with a powerful overarching swing of his great axe, cut into all three of the hecatoncheires, getting their attention and drawing them to him. Meanwhile, further back, Alianne cast what to Lelouch looked to be the more advanced version of the Thunder spell as it extended to strike all three of the giants before casting the second version of the Fire spell that also struck foes enmasse. The former prince quickly returned his attention to the battle as he cast his own spells into the approaching enemy. While keeping an eye on Isildaure so as to be ready to heal him when needed, Edda cast Aero followed by Stone at the lead attacking giant. As that was going, Kallen made her way to the side of said giant and began the combo of Bootshine, True Strike then Snap Punch.

As the leader of the three hecatoncheires uttered a loud groan as it toppled over under the constant sources of attack, Lelouch fought the urge to grin as he saw the attack plan that he'd come up with and discussed with the other four was going well. Having expected an encounter with a group of these giants, plus taking into account Dolorous Bear and his party would at best be needing reinforcements, the plan was to get the enemy's attention with a series of group attacks from himself, Isildaure and Alianne. Kallen was to attack the one that was injured the most from her teammates' opening onslaught with Edda assisting with her own singular attack spells when she didn't need to cast any healing spells. From there the two would apply that focused attack to the next giant.

Meanwhile, Dolorous Bear couldn't help but feel a great sense of relief wash over him as the remaining two hecatoncheires were dispatched by their rescuers' combined assault. That relief gave way to a wave of pain to make the roegadyn swordsman aware of the injuries he'd taken from the unsuccessful fight with the hecatoncheires' leader coupled with the toll of fleeing their late pursuers while carrying his two teammates. He felt his knees start to buckle but through sheer will was able to remain standing as he did not wantto causing further injury to E'manafa or Kikina.

As their team finished putting an end to the hostile hecatoncheires, Lelouch noticed Dolorous Bear's near stumble and turned to Edda.

"Edda, see to their injuries, I'll join you in just a moment." The former prince ordered to which the brunette gave a quick affirmation before doing so. He then turned to the regard the others. Kallen was clearly uninjured, and Alianne had gone over to Isildaure, who had taken a moment to catch his breath once the fighting had concluded.

"We're both fine." Alianne said, having noticed the raven haired arcanist's gaze. "Grandfather just needs a moment to regain his breath."

"A sign of time being a worse adversary than these giants." The elderly elezen admitted with a sigh.

"Hey, you took point in fighting three giants." Kallen pointed in an attempt to be reassuring. "That's impressive regardless of age." She then stopped and turned to her Britannian associate. "You should help Edda out with the healing, we'll be along with the potions in minute."

Lelouch nodded and headed over to join their healer, taking a moment to switch to his conjurer equipment so he could provide more than just the light healing spell Physick could do. After a few minutes, the conjurer pair were able to get the unlucky trio healed enough to safely move them, but doing so provided them both with a reminder of the limits of their current skills in the healing arts. Aside from the tiring effects of such extensive casting, it wasn't enough to fully heal their fellow adventurers. E'manafa and Kikina had clearly taken the worst in whatever fight their party had fled from and even after all the healing magic used on them they needed help being moved. The former prince suspected their efforts were probably enough to get those two out of danger.

"You all came down here to save us…" Dolorous Bear, who had opted to take potions so his party members could be focused on for the more effective magic, said after hearing a summary of what had happened above. "You have my gratitude… more than you could know…"

"Well, as Edda pointed out, 'one good turn deserves another'." Lelouch replied quickly in reflexive to the other's gratitude, and upon remembering Kallen's observation from a few days ago mentally justified it as necessary to better the reputation of himself and his party. In fact, including Edda in the statement would help normalize her being seen as part of the team. "In any case, we should get you and your people out of this mine and to the chirugeons."

"I can help with carrying…" The reogadyn swordsman began.

"Hold it, Dolorous, you're not doing anything to get yourself reinjured." Kallen spoke. "Let's just focus on getting you guys fully healed, alright?"

The green haired roegadyn looked like he was about to object, only to lower his head.

"You're right, I…" Dolorous' gaze went to E'manafa and Kikina and a look of shame came across his face before he sighed. "I've done enough…"

Kallen noticed the other's expression, and briefly considered how she'd seen Naoto address members of the cell unable to do anything to do anything due to injury or illness.

"Look, if you really want to help, just give us a run down on what we're going to run into when our team heads back down here." The Japanese pugilist offered. "You can tell us when we get back up."

"A good idea." Lelouch commented. "It's clear whatever you three ran into was at the very least tough, so the slightest detail could be important."

Dolorous Bear relented and with that the group made their way back to the elevator. As the large wooden contraption brought them back up, Kallen couldn't help but notice that while the green haired roegadyn wasn't as crestfallen as before, he still looked troubled, especially when looking at his two companions and that expression mixed with one of obvious worry for their wellbeing.

Nearly an hour had passed from their return to the surface and subsequent call for the rescued party to be taken to the chirugeons of Ul'dah before the help came. During that time, while also seeing to E'manafa and Kikina's comfort, Dolorous told Lelouch, Kallen and Edda of what he and his party had encountered in the mines all the way to their fight with the greater hecatoncheires that was unquestionably Gyges. The information the roegadyn swordsman provided was indeed valuable and Lelouch was already considering the best way to deal with hecatoncheires' leader in combat, but that exposed a problem. Mainly that this would undoubtedly require a four-man team and he wasn't sure if Isildaure would be the best fit even with backup from Alianne for if the aged adventurer were to falter under that fierce an opponent they would very likely end up in a similar situation as the party they just rescued.

Fortunately, the solution to the problem came with the medical assistance. A representative of the Chirugeons' guild came escorted by some Brass Blades, and two of them were ones Kallen recognized as she warmly greeted them. An unusual sight for Lelouch as he was well aware of the redhead's disdain for the guards of Ul'dah aside from some rare exceptions. Apparently these two were among them. The first was a young blue haired lalafell who appeared to be in charge of the escort given his uniform marked him as a captain and the other was an older hyur man whose hair was a mix of black and blonde with a mutton chops. Kallen introduced them as Fufulupa, Acting Captain of the Brass Blades of the Rose, and Leofric respectively.

"So, you're the adventurer from Limsa Lominsa that Kallen's teamed up with. It's a pleasure to meet you, Lelouch." Fufulupa said to the raven-haired archanist in a friendly voice.

"I would say the same, Fufulupa, Kallen has mentioned you before." The former prince replied in a tone that was a well practiced mix of amiable and gracious. After shaking the lalafell captain's hand, he then made a gesture at Edda while subtly glancing at Kallen. "Also, you should meet our party's healer."

After Kallen finished introducing Edda to the two non-corrupt Brass Blades, Fufulupa made a sudden proposal.

"Given what I've been informed of concerning the situation in the mines, it's clear that the hecatoncheires' goal is to get to the surface and that needs to be stopped lest the settlements around Vesper Bay end up the first in their wrathful path." The acting captain said. "If you like I can accompany your party down there; Ca- Leofric can escort the wounded to Ul'dah and be ready to receive a call from me if more aid from the Brass Blades of the Rose are needed."

"Pardon my asking, but wouldn't it make more sense for you to be doing the escort and Leofric accompanying us?" Lelouch asked.

"Given the situation, having our company's best go down with you is the better choice." The mutton-chopped guardsman answered and seeing Fufulupa's face redden slightly at that added, "I'm not just saying this because I trained you, Captain; you held your own well alongside Kallen when dealing with our former captain." He then turned back to the adventurer trio. "Also, I take it those adventurers you all saved are friends of yours?"

"More or less." Kallen replied. "Rival team or not, we weren't just gonna leave them to die. "

After Lelouch and Edda said similar, Leofric nodded.

"Then I'll make sure to put in a word with some people I know among the chirugeons." The senior Brass Blade said. "Two of the three from that party will need some serious treatments before they'll be ready to do any adventuring work again, and I'm sure I can arrange it that they won't be left desperate for gil afterwards."

"Why am I not surprised that would be a problem in Ul'dah?" Kallen grumbled.

"The monetarist faction has been trying to get at least one filthy finger in everything in Thanlan." Leofric said with a sigh. "Fortunately, they haven't fully gotten a grasp of the chirugeons yet. One reason being the ones that do try taking advantage of those they heal usually have to use their ill gotten gil to pay for protection or end up in need of a chirugeon themselves."

"Or require the final services of the thaumaturges guild?" Lelouch added in question, to which the senior Brass Blade nodded with a bitter smile. The former prince then turned to his teammates. "That reminds me, given the strength of this Gyges that we've been informed of, I think it might be best if I switch over to my thaumaturge equipment. The slightly stronger spells may make the difference in bringing our opponent down since it looks like combat won't be avoidable…"

"If you think it'll help…" Kallen replied. "You sure you've got as good a handle on those spells as you do the summoning stuff?"

"I wouldn't be considering it as an alternative if I didn't, would I?" Lelouch asked with a raised eyebrow as he prepared to make the change before their descent.

