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Chapter Text

“Look at how many people there are!” Tataru exclaimed happily as she observed her surroundings.

For several weeks, scholars of various sort and judging by the widely known uniforms, engineers of Garlond Ironworks dared to search the Syrcus Trench for this mysterious beacon. She even saw what adventurers tossing in their assistance. This was all because of the partially crystallized man called her friends elsewhere and quite frankly, at the worst possible times, might she add. It left the people she had grown somewhat fond of, yet incredibly irate and bitter towards, devoid of their very souls and stuck in a comatose state, vulnerable to attack. Even she had nearly found herself struck down and practically killed by the Ascian in Zenos’ flesh all due to this clumsy hand and lack of foresight. She swore, whenever she found this beacon and arrived in this new location, he would receive an earful and depending on how she felt now, a foot stuck so far up his ass, his children would feel it.

“Should we get to it then?” the Lalafell receptionist questioned. “Pick up anything that seems the least bit “device” like, and we’ll make ourselves a pile.”

The Viera nodded with a faint smile. The receptionist for the Scions was unafraid of getting her hands dirty. Although her battle prowess left much to be desired, her information gathering skills and keen eye for detail was second to none. It often made the Viera jokingly question the small woman if she was a shinobi. While she was indeed not a master of the hidden arts, the smaller woman was just as incredibly talented in all her financial or research endeavors. With her management of coin and spending only when necessary, it has allowed the coffers to remain relatively full which permitted her to request aid from every party accounted for this day. Nala dearly hoped they would reap the fruits of it soon so she could bring her comrades home.

While sometimes Nala would find herself on the annoyed side with their constant requests and need for her to lead the charge against an enemy, she never wished them undue harm. When she first journeyed to Eorzea and began making her name as an adventurer, they pulled her in to their faction and gave her a place to call home again. At first, it was plain obvious they only wanted her around due being chosen as Hydaelyn’s Champion, but when they began to tackle some of the greater issues within the nations, the comradery became slightly genuine. It was true most of the time they still viewed her as only the “Warrior of Light,” but they provided a more jointed effort to certain endeavors as it was necessary to defeat the greater enemy at large—the Ascians.

“Well, if it isn’t the hero of the hour!” announced a familiar voice, snapping her out of her musings. Ahead, she saw Cid’s two finest and possibly the most stubborn, assistants among the company: Biggs and Wedge. The pair stopped before the Scions with large smiles on their faces. Biggs adjusted his glasses as he continued to speak, “Maybe you’ll change our luck-we’ve found bugger without you.”

“Biggs! Wedge!” the receptionist greeted respectively. She received a bashful wave from the small man and a frank one from the burly Roegadyn.

Nala smiled to herself as she observed the two small people, “It appears Wedge still has feelings for Tataru.”

“Aye, aye, well we could hardly say no to a call of aid from the Scions,” Biggs admitted happily. “Jessie collared the chief off for some business, so we’ll be working twice as hard to make up for his not being here.”

“Thrice as hard even,” Wedge piped in.

Tataru raised her arms into the air and her right leg back as she shifted her balance to the other for a small lean, “Thank you—both of you! I’m sure we’ll find that beacon in no time.”

The group walked further inwards to the trench. All around in the rocky terrain were crystal rocks of varying sizes with people assisting in the search of the mysterious beacon, if there was one in the first place. Nala watched as the trio began their search to their far right.

“Hmmm, I’m not seeing anything out here,” Biggs announced. The large man looked to his miniscule in comparison comrade. “D’you reckon you could squeeze in there Wedge?”

The Lalafell engineer jumped back in startlement, “And get stuck halfway? No, thank you.”

Nala proceeded to walk away, no longer interested in the conversation at hand. It was mere idle chit chat of matters that did not warrant her two cents. She casually drifted ahead, searching with her eyes alone, away from everyone else. The scholars, engineers, and researchers are the far edges of the place under their surveillance so if they did not find anything yet, then she could easily go elsewhere and allowed her mind to drift to another plane once more.

How long had it been since she delved into this large fortress? How long had it been since that almost insufferable Miqo’te deigned to begin his long slumber? All the Viera knew, it had been several years since those events, but she couldn’t help the fact her thoughts wished to dwell on them. She sighed as she found nothing, coming to a crumbled wall, “Perhaps, it wasn’t smart to listen to that man, but he was so insistent in me coming here.”

Just as she muttered the last word, a small object at the base of the rocks caught her attention. She reached down and picked up a gear with an Ironworks symbol, “Maybe…I spoke too soon, but why is this here.”

She was so caught up in her examination, she had not noticed the Roegadyn and two Lalafells running up behind her, “Sorry. I-I meant to say-the scholars haven’t finished their preliminary assessment of the site yet, so we’re not supposed to venture too far in.” He caught faint sight of an object in the Warrior of Light’s hand, “Hm. What’s that you got there?”

Nala turned around and reached her hand out for the others to observe the contraption for themselves, “I’m not sure, but this symbol. Is Cid working with this damn idiot?”

Though they could not see it, the burly man’s eyes widened behind his glasses, “Now that looks promising.”

“Uhh…isn’t that the Ironworks symbol?” Wedge questioned, confusion evident in his voice. “Counterfeiters maybe?”

Suddenly, a sharp, unbearable pain entered her mind. “Not again!” She gripped her head with her free hand, stumbling back and forth as the whole world around her seemed to spin. Due to the pain, she maintained a subconscious tight grasp on the gear in the other hand. Then, she heard the man’s voice again, the first time in weeks, as she felt her consciousness begin to drift from the plane of existence.

“Now! Now I have you!” the mysterious voice announced triumphantly. “Focus on my voice! Let expanse contract, eon become instant.”

The two engineers and receptionist panicked. They knew not what was happening or how to alleviate the current state of pain she was in. However, the Warrior of Light knew, this is what the man wanted, and she was now in his grasp.

Tataru suddenly halted in her panic as realization hit her, “Wait! This is supposed to happen! This is the beacon!”

“Throw wide the gates, so we may pass!” the voiced ended with his spell.

Nala felt her entire mind and body be forcefully pulled away to a destination unknown. As the last vestiges of her mind was drawn in by the man’s spell, she barely heard the receptionist’s pleading words, before her vision was filled by an unbearable light and her body faded from view in a twinkle of aether.

Moments passed, she opened her red eyes to a new sight, her head slowly receding of its pain. Nala’s body floated in mid-air as she adjusted to her new surroundings. She was in a midnight blue sky, filled with twinkling stars, though upon closer inspection, they were found to be small crystals. The amazing part about the sight, these crystals must have extended for miles.

“This is actually beautiful,” the Viera complimented, though no one was around to hear her.

She widened her eyes as her body suddenly moved on its own as it propelled downwards, interrupting her moment of stargazing. As she moved at full speed to destinations unknown, she watched in silence as she observed the crystals within her reach. Despite their size, the Viera had a clear view of the faces reflecting from each one of them. They belonged to the friends she made since beginning her journey to Ul’dah and set upon her path as Hydaelyn’s chosen. What astounded her further was the fact she even heard their voices projecting from the rocks and somehow did not clash with one another. A small frown appeared on her lips as many edged closed to her body in an uncomfortable manner, especially those belonging to the Scions. The biggest mistake she ever made was joining the group. They started out asking for assistance in small matters or anything relating to the Primals, but it soon turned into a full-on reliance of her abilities. They barely displayed a shred of gratitude. If only she could…

The Warrior of Light moved her arms to force the shards away from her. Immediately, the woman regretted her reckless actions. Like a domino effect, one shard bumped into the next, and that one into another, and so on. Her worries only grew worse as the pure blue crystals cracked with the small bumps and the voices became distorted, until it all came to a halt. She released a sigh, “That easily could have gone a lot worse.”

Suddenly, a blinding light erupted ahead from a final crystal. The silhouette of the person’s figure was distorted by the intensity, but she could not help but place a finger on the voice. Perhaps…no…it couldn’t be. As she delved into the final reaches of the transference, a brutal, agonizing pain filled her yet once more. Her hands flew to the sides of her head as she screamed in anguish, the matter at hand no longer of any importance. She felt as if something important was being ripped away from the core of her very soul while it was replaced forcefully by a matter of equal importance. As her body came to a slow halt, she allowed herself to drift into a dreamless slumber.

Eyelids fluttered open, revealing a pair of red eyes. Unfortunately, the action was immediately regretted at the sight of a blinding light filling the sky. She recoiled and covered them with the bare part of her arm, “Why...are the skies so bright?”

If that weren’t enough, it only seemed to cause the pressure of a mysterious headache to increase against her skull. It made her feel like an awful mess and due to her distraction, she ignored the gasps and whispers of fear all around her. The woman rolled over from her back to relieve herself of the hardness of the rocky surface, while revealing the dirty part of her white dress, and stumbled to her feet rather clumsily. The woman moved a comforting, gloved hand to the side of her head as she began to observe her unique surroundings. Her eyes widened at the sight. She was in a dilapidated old town, where the houses were built of poor design out of wood and the citizens dressed in tattered clothes. She looked to her left, where at the top of the incline of stairs, was a large castle of sorts.

“Who is she?”

“She appeared out of thin air!”

“W….where am I?” she asked dazedly. Another surge of pain erupted in her head and flinched. The images of a large, golden city spun in her mind’s eye; the streets were flooded with citizens of varying origins. “This...is not…Ul...Ul’dah.” She released another yelp as the large city-state vanished, replaced by a utopian city with beautiful, architecturally crafted buildings. “No...this….is not Amarout.” Flashes of souls dressed in plain black robes, indistinguishable from one another, replaced those she had just seen. Her expression was easily described to be gripped with fear. What was happening to her?!

She set her sights on a Miqo’te couple, who both jumped in surprise at her sharp gaze in their direction. The Viera made one step in their direction, but they immediately froze when she lost her balance and stumbled slight to her right at the motion. Nala shook her head, this would have to do for now, “Tell me! Where am I? I know not this place. This reminds me little of my homes.”

The man hesitantly moved his head in response to her simple inquiry. The way she appeared from the sky, the way she spoke of non-existent cities, and clueless of the beautiful paradise they stood directly outside of in this dying world struck a certain chord within him. He had to get away from her! He scrambled away, dragging his wife along with him into one of the nearby raggedy homes.

“What did I say?” she questioned through ragged breaths. “And why….does this pain only wish to grow stronger?”

Her words only seemed to frighten the people more and the whispers seemed to grow louder by the second. She scrunched her eyes until they came to a full close when the judging whispers filled her ears and pain became almost too much for her to deal with. Did her condition cause that much of a scare? Why? Were they so frightened of an unknown visitor that anything she wished to ask them fall on deaf ears? All she wanted was the answer to one simple question. Was that so hard? Truly, she was in a different land, where the citizens were highly inconsiderate. This was not Amarout…or Ul’dah. Although, she could not help but ponder her current situation. Why was she summoned away from home without her knowing and her mind in a baffling, conflicted state?

“It’s so hard to concentrate…” she mumbled quietly, but her voice was unheard. “Please! Stop.” The exact opposite occurred, and they only grew boisterous, almost to a yelling manner, as if they were calling for a person. “Damn it all! SILENCE!”

Her voice echoed through the downtrodden village and the silence she demanded immediately came. The citizens inched away from the woman, wanting to escape before she could cause them injury. However, their anxieties were calmed at the rampant chorus of footsteps coming from the direction of the overly large building at the top of the stairs. Nala’s ears instinctively shot up as those hardened footsteps circled around her in a matter of seconds. The Viera opened her eyes and nearly gasped in shock. Barely awake for several moments in this strange land and here she was, causing alarm to the citizens and encircled by seven soldiers dressed in purple armor and steel helmets with spears pointed at her.

"Halt!" yelled one of the gaudy dressed soldiers. "State your name and purpose!"

The Viera stared at the man, her firm grasp still placed into her head, "My name?" She flinched again as she forced her mind to recall pertinent information, but the fact she could at least remember something so simple, easily relieved her. “I abandoned…my original home, so I go by…Nala…Nala Blossom.” By the Gods, her voice was full of uncertainty, she almost didn’t believe her own words. Her misgivings grew worse when she saw herself donned in the same, simple robes as her recent flashback. She shook her head vehemently, “No, that’s wrong! It’s wrong! My name is Charis. My true name is Charis!” The constant shifting of memories along the gaping hole within them left her absolutely confounded. With each time she attempted to force her mind to process the information she already knew, the distress only worsened. She paused as a realization struck—they were not supposed to know her name. As a member of the Convocation, she was meant to go by her title—Azem.

Hesitantly, Nala moved her hand to her side and gaze softly at the soldiers, “And why I deigned to show my presence…is a mystery. ‘Twixt the shuffling images, I cannot make any sense of what is happening. I’m extremely confused, but at least I mean no harm.” 

The captain of this unit of soldiers grumbled to himself. This is just what they need: a crazy broad, daring to throw off the intricate balance set in place by his lordship. On the other hand, she could be a spy sent to Eulmore by that damned Crystal Exarch. She would need to be imprisoned for the time being until he decided what to do with her. “Don’t move a muscle! You’re coming with us.”

The Viera tilted her head in slight confusion, “Muddled as my mind may be, but I feel disinclined to accept your most…generous order. I know when I’m not found wanting.” She raised her hand, watching as the soldiers around her tightened their grips on their weapons, and gave a small snap of her fingers. She frowned. Nothing happened. “Why can I not summon my magicks?” The only thing she gained was the ire of the soldiers and they lunged towards her. Time seemed to stop for the confused Warrior of Light as she felt the pain gnawing at the edges of her mind. Honestly, she felt weaker than she last remembered. While she was not as adept as certain other individuals with manipulation of aether, she could very well manage her own against hostile civilians or monsters, but it was all gone—or at the very least, extremely diminished. Unfortunately, this was no time to deliberate over the matter when the men enclosed on her at rapid speed.

Nala jumped over the soldiers’ head to escape their wall, landing gracefully on the other side, causing two of the soldiers to collide face first into one another and fell to the ground. On the other hand, the remaining five had come to a halt and they followed her with their eyes as she landed behind them. They turned on their heels and lunged forward again. The Viera waited until the tallest of the few closed in on her and ducked below him with ease, extending her leg outwards and caused him to fall flat onto the ground, but not before she grabbed his spear. She hopped back to her feet, weapon in hand, and prepared for attack. She instinctively slid her hand to the other end of the weapon and grabbed the top side with the other and raised it over her head, blocking an attack from above. As the man attempted to apply more pressure, she raised her leg, revealing her red boot and kicked the man in his groin. The man immediately dropped his weapon as he clutched at his member and fell to the ground in pain.

The woman covered her mouth with a concerned expression, “I’m truly sorry, but you should reconsider your design choices.”

Only three remained or so she though as more guards exited the building. It took only a moment for them to hear or even witness the commotion from the inside and assembled before aiding their comrades. As Nala found herself cornered, she dropped her temporary weapon and raised her arms over her head as a sign of surrender with a sorrowful gaze, “Must it truly be this way?”

Without a word, they forcefully grabbed at her arms, pulling them behind her back with little resistance, and a clank was heard. The soldiers pushed her roughly with an authoritative “Move it!” and led her to the sanctuary to many; the paradise known as Eulmore.

From afar, a man watched with an unreadable expression as the Viera was led away, “How very interesting. The vaunted hero of the Source has arrived. How…and why?” 

Elsewhere, deep in the chambers of the Crystal Tower, the half-crystallized man stood before a circular mirror, observing the events transpiring with Nala. Despite the fact his face was covered by the hood, a frown was evident on his lips, “This does not bode well. The Warrior of Light must be rescued.”

Chapter Text

“Who am I?” Nala questioned to herself. 

Ever since she awakened, those same words filled her mind for several minutes. Or could it perhaps be hours? The amount of time did not matter as the various memories continued to surface and causing pain to herself when attempting to discern her location or answer this question of her identity. From what she gathered, at one time, she was a fledgling adventurer who made her way into Ul’dah after leaving the Gulmore Jungle. Due to her people’s traditions and values, the moment she ventured into the outside world, she abandoned the name give to her by her people and chose Nala Blossom as her new alias.

She recited the name quietly during her carriage ride to the point it came with such ease when she introduced herself to the peddler in her carriage or writing it down in the book at the Adventurer’s Guild, better known as the Quicksand. The Lalafellan proprietress found the name rather strange, but fitting. Afterwards, she completed a few menial tasks and joined the Thaumaturge’s Guild, with their own set of instructions, until events shifted gears a bit. It was just after meeting a young woman of a very prestigious family and a sarcastic white-haired Hyur man is where those memories as Nala ended.

However, her life as Charis, heavily contrasted it. She lived in a place known as Amarout, a utopia, where all lived in peace and contentment. There were little differences from one person to the next when out in public. Everyone dressed in the same simply black robes with their hoods up and masks covering their face. Only in the presence of loved ones or specific facilities were they allowed to show their face to one another without disruption. Furthermore, everyone had a talent for something, and it led to them having a purpose in life. Once the purpose was fulfilled, they would return to the star. However, there were a few who stepped down from their positions without doing as such and continued with their work.

In this star, where people lived for an age, even she was a notable and respected figure among their people due to her love and generosity she displayed towards every being. She loved all and ensured those around her were well taken care of, even if she was barely acquainted with the individual. In addition, like her predecessor and friend before her, her capabilities in battle were second to none and spirit made her the perfect candidate for the next Azem, permitting her to leave the city. She had a loving husband with remarkable abilities, especially when it came to creation with his boundless aether. Then the man had the nerve to have a sight so acute, he could even see the souls within their comrades…and his name was Hades, or Emet-Selch when in public.

She sighed as she thought of her dearly beloved, “He would know the answer to this most unexpected ordeal.”

 It surprised the Viera that her memories as Charis were by far clearer, but even then, there were limits to her clarity. They stopped after the occurrence of…. She gripped her head as the horrifying images flooded in her mind, “The Doom...the Doom...How...How could I forget about such a thing?” The pictures were so vivid.

Nightmarish creatures appeared before the simple, robed ancients.

Devoid of any sentience, they attacked their very creators and chaos ran amok.

With their own abilities, they caused fires, rapidly spreading from building to building.

When the souls attempted to sleep; to cower away in fear of these monstrous beast, the numbers tripled.

She saw herself running, assisting every soul in her path so they could escape…without her mask. The Convocation chose a method to save their star, by summoning Him and sacrificing half of their people to restore Etheirys to its former glory. She fought with Hades over the decision, but found her words did no justice as he was marked by Zodiark. He revered his greatness, as did the other members, and it was then she knew naught else to do.

Then her teacher, her dearest friend, approached her regarding a solution to the further sacrifices, but her method was of the same sort. She would become a deity like Zodiark and shackle him down. Again, she rejected. She could not in good faith go along with her plan either.

With nothing else for her there, Charis packed her bag and fled the restored city without a word.

Nala moved her hands and brought them to her line of sight, “I…remember nothing after that. Did those fools manage to…think of a solution? A solution…that saved us. If so…why can I not remember? Perhaps…a stipulation of sorts of this found answer…so we may not be plagued for eons? Is that why…I…we have taken these new forms? Why our people are now so diverse? That does not explain why I have taken a new name or have these entirely new memories. It is as if I have lived a new life altogether. More importantly…”

Perhaps it was a trick of the mind or the stressful moment she tried to summon them, but the fact her magicks did not act accordingly bothered her. They surely would have gotten her out of the bout with those guards. She moved her thumb to her middle finger and quickly gave a snap. Nothing. How? Why? She could feel it within her bosom, filling her very being, but it failed her once more. Not only was she void of her life, but her abilities as well.

She rubbed her head to soothe the raging emotions storm within her. Everything made little sense and her musings only caused her to further aggravate her poor head. There was so much still unexplained and she desired answers to it. A sigh escaped her lips as she resigned to her fate. She would simply have to manage for now. Although, her musings kept her distracted from her current surroundings that left her none too happy. She was stuck in this dark, bleak dungeon, hidden away from the outside world, of the obnoxious setting at the top, with nary a window for outside viewing pleasure. It’s not as if the fact mattered. The sky was submerged with a boundless and intense light that scarcely resembled the sky.

As a reminder to the poorly kept dungeon’s condition, she was forced have a worn down and dirty bed as her only source of comfort but sleeping in something so filthy was at the bottom of the list, so she resigned to sitting on the cold floor. To complete the dungeon appearance, there was a steel door, with only a small opening towards the bottom. While silent, she knew one of those horribly dressed guards stood on the outside to ensure she could not escape. Without her weapons or her magicks, there was little thought of escaping. She was sure even the prisons of Ul’dah was in a less deplorable state as this.

“Ul’dah….that place again. Why does I yet strike me so?” she asked to no one. “I spent only a short time there, so why does it feel as if there is importance to it.”

Her ears shot up at the faint sound of curses being muttered from the other side of the door, “Oh, you’re actually listening?”

“Yeah, and I wish you would shut the hells up already!” he responded none too kindly. “Crazy bitch…how’d I get stuck watching her.”

His words struck a nerve and she growled in equal amounts of anger. The nerve of that man! However, a smirk appeared on her lips, “Well I’m sorry for bursting your bubble, but that will not be happening. Until I discover the answers I desire, you will be stuck hearing my musings. Although, you could answer a few questions for me then I might consider your request.”

She was met with the silence that she had long since grown accustomed to in her short time in this land, “I’ll take that as a yes, my friend. First, where am I? Not a single person has deigned to give a proper answer and honestly, I’ve grown weary of it.” She was Azem—the Traveler. It was her duty to explore the world and become intimate with the denizens of Etheryis. Her memory was vast and not once had she visited a city like this one.

“Are you shitting me?” the guard questioned dangerously. “Even the biggest of fools knows what this paradise is.”

“Amarout was a paradise; this is a mockery,” she thought darkly with a shake of her head. “That does not answer my question.”

Silence came. Nala’s ears fell, saddened the man no longer wished to answer her inquiries, at least that’s what she thought. “You are in Eulmore.” The guard mentally kicked himself for responding, but her voice sounded genuine. “This paradise was built as a safe haven for those worthy so we may live out our final days with little worry.”

“What do you mean by final days?” her eyes widened in shock. “Does the Doom still yet plague this star?”

“I don’t know what this “Doom” you speak of, but the world is ravaged with light,” he answered with a roll of his eyes, behind his helmet. He had already thought she had lost her mind with her mannerisms, but the talk of unknown concepts cemented the fact. A realization suddenly dawned on him, “How do you not know this?! I know those of you who live in that damned Crystarium have your foolish idealisms, but even you cannot be ignorant of our world’s state.”

“But I’m not from this…Crystarium you speak of,” she countered desperately. “I’ve never even heard of this place.”

“Do you take me for a fucking clown?” he barked from beyond the door. “I think I’m starting to understand your game spy! You’re trying to get onto our good side so you can be spared! Well I’m not having it! Not under my watch. How about you just shut up until he comes for you.”

The Viera’s ears fell. She thought she finally made leeway with someone on this land. A saddened smile appeared on her lips, “Perhaps, that was mere wishful thinking.”

She pulled her legs to her chest, wrapping her arms around them, and leaned forward to allow her head to rest against her knees. She closed her eyes and proceeded to drift off into a semi-peaceful slumber.

Hazy red eyes opened, revealing to Nala a white abyss of nothing. She felt her body simply floating mid-air or was she falling in the near endless expanse? It was hard to discern. It frightened her but calmed the mind at the same time. She shifted her head from one side to the other. There was nothing. No one. She was completely alone. A grin appeared on her lips. In this void, she was free. No one could disturb her. No one would be angered by her musings.

“Who am I?” she asked to the void.

“Who are you?” her voice echoed, resounding in her ears. To say the Viera was surprised about the occurrence was an understatement, but the startlement easily faded.

“Am I Nala…or am I Charis?” she continued.

“Are you Nala…or Charis?”

”I don’t know. Ever since I awakened, I have been conflicted. Why am I confused?” Her hands moved to cover her eyes as tears slowly began to streak her face.

“Why are you confused?”

She groaned; all her questions merely bounced back to her like an echo. She moved a hand to her chest, as she felt these new emotions continue to bubble forward. 

“But this is not who I am…”

“This is who you are now. Years have passed and you have changed from what you last remember.”

“I understand the times have changed and a considerable amount differs, but I do not even know who I am. Am I still Charis…or this…Nala? And if I did live a single moment of my life as Nala…why have those pieces vanished? Why do I only recall now the cherished moments I existed as Charis?” 

Silence. What type of sorcery was strong enough to erase eons of a lifetime in a mere instant? Their abilities were staunch and no other civilization among their star could match those of Amarout.

“Did the events that once transpired shatter my mind? I can understand…the Doom…my friends, my family and loved were lost to me. But if I was given a new existence in this new star, why am I now only remembering these details?

“You will find out in due time, so do not fret lest you desire pain and confusion.”

Her eyes fell. Even talking to herself failed to prove to be of any help to her. Unfortunately, the voice, her voice was correct in its responses. Despite the grim moment and sense of hopelessness, a smile appeared on her lips. She had always loved discovering answers to the unknown.

The amnesiac Warrior of Light’s eyes fluttered open at the sound of her door opening for the first time she entered this prison. She looked up to see one of those gaudily dressed soldiers walked in with a small tray of food in hand and placed it on the floor beside her. The guard did not so much as say a single word before he turned heel and closed the door behind him after exiting the room.

Nala raised an eyebrow as she eyed the tray curiously, observing her unwanted choice of rations: a single bun of painfully white bread, devoid of all color, and a small glass of water. The woman picked up the bun and poked at it cautiously, “What manner of food is this?”

If anyone else dared to watch her inspect the food, they would think her an ungrateful youth, but she wanted to use the necessary precautions. Finally, she brought it close to her nose and sniffed it for a second. Surprisingly, it held a delectable aroma that did not make her stomach churn but held the opposite effect. Her stomach rumbled, desiring the food in its center, “I gather that is has been a while since I have had the proper nutrition. One bite will not hurt.”

She opened her mouth and slowly bit down on the morsel of food. Her eyes went ablaze as the tastes her filled her being. The meat bun was filled with spices that complemented each other quite well and an underlying sweetness that nearly hypnotized the Viera. “Truly a master chef created this fine dish.” Piece by piece, she nibbled on the food to savor it’s taste, but due to its small size, it did not take long for nothing to remain. While her hunger was not fully satiated, it was enough to satisfy her stomach until the next feeding.

The woman went back to sitting in silence for an undetermined amount of time. It was hard to determine if only minutes passed, or hours; the lack of a clock or window made it impossible to tell. Finally, the door opened. She shifted her gaze upwards to see not only two guards, but an elderly, but stern looking man standing before them as he gazed darkly back at her.

