Finding My Way Back To You

by ShanoaWarrior

Brought back from the dead through the power of the holy stone, former Knight Templar, Izlude Tingel, is now able to keep his promise to his love, Alma Beoulve, whom he had died to protect and searches for her in post-Lion War Ivalice. Sequel to 'When Love Awaits'. Other pairings include Ramza/Agrias, Beowulf/Reis, Delita/Ovelia, Mustadio/Meliadoul, Rad/Alicia, Malak/Lavian.

50. The Gathering

Disclaimer: I do not own Final Fantasy Tactics or Final Fantasy 7. This is written for your enjoyment only. All characters are the property of Square-Enix. Once again, I would like to thank my co-writer and editor, Falchion1984, for his help in making this fic possible. The exoplanets discussed in this chapter are real life planets that exist beyond our Solar System. Please refer to the footnotes at the end. Enjoy and please review!

Co-Author's Note: Falchion1984 here. I'd like to preface this with a simple warning: fanboys (and fangirls) or FF7's AVALANCHE might be displeased by some of this chapter's content. I'm not going to spoil it just yet but, as pervious chapters have revealed, the orrery can do more than summon downgraded cameo characters from elsewhere in the IP. In fact, in this fic, it does a LOT more. Please read, and please try not to take the implications about AVALANCHE too personally.

Chapter 50: The Gathering

The sun, just barely visible on the horizon as it slowly rose to presage a new dawn, painted the sky in hues of orange and gold, casting a warm and inviting glow over the lively streets of Goug Machine City. Mustadio, ever the night owl and always an early riser, had been hard at work while most sensible people would be fast asleep, but had made a point of setting his project aside to greet the day.

Standing at the window of his modest home, he could swear his heart still danced with the joy that had suffused his very blood during the wedding of his dear friends, Alma and Izlude, even a few months after the fact. Having witnessed the horrors of battle more times than he wanted to count, running afoul of the worst of humankind and demonkind, and having endured a myriad of trials, the sight of his friends' happiness filled him with a profound sense of peace that had eluded him for far too long.

That peace turned to curiosity as he regarded the golden orb that continued to rise before him. There had been considerable debate over the centuries about whether the sun wheeled about the world or the other way around. Mustadio had more-or-less proven the latter through his use of the orrery to study exoplanets, but he felt unveiling a discovery of such awesome scope on the people of Ivalice all at once might do more harm than good.

Knowledge found, drop by drop, made the seeker thirsty for more. But, letting a whole raging river of it loose with nary a thought for the consequences? From what he could piece together, something not too different had happened on Cloud's world when this strange "Mako" had been discovered and it led to a deluge of inventions ranging from the wondrous to the terrible, from the practical to the decadent, and in such number and rapidity that even the people who LIVED on that world couldn't keep track of them all…let alone use them responsibly.

Indeed, even the people trying to DO SOMETHING about that world's deteriorating health were badly shortsighted, in Mustadio's opinion. An explosive small enough to carry in one's hand, but which could level a building dozens of stories tall? Impressive. Terrifying, but impressive.

However, what good would it do to blow up all the technology, and people, who were causing that world to wither if nothing better was offered to fill the void? There was no mention of something better replacing this "Mako" that would fuel these lives of ease without killing the planet. And without that, all the bombs that went off would do little more than delay the inevitable…and kill heaven knows how many people who were guilty of nothing more than being in the wrong place at the worst possible time.

He shook off the thought, however. Whatever needed to be done to save that world, it was out of his hands. In fact, it was likely in Cloud's hands and, odd and unsettling as he was, Cloud was a formidable warrior. And, even if blowing things up wasn't a true solution, who was to say it might not give way to something better? Much like how using a glass orb to magnify small objects led, step by step, to the telescope, maybe the people on Cloud's world would find a better way, given time.

And maybe, after the people of Ivalice had learned about exoplanets on their own, then discovering the orrery, assuming the wondrous device was not sucked away when Mustadio used it, would do far more good then than carelessly revealing it now would.

That musing gave way to another. Was the orrery he'd discovered the only one of its kind? And, if not, how many others might there be? And, how many of them still worked?

If the orrery stayed here, which would lead to quite a few potential risks, then could some future generation learn enough about its workings to build an even better version? He shook off the notion, as anything he might say or think now was purely speculative. For now, he would see if the orrery stayed or went and, after he knew, he would plan what to do next.

As a man of science, he would take the facts as they came, and plan based on what experimentation produced. If the results were what he wanted, well and good. If not, then at least he'd learn something.

With a sigh of reassurance at the thought, he turned away from the mesmerizing view, his gaze sweeping over the room he had meticulously prepared for their gathering. The rich aroma of a hearty stew simmering on the stove wafted through the air, melding seamlessly with the delicate scent of freshly baked bread and the nigh-permanent aroma of strong coffee. It was a humble meal, yet Mustadio hoped it would provide nourishment not just for their bodies, but also for their spirits as they undertook the next chapter of their shared journey.

And, while he could certainly appreciate the dazzling elegance and heady sophistication of Ivalice's capital, Lesalia, he couldn't shake the feeling that there was no place quite like home.

Besides, in Goug, most people were too busy working to gossip like clucking hens.

As he had promised his friend, Ramza, during a previous discussion, Mustadio had immersed himself in the study of exoplanets, using the orrery to create "windows" through which he would observe the conditions on those worlds while Construct 8 would "analyze" what he was seeing to provide more detailed information. Though the automaton could do practically nothing without a direct order from whoever it considered to be its "Master", and figuring out what commands it could understand, much less do, had taken a lot of frustrating guesswork, Construct 8 did turn out to be capable of a lot more than crushing the bones of monsters and demons.

The automaton could, for example, determine the temperature, windspeed, and nature of the air of one of the exoplanets in seconds, and with a precision that sent Mustadio's mind awhirl. Using this, he'd spent the past several weeks taking stock of potential candidates, delving into the details of each in order to find the most inaccessible and forbidding place they could send the Holy Stones where they would, hopefully, be forever beyond mortal reach.

Their initial conversation on the subject had taken place in the cozy inn suite in Lesalia, just before the grand wedding of Sir Damien Mitchell and Duchess Catherine Seymour—known to a select few as Izlude Tingel and Alma Beoulve. At that time, Mustadio could only provide a superficial overview of the hostile worlds, as his understanding had been much more limited at the time. However, upon returning to Goug Machine City, he had dedicated himself to extensive research, uncovering a plethora of bizarre exoplanets. After much consideration, he had managed to narrow down the options to a select few that might serve as suitable destinations for the Holy Stones.

Now, as he anxiously awaited the arrival of his friends, the weight of their shared responsibility pressed heavily upon his shoulders. Each Holy Stone was not merely a, supposedly, sacred relic; as both the vessels for the Lucavi's spirits and keys to ancient Ivalician technology, each carried a rich history and a legacy intricately woven into the very fabric of Ivalice's fate. The gravity of their decision – and the ominous possibilities of what might happen if they, like the people of Cloud's world, overlooked something vital – loomed large. There were plenty of hostile exoplanets to choose from, but sending the Stones to one of them was not a foolproof strategy. Choosing the wrong exoplanet, one where life that Mustadio would never recognize as such might flourish unseen or, worse, whose conditions could be overcome by some future explorers, could begin the cycle of blood and carnage all over again.

Therefore, Mustadio had meticulously sought out exoplanets with the most inhospitable conditions, determined to minimize the chances of the Holy Stones ever being recovered. Or, worse, exploiting some unknowing souls to engineer their own escape.

And now, the time had finally come for him to share his findings. As the air seemed to crackle with anticipation, he felt a heady mixture of excitement and trepidation. The choices ahead would not only shape their future but also determine the safety of Ivalice itself. With a deep breath, he prepared himself for the discussions that would follow, anxious but confident that the bonds of friendship and the wisdom of their shared experiences would guide them as they made this critical decision together.

He cast a fleeting glance at the clock hanging on the wall, its hands moving steadily forward with an almost rhythmic precision. A smile crept across his face as he recalled the warmth of their usual camaraderie—the shared laughter, the playful banter, and the treasure trove of memories that intricately wove their lives together. Each familiar face that would soon fill his home was not just a guest; they represented a distinct chapter in his life's narrative, a testament to the resilience that, unsung though it might be, had saved Ivalice from ruin, and the unbreakable bonds forged through trials, sweat, and sacrifice.