Meanwhile, as the adventuring party above were settling things before preparing to reenter the mines, Gyges the Great was doing his best not to lash out at the lesser hecatoncheires before him as he suddenly found his leadership questioned. A difficult task on account of bearing with the wounds the enslavers' pathetic soldiers had inflicted before fleeing coupled with his frustration at the death of his best warriors and most ardent supporters. He knew the latter to be true for they had not returned nor gave answer to any calls out to them.

"You cannot do this!" The lesser hecatoncheires shouted his objection in their language. ""

"Know your place, Briareus! King Ouranos gave me the authority to do what was necessary to get us out of this prison and to freedom!" Gyges bellowed. "all those who would dare have us enthralled again!"

"You would trust the words of the shadowless?!" Briareus demanded. ""

"I need not be advised of my duties by a glorified nursemaid!" The other roared back in a mixture of frustration and contempt. ""

Briareus said nothing, though his stiffened posture and sharp intake of breath at the insult made his displeasure clear. With a glare that could be seen even through his horned mask, the lesser hecatoncheires turned and walked away. Gyges watched him go, likely to make council with the rest of that pitiful bunch who thought that just because they guarded the young and their mothers that made them anywhere close to being their people's warriors, before heading to the tomb and entering.

The sound of stone being shattered could be heard coming from the inside and minutes later Gyges emerged from the tomb, carrying the hammer he wielded in battle with one hand and a hammer of equal size but having a far more ornate design. The latter hammer had been wielded by the aforementioned Sethlans.

Gyges' path soon took him to a chamber where the remains of a well-used forge stood. The most prominent feature though, was a metal pedestal that featured a large glowing crystal atop it. Long ago, that crystal had shined with a brighter glow that would fill out into the corridor the hecatoncheires war leader had come in from, but now its luster was barely enough to light the chamber. Gyges gazed at both the forge and crystal, once an enduring symbol of hope for the hecatoncheires even after its master had passed, but now reduced to a last resort for their survival.

"It isn't enough." A male voice spoke from behind the giant as he stepped towards the pedestal.

Gyges turned to see a robed elezen man with dark skin, white hair that was smoothly combed backwards and a finely trimmed mutton chops beard.

"If you wish to bring Sethlans forth to save your people, then that crystal does not have enough aether." The newcomer stated in an advisory tone, all spoken perfectly in the language of the hecatoncheires with no hint of even an accent. Something the other couldn't help but find unsettling to behold for how strange it was to him.

"Are you one of the shadowless?!" The giant gripped his main hammer tightly in preparation to use it if he had to. "And how would you know?"

"I am, and as for your second question: it's because I am the one who gave Sethlans that crystal, of course." The mysterious elezen then gave a formal bow. "I am Travanchet, friend and bringer of gifts to those who need them."

"I see…" Gyges paused to consider the being in front of him. While the stories of how Sethlans had acquired the crystal mentioned a gift giver who had no shadow, it only made this newcomer more suspicious in his eyes on account of the convenience and the ultimate fate of their hero. ""

"In a manner of speaking." Travanchet answered. ""

"What will need to be done?" The leading giant asked, doing his best not to sound too intrigued. The prospect of Sethlans returning to fight alongside his people was a tempting one, but despite his rebuffing of Briareus, he ultimately did agree the shadowless were untrustworthy.

"Aether is present in many things, including the living." The Ascian explained. ""

"You can keep your accursed ritual!" Gyges thundered angrily. ""

"That crystal was never intended for that use; Sethlans figured that out on his own and thus the negative effects." Travanchet said, unbothered by the other's reproach. ""

"nd what hidden price would that have had?" The hecatoncheires leader asked before giving a heavy sigh. ""

Travanchet was silent for a moment before finally replying with a look of interest at the other.

"As you wish. It's a simpler version of the ritual I was to show you anyway." The Ascian smiled. ""

(For my people's freedom…) Gyges thought to himself as he prepared to hear Travanchet's words.

Following the way Dolorous Bear's party had gone down wasn't too difficult for most of the way. Aside from about half of it being a clear path, there were signs of the less fortunate party's passage even after the path started to be less conventional, which were mainly from signs of explosives being used to clear blocked passages. It was in the later parts, where the path moved into what had, until recently, been unexplored caverns where passage was a little harder on account of some the cave creatures giving some trouble, but Fufulupa's skill with sword and shield was more than enough to keep the various monsters distracted enough for a combination of Lelouch's spells and Kallen's fists to bring them down while Edda kept the party healed.

Soon they came to the large cavern Dolorous Bear had described, but there was no sign of any of the hecatoncheires save for the holes in the rock walls made during the battle. Yet before the party could begin to discuss this, there came a loud rumbling sound from within the largest of the holes and the cavern seemed to tremble as it echoed, followed by another and then another with similar effect yet the noise became louder each time. A sound of heavy breathing could soon be heard accompanying the sounds, and it soon became apparent to each of the party that what they were hearing was the sound of something large approaching.

Within minutes, the large imposing figure of a hecatoncheires emerged from the hole and judging by the description they had been given along with the giant being of greater size than the ones they'd fought while rescuing Dolorous Bear and his party, Lelouch and Kallen were each fairly certain this was the giants' leader: Gyges the Great. Yet, there was a difference from the description they were told, for the giant was carrying a hammer in each hand: one was the spiked one that had been described and the other was of a more innate design and had a large glowing crystal stuck into its haft.

The greater giant's gaze immediately locked onto the new group that had come down to challenge him. These new agents of the oppressors above would be the first to fall righteous wrath long overdue for them.

"SLAVES NO MORE! FREE! FREE!" Gyges the Great gave a war cry as he held the two hammers aloft. "FALL BEFORE RIGHTEOUS HAMMER OF SETHLANS!"

The light from crystal on the other hammer intensified and flooded the room, temporarily blinding Lelouch and his party. Their vision quickly cleared and the giant standing before them now held what looked to be a war hammer of similar design to the one that bore the crystal, and the weapon glowed with a similar light to the aforementioned jewel.

"MASTERS MUST PAY! MASTERS MUST DIE!" Gyges roared as the faint outline of what looked to be an even larger hecatoncheires emanated around him, and he gripped the haft of the glowing war hammer with both hands to wield it "NEVER AGAIN! NEVER!"

Both Lelouch and Kallen saw a large glowing orange circle appear beneath them and was more than large enough to contain the whole party. The Earth born pair knew this was the tell of a coming attack and didn't waste time.

"Scatter!" Lelouch and Kallen shouted in almost unison, with the redhead adding a "Now!" to her warning.

The former prince turned to Edda, as she was closer to him and make a quick gesture to follow him, which the brunette did. Lelouch was prepared to pull her along in case she wasn't able to move fast enough, but to his relief she was keeping up with him. At the same time, Kallen did similar with Fufulupa and the lalafell captain, through a mix of trust for his friend and his own physical ability, was able to match the redhead's pace.

Meanwhile, Gyges the Great had leaped into the air and brought the supernaturally enhanced Hammer of Sethlans down where he had seen the party standing with all the strength he could muster. The hammer slammed into the rock ground with enough force to form a small crater around where it struck, causing the cavern to rumble around its occupants.

Steadying himself, Lelouch noticed with relief that not only had none of his other teammates had fallen, but there was no sign of an impending cave in. He felt a brief moment of second guessing as to whether switching to his thaumaturge equipment and trading the archanists' defensive spells for the former's more powerful ones was the right idea, but just quickly quashed those thoughts. The choice had been made based on the information they'd been given, and the only way out alive now was to find a way to make the best with them.

A quick look in the direction of Gyges the Great showed the giant was slowly getting to his feet with heavy breaths. The glowing war hammer he bore showed some wounds on his body that had opened and were bleeding. These were likely the ones Dolorous Bear and his teammates had been able to inflict, and it seemed whatever power the hecatoncheires' leader had gained in between fights, it didn't grant healing to its user.

"I'll handle him from the front!" Fufulupa declared to Lelouch and Kallen.

"And we'll flank!" Kallen called back with a glance to her Britannian associate, who gave a quick nod.

The former prince quickly looked at Edda.

"After you cast Aero, keep an eye on Fufulupa for now." He gave quick instruction to the other. "That hammer will probably do more damage than your typical weapon, so concentrate on healing him unless the giant turns on us."

"I understand." The brunette conjurer nodded before proceeding to cast Aero and moved to get to a position where her healing spells were within range Fufulupa but also close enough that she could switch to healing her other two teammates.

As Fufulupa struck Gyges with his sword, Lelouch cast Thunder on the giant, so as to go along with the brief series of elemental damage from Edda's Aero, before casting Fire on his foe. Kallen came at the giant from behind and began the pugilist's standard combo with Bootshine.

The empowered hecatoncheires groaned under the combined attacks before lashing out with a swing at Fufulupa. The acting Brass Blade captain brought his shield up and while able to block it, despite his small size, grunted under the strong blow. The strain of taking the attack, however, quickly vanished as Edda's Cure spell quickly began to heal him.