“So, you’re the sinner who dared to disrupt our peace,” he commented as he observed the Viera. He raised a hand when she prepared to respond, not wanting to hear any excuses. “You will be coming with me sinner to face judgement from Lord Vauthry.”

“Yet I’ve done nothing wrong,” she thought bitterly. However, she could not do anything to retaliate with the lack of weaponry at her disposal. She dropped her head in defeat as the guards came to her sides and pulled her off the ground, cuffing her once more. She looked him in the eye despondently, “Lead the way…”

“General Ran’jit and you do well to remember it sinner,” the man known as Ran’jit answered gruffly.

Chapter Text

The Warrior of Light hung her head in absolute shame as she marched through the upper levels of the so-called paradise known as Eulmore. In front, leading her was the hardened man known as Ran’jit. The man cared little of idle talk, only speaking to make any demands of sort. If at any point her curiosity had been piqued by a small observation, he would swiftly shut her down and she’d return to her silent musings. Her situation was not made any better by the guards at her sides. In fact, they only served to dampen her mood greatly with their fierce grips on her and unnecessary uses of force in order to get her to comply with their demands.

As they reached the bustling corridors of the sanctuary, the Viera felt the heat rushing to her face, cheeks reddening at the amounts of pompously dressed residents gawking at her predicament. Many pointed, others whispered, but all judged her among themselves. The words escaping their lips did not fail to reach her upright ears. They assumed she had snuck into the city. She was accused of dishonoring those she was ‘bonded’ to. A small majority heard the true accounts or rumors of the disruption she caused just outside the city limits; within the Derelicts where those living off the mere scraps of higher-ranking society.

However, despite all the wild accusations, Nala preferred the latter of the claims as it was the only one to hold the greatest truth to them all as it was merely acted out of self-defense. She meant not to stir trouble, but they attacked her when she only desired to discern her new location. Oh, how much the souls have changed from what she once knew.

No one here cared to lend an ear to her situation; only watched and waited for those stronger…and armored to handle someone of her nature. Whatever lifestyle these folks lived, which appeared to be a lavish one, were set in their ways, caring only for themselves. Until she could receive the proper audience with this Vauthry character and released from her hand binds, she was to be a pariah.

The group arrived at what can be assumed to be the center of the city. She assumed judging by the amount of people, this was their….Hall of Rhetoric? As she scanned her surroundings even further, the designs were much too atrocious for her tastes with the bright colors and numerous flags; not to mention, a fountain surrounding the large crystal aetheryte in the center of the room. Many high-classed citizens, matching the outrageous design of the city, could be seen off in their pairs or groups of threes and fours, engaging in friendly banter with one another, but in other cases, some were obviously slightly disgruntled by the conversations being had.

What she found odd, were the sights of several people, dressed in simpler clothing, carrying out varying tasks. She raised an eyebrow. She never seen anything like this before. Was there some sort of ailment preventing the certain, extravagantly dressed citizens from complete simple actions such as eating or cooking themselves? What was the reason behind the townsfolk differentiating themselves from one another? What happened to the humble black robes and the masks or was that special only to Amarout?

Nala felt another surge of pain pressing against the forefront of her head, but with all her might, she forced the excruciating sensation to the back. The rapid shakes of her head garnered the attention of the two captors at her arms, further capturing the attention of the onlookers in the spacious area.

“Don’t you even try it Vii!” the burly man to her right growled angrily.

“Apologies,” she whispered meekly.

As the center of unwanted attention, the Viera merely wished to shrink into a hole and remain there until the end of time once again.

They arrived at a set of large doors and her sense of dread quickly rose as her red eyes landed on them. Behind these doors lied the Vauthry character, who would be her persecutor. The hardened man shot her a dark look using only his peripheral vision while her own immediately dropped along with her ears. Words were unnecessary. Her fate was already sealed when she caused the uproar and nearly assaulted the guards who only did their job of protecting the citizens and the small city.

The doors pushed open and followed by his soldiers, Ranjit entered the private chambers and the doors promptly shutting behind. Ran’jit stopped in the center of the room, giving a bow of the utmost loyalty and locked his eyes onto the man before him, “Lord Vauthry. I bring to you the sinner who foolishly dared to trespass into Eulmore and disturb the peace you so graciously preserve.”

“So, this is her,” the man’s voice drawled out in a bored tone.

Nala felt the guards release their grips on her arms as they stepped to the side, not before bowing to the one in front of them. Nala cautiously drew her gaze upwards and her eyes widened in shock. In actuality, the Viera nearly recoiled at the sight of the grotesque man sitting in the chair across the room.

The man was paler than any she had lain eyes on anyone in the star, even more so than the translucent masks the Amaroutines of her time once adorned., only to be complemented by the single blonde ponytail on his otherwise bald head. His body was mammoth in comparison to her own with folds creasing along his arms, yet his stomach was perfectly round. He even had the nerve to wear black and purple accented robes, matching the color scheme of this gaudy scene, that provided little to flatter himself. Finally, her eyes drifted to his stubby fingers donned with several golden rings. She wondered what madman bequeathed the individual with lovely jewelry, as they showed little signs of ever coming off unless magicks were involved. 

Despite his morbidly obese size, he continued to pick the white meat she herself only nibbled on hours ago, served to him by a more than willing Miqo’te.

Nala quirked a questioning eyebrow as she continued to observe him in silent curiosity. Truly, he was the epitome of some royal lineage….a distinguished privilege and birthright he obviously took for granted, “So this ill-favored man is their superior…their lord?? I have never been one to judge a person by mere appearances alone, but…the stars tell me he will not be granted a prosperous future for much longer.”

The man became the least of her worries when her eyes drifted to the peculiar “pillow” he rested his back on and the other inhabitants residing in the room. Her eyes widened in fear; her breath hitched. Her head slowly began shaking from side to side in a wave of anxiety. Just behind Vauthry, the overly large cushion was a lion equaling in Vauthry’s size, its fur bleached in a sickly white—devoid of all color, adorning a crown and what appeared to be two wings on his sides. His equally white mane to his snout was rubbed affectionately by an angelic white woman, her focus solely remaining on the feline beast.

Matters for the Viera only grew far more frightening with several lesser angelic women, sitting in pairs at the lounge couches, devoid of life. Immediately, she lost herself to her past as images of Terminus resurfaced. No matter how much the ancients snapped, clapped, or even willed away those destructive beasts, they would not simply vanish. In fact, the actions only seemed to further aggravate the horrendous creations and their actions only became increasingly violent. With her large gap in her memories and the display of serenity and laziness, she figured the dangerous artificial beings ceased to exist. The times appeared stable, but to see they were not unnerved the Viera, “No…no…they cannot mean to live. Why are they here? Why do they still yet breathe?”

Amidst her anxiety, she darted her eyes around the room yet again towards the men present. They were unfazed, comfortable with the bleached monstrosities’ presence. Meanwhile on the other hand, she wished to hide away from the nightmarish beasts. They only wrought death and destruction, yet these people acted as if nothing was wrong; like this was a completely natural occurrence. Even the creatures themselves acted as if they were the only ones present in the chambers. Nothing made sense.

Her attention was captured once more when she felt eyes peering deep into her.

“Do you have anything to repent sinner?” Vauthry questioned, oblivious to her situation. However, if Vauthry did not, he simply did not care. “You who so villainously assaulted my royal guard in a futile attempt to enter my paradise and the very delicate peace?”

“I….I apologize,” the Viera replied in a whisper. Her lack of volume was not towards the man’s apparent but laughable attempts of intimidation, but the sheer amount of sin eaters present in the room. One wrong word could easily invoke his wrath and her life may very well be at an end as she would be handed over to the them on a silver dish. No matter how docile they have appeared, but a beast was still a beast. “Truly, I did not mean to cause you or your fair citizens any trouble. I was merely confused…perplexed by my new surroundings and current state of mind.”

Vauthry rolled his eyes, unconvinced of the Viera’s words, as he sat up from the lion he used for his support and glared at her harshly, “Do you expect me to believe a pitiful excuse of that caliber? Do you take me for…a naïve fool? Never have I heard a ludicrous statement. Only those favored and chosen can enter this sanctuary.”

The woman’s body yet trembled. This was only the second time in her life she has known true, unrelenting fear and it was not at all directed towards the man. If had had any unruly subjects, was this how he dealt with them? By means of intimidation? Well, she was not to let him have control over her, but it was best to allow him to think so, “I do not take you as a fool Sir Vauthry. My ordeal ‘tis rather ridiculous in words and my subsequent actions speak otherwise, but that is why I humbly ask for your forgiveness. I acted on baser, primal instincts when events went as unintended. I only wished for answers.”

She hoped her apology could appease him for the time being, but the unshakeable dread bubbling within her remained.

“Answers, you say?” the man questioned quirking a single eyebrow. “What could you possibly have to search for in my holy domain when you were not hand selected to be among the few and privileged?”

The Viera remained silent under his fierce gaze, but it soon grew softer by the moment as a slow realization dawned on the obese man.

Despite his anger, his outrage towards the unworthy sinner who defiled his grand paradise, his small observations thus far have allowed him to gain a clearer view. She refused to look him in his eye, her body constantly trembling in fear, voice barely above a whisper, and ears held back submissively. Yes, her understood now. The Vii already knew her position before he uttered a single word. Perhaps he could use this to his advantage. His frown twisted upwards into a smug grin and returned to his formerly relaxed position against his 'pet.' "Do not be alarmed, all I deign to understand is your predicament. Surely, this blessed sanctuary contains what you seek. So, enlighten me with your troubles and I promise it shall be resolved."

The Warrior of Light's eyes widened in shock at his sudden change of heart. While it was rather unexpected, she would not deny the offer, but a little voice told her not to divulge everything. Tears welled in her eyes, but quickly wiped them away as best she could with her bound hands, surprising her audience, "I cannot...I am unable to recall everything and what does remain…" She shook her head to regain her composure, but it was so hard for her to keep her voice from quivering, "It's all...just a muddled mess. There are few things I am able to understand vividly and that is my home...abilities and name…" She felt herself shrink under the pressure of several unwanted guests around the room and spoke her last few words softly and quietly, "...and those vile beasts…"

“How interesting,” Vauthry mumbled to himself. “Yes, I see how you tale warranted alarm. It left you of bearings and I understand how your most troubled state frightened my esteemed citizens. When you are not among my selectors, you are only assumed to be a miscreant and my guards is swiftly dispatched as defense to prevent those trespassers into my domain.”

“I would call those poor individuals “esteemed” citizens,” Nala thought bitterly, but she kept a straight face for the man not to arouse suspicion. “They are merely the people you taunt with your lavish privileges.”

“However, your words and the peculiar situation has allowed me to see you are true and I shall personally see to your admittance to my fine sanctuary,” the man proclaimed.

“If I may speak freely Lord Vauthry,” the general spoke with a respectful bow. When he received a nod of approval he continued, “While her mind is in shambles, this sinner has displayed formidable skill to the soldiers in the army. Clearly, by her mere demonstrations, she could prove useful in our final days. Yes, mere instinct alone will grant her a swift death, but if those skills are harnessed in the correct manner and memories returned to her, the remaining territories will easily be swayed to join under your generous rule.”

“Enlist in our army?” he repeated with a thoughtful gaze. An amused chuckle erupted from his lips, “Yes! Marvelous suggestion! It would do her far better justice than a bonded citizen.”

“Pardon my frankness, Sir Vauthry,” Nala interrupted humbly. “But if I may ask, if this is promised as a paradise, then why do you require…an army? Do you have dastardly enemies?”

“You poor, simple child,” he responded with a shake of his head. “It is truly a shame how much time has been lost to you. Initially, when the Flood of Light washed over our world, it transformed those in it’s wake into “Sin Eaters,” such as my pets before you, but it was halted before it could reach this forsaken region. To combat the sin eaters, an army mobilized to combat the mindless sinners until I was delivered to save this world from its wretched state. As this world’s divine god, I was ordained with the ability to control these beasts and since then, my citizens have known peace. However, there are impudent fools who question my judgement and object my rule.”

“So, that leaves you at your wit’s end trying to halt their opposition,” Nala surmised with an understanding sigh. It saddened her to realize this had become the state of the current world. Back in Amarout, everyone knew contentment. The ancients, in all their glory, ‘fought’ through their differences with debates long and short until a common ground was settled. Yet here, it sounded they settled it in unsavory ways. How far the people have fallen. “However, there yet seems more to his words.”

“While your other option shall grant you service to one of my free citizens, joining my army shall prove far more beneficial to your plight,” he continued with an unreadable expression. “Does that appease you?”

The Warrior of Light watched the man closely, searching for any forms of hidden deceit in his features, but as far as she could discern, there were none. As a result, she gave a defeated sigh of resignation. She was unsure of how this choice could possibly help her. Her knowledge and abilities were not meant for carnage and warfare. They were meant to create beauty, life, and the burning inspiration into those around her. Then again, what remained of her other self…Nala…it was meant to protect and survive; such conflicting mindsets.

“Have my words troubled you?” Vauthry inquired curiously.

She looked up to him and after a moment of silence, she shook her head, “No Sir Vauthry. I am merely conflicted. If it is at all permitted, I require a moment of time before I give a decision.”

“Very well,” Vauthry conceded with a knowing grin. “Use all the time you may require. I understand your mind requires a fair amount of time to…process.”

Nala smiled warmly and gave a slow bow of thanks, “I appreciate your generosity and you have my most humble thanks. Added, if you do not mind, I do have on small request. Perhaps a small observation of the people shall allow a smoother decision process.”

“You may, but the guards shall remain and closely monitor your movements until your choice is final,” he responded. He began flicking his hand in a shooing motion, “Now off with you. I do look forward to hearing your…wise decision.”

“Thank you again,” she responded with yet another bow. The guards returned to her sides as she turned around, but this time, they refrained from gripping onto her arms. They proceeded to exit the private chambers, closely watched by the obese mayor and hardened general until the doors closed. The Viera exhaled a deep sigh of relief. Playing a fool (partially) to the leader had taken a lot out of her, but she did convince him of her genuine quandary, “At least I can receive a fair chance to know what I am agreeing to.”

Meanwhile…

Golden eyes carefully observed as the woman exited Vauthry’s chambers and led to the common’s area of Eulmore. While the general public was unaware of his presence, if one was to see him staring intensely at the woman, they would believe him to be infatuated by her appearance. However, what he gazed upon was far deeper than mere outside presentation; it was the inside of her that caught his full attention. The light of her soul, an unmistakable blue hue, shone greater than he ever seen in the past few millennia. His eyes widened in mild shock, “Perhaps, this deigns for a closer inspection. If I’m right…then you have returned to me.”

At the Crystarium

The hooded individual continued to observe the events transpiring in Eulmore…with Nala. He shook his head, feeling guilty for the predicament the Warrior of Light landed in. He was far too overconfident. His enthusiasm for finally connecting with the famed hero of the Source to bring her to this shard had been his undoing. The distraction caused her to land right into their clutches.

He shook his head, “Feeling guilty about myself is not beneficial. The only way to correct my mistake is to save her. Please wait a little longer Warrior of Light.“

Chapter Text

Nala peered into the teacup placed in front of her by the cat-eared waitresses, watching as the contents slowly rippled into place. She was relieved, to say the least, to have been given the opportunity to ponder over Vauthry’s generous offer and observe this city’s inhabitants. She truly had no idea what an “army” was and only pretended to so she may not appear as too much more of a fool in his presence. She was barely able to get him to buy her “act” of being fearful of him. However, from what she could gather, it was a collection of individuals meant to protect the citizens from any sort of danger that dared to threaten the peace, which came in the form of the Crystarium. While she may have left the Convocation, her duty—her life’s goal was to protect the people of Etheirys. Even her dearest friend and mentor refused to return to the star because she wished to continue in her duty. Besides, this new life borne to the world may yet have something to teach her and with the mysterious way of the sky piqued her curiosity.

However, the latter would come in time. Her mind yet remained in a haze, leaving her unable to fully discern the state of her situation with her memories. Everything from days long passed surged in her mind as it attempted to reign her in with the abnormal awakening several days ago. She was beginning to remember her entire life where the days were peaceful, and she was surrounded by loving friends and comrades. Unfortunately, there were other memories that were conflicting with what she knew—that of the woman known as Nala. They held no correlation to that of the present and as far as she knew, she had only just departed from Amarout a short time again. “I can only imagine I am now in the future as the life here is different. I…I no longer hold my sight and my aether diminished tremendously.”

The Viera started to move her hand to the side of her head, only to be given the brutal reminder of the cuffs barring her mobility, and set them back on the table, “Was this truly the solution by the Convocation? While they held that awful desire of sacrificing our people, this goes beyond the scope of their intentions.”

A light sigh escaped her lips as she picked up the fragile glass with her chained hands and proceeded to take a long drink. The sweet aroma filled her nostrils and the matching taste entering her mouth allowed for the effect to overcome her almost immediately. As she placed it back to its position on the table, her heart grew heavy. It reminded her of what her friend, her mentor, used to make after many of their excursions into the broader star. They would laugh about the situations they landed in along the way and most cases, it was at the expense of a certain someone’s lectures and complaints when he found out about it. She cherished their time together very deeply, wishing it would last forever, but she had a feeling that at some point the happiness would end. Unfortunately, she was correct in her assumption as the Sound emerged and caused destruction to their world.

As Nala proceeded to be lost in her musings, another migraine struck her, and a piercing sound erupted in her ears. A bloodcurdling scream erupted from her lips as she fell to the side, alarming those surrounding her in the café, including her guards keeping a close eye on her from a distance.

Dressed in simple black robes, with her hood and mask both removed, stood defiantly in front of others donning red masks. Her emotions were laid all too bare, laced with the agony of betrayal and regret for being powerless to do anymore.

“No! I refuse to sacrifice what remains of our people! ‘Tis simply madness! There must be a better way to fix this tragedy as the easiest solution is not always the best. We must go to the source of the Sound!”

One of the thirteen individuals sighed in content at her suggestion, “Do as you will. We shall not force you to remain among our number. Honestly, I believed it a foolish notion to nominate you due to your behavior, but your abilities were unmatched and Venat. You’ve failed numerous occasions to follow protocol and sought reason to give into your foolish whims. We shall have no more of it.”

“I apologize if my quirks were a burden to you all this time, but unlike you all, I prefer action over sitting idly by as others are in the midst of tragedy and strife. Furthermore, it is due to your indolence, you fail to see the value of the life that you are so quick to use to summon the will of the star.”

“This was no easy decision,” another, a woman, responded sadly. “But should we summon it, then the beasts will disperse and our magicks of use to us once more. Should all go according to plan, then we may restore our people after the damage is undone.”

Charis averted her gaze as she brought her hand to the white mask at an agonizingly slow pace until wrapping her gentle fingers around it. They were stubborn fools and failed to listen to reason. What was the point of ‘saving’ their star if it meant sacrificing those who yet remained? None! She began to pull at the plastic object as she looked to the man in the far back—his stance tense and hands clenched to his side, only to turn his attention elsewhere. Her eyes fell in response and forcefully yanked the mask from around her neck and dropped it on the floor. “Well then, consider this my abdication of my seat.”

The vision changed and Charis found herself in the middle of her humble abode. She was preparing to leave, but a man with white hair and golden eyes she could get lost in barred her way.

“Hades! I am departing and that is final!” she yelled as the tears streamed from her eyes. “

The man resisted the urge to roll his eyes. Instead, he unleashed a frustrated growl towards her insistence, “You are being unreasonable! Do you not see the gift He has granted us?! The beastly manifestations are gone and the consequence of using our aether without consequences nonexistent.”

“Yes, but at what cost!” she argued, the tears streaking her cheeks. “Are you not satisfied with what he has done already? I can appreciate the initial motivation behind it, yet there is further persistence to surrender another part of those who yet remain to Him, as if you are possessed. You know I cannot in good conscious watch you fall down this insipid path.” She approached him and placed her head against his chest, “I love you Hades, truly, but my mind has been made.”

The memories of a time before time all came rushing forward, but also the heartache as though she was living them in present day. When Nala came to, she was clutching her head from the front as she lied on the floor, the excruciating pain now dwindling to a mild annoyance. The horrid sound was no more. The citizens of Eulmore merely watched from the seats, astounded and fearful of the woman’s clear state of agony when nothing had struck her from what their eyes could perceive.

Nala’s eyes slowly fluttered open as her erratic breathing began to calm, although they remained unfocused as her mind remained occupied at the series of events, “It’s all…coming back to me…but I don’t…How long has passed? Why does the gap in my memory seem even greater than before? I do not…I do not recall the moments after I reached the gates to depart from Amarout.”

“Hey! Hey! Are you listening?!” yelled a gruff voice.

The Viera snapped out of her musings at the sound of the voice as she fully realized just what had happened. Examining her immediate surroundings, she observed the guards standing right before her with bewildered expressions. Weakly, she pushed herself up from the floor as best she could and merely sat there in confusion, “I apologize…I did not.”

“Are you alright dear?” questioned a new voice, gentle and kind in nature. Nala turned her attention to meet the concerned gaze of an old Miqo’te female with short auburn hair and blue eyes. Given her age, her attire was far more simplistic in comparison to the others she observed to this point. She donned a long purple dress with golden accents underneath a gray fur coat of equal length with a match purple necklace. Her hand, which was next to her mouth, revealed several golden rings of extreme monetary value on each of her plump fingers.

“I…” the Viera stuttered to responded in a small stupor. “For the most part, I am fine. I merely recalled a horrid memory of the past which spurred a headache.”

The woman’s gaze softened as a gentle smile proceeded to form, but the worry yet remained, “Oh my, and it seems to have been a frightful one indeed, but as long as you are well.” She paused for a moment, intently staring at the Viera as if forcing a thought to come to her until her face absolutely brightened. “I thought I recognized you! You’re the precious soul who was escorted to see Lord Vauthry.”

The Warrior of Light could feel a small blush redden her cheeks, but her barriers weakened all at the same time in the presence of the kindly woman. She obviously did not think her a plague of sorts and genuinely curious of the situation, “’Tis one way to express it I suppose.”

“She’s a prisoner,” one of the guards interjected. “And a dangerous one at that. Return to your days as you were.”

“Whatever do you mean, she looks absolutely harmless,” the friendly Miqo’te pressed in disagreement.

Nala stood to her feet and returned the gentle smile, “If only you were correct about your assumptions. Appearances can be deceiving. However, while I am grateful for the concern, I suggest you listen to them. I’d hate to see you get into trouble on my behalf. I did cause a right lot of disruption outside your walls. However, due to the peculiar circumstances of my arrival Vauthry has permitted me to observe you all so long as I do not cause another one.”

“Well then, what better way than to talk with us then,” the Miqo’te woman declared. “Besides, it looks as though you’ve been having a terribly awful day as is. I know just the way to cheer you up.”

The Warrior of Light waved her hands before her, “Really, I appreciate the sentiment, but you do not need to do that.”

Her words fell on deaf ears as the strange woman bravely approached the soldiers, “Do you fine gentlemen mind if I take her off your hands for a little while.”

The man groaned to themselves. They planned on denying her request outright, but her expression was on they could not say no to. At least in this way, they would be able to take a break from their assigned task.

“Fine, but the moment she causes a problem, she’s coming back with us to receive her due punishment,” the taller of the two, a Xaela, responded. Now that he thought about it, there was little point in the warning as the Viera had been stripped of her weapons upon capture.  “You have three hours with the Ms. Chai. After that, it’s back to him.”

“Oh, thank you deary!” the middle-aged cat woman thanked, fully delighted by his resistance to the request. Without so much as approval from the Warrior of Light, she dragged her by the wrist to the opposite side of the café, where a male, well-dressed male awaited them.

His eyes widened in shock behind his glasses and looked to the other individual in tow. He nearly sputtered out his next words, clearly surprised by her actions, “Darling, w=what is this?” I turn away for two s-seconds and you being her back.”

“Oh, don’t be like that,” Ms. Chai countered, taking a seat in her chair. “She seemed to be having a bad day and the terrible headache of the sort. I hope you don’t mind.”

“I-I-uh,” he proceeded to stutter, but he was unable to find the world. Instead, he sighed in defeat at her demands. He was never one to deny his wife of her demands, even when she overextended

them slightly. They were in their final day s of their life after all. It was only fair they indulged in whatever they wished until the Light brought further ruin to them all. “Very well dearest.”

“She’ll only be here for a few hours,” the woman continued in a cheerily fashion.

Nala offered a small bow in return, “Thank you very much for your hospitality. I did try to urge her to not concern herself over my well-being, but she was rather adamant with her request. Even my guards proved unable to decline.” A large lightbulb went off in her head and nearly slapped herself for her stupidity and rudeness. “Oh, and I should apologize, I have no introduced myself properly. My name is”

Another surge of pain surged in her head, and uncertainty blossomed. Which name was she meant to provide? Would it be accurate to give them Nala or Charis…? As she vacated her seat from the convocation, it would be unwise to provide them with her title. Then again, she was confused of her hesitance. She held a greater connection to her life within Etheirys. “Charis. You may address me as Charis.”

“Oh my, what a lovely name,” the middle-aged woman continued adoring her. “I am Dulia-Chai and this is my husband, Chai-Nuzz. It is such a pleasure to make your acquaintance Charis. Now, first thing’s first—“

Dulia-Chai reached into the bag next to her chair and pulled out a set of clothing and shoes before handing them to the amnesiac Viera. A large smile donned her lips, once again dismissing her temporary charge’s apparent confusion, “When I saw you, I simply could not help myself. I believe they will look positively adorable on you.”

“A-are you certain?” Nala questioned in awe. She was amazed by the unprompted desire to offer her a new attire when they barely spoke a word to one another. “I’m…I’m sure there must be a way for me to repay you for your kindness.”

“It’s not a worry at all Charis,” Dulia-Chai responded, ignoring her exasperated husband. “Think of it as a gift to welcome you to Eulmore.”

Nala smiled brightly to the sweet woman. Unlike the others who regarded her with disdain as though she were some sort of plague, the woman offered her genuine kindness. She was relieved to know that not everyone lost sight of themselves in the paradise of grandeur. As with all gifts she received, she would cherish it, but remain mindful of them during any of her riskier adventuress, especially if she was needed to dive into yet another volcano.

“Thank you again,” she regarded happily. “I suppose I shall wait to don this attire once I’ve gained…access to the appropriate facilities.”

“Of course, there is no rush, but once you have the opportunity to try it on, I would love to see it,” Dulia-Chai requested happily. She tapped on the seat next to her, “As I did interrupt you from your tea, why don’t you join us?”