As the arrival of Ramza and the others drew nearer, a pang of longing tugged at Mustadio's heart. He wished that their reunion could be under brighter circumstances, perhaps for another joyous celebration rather than a serious gathering aimed at deciding the fate of the Holy Stones…and, likely, the entire mortal realm as well. Proper disposal of these Stones was crucial, not only for their world, but also for other realms, including the one from which Cloud hailed. The threat of the Lucavi rising again to seek revenge loomed large, making the gravity of their meeting all the greater.

Yet, despite the weight of the situation, Mustadio resolved to infuse the gathering with as much warmth and comfort as he could muster. He and his father had taken great care to prepare a spread of food and refreshments, hoping to create a welcoming atmosphere amidst the impending, ominous discussions.

A gentle knock on the door interrupted his thoughts, pulling him back to the present. Mustadio straightened his apron—a small gesture of readiness—before opening the door to find Ramza standing there, exactly as he had anticipated. Ramza was the first to arrive, unsurprisingly, and given the informal nature of the gathering, there was no need for formalities…

…not that that stopped Mustadio from indulging in a bit of teasing.

"Hail to thee, Duke Seymour," he greeted, laughter punctuating his words. "Or, should I call you by your new title, Grandmaster of the Knights of the Chimera?"

Ramza laughed in reply, but held up an admonishing hand when Mustadio looked like he was about to bow.

"Please don't," he said, and breathed a sigh of relief when Mustadio actually listened. "I'm still trying to figure out how I'm going to make that work when Delita also expects me to govern Lionel as well."

Mustadio nodded, understanding that that was a dauting set of responsibilities, but he had faith Ramza was up to the task. And, more to the point, he knew Ramza was the best man for the job. Oh, Delita could have appointed any number of seasoned warriors to the task, and more than a few of these had challenged Ramza to duels over the position only to learn that nepotism had nothing to do with the Duke of Lionel being appointed. But, Ramza had one distinct qualification that few, if any, others had.

He was willing to stand up to Delita if the King of Ivalice crossed the line.

And, though Ramza was treading some deep waters, he was not alone.

He had many friends, and Mustadio was proud to count himself amongst them, who could share his burdens. Still, now was not the time for that, so Mustadio stopped playing around and invited the Duke of Lionel in.

"It smells incredible in here, Mustadio," Ramza remarked, his gaze sweeping over the cozy room before landing on the simmering stew bubbling in a modest pot at the center of the table, which Mustadio had set up in his workshop. "You've really outdone yourself this time. I'm almost tempted to believe you're trying to impress us!"

"Just a humble repast for my friends," Mustadio replied, a playful grin spreading across his face. "I thought we could all use a bit of comfort and warmth before we dive into the weightier matters awaiting us."

Ramza chuckled, the tension that had settled in his shoulders easing as he stepped into the inviting warmth of Mustadio's home.

"You know me all too well. It's truly good to see you again, Mustadio, even if the occasion isn't exactly one for celebration."

"Indeed, my friend," Mustadio replied, closing the door behind Ramza and guiding him further into the snug space. "I hope the others don't take too long. The stew will be just right after it's had the chance to meld those rich flavors a bit longer."

As they settled around the table, Mustadio poured them both refreshing cups of cool water and steaming coffee, the soothing sound of the chilled liquid filling the ceramic vessels providing a brief oasis of calm amidst the brewing storm of their discussions while the heady aroma of the coffee also seemed enough to jolt one free of the lethargy of early morning. Ramza's eyes wandered to the scattered notes that littered the table—dozens of scribbles and intricate diagrams that Mustadio had painstakingly organized. In fact, the normally rough-and-tumble machinist had even taken the pains to make sure his handwriting was clearly legible, which had been a rare occurrence in the past.

Ramza tried not to let that rekindle his concerns about the pending conference.

"It looks like you've been quite busy," Ramza said, leaning closer to examine the chaotic yet methodical array of papers. "I don't think I've ever seen you this focused on anything other than machinery before."

Mustadio let out a light laugh, the sound echoing softly in the stillness of the room. "It's a different kind of machinery, I suppose. A way to ensure that the threads of fate don't weave themselves into something catastrophic…or wind their way back into the same pattern that gave us the War of the Lions. Every world has its own mechanics governing it, just as ours does. I needed to understand how to navigate within those rules to protect what we hold dear. I don't know everything about these exoplanets, and I'd probably need six or seven lifetimes for that, but maybe I know enough."

Just as he finished speaking, a second knock resonated through the air. Mustadio rose to answer, swinging the door open to reveal the familiar figures of Malak, Beowulf, Rad, Izlude, and Olan. Each wore an expression of determination and purpose, and all seemed ready to join the gathering that lay ahead.

"I'm thrilled we could finally gather!" Beowulf exclaimed, his voice resonating with enthusiasm as he stepped into the warm, inviting space, shaking off the lingering chill of the early morning air that clung to him like a reluctant shadow.

"Mustadio, is that the savory scent of stew wafting through the air?" Malak asked, his eyes lighting up as he caught a whiff of the hearty aroma. He could practically taste the rich flavors already. "You truly have a knack for enticing us, don't you?"

"I do what I can to keep my friends well-fed," Mustadio replied, stepping back with a welcoming gesture. His companions quickly gathered around the rustic wooden table that stood at the center of the room. "I knew it would be crucial to discuss my findings with all of you, but I wanted to make sure our stomachs were satisfied first. We mustn't let hunger distract us from making the best possible decision regarding the Holy Stones. We'll only have one chance to get this right, especially since I'm hoping to send the orrery along with the Stones to the chosen planet."

Rad had been taking a quaff of the coffee, but Mustadio's words had caused him to choke on the liquid and spit it back out. Most of the gathered men were promptly soaked, and giving the dark knight dark looks. Looking perturbed himself, the machinist directed the group to settle into their seats.

Still, Rad's faux pas could not change the gravity of their decision, which settled over them like a leaden shroud. Even Rad, who often prioritized his appetite over all else during crucial meetings, found himself stunned by Mustadio's unexpected statement.

"I don't understand. Why include the orrery? A machine that lets you see, and study, other worlds? That seems like the sort of things your wet dreams are made of," his choice of analogy earned him several more dirty looks but, as was often the case, Rad didn't notice. "You've gone on and on about how unique it is and its potential to unlock secrets and worlds beyond our own. Why would you want to send it to some hellscape along with the Stones?" Rad pressed, his brow furrowing in disbelief.

Mustadio inhaled deeply, preparing himself for the questions he knew would follow his declaration.

"The orrery is indeed powerful," he acknowledged. "It's probably the most wondrous machine I've ever seen, or ever will. And, the secrets it could tell us? Ivalice would likely need hundreds, maybe thousands of years to discover them on her own. But, therein lies the problem: with such power comes a significant risk of temptation. Should it fall into the wrong hands, someone could use it to locate the Holy Stones or, worse, manipulate them for their own nefarious purposes. And, even if that doesn't happen, consider what's happening on Cloud's world right now. They have lives of ease that King Delita would be impressed with and technology that we can scarcely imagine, all made possible by a fuel source that even I'm having trouble making sense of. But, this "lucky gift" is killing their world, and even those trying to do something about it have no real plan beyond blowing up the sites where this "fuel" is harvested….and handwaving the people who die in those explosions."

The machinist saw Ramza's jaw tighten at these words. It might've been playing dirty on Mustadio's part, since the concept of rationalizing whatever was needed to achieve the "greater good", no matter how heinous, was a foible Ramza was all too familiar with. Still, he needed to hammer this point home.

"Suppose the orrery falls into the hands of people who can figure out at least some of its uses, but can't use it responsibly?" he intoned, with grave finality. "Maybe some of those worlds out there are lush paradises, but which have their own perils…ones that we might unwittingly bring home with us. Or, for that matter, suppose it's the other way around and we take something there that proves ruinous to that world? No. Ivalice would probably NEED centuries to figure out how that might happen, and how to prevent it. The exoplanets I've identified are inhospitable—harsh and unforgiving environments where survival is impossible. If the orrery is sucked in with them, we will ensure that the Holy Stones can never be returned to our world—or, hopefully, to any other, for that matter."

"One thing," Izlude chimed in. "You keep saying "if" the orrery goes in too. Why?"