After enduring another wave of attacks from the adventuring party, Gyges began to bring the Hammer of Sethlans for a greater swing, intending to strike out at all his foes around him. Fortunately, for them, the tell for it came to Lelouch and Kallen in the form of orange light that enveloped the entire cavern save for a small circle around the giant.

"Edda, we need to move in close to the giant and fast!" Lelouch called out to the conjurer, who nodded and followed him as he made his way to their massive foe. Kallen could be heard shouting similar warning to Fufulupa as he did so, and within seconds the four had converged around Gyges the Great.

That movement had been just in time as the hecatoncheires leader made his great swing. The hammer tore through air and rock alike, and Lelouch, Kallen, Edda and Fufulupa felt the great rush of wind generated by the gigantic swing. Fortunately this gave an opening that each took advantage of: Lelouch switched to casting the Blizzard spell to attack and regain the energy needed to cast more spells through its Umbral Ice affect, followed by the opportunity to instantly cast Lightning that followed. Kallen alternated between strikes to gain more chakra charges through the Meditate technique, Edda used the time to cast the Stone spell at their foe and Fufulupa struck the giant with his sword.

Gyges the Great let out a roar of pain mixed with frustration at this surprising persistence from these newly arrived invaders. The giant leader then decided enough was enough; it would take more from him than he had expected for this fight but it would put an end to the four and give him time to recover his strength for the inevitable charge to the surface. Taking a steadfast pose, Gyges the Great held the great Hammer of Sethlans up and began to gather the aether needed to unleash its power.

As this happened, both Lelouch and Kallen saw the orange tell for the upcoming attack, only it filled the entire cavern with no visible safe zone free of the orange glow. A fiery aura began to glow around the warhammer held by the greater hecatoncheires and it was beginning to spread around its wielder.

"Do either of you have any defensive spells?" Kallen asked, looking at both Lelouch and Edda.

"No…" The former prince gritted his teeth as his earlier regret had come back and now in a situation where defensive magic was desperately needed.

"I…don't know any either…" A look of both regret and apprehension was showing on Edda's face as she answered.

Lelouch was about to suggest an all-out attack with hopes of somehow stopping the giant before he could complete whatever attack he was charging up.

"I think I can block it!" Fufulupa declared, getting his three teammates' attention. "I've only trained to do this, but it should be enough to block whatever that one's preparing to unleash. Please get right behind me!"

The three adventurers followed the blue haired lalafell's instruction, and the moment they did Fufulupa held his shield forward towards the now glowing figure of Gyges the Great. An audible rushing sound came as the acting Brass Blade captain's shield gave a flash before a gigantic tower shield appeared in front of him.

The shield's appearance was well timed, as Gyges let out a battle cry and for a moment that outline of an even larger hecatoncheires became opaquer and showed a hecatoncheires of titanic proportions wearing a great horned helm and his face obscured by a long braided white beard combined with equally long braided hair. The gigantic figure, looming large enough for the party to see even from behind the tower shield, then vanished as the entire cavern was set aglow by a fiery explosion.

Fufulupa grunted as he felt the heat and force of the supernatural inferno clash against the great tower shield he had summoned, but the shield wall held, protecting him and his three companions from the blast of aetheric fire. Seconds later, the conflagration ceased and the cavern rapidly cooled, and as it did, the tower shield faded away.

With all that cleared away, Gyges the Great was revealed to be standing where he had unleashed his fiery attack, albeit barely. The giant was hunched over and now using the hammer he had seconds ago been wielding effortlessly to support himself. It was only for a moment as the greater hecatoncheires gave a great intake of breath as he noticed his foes were still very much alive and unharmed by the power he'd called upon.

Their gigantic foe uttered a snarl as he forced himself up and tried lifting the war hammer to bear, but the party made their move first, not wanting to chance that he could use that same attack again. In almost unison, Lelouch cast Fire while Edda cast Stone, Fufulupa threw his shield and Kallen charged forward and used the chakra she had gathered throughout the battle to unleash Steel Peak on hecatoncheires leader. Gyges the Great stiffened as he took the combined attacks before toppling over with a final groan and dropping the Hammer of Sethlans. Within seconds the hammer gave a final shine before it began crumbling away into a metallic sand and a dark aura of energy emerged from the fallen hecatoncheires' body before it suddenly dispersed in a sudden burst and it all faded away into nothingness.

For a moment, the party was silent as they took in the defeat of Gyges the Great. Finally, Kallen broke the silence.

"Thanks for using that thing with the shield, Fufulupa." The redhead said. "You really saved our necks with that."

"You're welcome." Fufulupa replied before cocking his head to the side with a curious look at his adventurer friend. "Have you ever used a Limit Break before?"

"Not really…but I think I may have heard the name mentioned before." Kallen answered as she tried to remember if it had been Chuchuto or Hamon that had and what they had said.

"What is a Limit Break?" Edda asked.

"It's some sort of technique or spell one can pull off by drawing on some sort of energy that accumulates over time during a prolonged battle." Lelouch answered. "I've only read a little bit about it and haven't had time to attempt putting it to use. The only other thing I know is it's derived from a different energy source than aether and requires great concentration to use."

"That's the gist of it." Fufulupa nodded. "Also, it takes at least four people working together for the process to even start. Like I said before, this is the first time I've used it outside of training, so you should probably talk to one of your guildmasters for better instruction."

"Given the magnitude of the attack you were able to block, I'll be doing just that." Lelouch commented, mentally reproaching himself for only giving the barest consideration to a potentially powerful area of magic. He also fought the urge to get ahead of himself and imagine what the final look on Charles zi Britannia's face would be as the son he cast off called down some great catastrophic spell right on his self-important head.

"Same, helps that I need to stop by the Pugilists' guild later anyway." Kallen commented, mentally kicking herself for ignoring what was potentially a way to pull off what was basically a super move from a shonen battle anime or manga. She also fought the urge to get ahead of herself and imagine how horrified the Britannians would be at the sight of their knightmare frames getting destroyed by said super move, especially since it would be done by someone who wasn't even in a knightmare frame.

"I'll get to the Conjurers' guild the first chance I am able." Edda said dutifully, hoping she'd be able to successfully pull off such a spell when it was needed. A thought then came to her and she turned to the raven haired thaumaturge. "Though, if you're going to do so as well, I could go with you if that's more convenient, S-Lelouch."

"All in good time, Edda." The former prince gave the other a nod. He was about to consider what the next course of action would be, when he heard a sound from the hole that Gyges had emerged from prior to their fight.

A look in that direction showed a normal sized hecatoncheires stepping out. This newly arrived giant had similar dressing and weapons to the others of his size that Lelouch, Kallen and Edda had fought when rescuing Dolorous Bear and his party, only they were of a noticeably lesser condition.

"Gyges is dead…you killed him." The hecatoncheires newcomer stated in a heavily accented common tongue similar to his aformentioned late leader before tightly gripping his axe. "You will go no further! Our people not yours to take!"

As the giant took a defensive stance, but made no move to advance, Lelouch and Kallen looked at each other.

"Do you think this one might be willing to talk?" The former prince asked in a lowered voice.

"He's not charging at us, so it might be the best chance we've got." The Japanese pugilist answered, in a similar volume. "You mind if I start?"

"You've been in Ul'dah longer than I have." Lelouch shrugged.

"Yeah, but…" Kallen was hesitant to admit that might not count for much in this situation. "Look, I'll admit I haven't done anything like this before. Can you back me up just in case?"

"Certainly, I don't want this opportunity to fail any more than you do, Kallen." The ex-royal turned adventurer replied.

With that, Kallen turned to the guarding hecatoncheires and called out, "Wait! Can we talk?"

There was a slight change in the giant's posture as he heard this, likely because he wasn't expecting it, but he remained no less guarded.

"Talk? Why?" The giant inquired. "You have attacked before, why the change?"

"That was only because we were trying to rescue our friends." Kallen answered. "The giants we fought and Gyges didn't really give us any chance to talk."

"But allies you came for also attacked, can you speak for them?" The other's replying question had an edge to it.

Kallen could guess going further with the 'we don't want to fight' angle wasn't going to work as even she would admit recent events would make that hard to believe, so she glanced back at Lelouch, who gave a subtle nod and stepped forward, so he was standing alongside her.

"My apologies, there is a question I must ask you, but I would imagine you would like to be addressed by name first." The former prince spoke in a formal, yet polite tone. "I am Lelouch Lamperouge, one of this humble group of adventurers. To whom are my companions and I addressing?"

The hecatoncheires was silent for a moment before answering, in a less harsh voice than before, "Briareus, chief guard for mothers and children. If rest of you give names, I will hear question."

After Kallen, Edda and Fufulupa each gave their quick introductions, Briareus gave a nod at Lelouch.

"Do you know how long your people have been trapped below these mines?" The former prince asked.

"Not trapped, imprisoned." The giant growled. "The answer is years. Too many to count."

