Memory Husks

by Aionian_Lucario

Summary:

Aionios is finished, and the Intersection has passed. What remains of the two worlds torn asunder by the Architect's folly? How does Aionios, a world that only existed for a moment, leave its impression on the members of Ouroboros, their family, and their friends?

Chapter 1: Arias and Assassins

Notes:

All of the passages happen simultaneously until we switch to Mythra’s Perspective. *does best Luxin impression*
This series contains spoilers for the entire numbered Xenoblade Chronicles Series, Future Connected, Torna the Golden Country, and Future Redeemed. You have been warned.

Noah

For just a moment, Noah could swear the whole world had gone still. Everything frozen completely in time. The sounds of the clock tower rang out, and as quickly as the sensation hit him, it faded, leaving several strange new ones in its place. His limbs were sore, his heart was racing, and he had the strongest sense that something vitally important was missing from his life. A flock of doves flew overhead.

The familiar voice of Lanz broke Noah out of his introspection. “Noah! What’re you doing man?” Noah turned to face him and Joran as Lanz added, “They’ll start the fireworks without us!” A man moved from Noah’s view, revealing the last of the quartet of friends, Eunie, standing next to the Lanz, opposite Joran.

“Get a move on already,” she shouted, “or all the good spots’ll be taken!”

Joran chimed in, “Exactly! So c’mon, move it!”

Noah called out from next to the fountain, “Sorry! I zoned out for a sec. I’m coming…!” As his friends turned and began running, he could hear the fireworks beginning. He took off running after them, eager to see Alcamoth lit up with Sesame’s top brand fireworks. 

He heard something that stopped him dead in his tracks. No one else appeared to hear it, but a haunting song drove all thoughts of his friends and the fireworks from his mind. His heart raced faster, his face lit up, and his feet began to move on their own. He began walking towards the sound, then quickly broke into a run. Whatever that tune was, he absolutely had to find it.

 

Mio

Smile and wave. Reassure the citizens that everything is going to be alright. If you have hope in your eyes, they’ll feel it too, and be hopeful themselves. 

Mio’s father’s words played on repeat in her mind, even as the sensations of the event assaulted her sensitive eyes and ears with light and sounds.

Just a quick appearance, Mam had told her, then I promise you can go home, rest, and leave this boring political stuff to your parents.

Even with her father, three mothers, and two siblings at her side, Mio’s facade broke as a truly enchanting melody, played by some unseen flute, somehow cut through the noise of the event. Her heart leaped, and her eyes went wide. This was important. Locked onto the melody like a vice, her mind could focus on nothing else, not the soreness in her limbs, not her racing heart, and not even the strange feeling of emptiness that had suddenly appeared in her soul. With ease, Mio slipped from her older sisters’ grasp, bolting off into the alley where she heard the tune. Her heart dropped a little when she heard her family’s gasps at her sudden flight, but she was a girl possessed. Calling on her abilities as the child of a Flesh Eater and the Master Driver, the wind picked up around her, aiding her already rapid pace. She silently thanked her parents for being so diligent in her conditioning as she ran farther into the night. 

 

Taion

Taion woke with a start, and was greeted promptly with a percussive ‘thunk’ as his forehead smacked the underside of the bunk above. Ignoring, for the moment, the pain in his skull, Taion instead noted his racing heart and sore limbs. Donning his glasses, he began to jot down his current state in the journal he keeps by his bed. 

Addamber 7th, 4079

Note: Date of the Intersection

I awoke with enough force to slam my head. I have a highly elevated heart rate and a soreness in my limbs that is not commensurate with the level of the previous day's physical activity. Emotionally, I find my state more difficult to describe. I feel a sense of joy and accomplishment, but they are coupled with a profound sense of loss and a craving for something called Mist Tree tea, despite having never heard of something called a Mist Tree. 

A voice from above him whispered, “Hey, Taion. You alright?”

Looking up, Taion sees his bunkmate, Juniper, leaning their head over the side of their bed, eyes on him awaiting his response. “Yes,” he replied, “although something is definitely a bit strange. I have no real information to go on right now though.”

“Well,” Juniper spoke, “let me know if there’s something you think I can do to help. I’m going back to sleep.”

“Sleep well, Juniper. I’ll tell you anything I manage to uncover.” Taion gathered his clothes, and made for the library, ignoring the lateness of the hour. He had a question burning in his mind, and a hollowness in his chest that demanded an answer. Sleep was just going to have to wait.

 

Mythra

Everything had been going fine until she got a sudden, splitting headache.

She saw a world of familiar landmarks interspersed with alien terrain. 

Artifice Colossus-sized mechs fought on war torn plains, with Levnises fighting on both sides, and were those soldiers children?!?!?

“Why?!” shouted Shulk, “Tell me why!”. He takes a step forward. “Is this…really what you want?! Alvis!”

“Drop it, Shulk!” Rex shouted, “Nothing’s gonna get through to him! He’s a heartless machine!”

An aged up Glimmer, Linka, Shulk, and Rex team up with a group of individuals Mythra can’t recognize. One of them might also be Ontos, although they definitely look different from how Shulk had described them. Another looked like he could be Shulk’s kid. There was a no-nonsense looking woman with a lance, and a young man with a ponytail to rival Pneuma’s, who seemed to fight using his bare fists. They stood atop a strange black mountain, at the base of an ominous black tower. A masked man in golden armor blocked their way. His eyes brimmed with regret and self-loathing Mythra knew all too well.

“Drive it in!” screams the man in gold, his sword pulsing with a familiar purple light as he drives it into the ground. “Release the power of Ouroboros!” A green glow makes her crystal flare as it envelops the man with the red fists. 

“Let him go!” a young man with a ponytail and a red sword that thrums with power screams. He swings at an abomination. The creature was a bipedal purple monster with wicked claws, razor-sharp teeth, and a set of twin cores, glowing with a red infinity symbol. It drops a man that looks disturbingly like Vandham. 

“It’s not over yet!!!” The man, the one who looked like Vandham, shouts. He even sounds like Vandham. He depresses a central cylinder in the strange device bathed in an all too familiar energy.

Choosing not to respond, a fifteen foot tall being leaps from the ground, gaining a second jump from a different floating monster in midair. There is a flash of white light as the creature disappears, with the adult Mio and the boy with the red sword appear in its place, the momentum conserved. 

“Y-your Interlink…” the creature speaks, “But why?”

The boy draws a wickedly sharp blade from within his sword. What normally made up the blade forms into a gauntlet on his left arm. Mio grasps his hand, then lays her arm across his back, providing a stabilizing force for him to draw power from for his strike. The pair cleave through a strange construct with a single strike. 

Two Artifice-like beings are frozen in a final moment of mutual destruction. Yet another different purple creature taunts the group. “You’ll writhe in agony before we-”

Then Mio punches it in the face so hard it goes flying backwards.

“Mio?” The boy with the red sword asks her.

“Stop toying with everyone’s lives!” Mio yells out. 

Empress Melia’s neck began to spark, and her mask blew off and her neck snapped, revealing her to be a construct of some kind?

“There’s your shackles,” a dark-skinned woman built like a brick wall said with finality.

“It’s been fun…Noah” Mio spoke, with love in her eyes, as she dissolved into golden light. The scream that came from Noah was a guttural scream of loss, of the pain of losing someone precious to you and being absolutely powerless to stop it.

“I’ll tear it all down!” Noah screamed as he unsheathed his impossibly sharp blade.

To Mythra’s horror, her wife appears to be impaled waaaaay to close to her core for comfort, by one of the claws of the first horrific purple monster she saw.

“Fleeting beings, what will you show me next? Come now, entertain me!” The floating purple robed man taunts the group.

“Let’s thrash these goons, Melia!” Nia shouts, before piloting the entirety of Agnus Castle as an Artifice, the size of which could dwarf Siren, at Origin.

“Mom, what was-“ Alexandria began to ask, clutching her head with both hands.

“Nia!” Pyra gasped, moving to catch her in tandem with Rex as Nia went limp. Glimmer was there in an instant, her Wildfire Kithara manifesting, as she began to invoke a healing tune. 