"Simple, that thing is HEAVY," Mustadio said matter-of-factly. "Without Construct 8, I wouldn't be able to budge it an inch. And, since I can't actually reach the Stones to send them in, what I'll have to do is project a portal near them that that'll act like a whirlpool that'll suck them in. Suppose the orrery's sheer weight means it stays put while the Stones are sucked through?"

Another oppressive silence settled over the room at Mustadio's somber, and rhetorical, question. Each member of the group exchanged concerned glances, the weight of situation, and the machinist's words, profound and unmistakable, reminding them that, although the War of the Lions had ended, their duty to Ivalice was not yet over. They all understood that Mustadio Bunanza possessed an insatiable thirst for knowledge, and the idea of sacrificing a device as powerful as the orrery in order to ensure it was not misused was not a decision he had made lightly.

Finally, Olan broke the silence, his tone soft yet resolute. "You're willing to relinquish something of such immense value for the sake of safeguarding our world. It speaks to your noble character, Master Mustadio, but it raises a few valid concerns. You say Ivalice MIGHT be a place with people responsible enough to learn to make proper use of such technology centuries from now? Well, suppose they are responsible enough, but that they never learn how to recreate what the orrery can offer? There could be invaluable knowledge or secrets hidden amongst the stars that might help us rebuild our own world, making it stronger than ever, and even turn the tables on the Lucavi. What if Ivalice never learns, on her own, what the orrery can teach her soon, if not now?"

Mustadio nodded, fully aware of the complexity surrounding the dilemma he had presented, and which he himself had been grappling with. "It weighs heavily on my conscience, I assure you. And, any man of science would be in tears at such a notion. But, I feel it's a necessary sacrifice. Sometimes, protecting what we cherish requires us to let go of the very tools that could lead to our downfall. The knowledge we hold is invaluable and should serve as a guiding light for our future, but not if the hands it'll fall into can't be trusted with it. And, either way, we must prioritize the immediate threat posed by the Lucavi and ensure that the Holy Stones never see the light of day again."

"Perhaps you're right," Olan admitted. "But, that does raise another concern. You say the orrery might NOT be sent into the portal. Suppose that happens. Then, what?"

Here, Mustadio could only offer a resigned shrug.

"I'm not sure," he admitted. "There's no guarantee that, for instance, I could open a portal directly under the orrery or that one could be opened long enough for Construct 8 to shove it inside. If it's just not feasible to send the orrery through one of its own portals, then I might be at a loss."

Now, it was Olan's turn to look contemplative…and excited.

"Let's keep an open mind on that score," he suggested. "I might have an alternative, in case it's needed."

Ramza leaned back in his chair, his brow furrowed in concentration. "It's a difficult choice, Mustadio, but I can understand your rationale. Protecting Ivalice is paramount to us, and we cannot take that responsibility lightly. We must carefully weigh our options and discuss the implications of each potential outcome."

The others nodded in agreement, the all-too-familiar sense of unity and camaraderie taking root amongst them once again as they contemplated the monumental choice ahead. The room buzzed with a shared urgency, each member lost in their thoughts about what was truly at stake.

"First things first," Mustadio began, turning to Izlude. "Has the Pisces Stone been delivered to Lionel Castle?"

"Yes," Izlude confirmed. "Alma and I took a…slight detour to Lionel Castle and I dropped off the Stone with the others in the tower."

"How DID you get it in there, though?" Malak asked. "Those wards we created, to scare off anyone who got too close? I swear, I sprouted my first gray hair just looking at that door."

"I sprouted a few myself. I had to settle for opening the door and then throwing the Stone inside."

"And, it didn't…try anything?" Ramza asked, seeming puzzled.

"No, and that surprised me too. I'm not sure how to put into words what I sensed from the Pisces Stone just before I threw it in, but it was almost like…resignation. Maybe the Stone regretted that the journey was over, or that it failed to enthrall King Delita. It didn't seem panicked or desperate, though. It did nothing to try and stop me. But, that COULD have been because it didn't understand enough about our plan to appreciate the risk."

"Or, the Stone's confident that it would be just a temporary setback?" Rad suggested grimly.

"I can't prove it either way," Izlude admitted, sighing. "I guess all we can do is carry on with our plan and hope for the best."

The others nodded and stoically regarded the notes Mustadio had written.

"So, how do you plan on sending the Stones through?" Beowulf asked. "The wards placed around the room where the others are hidden are quite powerful, and the orrery is probably too bulky to be shoved through the door anyway."

"You're right," Mustadio admitted. "I have a theory about how to get around that, though."

Here, he produced a sheet of paper, upon which was an incredibly precise diagram of the room at the topmost tower of Lionel Castle, where the Stones were hidden, complete with such measurements as how far from the door was the Stones' enclosure and how high off the floor it was. Additional notes included how high off the ground all that was, as well as in which direction, based off the compass that had been working its way into the pockets of Ivalice's mariners.

"We can't reach the Stones, but maybe the portal can," Mustadio said. "First, I'll need to figure out how to cause the portal to open at the exact spot we need. Then, since we can't go in and take the Stones because of the wards, that means the portal will need to be able to suck in what's around it, not unlike a tornado or a whirlpool."

"…isn't that likely to bring the whole castle down on our heads?" Ramza asked, sounding leery.

"If it's done wrong, then yes. In fact, if it's done badly enough, the portal could suck in the whole castle…or the whole province. So, that leads to the third issue: making sure the portal only sucks in what we need it to suck in. All that would require translating the ancient Ivalician language on the controls, as well as their measurement and numerical system, followed by testing to make sure that the portals can be placed where they need to be and have only as much force as would be needed. Even optimistically, that could take several years of work and discreet testing."

Ramza was more than a little worried about just how the "testing" might go. The machinist had often said that, in the sciences, "failure is always an option", which the Duke of Lionel had learned meant that mistakes, although instructive, were inevitable.

Was it also inevitable that he'd soon have to explain away the disappearance of ragged swaths of the Balias Swale, or sizable patches of the Tchigolith Fenlands?

Hopefully, he and Mustadio could come to an agreement about how best he could perform his "tests" without causing a panic.

"Well, that's way over my head," Rad admitted, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the table. "But, these potential worlds? Maybe if we go over what Mustadio's found out about them, if we can understand what each world is like, and how the Stones might be safe there, it may help us make the best choice about where to send them."

Mustadio's face lit up with appreciation. "Exactly, Rad. I've compiled detailed notes on each planet that I believe we could send the Stones and be assured of their isolation, if not their complete destruction. Let's begin with the first candidate." He reached for a stack of meticulously organized papers, his heart racing with anticipation as he prepared to share his findings, each word holding the potential to shape the destiny of all gathered and of Ivalice herself.

Mustadio carefully laid out the first page of his meticulously organized notes, revealing an astonishing illustration of a pitch-black exoplanet illuminated by a faint, amber glow. This celestial body, known only to him and his father, Besrodio, was a mystery waiting to be unraveled. As the sole custodian of the orrery aside from his father, Mustadio felt a profound sense of duty to name the exoplanets he discovered through this remarkable instrument, knowing that few, if any, in their world could fathom their existence.

"This planet is what I'm tentatively calling a "gas giant"," he announced, his voice echoing with enthusiasm. "In the plainest terms, it's a world composed entirely of various gasses that have coalesced into a gigantic mass that has no solid surface, but which is roiled by powerful storms and where, below the surface, the pressure greatly increases, not unlike how there's more and more pressure below the surface of the ocean. I have named this one TrES-2b *1*. It is one of the darkest planets I've ever seen, reflecting less than one percent of the light that strikes its surface. The overwhelming absence of light means that any attempts to penetrate its depths would be futile, even with the orrery. The temperatures there can soar to a staggering one thousand degrees Celsius, while the atmospheric pressure exceeds what any known living creature could endure. I suspect that the Holy Stones would remain perpetually concealed within its swirling clouds, held beneath the depths by the sheer gravity holding the world together, and forever shrouded from prying eyes."

Beowulf leaned closer, his curiosity piqued, and remarked, "Sounds like a place where nothing could survive."