"One more question, if you would permit." Lelouch gave what he hoped the other would see as a sympathetic look. "Fair warning, this may be one you won't like to hear."

"Ask." Briareus said.

"What was the name of those ruling Ul'dah when the imprisonment happened?"

That question had the effect Lelouch had thought it would as Briareus bristled as he heard it and the rumbling growl that came from behind his mask was as good an indicator of his anger as if it had been off.

"It is name we all remember: Thorne." The giant snarled as he said the name. "Like wretched plants that sting!"

"Would it relieve you, then, to know that your jailers are dead?" The former prince asked in reply.

"Dead?" The movement around the eye holes of Briareus' mask indicated his surprise. "When?"

"Many years now; you all have been down here for centuries." Lelouch answered. "In fact, the Thorne dynasty has not been in power in Ul'dah in over three hundred years."

"Centuries…" The shock was evident in the giant's voice before he shook his head in clear disbelief. "You have proof of this? That this is no trick?"

"He's telling the truth." Fufulupa spoke. "The Ul family rule Ul'dah and the current ruler is Sultana Nanamo Ul Namo."

"If leaders above have changed, then why send down warriors to attack?" Briareus demanded.

"The guys that ran into your people down here first were just mine workers." Kallen pointed out. "I'm sorry to say this, but given how much time has passed and most people not living as long as you do, not very many people even know you're down here."

For a moment, Briareus said nothing before lowering his head and giving a deep, rumbling sigh.

"So, he listened to the shadowless' words for nothing…" The hecatoncheires guard uttered in a language the four didn't recognize before turning his attention to the party. "If you not come to kill or enslave us, then what you want?"

"Ideally, to resolve this without further bloodshed, but that ultimately depends on the answer to this question." Lelouch replied. "What do you and your people want?"

"You say those above who enslaved us are dead… if true then we want depart this accursed land and return to land of our birth." Briareus answered. "If your words prove true, grant us passage, then our king will treat with you."

After an uneventful trek back to the surface, a linkpearl was used to contact Momodi directly and the lalafell guildmaster received a brief summary of what happened. After informing the party that arrangements would need to be made to negotiate with the giants, apparently two specialists were being called to help with that, it was decided that the Lelouch, Kallen and Edda would return to the Quicksand to report their job as complete while Fufulupa would wait at the mines with a few of his unit of Brass Bladesfor those picked to handle the negotiations.

"In a matter such as this, it does make sense to involve the professionals, I suppose." Lelouch commented as the three of them prepared to return to Ul'dah via teleportation.

"And with Momodi helping to arrange it, hopefully the right people are involved." Kallen said before turning to Edda and gave the brunette a gentle clap on the shoulder. "You ask me, Edda, you did great for our first official job together."

"Thank you, Kallen." Edda's face reddened at the praise. "Though I really only went along with Lelouch's instructions…"

"And the results speak for themselves." The raven-haired magic user spoke. "We managed to save Dolorous and his teammates and following that defeated the hecatoncheires' lead warrior without any casualties on our end. That couldn't have been accomplished without the aid of a talented healer."

Not used to being complimented by teammates, the brunette conjurer's face reddened to the point it reminded both Earth born adventurers of a certain orangette back in their world, before lowering her head with the brim of her conjurer's hat hiding her face. Fortunately for her, neither Lelouch nor Kallen were interested in even slightly imitating their student council president and left things at that after their healer stammered her thanks.

Just before they left, Kallen remembered the chat she and Lelouch had with Milala back in Limsa Lominsa and made sure to mention to Fufulupa about the Yellowjacket captain's interest in meeting him. The acting Brass Blade Captain was surprised at this, but said he would at the very least send an introductory letter to Milala the first chance he got as he was curious to interact with the captain of another guard unit in another city state. With that the party proceeded back to Ul'dah.

?: ?

"Hmph. As expected of an incomplete summoning." The red masked Ascian gave a derisive snort after hearing from Travanchet, who was bowed opposite of him after giving the report. "Are you certain that you did enough in your attempt to convince that creature to fully summon a primal?"

"My apologies, but it proved to be as adamant as its predecessor." Travanchet replied. "Still, given it would have summoned said predecessor if the necessary aether was present then and there, I question how effective the primal would have been. It is possible its gods may have been forgotten…" A bitter and weary expression came across his elezen face. "Though I suppose that is the way of this wretched world: everything important is either forgotten or distorted beyond recognition…"

"Enough!" The red masked Ascian commanded. "Time voicing your dissatisfaction with what Hydaelyn has done is time better spent to our goal of undoing it. What can you tell me of where her newest chosen hail from?"

"At the moment, little aside from information that has likely become outdated." The other conceded. "Something is interfering with the way there, and it was not present the last few times I checked when its denizens' activity warranted attention. Was anything like that present when…?"

"No, there was nothing like that during his evaluations." The red masked Ascian lowered his head slightly in contemplation before returning his attention to Travanchet. "Keep monitoring that, and if the way shows any signs of clearing, inform me immediately. Unless another of your 'gifts' reemerges, leave matters of this shard to me and the Chalices."

Ul'dah

The three returned to Ul'dah and proceeded to the Quicksand, only to find Momodi preoccupied with some people at her desk. Whether it was concerning the aftermath of the job they'd completed was unclear as they weren't close enough to the desk, but before any of the party could move closer, a familiar voice called out to them.

"Ah, the conquerors of Copperbell return!" Painted Mesa called out to the trio from where they had met with him prior to the job. His tone was noticeably more jovial compared to then. "Thanks to you, our minin' operations will be resumin' soon, and Ul'dah will have the materials she needs to rebuild. The entire nation's in your debt, friends."

"I'm surprised you don't mind the work not starting immediately." Kallen commented.

"We'd 'ave needed time to prepare to resume the minin' anyway on account o' getting' our tools and equipment repaired or replaced." Painted Mesa explained. " 'Least this way those of us that got injured can have some time to heal and once the giants leave, we'll get a fully cleared pathway down."

"It's good to know everything turned out well." Edda commented, partially to get her mind off the enormity of the roegadyn miner's gratitude.

"You can say that again." Painted Mesa gave an appreciative nod. "Anyroad, I'll share the good tidin's with Papashan the next time I see him. As for you all, I assume you'll be wantin' to report to Momodi. It'll do the woman well to see all three of you alive and in one piece."

Lelouch was going to comment on Papashan likely knowing already followed by it looking like they'd need to wait a bit longer for said report as Momodi was still in conversation with someone at her desk. Yet before he could, the sound of a woman screaming came from outside the tavern, and given it was a clearly one of distress the former prince decided it was worth taking a look just to see what was going on.

Kallen proved to be of similar mind as she went in the same direction at almost the same time. The redhead noticed their near in sync move, but mentally shook it off as she glanced back to see Edda begin to follow after them.

The sight that greeted them was of a young woman wearing a robe that had clearly received many patches over time who had fallen back wards onto the ground and was trying to put distance between herself and a lightly bearded man with black hair in an almost perm-like style whose noticeably finer clothes and jewelry marked him as a merchant. Behind the man were three other men in shabby armor that lookedlike they were his bodyguards:a roegadyn, a hyur and an elzen. A growing crowd of onlookers stood a distance away to avoid getting involved beyond watching.

"Shut your mouth, you thieving little swine!" The obnoxious merchant snarled while pointing an accusing finger at the woman. "You stole from me—don't even think to deny it!"

"P-Please sir, I didn't steal nothin'!" The desperate damsel pleaded. "I b-bought this—paid for it with me own coin!"

"What rot! You refugees are all the same—couldn't afford maggoty mole meat, much less a choice cut of dodo!" The merchant declared with a sneer. "I'm going to say it one more time: give back what you stole, or I'll make you wish you'd never set foot in this town!"

Lelouch wasn't surprised to see a momentary flash of anger come across Kallen's face at the belligerent merchant's words; this wasn't too different from how some business owners treated Numbers back on Earth, Honorary Britannian or not. He got a ready grip on his staff as he gave a subtle nod to the redhead that he'd go along with her if they had to intervene on the woman's behalf. The former prince glanced back to see Edda coming up to join them, though it was unclear if she'd fully heard what was transpiring or not.

"By rights, I should turn you over to the Brass Blades, you know—help keep the streets safe for law-abiding citizens." The malicious merchant's sneer turned into a lecherous grin. "But I'm a reasonable man. If you agree to serve me in... whatever capacity I require, the authorities needn't hear of your crime."

That statement was enough for Lelouch to discard even the idea of talking the depraved trader out of this and ready himself for a fight alongside Kallen. A glance back at Edda as the merchant's hired goons guffawed at their employer's words like it was the funniest thing they'd ever heard showed that she had heard that, given the appalled look on her face at the man's thinly veiled devious intentions.

"We're going to stop this." Lelouch informed the brunette in a lowered voice. "Can you heal the woman while Kallen and I get between her and the rich bastard?"

The former prince had just enough time to hear the other's affirmation, when the distressed damsel cried out in protest, "B-But I ain't done nothin' wrong! Twelve as me witness!"