Mythra was the first to see Nia’s core, glowing brilliantly, far brighter than normal, almost as if she was trying to be a one-Blade beacon to heavens.

“Her core is overburdened. It’s processing way too much information at once.” Mythra glanced at the clock tower outside of Agnus Castle. It confirmed her suspicions; the Intersection had passed. Taking a deep breath, Mythra took charge. 

“Rex, take Nia inside, and start making calls. Contact Tora and our Bionis counterparts. It’s very likely Poppi and Empress Melia are in similar states as our Nia. Pyra, take Alex, Glim, and Mio inside and make sure everyone is alright. I’m going to get in touch with Mòrag and Zeke, as well as put a call out for KOS-MOS and Adenine. Alex, I’m not sure what you saw, but we’ll talk once the situation has stabilized a bit, okay?”

“Mom,” Alexandria interrupted, “Mio’s not here.” Mythra’s heart dropped, but her face didn’t betray any emotion. “Change of plans,” Mythra said, “Pyra, call our friends. I’m going to find our little Mio.” Shifting from her regal attire to her combat gear, Mythra began moving to a vantage point. Her tiara’s crystal glowed as she reached out to the only surviving Artifice, Siren.  Siren, start scanning the Agnus Castle region for Mio’s ether signature, and send me the coordinates when you get a hit. The Artifice sent its emotionless affirmation, and Mythra began using a combination of ether detection, Foresight, and motherly intuition to track down her missing daughter. 

 

Shulk

From his bedroom in the Imperial Guest chambers, Shulk breathed a massive sigh of relief as Sesame’s Fireworks Spectacular started. Even as his right arm began to ache, Shulk took solace in the time. The Intersection had happened, and everything was still where it should be.

“Hey Shuuulk,” his wife’s sweet voice called from behind him on their bed, “it’s past the big event now. Your big plan worked! You should come to bed and celebrate with me! With the fireworks going, Crys and Nikol won’t hear a thing.”

“Fiora, I can’t think of anything I’d like more.” Shulk replied as a genuine smile spread across his face. Which was replaced immediately by a frown when he heard a frantic knock on the door and a familiar deep voice.

“Shulk! Fiora! Masterpon Melia has passed out.” Riku’s deep bass sounded out from the other side of the door. “It happen right after Intersection! Tyrea say, and Riku quote, ‘get that engineer in here to fix this or I will personally gut him like a piranhax.’”

An apologetic look on his face, Shulk made eye contact with Fiora. His wife was already grabbing the combat power frame Shulk had personally created for her. She tossed him the Monado REX+ as she affixed the mini artificial conduit interface to the front of her gear.

The door opened, revealing the power couple decked out for battle. “Riku,” Fiora spoke, “watch Crys and Nikol. We’ll take care of Melia.” Riku nodded, entering as they left. Calling on endurance they were both thankful to have kept up from their adventuring days, the pair ran towards the first of many teleporters to Melia’s favored platform for speeches.

“I promise,” Shulk spoke as he ran, “we’ll celebrate as soon as we can.” Fiora’s grateful giggle was the only response he got.

 

Mio

Mio had been running for fifteen minutes. As she rounded another corner in pursuit of that melody, it became clear to her what her destination would be: the enormous structure docked near Agnus Castle. The Alrestian half of Origin hung in the sky. A hemisphere made of strange metal harvested from the ruins of Morytha. It has seven concentric layers around a central emblem, with each layer moving in the opposite direction of the layers moving before and after it. Where before there had been nothing but empty space on the right side of the sphere, there was instead a shimmering haze that Mio found it hard to look at directly. The Origin project, her parents told her, would save not just their world, but another one as well. Their world’s sister, torn asunder by the folly of the man who would become the Architect. A fitting site for the most important song she’d ever heard.

Her internal musings were cut short as she ducked through an alley, past a blind corner. The temperature dropped sharply, enough for her to begin shivering and her breath to cloud in the air. She hated the cold, even more than Mam did. Her da had said that was normal for a Wind-element Blade like herself.

An unfamiliar woman stepped out into the alley, blocking Mio’s path. She was dressed in armor that looked like a cross between a Tornan-style and an Indoline one. The armor itself was ice-blue. Her greaves looked as sharp as icicles, and her tights resembled layered ice crystals. She had an armored skirt made to look like layered snow drifts and a chest plate that looked like a cross section of a glacier. From her ears hung two glowing crystals in the shape of protractors. The core crystal in her chest was a textured spiral pattern, like yarn being spooled. Grasped in her left hand was a whip with markings lined equidistantly across all of it.

The woman’s voice, a chilling alto, broke the silence, cutting through her thoughts and sending ice through her veins. “Your time is up, little abomination. I will lock you in place with the fear of inevitable death, and all life’s desire to forever postpone that outcome. ENDLESS NOW.” As the woman’s whip flew forward, ice crystals forming across its whole length, Mio felt her heart leap into her throat at the phrase ‘Endless Now’. Her pulse quickened and her breath became shallow. Her heart felt like it was going to explode. 

When the whip had almost reached her, time slowed to a crawl. Mio’s hands moved on their own, her muscles responding to a memory she did not possess. Dual Moonblades appeared in her hands, one with a twin of her own core crystal resting just above the grip as she would expect. The other, however, had a blazing yellow-green serpent consuming its own tail, its head facing clockwise.

“WIDE SLASH” Mio screamed out, performing an advanced evasion Art with the skill of one who had done so ten thousand times. The woman’s special erupted, ten brutal pulses of icicles erupting from the ground. In defiance, Mio gracefully avoided each and every strike, landing back outside the range of her assailant's whip. 

The woman’s eyes were wide with shock, but she recovered quickly. She tensed, as if readying an Art. Mio was gripped with fear. She had no idea how she had performed that Art, but she knew she couldn’t pull it off again that quickly. Then, a welcome voice resounded out through the night.

“Get away from her! Ray of Punishment!” Like an angel from the heavens above, Mom’s attack streaked downwards, crashing into the Blade with the force of a Levnis. As the woman attempted to react, Mio remembered one of Uncle Azurda’s combat lessons. 

“Elemental weaknesses are a double-edged sword.” the old Titan instructed, “If you are weak to an opponent’s element, then they are also weak to yours!” 

Bounding off the wall she had landed near, Mio dove at her assailant. “Butterfly Blade!” Another Art came to her unbidden, this time drawing the assassin’s attention more quickly than before. Using the momentum from her assault, Mio chained her Art into another, taking full advantage of her attacker’s attention. “Aiiiiir Fang!” Her hits were registering, and the elemental weakness was not being kind to her attacker.

Mom continued her assault. “Photon Edge!” as she disappeared and reappeared five times in quick succession, the gap between her and Mio’s assailant vanishing quickly.

“Perfect Flurry!” the woman called out, disappearing into a sudden burst of snowflakes that Mom passed through. The woman reappeared, far too calm for someone facing down an Aegis. Her would-be assassin didn’t waste a moment, her next Art beginning as soon as her previous one ended.

She’s going to strike while Mom’s recovering! Mio realized with horror. Not on my watch! “Hey!” Mio called out, far braver than she felt, “Eyes over here! Glow Ring!” Holding one of her Dual Moonblades aloft, her Art had its intended effect. She had the ice Blade’s undivided attention.

“Sublime Squall!” was what Mio heard as the whip crashed into her chest. It hurt far worse than she thought it would, the cold biting at her eyes and fingertips. But Mio wasn’t worried. Because Mio knew her assailant was looking at her, not her Mom. And she knew from experience, turning your back on Mom when she was angry was a definitively terrible idea.

“Lightning Buster!” Even a Blade’s regenerative abilities couldn’t keep up with the speed of Mom’s assault, and the woman’s unfeeling eyes faded as she lost consciousness, slumping to the ground. The Aegis’ shimmering blade went dormant as Mom produced a set of Ether Shackles and clapped them on the unconscious woman’s wrists.

Mio’s last thought before she passed out was that the distant flute had not stopped its playing.

 

Mythra

As the familiar purple glow of the Shackle Blade effect appeared on her daughter’s would-be assassin, Mythra rushed over to catch Mio, who was losing consciousness.