"Exactly," Mustadio replied, invigorated by the intrigue sparking in Beowulf's voice. "The conditions on TrES-2b are so extreme that even the fabled machines from Ivalician antiquity would either melt like wax or be crushed like glass. It's as if the very atmosphere conspires to guard its secrets jealously. Should the Holy Stones be cast into its tempestuous embrace, the chances of retrieval would be virtually nonexistent. Not just because no one could reach them, but because the Stones would be unable to escape the gravity and drift to who-knows-where."

A hush fell over the group as they absorbed the weight of Mustadio's words. He noted the intensity in their expressions, each friend grappling with the implications of their choices. A shared understanding blossomed among them as they recognized the gravity of their responsibility—not just for the Holy Stones, but for the very fabric of their world.

"Let's hear about the next one," Izlude urged, eager to sustain the momentum of their discussion.

Mustadio nodded, flipping to the next page with a sense of anticipation. The illustration that emerged depicted a vivid red planet, its surface marred by a multitude of volcanoes and rivers of molten lava.

"This planet, I have named 55 Cancri E *2*," he explained, his voice steady. "It is primarily composed of carbon and appears to possess a surface that's almost entirely molten. Think Mount Bervenia and the lava fields surrounding it, but hundreds of times hotter and spanning an entire world."

Recalling Ivalice's most prominent volcano, Cloud's inexplicable insistence they travel there, the even-less-explicable presence of the strange "Materia Blade" at the summit, and how Ramza's motley band had all sworn they'd sooner dine on pufferfish daily than travel within ten leagues of that fiery hellscape again, all shuddered.

"Yeah, I didn't like using that analogy either," Mustadio admitted. "Still, the inhospitable conditions create a hellish landscape characterized by flowing lava and extreme temperatures that can exceed two thousand degrees Celsius. Not to mention that all the volcanic activity means the air is saturated with poisonous fumes. To attempt a landing here would result in fiery demise—a fitting grave for the Holy Stones, where their power could be eternally consumed by the flames."

"Such a hellish place," Malak murmured, his brow furrowed in contemplation. "But the question remains: would it be completely inaccessible? Could anyone or anything endure the heat long enough to locate the Stones?"

Mustadio paused, considering. "Precisely, Malak. The extreme temperatures and relentless eruptions on 55 Cancri E create a hostile environment where survival is practically impossible. The volcanism on this planet likely generates dust clouds that trap heat, creating a self-sustaining furnace. Any unfortunate soul caught in its grasp would be incinerated almost instantaneously, even before they could start choking to death on the sulfurous fumes. Thus, the likelihood of anyone discovering the Holy Stones here is nearly nonexistent."

The group leaned in closer, captivated by Mustadio's vivid descriptions and the striking illustrations that accompanied his powerful narratives. These moments—the sharing of thoughts, the work of pooling what wisdom they had to ponder of their fate, the illumination of potential solutions, and the nigh contagious wonderment of learning such fascinating information—made the weight of their burdens feel a little lighter, if only for a fleeting instant.

"Alright, Mustadio, you've convinced me about the first two candidates," Rad declared, a spark of determination igniting in his eyes. "But we need more options. What else do you have to show us?"

With renewed energy, Mustadio eagerly flipped through his notes. "I have several more exoplanets to discuss, each presenting its own unique environments that should be able to keep the Stones hidden. While I believe any one of them could serve our purpose well, I think it best if we pour over the information about each and decide together." His fingers danced over the pages until he settled on another illustration, this one depicting a striking blue planet engulfed in swirling storms.

"This next one I call HD 189733b *3*," he explained. "It is dominated by violent winds and relentless storms, with gusts reaching speeds of over 8,700 kilometers per hour. The atmosphere is a chaotic maelstrom of clouds, glass rain, and lightning, rendering it entirely inhospitable to life as we know it. Any endeavor to locate the Holy Stones here would be fraught with brutal challenges, not to mention the sheer impossibility of navigating such ferocious weather conditions."

As Mustadio finished his explanation, the group exchanged glances, each contemplating the daunting task that lay ahead. Mustadio's early revelation about exoplanets had been a hint that the realm of creation was vast, filled with perilous mysteries. Still, this was threatening to become overwhelming. Suppose Mustadio had overlooked some avenue that the Stones could use to engineer their own escape, or another exoplanet that would hold them more securely? Still, they shook it off, determined to find the best tomb for the Stones that had nearly undone Ivalice.

"Sounds like a nightmare," Beowulf remarked, raising an eyebrow in a mix of awe and concern. "But it certainly appears to be an ideal hiding place for the Stones. Anyone bold enough to try and brave that terrain would likely never return."

"Precisely," Mustadio replied, his voice afire with enthusiasm. "The tumultuous climate would turn any search into a perilous mission. The relentless storms would consume anyone who dared to enter, leaving not a scrap of evidence behind. It's the perfect sanctuary for the Holy Stones, ensuring they remain far beyond the reach of our world."

"Alright, besides planets of extreme heat, raging winds, and violent storms, what else do you have?" Malak pressed, intrigued and eager for more details.

Mustadio grinned, appreciating Malak's zeal for knowledge. He turned to the next page of his notes, revealing an image of a planet enveloped in icy blue.

"This one is Gliese 1214b *4*," he announced. "It's predominantly a water world, shrouded by a thick, unyielding layer of ice. The frigid temperatures here render survival impossible, even for the most resilient of creatures. Below the icy facade lies a vast ocean, where the depths create crushing pressures that far exceed anything you'd find here. The chances of anyone discovering the Holy Stones in such an environment are virtually nonexistent. Even if they managed to land and survive the cold, there'd still be the problem of penetrating the thick layers of ice covering the ocean, withstanding the pressures beneath the surface, and actually finding the Stones in that ocean. To my eye, the Stones would be kept hidden beneath layers of frozen water which, in turn, would be protected by impossibly cold weather, safe from prying eyes."

The group fell into a contemplative silence, each member grappling with the stunning imagery Mustadio had painted of this newly revealed world. The tangible chill of Gliese 1214b seemed to seep into their thoughts, a fitting backdrop for both the frigid world and the burden they carried.

"I can understand why you selected these planets, Mustadio," Ramza finally broke the quiet, leaning back in his chair with a look of admiration. "Each one poses its own distinct challenges, almost as if they are natural fortresses designed to protect the Holy Stones."

"Exactly," Mustadio replied, his chest swelling with pride at the recognition of his hard work. "I believe the inhospitable conditions across these worlds will ensure that the Holy Stones remain lost to time while simultaneously sealing away the Lucavi's power forever. Humans would be unable to reach them and, with these planets unable to sustain life as we know it, there'd be nothing there the Stones could exploit. However, we must remain vigilant and not overlook any potential risks that might arise from our decision to send them away."

"Now that sounds rather extreme," Olan commented, his eyebrows furrowing as he contemplated the implications. "A place where even the strongest machinery from St. Ajora's time would disintegrate... It's a hauntingly perfect choice, isn't it? Yet, the very essence of such a planet makes it difficult to even visualize. What would navigating such treacherous terrain even entail? Would it be a reckless gamble to even consider sending the Holy Stones there?"

Mustadio nodded in emphatic agreement, his eyes gleaming with conviction. "Indeed, it would be a gamble. However, I believe it's a risk worth taking. That actually brings me to this next exoplanet that I call PSR B125712 B *5*, or Poltergeist for short. The planet is saturated with extremely powerful radiation that-"

"Wait, hold up!" Rad blurted, looking baffled. "What the hell is "radiation"?"

Mustadio opened his mouth to answer, but then his expression wavered as he considered the question, and he gave a self-deprecating chuckle.

"That'd…take way too long to explain," he admitted. "And, I only know bits and pieces about it myself. I picked up the term from my peeks at Cloud's world. Apparently, it's a well-known phenomenon there, and even one they can manipulate to some degree. But, for the purpose of this discussion, it's a form of energy that comes in many variations and intensities. Some of the people on Cloud's world can use the less potent forms, in a controlled fashion, to heal tumors."

Jaws promptly dropped. Tumors had been observed sporadically in Ivalice's history and, even after they were attributed to earthly ailments rather than demonic affliction, neither science nor magic had found a way to combat them. And yet, Mustadio's use of the orrery had, once again, turned what seemed sure knowledge on its head.

"But," Mustadio began again, perhaps a bit too soon for his thunderstruck audience, "the if it's used carelessly, or is someone is exposed to the more powerful forms of radiation without protection…well, that's a whole different story. That stuff can horribly disfigure a human, outside AND inside, and kill them. And, unlike just bursting into flames before you even have the chance to realize you feel hot, like on 55 Cancri E, you'd go slowly. And, painfully."