As Lelouch reflexively returned his gaze in that direction, it was just in time to see the unfortunate woman turn in their direction. Even a quick look around showed why: the three of them were the only ones not backing away and/or pretending they didn't see what was happening, intimidated by a combination of the obnoxious merchant's aggression and status as well as the trio of armed guards he had backing him up.

"P-Please, adventurers! Help me, I beg o' ye! I swear on me mother's grave, I didn't steal nothin'! I bought this with the coin I'd saved..." The woman pleaded with a hand reached out to them before giving an audible sob at the prospect that they might turn and leave her to her fate as well. "I only wanted to treat me children to a decent meal..."

Those last words in particular gave the Earth born pair even more motivation to intervene than they already had. Kallen because it sparked memories of her life in the aftermath of Japan's invasion, and Lelouch due to his and Nunnally's loss of their mother. Both had their weapons out with clear intent to use, while Edda helped the woman to her feet and quickly casting Cure in case of injury before she turned to join her teammates.

"And who the hells are you lot when you're at home!?" The obnoxious merchant demanded scornfully. "This dog's owners?"

"I see no dog, only a woman in clear need of help." Lelouch spoke simply, though the look he gave the malicious merchant made clear his contempt before adding, in a mocking tone. "Though one could be forgiven for mistaking her would be assailant for a talking rat."

"How dare-!" The merchant bristled at the insult, but his retort was cut off.

"You want it plain? Fine!" Kallen called out, her expression towards the creep downright murderous. "Anyone could tell what you really wanted as soon as you threatened to sic the guards on her if she said no. You can either back off or the best you'll get is a fist to the face!"

"I've had enough of this mummer's farce." The obnoxious merchant declared before grinning arrogantly as he gave a signaling gesture to his hired muscle. "You lot, teach them a lesson!"

Of the malicious merchant's three bodyguards, a male roegadyn pugilist stepped forward, identified as such by the knuckles he was readying. Though one look would also show the man's outfit had seen better days on account of it looking as its wearer hadn't washed it in weeks. There was also a slightly unsteady gait to him, that anyone nearby could tell by scent alone was through a recent bout of drinking.

The filthy bodyguard gave an audible belch before looking back at his two colleagues and said, "I'll take care o' this. The rest o' ye can watch."

"Lelouch, can you and Edda deal with the other two?" Kallen asked as she glared at the drunken roegadyn, feeling disgust not just at his choice of employer and lack of anything resembling cleanliness but his sloppy stance as well.

"I'll be surprised if I have to cast more than three spells." Lelouch answered, eyeing the hyur that had a sword and wooden shield, the former covered in rust with visible chips along the blade and the latter looking on the verge of splintering under a heavy blow.

"I...think so." Edda gave her reply, trying to show a little confidence to go along with her friends' and give the woman they were protecting some reassurance. She hoped she was right about the looks of the elezen conjurer's badly kept cane, which looked like it was on the verge of splintering into pieces to be used for kindling, indicating his skill. Even the one she'd started with when leaving home with Avere had looked better.

At her teammates' affirmations, Kallen nodded and headed toward the most immediate target of her ire.

"If ye know wha's good for ye, ye sh-." The drunken bodyguard's taunt was cut short as the Japanese pugilist darted forward, faster than his inebriated eyes could follow and delivered a simple, knuckle reinforced, punch to his face.

The filthy bodyguard stumbled back with a cry that was a mixture of pain and surprise as he instinctively reached for his injured face. He then lowered his hands as he got ready to start fighting.

"Hmph. Not bad, for an adv-" The intoxicated roegadyn began with an attempt to save his dignity, but that was quickly cut off as Kallen delivered another punch in the face. "Augh! Ye hit me aga-" Another punch cut him off. "Ugh...I should've stopped at the seventh ale…"

Meanwhile, the obnoxious merchant was seething at the pitiful excuse for a fight his hired thug was providing. The crowd that had just minutes ago been cowed by him and his hirelings were not so intimidated now. Many were laughing at the drunken goon's bumbling and others were straight up cheering for the Doman wench.

"Why in the hells are you just letting her hit you?!" The unscrupulous man demanded only to begin cursing as the filthy bodyguard turned his head stupidly in his direction in response. "Damn it! No, don't turn away, just…"

The inebriated bodyguard obeyed just in time to get another punch to the face. Once again, he cried out, but this time backed up so he was out of immediate range of his opponent's strikes. The unclean roegadyn then turned to the two other bodyguards that he'd just recently told to stay out of the fight.

"Stop bloody gawpin' at me and give me a hand, will ye?!" The filthy bodyguard demanded and seeing the two begin to come to his aid, turned while preparing to guard his face from the expected attack. Unfortunately for him, he didn't bring up his guard fast enough as he once again got an up close look at the metal knuckles on Kallen's fist. "Oh gods, I think she broke somethin' that time!"

The swordsman didn't get far as he was almost immediately struck by a Fire spell from Lelouch, which he just as quickly followed up with a Lightning spell. As the former prince began to cast another Fire spell, the sell sword brought up his shield in order to block the fireball. That defensive move succeeded, only for the badly maintained wooden shield to catch fire. The hired swordsman gave a startled yelp as he felt the heat from his now ablaze protective gear and dropped his sword as he began hastily trying to get it off before getting burned himself.

The hired conjurer fared little better as he wasn't sure which of his two colleagues to heal. Which of them he would have picked would never be known as a casting of Stone by Edda resulted in the aetheric rock striking him in the side of the head. The conjurer for hire crumpled to the ground, nursing an obvious concussion.

"Bugger, bugger," The filthy bodyguard cursed as he saw his fellows get so easily defeated, and having finally had his head cleared enough to take the fight more seriously spotted Kallen coming at him with a readied strike. "BUGGER!"

The roegadyn ruffian this time was able to put up a guard in front of his face, seeing there was something different in his attacker's stance. His guess was correct, for while he had been nursing the facial injuries from each of her simple jabs, Kallen had used the time to gather chakra through the Meditation technique and was now set to pull off a Steel Peak. Unfortunately for the hired goon, she did not strike at his face like he expected and instead brought the empowered strike upon his unprotected stomach.

The filthy bodyguard was knocked back before crumpling to the ground, right in front of his unscrupulous employer, clutching his injured belly as he tried to both stay conscious and not lose the large amount of alcohol he'd recently consumed.

"I ain't gettin' paid enough for this!" The now disarmed swordsman cried out with genuine fear at seeing his fellows so easily beaten before turning and running away as fast as his legs could carry him.

The thoroughly trounced roegadyn silently agreed and demonstrated by getting up and proceeding to flee in the same direction, while silently bearing the pain of a likely broken nose. That Doman girl's gut punch had shown the blows he'd taken to the face had just been her taking the fight as seriously as he had. If that last strike was her being serious… if she really did want blood, then his former (and honestly not that well-paying) employer was welcome to be the provider. The sound of the now formerly hired healer of their bunch trailing behind signaled that he was at the vary least as smart as they were.

"H-Hey! Where the hells do you think you're going?" The obnoxious merchant shouted after the fleeing bodyguards as they deserted him.

As the perverse peddler waited for an answer that would never come, Lelouch, Kallen and Edda turned back to the woman they'd saved.

"Thank ye, kind adventurers!" She said as she came to them with a look of clear gratitude on her face. "Thank each of ye thrice over!"

As Edda began to reply, a sharp but familiar ringing head pain came upon both Lelouch and Kallen before they could even begin to give theirs.

Their vision took them to right outside the walls of Ul'dah and two men were chatting as they moved along towards one of the city gates. While they weren't dressed finely, the normal looking state of their clothing was enough to indicate they were likely average city dwellers. As they walked along, Kallen could recognize some of the small encampments used by either refugees or those without money that dotted the outskirts of the city.

"I'd swear there were more refugees than when I last looked..." The younger of the two men observed.

"And you wouldn't be mistaken." The older one agreed, a look of concern on his face as he saw the state of things.

"But it's been five years since the Calamity!" The younger exclaimed with disbelief. "Why are they only coming here now?"

"It's simple really—while a number of hamlets survived the immediate aftermath of the Calamity, many were no longer able to support their communities." The other explained. "The residents found their lands had either been rendered barren, or cut off from trade routes—and problems like those aren't easily solved. Though they tried to make the best of it, it was only a matter of time before they were forced to abandon their homes and seek a new life in the city."

"I see…" The young city-dweller turned and again looked at the areas occupied by the less fortunate. He then turned back to his companion as a thought came to him. "But the Calamity affected the whole realm, didn't it? Is the same thing happening in the other cities?"

"If the talk is true, yes." The elder answered as he considered that. "Though perhaps our situation is more pronounced. Ul'dah has a reputation for being prosperous, so it's natural that the refugees would try their luck here first."

A slightly guilty look came across the younger man's face as he admitted, "My heart goes out to them, it truly does...but I would be lying if I said that I wasn't apprehensive. I hope their presence doesn't foment lawlessness in the city."