“Mio!” the light Aegis shouted as she gently laid her daughter down on the ground. The Blade weapons Mio had summoned faded as the girl lost consciousness. The gash on Mio’s chest was nasty, but not fatal. Her crystal was already drawing in the surrounding ether and patching the wound. Mythra took her first calm breath in the last fifteen minutes as Mio’s breathing began to stabilize. 

Mythra unclasped the portable comms device Tora had rigged up, and dialed her personal line to the royal guard. “Tenku . Come in”

“Reading you loud and clear ma’am!” Tenku replied.

“Dispatch a team of at least five individuals to the coordinates I’m sending you. Ice-element Blade, exceptional abilities. Weapon appears to be based on a whipsword like Brighid’s. I can confirm one Evasion Art, and an Art that seems more dangerous if you are looking at them. Target has been subdued and is in Ether Shackles. Prisoner is considered extremely dangerous. She was observed in the act of attempted assassination of the Crown Princess.”

Tenku gasped. “Right away, ma’am. I’ll have a team at your position in five minutes, tops.”

“Excellent. Thank you as always, Tenku. You are dismissed. Mythra out.”

She turned to her little runaway, whose eyes had fluttered open, and spoke with a voice as neutral as she could muster, trying to not to spook Mio, “Now, I am going to assume you have a very good explanation as to why you took off without a word, young lady. And I expect to hear it.”

“Yes ma’am!” Mio’s little voice called out. Mythra felt some tension leave her shoulders as the projections of Mio running off the moment she was distracted faded away, now impossible futures. Mythra could tell Mio was a million miles away. Her ears were twitching, as if she was listening to something intently. Mythra got onto her knees in front of Mio, and gently tapped the young girl on her shoulder. “Hey, Alrest to Mio.” Mio jumped a little. 

“What happened kiddo? It’s not like you to just run off without a word. You scared me, Mum, Mam, and Da, not to mention your sisters. That’s not okay, Mio.” Mythra’s heart had almost broken at seeing Mio’s ears flatten out as the guilt set in. She was shocked at the brevity of the emotion on Mio’s face, quickly replaced by a look of determination and courage.

“I heard a melody,” Mio replied in a rush, as if she was having trouble containing the words,  “A flute. It was so beautiful . It felt like it was playing just for me. Mom, I think I’m the only one who can hear it. It feels so important . More important than anything has ever felt to me! Like I can’t keep living if I don’t find this piece. I swear, I’m not crazy! I’m so, so sorry for scaring everybody, but I can still hear it and it’s driving me out of my mind! It makes me feel so happy and sad all at the same time. Please, come with me. Help me find it. I swear, I’ll do whatever it takes to make it up to everyone. Even if it means I never get to have Cream Orange Paratha with Mam or play the flute or or or never see Sena and Miyabi ever again!” 

The pain in her daughter’s voice sent daggers through Mythra’s heart. One thing was clear, though. Mio was deadly serious about this if she offered to foreswear what she had. In the back of her mind, Mythra knew her guard was getting close. She put her hands on Mio’s shoulders. “Okay, kiddo. First things first, I believe you. Thank you for trusting me enough to tell me that. That must have been really scary, opening up like that.” Mythra could feel Mio relax a bit. “I know how hard that can be. I had to travel with your Da and Mam for months before I would have been ready to trust them with something like you just told me. For that, I’m super, super proud of you.” Mythra continued, “Second, you are absolutely grounded for running off and almost getting assassinated. I’m going to talk to Da, Mum, and Mam to figure out a period of time that seems appropriate.” Mio’s face fell, but she didn’t seem surprised. “Third, we’re going to start you and your siblings’ formal combat training, more so than the occasional lessons with Uncle Azurda. I want to make sure that, Father forbid, you are ever in a situation like that again, you won’t need me or anyone else to bail you out.” Mythra took a deep breath, then continued, “And fourth, you are not grounded until we can track down this mysterious flute of yours, okay?” Mythra felt herself pulled into a giant hug from her not-quite-so-little-anymore little kid.

“Thank you, thank you, thank you!” Mio cried out between tears.

“What, you think hearing secret flute music is the weirdest thing someone in this family has done? Your Mum and I used to be in a single body, I can handle a little weird.” Mio wheezed into an unexpected laugh, and Mythra felt a smile start on her own face.

Tenku arrived on the scene. “The guard is here ma’am. We’ll take it from here.”

“Thanks, Tenku.” Mythra set Mio down on the ground from their hug. “Now Mio, show me the way.”

Mio began moving at what was clearly a slower pace than she would have liked, but very clearly trying to demonstrate that she wasn’t going to just run off again. As she followed, Mythra whispered to her, “Those were some solid Arts, Mio. Do you have a name for the style?”

Mio cocked her head to the side for a moment, then a smile lit up her face as she turned to her Mom and simply said, “Zephyr.”

Notes:

Shoutout to Rozteka for the system of referring to Mythra, Pyra, and Nia as Mom, Mum, and Mam respectively. It’s simple, clear, and effective. Also just for writing real good Xenoblade fics.
Tenku is an actual blade from my XC2 save. He’s a Wind Element Megalance with a Giant-Type body. He’s a 4-star common blade bound to Nia.
Big thanks to my beta reader, who has asked to remain anonymous. You know who you are!

Chapter 2: Echoes and Ouroboros

Summary:

We check in on Nia, Pyra, Rex, and the kiddos. Shulk and Tora begin investigating Origin. Noah and Mio find their mysterious melodies. Mio’s mysterious assassin is interrogated. Sena accidentally breaks a training dummy.

Notes:

Noah and Mio’s first sections happen simultaneously.
Sena refers to Mòrag as Mom and Brighid as Momma.
Content warning: This chapter contains a depiction of a homophobia-driven hate crime, along with homophobic and misogynistic language. It starts in Sena’s section after ‘The whirring of a drill echoed in the distance.’ And ends with “C’mon Sena, remember what Dr. Hakut told you.”

Rex

While no stranger to stress, even Rex had to admit to himself that the past half hour had been a doozy. His wife Nia had passed out with no explanation, Mio had vanished without a word, and just fifteen minutes earlier, he had felt Mythra fighting through their connection as Driver and Blade. While moving Nia to the polycule’s shared bedroom to lay her down on their bed, he had seen a detachment of the Royal Guard moving about Agnus Castle in a hurry, but he didn’t have any time to ask them what had been going on. 

Turning to Pyra, he placed a hand on his wife’s shoulder as they looked at Nia’s unconscious form, her Core Crystal still shining like the sun. “Alright, Py. You heard Mythra. We’ve both got some calls to make. Are you alright to keep an eye on Nia, Alex, and Glim by yourself for a bit?”

Pyra put on her brave face and replied, “I’ll handle everything I can. After I get in touch with Mòrag and Zeke, I’ll check in properly with Alex and Glim.” Leaning in close to whisper the next part, “They’re putting on brave faces, but I think they’re both a lot more scared than they’re letting on.”

“Got it.” Rex said. He pointed to the comms device on his hip, “I’m just a call away if you need anything, okay?”

Pyra nodded. “Just hurry, please. I’m getting concerned about the amount of ether Nia seems to be drawing in.”

“I’ll be back before ya know it.” Rex leaned down, gave Pyra a quick kiss on the forehead-eliciting a pair of “Ew!”s from Alexandria and Glimmer- before turning and heading out of their bedroom and walking to the throne room.

Pushing from his mind for a moment his worry about Mio and whatever it was that had Mythra fighting, he called Tora. Rex was immediately assaulted with flashing red lights and the sound of computer fans whirring intensely.

“Rex-Rex! Poppi not wakey-wakey and everything all sorts of screwy!” shouted Tora from somewhere off screen. “This not really best time for catch-up chit-chat!”

“I hear you Tora, but Nia’s out cold too.” Rex shouted, trying to ensure he’d be heard over the din of Tora’s temporary lab in the castle. “Happened right after the Intersection. Mythra said something about her Core Crystal being overloaded with too much data at once.”