“Dearest, I do think you’ve disturbed her long enough,” the man argued with a slightly authoritative voice. “You will get us in unnecessary trouble.” By Charis demeanor, she appeared to be a pleasant individual and regarded those around her with the respect they deserved. What sort of mischief would cause her to be apprehended by the guard? Admittedly, he was curious of the situation she was in as it had been quiet as of late with miscreants attempting to sneak in. “But…I suppose it will do us no harm in merely chatting awhile.”

Nala nodded happily before stepping around the table to take a seat, placing her newly acquired clothes neatly into her lap.

“If you don’t mind, could you tell us all about yourself?” Dulia-Chai questioned, emitting her curiosity.

Nala’s eyes saddened in response. What was there to say? She barely remembered anything of recent events—what led her here, the new form she carried, and the reason for her lack of aether. She was confused, frightened, anxious—things she has always forsaken in her former life. She never had a care in the world and faithfully carried out her duties throughout their star—with little regard to her well-being so long as the trouble was averted. She would simply have to settle with what yet remained and not so much the gap.

“As I told you, my name is Charis, and ‘tis easier to explain I am not from here,” she began with a faraway look. “I’m from a place known as Etheirys. It was a beautiful place where everyone was content. There was barely any sort of grievances and our livelihood benefitted from the many experts in their craft. Despite the case, my behavior is rather…expressive to say the least. So, I was given a position which permitted me to travel wherever my heart led me.”

Tropical islands. Ravaged cities. Expansive deserts. No matter where she may go, there was ought to do. When she was in over her head, she summoned allies to her side. The particularly precarious situations required the aide of three specific individuals—much to one’s extreme annoyance and the others’ delight.

“Then tragedy struck. Monsters appeared left and right, destroying everything we created,” Nala continued with her story. “So many of our people died or sacrificed themselves so the rest may live. Despite my prowess in combat, there was little I could do to prevent the inevitable as the hordes of monsters from…” The horrid images filled her mind’s eyes—corpses decorating the pavement, nightmarish creatures appearing from individual’s use of aether, and fire burning all around her as far as the eye could see.

Her ears flattened behind her. The pain was tremendous as she further analyzed the scope of damage wrought by the products of their own making along with the realization of how alone she was. Everyone she knew was gone—sacrificed to Zodiark or under his control. She had always been a loner in a sense, but still loved making the bonds with those she encountered along the way.

Dula-Chai felt sorry for the Viera. The poor girl lost everything to the Flood of Light and yet regretted her inability to save those closest to her heart. Unfortunately, it was a cruel fate to wish upon anyone, “Oh, you poor dear. I can only imagine how you must feel.”

“Interesting,” Chai-Nuzz muttered as he thought to himself. “And since then, what have you done these past hundred years? There are few places one can retreat to and pray they do not receive an attack from a stray sin eater or two.”

There was a pregnant paused between his inquiry and a sigh escaping the Warrior of Light’s lips, “I have no idea. My mind has been in a haze since I awakened. I have been unable to discern past from present. It is though I have been asleep for an extreme period.” Realization suddenly dawned on her and her eyes widened in fear as she broke out into a cold sweat. Husband and wife exchanged questioning and worried stares at one another before returning their attention to Nala as she began to hyperventilate. “How…How long did you…say has past…?”

“Approximately one hundred years have passed since the Flood of Light,” Chai-Nuzz slowly clarified. In hindsight, he realized it was a horrible idea to reiterate his statement. Charis was clearly distraught by the information relayed to her, but this was common knowledge among their broken civilization.

Nala’s eyes dilated at his words, “One…hundred years…? I’ve lost…a century at the least?”

How could that be? What transpired between the events of the Final Days and now that cause her memory to be stripped away from her? It made her wonder, did Hades manage to convince her to stay home at the last second? Did the second sacrifice to Zodiark leave last effects on those who yet remained? Was there a shock so immense she removed everything from her mind? Or did it have direct correlation to the “Flood of Light” everyone has mentioned several times upon her awakening? “I…do not…understand. Why…how have I been?”

“Charis, sweetie, breathe,” Dulia-Chai suggested worriedly. She wanted to ease the woman’s pain, to pull her into the biggest hug she could muster but knew it would not settle her troubled heart. “You’ve nearly gone pale. Why don’t you get a breath of fresh air? That always cheers me right up.”

Unconsciously, Nala gave a nod of agreement before she stood to her feet. Being confined to a majestic ballroom only made her feel claustrophobic. While she may have desired answers for the state of the star, she would not be able to obtain what she sought all riled up. She slowly dragged her feet over to the open breezeway where she was promptly attacked by a gust of wind as she went over to the railing. Her ruby eyes scanned over the wide expanse of the ocean, and the land out in the distance. Her mind was having trouble understanding the newfound information, but the sight of the peaceful waters from the city’s overlooking view was doing it’s intended job. When was the last time she had simply paused to take in her surroundings? How much time had she expended merely focusing on the task at hand? She had done all these activities before the Doom brought those peaceful days to an end. No matter how frivolous the action appeared to others, specifically one nagging individual—but warranted, she always had to try it at least once. She was always curious to the tastes of exotic foods or the differentiating aromas of the flora, in a new land that she had to experience it before departing as she never knew when she’d return.

The amnesiac caught sight of a figure jumping out of the water, a light smile adorned her lips once more, but the sadness quickly returned. Back then, in her original form, she held rather exceptional sight, but such was not the case as of now. No longer could she discern one form from another at such a great distance or the faint exposure of one’s soul. Even while her friends and mentor gifts with the latter was predominant compared to hers, the lack of ability bothered her immensely. Nala raised her hands into view and brought them to her ears, tracing her fingers along the outline. The loud whispers of the denizens easily crept into her ears, some louder than others based on distance and volume of their voice. Soon, they moved downwards to her hair, finding difficulty reaching the ends of it, “This body lacks in many aspects, but I received others in return. It is though I am part familiar now as well as many others.” She turned her attention to the crowds going about their daily life. Some like the Chai’s with cat-like ears and tears, and others truly beastly in form. A small hum escaped Nala’s lips, “How is it that my soul is forcibly placed into one of these bodies? I have…numerous questions, but I cannot find an answer to them.”

Her eyes floated to the sky. As if she did not have enough to deal with but the amount of light aether in the atmosphere sickened her to the stomach. No mere person should be able to inhabit the space for so long without it corrupting a person’s very soul. It caused another thought to occur to her. Its peculiar appearance was a stark contrast of the beautiful blue she once remembered. The light was asserting its dominance over the world, “Is it to prevent the Doom from returning?” Nala balled her hands into fists and nearly slammed them into the metal railing before hanging her head low. “What was the point of it all when these beasts remain albeit in different colors?” Another sigh escaped her lips, but a chuckle soon followed behind it. Her lips curved upwards, and the wistful gleam reflected just as well in her eyes, “Hades would be groaning how unbecoming it is for a member of the Convocation to behave in such a fashion. Venat would assure me everything would be fine and Hythlodaeus would think of some sort of scheme to cheer me up.” Another gentle breeze passed by as she turned her gaze to the ballroom once more, “Well, I suppose ‘tis rather unlike me to wallow in self-pity, and there is nothing better than a great mystery to solve. Besides, I cannot abandon my duties despite my absence from the Convocation. I am positive there is much left to offer me.”

Nala stood up straight and began to head back to the interesting couple until an overwhelming pressure asserted itself at the forefront of her head once again.

“Never forget the path we walk.”

Her eyes widened in shock, “That voice…but…when did she impart such knowledge to me?”

She shook it off. She would have to mull over that later, but either way, she knew she would take them to heart regardless. With her resolve slight restored, she entered the dining area where the happy couple awaited her and took her seat.

“You’re looking a lot better,” Dulia-Chai stated, a relieved smile forming on her lips. “How do you feel?”

There was a pause, causing her to grow worried yet again, but it quickly settled when her guest returned hers with one of her own> however, it appeared somewhat devious in nature, “Confused still, but I will be fine. This is a great deal to process, and I never thought I’d wake up one day with amnesia. I shall overcome it.”

“Still, it is outrageous to have simply vanished and of such great length,” Chai-Nuzz stated thoughtfully. It was only natural when an individual was to experience a traumatic event to wipe all traces of it from their mind or simply repress them until something triggered it. Of course, the Flood of Light warranted the need to do so. She was likely already in her prime, established her family and the like during the beginnings of the event due to her race’s longevity…or so he heard. Watching all her loved ones being warped into creatures of death, her home destroyed only to be one of the few survivors from her homeland. Very few managed to retreat to a sanctuary, but her natural instincts and abilities gave her an advantage to escape. “Surely, there must be something to restore them if you have a desperate need to do so. Otherwise, I suggest you remain patient to provide them an opportunity to return on their own.”

“Yes, I plan on doing just that,” she nodded in agreement. “I suppose the first step in such a journey is by asking questions. I have received a few of my answers while I was detained or in the presence of Lord Vauthry. However, I am curious as to what need is there to retreat to a haven such as this, where the creatures lurk?”

“To put it simply—there was little else to go,” the man responded with a slight tilt of his head. “When the flood happened, it destroyed the environment and sin eaters birthed to life. They ravaged the land, transforming those who were afforded another day to live as their areas spared by the Oracle of Light when she stopped the flood. The mayor extended his hand towards those who lost their homes and set up the armies to keep us safe. However, when Vauthry was born, he held the ability to keep the beasts tamed in his presence. Splendid ability to have, but as he rose to power, Eulmore was no longer a place for the common riff raff to enter. Only those from…privileged families were given a home here so we may spend our final days in paradise so long as we handed over our fortune. We few, but plenty, are known as free citizens.”

“That’s rather interesting,” Charis muttered to herself. “So the free are afforded a life of luxury. Are there others who are unable to obtain on such wealth, yet found a place here?”

“Of course, and they are known as bonded citizens,” Chai-Nuzz continued in his explanation. “As they have nothing to offer to add to the coffers, they instead, find employment with the free citizens based on their needs and/or…desires. Some number have lived here their whole lives and bring family members if able.”

Nala did not like the sounds of any of this. The bonded citizens were being manipulated in their own right. They were degrading themselves just to remain safe from the danger in the greater world. This was a stark difference from what she was accustomed to. It was as though these new races did not value each other’s lives as well as she and the others did. Her heart wilted at the thought, but she found herself also angered by their blatant disregard for mankind. They were almost as bad as the rest of the Convocation. At least with her colleagues, they acknowledged the fact there was trouble and sought a means to end the true disaster while lesser problems involved them watching with indifference to see how events would resolve.

She felt conflicted on proceeding any further with the conversation. It would prove pointless to argue against a point they accepted as their existence. She sighed to herself as she felt her emotions spilling all over. Had this been the past, several objects would be found broken in a matter of seconds due to her out of control aether, “Pray tell, how exactly does he find these bonded citizens? And what consequence befalls the individual should their worth be found…wanting?”

“You’re certainly full of questions aren’t you?” Chai-Nuzz countered in slight awe. “He sends his scouts to nearby locales if their fortunate enough to retain any life among them and based on a patron’s current need are they requested. If they do not live up to their so-called talents, they are cast out of the city or sent to Lord Vauthry for judgement.” His eyebrows furrowed and crossed his arms over his chest as he thought back to the most recent bonded citizen under his scrutinizing gaze, “Much like that artiste’ we recently sent on his way. Blasted man stated he was a professional, but his work indicated otherwise.”

Dulia-Chai’s expression softened a bit in response to his harsh statement, “Dearie, I still believe you were a bit too hard on the young man. He was merely doing as you asked in his own expressive way.”

“I know dearest, b-but he clearly could not present my love for you as well as he p-proclaimed,” he countered bitterly. Honestly, he did not understand her half the time, but she was far too lenient yet he loved her dearly for her beautiful heart and her never-ending kindness. He would not trade it for the world. “I will not tolerate anything less than perfection.”

“Ms. Dulia is an awfully sweet woman,” Nala mused to herself. “She appears complacent with her lifestyle despite what it may cost.”

“Is something amiss?” Chai-Nuzz questioned in curiosity. “Another headache I presume?”

The Viera shook her head sadly as her mind drifted elsewhere, “No, I was thinking of someone I loved. Despite all of his gripes, he was always there for me. We lived a modest life so I did not ask for much during any sort of celebration, yet he delivered them magnificently in their own way.”

“Oh how sweet,” Dulia practically cooed. “Whatever happened to your husband?”

The mere question was enough to cause a tear to threaten to escape as his visage came to mind, “I do not know. We fought before everything shattered and in my anger, I strove to find another path towards a better future. Since my memory is vague at best after my departure, I’m unsure as to what became of him, but I do hope I can find him again and tell him how sorry I am.”

“Well, I do hope you can find him soon,” the Miqo’te stated happily. “He sounds absolutely charming and I would love to meet him.”

Nala suppressed the urge to laugh as she thought of her beloved. The man outwardly carried himself in an entirely different manner than what she was expecting so if the opportunity were to present itself, she would be in a due surprise, “Thank you. Truly. ‘Tis a far stretch to simply force it all to come back to me in a miniscule amount of time, but I believe the years lost to me shall return at some point. So, I believe once I have settled down within the city well enough, I’ll branch off elsewhere and explore the world.” She looked to her hip to realize her lack of a weapon and released a sheepish grin, “Once I’ve been given access to my rapier at least and shaken off the rust to time. Those sin eaters shall not know what hit them. Now…”

Ignoring their surprised stares at her bold declaration, the Warrior of Light stood to her feet and bowed to them once again, “Thank you again for your hospitality. I think my decision has been made.”

Chapter Text

“These are to be your quarters,” the elderly general announced, opening the door to a bedroom. A scoff escaped his lips as he watched the Viera slowly observed the inside with faint curiosity, “I hope you were not expecting something exquisite, given your status.”

Charis shook her head in denial, “No, I was not. I am appreciative of anything given to me, so I thank you for virtually any hospitality you have provided me.”

Ran’jit merely stared at her for moment with his consistent, hardened expression before turning his back to his bonded charge, “You are to report to the gates of Eulmore in two days’ time at the sixth bell, where I shall access your skills for myself and determine whether you shall truly benefit us efficiently. I advise you to not be late.”

With nothing else to say, he departed in the direction they came from, leaving Charis alone to her own thoughts. The former ancient noted his tone—the man did not tolerate any sort of foolishness. He was a hardened warrior by the harsh conditions of his world and the battles wrought against the sin eaters that likely snatched away his loved ones. Simply by observing his posture alone, she saw absolutely no openings—he was always on guard. Nothing could surprise him; prepared for any and every event. Everything regarding the man meant he was a true force to be reckoned with and the reason he was well respected by Vauthry. She would have to be careful around him if she was to directly work under him. He was far worse than her Hades.

A sigh escaped her lips as she entered her accommodations. Her ruby eyes examined the room in faint awe. The walls, like the main hall was lined with purple wallpaper, with golden trimming. The windows across the room were draped with golden see-through curtains, which would provide her with a view of the calm waters below. Her bed, placed in front of another set of windows, was a modest sized, dressed in what she assumed to be high-quality linens.  To her right was another door, presumably to the privy. With the events that transpired in these past few days, she could use one to freshen up a bit. To her left was a closet, an armoire, and another peculiar…dresser for her clothing. Unless Ran’jit requested a wardrobe to be sent to her room prior to her arrival, she had little use for them right now. Then again…She examined the insides of the satchel given back to her and pulled out a moderate pouch from it and shaking it a few times to hear coins clashing against another.

“I suppose my experiences these past hundred years has afforded me quite some time,” she mused to herself. “But why must I be paid for my assistance? Is this how they show gratitude for my kindness? I suppose once I’m acclimated, I can peruse the…boutique for suitable attire. I wonder if they have robes as the clothing the other citizens looks rather stuffy.”

Charis placed her satchel and the wardrobe gifted to her by Dulia-Chair neatly on the bed and walked towards the window. Her heart remained heavy and her mind yet riddled with thoughts. She doubted they would ever settle, maybe with time they would. As she gazed upon the waters, another brother brutal pain erupted in her head and felt her mind leaving the present.

A particular scenery filled her mind. She was on a large island, surrounded by the prettiest ocean waters as far as the eye could see. On the land itself, at least in her surrounding area, were trees filled with fruit, mostly apples, but in her soft, brown hands were grapes.

“These grapes are absolutely delicious,” she squealed in delight, as she leaned into her free hand and the bunch of ripe grapes in her other. “You must simply try these, Hades!”

Hades dropped his head as he released an annoyed sigh from his lips. His mask blocked the full view of his frustration as he lifted it back up, but she could yet see the piercing glare from his beautiful golden eyes. His lips could be seen twitching constantly beneath the shadow of the hood as well into the frown she had grown accustomed to, “Do not tell me you honestly summoned us here for grapes?! Do you not understand important business must be handled without your constant distractions?”

“Oh, don’t be that way,” interjected the man to her left with a lovely lavender braid revealing from his hood. “Our dear friend merely wished to share her discovery with us. After all, we must afford ourselves a breath of fresh air every once in a while.”

The scowl on Hades’ face deepened tremendously as he folded his arms over his chest, “Do not encourage her, Hythlodaeus. It shall only draw means for her to repeat the action again, when there are more pressing matters to attend to.”

The bright smile on Charis features remained unfaltering as she offered to the pleasant Hythlodaeus before he plucked a few for his taste buds. She then nudged the grumpier of the two while dangling the remaining few in his face as if it were some sort of temptation, “This is your last chance.”

Hades slumped over, realizing he would not win this nonsensical battle with the Traveler. He looked to Charis, his disgruntled expression faltering in the slightest, “Fine, but just this once.” The dour man grabbed the remaining bit of fruit before he proceeded to eat them. The sweet taste filled his mouth as he chewed it a few times and swallowed the fruit, much to the pleasure of his other half. He folded his arms over his chest and raised his eyebrow, “Satisfied?”

“How did they taste?” the woman requested eagerly with those hopeful red eyes, “Weren’t they delicious?”

“They sufficed for the moment,” he responded with far less enthusiasm. “Now with that settled, Azem, please condone yourself in the appropriate manner. Remember, you are now a member of the Convocation, and you are required to present yourself as such.”

Charis paused for a moment, thinking, then shook her head, “It’s like Hythlodaeus stated. That may be true, but what’s the point of living if we do not pause and simply enjoy what is around us. After all, we never know when our last day on the star will truly be. We must cherish the time afforded to us because we never know when that time presents itself to us.”

“Where is this coming from?” Hades questioned; his tone of annoyance ever present.

The Traveler turned around, gripping the stems, and stepped towards the water as she stared in no particular direction, “Call it the musings of a wanderer. I’ve seen many beautiful events and some just as tragic. Sometimes, I cannot help but wonder what will happen in the future. How will we be able to handle an unknown ordeal far beyond her capabilities.”

Hades’ eyebrows furrowed in response, “Why in the world would you suggest an absurd idea? It is our duty to guide our star towards an idea future, to prevent such absurd happenings in the first place—specifically yours.”

A sigh escaped her lips as her expression dropped, “But how many times has the Convocation ignored my calls? How many times did the majority state exactly as you have? Honestly, I get more aid from those I have encountered during my travels, barring you and Hythlodaeus of course. But…I understand the point where you are clearly trying to make. It’s…simply hard for me to ignore the possibility due to that reason…and the fact I have this very strange, dark, feeling at the pit of my stomach.”

Hythlodaeus raised a finger to his chin as he thoughtfully processed her words, “Your intuition is rather accurate. Perhaps, it is due to your intimate relationship with others that allows you to perceive these emotions and I for one trust your precautions. Emet-Selch may not speak these words, but I’m sure he feels the same.”

“Do not put words into my mouth,” said man countered with a growl.

“Thank you Hyth,” she answered kindly. “Despite this…negative feeling, I am ever determined to continue traveling, assisting other souls until my duty completed. And then…” The woman turned to her dearest friends and confidants, brimming with energy as she always did, “I shall return to the star or assume my duties in the same manner as my teacher to prevent that sort of future.”

Hades watched her carefully, noting her genuine concern. She was always ever honest with her feelings; finding no reason to lie or even omit the truth for her benefit. She was straightforward as it was the only way to find the heart of a matter, considering her line of duties. The man sighed in defeat, finally making his decision, “I will hold you to it Azem and I shall not hear another word of these musings uttered. However, your…insight will be taken into some consideration.”

“Ever one to please most honorable Emet-Selch,” the lavender haired man commented cheekily.

His eyes narrowed in disdain, “How many times must I reiterate—do not encourage her.”

Azem laughed to herself at the one-sided argument as the two dear friends went back and forth. She truly enjoyed these moments in time.

Charis’ mind returned to the present and the pain subsided. Unconsciously, a single tear streaked down the sides of her face. The longer she reminisced of those blissful days, the more often she felt her heart ache and yearn for the past. The events were clear, vivid, as though all of it transpired recently, but she knew at least a century had passed and there would be no turning back time, even through the strongest incantation. It simply was not possible. This was why she never took anything for granted, maybe the safety of her own life as she recklessly charged into the fray. If only the others understood her worries—then the Terminus could have been prevented and tragedy coinciding as well.

“Well, what do we have here?” questioned a new voice, snapping the Viera from her thoughts. Her ears, originally flattened at the top of her head shot up in recognition. “The vaunted hero of the Source as deigned to grace the common folk of the First with her presence. How very noble of you.”

Charis gripped at her chest; her breath hitched at the sound of that achingly familiar voice. When was the last time she heard it? Was it real or her mind simply playing games on her? “Could it be?”

Hesitantly, she turned her head, somewhat frightened of the actual truth, until her eyes landed on the source of the voice. The amnesiac Warrior of Light nearly stopped breathing, as she analyzed his features as he leaned against the wall. His burgundy hair was just below his ears, with a white tuft of silvery white at the front of his face. She trailed downwards to his clothing—they were fanciful to say the least—a stylish black military coat, adorned with gold along the chest and white fur along the trimmings as well as white gloves. Then there was his face. A white, marble like object sat in the center of his forehead. His eyes were a dull gold, but the shade and the strong features imprinted in her memory were unmistakable.

The man remained silent as he observed Charis in full concentration. She held that sparkle of familiarity in her red eyes, but it was clear to him that she almost did not believe what was right in front of her. His eyes narrowed slight, but there was a smirk daring to appear, “What? Cat has your tongue now does it? And here I thought it would be appropriate to introduce myself to you hero.”

The Traveler remained in a quiet stupor. This mysterious man’s voice was the same, his face practically identically, but the overall remaining appearance was different, but she would never know anything if she did open her mouth, “W…who are you?”

He removed himself from his perch and offered a small bow in response, “I thought you would never ask. I am Solus zos Galvus, founding father of the Garlean Empire. And under various guises, the architect of myriad other imperially inclined nations.”

The uncertainty returned to her face as she repeated his words, “The…Garlean…Empire…?”

A surge of pain returned, and she gripped her head almost immediately with the palm of her hand and waited as it faded away.

“It appears you’ve hit your head harder than you realized upon your arrival to this broken shard,” he stated with a tint of amusement to his voice. “But I cannot have you falling asleep so soon when I haven’t even finished my introduction. Despite the charade of the woman’s plight, he was peering deep into her soul, intrigued by her so. It burned so brightly, just as it did several millennia ago when the star was young, but she was in a sundered body, seven times rejoined. However, mention of his adopted persona and his former empire scarcely rekindled anything.

“I apologize, please continue,” she commented, shaking the pain off. However, the more she listened, that undeniable feeling only grew stronger by the second.

The smirk he offered to the Viera only seemed to broaden, “As for my true identity…” He raised his gloved hand over the front of his face, revealing a burning red glyph, signifying his rank. “I am Emet-Selch. Ascian.”

Charis’ eyes widened in shock as the figurative candle flickered on in her head as the beating of her heart instantly halted and her breath hitched in her throat. Tears of happiness welled in her eyes as she slowly stepped towards Emet-Selch. There was no denying the possibility now. He could alter his appearance, display an unnecessary amount of bravado, but he would always bear that title of his with the utmost pride. Whether he was among his colleagues within the Convocation or in the company of friends, he expressed his desire to be regarded solely by that. Her fervent wish, her prayer had finally come true, “’Tis truly a miracle.”

“There it is,” Emet-Selch mused to himself. The bright sparkle in her eye exploded into recognition. It was a shame in her sundered body she did not hold her soul sight or else he would not have needed to give that introduction. Although he did not wish to draw this moment out any further, he simply could not ignore the need to feign ignorance a little bit longer. “A miracle, you say. Please, elaborate.”

Charis threw her remaining objects in hand to the side and wiped away the tears blocking her vision, but her pained smile adorned her features as she stopped directly in front of the Ascian, “Stop playing games with me you big grump!” She threw herself at Emet-Selch; wrapping her arms around his neck as she buried her face into his upper chest. All her fears and doubts instantly vanished from her as she embraced her dearly beloved. She needed this upon her awakening, but it was better late than never. “Hades! Where have you….where have you been?! I-I thought I was truly alone.”

Emet-Selch’s expression softened, and he felt as though the weight of the world was finally lifted from his shoulders. His long-shattered heart was filled with glee, elation as he mirrored her act and pulled her in as tightly as possible, silently vowing to never let her go. The hard work for several millennia had befitted him with the greatest gift possible, twice fold. Yes, she was sundered, but she was the individual he wished to build a future with—the true future. His Charis was one of the only two individuals who accepted him for who he was despite his surface demeanor, while others shied away from him. She was even the reason he gained his seat as Emet-Selch were it not for her incessant demands to have him join her in those ridiculous escapades in the broader world. Admittedly, while it was not his place to meddle in the affairs of others, he could not ignore the need to assist in their plights when given the motivation or downright begged.

However, regardless of their feelings towards one another, Charis left him and their people behind because she could not condone the millions of sacrifices that would be given to the star to summon Zodiark. He begrudgingly accepted her decision after time elapsed. Yet, he regretted it all the same. Charis was alone, barely surviving the onslaught of beasts for days, weeks, without him at her side or their other dear friend. Using any of her aether would cause more beasts to be summoned, effectively killing her and the thought nearly drove him insane. However, Her actions caused Charis’ imminent death, sending her weary soul to the Underworld until reincarnated several times over and seven times rejoined.

“I must apologize for the tardiness,” he whispered quietly into her ear. “’Twas not my intention to leave you without assistance. I…” He paused for a moment as the sea of emotions he had not experienced in a while rushed forward. “I’m sorry for everything.”