"Well, if things do take a turn for the worse, we always have the Immortal Flames." The other offered. "I daresay the Brass Blades would welcome their help."

"The heroes who fought the Garlean Empire, patrolling the streets for riffraff?" The young city-dweller exclaimed, the shock of the idea evident on his face.

"It may well come to that. Impoverished and desperate as they are, you may be sure that some of the refugees will turn to crime." The older concerned citizen replied gravely. "You know what this place is like. If you've no coin, you've no hope."

The younger man lowered his head with a weary sigh before audibly wondering, "What will become of our city?"

"Not all refugees are bad, mind you." The other offered in an attempt to reassure his troubled friend. "Some are able to find employment and lead honest lives."

The pair's attention was drawn by the sound of a male voice, and they turned to regard a small set of market stalls obviously set up to sell to the nearby occupants. One of those approaching the stalls looked familiar to Lelouch and Kallen.

"Dodo tenderloins! Get yer dodo tenderloins!" A young salesman with a sure voice called out from one of the stalls. "Guaranteed cheapest in Thanalan!"

The Earth born pair's vision shifted slightly, moving closer to that particular stall. It centered around a woman wearing a patched robe, who bought the meat after an exchange of a few words and gil. Lelouch and Kallen quickly recognized this as the woman they'd helped, but did not recognize the man she bought the foodstuff from. Unlike the trouble making merchant, this man had no beard and was wearing a turban over normally cut light colored hair.

"Thank ye for yer custom, madam!" The sure voiced salesman said as the woman took her purchase. "Please come again!"

"Looking around, you'd think that Ul'dah was well on its way to recovery." The young city-dweller spoke as he and his companion turned and began to take their leave. "But peer through the veil of prosperity and you'll see no end to the misery and suffering."

As the men disappeared into the city, the shared vision began to fade…

"Er...sir? Madame? Are ye all right?" The rescued woman's voice inquired as the Earth born pair's vision returned to normal and found both her and Edda looking at them with concern. Before either of them could give more than a nod of reassurance, a less welcome voice called out to them in interruption.

"Wh-What now!?" The obnoxious merchant demanded, clearly trying to hide his growing anxiety. "You mean to threaten a defenseless citizen!?"

" 'Threaten' implies there's anything you can do to stop us from giving you what you deserve. There isn't." Kallen said as she pointed a fist clenched knuckle at the source of their current trouble. "Especially since we know for sure this lady didn't steal a damned thing from you! You weren't even the guy she bought it from!"

Realizing that perhaps a magic vision may not be the best evidence to counter the man's accusation, Lelouch decided to voice his support in a way that would sound more plausible.

"Indeed, my teammates and I were out doing a job we took at the Quicksand this very day." The former prince declared, pausing to briefly look back at the woman they'd helped for better effect to the crowd around them. "Yes, I'm certain Kallen and I saw this good woman making a purchase at the stalls out near the gates, but…" He then smoothly led his turning back around into a dramatic point of his index finger at the unscrupulous marketeer. "...I can say for sure that this man was not present, for the man selling food at the stall was as clean shaven as myself!"

The obnoxious merchant gave a light start at those words, in part because he wasn't expecting a direct challenge to his word and the other because he was certain there couldn't have been that many witnesses at that market for undesirables. At least not from where he'd been watching from within the gates, unwilling to be so close to the literally unwashed masses.

"...What? Saw her buy that meat, you say?" The dishonest salesman asked in an attempt to sound skeptical while trying to keep his voice from wavering, especially as the crowd began mumbling words that could be questioning his. "That's absurd!"

"I-If Lelouch and Kallen say they saw her buy that food, I believe them!" Edda called out in a voice as loud as she could muster, and did her best not to flinch under the glare the malicious merchant shot at her in response.

"Aye, and I saw the purchase as well!" A male voice called out from the crowd. "Leave the poor woman alone, you damnable vulture!"

"Wh-Who said that!?" The obnoxious merchant demanded as he looked around, glaring into the crowd in an attempt to intimidate any other speakers into silence.

"I have passed by the market stalls at the gates many times before; I have never seen this man peddle his wares there." A female voice declared from somewhere else in the crowd.

The dishonest merchant turned in the direction of the new voice, but once again couldn't place the speaker. The mumbles from the crowd had grown far louder to be called that anymore, and the man grit his teeth as he began to hear blatant questions as to his character along with his honesty. He inwardly cursed at those three cowards for leaving him and making it impossible to remind this rabble of their place in Ul'dah.

With a growl of frustration, the obnoxious merchant turned back to Lelouch, Kallen and Edda before practically spitting out, "I will overlook this… but just this once!"

The man turned and ran away, ironically in the same general direction as his former hirelings. Whether he heard the multiple jeers various members of the crowd shouted after him, he gave no indication.

With the matter for all intents and purposes concluded, the crowd quickly began to disperse, a good many believing they would have something interesting to discuss at mealtime, or at their favorite drinking establishment, later. Meanwhile, the rescued woman walked up to the three and lightly bowed to them in gratitude.

"Gods bless ye, adventurers!" The woman said to them, the relief at what she'd escaped evident in her voice and the look on her face. "If the three of ye hadn't come along when ye did, who knows what that monster might've done!? It don't bear thinkin' about…"

"It's fine, ma'am, we were happy to do it." Kallen replied casually.

"Indeed, and you said yourself you'd bought that to enjoy with your kids. Just do that; enjoy it with them and that...that should be enough…" The gracious reply Lelouch gave started to trail a little as that brought flashes of childhood memories of himself and Nunnally when they were able to share meals with their mother. Sometimes even with… The former prince mentally shoved those thoughts aside and, in an attempt to save face, hastily added, "Of course, if you feel you need an escort home then we…"

"Oh no, ye needn't offer that, our place is close by." The refugee matron politely declined before giving Lelouch a grateful smile, one that the raven-haired thaumaturge was finding strangely hard to not look away from. "Thank ye all the same fer the offer, though."

With that, the woman left and after watching her go, the three looked at each other, but before either commentary on what had just happened or a suggestion to head back into the Quicksand could be shared, a voice called out to them.

"All's well that ends well!" Came a male voice Kallen recognized.

As they each turned in the direction of the speaker, Lelouch and Edda saw that he was a hyur man with short white hair, a pair of tattoos along the side of his neck and wearing a black tunic over a white shirt and black pants.

"I can see selfless heroes ever have a tendency to be drawn to one another." A female voice Lelouch recognized came from off to the side of the newcomer. A look in that direction revealed to Kallen and Edda a white haired miqo'te woman with light brown skin dressed in a white shirt and dark blue pants. She gave a knowing smile at Lelouch. "And I see your habit of adding a bit of the dramatic to your deeds hasn't changed."

"I simply wish for a good impression to be a lasting one." Lelouch gave a well practiced gracious smile before he addressed the white haired man. "A pleasure to meet you; am I correct in assuming your name is Thancred? Kallen has mentioned you from time to time."

"And going by what this guy's told me, I'm guessing you're Y'shtola." Kallen said to the approaching miqo'te.

A quick exchange of introductions amongst the five was made before the conversation resumed.

"Well, this has been a good mix of reunion and introductions." Thancred noted before looking at both Earth born adventurers. "Pray do not mistake my intent—for it is always honorable—but my esteemed colleague and I have been watching you both ever since you departed from your respective cities."

"If you'd said that to just me, I'd still have found that suspicious." Kallen commented with a raised eyebrow.

"While I would agree Thancred should have chosen a better manner of phrasing, he is telling the truth." Y'shtola said. "We have observed each of you discharge your duty as personal envoy for the Admiral and Flame General respectively, and you have displayed unfaltering courage in the face of danger ever since."

"I must say you both played the part of envoy to perfection—each of you as confident as a man and woman on a diplomatic mission should be, yet unfailingly courteous to your betters." The white-haired rogue added. "And when your travels led you into the midst of danger, you faced it without so much as a flinch. You, my friends, are quite a marvel, and I confess to being somewhat in awe of you!"

"In summary, you both have demonstrated all of the qualities we seek in an adventurer." Y'shtola continued. "For reasons I cannot well explain, your every deed seems invariably to serve the general good...whether either of you mean it to or not. It is a happy knack, and one which speaks volumes for your character!"

"To be sure, your rescue of that damsel in distress was more of a happy accident." Thancred added. "But rescue her you did, and that is what matters in the end."

"Yet for all your admirable qualities, it is your gift which intrigues us most. I speak of the visions you both experience." Y'shtola gave them a knowing look. "Visions like the one you shared mere moments ago, if I am not mistaken. We can provide you with the means to understand them."

"I take it that this offer is for employment on more than a simple contractual basis." Lelouch surmised, with a look of interest. "Especially since the offer of information on the means by which Kallen and I are getting these visions has got to be from a source who has them as well, given those familiar with it from an outsider's perspective are among those we've met already."