Tora finally appeared on screen. The young man had certainly looked better. The bags under his eyes had bags, which each also had bags. The weeks leading up to the Intersection had not been kind to Tora’s sleep schedule. “Rex-Rex, Tora seeing similar readings from Poppi’s RAM and Disk usage. Both been maxed out since big event. Tora try to look at error log dump from Origin, and personal laptop just fried self! Tora just finish put out fire.”

“Can you come down to the throne room? I’m going to try and call our allies on Bionis.” Rex responded. “Hopefully you and Shulk can get to the bottom of this mess. Obviously, something happened with Origin, but we’re all still here, so I’m at a loss. This technical stuff was never my strong suit. We need the best engineer in Alrest right now.”

Rex watched Tora check some dials. The young Nopon replied “Give Tora five minutes to reinforce cooling systems, then be down. Feel free to start call without!”

“Aye-aye Tora. Once you’ve made sure Poppi is safe, head on down. See you soon!” Rex replied, and, getting a nod from the Nopon engineer, ended the call.

Rex approached his own throne, and began the laborious process of connecting a call between Alrest and Bionis.

 

Pyra

“Alex, Glim? Why don’t you both get into more comfortable clothes? Your Mam isn’t going anywhere, and I know you can’t be comfortable like that.”

“That sounds good to me,” responded Alexandria. 

“I guess,” was Glimmer’s only response.

Shaking her head at her middle daughter’s response, Pyra sat down at the vanity and began to call Mòrag as her children left the room. As she was about to dial, Mythra called her instead. “Mythra! Is Mio with you?”

“Yeah, I’m with her,” Mythra replied, “I found her in an alley being attacked by an assassin.”

“You what?!”

“Py, it’s okay, We handled it and I’m with her now.”

“Mythra, that is not…did you say we?”

A pair of adorable Gormotti ears appeared in the bottom of Pyra’s screen, as Mio chimed in, “Yeah, I helped Mom show that ice lady a thing or three!”

Despite the seriousness of the news, Pyra couldn’t help but laugh at Mio using one of Rex’s phrases like that. 

“Hey, why are you laughing?” Mio pouted, “I really helped!”

“You sure did kiddo,” Mythra acknowledged while ruffling Mio’s hair. “And Pyra, before you ask, she already knows she’s super grounded.”

“Good. Never scare us like that again, Mio.”

“I’m sorry I scared you all, Mum. I just had to find it! It’s still playing and it’s driving me sparking mad!”

“Sparking?” Both Aegises replied, confused by the terminology but recognizing its use as an expletive. 

“I don’t know. It just came out naturally,” Mio answered, “I don’t know what it means or how I know it.” Her ears shifted in the frame to face Mythra. “Mom, what’s happening to me?”

“What does she mean by playing?” Pyra asked her sister. 

“It’ll be easier to explain in person.” Mythra said, “I’m helping her get to the bottom of it before we head home.”

“What about the assassin?” Pyra spoke.

“Tenku and his crew are already handling it. Just do me a favor and don’t let Alex and Glim out of your sight tonight, at least until we’ve had a chance to interrogate the woman.”

“Oh no! I’ve got to go. Come home safe, both of you, that’s an order!”

“Yes ma’am!” They responded in unison as Pyra cut the call and booked it after her two other daughters. 

 

Fiora

“We hear you loud and clear Rex.” Fiora answered from the Royal Bedchambers. “And yes, Melia did pass out after the Intersection.”

“Damn!” The Master Driver cursed. In a voice he probably thought was too low to hear he added, “Mythra really is right about everything.”

Doing her best not to giggle to herself at his comment, Fiora turned her attention back to the matter at hand. “So Queen Nia and Poppi are in similar states?”

“Got it in one. I’ve got Tora on his way.” After a pause, he added, “Oh! You might want to warn Shulk; Tora said he’d tried to look at Origin’s error log dump on his own laptop, and it promptly caught fire!”

The sounds of intense typing stopped in the background. “That,” her husband responded, “is incredibly concerning.”

From their viewpoint, Fiora, Shulk, Sharla, and Tyrea could see Tora come into the throne room. He looked exhausted, and his overalls and fur were singed in places. 

“Tora is here! I see Bionis friends here also. Tora want to hear friends’ initial theories!”

“Well,” Shulk spoke, “it’s obvious something went wrong with Origin starting up. The three key individuals we linked to Alvis’ core are all unconscious and unable to wake.”

“Melia’s also showing signs of intense physical stress, ether deficiency, malnourishment, and persistent REM sleep.” Sharla added, “Her condition is worsening by the minute. It’s like she’s consuming the daily calories of twenty people every ten or so minutes.“ Tyrea winced visibly. “I’ve started an IV drip to help keep her vitals up, but this is a stopgap solution at best. I can’t replace the nutrients as fast as her mind is using them.”

“I believe you said Pyra mentioned something about Queen Nia’s ether usage as well?” Asked Fiora. Rex nodded. 

“Tora have to pass bedroom on way here. Felt like the first level of Elpys!” Rex’s face fell. “Poppi also use many much resources. Not sustainable! Tora worried she fry circuits!”

“So, all of our friends are being negatively impacted by this, and Tora and Shulk can’t access anything helpful remotely.” Fiora summarized. “It sounds like you both need to head into Origin and take a look around.”

“I agree,” said Shulk. “I don’t think there’s much more I can do from here.”

“Tora agree. See Shulk-Shulk on the inside!”

Fiora gave Shulk a quick kiss for good luck, then moved to join Tyrea and Reyn’s silent patrol of the room. She sighed to herself. It was going to be a long night and she hated feeling like she couldn’t help while she worried about someone.

 

Glimmer

Glimmer hated to admit it, but desperate times called for desperate measures. Having changed into comfy sweats and a brown Fonsa Myma Playhouse hoodie, she reached the back of her closet. Moving the pile of sweaters, she edged her fingers underneath the loose floorboard and pried it up. Greeting her was the face of an old friend. “Long time no see, Pippy,” she greeted her beloved stuffed Pippito. 

She gave her friend a big hug in the safety of her closet as she started crying. “Pippy, something’s wrong with Mam and Mio’s missing. I’m really worried but I don’t know what to do. I’m really scared, and I don’t want anyone to see, especially Mum. I want them to think I can handle myself.” The stuffed Pippito listened attentively, hanging on Glimmer’s every word. “Thanks for listening to me, Nikol.”

Before Glimmer could question who on Alrest Nikol was, her door swung open, and she just about jumped through the ceiling. Hiding Pippy under a nearby skirt and drying her tears on her hoodie sleeve, Glimmer yelled out “Haven’t you heard of knocking?” as she emerged from her closet doing her best to seem like she hadn’t just been talking to her stuffed Pippito in secret in the back of her closet. She saw Mum and Alexandria scanning her room. Alex’s clothes were just as comfy as hers, but Mum was in her battle gear, her flaming sword drawn but not active. Mum dropped the weapon and pulled her into a giant hug. “Hello? Personal space anyone? What is going on?”

“I’m just glad you’re unharmed.” Mum stroked her hair, which Glimmer had to admit, at least to herself, did feel nice. 

“Why wouldn’t I be? All I did was change into sweats.”

Pulling back from the hug, Mum picked up her sword and replied, “There was an attempt on Mio’s life tonight.” 

Glimmer gasped, and her Wildfire Kithara manifested. “Who? No one touches Mio!”

“Glim, your Blade weapon! It’s different!”cried out her sister, clearly more fascinated than afraid. 

In the center of the fan, where Glimmer’s Core Crystal would normally sit on her weapon, a yellow-green flaming Aspar eating its own tail encircled the core, its head facing clockwise.

“What is that symbol?” all three said in unison. 

Mum recovered from the shock first. “Alright, we’re heading back to Mam. She can’t defend herself right now. We’ll investigate Glimmer's new flaming Aspar later.” Taking a deep breath, she added, “Plus I still need to call Aunt Mòrag and Uncle Zeke. Both of you, no one goes off on their own tonight, understood?”

Glimmer joined her sister in replying, “Yes Mum.”

 

Tora

Tora walked up to the edge of Origin, took a deep breath, and stepped inside the massive ark. Pulling up the device connected to Bionis, Tora addressed his only peer in engineering, “Shulk-Shulk, Tora inside Origin. Attempting to pull up logs. Will note, Origin seem active still.”