Charis looked up to Emet-Selch and through her own teary eyes, she gazed upon his dull golden eyes that appeared to hold back the tears threatening to surface from his as well. Her heart shattered. These were the eyes of a man wrought by sadness and the weight of the entire star upon him. She had always known him to be bound to his duty ever since he attained his seat, causing the lines upon his brow to deepen and double in number. While it was not as apparent in his current features, she could see the years had made their mark in her absence. Furthermore, it seemed his eyes even reflected the sort of activities he participated in over the time since she saw him last, “Please, there is no need to apologize. All that matters is that we’re together again.”

Charis moved her hand and cupped his cheek into it tenderly, refusing to break her gaze. She leaned in until she allowed their lips to touch, no longer denying what was there. This was her method to display that she was fully returned to him; at his side once more and that she’d never leave again. No matter what would happen, whether they argued over differing opinions, or he frustrated by her intolerable behavior, she’d always find him to reconcile.

Initially, Emet-Selch found himself surprised by his soulmate’s abrupt kiss, but in moments, he succumbed to it and kissed back with newfound passion. It was rare for them to elicit in such activities unless it was for some sort of special event in their lives, but now, he wished they had engaged in a more. It was as she had said on that far off island, they never knew when their time would come. Oh, how right she was.

Charis pulled away, catching her breath as her affectionate gaze returned, “I’ve missed you so much Hades. However…”

“Hm…?” Emet-Selch questioned with a raised eyebrow. “Out with it, you know I hate waiting.”

“I know you do,” she responded with a small giggle.

Hades missed that small laugh of hers; those beautiful red eyes filled with wonder, mischievousness, and elations, yet a heightened wisdom all the same. Her current incarnation as Nala, retained two of these three traits just as well, providing him a small remembrance of the woman he cherished, but it was never quite the same. Charis always loved to press him buttons at any given moment, even amid an ordeal, a trait he actually missed.

As the Ascian was lost in his recollections, he failed to notice the movement of her hand until he felt a stinging sensation on his cheek where her hand had just rested easily. He blinked once, twice, three times, before he finally processed what just occurred. His lips curved downwards, and his eyes narrowed as he straightened his body out and his ire known, “What is the meaning of this? I deign to rescue you from this ill-begotten fate, and you are retaliated?”

Charis tears streamed more freely at this point as she matched his anger, “While I may be relieved by the circumstances, do not think for a moment I’ve forgotten!” She averted her gaze for a moment as she resolved to speak her mind. She could not ignore this now that she had struck him in this fashion. “I told you little benefit would come from summoning…Zodiark. Not only were countless lives sacrificed for nothing, but those creatures yet remain! While those few I had the privilege to examine within Autry’s chambers held altered qualities, their forms are forever burned into my mind.”

Emet-Selch sighed as he shook his head. Of course, her feelings remain unchanged—it was the last conversation there held, “I did what was warranted and necessary. How else were we to restore our star to its former beauty? We so…” He clenched his hands into fist. As the frustration built up as he was reminded of that failure. “Had we those final opportunities…”

“And what? Sacrifice more lives?” she continued, her eyes darkening further.

“The result would be as desire,” he pressed angrily. “Were it not for Venat and her followers our star would be as it were before Terminus. Do not make me out to be a villain when she committed a greater atrocity than the Convocation.”

Charis gasped and paused for a moment, “W-what do you mean? What did Venat do?”

Emet-Selch bit his tongue, “She does not remember.” He sighed again; why was he getting angry at her? It had been twelve thousand years since they were in each other’s company and practically butting heads. She was ignorant of all that transpired, and it was his responsibility to be patient. What a right fool he was being, “’Tis of no import currently my dear, not in your state.”

Her expression hardened and she took a calming breath, “Fine then. Then do you mind answering this? How in good conscious could you send our people to the Underworld for your god? The man I fell in love with would have never done that!”

“Stubborn to a fault,” he thought, groaning. Her narrow-minded view brought him no small amount of frustration and no ma matter how many times he attempted to speak his viewpoint, she flew into a fit of rage prior to her departure. “You know the type of man I am. I would never turn my back on our people. Would you have been satisfied had we done nothing at all? What of the damage wrought by those creatures spawned by our aether? Were it not for Him, then our star would have been annihilated altogether. At least with His summoning, we had a chance to start over. Do you not remember the damage as a result in the first place?”

“I…I do…,” she answered, dropping her gaze. “But…”

“But what?” he asked. “There was no other recourse.

“Of all people, how could you even ask Hythlodaeus to go along with it?” she asked, another tear streaking her beautiful face.

“I didn’t ask,” he continued somberly, the weight crashing upon him once more. “He offered his soul, despite what my thoughts were about the situation. The smug fool left his faith in us that we would return him along with the rest of our population and refused to take no for an answer. But it was the same for the others as well. We offered our suggestion, and they willingly gave their souls. Do you not commend our people as I do?”

Emet-Selch had tensed up as he spoke of their friend’s adamant spirit. At the time, he had already lost his Charis, but when Hythlodaeus volunteered himself, His heart truly shattered. He vowed to bring them back through whatever means necessary, but Venat went and ruined it all, “We were so close.”

The Viera said nothing as she listened to him. It was undeniable that he suffered tremendously from the losses, but she could not completely condone his actions even if the people did as they chose to, “This is all too…frustration. I want to be furious with you, but honestly, what is the point when everything has already happened. Since I departed…” She leaned back into her soulmate as she permitted her emotions to settle, “You had no one to turn to vent or ease your mind. It was my fault for leaving you alone in that state and forcing you to do as needed. Mayhap it was the correct decision but I’m still trying to understand it all.”

“Do not push yourself,” he stated softly, returning his arms around her body. Her soul was in an extreme amount of turmoil, mind filled with confusion, but he would mend it all in their time together. “I understand how you may feel. Had our positions reversed, then I certainly would feel the same. Now, it is my time to make an inquire of my own. What events are you able to recall exactly?”

Charis blinked slowly as she searched through her mind. Everything remained a mess. There were those small memories she retained of this current life that continued to interfere with her memories as Charis, causing her confusion to return along with her headache, “I do not know. It is rather difficult to explain. Ever since I awakened in this world, my memories have been muddled to say the least. There is this other name…a whole new life where I am called by Nala, but I do not ever remember donning such a mantle. Then, my memories regarding that name are few and between.”

“Interesting,” he mumbled quietly. “Her memories as the Warrior of Light are gone. If I can keep her recollections limited, then she will remain at my side.” He chuckled wistfully as he wiped away the tear trying to streak his face in response to his emotions. He swore to not lose her again. Hades moved his arms and placed a single finger under her chin, slowly lifting it upwards so she could fully meet his gaze, “Do not worry yourself over the cause of those memories. They are unimportant to you and offer little assistance to your plight.”

“I thought so, but….what am I to do with them?” she countered hesitantly. “There may be something-“

“I assure you, they are not,” he persisted further.

Charis stared into his eyes—so full of resolve and a confidence that he always promised. She sighed and offered a kind smile, “If you say so. I will avoid pressing the issue for now. In fact, do you think, something can be done about them for now? I wish not confuse myself right now.”

The Ascian suppressed the urge to grin in response to her request, “All you need is to ask my love.”

She paused and tilted her head to the side, “Thank you. and I hope I can have you to rely on in helping me adjust to this land. Which reminds me,” She took her hand and combed her fingers through his hair. “I suppose you have taken this form to blend in with the locals I take it.”

“Yes, but I am capable to return to what it once was if you so desire my love,” he responded carefully. “Anything to leave you at ease.”

She closed her eyes as she pondered his request and chuckled softly, “I think it is fine Hades. After all, ‘tis only fair considering I appear in this form. We are similar to our old appearances yet different to account for our new reality, but I also see you are no longer perpetually disgruntled every waking moment.”

“Well of course not,” he answered. “I was not forced to deal with your incorrigible behavior for quite some time. Admittedly, it was a relief to receive peace and quiet.”

Charis rolled her eyes in response, “Don’t be like that. I know you missed your sporadic summons.”

“If you mean babysitting you for extended periods of time and ensuring you did not mortally wound yourself, then no, I did not,” he answered returning the gesture. “How he missed this banter with her. She refused to take no for an answer just like their other friend, but that was one of her traits her found most endearing about her. He felt at ease in her presence, like he could be his true self once more, not that he lost his sense of it in the first place.

She pressed her lips against his once more before pulling away, “I’m grate for everything you do. Please, do not leave me again. I don’t know what I’d do without you again.”

His features softened as he offered a small nod, “I’d never dream of it. And I shall do everything within my ability to earn your forgiveness.”

The amnesiac Red Mage released him and walked towards her bed, “Thank you. Now that we have this matter settled, I believe I am in dire need of a shower to clear my mind and freshen up. After all, it seems there are a few long days ahead of me.” She paused for a moment and shot an inquisitive look in his direction, “Are you not going to stop me from assisting Lord Vauthry and Ran’jit?”

Emet-Selch shrugged as he shook his head and placed a hand on his hip, “Even if I were to dare attempt, you would never listen. In fact, my insistence would further motivate you.”

“I’m glad you know me so well,” she chirped brightly. She rummaged through the set of clothing given to her by the beast like woman, only for a frown to adorn her expression. The former ancient turned her attention to her other half with an innocent look, “Hades, would you mind creating me a few sets of smallclothes and a night gown?”

“You needn’t be all shy for a basic necessity,” he sighed. A loud snap soon echoed through the room and several sets appeared on the bed. “That should suffice for the moment.”

Her eyes widened, but quickly chuckled to herself, “Yes they will.” She grabbed a set of small clothes and entered the bathroom provided to her, leaving Hades to his thoughts.

“It seems as though a barrier is blanketing her recollections,” he mused to himself. “It is a miracle within itself that such an occurrence should transpire, but I have reason to believe She is the cause of it. No matter, ‘tis better that she does not recall the tragedies after she departed our home that day. However, I must tread carefully if she does retain the few of this new life she has lived these past decades on the Source, else we may be forced to a round a fisticuffs I’d rather avoid. I will not lose you again.”

“Hades!” called the panicked voice of Charis, snapping the man out of his thoughts. “Your assistance is needed!”

Another sigh escaped his lips, but his smile returned. She always found a way to make the simplest things difficult, “Coming my dear.”

-

The Crystal Exarch watched pensively as the Warrior of Light chattered away with an unknown individual within her chambers with obvious familiarity and affection. He had never suspected another soul would know the woman in this world, barring the Scions of course. Due to the fact the two were within the halls of Eulmore, it was hard to discern if this was going to cause issues during his efforts to save this dying world, “Although his presence does appear to provide her relief in her situation, I can only hope we can release her from her captivity.” The hooded leader sighed to himself as he tapped his rod causing the mirror to release the events. “I cannot apologize enough for what of sort of trouble I have presented you to.”

The sound of the large doors behind him caught his attention and turned to see the two identical figures standing in the middle. A faint smile could be seen beneath the hood, “Ah, you’ve arrived. Thank you both for coming so swiftly. There is much we must discuss.”

-

The room was dark. The effect was created by the dark black curtains of Hades’ making. Charis complained about being unable to sleep with an intense light shining through the windows so he happily made the accommodations. Due to his reasons as well, he would be unable to slumber in her presence with the nauseating presence. However, that was as ever, the least of his concerns. His top priority was Charis.

He towered over her sleeping form next to her bed, watching as her chest rose and fell peacefully beneath the linens. He reached a hand to the side of her face, gingerly stroking it so as to not awaken her. He paused as his wistful smile returned, “You will have every right to be frustrated with my decisions in the past twelve millennia. ‘Twas not decisions I made lightly and the guilt yet lingers in an abyss I wish not to delve into, but now that you are whole enough to have awakened what was lost to you brings me no greater joy knowing my efforts weren’t all for naught.”

A few incoherent mumbles escaped her lips as she rolled over in the oversized bed. She was wholly unaware of his presence as he parted briefly after he created her curtains before he would join her. She was ignorant of her husband’s hand settle on the top of her head as he closed his eyes or even the dark aether surrounding his hand and her body shortly afterwards.

The Ascian opened his mind’s eyes and beheld of the lives she lived. His next actions would cause for caution so as to not suppress the critical memories of their world, but luckily, those few memories as Nala were scarce. Images of her time in Gelmorran Jungle, initial arrival into Ul’dah, and her brief interactions with Lahabrea’s former host, “As I cast this veil over my beloved, her former life will be of no further value. She played at her heart and convinced her that we ancients are the villains in an attempt to keep her firm grip over her pupil. Charis shall be the bearer of her fate. No longer will you remain blinded by the fallacies of the broken creatures.”

One after another, he suppressed everything that was insignificant to her as of now, only leaving those created upon her arrival in the First; another matter he’d need to delve into. His eyes opened soon and dissipated his aether. With his job completed, he gave another quiet snap, changing his clothes to the simple black robes. An odd source of relief washed over him wearing this robe after such a terrible amount of time. While his beloved told him he was fine to continue sporting any fashion or appearance as he wished, her happiness and comfort always came first. Added, sleeping in Garlean attire would not offer him a comfortable rest he desired. And so, he climbed into the bed as silently as he could and crapped his arm over her protectively, drifting off into a dreamless sleep.

Chapter Text

The Crystal Exarch smiled warmly at the sight of the Elezen twins as they hurried to the center of the Ocular before him. Out of all the Scions upon their arrival, he remembered the heartbreak they felt being spirited away from their home and their dearest comrade. They spoke of her like children would their mother, given the wisdom she displayed for her age and the care she provided them once they fully joined the Scions. He nearly lost his life to Alisaie due to his abhorrent timing with how time flows between the two worlds and it required no small number of apologies to relief the spitfire girl of her anger. Using that to his benefit, he knew they would drop everything they were attending to in their respective regions once receiving the missive of good news, although, he was not direct as he should have been as the information would undoubtedly be devastating once it all came to pass.

He did advise the older Scions who scattered to the further regions of Norvrandt of her arrival and that she would be able to provide her assistance soon enough. At day’s end, they eagerly awaited her arrival to the light-engulfed shard as she was the sole individual who could fully avert the impending calamity to come. However, he had to resign himself to the fate that he would be hated again by the Source’s heroes. He wished his news held a brighter side to them.

“We came as fast as we could,” Alisaie commented, breathing heavily. Upon the moment of her landing at the Amaro launch, at the same time as her dear brother, the Red Mage disciple expended all her energies to arrive at the focal point of the Crystarium, leaving her brother behind. Now, she needed the opportunity to regain her oxygen.

“Is it true? Has Nala finally arrived?” Alphinaud inquired. He was not quite as worn out as his sister, but he did try to keep the pace behind her as even he could not deny the elation. His eyes were bright as he swiftly scanned the room to see it for himself, but his question was answered given by the lack of sight. “Where is she? In her chambers I assume?”

The Exarch lowered his gaze and stared at the floor beneath them as he forced himself to relay the good yet awful news. He’d hate to dash their hopes of their friend’s whereabouts and although he had warned the scholarly twin to remain in Kholusia as he was already in the vicinity, but the boy’s aspirations seemed to have gotten the better of him, “She is not, my friends. Unfortunately, during her summons, her arrival point was less than…accurate.”

A dread feeling appeared and plummeted to the pit of their stomachs, but the female Elezen could ultimately feel her anger and frustration rising. It was already bad enough he summoned all the Scions at inconvenient timing without their true bodies, but he had the audacity to continue in his desperate plea to call Nala when his spell had not been perfected, then he would feel the full length of her wraith. A low growl escaped her lips and she slowly approached him, seeing only red in her eyes, as she grabbed him by his cloak, staring him dead in his eyes, “What do you mean it was less than accurate?! Do you mean to say she has landed in the wilderness? Even if Nala is more than capable of handling herself, she has no idea of what’s going on here in the First!”

“Alisaie, please!” her brother stated in panic as he came to her side. “Now is not the time to allow your anger to get the better of you. Please, listen to what he has to say!”

“It’s fine Alphinaud,” the Exarch stated, the regret sinking in. “She has the right of it and I humbly apologize for my mistake, but that is why I requested your presence because she is somewhere a bit more hospitable than the wilds of Norvrandt.”

The female twin glared at him for a moment and released him from her hold, crossing her arms over her chest, “Well, where is she?”

“’Tis better if I show you,” he responded, casually fixing his robes along his chest.

He turned his back to the twins and tapped the bottom of his rod against the floor as he motioned for their attention to the mirror before him. The twins’ eyes widened as its view transitioned to the sight of Nala, dressed in simple garments for sleeping, speaking with a mysterious individual with extreme familiarity. The way she giggled was that of an adolescent schoolgirl as the man rolled his eyes in response and crossed his arms immediately afterwards, diverting his attention elsewhere. His garments were on the luxurious side, bespeaking of a high-ranking official. What was more, in the center of his forehead, truly caught their undivided attention: an imperial third eye.

“How can this be?” Alphinaud questioned to no one in particular.

As they continued to watch in fascination as the two went back and forth, they saw as Nala moved her hand to his cheek and turned his face to meet hers. In a matter of seconds, the annoyance completely dissipated from the man’s features as he leaned in for a kiss, eliciting a blush from the three.

Alisaie cleared her throat, as she turned away in embarrassment, “I believe, we’ve seen enough.”

Her brother turned away as he cleared his throat, “You are correct sister. Those two should be afford their…privacy.”

The Crystal Exarch said nothing as he only offered a nod of agreement as he terminated the view yet again. The room became silent as he gave the twins an opportunity to wrap their heads around what they had just witnessed.

“Nala is in the First, correct?” Alisaie asked for confirmation.

“Yes, she is,” he answered.

“Then why is she with a Garlean?” she continued in astonishment.

“And a rather high-ranking official if merely observing his attire,” the male Elezen probed further as he tried to discern the mystery before them. “However, I think the greater concern is our friend’s current whereabouts. So, where exactly is she?”

A large sigh escaped the Exarch’s lips before he finally deigned to answer the question, “Eulmore. My rather fumbling hand has caused her to land just outside of the city, but no sooner than after her arrival, she was taken into custody after a…skirmish or two. I cannot apologize enough for this occurrence.”

“In Eulmore?” Alphinaud repeated. “Well, the location is well off the mark regarding her intended destination. However, ‘tis a far better alternative than the wilderness of Kholusia, but this does bode ill.”

His sister nodded as, “I can only imagine. We both know how Nala feels about pompous, uptight individuals. You know, the ones who think their better than those around them.”

“Right you are,” he responded with an exasperated sigh. He remembered fondly how the older woman berated him for his haughty attitude on several occasions. Maybe if he had listened to her, then some of the events with the Crystal Braves wouldn’t have transpired. The prodigy also should have heeded the words of the Exarch sent in his missive as the task of monitoring his efforts in the begotten region would have been far easier. Then again, it was better he witnessed these events for himself, or he’d refuse to believe it in the first place.

“Now, I suppose our next problem will be is figuring out a way to gain access to the city,” she commented, slowly balling her hands into fists. “I’ve heard the rumors. They’ve practically turned their backs to the rest of the world, indulging in their lavish society as if there’s nothing left for them. Only a select amount of the privileged may receive entry. Even if we had access to our family’s coffers back home, I would not hand over a single gil. I’d rather fight and beat the odds thrown at us.” The teenager breathed in as calm as she could and exhaled it in an attempt to reel in her raging nerves. “So, how would you propose we get into the city?”

The Crystal Exarch mused to himself. He did have one method, but should their identity be discovered once their magicks wore off, then they would likely find themselves in the same predicament as their comrade. This was a delicate situation indeed, “I suggest the two of you pose as ‘bonded’ citizens by appealing to the demands of their so-called scouts.”

The male twin offered a broad smile, “I believe that matter should already be solved as my interests in monitoring Eulmore from the outskirts has led me to such an endeavor. Upon our departure sister, I will fill you in on the details, but the mission will require you to be on your best behavior.”

The jab at her temperament caused his sister to roll her eyes, but she quickly returned a jeering smirk of her own in response, “Of course brother, but I will ask you to do the same. After all, I’m sure you will fit right in. However, I am still concerned about a Garlean being here on the First. I thought you said they were no such individuals remaining.”

“As far as I am aware,” the Exarch mentioned. “However, similar to those in the Source, they may have lived in a region far beyond the borders of the remaining five regions, one completely wiped out by the Flood with him as the sole survivor.”

A small grumble escape Alphinaud’s lips, “No, that would be far to convenient.” This was the last thing they needed to happen but thinking of the words of the former Warriors of Light caused a creeping suspicion to arise as to who or what the man was, “He may be an Ascian.”

-

Charis’ eyes fluttered open as she awakened to the world after a long ‘night’ of rest, but after a moment, she closed them again to return to the realm of dreams. Unfortunately, her body did not permit her to do so as she was fully awake at this point. She opened her eyes once more and through her hazy vision she was allowed to perceive her other half sleeping peacefully just as well in his own slumber. His arm was draped protectively over her body, like a precious gift he refused to let go. His breath brushed against her skin, causing a light chuckle to escape her lips. Everything about this moment-the warmth of his body pressed against hers, the silent intakes of air, and the long-forgotten tranquility upon his expression sent her heart aflutter. It was a shame she had to put Hades to work by adding her curtains to block out the light, but his aether reserves were expansive, so creating a trivial object was merely a drop in an ocean. Even a particular friend had an awful habit of requesting him for aid for something so miniscule, but no matter the complaints, he attended to their needs, “Always a worrywart and a people pleaser, when you want to be.”

A small groan sounded from his lips as those few words was enough to rouse him from his own slumber, “As stated previously, someone must keep you out of trouble.” He pulled the Viera in tighter, securing her position, ensuring she did not attempt to escape his grasp for any reason. His eyelids opened, revealing his dim golden eyes, so full of longing as he gazed upon her red, “How do you fare?”

“Refreshed,” she answered with a graceful smile. She briefly reflected over the course of the recent few days within Eulmore in silence before speaking again, “I cannot explain how it feels to be back in a comfortable bed and in your arms. Those other accommodations did not provide any sort of comfort to me. Although it did provide the basic necessities, it was something left to be desired. It is as though they have no respect for their fellow man.”

“Times have changed, people are not as generous to one another,” he spoke gravely, as he released another sigh. He removed his arm from her body and rolled the lavish beddings from their bodies as he set up in the bed as her eyes followed in his movements. He threw his legs over the side of his bed as he gave a snap, shifting his garments to those he had grown accustomed to in his most recent mortal life. His back hunched, shoulders slumped as his expression darkened. His hands balled into fists as this shard was a brutal reminder of the imperfection displayed among these half-broken creatures. “You have observed the conceit nature of these husks of our fallen society. If they are to survive, they will stoop to the darkest pits of the Underworld to satisfy their needs.”

Charis listened to him carefully. She knew the sound of this tone. He spoke from experience. He lived through it; among the new life created upon their star. Hades saw them for their imperfections the moment her arrived and she did as well. Although, it was plainly clear he held a far better insight than she did at this point. After all, only a century had passed and that was enough for him to observe to reach a conclusion.

 “However, I will not paint myself to be a saint for your sake my love,” Hades continued as he stood to his feet. As he turned around, he held that steely expression, visually informing Charis he meant business. However, she could see the uneasiness and the anxiety building deep within. He was scared, though he would not openly admit it. He did not want to lose her again due to the choices he made over the course of the twelve thousand years, but he understood how crucial it was to rebuild his trust, their relationship. He could remain silent in some respects, but this…it was imperative for her to know now if they wished to moved forward. In my time since your slumber begun, I have acted in the same manner as these creatures in my tenure as a ruler of a nation of my design. I ordered soldiers of my own to complete any and all asked of me whether it was to spread chaos, subjugating the lesser races, or simply imprisoning them. Lives were lost in the process, thousands various situations, but it was a necessity. The reasons behind such actions can be further elaborated once time has passed.”

Charis merely stared at him as she processed his words carefully. None of it made sense to her. For what reasons did he have to be a ruler? Why would he torment people through such pain and conflict for a means to an end in the lifetime she’s been away? So many questions lingered in her head, but there were clearly not enough answers. Again, the confliction and guilt reflected heavily in his eyes. She simply wanted to pull him in and reassure him that it would be alright just as he did her. The Viera sat up in her bed and reached out for his hands before wrapping them around as she gazed deeply in his eyes.

A pained smile curved upwards onto her lips, “Hades, I honestly have no idea what you’re speaking of and yet I can’t imagine what sort of tragedies you committed in my absence, but I must ask, why do you continue to think I’ll value you any less? I understand and acknowledge my departure was under stressful conditions, and so I’m going to hold myself accountable for forcing you to do what you have.” The Viera inched closer to the edge of her bed before Hades and slowly wrapped her arms around his neck as she pulled him in, carefully pressing her forehead against his, “You sacrificed our people to summon Zodiark, so why am I not surprised you would do the same to these people? However, while I am unable to truly support your actions, I shall not deny you either. Instead, I shall accept you for who you are. Honestly, you are much too serious for your own good. It’s no wonder you still have these wrinkles on your face.”

Emet-Selch felt his steely resolve melting away in mere instants as he stood in her embrace, but a low growl yet escaped his lips, “I am being serious.” He wanted nothing to do with her games. He had to confirm her loyalty, but it appeared to him she had already made up her mind. She would not shield her eye to the truth before her as she understood his situation to the best of her given knowledge. Unlike the common man or those colleagues, she immersed herself with in this current life, she would not condemn him for his life’s goal and sole purpose for living, nor was she blinded by Hydaelyn’s light any longer. How fortunate he was to find his beloved after she traveled across the rift, a mystery he would delve into once given the opportunity.

Charis planted a kiss against his lips in an effort to calm his nerves. She did not mind his apparent stiffness as she made a silent promise to herself that she would tear down his walls again, “I cannot apologize enough but I promise I will not permit you to endure this cruel burden placed upon you alone any longer. Once I regain my full bearings, I shall assist you through whatever means necessary and save you whether you want me to or not.”

Her passionate voice, conviction steadied was enough to make his heart shatter. What did he do to deserve a partner so magnificent? He had fallen so far in these several millennia and she saw straight through him for it. With his, Lahabrea’s, and Elidibus methods to rejoin the worlds to reclaim those souls lost to the sacrifices and the amount of time that passed, he was the only one to retain his sense of self and so the weight built upon him to no end. Despite her words, he was unsure if she would still accept it. However, at least her judgements would no longer be swayed by what she witnessed in this current world. She’d witness and understand the differences between this broken reality and make her own judgements once she saw the full picture. He sighed to himself as he often did in her presence as he was often unable to tame her incorrigible habits, “Honestly, what am I going to do with you?”

“You’ll deal with it and comply as you always have,” the Viera responded cheekily, granting another peck on his cheek.