"Right you are, Lelouch,it just so happens that we know a woman who shares your talent and can help you and Kallen to understand it." Thancred nodded. "She belongs to the same organization as Y'shtola and I, and we should both be delighted beyond words if you and Kallen would agree to join our cause. Naturally, there are benefits to being part of such a collective. For one, we should be glad to assist you in realizing your potential as an adventurer."

"Also, if you would agree to lend us your strength, we should be glad to do all within our power to aid you in your personal endeavors." The miqo'te magic user added.

"Sounds good, but I've got a question." Kallen said as she glanced at Edda. "Is this offer just for the two of us? 'Cause as you've probably noticed, we recently picked up a new teammate, and I'm pretty sure neither of us are in a mood to change that back any time soon."

"Indeed not." Lelouch put in, catching the redhead's intent and he also had a feeling Edda might say she would be fine not being included, so it was best to cut that off before it happened.

"I do not believe there will be a problem with your friend's inclusion." Y'shtola answered. "You both vouch for her, correct?"

"Yes." Lelouch and Kallen replied almost in unison, and they couldn't help but glance at each other at the odd timing.

"Is it really all right?" Edda asked, trying not to sound too hesitant.

"I see no reason to object to your inclusion from what you have shown during your time with Lelouch and Kallen." Thancred answered. "Your companions all returned from the mines after two excursions, and despite only recently joining them you did not show any sign of hesitancy or deserting them when confronting that miscreant of a merchant."

"Of course I wouldn't do that!" Edda exclaimed before realizing her outburst and her face reddened in embarrassment. "I'm sorry… I just couldn't think of repaying Lelouch and Kallen's kindness that way. That… would just be wrong."

"Understandable, especially given the circumstances that led to your joining their company." Y'shtola gave a sympathetic nod, having gotten the information from Miounne earlier. "Also, another favorable matter to consider is your initial work with them in Limsa Lominsa; both the survivors of the Serpent Reaver kidnappings that you helped rescue and the Yellowjackets overseeing it spoke highly of you."

"And if you are concerned about the process itself, you needn't be. It would simply be a matter of a little more paperwork." The white-haired rogue added before turning to include the other two in the conversation. "In any case, you need not give us your answer now, especially since the two of us are to be aiding with some business from your most recent exploits. Think upon it, and if you feel moved to help us—as I pray you shall—speak with Momodi, the ever-lovely and youthful mistress of the Quicksand."

"The proprietress of the Quicksand is a close friend and ally of ours." Y'shtola explained. "Inform her that you have been chosen by the Scions of the Seventh Dawn, and she will tell you where to find us."

With that the pair of 'Scions' took their leave. As he watched them go, Lelouch thought he heard them beginning to discuss something about who of them would informing someone named Tataru of the extra paperwork. With a quick mental wish of sympathy to this person who was likely the clerk for these Scions of the Seventh Dawn, the former prince turned to Kallen and Edda where it was decided they'd speak to Momodi before discussing what to do from there.

Before they did, Kallen took a quick look to make sure no one else was in hearing range before speaking to Lelouch.

"Speaking of that vision stuff, thanks for backing up what I said with a believable story back there, Lelouch." The redhead said.

"You're welcome, Kallen, but I take issue with the 'believable story' part." The former prince asked as that sardonic smile the other recognized crept onto his face. "I didn't say anything that was untrue."

The rebel turned adventurer blinked in confusion before giving the other a skeptical look.

"What the hell are you talking about? You got that rich bastard's accusation discredited by tricking him and that crowd of people into believing we saw that woman buy her food fair and square." Kallen pointed out.

"Which the two of us did, as I said, just not in a conventional sense." Lelouch paused to make sure no one else could hear before continuing. "Also, the former part of my statement was true and can easily be verified: the three of us did go out on a job we took at the Quicksand. What happened in between those two, everyone else assumed on their own."

"That's…" Kallen had to stop and think to try and find any holes in that. She could tell from the look on her Britannian associate's face he was waiting for her attempt with amused anticipation.

"When he puts it that way, Kallen, it does…" Edda began.

"No, no! Edda, don't. You're just going to encourage him…" The Japanese pugilist interjected before taking the only sure way out of this discussion: changing the subject. Gently bringing the well meaning brunette along, she said. "Come on, we should talk to Momodi like those two suggested."

As the trio reentered the Quicksand, they could hear Momodi speaking with a man who looked to be a starting adventurer.

"Hmph. Scenes like that are becomin' ever more common, I'm afraid. Don't worry, though—if you work hard, you'll probably be all right." The lalafell guild leader commented to the new adventurer, likely of what she had heard going on outside, and prompting a feeling of déjà vu on Kallen's end. "Sayin' that, if you ever find yourself in a spot of bother, come and see me. Just don't go pesterin' me every time you graze your knee, eh?" The conspiratorial smile Momodi then gave the newest addition to the guild made the feeling more apparent to her fellow redhead. "...'Course, I do enjoy hearin' tell of a gentleman's woes with the womenfolk from time to time..."

After a few quick words, the new adventurer departed and the three approached the guild leader's desk.

"Ah, Kallen! Sorry to keep you and your friends waitin'—I was just providin' guidance to a fresh-off-the-carriage-adventurer." Momodi greeted the party of three with a wave as she saw them approach.

"Yeah, and I could've sworn I've heard the last thing you said before." Kallen commented, with a knowing smile.

"It makes for the best way of gettin' to know the new adventurers and findin' out the goin's on in Eorzea." The redhead lalafell with a chuckle. "But gods, it's good to see you safe and well! To look at you, no one would ever guess you'd been hard at it with giants in the dark! Not to mention gettin' any of them to try treatin' with the sultana; can't think any would've expected that to happen. You're both every ilm the adventurers Miounne said you'd be Kallen, and Lelouch. The stationmaster was overjoyed when he heard the news!"

Momodi paused for just a second before turning to Edda and saying, "And I'd say these two knew what they were doin' in pickin' you as their healer, Edda. Bein' able to keep not just your team, but also another team of adventurers alive through all that is no small feat."

"Thank you…" Edda replied, privately hoping that she'd get used to receiving praise like this. That brought her to consider that, until recently, she hadn't had any real interactions with the guildmasters in the different city-states before as Avere had insisted that as the leader of their party he would handle that. After meeting Mother Miounne and now this Momodi, they seemed to genuinely care about the adventurers working for them. With that in mind, she said, "To be honest, I'd considered giving up adventuring when the leader of my original party was killed, but… after Lelouch and Kallen asked me to join them, I decided to try starting again with them." She gave the pair a warm smile then. "I was worried I might not be able to at first, but… I think with these two I'm starting down the right path…"

As both aforementioned adventurers thanked the brunette for the compliment, a strangely troubling thought came upon Lelouch of what that could imply in the future, especially when the time came to use what he'd gained against Britannia, but thankfully Momodi's reply helped him mentally brush that aside.

"Adventurin' can be a cruel bleedin' business..." The guildmaster admitted as she folded her arms, and a wistful expression came on her face. "Time was, I didn't know why anyone would bother. When they first asked me to take charge of the guild here, I didn't want aught to do with you lot—thought it'd be a right pain in the arse lookin' after you all." She then regarded all three as her look became a reassuring smile. "But against my better judgment, I decided to accept the post...and I'm full glad I did. I feel privileged to be a part of your lives." She paused as she made an emphasizing gesture. "And that goes double for each of you: Kallen, Lelouch and Edda."

"My thanks, though now that I think about it, is there much you can tell us about what's to happen regarding the giants?" Lelouch inquired.

"I admit I'm pretty curious too." Kallen said. "I get you're going to want way more experienced guys working on this, but can you at least tell us what you think the chances are things'll work out well?"

"Given the experts involved in at least the first round of talks, I'd say there's a fair good chance." Momodi answered before turning to Kallen. "You've worked with one of them already: Thancred."

"Would I be correct in assuming the other working on this is a woman named Y'shtola?" Lelouch asked and after the redhead lalafell's affirmation turned to Kallen. "I guess that's the 'business' they were talking about."

"Yeah, makes sense." The Japanese pugilist nodded before looking to her fellow redhead. "That reminds me, Thancred and Y'shtola told us to ask you more about the Scions of the Seventh Dawn since you've done work with them before. What can you tell us?"

"...Eh? What did you say? You want to know about the Scions of the Seventh Dawn?" Momodi cocked her head in surprise before bringing her hand to her chin in contemplation. "They're beginnin' to move in earnest, then...

"Is this organization recruiting people that unusual?" Lelouch asked.

Momodi looked at all three of them seriously before answering, "Listen, Kallen, Lelouch and Edda - - the Scions ain't no ordinary folk, and the work they do ain't no ordinary work. I know full well how capable you three are, but evenyouwould think twice about attemptin' some of the stuff they do. Knowin' that, if you're still certain you want to get involved, I'll tell you what I can."

It didn't take long for the three of them to agree to that. For Lelouch and Kallen the risks were worth the reward for their plans on Earth. Edda only briefly hesitated, but agreed with assurances she'd do her best to support them no matter how dangerous things got. That talk done the three gave their confirmation to Momodi.