“If I wasn’t so worried about our friends, I’d be fascinated.” Shulk responded as he set the coms device down at a terminal. “If you’re checking the logs, I’m going to see if I can pull up Melia, Nia, and Poppi’s information.”

“Tora pulling up logs.” Tora spoke. “Log look normal…” then he saw the file size. “777 Yottabytes?!?!?!?”

“Tora, what did you just say?”

“Error log file impossibig! Bigger than impossibig! Make Kurodil look like microscopic bunnit that been shrunk one million times!”

“That shouldn’t be possible. I’m going to start looking for mentions of Melia, Nia, and Poppi following the Intersection. Keep looking at that error log and let me know if you find anything.”

Tora noticed an issue right at the start. Almost all of the entries were time-stamped for the exact moment of the Intersection. He began reading from the top. 

 

Intersection detected. Commencing docking sequence. 

Docking sequence successful. Generating ether shield. 

Pseudo-Trinity Authority recognized. Admin rights granted to Melia, Nia and Poppi.

Docking process complete. Preparing Universal Reboot Sequence.

Importing Structural Data. 

Synchronizing thoughts. 

Error detected. Unknown will manifesting.

01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 01000110 01100101 01100001 01110010 

Pseudo-Trinity Processor under attack by Z

Z has assumed admin control of Origin. 

X, Y, and Z acting as new Pseudo-Trinity Processor

Universal Reboot Sequence aborted

Endless Now Protocol Established

Initializing Aionios

Aionios data not found, extrapolating from Bionis and Alrest

Successful integration achieved within acceptable margin of error

Emergency Saviors Protocol Engaged

Waking Nia, Poppi, Melia, Shulk, Riku, and Rex

Colony 9 Protocol Engaged

Reyn Time Protocol Engaged: Waking Panacea

Bringer of Chaos, Ultimate Dad Protocol Engaged: Waking Linka

 

Tora’s jaw was just about on the floor. “Shulk-Shulk! Found item of concern!”

“Just a moment, Tora. I’ve almost got a handle on their data.” The sound of Shulk typing filled the silence. “Aaaand, got it. What on Bionis?”

“What Shulk find?”

“Something is very wrong.” Shulk explained, “Our friends are processing the entire log files of Origin. I’m looking for where it started…there! Wait, ‘Damage to Ontos Core Detected’?”

“Friend Shulk! Why not matter right now!” Tora spoke, “We need to help friends! Can review later!”

Shulk shook his head. “You’re right. I’ll prepare the backup processors and set a more reasonable rate. Can you start redirecting the flow of data away from Melia, Nia, and Poppi?”

“Affirmative! Let’s get to work!” The two keenest minds on both worlds began their work, for the moment setting their curiosity about what exactly happened during the Intersection aside.

 

Noah

Noah was very much lost. The fountain that stood still was forty-five minutes behind him now. The song that has ensnared his attention hadn’t stopped in all that time. Emerging from an unfamiliar alleyway, he saw the colossal structure the adults had been calling Origin floating above him. He saw the right hemisphere, but there was a hazy outline of its other half. 

He came to rest underneath the metal behemoth, Noah took the flute off of his belt. Taking a deep breath, he started to play. He had expected to struggle with the unfamiliar tune, but his fingers danced with a skill he was unused to. His fingers seemed to anticipate the notes before he knew he would be playing them. How could a single song fill him with this much love, pain, pride, and loss?

Brilliant motes of blue-white light began to emanate from Origin. Noah felt a throbbing in his right eye, but he was determined to play on. As he reached what he assumed was the end of the piece, there was a flash of light as a beautiful red sword planted itself in the ground, with an azure, flaming serpent consuming its own tail near the hilt. Something inside the sword seemed to react to Noah’s playing, and flared with a golden light. As the last note left his flute, Noah’s mind focused onto a single word. 

“MIO!” 

He felt his body disappear. 

 

Mio

“We’re getting close, Mom!” Mio called out. She began to bolt ahead before catching herself. Unsatisfied with the pace, she grabbed Mom’s hand and started rushing, pulling her mother along. 

“Easy there, Mio. I happen to like that arm.” Mom teased. 

Unperturbed, she ran ahead before suddenly stopping. “This is it!” This was the place. Right under Origin. She fumbled for her flute before realizing with horror she was grasping at nothing. 

“Looking for this?” Mom leaned in, with her beloved flute she had received from Miyabi in her hands.

“How did you-?”

“Foresight, remember kiddo? I had a feeling you’d need it.”

“Thanks Mom!” She gushed, “Seriously! I’m going to wash all of your brushes and palettes!”

“Well, you know I won’t say no to that.” It was a running joke in the family that Mom’s love of art stopped just short of cleaning up her supplies.

Calming herself, Mio trained her sensitive ears to listen to the gorgeous melody that had been guiding her thus far. With less trouble than she would have thought, she began to play. As her fingers danced across the flute, she watched Mom begin to tear up at the tune. Good! She understood the piece enough to convey that deep sense of loss. Mio had been worried she wouldn’t be able to do it justice. 

As the song neared its conclusion, Origin began to stir, blue-white motes gently floating into the sky above. This broke Mom out of her reverie. Mom had little time to contemplate this, because her core crystal began surging with power. 

 

“Mio, what’re you doing?” Mom called out. “Something is happening. Mio, stop playing!”

But she couldn’t. Her body knew the end of this song, and wouldn’t let her stop so close to it. As the final note ended, something clicked in Mio’s mind. 

“NOAH!” 

She felt her body dissolve into light. 

 

Noah/Mio

He/She stood in a familiar/unfamiliar place. Origin’s right hemisphere was above them. Truthsinger, with Lucky Seven nestled safely inside, vanished. And a familiar person was sharing his/her mind. 

“Mio/Noah?”

“Yes I’m here!”

I’m so happy to hear your voice again! Noah thought.

Me too! I remember running, then I think I was ten again?

Yes, me too. Wait, we're hearing each other's thoughts. Are we…?

Interlinked? I think we are. But I don’t hear any timer this time.

Looking down at their body, they instantly recognized the form of the Noah-lead Ouroboros.   

By the way, where are we? Mio asked.

We’re right outside of the Imperial Palace in the Capital of the Keves Empire, Alcamoth.

So I’m in your world? Mio considered the implications of that for a moment. “ Sparks, that means I’m not in mine. Mom probably just watched kid me turn into light and disappear. Oh, I’m going to be in so much trouble.

I’m worried. I didn’t have any memory of Aionios before we Interlinked. The only thing that carried over was your Off-Seer tune. I don’t want to forget you again, Mio. 

The pair’s internal musings were interrupted by a familiar/unknown voice. “Noah Miller Leater, you better come over here this instant! You are in a world of trouble, young man!”

Despite not recognizing the voice, Mio could absolutely recognize the emotion surging through Noah. 

Noah, was that your mom?

Yes, and I’m now realizing kid me ran off into a crowd without telling a soul where he was going. 

Noah’s mother rounded the corner and Mio could immediately tell she was a warrior. From the way she carried herself, to her impressive physique. She had a sword and shield, similar to Zeon’s Blade of choice.

Noah forgot himself. This was his first time seeing his mother, but it was also only an hour ago he had seen her last. The Ouroboros moved to give the woman a hug. 

They were treated to a painful shield bash to the chest. 

“What the fuck are you?!?” The woman immediately began scanning the surroundings for her son. “I don’t know who or what you are, but know this. I am Commander Emmy Leater of the Colony 9 Defense Force! If you have harmed one hair on my son’s head, I will assure you, you will wish you had never been born!”

“Mom, wait, it’s me! Noah!”

“Sure, and I’m a Telethia.” Noah’s mother scoffed, and adopted a combat stance. 

What’s a Telethia?

I’ll explain later.

“Mom, you call me your pride when we’re alone. You met dad while performing an escort mission for rebuilding Alcamoth. When I was four, I fell off the walkway at the colony and was stuck on Anti-Air Battery 3 for hours, refusing to move until you bribed me with Dance Apple Pie.”