“One of these days, I shall leave you well enough alone,” he groaned as he wrapped his arms around her. He leaned in to return the prior kiss without so much as a second thought and they stayed that way for several minutes until he pulled away. “Now, I did as you have asked as you slept away. What of your memories?”

She closed her eyes and paused as she scanned her mind for what plagued her before. There only remained her life in Etheirys up until she stepped foot out of the city and awakening in the outskirts of Eulmore, “I can see everything clearly. I…for the life of me…cannot remember why those conflicting memories troubled me before. This feels…right.”

A glint twinkled in his eyes, “As it should.”

A tinge of red soon spread across her cheeks as a low grumble erupted from her stomach, signaling the woman she went far too long without nourishing herself, “I guess we both know what time it is now.”

“It is to be expected,” Emet-Selch responded with a light chuckle. “You have gone through a great deal in the past several days and have you ever been one to neglect your needs.”

He snapped his fingers and, in an instant, both of their attires changed. His clothes returned to the heavily decorated attire as the first emperor of Garlemald, while Charis’ shifted to the ones provided to her by the middle-aged Mystel. Hades' eyes widened in disbelief while he gazed upon her beauty. The long-sleeved top was black with red cuffs and collar with golden accents as well as matching buttons. Her shorts were just that-he could barely see them from underneath the top, but they appeared to be black as well and long thigh length boots. To top it all off was a small black beret fitted between her ears and short black gloves. He had to admit, the Mystel did hold a rather exquisite taste and perfectly fitted his Charis. Hades had to catch himself in his stupor, “You look stunning my dear. You’re nearly the spitting image of your former self.”

Charis smiled happily as the small blush quickly expanded to her entire face at his compliment, “I’m glad you think so. Personally, I think it is a little too…extravagant for my taste, but if I am to blend in while I am here. Besides, it would be a shame if I broke Ms. Dulia-Chai’s heart. She did gift it to me after all.”

“Sentimental to a fault,” Hades sighed as he shrugged his shoulders. “Now, what would you like to eat?”

Her expression grew thoughtful as she considered her possibilities. Again, Hades could simply snap something into existence, but the taste of conjured food was not so appealing. Another place came to mind and a bright smile appeared, “Let’s go see what is available in the eater near the teleportation crystal. While we are there, maybe we can pick up on our prior discussion.”

“Of course you do,” Hades commented as he walked towards the door. He opened it and presented an over exaggerated bow, signaling her to proceed first.

The two exited the room, closing the door behind Them. Charis speedily went ahead past all the doors leading to the other soldiers’ rooms until she reached the staircase where she promptly began her descent. Meanwhile, the Ascian trudged slowly behind at his own pace, but soon enough, Charis took notice of his movement speed. She turned around, midway down the stairs as he only just reached the first step, walking as though the pressure of everyone’s plight weighed heavily upon him, if evident by the extreme slump in his shoulders. Her eyes fell, “What did you go through Hades? Do you feel as though you failed our star?”

Hades paused upon noticing her worried her worried expression and her hand slowly reached towards her heart. She was far too perceptive for her own good, but it was a necessity given her role, but it extended well beyond such when it came to his well-being. He could not hide anything from her. The smallest inkling of pain, she would sniff it out and pry him for further information. He would have to be careful, “What is it? How many times must I tell you to use your words instead of your incessant staring? You are worse than a child.”

“It’s…it can wait once we’ve gotten a bit of food,” Charis stated sadly. Hades hated lies and she did as well. It was a creed they lived by in their society – to never lie to one another. So, it left her condiment that he would answer her questions bit by bit until all of the pieces connected into place.

He shrugged as he continued behind her as they proceeded down the staircase leading into the foyer. Charis felt refreshed as she stared in awe at the number of citizens going about their daily life. She had practically ignored it all in her shame and embarrassment prior. She wanted to explore it all and gain that intimate knowledge of the new life existing. An empty table caught her attention at the café on the other side of the room and hurriedly made her way over to it before another could snatch it up. The Traveler waited several moments in solitude until Hades finally arrived and pulled a chair back to take his seat.

“It took you long enough,” Charis stated with a giggle.

As per usual, a sigh escaped his lips, “The food is not going anywhere. Then again you have always made it a point to sample the local’s delicacies, but I advise you to be careful lest you find yourself in the same predicament as Eulmorans.”

Charis tilted her head in confusion, “What do you mean? Are the foods…lacking?”

His eyes grew dark and heavy as he gave a slow nod, “There is one in particular you should be especially wary of-the meol.”

At the center of the table, a white meat bun appeared, similar to what she had naught else to partake in during her imprisonment. Her eyes widened, “I’ve had one of those.”

“I noticed as much upon our encounter,” he answered carefully.

“What do you mean?” she asked with further confusion at his words.

The Ascian sighed as he picked up the bun into the palm of his hands, spinning it for her observation, “The meol is a…staple of sorts for the citizens of Eulmore and the surrounding civilizations, eaten without a care in the world as the primary source of nourishment.”

Charis immediately did not enjoy where the conversation was going. The tinge of seriousness in his voice was solidified by the observant stare towards the food. It would do her well to heed his words, “Why would they eat only this? That would barely offer any sort of nutritional value.” She paused for a moment as she considered his words again. Perhaps there was something special about them that he was hinting towards.

He rolled his eyes in response and released an exasperated sigh from his lips, “As if you’re one to talk. Need I remind you how many times I was forced to bring you a meal of your own when time after time you refused to eat prior to delving into a task.”

“I just wanted to use that as an excuse to see you,” she responded cheekily.

“Of course, you did,” he answered, clearly unconvinced by her admission. He knew that clearly, especially when she ‘needed’ his assistance during said tasks. “Anyway, you are absolutely correct. Meol is crafted out of sin eater, those very same creatures you witnessed being flaunted around by Vauthry. If nothing else, they are filled with the very same light slowly consuming this star, but in a far lesser extent.”

Her eyes widened in horror, “That’s…this is madness!” Her words came out as a yell, capturing the attention of those in the area. The very thought of in-taking the essence of those beasts sickened her to the stomach.

Emet-Selch shook his head in annoyance, but he understood her position, “Settle down please. I’m already reconsidering if it is a wise idea to regale you with the last of it.”

Charis’ horror-stricken face settled as she tried to regain her bearings, I’m sorry. Please…continue.” A lump formed in the middle of her throat and despite her efforts to swallow it down, it simply refused to go away. She could feel her skin perspiring from her building anxiety for good reason. “I’m letting my emotions are getting the best of me.” She closed her eyes, releasing calming breaths once more. Hades, placed a comforting hand over her own, silently telling her it would be alright. He would be at her side. Meditating always eased her soul in high stress situations and she realized she would need to do this in the coming days far more often. It was something most individuals did not know about her. While she displayed boundless fear towards danger and excitement, there were times where she had clearly become overwhelmed by the daunting efforts. “There is a concern about this meol drawing heavily on my mind. Where exactly do they procure enough of these sin eaters to supply numerous individuals and their families? Furthermore, how are they able to be approached without killing those who went to hunt them?”

“For the latter half of your inquiry, they are not quite the same as those who cause the demise of our whole star,” Hades answered as he snapped the meol away from their view. “As for the former, sin eaters are the transformed state of man during the Flood of Light. All those caught in its wake were warped into the creatures as their aetheric balance was disrupted by being bathed in Her Light.”

“That’s…that’s…” Charis’ stomach felt queasy as he continued with his explanation. So the sin eaters were not exactly the same as the beasts that haunted her nightmares, but creations from the life prospering here.

Hades hated seeing her in anguish. It painted his heart just as much, but revealing the truth was the only way to release knowledge of the current era’s events, “In other cases, the stronger sin eaters are capable of transforming their unwitting targets into one of their own. The process is a nasty one really and I’d prefer not to ruin your appetite with the details, but yes, there are risks for foolishly approaching them, all except for Vauthry.”

“And that is something else which I gleaned, and the fact did not sit well with me,” she answered as the sweat continued to pour from her skin. “They are docile in his presence and likely able to be commanded upon at will. So, if those sin eaters used to be people and they…approach him….then…he can…” Her eyes lit up in horror as everything came fully circle in her mind. Charis’ fury proceeded to spike but as did her fear for the lives of the unwitting subjects. “He is disrupting their aether towards the light.”

“Exactly,” Hades confirmed with another nod. He was fortunate it was not required for him to spell it out for his other half. With her ancient memory restored to her, the same went for the intellect she kept hidden behind her behavior. The trail of crumbs he left for her to pick up was all that was needed to fit the pieces together.

“And with enough meol, it would either transform his people into those same monstrosities or his obedient-…,” she concluded with a slight paused. The verbiage to describe the Eulmoran’s situation was unknown to her.

“His slaves,” he finished for her, quickly noticing the pause. “Individuals with no sense of self or will of their own. I know how you may feel about this my dear, but remember this world is not the same as our star. I can elaborate further once we are away from prying ears. Even now, I feel as though I’ve spoken too-“

Before he could finish his statement, a Mystel waitress approached the table, her expression rather exuberant for one in an occupation for a citizen’s every need, “I apologize for the wait. What are you two dining on this morning?” She blew a strand of her red hair falling directly in her face to knock it out of her view and offered another smile.

I’m a…recent arrival, so if you do not mind, I will defer to your judgement,” Charis commented returning the gesture.

The statement caused the young, familiar-like woman’s black eyes to brighten as in excitement before quickly turning her attention to Hades, “And for you?”

“Surprise me,” he answered with a dismissive wave.

The Mystel raised her leg behind her and clasped her hands together before running off to put the orders in. The two grew silent at the attendant’s departure. Charis especially felt sick to her stomach for eating the food offered to her by the men who captured her. The sin eaters were monsters, yes, but they were living, breathing people prior to the transformations. Did that not matter to Vauthry? She examined the room carefully-everyone fraternized without a care in the world.

“Do not worry, as you have only eaten one, the effects to you are nonexistent,” he admitted as he gripped tightly around her hand. “’Twould require years of consumption for you to fall in the same predicament as the locals. I know you wish to assist, but this place is not ours. They are satisfied with things as they are.”

She flipped her hand over to weave their grasps into one another and locked her fingers into place, “I understand their horrors are of a different magnitude than ours, but they are ignorant of our tragedies. Countless lives were lost because we summoned them when that sound first began. We had a desire to live and did everything in our power to avert the calamity.” A sigh escaped her lips, “Very…very well then.”

When she grew silent again, so did Hades, but he continued to observe her. Her expression continued as it was conflicted…confused, but it was necessary. The last thing he needed was her hobby of her interfering with his goals presenting itself. It was imperative for her to see that these people were happy with their final days, or his painstakingly hard work would be in tatters. After all, everything he had done was for her benefit, in addition to those from their original home, “I know how you feel my love, but do not press the issue.”

Her ears flattened wilted in response to his brutal viewpoint of the situation, “Since we are unable to do anything about this light, then can you inform me…what have you been doing this entire time? What have you gone through? Better yet, tell me, just how long as passed since it all began?”

“Do you truly wish to know the answer to such question?” he countered, staring back at her firmly. “I wish not to burden you with far more details than necessary in a short period of time. You require rest before delving headfirst into the issues.”

“Tell me Hades,” she stated, her eyes firm with resolve. “I am not a babe to be coddled, because you think I am unable to handle it. You’re wrong.”

The Ascian inwardly groaned. So stubborn. “I will answer your question if you so desire, if you can tell me what the last thing it you is remember then I can give you an accurate answer.”

A smirk appeared on her lips. Finally, she was getting through to this grumpy soulmate of hers. She closed her eyes as she pondered his inquiry and permitted her mind to sift between the memories from the days of eld. She no longer found herself being bombarded by those other memories implanted into her. She could now discern only those from her current life. The former ancient allowed her mind to drift off, searching for anything of value to relay to him.

She soon found herself surrounded by burning buildings once again. The creatures only found in her nightmares were gone, but the destruction left by them remained, leaving only corpses along the pavement. Her ruby eyes drifted to the creation at the center of the capital city, everything else dwarfing in comparison to his size. She watched as the souls drifted towards it, granting further power so his purpose may begin. His creation would eliminate the beasts who destroyed their beautiful star. From her understanding, the succeeding aspiration would grant the dying star new life by restoring the aether, but that was the extent of her knowledge. Nothing else mattered because she could not bear to witness the sacrifices to follow.

“There must be some other way,” she mumbled to herself as she climbed onto the borrowed stead. The four-legged creature bearing armored plating belonged to none other than Emet-Selch. Despite that disagreement, which turned to little else than a shouting match, he allowed a final gift on his behalf since her familiars were different to say the least. She looked over the beasts as they disappeared from view before motioning for the steed to move onwards out of the borders of the city to discover a better means to solve their plight. “I promise, nothing will deter me from my goal. No matter how long it may take so long as it ends up not being too late.”

Her eyes opened as she finished offering her memories to Hades, “That is where it ends. Other parts of her tales are limited at best, foggy images, and the like what have you. ‘Tis a reminder of sorts that I feel as though my life may have been taken for granted.”

“Don’t we all,” Hades admitted wistfully. “So now that we know that is where it stops, it is suffice it to say your soul has been asleep for at least twelve thousand years.”

Charis eyes widened in shock and felt as though an arrow had struck through her chest. Her eyes became unfocused as her breathing became heavy and ragged. How could that be? She unconsciously gripped his hand, nearly squeezing the very life out of it. How could that be? It was easier to believe their world crumbled over a century ago, and that mankind simply flourished once more after the destruction borne to the star. And she knew he was not lying. He would never lie to her or anyone else, although he held the tightest lips one could ever find whenever the time called for it, “No…no…no…that cannot be.”

The world around her started spinning. She began hyperventilating as she finally released his hands and moved her hands to the sides of her head in anxiety. Charis did not want to believe it. How could her soul be asleep for that long. For what reason did it hold to remain in a stasis for such an extended period? “No….no…no…you’re wrong Hades…Several millennia I’ve been….” Her mind simply refused to believe the reality of her plight. The walls of the room seemed to close in on her. The whispers of the denizens grew louder and louder as though they were only feet away. The very reality around her seemed to shatter as she found herself back in the destroyed city, where the creatures awaited her.

“This is why I did not want to say anything,” he thought sourly to himself. Quickly, to calm her down, he moved to her side and pulled her into a hug she was clearly unaware of. The man’s voice was soft as he whispered into her ear, “Please, my dear Charis, it is alright. I understand your fear and your doubts, but have I ever lied to you before?”

Charis looked up into his eyes, feeling a bit of her anxiety fading away, “No, you have not, but several millennia Hades?”

Tears began streaking her cheeks as everything she buried these past few days; centuries all came barreling forth. Their whole life eliminated, never to return as it was—the truth plummeting on her full force.  The past shattered again, bring back the sanctuary's inner parlor. “I’m…I’m sorry. This is…this is far too much to take in. I…I should’ve listened to you.”

Hades could only nod as he snapped his fingers, causing a small tissue to appear in her lap. She quickly reached for the dispensable clothe and began to wipe away the tears, as he returned to his seat without a word, “A natural reaction, but yes, you should have, but your stubbornness knows no bounds. If you’d like, we may return to our chambers so you may have the opportunity to process this in silence.”

The Traveler finished wiping her tears away and moved her hands to her lap, “No, the gesture is fine, but, I shall manage. I can’t fall apart now. ‘Tis an unfortunate truth I must bear. When we return tonight then I will take the opportunity to reflect and consider how I shall move forward.”

Soon enough, the waitress returned with two plates of food in hand, setting one down in front of each of them, “Here you are: two Eulmore Breakfast Specials.” Without a word, she departed to attend to the other patrons as they excitedly gathered at the tables.

Charis eyes were half-lidded, finding she no longer carried an appetite after the revelation. However, a small grumble from her stomach quickly reminded the woman she would need to put something in her system to continue functioning without weakness. And so, she grabbed her fork and began slowly eating away at the fully dressed plate before lined with meats, fluffy bread, and grainy sides.”

Meanwhile, Hades observed in silence. In all honesty, he did not require food as often as his wife, but as he inhabited the skin of some poor man after his demise to sin eaters, his need was slightly adjusted to provide the vessel every so often with a meal. Besides, he enjoyed these quiet moments and quality time with his Charis, especially now as she was wholly returned to him. “How long have I awaited your true return. Our times together as you lived as Nala did prove to be a distraction and a reminder you yet lived. Only seven times rejoined, she carried the greatest of your traits rather than all your other reincarnations.” A small sigh escaped his lips, “Had you only listened back then, we would not be in this mess.”

The two continued to sit in silence as they ate away at their food until plates were empty. Charis’ distress over the situation had roused her to ignore her health, but it was entirely understandable. Then again, it would not benefit her at all had she withered away for something stupid again.

“It appears you’ve thoroughly enjoyed yourself,” Emet-Selch commented, somewhat amused. “Now, are you ready to travel elsewhere?”

Charis nodded in agreement to her husband, “I am….and actually, I wish to explore the outside of the city to obtain a better view of what I’ll be ‘protecting.”

“Your need to explore is rampant as ever, but you will find no justice in explorations ‘neath the insufferable light,” he responded in disdain. “There shall be naught to gain from the experience.”

“Great,” she responded, completely ignoring his statement. She pushed herself away from the table and proceeded towards the staircase that would lead her to the lower part of the city.

Hades continued to shake his head in response as he followed behind his beloved.

Chapter Text

Charis and Hades stood at the gates leading into Eulmore at the top of the stairs. During their jaunt from the so-called paradise, the awakened ancient used every opportunity to investigate the surroundings, much to his annoyance. As he changed at this point, due to his temperament to Zodiark, he found less reason to complain as he did in the days of eld. However, it did not stop him from remarking of the differences at every given chance regarding the city’s inferiority in contrast to their home, but Charis would not have none of it. His words only went through one ear and out of the other. This only seemed to make his frustrations prevalent, but at the end of it, Hades was happy. He was content to have his wife and soulmate back at his side, continuing in the usual games of cat and mouse, if only to see the woman remind him to pay attention to his health.

Unfortunately, he was merely annoyed due to the fact Charis wanted to adventure a bit out of the sanctuary into the blaring light that considerably weakened him. Hydaelyn’s sway was far too great, something he insured over this past century, since the initial attempt to rejoin this world went awry for the interference of Charis’ present self. If something disastrous were to truly occur, then he would be useless and his beloved in grave danger just as well. That is why he hoped that grandson of his continued charting the Source towards the calamity so he could finally be rid of this broken shard.

A soft sniffle captured his attention, diverting his gaze to the Viera in worry. Her gaze was looking towards the Derelicts, her arms trembling as she clenched her hands into tight fists, “What’s the matter now?” He moved in front of the Viera, pushing her bangs from the front of her face and cupped her cheeks gingerly as he carefully wiped a streaking tear from her face.

“’Tis saddening to see these people below live in a location full of squalor, while the others above live in luxury,” Charis spoke sadly. All it took was one simple scan of the surrounding area to understand the situation. Worn down shacks, denizens dressed in shoddy clothing, and using only fires to cook their food. No one should have to live like this. “How can they treat their fellow man in such a fashion? What happened to the equality we once shared? Is that far too much?”

Another sigh escaped his lips. He knew this would happen. The woman was just as sentimental, when not incorrigible, among her other eccentricities, “This is exactly the reason I did not wish for you to venture outside of those walls.”

“I can imagine why, but I still wish to investigate further,” she responded, offering a soft smile. “I truly want to further understand this star.”

Emet-Selch resisted the urge to roll his eyes at her inane request, but at the same time, she had the right to do so. Waking up in a strange, unfamiliar world, with outdated knowledge was taxing to say the least. Added, had she found herself bored within the chambers and felt the need to explore, she would do it anyway, “If you must, but if you find it all too much to bear, all you need is say the word and I shall return us to your domicile for the evening.”

Her head tilted in confusion, “How will you be able to tell if the day has passed as the sky is shrouded in near endless light? Were it not for you, I would have found an issue discerning when the hour to retire drew upon us on yesterday.”

“A matter you shall grow accustomed to in time my love,” he responded sadly. “But, should things go according to plan, your stay here shall be a short one.”

“What do you-?” she proceeded to ask, only for him to interrupt.

He shook his head, “Do not worry yourself over that. All will be answered soon enough my dear.”

Charis nodded, “When did he less…complaintive and more nurturing? ‘Tis not an unwelcomed sight, but even I find this dramatic change startling.” Charis remembered, whenever they were deep into the night’s hour, he would show this side of himself. All other occasions, when they were in public, he would only do what was necessary to calm her. She leaned fully into his gentle touch as she decided to take his word for it and placed her faith into him. “Thank you, Hades. I shall take you up on your offer should the time occur.”

She gripped his hand tightly and moved it from her face, and slowly pulled him down the stairs where Charis began her observations. The bird’s eye view she received at the top was nothing compared to a close examination. The homes, if they could even be labeled as such, were built from broken planks of wood that had obviously seen better days with torn pieces of fabric to cover the makeshift windows. She eased closer to the first building to her right and reached out towards it, only to immediately draw it back from the pain of something sharp hitting against her skin. She eased closer as her eyes focused on the dull object sticking out from the middle – a nail and one of many at that. When she looked all around the side of the wall, there were many pointing outwards or dented inwards to keep the planks of wood together. It was plain clear the people who created this home had little clue in what they were doing. With even closer inspection, there were holes in the wood, never fully connecting with one another, permitting her the opportunity to have a glance into the home just a bit.

“Ouch!” Charis yelled in alarm. Her eyes went to her legs, finding several insects biting away at her skin. She swatted them away as fast as she could, but not quickly enough as she felt two more awful pricks in the last instant seconds before they were sent flying. A small groan escaped her lips. She hated insects. They only seemed to get in the way and solely existed to be annoying to say the least. She always wondered who in their right mind would create such a concept.

They continued in their search through the handmade town. Hades found himself growing slightly annoyed by the4 fact his clothes were growing filthy with every second as she barely provided them the privilege to walk along the pavement. Although, he could easily have this issue fixed with a snap of his fingers. However, it would prove to show little effectiveness as he knew not how long his beloved wished to remain among the common folk.

Charis continued ahead; eyes filled with sadness as they neared the waters. Despite her focus, she was aware of all the eyes directed at her. These were likely the same people who witnessed her startling arrival a few short days ago. She turned her ruby gaze to the left and saw a Mystel woman pulling her daughter closer to her-both fully dressed in the worst rags imaginable. To the right, a man held a glass bottle, gripping it tightly, his eyes full of jealous mixed in with some sort of fear, “I know my arrival was far less conventional, but must they stare? I did not harm them either directly or indirectly either.”

Hades shook his head and shrugged his shoulders, “Mankind is different. How many times must I reiterate this same statement? They fear the unknown. To them, you are simply a mad woman who dropped out of the sky through an unknown teleportation or summons of sorts.”

Charis paused for a moment and stared at Hades in disbelief, “So, is that how I arrived here? In Eulmore? Through what methods?”

“For once, that is an answer I cannot give a precise answer for,” Hades answered honestly. “’Tis an issue I’d wish to discover just as well. Perhaps, the life stream no longer wished for your soul to remain along it’s currents and found a suitable host to permit your return to life and be at my side once more or perhaps something else entirely.”

Charis tilted her head to the side in confusion, staring at him like a youth who could not comprehend a simple concept, “The Life Stream…?”

The thought occurred to him shortly after and smiled in response, “I apologize-The Life Stream is simple the current era’s term for the Underworld. One much more acknowledgeable to mankind where they can truly take comfort in knowing, one day, their soul may be reborn after death.”

“Interesting,” she mumbled as she listened to his explanation. “I suppose I do prefer this new name, but why would its name be changed? Was it simply lost to the ages?”

“Yes,” he answered with a slow, heavy nod. He loved reminiscing of the past, as he and his colleagues strove to regain what they lost to Her machinations, but it saddened him immensely. Friends, families, loved ones all sundered into broken creatures of this star—never to remember the true beauty they created together, only vague recollections.

Charis noticed the man’s focused, yet distant gaze in his eyes. She could easily see how it truly pained him to speak of the differences between the two times. If only she had not left; if only she had been far less stubborn and strove to view things from his perspective, then he would not have been in so much pain alone. The thought weighed heavily on her mind multiple times in the past two days, but it would do her no justice to keep dwelling on it constantly. She had now been presented the opportunity to live a new life, faithfully at his side. The Viera grabbed him by the arm once more and pulled him to where soil met land, giving the two a frontal view of the ocean and the small islands in the distance with a few shipwrecked vessels crashed into the landscape. “This world is sad in its own right, is it not? I do not mind the racial differences so much as you, but the lifestyles, concern me so. What is wrong with finding comradery with one another in these trying times? Why should it matter one person has attained greater…riches than the person next to him? If they are in the same situation, none of it should matter. They should uplift each other and offer aid to make their passing a little less tragic.”

The architect sighed inwardly. She was growing far too attached. He needed to sway her without incurring her wrath. He loved her dearly and despite her forward demeanor, her anger truly made her a force to be reckoned with, “Do not bother yourself with this discovery. If it were possible, do you not think they would’ve implemented such a mindset at this point? This world is dying, heading towards stasis where it rightfully belongs.”

“Why would you say that?” she questioned in disbelief. “I may have abandoned my post with the convocation, but my heart has ever been towards the people. I simply cannot abandon them.”

His usual frustrated expression returned, and his eyes hardened greatly, “Yes, you can. These broken creatures are just that, broken. They are not deserving of your kindness or aid. This star is a mockery of what we used to know, and you will come to know that as well once you’ve peered further into the land.”

“But…why is that so?” Charis asked, moving in closer. She stared him deep in his eyes with her unyielding stare. “Why do you see it as a mockery? Tell me Hades.”

The Ascian wrapped his arms around her body and brought his hand to the top of her head, stroking it carefully, “Why must you be this way my love? I can tell you in a moment, only if you promise to withhold your reaction as we are out in public. The last thing we need is to have you thrown into one of those cells once more. Will that suffice for you?”

Charis gripped him tightly as her gaze softened and moved her head in, “I shall try, but you know…I’m not one to turn a blind eye when danger is present, but…”

“But?” he repeated with a raised eyebrow.

She leaned her head into his chest, “You are correct from before. I am rushing things a fair bit. I shall attempt to take things a little slowly, but this bit of information, I feel I need to know so I know what to do. Please do not be cross with me for being a tad bit overly ambitious.”

“Only if you choose not to learn from your mistakes,” he replied jokingly. He released her from his grasp and watched as she offered him another smile. He moved his hand and interlocked it with hers before pulling the woman away and they ventured onwards into the other sides of the Derelicts. Again, the two were being watched by the denizens. Hades suppressed the urge to snap them to some misbegotten location, out of his view. He wanted to speak to her of their private matter regarding her disappearance and the reasoning behind the star’s circumstances, but with the constant denizens surrounding them would make it fruitless. At least he could continue to use this opportunity to make her see just how foolish it would be to set her sights on saving it.