"Well, I doubted I was going to get much sleep tonight anyway," Ramza said, shaking his head in disbelief.

"Too busy with your new post, or did Agrias decide she DOES want to give Rachel a sibling or two after all?" Malak chimed in, all too eager to shift the course of this discussion for a moment.

"Oh, shut up!"

"But, to get back on topic?" Mustadio asked, to which he received grim, reluctant nods. "The radioactive nature of Poltergeist is precisely what makes it an ideal candidate for our purpose. Anything that dares to approach would be horrifically deformed and would die long before the Stones could make use of them. And, even if that wasn't a problem, the gravity there is so strong that anyone who landed there would be crushed to pulp. So, surely the Holy Stones would find their final resting place there—lost forever, untouched by mortal hands, curious or malevolent."

The group fell into a contemplative silence, each man struggling to process Mustadio's words. The atmosphere, in a distant reflection of some of the worlds they'd been discussing, seemed to thicken until it would not pass their lips. Mingled hope and uncertainty was thick in the air, causing the pulse to race with urgency and trepidation as the weight of their monumental decision loomed large. Every planet they discussed represented not merely a hiding place for the Auracite, but a dread wonder that would turn Ivalice's most advanced thinking on its head.

Still, they were unwavering in their commitment to safeguard the world they cherished, and so they'd make that choice.

"Mustadio, you've impressed me in the past, but now I'm truly at a loss for words," Ramza remarked, gratitude lacing his voice. "This is all amazing. I am curious about one thing, though. You also mentioned planets that are essentially vast oceans, with no solid ground. Can you elaborate on that?"

"Of course," Mustadio responded with enthusiasm, eager to share his insights. He produced another page, this one depicting an intricate illustration of a planet resembling a globe adorned with swirling blue hues. "This is what I've dubbed TOI-733b—a water world enveloped entirely by a deep, turbulent ocean. The surface of this planet is wracked by constant waves and violent storms, either of which would likely flood half this continent. This renders any form of exploration nearly impossible. The depths remain largely a mystery. Aside from the sheer size of the ocean, the pressures beneath the surface are so intense that anything attempting to descend would be crushed. Furthermore, the fierce currents would sweep any vessel away into any number of the whirlpools that form there by the dozens. In essence, TOI-733b *6* is not merely a fortress but a prison for the Holy Stones. They would sink into its ocean depths, lost among a vast expanse of water that is as deadly as it is beautiful. The waves would easily conceal them, and any attempt to retrieve them would end in certain death."

Rad leaned forward, his curiosity piqued. "That does sound like a perfect hiding place. If the conditions there are as bad as you say, it's hard to believe anything could even breach the surface, let alone locate such treasures beneath the waves."

"Exactly," Mustadio replied, his excitement growing as he elaborated. "The relentless storms and crushing depths of TOI-733b would ensure that the Holy Stones remain hidden. Even if someone were to embark on a search, it'd be suicide. It's an ideal place to safeguard their power and keep them out of reach from those who might misuse them."

"Wow..." Izlude breathed, still grappling with the concept. "It's difficult to fathom that such worlds exist—worlds so inhospitable that no form of life could survive, let alone thrive."

Mustadio beamed, his enthusiasm palpable. "You don't even know the half of it, Izlude. In addition to planets with extreme heat, cold, radiation, and deep water, there's also one that experiences literal acid rain capable of melting metal, not to mention flesh from bones. I call this WASP-121b *7*. It orbits a gas giant, not unlike TrES-2b, but this is a hot gas giant—on top of TrES-2b's hazards, it also had an incredibly high surface temperature, due to its proximity to its sun. The atmosphere is rich in various elements that react violently under those conditions, creating storms of molten metal and intense deluges of acid rain. Any attempt to enter its atmosphere, let alone land there, would be a death sentence."

Gasps of disbelief echoed around the table, the weight of Mustadio's words leaving them breathless as they absorbed the reality of such a nightmarish world. Each friend exchanged glances, grappling with the sheer ferocity of what the machinist was describing.

"Acid rain? Molten metal?" Beowulf shook his head, a blend of astonishment and grim admiration coloring his tone. "That's unnerving, to say the least. It's hard to imagine a place so hostile that life couldn't even take root there. But it certainly fits our needs."

Mustadio nodded, invigorated by the discussion. "Exactly! WASP-121b would serve as an ideal grave for the Holy Stones. Even if we can't destroy them outright, sending them to any one of these worlds would accomplish the same end: ensuring that no one could ever reach them again. The very notion of exploring such a planet is ludicrous; even getting close enough to these worlds would be a death sentence. The ferocity of its storms would deter any potential seekers, shrouding the Holy Stones in a veil of molten destruction."

"Every option you've presented sounds increasingly terrifying," Olan admitted, wiping away a bead of sweat that had managed to form on his brow despite the cool air. "But that only reaffirms the gravity of our situation. We must choose wisely, or risk losing everything we've fought to protect."

Mustadio nodded solemnly, acknowledging Olan's reminder to refocus the group. "Each of these planets represents a different kind of peril, but they all share the same purpose: to ensure that the Holy Stones are never found, or misused, again. We need to consider each option carefully and weigh the long-term implications of our choice."

"Alright, so we jot down the pros and cons of each candidate," Rad suggested, the analytical side of his usually lewd and blunt nature surfacing. "Weighing the potential risks and benefits until one comes out on top. That way, we see which option best fits our ultimate goal of safeguarding Ivalice."

"Excellent idea," Mustadio agreed, eagerly drumming his fingers on the table as he looked around at the group. "Let's create a list. Each planet has its unique dangers, but we must still account for the chances that they may not be able to safeguard the Stones permanently."

The mood shifted as the friends grew serious, delving deeper into the brainstorming session. So too did their focus and determination deepen, as each contributed their insights and recalled the battles they had fought, the lives that had been lost to the Lucavi's machinations, and the futures they hoped to protect. As they engaged in this crucial task, the weight of their responsibility loomed above them like a dark shadow, but a flicker of hope also crackled to life—a shared resolve to honor their past and secure the future.

"Let's start with TrES-2b," Rad proposed, his quill scratching against the parchment as he meticulously recorded their insights. "On the positive side, this planet is remarkably dark and inhospitable, creating an environment that would mean anybody'd have a helluva time exploring it. But, there's the rub. Since it's so dark, we don't know all that much about it—what if there are phenomena or elements there that we just can't see, or wouldn't understand even if we did? What if there is more to this world than just its hostile conditions?"

"That's a great point, Rad. Moving on to 55 Cancri E," Mustadio interjected, enthusiasm evident in his voice as he sought to maintain the momentum of their discussion. "This planet's extreme temperatures and active volcanic landscape are certainly advantages, ensuring that no life could possibly thrive there. The cons, however, rest in the unpredictable nature of volcanic eruptions. What if the Stones were to become a part of an eruption instead of remaining hidden? If one of these eruptions were to propel the Stones free of the planet, then who can say where they'd end up next?"

"I understand what you mean," Izlude chimed in, nodding thoughtfully as he joined the conversation. "It's crucial that we approach this with forethought. Next on our list is HD 189733b. While the planet's violent storms and fierce winds could serve as a protective barrier, we face the same problem you just mentioned: the potential for sudden and extreme weather patterns to undo our work. Suppose the Stones can use one of those storms to escape that world?"

"Absolutely," Malak concurred, adding his own thoughts to the mix. "We also need to take Gliese 1214b into account. The frigid temperatures and relentless ice are certainly advantages, but we must not discount the possibility that life does exist there. Most Ivalicians wouldn't last a day living in Zeklaus Desert, but my forefathers learned how. We also sometimes hear of creatures in arctic climes that can thrive where anything else would freeze to death overnight. Suppose, by similar token, there's creatures that have adapted to thrive in such harsh environments and the weather just hid them from view? Suppose that life is something the Stones can exploit?"

Mustadio nodded vigorously, jotting down their concerns with fervor. "That's a valid point, Malak. The unknown can indeed pose a greater danger than what we already know. Let's make sure to include that in our considerations as we move forward."