"So you want to know more, then, do you? Well, ain't that a surprise…" Momodi commented with amusement. "I swear if I painted 'CERTAIN DEATH ' on one door and 'LIMITLESS WEALTH' on another, nine out of ten adventurers would go through the first, and the other bloke wouldn't be able to choose on account of bein' Ul'dahn."

"Ah, but does the second door's offering come with any conditions to the wealth it promises?" Lelouch asked. "Be they supernatural or mundane."

"Oh, like the tales of voidsent tricking greedy folk into death or worse." Edda commented.

"You ask me, the second kind of catches might be more dangerous. You can always take out the clearly evil monster, but…" Kallen stopped as that was about to get into personal territory and changed the subject. "Besides, you two are forgetting the appeal of beating the odds of door one." She then turned to her fellow redhead. "What do the adventurers get if they beat those odds?"

"I can't tell if the three of you are sayin' all that knowin' I was jokin' or not, and it's a little concernin'." Momodi replied. "Anyway, don't say I didn't warn you."

After seeing she has the trio's full attention, the redheaded lalafell guildmaster explained, "First of all, if you're wonderin' whether you can trust these 'Scions of the Seventh Dawn', you can. They're good people who've made it their mission to solve some of Eorzea's most pressin' problems. 'Course, that ain't no small task, and so they're always lookin' for dependable individuals to join 'em, and I'd say you each count as such individuals Kallen, Lelouch and Edda." She paused to consider something. "Now normally I'm given leave to tell you where to find the Scions, but I need to confirm somethin' with Thancred and Y'shtola first. Don't get me wrong, it ain't about any of you three bein' trustworthy, it's just with how the situation with the giants turned out, the Scions might be occupied for a little while."

"So it's a matter of scheduling, then." Lelouch commented. "Fine with me, I have some business with the Thaumaturges' Guild anyway."

"And I'm going to need to check in with Chuchuto at the Pugilists' Guild." Kallen said before a thought came to her. "Before we do that, you think we should look into any of the guilds for those more heavily armored guys who take point? We've gotten lucky in finding someone available to help, and we didn't have a hard time beating that rich piece of crap's bodyguards outside, but I don't think we should keep relying on getting lucky."

"I can show at least one of you to the Gladiators' Guild, and…" Momodi began to offer and then stopped. "Wait...were the three of you the ones givin' that monetarist's goons a thrashin' just a moment ago?"

"Yeah." Kallen answered, a little glad for that change in subject matter as she wasn't all that comfortable with potentially going for the whole armored knight thing. "I'm guessing, from what you said to that new guy, you heard all that?

"Heard, yes. Saw, no." Momodi looked at the three with interest. "It's about time for my break, so how about tellin' me a little about it?"

AN: At last, that is chapter 12 done! Sorry it took so long, but this one proved to be more challenging to get out than I thought it would be. My most optimistic hope was to have this out at the end of December '24 but IRL stuff just wouldn't allow it as November pretty much began with real life pummeling me (and many others) with creativity crushing stress Steely Dan beat down style, ranging from incredibly obvious stuff to nasty surprises like a union strike at work (which was thankfully short and resulted in an improved contract). Admittedly, things did get better in the latter half of December, especially during my holiday vacation to visit family and I was able to start chipping away at this.

I also can't wholly blame the delay on stress, as it did take quite a bit of thought on how to adapt all the changes I made to the Copperbell Mines related stuff and make it work. From sparing Dolorous Bear and his party from their off screen death (to those wondering why I saved such minor characters, all I'll say is that's for me to know and you to (eventually) find out) to adding quite a bit to the hecatoncheires. As for why I did the latter, well, aside from the fact that given Lelouch and Kallen's characters they'd react differently than the canon WoL to the job, additional FF14 material made it so I could without it being that much of change in the grand scheme of things (also it saves me the trouble of adapting a side dungeon in the post ARR content) as some details on the hecatoncheires do mention they find their own way out of the mines somehow and go off to fight the Gigas giants in revenge for selling them to Ul'dah. Also thanks to Dawntrail, we get to meet and interact with a different race of giants and their lore makes for an interesting comparison to the bits of Eorzean giant lore (and maybe future patches and expansions will add to that). Finally, it did make for an opportunity to add a little extra Ascian stuff to tide things over since it will be a little bit till that becomes more relevant, give Lelouch and Kallen a little preview of the primal stuff without them knowing it and I even got to work in an introduction to Limit Breaks to justify them learning how to do it. As a result, this chapter turned out a lot longer than intended. I thought this was going to be about 30 pages at most and it's about 40 now.

One last thing before I ramble about the things I indulged in to relieve the 2024 holiday season stress. The would be primal that Travanchet was trying to get Gyges to summon is based on the Primal Beast Sethlans from Granblue Fantasy. I ended up picking him due to having some resemblance to the giants of this chapter, plus given the mythological Sethlans is a deity from Etruscan mythology, which is Greek mythology adjacent, I thought it would fit.

Anyway, on to the rambling. Stressful as the end of the year (and beyond) was, at least there was no shortage of stuff bury my sorrows with. Sonic 3 was a fun movie and a good live action adaptation of Sonic Adventure 2, and yes Jim Carrey as Robotnik steals the show again by giving the character an energy comparable to Long John Baldry's vocal performance from Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog. Not to mention his double act with himself as Gerald Robotnik was great, especially that dance sequence. A shame we couldn't have Sonic and Shadow fight that kaiju from the end of the game though (I get the feeling if I make any commentary about Rouge not being there, it'll give the wrong impression, so I won't XD). Am curious to see what they do next given who they introduce in the first post credit scene.

On the anime side of things, Shangrila Frontier continues to be a consistently fun watch, Dandadan was amazing and I can't wait to see how the more current arcs look when the anime reaches that point (especially the alien kaiju mecha stuff), Sakamoto Days has been enjoyable even if I have some issue with it skipping stuff from the manga, Let This Grieving Soul Retire scratched the fantasy comedy itch left by Konosuba despite not being isekai and speaking of isekai The Red Ranger Becomes an Adventurer in Another World has been a delight to watch, especially since watching tokusatsu does give context for some in jokes and references. Also, the show I May be a Guild Receptionist, But I'll Solo Any Boss to Clock Out on Time has proven to be a pleasant surprise as from the title I expected a run of the mill comedy but also got some surprisingly good world building, interesting characters and better animation than expected along with the laughs. Heck, it's opening is way prettier than it has any business being, looking and sounding like the opening to an epic fantasy type anime. Pretty much the opposite of Bogus Skill "Fruitmaster", one of the blandest anime I've seen in a while despite its premise being a take on the Devil Fruits of One Piece. The only reason I'm still watching it is the ironic enjoyment brought on by the main character, Light's, design: he looks like someone took their Lelouch fanart and only changed the hair slightly and bet on that and art style difference being enough to beat copyright. My brother summed it up perfectly: "A protagonist who is Light Lelouch Blackbeard should not be this generic".

Now on to tokusatsu, I'm about halfway through King-Ohger (plus the movie Adventure Heaven) and to Des Shinta, I definitely see what you meant regarding the character Jeremy Braiseri. Now here's a Toei Spiderman I can get behind! Also finished watching Space Sheriff Sharivan and that was a really good watch: took a lot of elements from Gavan and improved them like better villains, a more badass and story involved main heroine in Lily and some really nice horror movie reference episodes. Have started watching its sequel series Shaider and it's good so far too, though I do wonder if maybe the showrunners were told to tone down the villains a bit given Reider from the previous show was apparently (according to extra info on the bluray for Sharivan) considered too scary for kids. Not to say Shaiders villains are bad, I do like the weird space cult theme of them (plus it is kind of funny one of the minions looks like dollar store Yoda) as it does make for a very different looking group of bad guys compared to Makuu and Madou.

Finally on the game end, first. Finished up Dragon Age: The Veilgard and I can say it's not as bad as some make it out to be, but nowhere near as good as it could have been, likely due to EA's mismanagement. Fortunately the next game I started afterwards is proving to be a way more enjoyable experience. I found myself choosing between Final Fantasy 16 or Metaphor: ReFantazio, only for a holiday sale to reveal a dark horse choice in Megaton Musashi, a super robot action RPG chock full of tributes to Getter Robo, Evangelion, Space Battleship Yamato and even a bit of Pacific Rim to name a few. I'm not finished playing yet, but man I can now understand those who have who are in disbelief at how under advertised this game's english release was. The gameplay is fun with a mech customizable to your favored playstyle and appearance, the characters are fun to the point you'll be scouring the town to unlock all the side stories and there's even DLC where you can play as Getter Robo, Mazinger, Grendizer, Combattler V and Voltes V (sadly none of it is story DLC).

Anyway, rambling done. Hope you all enjoyed this chapter, and don't worry I don't intend for the job quest stuff to take three chapters before we return to the MSQ.