Hades grumbled to himself as others attempted to approach them with desperately pleading eyes; hoping he would grant them a mercy or he found it in his heart to make them one of his bonded, “How preposterous. They simply want something handed into them without putting forth the effort. Vauthry have these people eating right out the palm of his hands.”

The two soon arrived in a clearing on the opposite side of the dilapidated post. Not only did they find more houses, but also an increasingly alarming number of wrecked ships as well. Most were half sunken underwater broken in half with either the front or the back pointing upwards. As evidenced from the pieces of stripped wood, most of the exteriors had been stripped for the makeshift homes.

Charis observed as she paused in silence. The sadness illuminated in her eyes, but she would not permit the scenery to dampen her mood. She could not shield her attention from the truth and forwarded it to the downtrodden houses “These homes, for lack of a better term, were built from the scrapes of these sea-faring vessels. However, why are there so many?”

“A result of the Flood,” he answered plainly, relieved to see she was finally moving on. “These ships were likely in route to their destination, but within its wake, their vision was likely skewed and caused them to steer right into the land. In other scenarios, they were simply attacked by the newborn sin eaters from the other regions caught in its grasp.”

So with little else to go, they needed to make some sort of shelter if they had not been permitted entry into Eulmore,” she finished as the information processed in her mind. “However, I feel the requirements were far less strict prior to Lord Vauthry’s rise to power. Am I wrong?”

“Of course not,” Hades answered. “The world was prosperous, but when the balance tipped in the favor of light, everything changed. Those who yet survived cared only but for themselves and any remaining family of course and all others mattered not.”

‘Tis a sad tale,” she stated as she gazed out into the distance yet again. “However, what exactly caused this flood to happen?”

Finally, she asked the right question. If she fell into her old habits, then the like could very well happen again. The balance between light and dark, Hydaelyn and Zodiark, was a very delicate one as the former was meant to keep the latter in check by keeping Him imprisoned. Far too much in favor of one would cause the scales to tip and one would claim victory. “Adventurers doing their due diligence or so they thought.”

Charis paused briefly and gave him a strange look, “Adventurers?”

“Individuals similar to you my love, but at a diminished scale,” he answered. “They’re unable to stay in one location for an extended period and often found themselves completing tasks for the common folk until they found themselves amid a greater conspiracy and so they fought. They vanquished every single threat which approached them or threatened the peace until there were no such threats remaining. With the strike to the final enemy Her light won in favor and the Flood of Light began.”

More questions proceeded to form in her mind. His explanations were growing increasingly confusing by the second, but the spark of life seemed to light up in his eyes, like he was happy to explain to her the details with a well-hidden anger. “Her Light. Who do you mean by that?”

The architect released a dry chuckle from his lips. He truly believed her mind unprepared for the details, but she was not a babe to be coddled. It was best he informed her now that she was seeking out her answers through him before she trekked down the path as Hydaelyn’s obedient servant yet again, “It relates to your extended absence After your resignation from your seat, a dear friend and mentor you are acquainted with found reason to oppose our order—feeling our methods far too extreme to be continued and if rumor is correct, she even requested you to join at her side.”

Her eyes widened in disbelief at his recollections, “No…I would never…she would not…”

“As expected, you denied her request as she wished to summon a deity of equal strength to Zodiark,” Hades continued, slowly grabbing her by the shoulders, staring her deep in her eyes.

The Viera’s eyes remained full of shock; nearly unable to comprehend her husband’s words despite knowing he was speaking the truth, “Venat…what?”

“Of course, you cannot be expected to remember any of this; She insured of that specifically,” he nearly growled out. “The result of Her actions, by ascending to such deity and starting battle with Zodiark led our world and the very souls within it, to be sundered across ten and three reflections. Our world is the Source, where your soul remained until you were abruptly summoned to Eulmore, in the First shard. Essentially, everyone we knew and loved were killed.”

The world around her started to spin for what seemed to be the third time in two days alone. Why would her teacher essentially become the very same thing she did not want to exist? Why did she subject those she cared about to millennia of pain? Was Zodiark so…uncontrollable that he could not be fully defeat? “How…how were you able to escape...? What was her reasoning?”

“As Hydaelyn, Her power dwarfed in comparison to Him due to the limited amount of like-minded scholars she convinced to aid in her cause,” he answered as his voice turned gravely. He released his other half and turned away to hide the eons of anguish lurking in his heart. “Her blow to Zodiark left a small enough crack to permit my escape along with Lahabrea and Elidibus. Her reasoning-she felt too many lives were being sacrificed for our cause. When broken down into categories, his first task involved creating a barrier to replenish Etheirys aether – sacrificing half of our remaining population. His second, after we sacrificed that half which yet lived restored our home’s habitability. New life was borne with it, but those things were not the same. They were diverse, with no memory of recent events or the lives before, so as His one final task we were to ask him to resurrect our initial population, but that is where it ended. “

“Stop,” she whispered quietly, no longer able to handle his tale. Her teary eyes were transfixed upon the soil as her mind forcefully endeavored to process his tale. While both scales were horrendous in the number of lives taken in the restoration of the star, at least her colleagues held a plan to revive those martyred for Zodiark’s ability to complete his intended objectives. Venat…Hydaelyn essentially killed everyone; the self-same person who’d loved, cared, and cherished everyone and everything in their quaint, yet massive star. It defied all reason. Could she find no other method to keep their world spared from centuries…from millennia of strife? Was she unable to even spare more than the three other members of the Convocation, or find some other method to find a solution?

“This is the prime reason as to why I wished to deter your persistence in these topics,” Hades commented. “Your relationship with your predecessor was enviable and I knew learning of her part in our home’s demise would shatter you into pieces.”

The amnesiac nodded slowly in agreement, “It is puzzling and if I had a means of questioning her methods, I would. Truthfully, I am angry. I wish I could turn back time to prevent her from making a tragic decision or had been given the opportunity to have returned sooner to the mortal realm. “

“She yet lives, so I am inclined to believe you will be able to speak to her when the time presents itself or She finds it to her benefit,” the Ascian informed carefully. “However, it will be at Her convenience as we are unable to contact her through any known means and given by standing, she has ensured those few of us who are aware of her true presence have been denied any method of reaching her sanctuary within the star.”

“That sounds like something Venat would do, deity or not,” she commented wistfully. “No matter, I will find a way to reach her one way or the other and I’ll make sure she cannot ignore me. I want answers from her perspective if my anger does not get the better of me.”

A soft chuckle erupted from the Ascian, “I for one, shall enjoy seeing it take fold.” Emet-Selch quickly observed the area at the sound of footsteps hitting against the soil. Others were beginning to awaken from their slumber or making their rounds through the deplorable area, queuing him that it was time to depart. “Now is there anything else you wish to do Charis?”

A bright smile returned to her lips at his question and directed her attention in the direction of the gates, “I wish to she what remains further beyond the gates.”

“Of course, you do,” Emet-Selch groaned in exasperation. “My love, you will only be wrought with destruction and despair. In addition, we may just very well find ourselves surrounded by ravenous sin eaters.”

“Are you saying I’m incapable of defending myself in this new era?” Charis questioned in the same manner as her spouse often did.

“Of course not,” he countered in slight annoyance. “I am insinuating the fact I do not want to lose you to the beasts. Due to Light’s supremacy, I am unable to use my aether to my fullest as my servitude to Zodiark has shifted my alignment towards-“

“Darkness,” Charis finished with an unsurprised statement. “The two are opposing elements and it stands reason if Venat became a being of light, and it causes even you discomfort, then darkness would be his dominating element.”

Hades is fortunate he did not have to explain anything further to her and the smile returned, “I suppose if a few were to be attracted by my aether then I can provide a modicum of assistance.”

A thought occurred to the former ancient, nearly dampening her spirits once more, “In the event of it happening, I am remotely unable to do anything myself. They confiscated my rapier in fear of me escaping.”

“You have forgotten who you are speaking with,” he commented smugly. With a snap of his fingers, a glowing, golden rapier appeared in her hands and her eyes widened in glee. “This is…” Her voice was light as she examined the intricately placed swirls and her name sketched out on the blade itself. He had gifted it to her upon her ascension to the convocation.

Thank you Hades!” she happily replied. Charis pointed it away and placed the weapon on her waist along with the crystal before pulling him into a final hug.

“Anything for you my love,” he whispered. The man used the chance to place a firm kiss against her lips, pulling her in closer. The people were for the most part, in their homes, and not a single soul around to watch them as he possessively held onto his spouse and Charis did not deny it in the least, although she was surprised by the brazen action. The sight of two long lost lovers was certainly a sight to behold. The feelings that were lost to time only seemed to intensify as they spent an increasingly amount of time with each other and her memories gradually were brought back to life.

Charis pulled away from the man, breathlessly as she called for air to be restored to her, but it did not stop the loving gaze from settling in and a coy smile from appearing on her lips, “The millennia have certainly made you greedy. Had we attempted this long before in a public setting, you would chide me for my actions. Then again…” She teasingly traced a single finger along the side of his face as a devious glint twinkled in her eyes, “It was a rule that we share certain affections and intimacies only within our households. However, I would not mind sharing the long overdue moments with you afterwards.”

“We are no longer bound by those traditions and rules,” the Ascian commented as he shuddered at the enticing touch. “And our years apart has only made me yearn for your presence by my side, but, you will find your claims of time changing me are not quite so accurate. Admittedly, in your absence, I have found small pleasures to brighten my outlook.”

“For that I am glad,” she stated as a small hum escaped her lips. “After all, I had often wondered how many more wrinkles you would create with your habits.” She looked away into the distance with that gaze of wonderment. So much lied in the great unknown, places she had not yet visited as she was not a native, people to assist, and other new tastes to explode in her mouth, not to mention the unbearable yearning to see her friends and comrades held strong in her heart. “Let’s go Hades, just for a little while. Nowhere too far, I promise. If I decide there is little to gain upon the experience, then we may simply train. I feel as though my skills have diminished in my extended absence.” Her devious grin grew bigger as she moved to his side, poking at his sleeves, “It appears you certainly have as well. Look at these arms.”

“Will you stop that!” he growled in annoyance. “Unless the time called for brute force, then I had no reason to pull out my blade. The life here can hardly stand up to a bit of aether with my capabilities.”

“And openly bold,” Charis remarked with a light chuckle.

Hades sighed to himself yet again, “Let us depart before I have reason to deny your request.” At this point, he knew convincing her otherwise would involve wasted breath on his part. The woman was incorrigible and never wanted to oblige by the rules of others after a certain extent. This training would come in handy as she is to meet with Eulmore’s general in the morrow, but even he remained surprised by her intrigue. It was exactly due to her foolish behavior that she was unable to remain in a strict setting, but this would be a good distraction for now. She would be anchored to one place until he discovered the answer to this puzzling mystery and send her back to the Source. So, while she was busy, he can complete his investigation. However, if he came to find out she had been summoned to aide in this world’s plight, he needed to keep her out of the force’s reach.

He shrugged his shoulders and pulled her in closely, “Very well then. I shall bring us to a location where you’ll be free to do as you please, but be mindful of your surroundings. These sin eaters are far too dangerous to be trifled with recklessly. Remain on your guard.”

“Of course,” she nodded in agreement.

“Now hold on tight my love,” he ordered gently. A hum sounded off behind him and a portal of darkness appeared. In one fell swoop, he slightly bent down and picked the woman up bridal style and stepped through the portal. They arrived in a new realm, covered by complete and utter darkness.

Charis clutched her arms around him as tightly as she could to ensure her safety, but the warmth provided her a sense of safety, “Where are we Hades?”

“A realm betwixt the worlds which is accessible to those only to Zodiark,” he answered as he looked ahead. He enjoyed that she was intrigued by his loyalties. “If I am to replenish my strength or effortlessly traverse this ill-begotten land, or convene with our remaining associate, without interruption, all such transpires here. Does it fascinate you?”

She nodded gentled as she leaned her head into his chest, “Yes, it does. It’s far less restrictive than the Light oddly enough. I felt…sick when I was exposed to it myself, so I can only imagine how it must make you feel. I suppose it does not matter as much in your case when you’re able to escape it anytime you wish.”

“That may be true, but that does not mean the effects do not linger upon my departure,” he commented. “Do not think for a moment the offer does not extend to you either. Should you ever find the need to escape from the frustrations of your duties or remove yourself from its suffocating grasp, all you need is ask and I shall happily oblige.”

The man paused and summoned another portal, revealing the outside world. When they stepped through, the two were now in the outskirts of Eulmore, far beyond the reaches of the city. Charis observed carefully. There was little to be found as it was a near barren landscaped with practically no fauna around them as well as a variety of concepts she had not seen before.

“And we have arrived Charis,” he announced, propping her to her feet.

She released her death-defying hold from around his neck and walked away, “So, is this the life beyond the sanctuary’s borders? I am not surprised by the scarcity of concepts native to the region given the circumstances, but even this is worrisome. I’ve seen deserts with more life than this. Do they not care for their habitats? Then again, I doubt any would venture into environments scattered with unknown creatures.” She paused for a moment before speaking again, “Maybe you are right for once.

“Well, of course I am, you hardly choose to listen which is why I have been forced to assist you in situations you had no entitlement in assisting with,” he responded in a slightly joking manner.

“I suppose,” she responded, tilting her head like a curious child. “Where are the settlements?”

“Scarcely any in this region,” he answered plainly. “The few which remain are good as dead as the citizen are incapable of defending themselves from the aggressive concepts.”

Charis paused for a moment as she considered his words. This was rather troublesome, but were they content with things as they were? She’d want to help them or at least teach them methods of defending themselves but if they also dealt with the sin eaters too, then she’d send them to a fate worse than death, would she not? The very thought of it weighed heavily upon her heart. “Since there is nothing to do as of the moment, let’s use this opportunity to train, then we may begin our excursion onwards.”

“Should it not be the other way around?” Hades questioned with a raised eyebrow. He shook his head, “Never mind. This should at least prove fruitful for you in your little endeavor. As to which, while you are distracting the Eulmoran general, I shall conduct my investigation. I shall discover the means in which you were forcibly taken from my watchful gaze.”

“Thank you,” she smiled warmly. “I know you will not disappoint.”

A sad smile donned his features. He had disappointed her for far too long, but he vowed to never be the source of her anger anymore. He raised his arm into the air and channeled his aether. His reserves were vast and being granted the power of Him in addition, made all others beneath him. Even if Hydaelyn’s vaunted champion was to battle him, she would not win—especially so with the people she labeled as comrades. He opened his eyes briefly and stared into her eyes—finding no trace of that devoted woman left within her towards the proclaimed goddess. If he kept her close and diverted her from any means of being reclaimed, they would not be forced into a bout of fisticuffs. One final snap of his fingers, a long sword instantly appeared within his grasp.

Charis’ eyes lit up at the red tinted blade, a luminescent glow emitting from the weapon, “Per chance is that the very same one or a recreation. To think even you had it all this time as well. I’m…amazed. You should’ve been angry with me, but all this time…You’re as sentimental as I am.”

She was right, though he would never openly admit it. He grasped the blade tightly as he gave it one final glance over, “They were the two possessions left on my person to remember you by, with one final object which I will share with you when time.”

“I cannot wait to see what it is,” she commented with the child-like excitement she was known to present. Her devious smirk returned as she began to step away from her husband and removed her rapier and crystal from the holster, each wielded in a different hand. “Let us hope it is something that will assist you in this session as it clearly shows you have grown far too adjusted with using only your magicks. Perhaps I will not be the only one who needs a moment to be acclimated with physical combat.

The competitive and ambitious spark had returned to life, a trait he often enjoyed witnessing from her, “We shall see my love.”

Without another word, Charis raised her arms, clasping her hands together as she channeled the aether within her body as flawlessly as she could. A crackle of blue erupted in her crystal, but it required a certain amount of concentration until she released it—sending a line of thunder towards the Ascian. He moved his blade, blocking it with ease, only for a gust of wind to follow behind, knocking him a bit off balance. A small chuckle escaped his lips as he met her eyes with a cocky glint. She would need to try harder.

She dashed forward with his body locked in, landing just before him. She set her sights on his abdomen as it appeared to be the least protected, along with everything else. With a small grunt, she thrusted her rapier forward only for Hades to quickly move his long sword in front of his body to block the attack again, using his free hand to stead the blade. Charis jumped back, but Hades used the opportunity to strike. He barely provided her any opportunity to cast as he mirrored her prior action and knocked the woman well off her feet with a swing of the over-sized blade and into the ground.

Charis laughed in sheer amusement at the sudden counterattack as she jumped back to her feet, “I take that back, but I thought you would at least go a little easier on me.”

“Did your previous mentor ever share that sentiment?” Hades countered with a smug grin. He knew from experience how ruthless the elder Azem was in battle.

Charis dusted her clothes from the debris. She should have known better than that while dealing with Hades. He was a man of principle and would do everything in his power to ensure someone received the full benefits of his services. In hindsight, she should have requested him to provide her with a simpler attire for her use. She did not want to ruin the clothes provided to her but Hades could fix that if she begged him enough. “”I suppose you’re right. You were never the type to hold back either both with your tongue and your blade. Of all the moments I needed your assistance. Let’s say I pitied the poor creature that met your end of the sword.”

The Warrior of Light dashed in once again, but as she let the steel meet steel, she channeled her aether through the rapier. Her arm thrusted upward, just enough to move the blade out of her way, unbalancing Hades, another towards his chest in the form of an X. Her breathing became shallow and labored as she expended more energy than expected a close combat blow in a zig zag before kicking her feet against his chest, flipping backwards to a safe distance. The Viera landed shakily, but she did not let it deter her. This was a new body with less aether. She was quickly learning she could not use it recklessly lest she had some sort of death wish.

Observing her quickly deteriorating state, he removed his hand slightly raised it upwards, causing a circle of black and red to surround her in the shape of a dome. She immediately felt the effected intended as it burned away at her skin.

The Ascian lunged forward once more stopping himself at the edge of the bubble and jumped upwards into the air. He swung the blade down, staring right into her eyes, seeing the fierce determination within them within seconds before she jumped to the side and provided the distance between the two and relief to Charis’ skin from the constant tingling. Hades smirked to himself. Despite her disadvantage, she was keeping up rather well, but he was starting to feel the sweltering pressure the Light was leaving upon him.

“I believe that is enough for now Charis for both of our sakes,” Hades stated, dodging to the right as a ball of fire appeared over him, practically blinding him, “Gah!”

The Traveler immediately brought her hands to her mouth before returning her weapon to her sides. She immediately ran to his side in fear for his health, rapidly checking his body parts for no permanent damage, “I’m so sorry Hades. I had already begun weaving my spell and it was far too late to halt its process.”

He rubbed his eyes as he released one of his usual sighs, “’Tis nothing to concern yourself over. Remember, I have endured much at your hands several times over. Once I return to the shadows and acquire my rest, my energies shall be replenished.” The architect looked up to his sundered wife, offering a sincere smile to her, “Perhaps I did neglect my combative skills in your absence, but given time, they will be restored.”

A soft chuckle escaped Charis as she brushed a single strand of the misplaced white from his face, “Yes, I suppose both of us have something to work towards. I nearly used all of my aether with my casts.” Her eyes fell and a frown formed, “I understood being in this new vessel would be different, but I did not expect it to be so exhausting.”

“Worry not my love, I know you shall prevail in time,” he answered gently. “But I am by no means eager to see you jumping into any more volcanoes or overcompensating for trivialities unworthy of your time.”

As his spouse prepared to make a witty retort, the woman’s expression suddenly died and ears proceeded to twitch at the sound of something approaching. Her eyes darted over to the west. The footsteps were loud, heavy, yet fast despite the distance, enough to put the woman on edge, “Do…do you hear that?”

“Damn,” Hades cursed to himself. He did not need to hear it; he saw the abundance of light approaching them. Before he had the chance to pull her in, the angelic yet grotesque beast was in sight. As he suspected, it was one of the nastier sort capable of transforming individuals.

Charis eyes widened in horror as she clutched onto Hades for dear life as visions from years past sprang to life.

“Azem, please assist us!”

“No! Our magick has borne life to these monstrosities!”

“There’s no end to them!”

“Ahhhhh!!”

“Charis! Pull yourself together!” Hades warned, only for his words to go in one ear and out of the other. The woman’s eyes remained locked onto the creature; completely lost to her memories. He groaned annoyed, but he could not fault her for this. Her memories were “fresh” and her feelings still at an all-time high though she may not have been fully aware of it. With Charis deep in her own mind, she failed to notice the man pick her up in the same fashion as before and a black swirling portal enveloped their bodies into the darkness.

“Please…no…not again,” she muttered over and over again.

The trip through the darkness was a relatively swift one and they arrived in Nala’s room once more. Hades could only sigh in defeat as he placed her on the bed gently. He moved his hand over her head and casted his aether over her. He watched as her eyes fluttered slowly, almost as though she was resisting the aether-induced sleep, but she ultimately gave in and fell into a deep slumber. He knew it was a horrible idea to bring her out there as she was, but if he left her alone for a single moment and she ventured into the depths of Kholusia alone, then she would be in a far worse position. While grateful for having his partner returned to him, he promised to find the idiot responsible for bringing her to a dangerous world in this condition.

Chapter Text

Hades teleported into the room of darkness, specifically for those bound to Zodiark’s will. After the events on the surface world, in the pitiful excuse of the shard, he wanted nothing more than to rest and replenish his energies, and so he closed his eyes and allowed his body to float. To see the woman he loved in so much pain broke his heart into pieces. He desired to pull her into his arms and tell her that everything would be okay, but he knew that was not the truth and the one thing he was not was a liar. He could omit portions of the truth to work for his benefit or simply remain completely silent altogether. In this case with his beloved Charis, he leaned towards the latter to maintain her sanity and would progressively release that information steadily. Her earlier show displayed how ill-prepared she was about learning of the several millennia of knowledge would affect her if all were to be dumped onto her. It was increasingly worrisome of her possible reaction towards his plans and the number of lives taken in pursuit of his goal, the Ascian’s goal. Charis, even if she had given the consent to acknowledge his actions, she could look at him in scorn or worse, fully unable to forgive him despite all reasoning. There were times he found himself wondering if the effort was even worth it, but since he was forcibly brought out of his slumber, he had to bury those feelings away. While they were headed towards this new future all due to Her actions, it was not the past he loved.

Perhaps he should not have permitted the Emissary to drive his every move, else he would not be in this situation in the first place. Elidibus hardly remembered anything behind his purpose, their world…himself. Maybe it was due to that sort of pity he refused to abandon him. Elidibus was the youngest, the most impressionable after all. Ever since he removed himself from Zodiark, the boy had never been the same and outright refused to make use of his crystal, then the young man could find true meaning again behind their goals. There was also the possibility that if Charis was brought before him, then he would remember something.

A sigh escaped his lips, “The fool will not listen, simply wishful thinking.” He mumbled to the empty darkness of the void. 

Emet-Selch decided he would dwell on the situation once the opportunity presented himself. And so, he permitted his mind to drift off into a blissful slumber. His wife’s face filled his mind-her gentle smile, her boisterous laugh escaping her lips, and the tears of sadness streaking her cheeks. The Ascian spent so, so long trying to get her back and here she was. To think, when he originally met the incorrigible woman, he barely wanted any part of her company.

In a time long ago, when the star was whole and mankind in a state of prosperity, there lied an ancient city as the capital where like-minded souls gathered. The city was one of my dreams. There stood buildings as tall as the eye can see with yellow lights gleaming from top to bottom. The stars of the night sky twinkled beautifully, quietly. The streets were lined with citizens, kindly chatting away with colleagues, friends, or family as they headed to their destination for the night, all except for one individual.

A young Hades lied back on the freshly manicured lawn of the park, silently observing the souls within the Underworld. His gift was bestowed upon him at birth and was far greater than others amongst their society. It allowed him to perceive the souls dancing in between, each with a distinct hue and life to be told. Most were his elders who completed their duty to their people, to their world, and he could only watch, knowing that he too would one day be amongst that number when the time came.

He often found himself in this same location after a long day in the academia perfecting his craft and attending to his studies as a new day would dawn. He hardly expected any surprises as he focused entirely on himself and no others. However, he would find himself aiding a colleague or two in their ambitions, if it did not cause him any inconvenience. He did not hold any big ambitions; he only wished to provide his knowledge where he could if it meant their society prevailed and maintained.

His eyelids closed, hiding his amber eyes behind the white mask. A content sigh escaped his lips, enjoying the peace in solitude, until a woman’s voice captured his attention.

“’Tis a beautiful night for stargazing,” the unfamiliar voice stated. “Do you mind if I join you?”

The man remained silent as he groaned inwardly, “If I ignore her, then she will go away.”

There was a pregnant pause afterwards, followed by the soft footsteps and gentle breeze, signaling her departure. “That was simpler than I thought, but the adequate solution for unwanted company.”

Another brush of wind erupted next to his body as he heard the crash of the grass mere feet away from him, causing the ancient to groan mentally in discontent.

“I’ll take you silence as a yes,” she chirped happily, seemingly oblivious to his emotions.

Hades knew this called for a more straightforward method as her behavior was similar to someone else he knew. His eyes remained closed. “What possibly caused you to think my silence as approval for your company?”

“Well, you did not object,” the mysterious woman responded.

“But the word ‘yes’ did not escape me either,” he bit back in an unkind manner. “Is this woman daft?” Hades opened his eyes to see who seemed so content with disrupting his silence.

Just as all the other denizens of Amarout, the woman fashioned a plain black robe, but her cowl was down, revealing her long, messily kept black hair. Her skin was a fair shade of brown, and smooth as a babe’s behind. Then there were her eyes, glowing the most beautiful shade of red he had ever laid his eyes upon. They held a sense of wonderment and downright mischievousness he had ever seen before. One look at her and he knew she was trouble.

“That may be true but is it so awful to join another in a common task?” she inquired with a cheeky grin. “After all, that is one of the very ideologies our society is based upon.”

The young man rolled his eyes as he turned to his side, “You are correct, but I prefer to enjoy my time in solitude. Now leave me alone.”

The woman chuckled in delight, clearly unfazed by his disgruntled behavior. “You’re just as pleasant as Hythlodaeus made you out to be.”

Hades’ eyes snapped back open at the mention of his friend’s name and sat up just as quickly. As open and kind the man was, he was equally smug, always wanting for amusement, “Whose name did you speak of?”