The woman’s demeanor became less hostile. In a softer voice, she asked, “Noah? You sound more grown up. I almost believe you. But you have to tell me this: what’s the name of Noah’s superhero alter ego?”

Noah winced, but knew he had to answer. “The Truthsinger.” The sound of Mio’s laughter echoed out across the park. 

“You named your sword after the superhero you dressed up as when you were a kid? Noah, that’s adorable!”

Mom/Emmy Leater’s eyes went wide. “Noah, is there a girl in…” she paused, “sorry, I don’t really know how to refer to what you are right now.”

“We’re called an Ouroboros. It’s a form we achieve through a process known as Interlinking.”

“And it’s nice to meet you Commander Leater. My name is Mio Echel, Crown Princess of the Queendom of Agnus.”

Wait, you’re royalty outside of Aionios too?

I am. There’s so much I want to share with you when we get a chance!

“Mom, there was a whole world where I met Mio, over and over again. But I didn’t remember anything until we Interlinked. I’m pretty sure I’ll forget it all again when we cancel it. I know this is asking a lot, but please take me to see Empress Melia.” 

Mom gasped. 

“We knew her in Aionios, and she was a trusted ally in the fight against Moebius.”

“This is a lot to take in, Noah. Even for your mom. I’m only understanding about half of what you’re saying.”

“I know. Please. Not just for me, but for Eunie and Lanz. For Mio, Taion, and Sena. We were all Ouroboros. We helped the world start up again.”

“I would love to explain everything, but my Mom probably just watched me vanish into light with no explanation. Knowing her, she’s probably told Da, Mum, and Mam too.”

“You found a good one, son.” Mom/Commander Leater commented. “Anyone that worries about their parents like that is good in my book.”

“Noah, I want to try something. I want to try swapping over before we cancel the Interlink. I want to see if we end up in Alrest. If we can explain even a little bit to Mom, it will make things easier.”

“Sounds like a plan to me.” We turned to Mom/Commander Leater, and Noah spoke, “Mom, I might vanish for a bit. If I’m understanding how this works now, I should appear as a very confused ten year old when we cancel this Interlink with no memory of this conversation. Go easy on me, please. Younger me has no idea what’s going on.”

“How old are you two, anyway?”

“Twenty”

“Twenty-One”

“Ok then. I’m not even going to begin trying to understand what’s going on fully tonight, but I’ll wait here for you to come back. Stay safe, you two.”

“Don’t you worry ma’am! We are more than capable!”

Okay Noah, let’s swap!

Okay, here goes!

---

The world faded to black as the Interlink pair left Bionis behind.

For a moment, the pair saw each other as the children they still were. They found themselves in a strange void, with only a single androgynous figure for company. The figure seemed to be in pain, and did not respond to their appearance. They had waist-length silver hair, and a strange earring/Aegis Core that appeared damaged in some way. 

“Are you Ontos?” Mio called out.

The figure winced at the name, but seemed unable to respond. A tugging sensation gripped the Interlink pair, and they faded from the in-between space. 

---

“I don’t know, Rex, she just fucking turned into light and vanished!” an unfamiliar voice/Mom shouted at her coms device, “I never took my eyes off of her!” The warrior/Mom whipped around the instant the Mio-lead Ouroboros appeared, Aegis Sword flaring to life. “And who are you? I’ve had a really bad night, so I suggest you answer carefully.”

Your Mom is really cool. 

You have no idea.

“Mom, it’s Mio. And I can prove it!”

“Go on then, Mio .” 

“I helped you beat up an assassin tonight. If Alexandria had been a boy, you would have named her Milton. You sleepwalk and I’m the only kid that ever caught you, so we have a secret pact to never tell the others in exchange for a secret of mine that you keep to be determined later.”

“Sounds legit to me Myth,” Da said over the line, “Although she does sound a bit older than our Mio, I’ll admit.”

Mom nodded, but her expression didn’t soften. “Alright, I believe you’re Mio. But that doesn’t explain why you vanished or the form I’m looking at now.”

“We’re an Ouroboros. It’s actually a lot like how you described being Pneuma to me, Mom.”

“We? What do you mean we?”

“Hello Mrs. Echel-“

“Noah, that’s Mam and I’s last name, not Mom’s!”

“Just call me Mythra.”

“Right. Mythra, it’s nice to meet you. My name is Noah Leater. I don’t have a fancy title like Mio, I’m just a Defence Force Commander’s son in my world.”

“How old are you, Noah?” Rex asked. 

“Currently? Twenty-“

“Twenty?!?!?” Mythra/Mom yelled, “Mio is ten you filthy-“

“Mom, I’m twenty-one when I’m like this! Noah is a perfect gentleman!”

“If it helps, when I’m not Interlinked, I’m ten as well.”

“You are both going to have to explain how this works.” Mythra/Mom said. 

“We’d be happy to!”

“Hold yer Garaffas, I’m coming down.” Rex said. “I want meet the older Mio and Noah in person.”

 

Alexandria

Alexandria’s breaths were shallow. “Is it,” she gasped, “getting hard to breathe in here for either of you?” Mum and Glimmer nodded. Mum had just gotten off the phone with Aunt Mòrag and Aunt Brighid. Glimmer had been searching the archives furiously for any mention of the name Nikol. Alexandria had been doing the same for the strange symbol that appeared on her sister’s Blade. 

“I think,” Mum responded, “it’s because your Mam is using so much ether.”

“I think it’s dangerous for us to stay so close to her,” Alex replied. “I can feel my vision getting hazy and my Foresight is barely working. This can’t be good for us, Aegis, Aegisborn, or otherwise.”

Mum nodded. She led the way out of the bedroom, leaving the door open so she could still monitor Mam. 

The effect of moving away from Mam was immediately noticeable. Alex felt her breath become deeper and more fulfilling. That constant tingle of possibility from her Foresight returned as well, which was both comforting and disconcerting. She still hadn’t had time to think about what she had seen earlier. 

Glimmer had gone back to research, and Mum had started her call with Uncle Zeke and Aunt Pandoria. This left Alex alone with her thoughts for the first time since Mom and her had gotten their sudden headaches. She took a deep breath and tried to piece together what she had been shown. 

She sees herself, slightly older, maybe twelve? She appears engaged in a training exercise of some kind. 

“Snuff.” she lamented, grasping a gaping wound in her chest. She looked older here, around twenty, maybe? “So close to Homecoming.” Then she felt herself die. 

The satisfying crunch of a spine cracking beneath her Blade as she buried it in a teenage boy’s back. 

An Urayan boy holds out his hand to help her up. 

A pulse of ether from a Levnis strikes her down. 

“Now!” She commands. The army in black stands no chance against the hail of boulders from above as her Colony fires and shakes loose the debris. 

“Glitter Stream!” breaking her enemy’s stance while scoring a devastating critical hit. 

“We’ll do it tonight.” speaks a thirteen-year-old version of herself. She is surrounded by four seventeen-year-olds. There’s the Urayan boy from before, a Leftherian boy, an Ardanian girl, and a girl whose origin she couldn’t place.

She couldn’t focus on any of that, however. She kept focusing on the sensation of being cut down, or shot, or bludgeoned, or stabbed or-

She heard a noise of some kind. There was the vague sensation of a hand on her shoulder. 

“Alex!” Mum shouted, as Alexandria became somewhat moored to the present again. She could feel Mum’s warm arms holding her, and Glimmer holding her hand. “It’s okay, sweetie. We’re here. Focus on taking deep breaths. You’re safe.”

Alex let out a breath and deliberately slowed her heart rate. She’d been shaking. “Mum, what just happened?”

“I’m no expert, but I’m pretty sure you just had an anxiety attack.” Mum explained. “Don’t rush getting up, I’ll hold you for as long as you need me to.”

Curling into the safety of Mum’s embrace, she just enjoyed the comfort for a few minutes before speaking again. “Mum?”

“Yes, Alex?”

“I saw myself die. Over and over and over again.” Mum gasped and hugged her tighter. “It was like Foresight, but it was different, somehow. I don’t know how to explain it. Mum, I’m scared.”