As they systematically worked through each candidate planet, their discussions unfolded like an intricate puzzle being riddled out step by step—each detail meticulously examined and scrutinized. The atmosphere in the room buzzed with ideas and spirited debates, the sound of their shared resolve seeming to charge the air with their staunch refusal to fail.

"Now, let's turn our attention to Poltergeist," Mustadio said, pausing for dramatic effect as he gauged their reactions. "The advantages are evident: aside from the intense radiation, the gravity of the planet is so extreme that anything that gets close enough would be crushed. Together, these, conditions render it inhospitable for any form of life. However, we must consider the potential downsides as well. The enigmatic nature of such planets, in and of itself, raises questions—could there be elements or forces we are entirely unaware of that might complicate our goal? Can we truly predict the behavior of something as chaotic as this?"

The group nodded in understanding, their focus unwavering as Mustadio continued to navigate through the complexities of their choices. "Next on our agenda is TOI-733b," he said, scanning the table for reactions. "The fierce ocean and extreme storms could present an ideal hiding spot for the Holy Stones. But, once again, we need to ponder the depths—while the surface is undeniably treacherous, what if there is life below those treacherous currents? What if something lies beneath the waves, which the Stones can turn to their advantage?"

The room fell into a contemplative silence, each member of the group weighing the implications of their discussions. With each candidate world they analyzed, the complexities of their undertaking grew more profound. The stakes were high, and every consideration mattered in the pursuit of their goal. But, that did nothing to change the pertinent fact: there likely was no perfect solution, not when simple ignorance of what they just couldn't understand or the limitations of the orrery could mean failure.

"WASP-121b is next on our agenda," Rad interjected, slicing through the quiet tension that had settled over the group. "The acid rain and molten landscape are pretty forbidding, and no mistake. However, I think there's an issue we've all overlooked. Can the orrery send the Stones to planets like these at all? With things being so extreme on the other end, what happens if it fouls up the orrery and the Stones either get sent somewhere else entirely…or right back here?"

"That's a very valid point, Rad," Olan concurred, his expression serious. "Aside from making sure these portals can be opened to these exoplanets, we need to adopt a meticulous approach in evaluating each potential planet, weighing both the risks and rewards associated with sending the Holy Stones to a world that might very well obliterate them. The stakes are monumental, and any misstep could have dire consequences."

"Hold on a second—what about that other planet you mentioned back in Lesalia?" Ramza interjected, his curiosity piqued. "The one you described as the hottest due to its proximity to its parent star, where life is practically impossible? Kelt-9b, was it?" *8*

Mustadio's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm at the mention of the planet. He turned to Ramza, a grin spreading across his face.

Another interesting fact about Kelt-9b is how quickly it travels around its star. It completes an orbit in just one day! Imagine a planet zipping around its star in the same time it takes for us to go to work and come home. This rapid orbit contributes to its extreme temperatures and creates a relentless and unforgiving atmosphere. The intense heat and the heavy elements found in the atmosphere make it impossible for any form of life—at least as we understand it—to survive there. So, if you're hoping to find any life forms on Kelt-9b, you'll be out of luck!

The conditions on Kelt-9b are akin to a cosmic oven, where everything is cooked to a crisp. With temperatures so high and an atmosphere filled with heavy elements, any potential for life is extinguished before it even has a chance to exist. In this inhospitable setting, even hypothetical treasures—like the so-called Holy Stones mentioned in a more whimsical context—would have no hope of surviving the extreme conditions. Thus, Kelt-9b stands as a stark reminder of the diverse and often extreme environments that exist in our universe beyond Earth.

"Yes! Kelt-9b is indeed an excellent candidate!" He quickly flipped through his notes, his excitement palpable as he prepared to delve into his findings. "Kelt-9b is one of the hottest exoplanets I've ever cataloged, with surface temperatures soaring to an astonishing 4,600 degrees Celsius. This scorching heat is so intense that it can vaporize metals, precluding any potential for life. Another interesting fact about Kelt-9b is how quickly it travels around its star. It completes an orbit in just one day! Imagine a planet zipping around its star in the same time it takes for us to go to work and come home. This rapid orbit contributes to its extreme temperatures and creates a relentless and unforgiving atmosphere. The intense heat and the heavy elements found in the atmosphere make it impossible for any form of life—at least as we understand it—to survive there, let alone uncover the Holy Stones, assuming they're not destroyed outright first."

The group leaned in closer, captivated by Mustadio's vivid portrayal. The notion of a world so hostile that it could obliterate anything that came near it in mere moments was both terrifying and oddly comforting.

"Pros: the extreme heat and inhospitable atmosphere would effectively ensure that the Holy Stones remain untouched," Mustadio continued, jotting down notes with fervor. "Cons: if we consider sending them there, we must make sure that the orrery can, in fact, open a portal there at all. With such brutal conditions on the other end, we'll need to make sure the orrery doesn't suffer some sort of breakdown trying to open a portal there. Any failure in our approach could lead to catastrophic consequences."

"Let's make sure that's added to our list of options," Ramza said, nodding thoughtfully. "Kelt-9b sounds like a viable alternative, though it comes with its own set of challenges. Beyond its hostile environment, we also need to weigh the logistics of safely delivering the Stones there. Aside from making sure the orrery can handle opening the portal in the first place, there's the risk it might not keep some of that heat from getting through to our side."

The discussion continued, growing deeper and more engaging as the group explored their possibilities. Mustadio's passion illuminated the complexities of their mission, drawing them into a shared vision. The camaraderie among them, long since having blossomed into a palpable force, now became as lush and resilient as the forest that grew back after having been burned to cinders, fortifying their resolve as they carefully weighed their options.

"All right, everyone," Mustadio said after an exhaustive examination of the potential planets, "we've covered nearly all the candidates I've discovered using the orrery. I think it's time we take a step back and reflect on how we truly feel about each option. What resonates with each of you? Which set of risks sounds like the one worth taking to safeguard our world? And, we have to choose wisely because, ultimately, whether the Stones eventually free themselves or not, we'll have only once chance at this."

The atmosphere shifted once again, becoming more contemplative as each member took a moment to assess the magnitude of their decision. Their glances flitted between sketches and notes, mirroring the inner turmoil as they recalled the lives lost in Ivalice's latest brush with ruin, the battles fought while the Lucavi looked on in amusement, and the uncertain future that lay ahead.

"I think sending the Holy Stones to Kelt-9b is the best choice," Rad spoke first, his voice steady yet introspective. "If its environment is as hostile as you say, and there's no life whatsoever, then I say it comes out on top. Besides, with all the crap these Stones have pulled, suckering troubled people in to manipulate them, it seems fitting to send them to a place where there's nothing for them to exploit."

"I share your sentiment," Olan added, leaning forward with palpable conviction. "Kelt-9b stands as a likely candidate, as well as a fitting expression of our commitment to preventing history from repeating itself. By sending the Holy Stones to such a location, we take a decisive step toward securing our future. We owe it to those killed through the Stones' manipulations, and those possessed by them, to ensure no one else shares their fate."

"That's a compelling argument, Olan," Beowulf chimed in, nodding vigorously. "However, I'm also intrigued by the potential of WASP-121b. The acid rain and volatile storms would bury the Stones amidst chaos even they could not leash and bend to their will—a fitting end for such powerful artifacts. There's an almost poetic quality to it; even if the Stones cannot be destroyed, their being imprisoned in the chaos they so love, but can no longer control, would be a fitting irony."

Mustadio nodded attentively, taking in their perspectives. "I can appreciate the allure of both Kelt-9b and WASP-121b. Each option offers a unique sense of finality and ensures that the Holy Stones remain out of reach for those who would seek to exploit them. But let's not dismiss the other candidates either—planets like TOI-733b and Gliese 1214b have their own merits to consider as well."

With the conversation flowing, the group prepared to delve deeper into each option. Izlude leaned back in his chair, his brow furrowed with contemplation. "While I certainly recognize the intriguing attributes of Kelt-9b and WASP-121b, I find myself drawn to the concept of TOI-733b. I'm honestly not sure I can put the reason into words, though. Perhaps it's the haunting beauty of a world completely enveloped in a fathomless ocean. The other planets might, MIGHT, destroy the Stones outright, but we may never know for certain. However, the sheer vastness of that sea's depths presents itself as the ultimate hiding place—a sanctuary where the Holy Stones could quietly drift into obscurity, forever lost beneath the waves. Even if they could reach out to other would-be hosts, anyone who tried to answer would surely succumb to the crushing pressure of the ocean."