“Hythlodaeus,” she replied cheekily, happy she received a rection out of the dour man. “I have the opportunity of taking a course with him in the Akademia.”

“Of course you do,” he sighed yet again. Hades realized he had been baited right into her trap and now that had given her reactions and response. He pushed himself off the soft layers of the grass and looked the woman dead into the glowing eyes of hers, but his frown remained. “And what, pray tell, caused my name to be brought up in your conversation I had nothing to do with.”

The woman reached inside her robe pocket and pulled out a small, glowing crystal as it glimmered beautifully in the night, “This my friend. I’ve been having difficulties with a certain creation of mine and so did I go to Hythlodaeus for assistance. He stated on different occasions that his ability to manipulate aether was lacking and knew of a better individual far greater than himself.”

Hades rolled his eyes in response, but he took the crystal nonetheless as he inspected it with great detail. “Interesting.” The young man could see the hard work she had placed into it, but the concept held far too much aether inside. “If it were to be approved, this hound-like creature would be far too aggressive. Egad woman, what were you thinking? Are you trying to send our people int chaos?”

A pink blush spread across her cheeks in embarrassment and a sheepish laugh followed behind, “I realize my…control over it left much to be desired. I wanted to have a familiar that was both loyal and protective, but you see what the end result has become.”

“Honestly,” he commented with a shake of his head. “What made you think that was a good idea?”

Her eyes left him and directed her attention to the night sky, filled with admiration of a child, “I wish to travel the star one day. The efforts of our predecessors have left us with a place like none other or as far as we know, and I wish to experience it all. I have even enrolled into the Words of Azem in hopes of making that goal possible. Once I have perfected everything then it will be in my company all the time. Until that point comes, would you be able to assist me?”

“No,” Hades responded flatly. He gave her back her crystal and laid back into his earlier position with his eyes closed. “I have no inclination to assist a stranger of sorts as it will provide me no small amount of unnecessary inconvenience.”

“Charis,” she responded happily, returning her attention to him.

He opened his eyes again with a small grumble, “Come again.”

“My name is Charis,” Charis repeated as her face hung over his. “Now, we are acquainted with one another, and I do hope we can be the best of friends.”

“I made no such agreement,” he countered in annoyance as he shot back up. Unfortunately, his words fell on deaf ears.

Instead of dignifying him with a response, she jumped to her feet and ran off with a wave of farewell, “Thanks my friend. I will be looking forward to collaborating with yu. Just wait until Hythlodaeus hears the good news.”

Hades allowed his body to his feet as he watched Charis leaving him with a scowl upon his features, “I stand corrected, she is far worse than Hythlodaeus and judging by her behavior, she will be prone to providing me trouble.”

He was at least grateful that she was gone, and his silence returned to him, but it would do him no good as it was now time to return to his dwelling for the night.

Hades rose from his slumber and examined his surroundings. In his groggy state of mind, he had nearly forgotten the fact he returned to the shadows to replenish his energy after the fiasco. However, he did remember that he had not dreamt so pleasantly in a painstakingly long time, then it was of the first meeting with his Charis. Initially, he berated his even longer time friend for sending the woman his direction the very next day, but once she departed prior to the sundering, he regretted some of his earlier behavior towards her. Some.

“I suppose she is awake by now,” he said to no one in particular. “I can only imagine her elation to actually be within the confines of these walls for the time being.”

A portal enveloped his body and in seconds, he was within her chambers. TO his surprise, the traveler remained yet asleep, oblivious to his newfound presence in the small domicile. There was a bright smile upon her lips, making him wonder what transpired in her own. Hopefully, it was something just as pleasant as his own. He peered over to the clock; it was approaching the fifth bell. Immediately, he realized he only slept for a very short time, but it was all relative to him. At least he could stay at her side.

Alphinaud and Alisaie walked through the streets of the Crystarium, taking in the sights and people of the people from their short-lived residence before they had departed to their respective locations among the First. As the Exarch was perfecting his summoning ritual, the twins had little idea how long it would be before the arrival of their dearest friend and confidant. After all, they had each spent a year in this shard as time passed differently than on the Source, so receiving news of her arrival lifted their hearts by leaps and bounds.

Alisaie, despite the news, remained angry at him. While the intention was a noble one, his timing couldn’t be more than horrible. Eorzea was in the middle of a war with the Garlean Empire due to reclaiming Doma and Ala Mhigo. Furthermore, it seemed Varis was hellbent on seeing the calamity and he was willing to sacrifice the lives of everyone else to achieve his goal. His interference left Nala alone on the battlefield when she could have helped. She would have been relieved to know everything would be alright. While Nala did have the aide of the alliance leaders, it would have left her with the extra bit of assurance that victory would come. After all the occasions she and the other Scions forced her into the heart of the conflict because of their ambitions, this was the one time she would’ve had assistance out there in the combat. Nala even listened to her frustrations without a single complaint, even offering her advice, and now it was time to return the favor.

The red clad twin stepped in the center of the crossways towards the Ocular and stared into the light trodden sky above, capturing the attention of her brother, “Is there something the matter Alisaie?”

A bittersweet smile appeared on her lips, “Can you believe Alphinaud? Nala is finally here, on the First. We can finally apologize for one and give this world a fighting chance, but…”

“But what? It’s unlike you to be at a loss for words,” he teased, but at heart, he shared the same frustrations as his sister. He was elated at the long, overdue arrival. As much as he put her through over their friendship, he felt that he had abused her kindness far too many times, which earned him quite a few lectures at the end of it all. Most certainly, she addressed his behavior towards others, and he permitted his family lineage to get the best of him. Now, he was not so blinded. The failure of the Crystal Braves did make a strike at his ego, but he ultimately learned from the experience and was humbled by it.

“I just can’t shake it,” she growled out in frustration. “There’s something…off about Nala from what we witnessed in the Ocular. The Nala we know wouldn’t dare to get close to an unknown Garlean or resembling one for no reason at all. Honestly, it makes me worried because you may indeed be correct. There are no Garlean equivalents, and the Exarch did not mention anyone of import that was called along with her.”

“Yes, it is all very concerning,” he commented with a thoughtful expression. “However, he does hold a striking resemblance to Pluto back on the Source.”

“Too strong if you ask me,” she responded bitterly. “Which further makes me believe he is an Ascian. While we’re there, we should ask the Exarch to check in on her one last time. After all, Nala has not been one to stay in the same place for long. The last thing we need is her leaving the city to who knows here.”

“Agreed,” the boy nodded as he waited for his sister to make her move. “Speaking of which, how was your time in Amh Araeng?”

A weary sigh escaped her lips and her gaze fell as she proceeded towards the large structure ahead, “It was great. I was able to ease their troubles by slaying any sin eaters lurking around, but it was sad really. It was a place where they were forced to live out their final days in a sort of stasis before finally succumbing to the inevitable. The attendants took care of their patients like they were their own family. I wish…I wish there was something more I could’ve done for them, but…There was one who was spread too far thin but her kindness knew no limits.” Her eyes drifted to the sky once more as her final memory of the woman appeared in her mind’s eye, “She…sacrificed herself to ensure the youngest of the residents wasn’t killed by one of the nastier sin eaters. She…she became one herself and flew off.”

Alphinaud knew how his sister’s heart must have felt. The powerlessness to aid someone in grave danger. Unfortunately, if Alisaie attempted to save both her friend and the young resident, then she would’ve became a sin eater herself and that feeling would have him shattered to pieces. Sometimes, events played out in a certain way for a reason. At least, there was a silver lining, “With Nala amongst our number, we stand a fighting chance,” he commented as they began the ascension to the stairs. “No one will be forced to live in fear of yet another attack and we will stay by her side through it all.”

The two reached the top where the guard awaited their presence, “Ah, the Exarch has been expecting you. Please make your way to the Ocular.”

The man opened the door for the pair of twins, revealing the inside of the tower. On each side lay a staircase, leading into the tower proper and at the base, a door leading into the domain of the Crystal Exarch. Their footsteps echoed against the walls until they met the next door and opened it as well. The man, as always, was staring into the mirror with his back turned to the twins. The silence remained for a few moments until he finally turned around to greet his guests.

“Welcome back, have your preparations been made?” the hooded individual questioned smiling.

“Yes, we have and before we departed, there is something we would ask of you,” Alphinaud answered. “If it is not a problem, do you mind checking in on Nala’s whereabouts?”

“It seems we are of the same mind,” he stated, but there seemed to be a lingering sadness in his tone. “I have the view prepared.”

The twins eagerly approached the mirror and to their surprise, Nala was sound asleep in the darkness of the room and to her side, the same man they had seen before. He was staring at the sleeping Viera fondly-with a smile that could be compared to a man in love.

Alphinaud gasped slighty, “Whoever he is, he truly appears to care for Nala. It’s actually…sweet of him.

“You’re right, I’d almost feel guilty breaking them apart, but if he is an Ascian, why would Nala be with him?” Alisaie questioned with a huff.

“If Nala does indeed know him and they are as close as it would appear, then perhaps it would be beneficial if he came with us,” Alphinaud suggested, but the words felt wrong and left a bitter taste in his mouth. After everything the Ascians caused, he would never trust one in their order, but Nala’s feelings would be another matter.

On the other hand, the Crystal Exarch remained apprehensive of the visitor. He did not summon another individual with her or knew of one she would label as a beloved. She never, as far as he knew, did not have one. Then again, she may have purposely kept her intimate relationship a secret in the event one of her enemies dared to go after them; it was within her right to have a significant other. She was mortal after all.

“Is aught amiss Exarch?” Alphinaud questioned as he noticed the sudden bout of silence. “Are you worried about her as well?”

“I am and I regret my overzealousness,” he apologized as he returned his back to them. “However, I shall make my amends to her upon her safe arrival though I would much prefer to keep him at a distance.”

Alphinaud’s eyes narrowed slightly, “So, you sense it as well, trust me you are not the only one, but I’m sure we’ll get our answer soon enough.”

Hades continued to stroke the side of her face until he came to a pause. The woman was completely knocked out, “I suppose I worked my magic far too well on you my love, but it was all for your comfort.”

“I know and I must thank you for it,” she mumbled as her eyes fluttered open. She had felt his soft strokes for several minutes but refused to do anything about it as his touch continued in her urge to remain in a blissful slumber. Her red eyes locked onto Hades, and she gave a warm smile as she shuffled her arm from beneath the covers and placed her hand on top his and leaned into his warm touch. “But I must apologize for my fear. I’ve never…” Her expression turned painful as she thought over the events, “I did not expect one of those sin eaters to appear and I merely broke down. The Terminus, I cannot get them out my mind.”

“And I do not expect you to, not so soon,” he whispered softly. “Even I have difficulty doing so and think about how long I have been dwelling on this mortal plane. For me, ‘tis more a painful reminder of how I failed you and our people.”

“You did not fail me Hades, and you’d better not argue with me on that,” she countered forcefully. “You and the others did the best you could. Besides, I may not have the same form as previously, but I am alive. My soul wanted rest in its forced stasis.”

“Must you always find a silver lining?” Hades commented with an overexaggerated sigh. “Far be it from me to discourage you as much. If only I had found you sooner, prior to the sundering, then you would not be in this predicament.”

Charis merely nodded in agreement, “Perhaps there was a reason for it, but you now have someone to keep you in line.” Her eyes drew to the clock, finding the hour soon approached to meet the general. “I guess now is a good time to prepare myself.”

“Is there nothing I can do to dissuade you from this inane task?” he questioned grumpily as his spouse pulled away from him to get out of bed.

Charis merely smiled back at him cheekily, “No, there’s not.” Without another word, she entered the privy to prepare for the day’s events.

The happy couple followed the stairs to the lower levels of Eulmore that would lead them to the outskirts once again. As per usual, the amnesiac used the opportunity to observe her surroundings and take mental notes. She genuinely remained enraptured by the peoples’ contentment in their situation, but after seeing one of the wild creatures, she completely understood why. If they chose to depart to destinations unknown, they would only find themselves staring death in the face. Many of them appeared to lack the ability to properly utilize their natural aether for combative or defensive purposes as they likely did not have the opportunity to hone their abilities towards the crafts.

They would die in seconds. This was no way to live and honestly, she felt…a resentment towards her beloved mentor. The woman, her teacher, who had become Hydaelyn instead of finding a solution resorted to a violence that none would be able to recover from. As a result, people suffered greatly and were unable to defend themselves from the smallest threat. She had to find Venat and request answers. At least in the meantime, she could protect these souls…if only to gain Hades’ ire.

“Something is wrong,” he stated bluntly as they reached the bottom of the second level. “You’re quiet.”

“So, you do enjoy my ramblings,” she inquired teasingly. “I knew it.”

He rolled his eyes in response and a groan escaped his lips, “I said nothing of the sort, so I would like it if you did not put words into my mouth.” His expression softened, if only slightly, as he paused for a brief moment, “You know what I am referencing. Any moment you’re too quiet, that means you are focused on something. Enlighten me.”

“’Tis nothing we have not already covered,” Charis answered gently. “I merely need to accept that…Venat…changed our world, that she tore it apart.” She shook her head to herself, but the hurt smile on her face yet remained, “The concept of what I am to assist Ranjit with confounds me still, but I suppose I can grasp the ideology it is meant to protect their people.”

“I will not argue against your decision, because as I’ve stated previously, you will still do it despite my protests,” he commented. “However, you should you find any dissatisfaction, do not be afraid to break your ties.”

“You know that cannot be easily done,” Charis counted. She reached for his arm and locked hers into it to ensure he could not escape as she leaned in, “Thank you for all your support. ‘Tis nothing greater than having a devoted partner at my side.”

“Of course, anything for you my love,” he stated with tenderness.

A soldier stood dutifully by the door at attention as though he were looking for someone, until he caught sight of the couple. Charis could see the relief in his face as he hurriedly approached the Viera. The former ancient observed him curiously. Without thinking, she reached towards his helmet where his feline-like ears could be seen poking through from their intentionally designed slots.

“What are you doing?” he questioned, flinching back from the strange woman. No one, except for a child would attempt to do something so…incredulous.

“Oh, I’m sorry,” she laughed gently. “I merely find this concept interesting as it seems your hat is meant to accommodate your stature. Forgive my rudeness.”

“Honestly,” her spouse muttered under his breath. “Several millennia have passed and you refuse to respect an individual’s boundaries.”

The soldier blinked in confusion as he was unsure how to respond to this line of conversation. He had heard the rumors of her arrival, the erratic behavior and nonsense she spouted while within the gaols. The last thing they needed was her continued show of such behavior. He knew Lord Vauthry would not tolerate examples of her behavior for an extended period of time, but there had to be something about her where he permitted her continued stay in the city. Soon enough, he regained his composure and released an awkward cough, “Anyway, General Ran’jit is awaiting your presence at the training grounds. Please follow me and try not to cause any trouble.” His eyes drifted towards the Ascian, “And you are…”

“Emet-Selch, and I am her spouse,” he stated with a slight bow. His eyes narrowed immediately afterwards, “And it would do you wise to remember that.”

He gulped at the threatening hint in his voice and a bead of sweat rolled down the side of his face.

The guard turned around and led the couple outside the front gate. As per usual, they went down the stairs into the Derelicts where the people watched them in envy. Surprisingly, they continued onwards to the outer gates leading to the outskirts of Eulmore. There were stairs overarching another dilapidated town below, but unlike the Derelicts, the homes appeared to be in slightly better condition, but it still tore away at Charis’ heart. Had the Flood of Light really taken a toll on them this much?

“If you do not mind my asking, where exactly are we going?” Charis inquired.

“As I said, to the training grounds,” he answered curtly. “General Ran’jit instructed me to take you there. I’m unsure of his motives behind it, but by any indication, he wishes to test your skills in battle. There’s a reason he’s the head of the army and Lord Vauthry’s senior advisor, so I urge you to be careful if you wish to live another day. He’s a monster in battle.”

“Really, he is?” the Viera questioned almost too eagerly. She remember her training sessions with Venat. She had been broken and battered on several occasions in her earlier days, but over time, she was almost able to remain on par with the old Azem. “II wonder if he’s as strong as her.”

Hades leaned in enough to where his lips were nearly connected to her ears, “While I have no doubt in my mind of your abilities, remember you are not the same as you were before. ‘Twould do you well to reign in your ego.”

“I do not have an ego,” she responded indignantly. “Buut, I have learned my limitations rather quickly during our spar. I cannot expend my aether in the same capacity as before. My reservoirs are nowhere near as deep.”

“Do keep that in mind,” he urged as they reached the base. “I do not feel like carrying you back to your chambers for draining your aether. You are heavier than you realize.”

She smiled at his quip, “But you’ll still do it anyway.” Charis enjoyed purposely pressing his buttons, but she knew what kind of man he was despite his outward grumblings. He was dutiful and compassionate. He did not enjoy causing trouble for himself, but the moment she appealed to his nature, he would eventually cave in. That’s what she loved about her other half.

The soldier could only stifle his laughter, but he played it off as a poorly disguised cough. The two certainly talked like an old married couple with their quips and jabs towards one another, but he could certainly hear the affection in their voices. However, he was envious of Solus’ young appearance. He would need to obtain his secrets of youthfulness in his features. The Vii was understandable given their longevity. He took them to the Western side of the town where a man and his black feathered friend stood overlooking the view of the waters. He was tall In height, yet shorter than both the Ascian and Vii. His skin was brown with dusty blonde hair reaching past his shoulders. The clothes he wore were…outdated to put it nicely. From Hades’ perspective, he was likely a traveler in his own right.

“I’ve brought her as asked,” the soldier responded with a salute.

The traveler glanced over to the Warrior of Light with an observant stare before displaying a smile, “So, she’s the one, eh? She must be something worth investing for the old bat to personally test her.” The man gave a toothy grin as he stretched his hand out, “I go by the name Arland. Pleasure ta’ meet ya’ lass.”

“Azem,” she stated taking his hand. Hades made her promise to use their titles in public places, as they did in the world previously. After all, she still seemed to be so dedicated to her role in helping others, whether he liked it or not. She couldn’t argue the fact against him. “Likewise.”

“I won’t hold you for long or we’re all going to get in trouble,” Arland stated with a sigh. He patted the black creature, waking it up from the well-earned nap and looked back at the Viera. “Milo here will take you to the training ground and when you’re done, just hop on and he’ll bring you back. However, as a word of caution, Ran’jit is not one to take lightly. Apparently, he descended from a line of samurais and trained to work with these familiars, so if I were you, I’d watch my step.”

“I’ve heard the warning just a moment ago on our way here,” she stated confidently. “Now, E-“ She turned around to find her spouse had completely disappeared. She sighed, but the smile that remained displayed she was used to this. “That man. What am I going to do with him?”

“Did…did he leave?” the soldier questioned in shock. “I can go find-“

Charis shook her head before he could finish his sentence, “Do not concern yourself. Everything is fine. He will turn up eventually but thank you for your help. I greatly appreciate it. I just realized, I never asked what your name is.”

The helmed soldier blinked momentarily before he finally answered. How blunt could this Vii get? “Loc Ness. If you survive, I hope to see you around afterwards.”

She was starting to grow increasingly intrigued by the nature and tone of these comments. Was Ran’jit’s abilities so high of a standard that everyone feared or respected him. Why would Venat sunder everyone if they feared one another? Never mind, that was an inquiry for another day. She climbed onto the avian’s back and with a slap from his owner, he was signaled to take to the skies.

Charis laughed as it had been sometime since she experienced riding on the back of a familiar and pleasantly surprised by how fast it ascended into the sky. She looked below, silently observing the landscape as the distinguishable features of the decrepit towns faded from view, while Eulmore remained heavily visible. Her ruby eyes dropped to the ocean. Now that she was at a lower altitude than the city, she could see just how beautiful and clear the water was. Given the state of the world and the wreckage of those vessels, she felt that it would be in far worse condition. Soon, her attention drifted to the land out into the distance. She easily recognized it as the location Hades had brought her during their little sparring session. Scanning it all, it was mostly a barren area with mountains and cliffs, but she did manage to see a stray village or two as well. As far as she could discern, they were in no better condition than what she witnessed thus far, “How can anyone look at this travesty and be fine with it. Hades’ indifference was no surprise-most members of the convocation were that way. Quite frankly, she never understood it as they all lived on the same star, but it was hard to change the minds of those fully set in their ways. Then again, sometimes she did wonder if the people were better off trying to solve their issues before she or Venat interfered. Although, everything changed once the calamity struck close to home as it was destroying their society from the inside out. Furthermore, since nothing forced them to leave home, their detachment was understandable.

A sigh escaped her lips and turned her gaze to the platform coming into view. She squinted her eyes and with her limited sight, she could manage to see a singular individual standing in the center, signaling to her that it was the general. In a matter of seconds, it came closer and closer until the amaro landed. A loud squawk or chirp escaped the feathered creature meaning it was safe to disembark. She dropped off and offered him a soft stroke to his head before heading towards the general. Not so much to her surprise, his back was turned towards her with his hands cupped into one another behind his back. He was unmoving, unflinching. There were barely any indications that he was breathing, but she knew he was still living.

“Just barely on time,” he stated roughly. “Now, show me exactly what you are capable of and your performance may reflect if I have further use for you than merely a place in my army.”

A small nod came from the Viera. This man clearly did not care for idle chat. He commanded respect which people provided to him through and through. Years of combat can do that for a person, especially when they fought constant battles between life and death. However, she felt there was something more to his desire. Why her specifically? Why an individual with barely any memory of the past or present and not another who desires entry into this flourished city right beneath them? Maybe, he was impressed by her strength. She felt as though she knew the morning before, but now she was not so sure. Then again, it may be a part of the memories she requested Hades to lock away, so she can only assume it was for the best as well.

“My skills should be beneficial to you,” she stated mischievously. After her spar with her beloved, she gained a clear understanding. “I hope I shall not disappoint.”

Ran’jit sensed her confidence. It was a far cry from her display within Vauthry’s chambers but a few suns ago. She was a fighter, a warrior on the inside, yet the sin eaters left a traumatic imprint on her main. He raised his arms and a red snake familiar appeared floating at his side.

Charis’ eyes twinkled at the sight, “Interesting, it is as they said. You can command a familiar in such a fashion? This will truly be a great match.” Even in her past, she was unable to call hers forth in such a fashion. Hades preferred to snap his fingers, while she had to use a whistle of sorts to make her stubborn steed appear. Honestly, everyone had a preference as to how to manipulate their aether or summoning a familiar, but this age was different.

Without another word, the general charged in swiftly catching the former traveler off guard as he brought his fist forward. She did not see him move, only when he was directly in her face, two ilms away. She jumped back and proceeded to charge the aether into her rapier, choosing to temporarily keep her distance. Fortunately, the man proceeded to charge his own. However, she noticed the familiar locking eyes with her just as well. Unleashing a fire spell over the general’s body, he did not flinch in the slight, but she sensed an attack given by the electricity of the snake. Just after her thought passed, the creature unleashed his stored energy, in which she jumped to the side before it could do her harm. Before Ran’jit himself could finish, she unleashed her wind spell, but the general remained unflinching, but another bolt of electricity burst forth past her body. She mumbled softly. It barely missed her. It had a larger width than hers. Again, Ran’jit rushed in, yet this time, the beast went off on his own to do as his master commanded.

He continued moving until he was in her face once more, kicking his foot around faster than she expected, but given her experience in battle, she managed to react just as swiftly with her weapon. Then another came from the opposite side. She moved her right arm to her left side to prevent contact with her face. He dropped his foot, choosing to switch to his fists now. Left punch, block, right palm, it pushed her back as he struck her gut. He was not giving her any opportunity to cast. This reminded her of Venat’s sessions and when she did not show signs of letting up, Charis switched her weapons to allow for immediate responses to her predecessor’s attacks. Right now, she did not have that luxury. Ran’jit pushed her back with a force of wind, just for his familiar to appear behind her fully charged. The Viera hardened her gaze and dodged the crackling bolts meant for her.

Charis watched as it blasted into a boulder ahead, leaving a scorched mark, but she had to quickly return her attention to the general knowing he would use her distraction to his advantage. However, she could not stop the excited grin from adorning her features. She always enjoyed a spar with an equal or an equally difficult challenge in her path and this man fit the role perfectly. She gathered herself together and proceeded to begin another cast. She would not allow anymore distractions to prove her worth, “One, two, three, four, five!’

The Traveler unleashed her wind spell once more and as it did previously, bolted towards him. He escaped the gust’s path with a simple flip to the side before it could attempt to send him flying only for stones to begin flying at him. As he regained his footing, he prepared his casts and to her surprise, balls of fire appeared next to her, “Move now.”

She jumped away as the explosion of the fireball went off, but as she landed, another was waiting for her. They were appearing in several spots across the training ground. Charis went back to the same area where the first one exploded and waited for the rest to go off. The dance proceeded again, each trading blows physically or by magicks, by extension the familiar. Yet instead of focusing on her skills requiring increased focus, she deferred to her Jolts to instantly cast the wind or thunder before her fire or stone. She had to keep rotating between the spells as it built the light and dark mana within her stone until it was fully charged, indicated by the brighter glow from it.

As Ran’jit approached her a final time, he was faintly surprised to see her move in his direction rather than try to run away. Perhaps, she was prepared to end it as well. As the two came into ilms of one another, Charis applied her aether stored in her crystal to her rapier and proceeded to attack.

Arm thrust upward to slightly off balance him. One

Another towards his chest in the form of an X. Two

A zig zig across his chest before kicking against his blocking arms. Three.

A large flare of light extending over body. Four.

When the light settled, Charis demeanor did not change in the slightest. The commander stood in his same position, practically unfazed by everything that transpired within the last few moments. However, her case was entirely different as she continued to breathe heavily from expending so much energy, “Well, did that satisfy you?”

“Your display will satisfy for now but your skill is of greater value of my other men,” he stated plainly.

To say the least, the Vii was an oddity and she intrigued him a bit. She was aware of herself and surroundings, with as he stated, skills beyond compare to those in the army. Even in his hidden observations, he could see the woman genuinely cared for everybody she met and treated them despite her position as a bonded citizen, seen as a miscreant. There was even a certain innate charisma that allowed her to get close to anyone she crossed paths. With traits such as these, she would be beneficial in accomplishing his goal of retrieving the girl. “I will find use for you in the coming future. You are dismissed for the moment. Attend to your wounds and find me by day’s end. I will show you where you will be training my forces.”

Charis tilted her head to the side, somewhat confused by his sudden dismissal of her. It was only fair though that she addressed her hygiene and wounds first before participating in anything else. Although, an unsettling feeling appeared in the base of her gut and she needed to know more. “Truly? It seems there is something else on your mind and there is no use in falsifying the truth. I can discern any lies should it come to that route. Tell me, what task do you wish to have my aid for?”