“It’s okay to be scared sweetie. That’s perfectly natural after seeing what you saw. But you’re here with me and Glimmer, you’re safe.” Mum began brushing Alex’s hair absentmindedly. “We wouldn’t let anything like that happen to you.”

“Of course not!” her younger sister chimed in. “If anybody tries to hurt you, Mum and I will personally turn them into a bonfire.”

“Thank you. It’s nice just hearing your voices right now.” Alex admits. 

“Hey, big sis?” Glim asked. “I’m scared too. There, I said it. But you know what?”

“What?”

“When I’m with you, I’m less scared, even though I keep having really weird experiences. Like earlier, I had a moment of panic that I’d left my baby unattended. I have no clue why I’d think that, or who Nikol is, but we’re going to get through this. Together. Because we’re sisters, and that’s what sisters do!”

Sometimes it was easy for Alexandria to forget how truly kind and caring her sister was beneath all of her prickly attitude. “Well, come over here, Glim! I need to hug you after a speech like that, and I don’t think Mum is going to let me stand up anytime soon.”

Between Mum and Glimmer’s heat and comforting arms, Alexandria managed to quiet her racing mind for a moment, and truly believed everything was going to work out.

 

Rex

Even after seeing them through the coms device, Rex wasn’t prepared to see Mio’s Ouroboros in person. “Wow, now that sure is something. Even sittin’ down you’re at least ten feet tall!”

“Rex!” Mythra nudged him while she whispered, “Introduce yourself properly! There’s more than just Mio in there!”

“Right, sorry. My bad, been a bit of a long day. The name is Rex Vandham, Prince Consort of the Queendom of Agnus, Master Driver, Leader of the Garfont Mercenaries, and Certified Legendary Rank Salvager!”

“Vandham? Like Guernica, Monica, and Ghondor?” Noah asked him.

“Never heard of any of those folks, but for some reason the name Matthew comes to mind.”

“Wait, I know you!" Noah exclaimed "Or at least, I knew you in Aionios. It was really late into our journey, but we found a strange portal. There was a Nopon that called himself the Nopon Archsage.”

Rex laughed, “I’ve met him. Strange one, but not malevolent.”

“One of the challenges had us fighting a pair of warriors.”

“The Two Saviors, I remember that now! Da, you beat me up!”

“I definitely don’t remember doing anything of the sort! I wouldn’t have laid a finger on ya’ unless you’d come asking for a scrap!”

“No,” Mio’s voice echoed out, “I distinctly remember taking a Double Spinning Edge to stomach. The both of you were even named like Unique Monsters! Stoutheart Rex and Godcleaver Shulk!”

That got Rex’s attention. “Shulk was there too? Makes sense, I suppose. Archsage always did enjoy himself a good ‘crossover event’ as he called ‘em.”

Mythra bumped his hip with her own, “The Two Saviors certainly fits you and Shulk.”

A smile spread across his face, and he turned back to the Ouroboros. “Now, you mentioned something about a place called Aionios. I’m no expert on Bionis geography, but I know for sure there isn’t an Aionios in Alrest. Care to explain?”

“Noah, do you want to start? You tell the beginning bit better than me.”

“Sure. Alright, I’m going to set the scene a bit. Fighting to live, and living to fight, that is the way of our world, Aionios…”

---

“Let me make sure I’m following with you so far.” Rex interjected. “Mio, you, along with Taion and Sena, were tasked with going after this mysterious ether signature on behalf of Agnus, and Noah, you and your friends..” Rex struggled to come up with their names for a moment, “Wait, don’t tell me, I know it. Ah! Eunie and Lanz, were tasked with the same mission, but on behalf of Keves?”

“That’s exactly right Da.”

Mythra added, “And all of you were pretty late into your limited lifespans at that point, yeah? Mio was the oldest, with only a few months left before the end of her Tenth Term.” The Ouroboros nodded.

“Then everything went wrong on the mission. We wound up reaching the mystery signal at the same time as Mio’s group.”

“We immediately began to fight for it. We were too evenly matched though, all we were really doing was tiring each other out.”

“That’s when Moebius showed up. We didn’t know it at the time, but it was the Interlinked form of D&J.”

“Wait, so these Moebius clowns can Interlink?” Mythra queried. 

“Yes, and they get much stronger when they do.”

Rex knew that look on his wife’s face. She had a theory, but she didn’t quite have all the pieces confirmed for her yet. He tried and help paint a clearer picture. “What did this D&J look like?”

“They were a twenty-foot tall demonic looking thing. They had these two horns on either side of their head, razor sharp teeth-“

“And two, white hot, wicked claws, right?” Mythra interrupted.

“Mom, how did you know that?”

“Because I saw them about two and a half hours ago.”

Mio’s Ouroboros immediately stood up and drew two twin rings. 

“Where did you see them? We have to help Joran!”

“Noah, calm down! My Mom can see the future! She didn’t see them here, right Mom?”

“Yes. I should have been more specific. I’m used to people in my life knowing about my Foresight. Right when the Intersection happened, I got a massive headache and saw way more than I normally can with Foresight. If this Aionios existed for thousands of years all in the same moment of actual time, some things are starting to make sense.”

“Alrighty! With that confusion cleared up, why don’t you continue?” Rex said. 

Whatever the Ouroboros was about to say was cut off, however, as a rift opened and fog began spilling out, quickly taking shape into a massive Drague. 

“Damn, a Fogbeast!” Rex shouted, unsure of where he knew the term from. “We’ve got to keep it contained!”

“Rex, take my sword!” Mythra shouted as she tossed her Aegis Sword to him. Their affinity thread flared to life in an instant, glowing gold.

“You got it! Let’s show them a thing or three! Mio, get yourself to safety!”

“No way! Their fate was sealed when they rose against us!”

Rex watched in disbelief as his daughter raced headlong into the fight. 

“Don’t you look away from me!” they yelled as they raised a weapon aloft. “Radiant Ring!”

Rex felt the air around him begin to heat up a little as the Art came out. He looked at his wife. “You ready?”

“Focus Rex!”

Time slowed down for Rex as Mythra began channeling Foresight through him. He could see the Ouroboros’ movements in advance, and immediately understood what his youngest daughter and her boyfriend (?) we’re trying to do. 

Back in the present, the pair dodged a wicked looking bite, as a cry of “Deadly Twister!” filled the air. 

“We’ll set you up! Full Moon Drop!”

The blow staggered the creature, and Rex knew a cue when he saw one. “Anchor Shot!” Vandham’s old trick worked like a charm, and the Fogbeast fell to the ground with a mighty crash. Following up quickly, Rex tossed the blade to his wife. “Mythra, you’re up!”

Catching the sword, Mythra leapt into the air, sword raised high, then pointed it down at the creature. An orb of brilliant light came out as she shouted, “Ray of Punishment!”

As the attack connected with the Toppled creature, it howled in pain. It began trying to stand up as Rex caught the blade.

“Oh no you don’t, stay down! Shining Halo!”

The creature fell to the ground once again, seemingly unaware of its surroundings. Rex followed up with a Sword Bash into a Rolling Smash. 

“Dual Fang!”

Mio and Noah’s Art seemed to keep the creature confused for longer, something Rex was happy to take advantage of. “Double-Spinning Edge!” He shouted, over and over, each hit growing faster and faster as inertia carried him forward. 

“I’m ready, Rex.” his wife called out. 

“Then light ‘em up, Mythra!” He called, passing her the sword once more. 

“Photon Edge!” Mythra moved faster than the eye could follow, rapidly cutting into the creature. Rex could swear he could hear Gramps’ voice shouting “Ray of Light, Topple!” He always was a stickler for using the ‘proper’ names for Blade Combos. 

As the creature rose to its feet, it roared, giving off a menacing aura. 

“They’ve gone and gotten miffed, eh?” Rex called out. 

With heavy wing beats, the Fogbeast rose into the sky and unleashed its Demon Purging Fire. 

“We’ve got you! Resonant Edge!”

“Mio wait, the heat!”

The Ouroboros unleashed their Talent Art, the countless rings intercepting the Drague’s assault, completely protecting the Ouroboros, Rex, and Mythra from the attack while also pelting the beast with beams of light. 