Rad nodded thoughtfully, his expression reflecting a mix of admiration and concern. "The allure of mystery. Yeah, I can appreciate that. Especially the kinds that wear silk and wiggle their hips. Oh, don't glare at me like that! Still, an ocean as big as the one on TOI-733b could hold its own secrets. Even with the orrery, there's no way in hell we could know EVERYTHING that's down there. What if there really is life on that planet? Just because it's not likely doesn't mean it can't happen. We turned the odds on their heads all the time during the war."

"That's a valid point," Malak interjected, crossing his arms as he considered the implications. "On the face of it, Kelt-9b's hostile environment guarantees that nothing—no resilient machine or creature—could survive there. It seems we are gravitating toward choices that present some level of risk, not to mention spitting in the eye of the Lucavi, rather than absolute destruction. Calculated risks can be manageable, but Kelt-9b feels like an impenetrable fortress—unyielding and undeniably final."

"Exactly," Mustadio agreed, his enthusiasm ignited by the spirited discussion. "The unpredictability of life can indeed be overwhelming, and sending the Holy Stones to a location where life cannot possibly thrive simplifies the issue significantly. Kelt-9b offers us the certainty that they will be irrevocably lost to time—no chance of recovery or misuse, ever. That assurance aligns perfectly with our mission. Besides, what could be a better way to rub the Lucavi's noses in it than sending the Stones somewhere they'd be useless? And powerless?"

Ramza, his voice steady and resolute, added, "Then it seems we are reaching a consensus. Kelt-9b is the best choice: it is inhospitable, inescapable, and would effectively conceal the Holy Stones beneath its searing surface. This decision not only safeguards Ivalice, but also offers closure to those who lost their lives to the Lucavi's machinations and those who sacrificed so much to protect this land. We owe it to them to ensure that such dangerous power is never wielded again."

A profound sense of unity, and finality, fell over the group as they absorbed Ramza's words. Mustadio noticed the resolve solidifying in their faces as the consensus began to take shape. With each passing moment, they were edging closer to a decision that would bear monumental important to their futures, as well as that of Ivalice herself.

"Let's formalize our decision, then," Mustadio proposed, his heart racing with anticipation. "Kelt-9b shall be our destination for the Holy Stones. However, I must caution you that this won't happen overnight. Like I said, there's still a lot to learn about the orrery's functions before I can use it to create a portal that will safely send the Holy Stones to Kelt-9b. The challenge lies in ensuring that we only send the Stones, and possibly the orrery itself, through the portal without inadvertently transporting the entire province along with them."

The weight of Mustadio's words hung heavily in the air, resonating deeply with each of his friends. The gravity of their decision settled upon them, stirring a potent mixture of relief and apprehension as they contemplated their next steps.

"Then we must prepare ourselves," Ramza stated, his voice forthright and unwavering. "Before we can move forward, we need to find a way for Mustadio to experiment with the orrery, but without causing a panic. Like he said, if huge craters start explicably appearing all over the countryside where people will find them, and realize they weren't there the day before, they might get alarmed. And, even if the testing stays secret, figuring out how to use the orrery the way we need to could take years. But, it may be our only opportunity to ensure that the Holy Stones are forever beyond reach."

"Absolutely," Mustadio replied, a fiery determination igniting within him. "Once I have mastered the mechanics of the orrery, we will reconvene—ready to execute our plan and send the Stones to Kelt-9b. However, since the orrery will have to be activated INSIDE Lionel Castle, we should make sure it's empty when that happens. Just in case."

The atmosphere in the room crackled with renewed purpose, a determination forged in the crucible of war. Each friend felt the weight of their decision, but there was solace in the knowledge that, however ominous the future might be, none of them would face it alone.

Ramza stood, his demeanor radiating confidence and resolve. "Then let's make the necessary arrangements. The Holy Stones will remain secure at Lionel Castle until you are ready, Mustadio. I have complete faith in your abilities to riddle out the orrery and its inner workings. And, whatever you need to move it about and test it, you need only ask."

The others nodded in affirmation as well. Malak chimed in that Favoham had a number of isolated nooks and crannies that could be used for testing, assuming the orrery could be transported by sea. Ramza also mentioned that, if the orrery could be transported overland, then the Zeklaus Desert would be an excellent place to test the machine. After all, with so many sand dunes to see, who would notice that one or two of them had gone missing? Olan, meanwhile, added that he had some thoughts about what could be done to safeguard the orrery if it simply couldn't be sent through one of its own portals. The machinist was buoyed by their support.

As the afternoon wore on, and the group was certain they'd done all they could for the time being, laughter began to punctuate the air once more. As the gravity of their earlier discussions finally lightened, tales from their past adventures filled the room, rekindling cherished memories of battles fought and victories won. Mustadio felt a warmth blossom within him as he finally posed a question that had lingered in the back of his mind for some time now, one that had waited patiently for its moment amidst the pressing importance of deciding where to send the Holy Stones.

"Izlude... I apologize for not asking sooner, but how have you and Alma been faring? She's, what, six months along now?" he asked.

Izlude's face illuminated with mingled pride and joy at the mention of Alma. "Yes, she is indeed," he replied, a smile breaking across his features. "It's hard to believe that just a few months ago we were standing at the altar, and now we're on the brink of welcoming new life into the world. Our home is still new, but it feels more vibrant than ever, filled with laughter and anticipation. Each day brings its own set of challenges, but with Alma by my side, I know we can face anything that comes our way."

Rad leaned forward, a genuine curiosity sparkling in his eyes. "Have you settled on any names yet? I can only imagine how thrilling that must be!"

Izlude let out a soft chuckle, a warm blush spreading across his cheeks as he spoke. "We have a few ideas in mind, but we're still having quite the lively debate. We want the name to hold deep significance—something that truly reflects our journey together, and the love that binds us. Alma has been particularly enthusiastic about selecting a name that resonates with our family's history and legacy."

"Whatever you ultimately choose, I'm confident it will be perfect," Olan replied, his voice warm and reassuring as he nodded in agreement. "I've only heard bits and pieces of the tale myself, but it seems the story you and Alma share would be one for the ages, if you didn't have to keep it all secret."

Izlude flushed at the praise, and needed a moment to regain his composure.

"Thanks, Olan," he finally said. "I just hope I'm up to being a father. I think that Manon and Charlotte have warmed up to me quite a bit, but I haven't had nearly as much practice with them as Alma has. And, even if I did, neither of them are babes in arms."

Nods of understanding were his only reply. Getting a castle full of stepchildren was hardly part of the plan when Izlude asked Alma to be his wife on that day in Riovanes, but he was looking forward to it, nonetheless. Aside from how meeting his wife's unlikely wards had much enhanced his eagerness for fatherhood, he also knew that these particular children had ended up on Alma's doorstep because the Lucavi and their proxies had gutted the Lionel workhouses to finance their hunt for the Taurus Stone.

Izlude may not have had a direct hand in that, but he knew he'd been one of those proxies, albeit on a different part of the gameboard. And, as was the case in Gollund, he wanted to do what he could to rectify what those proxies had done.

"Just don't turn into a doormat for the little one," Rad chimed in. "Or, the missus, for that matter. Ramza's plenty in that regard."

Ramza rolled his eyes but chuckled, his thoughts drifting back to his wife, Agrias, and their four-month-old daughter, Rachel. "I suppose that's true," he replied, a smile creeping onto his face as he thought of the family he never expected but cherished nonetheless. "But I must say. I never imagined I could love someone so completely. I wouldn't trade Agrias or Rachel for anything."

"Not even your dignity?" Malak asked cheekily, recalling how Ramza had nearly broken-down crying after a pregnant, and furious, Agrias had made some very colorful threats after he'd proven quite terrible at massaging her aching back and swollen feet.

"Well, I wasn't using it anyway."

The room erupted into laughter, with even Ramza joining in. The Duke of Lionel's humility, in addition to being good for a laugh, was one of the reasons the others had chosen to follow him. Despite being the scion of a powerful and wealthy dynasty, he did not lord it over his fellow man nor turn a deaf ear to their cries for help. And, he never shied from taking up his sword and fighting alongside them, leading from the front and sharing their perils as well as their triumphs.