Ran’jit almost chuckled at her bluntness, “Earn my trust and I will defer my ambition to you.”

“’Tis only fair I suppose,” she stated with a nod. “Thank you for indulging in my request.”

She returned to the Amaro that brought her here and climbed on its back. Giving the feathered beast a tap on his back, it gave a loud squawk before ascending into the skies. As she faded from view, the hardened general narrowed his eyes in her direction.

-Elsewhere-

Under the sunless sea, in the forest filled with lush trees, a young girl stood staring deep into the distance. Her eyes were crystal blue and carried golden long locks, “She’s arrived…”

Chapter Text

Emet-Selch stood before the gates of Eulmore, carefully observing the point of arrival for his other half. As frustrated as he was with her antics and the decisions, she made to abandon the Convocation, he wanted no other at his side. His mischievous Charis balanced out his admittedly disgruntled demeanor, whether he wanted her to or not. While she inhabited a broken vessel, the memories restored from the core of her soul were indeed true. He had to thank the fool who ripped her across the rift as going forward, she would no longer be a thorn in his side in one fashion as she retained the ability and fascination to enrage him for no reason at all. At least she would no longer be hopelessly devoted to Hydaelyn. She can now draw her own conclusions about this world and perhaps see how flawed these mortals are.

Initially, through nothing short of his heart’s prayers, did he feel a certain tug in the life stream under his identity as Solus. He turned his attention to the sea of wandering souls and saw that one he kept his eye on, waiting for her inevitable return when she was ready to awaken. The royal blue soul flickered to life and raced across the sea towards the mortal realm. With his abilities, he easily evaded the view of his subordinates and followed it until he arrived in the Gelmorran Jungle, home to the Rava Viera tribe. There he saw it take residence in a vessel, a fractured one. Over the years, he kept watch over her to ensure she did not succumb to a foolish death, especially so when Hydaelyn granted her former disciple with protection. After some time, he posed as an adventuring comrade to see how close she was to her true self. The Viera was reserved, but somehow, she was increasingly reckless, yet it was a fond reminder. Then there were moments where it seemed lingering memories resurfaced, much to her confusion.

The Ascian sighed. Twelve millennia, he walked this arduous path alone. He could finally begin it all anew with a restored vigor. Honestly, he only gave half-hearted attempts in the recent rejoining. Upon completion, he’d enjoy idleness and permit his colleagues to take over with the next. Yet this time, he was not so fortunate due to Lahabrea’s crowning act of idiocy that the Emissary deemed it necessary to pull him from his well-deserved break with his beloved, though under that false identity of hers. Despite his annoyance however, he did mourn the loss of another colleague from the days of eld.

A sigh escaped him as he reviewed the Aetherial Sea. Prior to her arrival, he did feel something amiss. Unfortunately, she found reason to be captured and placed into custody, but he noticed a trail of aether lingering about at her point of arrival. Despite this shard’s deplorable state, all such concentrated aether was gone, “Even by her measure, there lies few methods to traverse the rift. The only known method is by way of abandoning a mortal shell, but I clearly see such is not the case.” He rubbed his temples, “Do you realize how much of a headache you caused me this time? No matter how many times I lecture you about your habits, you still seem rather fond of the acts.”

His pale golden eyes drifted to the sunless sea. He held no doubt in his mind that the oversaturation of Light was the reason behind her summoning. Yet it further puzzled him how the impossible task would be accomplished. Only by defeating the Lightwardens in each region would reverse the effects, but at the expense of one’s own life, which was foolish by far. The absorption of a Lightwarden’s corrupted aether would be too much for a soul to bear, causing it to break and morph the individual into the next Lightwarden to take the previous place. It was a pointless death really. Many have tried and failed against those creatures. Even the fabled Oracle of Lights were unable to stand against meager sin eaters. So, if the summoner of this shard chose a different method by calling upon one whose soul was far denser than those here on the shard due to the rejoining. He would not allow Charis to become involved, “Of course. Nothing of import can be found here. Perhaps the Crystarium is where I should divert my focus. After all, the Crystal Tower’s presence here rises for suspicion.”

Alphinaud and Alisaie had long since arrived in Kholusia. The region was bare and barren as the rest of the blighted world. Eulmore and the Crystarium were the only sanctuaries where the citizens maintained a semblance of peace. It was a shame that the remaining inhabitants following the Flood held such few locations to flee following it and their descendants to continue in the only places they knew as home. Even Eulmore was a stretch as only those privileged with money or talent could join those already in the safe haven.

“So Alphinaud, how have you spent your time? I hope it was productive,” the female Elezen questioned.

“About as well as yours, I’m assuming,” he responded with a shake of his head. “As I’ve told you I have been following a business route so I may gain entrance into the city. A tireless pursuit really, but with time, the seeds will bear fruit.”

“We don’t have time,” she growled out in frustration. She looked into the distance where Eulmore flaunted its so-called paradise and established society. “Nala is somewhere in there and we need to assist her in escaping. If that Garlean is truly an Ascian, then she’s in far more trouble than we think. We cannot fail her…not again.”

The Scholar hated seeing his sister this way, but he understood just how she felt. While in the process of investigating the empire and the Black Rose, he was accidentally summoned by the Exarch, leaving only Gaius and his comrades to finish the task. They had discovered an important plot unfolding within the realm of the empire, but given by the news, it did reach back to Hien and the others. However, events only seemed to grow worse as war broke out with the empire, in which his sister was properly claimed, “We will not fail her again Alisaie. I assure you; all will be quite fine. If anything, our time should be nearing its end. ”

The red mage shook her head to reel in her emotions, “Fine, but if you do fail, I am not going to let you hear the end of it and we are going to try things my way.”

“Duly noted,” he responded with a slow nod. The last thing he wanted to happen was for his sister to take reigns of his operation, but he was fortunate to quell her spirits for the time being. However, he could not help ful feel she yet hid something from him. “And if you do not mind my prying, what of your events in Amh Araeng. From my understanding, ‘tis a region infested by sin eaters given its location to the Flood. I always worried for your safety.”

She paused at the crossroads, “I appreciate your concern brother. While I know you are not as well versed in offensive tactics, I might’ve felt more comforted if you had been there with you healing me. Anyway, ‘twas an unspoken fact that whoever lived there would succumb to the dangers of the sin eaters one way or the other. The people lived in constant fear of an attack, being unable to make simple errands to the next village over, or simply waited for the corruption to finally make one turn. My willingness to fight and protect those who remained was the only way I could remain preoccupied. We’re stuck here until we can find a way to eliminate the Lightwardens before the Black Rose can be unleashed.” Despite her bravado, an aching pain lingered in her heart. However, she would make amends.

“You’re right and the only way to accomplish said goal is to retrieve Nala before the worst,” Alphinaud agreed with a nod. “No…I believe the time is approaching. Follow me Alisaie as there is something I want you to see.”

Without another word, the scholar went ahead of his sister, but the girl followed quickly behind him. She could only imagine it had something to do with his project. They walked with the utmost swiftness, but in doing so, she could not help but allow a gentle smile to grace her lips. It had been some time since they had been in each other’s company. The time apart was necessary for their ambitions but knowing that they would come out unscathed allowed her to appreciate it.

It did not take long for the two to arrive in a village just outside the lavish sanctuary. They saw most of the residents of this worn-down settlement gathered in the center with hopeful expressions.

“Now, do you mind filling me in?” Alisaie questioned curiously.

Chuckle suddenly caught their attention and the two turned to see a Hume male, “What’s this? Another one of you, eh?” He eyed Alisaie hungrily, causing the girl to give him a disgusted expression back. “So, do you have a trick or three up you sleeve?”

The red mage felt as though she was being preyed upon by the begrimed man and wanted to provide him with exactly what he asked for. 

However, before she had the opportunity, Alphinaud stretched an arm out of her defensively with a firm expression to match, “She is not here to compete! Leave her be!”

“Oh, I was only trying to make conversation,” he responded indignantly. The stranger saw that he would not be able to swindle a talent from the look alike. He turned away and proceeded to return to the hole he crawled from.

“Thank you Alphinaud, had he said anything else, I doubt you could’ve restrained me,” she commented with a sigh. “Now, do you mind informing me of what this is all about?”

The male Elezen nodded quickly as he processed to answer, “Every day, representatives from Eulmore come out to fish for those desperate to gain entrance through talents and the like. From there, they are to be paired with the proprietor, searching for one with said skill.” 

A huff escaped her lips, “So, in short, they leave the safety of their city to prey on the less fortunate and bring them back in as something no better than a slave. And if the proprietor is not satisfied, they end up tossed out like Tristian?”

The male Elezen merely nodded his head and sighed. The blunt statement from his sister was not at all a surprise, “It is the only way they can expect to survive. Some wish to live out their days free of poverty and away from the dangers of the sin eaters. After all, ‘twould be death to even think about traveling to the Crystarium.”

Alisaie remained silent for a moment. That was true. In a land struggling to survive, people would do anything to see the light of another day. It made her wonder--if the Source ever came this close to true destruction, would they enact the same sort of policies? Likely so, as given by Urianger’s vision, people resorted to mercenary lifestyles for those who managed to survive. She could not allow that to happen.”

The sound of a horn caught their attention, “Ladies and Gentlemen! Your attention please!”

“Right on schedule,” Alphinaud stated as he headed towards the gathering crowd.

The citizens of Gatetown quickly went before two young jongleurs, one dressed in red and black and the other in blue and black with sacks at their feet.

If I had to make a guess, those two are twins as well,” Alisaie observed. “But is this what you meant Alphinaud? How the Eulmorans scout for vulnerable and desperate?”

“Yes, it is,” he responded simply.

“Greetings to our hopeful petitioners, one and all,” announced the woman dressed in red. “Eulmore extends its warmest regards. Let it be known that a lady of distinction wishes to dine on fish divine!”

Now, it was the blue jongleur’s turn to speak, “We seek a master culinarian who can guarantee seafood perfection! Dazzle the matron with your delicious dishes and life in the city will be yours to enjoy. Even on days when fish is not on the menu!”

Her sister nodded in agreement and continued to speak, “Who among you all will answer the call? Name yourself or another, we mind not at all!”

“Are you kidding me?” the fiery red mage all but yelled. “Who do they think they are? You mean to inform me they-”

“Settle down Alisaie,” Alphinaud hushed quickly. “Causing a ruckus will ruin our upcoming chances of being selected. Believe me, I do not enjoy watching innocent civilians being picked over like market produce.”

The two continued to observe from a distance as a Roegydan female, dressed in fishermen’s garbs, approached the Eulmoran delegates. The woman examined her with apparently scrutinizing gazes. Once the two had their fill, their lips curved up into pleased smiles in return.

“Ohoho! What a catch!” the red garbed jongleur continued in her overexaggerated excitement. “We’ll not be throwing this one back! Having seen your all-too-obvious charm, we welcome you with open arms. Come join us in the city of splendor and live out your life in an ecstasy of endeavor!”

Cheers erupted at the approval. However, once it stopped, the crowd continued to look on with pleading expressions.

“Oh, just look at those expectant faces! What could you possibly be waiting for?!” the blue woman inquired. 

“I believe I’ve heard enough of this,” Alisaie groaned as she turned on her heels. She had enough of this show given by the delegates. To think this is how the Eulmorans thought of people disgusted her. They simply only wanted to use the less fortunate to satisfy their demands without so much as lifting their own fingers. This seemed to be a common trait for those privileged no matter where they were. This was the worst place her comrade could have wound up with the Exarch’s spell. She waited off to the side, silently huffing until her brother cared to join her.

The scholar did not say anything immediately so his sister could have ample time to settle her emotions. It left a stagnant silence while the grateful people of Gatetown hurriedly divided their meol amongst their families. Alisaie sighed, “I cannot believe there is no other method. I wouldn’t have minded even sneaking in, but I feel that would provide more trouble than it’s worth. However, I feel even had Nala been summoned correctly, nothing about this would’ve changed. Your efforts would’ve allowed you to get into the city and Nala standing here with you instead.”

Alphinaud could only smile, “Perhaps she would, and far less complaintive I might add.”

“One more quip of that nature and I’ll be making my way back to the Crystarium,” she countered in annoyance. Her expression settled, “Do you think your plan will truly work?”

“’Tis hard to say exactly,” he answered honestly. There was something nagging at the edge of his skull that led him to doubt everything, but he would not know until trying. “The arrangement created by Eulmore’s current mayor came into effect prior to our arrival, for two decades at least. Unless you truly display exemplary talents and worldly travails, then most bonded are chosen out of sheer luck on a whim. However, my efforts have permitted me to create trade with the Ondo here as land grown fruit is something of a delicacy amongst their kind.” A wide, cheeky grin appeared on his lips from the pride he felt for coming this far. “I’m sure even the most influential Eulmoran is unable to resist the tales of someone creating pearls from plum and pumpkins.”

The red mage crossed her arms, tickled by his boast, “You’ve certainly come a long way. Tataru will surely be glad to hear of your achievement; that you’re no longer spending coin without a second thought.”

He dropped his head in response, “Yes, I have indeed. Tataru would not allow me to hear the end of my exploitation of the Scion coffers.”

The male Elezen soon went on and on about his task, leaving his sister only pretending to listen. She carefully watched their surroundings. She felt as though someone was watching them from close by, but she could not discern from where. With an extended time in the wilds of Eorzea and her time here on the First, she had grown aware of even the slightest shift in her surrounding area. She was certainly no match for individuals like Nala or Thancred, but it was enough to get by for now.

“It’s almost time to meet the Ondo,” Alphinaud stated, finally gaining his sister’s interest again. “Let’s procure the vegetables and be on our way.”

“Right, I’d like this to be over as soon as possible,” Alisaie agreed. “But if I might ask, did you notice it brother? We were being watched.”

“Really? I had not noticed,” he responded, a bit surprised. He did not expect them to notice, but Eulmore had eyes in many places. “I doubt it is something we should be wary of. The population here is far more concerned with their rations of meol for the time being.”

What was she going to do with her brother. While he had humbled and grown over the years, his obliviousness to his surroundings were a different matter. She would have to be both their eyes and ears until they reached Eulmore. 

The two trekked across a short distance from Gatetown to another small settlement, but as they did, Alisaie could not help but think of the home she made while in Kholusia. The caretakers at the inn were friendly people; ensuring those nearing their transformation in weeks, moons, or even summers were accommodated despite their despondency to everything around them. However, one particular individual stretched herself much too thin and she paid the price for it, but her kindness was unmatched. Yet at least the boy, Halric, was alive from the experience. “I’m sorry I could not act swiftly enough to prevent that sin eater from attacking. I promise. I will not fail again.”

They arrived at a building made of solid brick. The citizens were in slightly better condition, and it did not seem they were all too eager to run to Eulmore. Unlike those in Gatetown, these people were far more self-sufficient. They could live so long as they remained vigilant with sin eater sightings.

Alphinaud lead the way and took them to the Miqo’te attending to her supplies beneath the shade. Her ears pricked at the sound of soft footsteps from behind, causing her to turn around. The sight of two of her clients nearly surprised the female Mystel, but her nerves immediately settled upon the realization they were twins.

“Sister, meet Mosha-Moa, the merchant I informed you of,” the male Levilluer introduced with slight amusement. Those he often associated himself with since leaving the Crystarium were not aware of his sister’s existence. There was obviously no need given she had not had any prior reason to leave Amh Araeng, so the reactions would be a welcomed sight.

“Good day, is there something I may assist you with friend?” she questioned in slight confusion.

“Good day to you Mosha-Moa. This is my sister, Alisaie,” he stated. “We are here to collect the produced.”

The Mystel tiled her head in further puzzlement, “Eh? I loaded your lackey up with the goods not long ago.”

Alphinaud jumped in surprise at her statement. Now it was his turn to be confused, “My lackey?! I do not know such person!”

“Mystel eh, short blue hair,” she described to jog the boy’s memory. “He said he came on your behalf and since he seemed to know all the details, I assumed…”

The male Elezen suddenly felt the hairs on the back of his neck on edge at a rise in animosity. He nearly broke out into a cold sweat as he hesitantly looked over to his sister. Her blue eyes were filled with a certain smugness as she forced herself to grin to hide the anger in front of his associate. She was correct in her judgement, and he had simply dismissed it. “Confound it! Someone must have been eavesdropping on our conversation as you said.” How could he be so foolish? Now was not the time to lament his failings. “If this charlatan was here not long ago, then he couldn’t have gone too far. We should split up and search the area. You find a vantage point on the south side and I shall take the west.”

His sister folded her arms over her chest and her glare deepened at his orders, “I have half a mind to tell you to do this alone since you refused to listen to me.”

Alphinaud provided his sister with an apologetic smile, “Once this is over, I shall make it up to you.” He hurriedly dashed off to proceed with his search for the mysterious boy. He wanted to get away from his sister also before she had the opportunity to unleash her wrath. The red mage and her fiery temper was not something he could go against, but it was his own fault for dismissing her suspicions as something else. 

“Forgive me, I had no cause to doubt the lad,” the Mystel female apologized. “Still, he shouldn’t be too hard to spot with that blue hair of his…”

She nodded in confirmation and used this opportunity to leave. For a bell or two, the twins scoured the area in search of their mystery target. With Alisaie’s higher ground, she managed to see him pacing near the lighthouse. It was obvious, even from her distance, that her target was rather anxious. He knew he was doing something he had no business doing, but desperation likely led him to snatch her brother’s plan. The boy soon ran off into the distance, signaling for the Elezen to follow behind him and fortunately enough, her brother caught sight of him as well.

“There you are!” Alphinaud yelled, catching the teenager’s attention.

The blue haired Mystel jumped in surprise at the sudden announcement and turned to see the annoyed set of twins.

“The thief who claimed the harvest on my behalf,” the scholar stated narrowing his eyes. “Hand it over!”

He looked between the twins, “Wha..I…I…” He dropped to his hands and knees as everything came crashing down on him. He had no other choice but to grovel to the Scion, “Forgive me. I just-I have to get into the city.” He pushed his upper body from the ground, but given the shoddy conditions of his clothes, the dust flaring up from the terrain or getting onto him mattered not to him. “I have no family, and all my friends have already been chosen.” That much was plain. Not unlike the other citizens lingering within Gatetown, he wore rags—a long shirt reaching past his waist and a black pair of loose-fitting shorts. They had clearly seen better days. “No one here gives a damn about me. When the meol gets handed out, I’m lucky if I get a smell of it. No matter what I do, they won’t call my name! I’m so tired—I’m so bloody hungry.” He lifted his head up to Alphinaud, his gaze pleading and desperate. “I thought may I could steal your idea—get in that way.”

The twins suddenly felt sorry for the less fortunate teenager. He had to be nearly their age and he was only trying to get by—to find a way to be with the only people who mattered to him. He desired to escape the harsh conditions of Kholusia. Alisaie hated what this famed paradise turned people into just to try get in. While it was far worse off due to its location, at least those she met in Amh Araeng were making due—even with the constant threat for sin eaters. 

Alphinaud was just as displeased. In fact, he pitied his mystery thief. In all honesty, he could not blame the boy for resorting to such a method. He was desperate, hungry, and alone. No one could survive for long unless they were resourceful. This reminded him—it was no different from the Source. When driven to the brink, theft was the only reasonable option available left for an individual. He gave the thought another consideration before speaking, “What is your name?”

The sniveling Mystel paused as he attempted to gather himself, “Kai-Shirr.”

The male Elezen’s arms dropped to his sides as he made further inquiries, “Tell me then Kai-Shirr, must it be Eulmore or nothing? What of the Crystarium? They may not offer charity, but you would be fairly compensated for any work you did.”

He shook his head furiously in denial, “No, no! It has to be Eulmore! That’s where all my friends are. We made a promise we’d live together in paradise.”

The female Elezen observed her brother’s forlorn expression. She could not blame him for having second thoughts. She did as well and listening to Kai-Shirr’s story caused a heavy weight to carry down her chest. “I know that look Alphinaud.” She smiled at him briefly as he glanced at her with a somewhat surprised expression. “I know we’ll discover another way. A shame really after everything, but ‘tis for the best.”

“Wha-“ the Mystel questioned in puzzlement.

“I was to make my deal with the Ondo at the enclave,” Alphinaud stated, resigning to the heartfelt plea. “Listen carefully, and I shall tell you my plans for the business, and how best to use the Eulmorans’ interest.”

Kai-Shirr’s eyes lit up in anticipation and his ears were no longer flatted against his head, “You’ll give me your place? Just like that?”

“I’m giving you a chance, nothing more,” Alphinaud clarified bluntly. “What comes of it is entirely up to you”

The boy did not know what to do, “I understand! Thank you! Thank you!”

The scholar began to relay the details of his plan while the Mystel listened intently. Before long, he learned all he needed to know and with a wave goodbye, he was off towards the meeting location.”

“Do you think you did the right thing brother?” she questioned with that same knowing smile.

“This was but one path—there will be others,” he stated wisely. “But for young Kai-Shirr, it was the difference between life and death. I do not regret my decision, yet I will admit that part of me wonders if it was for the best.”

“We’ll see it for what it is for,” she answered. “Honestly, I would not be surprised if Nala chanced upon him too and gave him a piece of her mind if he was in trouble.” She paused for a moment and looked to her brother. He was ever the worry wart. “Something remains on your mind.”

“We strive to bring swift salvation to this world, that countless lives might be saved—least not your own,” he stated in a deep reflection. “Even if it came at the cost of one man, should I have pressed on regardless?”

Alisaie shook her head. Sometimes he could be insightful and other times, very dense about his own tendencies, “Brother, that’s simply not who you are; either of us if you ask me. The first chance we’re given, we’ll stop everything until our comrades or strangers have what they need, especially when most do not come from as privileged of a background as we do.”

“I suppose not…” he mumbled with a soft chuckle. “Were Estinien here, he would most likely scoff at my soft-heartedness. Same old Alphinaud. Ever the slave to sentiment.”

“I am simply looking forward to the moment where you may introduce us,” she commented, folding her arms. There was a brief silence before she spoke again, “Well, what do you suggest we do now?”

“For now, ‘tis the best choice to return to Wright,” Alphinaud stated.

Charis followed behind the Eulmoran general in silence. Ever since she found him, the man kept to himself, but it was beginning to kill her. Outside of Hades, she rarely met another soul completely dismissive of present company. “Ran’jit, if you do not mind my curiosity, exactly where are you taking me? I do not believe you answered the question previously. However, I did state the inquiry in regard to your true ambitions with my presence.”

“An inquisitive one, aren’t you?” he responded neutrally. The general remained cautious about the Vii, but given her memories, lacked the awareness of his intentions. Not that it mattered to him. He required an individual who appeared to be far detached from both Eulmore and the Crystarium.

She smiled slightly at the comment, “Yes, I have been labeled as such multiple times. There are many unknowns to me in this situation. I simply desire to have answers, and nothing strikes me more than a mystery.”

“I have garnered as much in our short time,” he stated dryly. He gave her a small glance from his peripheral vision, “To answer your question, as I stated previously, your skills are superior to those within our army, even given your diminished capacity. It will prove useful in our future endeavors. Although we no longer have need to battle with the sin eaters with Lord Vauthry’s control over them, there yet lies an issue which requires my attention.” He returned his attention to the path ahead. “The Oracle must be retrieved at all costs from the miscreant. I will not permit her to perish for another’s foolish beliefs.”

The comment was barely audible, but Charis could hear it clearly. Her curiosity returned, “The…Oracle…? Pray tell, who exactly is the…Oracle?” 

He paused in his tracks and locked fierce eyes with Charis. His gaze was stonier than usual as though she had insulted him, but it did not faze her in the slightest, “The Oracle is none of your concern. It would afford you to pay mind only to statements spoken to you directly lest you desire yourself in yet another predicament.” He promptly continued in his path once again, “As you have astutely heard, there are sinners who desire to obstruct our peace within this sanctuary. Your task is to patrol Eulmore. Should you find any reported miscreants or discover their transgressions prior to the report, you will take the sinner to Lord Vauthry for judgment. Upon the completion of your first task, you are to report to our training grounds and instruct the soldiers beginning promptly at 6th bell each day.”

Ran’jit continued to find this Vii a peculiar individual. Her stark change in personality alarmed him as it was a short period of time. As opposed to the sniveling mess she was upon her imprisoned or during her summons before Lord Vauthry, there lived a certain mischievousness in those eyes of hers and with every word she spoke. He could only surmise her mysterious amnesia appeared to have recovered favorably to a certain extent. He stopped at an open door, leading to a spacious room below. There were dummies, weapons of varying kinds, and other training equipment for a disciplined warrior to sharpen their skills.

Charis passed the general to poke her head into the large room below, only for a sudden gasp to escape her lips. It… interested the Traveler they held such a heavily equipped room for one to polish their skills. She enjoyed a friendly spar with a comrade or trying to get a concept back into control, but this was different to say the least, “My word, this is unbelievable. Is this where I shall be sparring with your people?”

“Yes, the facility is to be used at your discretion even when you are on your relief period,” the general advised. “Do as you wish to prepare them for what is to come as I have other, more important things which requires my attention.”

Charis nodded, her eyes steadily focused on the equipment below. 

“Return to your quarters for the evening as I do not appreciate tardiness,” he stated walking away.

Again, she nodded as a small sigh escaped her lips. The Traveler had much on her mind after seeing this display. She would need to ask Hades upon her return. 

-

Charis arrived in her room to find it completely empty. He was gone, but that was to be expected if he went to find out information regarding her arrival. She only hoped he found something worth his attention. However, now that she was in her room, the day’s events came crashing down on her. A loud yawn escaped her lips, “Perhaps rest shall do me a bit of justice.”

She jumped onto her bed with a soft plop and allowed her body to be comforted by the lush cushions of her bedding. In mere moments, her blinks became longer and longer as she rested her head on the pillow until she was sound asleep.

Meanwhile, in the center of her room, a figure bathed in light proceeded to materialize until he came into full view with distinguishable features. It was a young man, a Hume of modest stature and short brown hair. His armor fitted him perfectly with a large, bloodied axe strapped to his back. His eyes widened in shock as he got a full look at the Warrior of Light, “It’s…it’s you!”

The sudden voice vaguely caught Charis’ attention in her realm between dream and reality, “Is…is that you…Hades?” She closed them again finding relief as the darkness claimed her quickly after.

The man nearly gasped in shock, “She…she can see me?!” He remained in his self-induced stupor. For the first time since he returned home, as a soul without a body, someone could see him!