"So, Izlude…" Beowulf began, turning toward the former knightblade with a curious glint in his eye. "Do you think your child will be a boy or a girl?"

Izlude scratched his chin thoughtfully, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips as he pondered the question. "Honestly? I have no idea. I myself suspect it's a girl because she kicks me as hard as Alma did when we first met, and she's insistent that it's a boy for that same reason. But, truthfully, it doesn't matter to me as long as the baby is healthy."

"Well said."

"That reminds me," Rad cut in. "How's Delita taking the news that Ovelia's going to have twins?"

"Well, after he fainted," Ramza began, getting more laughter out of his audience. "Okay, okay, he didn't faint. He DID blanch a bit, but that was all. Well, after that, I think it did him some good. Between the twins and Layla, I think he's gotten a good shove in the right direction."

"I'm very glad," Olan said, his relief palpable. "I also hear that Layla is doing very well. She's healthy again, and she's been applying herself ferociously to learning how to be a knight. I've heard tell that Ovelia has had to "order" her to set aside her books and training sword and go outside and play a few times."

There was more laughter, but this was tinged with solemnity, given that Layla had lost both family and home before her second chance came from the most unlikely source any of them could think of. And, while her dedication was truly amazing, none of them were keen to see her casually sacrifice a second chance at having a peaceful childhood simply to repay a debt of honor or to atone for her forebearer's misdeeds. Still, that was a problem for tomorrow.

"What about you and Reis, Beowulf?" Malak interjected. "Any plans for having kids?"

"I know Reis is eager, but we've been considering the…complications therein," Beowulf admitted. "It's very likely that any child of ours would manifest Reis's dragonic gifts upon reaching puberty." Here, the former Templar paused and shook his head in disbelief at his own words. "A fire-breathing teenager. Now, THERE'S a charming thought."

Again, uproarious laughter echoed in the room. Still, it was obvious that Beowulf planned to accede to his wife's wishes, provided that their child didn't set the house on fire with every argument. Soon, idle talk about how to decorate the nurseries and which toys to buy was soon bandied back and forth.

As the sun began its descent and the air turned chilly, Mustadio glanced around at his friends, deep appreciation for each on his face. "Thank you all for being here tonight," he said, his voice imbued with sincerity. "Yes, we have difficult decisions ahead, but it's gatherings like this that remind us of what we're truly fighting for. We're not just protecting Ivalice; we're building a future for our families, our friends, and for all who will come after us."

The group nodded in assent, renewed resolve pulsing through them. Each friend felt the ache of their many wounds, physical and otherwise, easing into little more than unhappy remembrances as the future ahead brightened. They were no longer merely warriors battling against the worst of mankind and demonkind; they were custodians of a brighter future, guardians of a legacy that, though few would know of it, would resonate through the ages.

"To new beginnings," Ramza declared, raising his cup in a heartfelt toast. "To families, friendships, and the hope that binds us all."

"To new beginnings!" they echoed, their voices merging in a harmonious chorus as they lifted their cups high, clinking them together in a celebratory gesture that signified not just the next step on each of their journeys, but a commitment to one another, their loved ones, and the future they were building together.

Footnotes:

1. TrES-2b (also known as Kepler-1b or GSC 03549-02811b) is an extrasolar planet orbiting the star GSC 03549-02811 located 750 light years away from the Solar System. The planet was identified in 2011 as the darkest known exoplanet, reflecting less than 1% of any light that hits it. Reflecting less light than charcoal, on the surface the planet is said to be pitch black.

2. 55 Cancri e is a super-Earth — about twice our planet's size — that zooms around its star in 18 days.

3. HD 189733 b is a "hot Jupiter" exoplanet, a gas giant orbiting a star in the constellation Vulpecula, discovered in 2005, known for its extreme conditions including "rains of glass" and high winds.

4. Gliese 1214 b, also known as GJ 1214b, is a sub-Neptune exoplanet located 40 light-years from Earth in the constellation Ophiuchus, and is believed to be a "waterworld" with a dense, water-rich atmosphere.

5. PSR B125712 c, alternatively designated PSR B125712 B, also named Poltergeist, is an extrasolar planet approximately 2,300 light-years awayin the constellation of Virgo. It was one of the first planets ever discovered outside the Solar System, and is one of three pulsar planets known to be orbiting the pulsar Lich.

6. TOI-733 b, a super-Earth exoplanet, orbits a G-type star and is located about 245 light-years away, with a radius almost twice that of Earth and an orbital period of 4.9 days.

7. WASP-121b, formally named Tylos, is an exoplanet orbiting the star WASP-121. WASP-121b is the first exoplanet found with an extrasolar planetary stratosphere (an atmospheric layer in which temperatures increase as the altitude increases) and the first that contains water. WASP-121b is in the constellation Puppis, and is about 858 light-years from Earth.

8. KELT-9b is an exoplanet and ultra-hot Jupiter that orbits the late B-type/early A-type star KELT-9, located about 670 light-years from Earth. Detected using the Kilodegree Extremely Little Telescope, the discovery of KELT-9b was announced in 2016. As of June 2017, it is the hottest known exoplanet.

Co-Author's Note: Falchion1984 again. So, I imagine Mustadio's dim view of AVALANCHE didn't sit well with you guys who try – unsuccessfully, I suspect – to reproduce Cloud's hairstyle, and possibly with you gals who are incredulous about Tifa's unobtainable…figure. Well, I can appreciate that, but Mustadio does raise a valid point. And, since he isn't emotionally invested in the events he's watching, let alone viewing them through as personal a lens as Barret or Tifa, for instance, he can appraise the situation objectively and note something that's gone woefully overlooked. Practically all of the Planet's energy needs are being met with Mako? Okay. Mako extraction is killing the Planet? Fine. AVALANCHE wants to stop this from happening? Alright. But, what happens AFTER?

It's been quite a long time since I've played the OG Final Fantasy VII, and I haven't touched the remake trilogy as-yet but, if I remember correctly, there's a big ol' blank where the answer to that last question ought to be. There's no mention of, for example, rebuilding the energy providers that Shinra either bought out or drove out of business, such as the coal miners in Corel. And, even if there were some such plan, how much of the demand could be met? And, how soon? More than likely, the answers would, respectively, be "not enough" and "not soon enough". In some instances, we see fanfiction exploring how the Post-Mako era would be a very harsh adjustment. For example, mknote's eight story FFVII sequel series shows us how, after Shinra's collapse, energy became much more difficult to come by, which is exemplified that the roads had fallen into disrepair, vehicles had become distinctly scarce, and rebuilding Midgar after its near-collision with METEOR was written off as a pipe dream.

In such a situation, it's only to be expected that the proverbial seeds had been sown for Shinra to rise from the ashes. There'd be no shortage of people who would be frustrated and angry with the situation, especially since it'd be a leap of logic to blame them for how that situation came about. Those who ended up unemployed, and possibly with specialized talents that are no longer marketable, would be doubly affected. As such, Mustadio would likely have considered it not only foreseeable, but inevitable, that Mako Reactors might start springing up again unless something as good, or better, was devised to replace them.

By contrast, there's another fic, which I sadly have been unable to find again. In it, we see an author write outside the proverbial box and Reeve who, in a moment of uncharacteristic, holy-shit-inducing usefulness, presents that "something better". He comes up with an ingenious alternative solution to the Planet's energy needs. How ingenious, you ask? Let me put it this way: Rufus' O.C. sister, despite being in the middle of an armed confrontation between her people and AVALANCHE at the time, straight-up says that she wants to hear him out. Though this Ultimate Good Ending promptly hit a VERY big pothole, I can picture it being a solution Mustadio would approve of. A viable alternative to Mako – it might've been an improved method of harvesting geothermal energy more cheaply and reliably, but I'm not positive – would leave the Post-METEOR Planet vastly better off, as it would not only cut the cord on the Planet's slow demise WITHOUT wrecking the Planet's energy economy (and probably the rest of its economy as well), but it would also mean that neither AVALANCHE nor Shinra would be forced to split their efforts between each other and Sephiroth…which would likely end very badly for the latter.

Just some food for thought. I've read very little FFVII fanfiction, and not much of what I read dug deep into how daily life on the Planet would have been upended by Shinra going under, and taking God knows what along with it. Recommendations on that score would be much appreciated. Until then, I hope you enjoyed this chapter and please be sure to leave comments.