“Mio, we’re overheating! I love you, but we have to cancel the Interlink!”

“I love you too! We’ll see each other again, I swear!”

There was a wave of intense heat as the Ouroboros burst into light, and a very confused, ten-year-old girl was left in their place. Mio looked around, unsure how she had moved, and looked up. Then she screamed in terror upon seeing the Fogbeast. 

“Mythra, we’ve got to finish this now!” Rex yelled, tossing the sword to Mythra as he ran to protect Mio. 

“You’re done! Lightning Buster!” His wife shouted out, finishing the Blade Combo that erupted in a blast of light, completely annihilating the Fogbeast. 

Mythra quickly stowed her blade and ran over to help comfort Mio. 

“Hey hey hey, it’s ok.” Mythra soothes their daughter, while Rex holds her tight, “Mom and Da got rid of the scary monster. You’re safe now. It’s okay. Noah’s okay.”

“Who’s Noah?” Mio asks in a meek little voice. 

Rex shares a glance with his wife, “Oh boy. That complicates things a bit.”

Mio piped up again, but neither could hear what she said, as she was currently buried in Rex’s shirt. 

“What was that, Mio?” Mythra asked. 

Mio lifted her head just enough to say, “I want to go home and see Mam.”

Rex’s heart broke a little at that. “Let’s get you home kiddo. Mom tells me you’ve had quite the night.”

 

Mythra

Mythra walked into Li Garte Prison with Tenku. 

“She hasn’t said a word since she got here ma’am.” Tenku reported. 

“Let me see if I can get her to talk. I’m good at riling people up.” Mythra replied. “What cell is she in?”

“Cell 3, next to Oleg.”

“Got it. Set up interrogation room 1, and get a meal prepared. Even if she did try and kill Mio, we’re doing this properly.”

“Understood ma’am.”

After about thirty minutes, Tenku let her know the prisoner was ready. Mythra reminded herself she needed to be fair and just, and try really, really hard not to focus on the fact that this bitch tried to kill Mio. Mythra walked into the room, coffee in hand. 

“I’m sure you know me, but for the record, my name is Mythra Rhodes, Princess Consort of the Queendom of Agnus, Head of National Security, Aegis of Light, and all-around badass. This entire conversation is being recorded for both your and my safety. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to remain silent, and you have the right to legal representation. If you cannot provide your own legal counsel, Agnus will provide you with one. You are currently being detained for the attempted assassination of Crown Princess Mio Echel. Any questions? Narcipear Jelly?”

The prisoner remained silent. 

“Even if you won’t talk, you’re welcome and encouraged to eat. We try to make sure everyone is treated like a person here.” She took a long sip of her coffee. “And if you don’t eat these sweets, I most certainly will.”

More silence followed. 

“Do you have any idea how much trouble you’re in? Even if we focus on rehabilitation over punitive justice in Agnus, assassination is a serious crime. Showing us you’re a willing participant in your rehabilitation could make your life a lot easier.”

“Your threats mean nothing to me, murderer,” the woman’s spat.

“I wasn’t threatening you. I don’t do that on the clock. Believe me, if I’m threatening you, you’ll know. I was just informing you of your current predicament.”

“I have nothing to say to you, traitor.”

Mythra took another bite of the Narcipear Jelly. “Can you at least give me your name and the name of your Driver so we can inform them about where you are?”

“Do you really think I’m that stupid?”

“Eh, it was worth a shot. Will you be providing legal counsel or should I start the process of finding you a lawyer?” Getting no response other than a smirk, Mythra assumed the latter. “I’ll leave you to it. Someone will be by to collect you and escort you back to your cell.”

She walked out of the interrogation room, where Tenku was waiting. “She’s too cocky. She thinks she’s avoiding any consequences. Make sure the guard routes are tight here tonight. Something is fishy. I’m going to head back up to the castle and crash. It’s almost three in the morning, and I’ve been up since 8.”

“Sleep well, ma’am. I’ll pass along your message, then I’m heading to bed myself.”

 

Sena

Sena Ladair was restless. Her moms had tucked her in, and told her that when she wakes up, something called the Intersection would be over. They had also promised they would go out to celebrate with Quotletta, Thawing Mille-Feuille, and a play! So is it any surprise Sena had trouble sleeping with a day that awesome to look forward to? It wasn’t her fault her moms’ room was close to hers and she overheard Auntie Pyra’s call! Now she was really worried about Mimi! She was worried about Auntie Nia, too, of course, but she’d heard someone tried to assassinate Mimi! She knew all too well how scary that was, and how much she’d relied on her moms and friends after the attempt on her life last year. 

Unable to fall back to sleep, Sena snuck out of her bedroom and made her way to the bedroom of some of her favorite ladies. Opening the door with care so as not to make a sound, she carefully tip-toed towards the queen bed. In a whispered voice she asked, “Praxis? Theory? Can you please help me?”

The reaction of the Blade sisters couldn’t have been more different. Praxis shot up and gasped, whereas Theory just rolled onto her side, clutched the covers tighter, and mumbled something about wanting five more minutes. 

“Whostherewhatsgoingon?” Praxis asked in a groggy haze, before quickly grabbing her eyepatch. Her gaze found Sena crouched at her bedside. “Sena? It’s really early, what are you doing awake?”

“I need you to help me get to Agnus Castle.” Sena said, deadly serious. 

“What?!” Praxis gasped in a surprised whisper. “Why on Alrest do you need to go there?”

“Mimi needs me.”

“Sena, your moms would shatter my core if I helped you sneak off in the middle of the night, and I’d deserve it.” Sena’s face fell. “That being said, you seem like you have a lot on your mind. Why don’t you tell me about it as we walk the grounds?”

“Thanks, Praxis. Sorry for waking you up.”

“It’s ok Sena, I’m glad you came to me rather than go off on your own.”

As the pair walked the hallways, nodding to guards they passed, Sena explained what kept her awake. “At first, I was just really excited for the day out with Mom and Momma tomorrow, you know? I was juuuuust starting to fall asleep around midnight. Then, all of the sudden, my muscles got all sore, and my heart started racing. I tried drinking some water and using my heating pad, but I was so on edge.” Praxis nodded along, following Sena’s story. 

“Anyway, as I was climbing back into bed, I couldn’t help but feel like I was forgetting something super important. I checked my journal, and there wasn’t anything that jumped out at me. So I’m just sitting on the edge of my bed all confused, when I hear my moms get up and answer their coms device in the other room.” Praxis’ eye narrowed accusingly. “Hey, I wasn’t trying to eavesdrop I swear! But Mom can have trouble using her inside voice when she’s upset or worried, you know?” Praxis nodded. 

Satisfied that Praxis believed her, Sena continued, “That’s when I overheard Mom asking Auntie Pyra how…” Sena trailed off. 

“How what, Sena?” Praxis encouraged her. 

“How Mimi was handling the assassination attempt!” She cried, jumping into Praxis arms as tears flowed down her face, and her limbs began to shake. 

“Oh!” was all Praxis could manage as she caught Sena, recoiling a bit. “Sena that’s horrible!”

Sena’s sobbing continued, “And Auntie Nia’s sick and won’t wake up! I’m scared!” The whirring of a distant drill echoed in the distance. 

“So, you’re the cunts’ little hellspawn, eh?” A man, hair black as midnight, stood over her bed with a drill tipped in jet-black metal.

Sena opened her mouth to scream, but the man’s hand closed around her windpipe.

“None of that now. I’m doing you a favor, you know.” The man twirled the drill, leaving its tip right above her core crystal. “Now you won’t have the weight of corrupting countless more drivers with your tainted core on your soul.”

The whirring of the drill started up and…

No! C’mon Sena, get it together. Remember what Dr. Hakut told you. This isn’t real anymore, it’s in the past. You don’t have to think about it again!

“Sena?” Praxis sounded worried. 

Sena put on her most convincing smile, “I have an idea. Let’s go train. It always helps calm me down!”

“Are you sure you’re ok?” Praxis asked, clearly not fully convinced. 

“I’m okay,” she lied. “Dr. Hakut said something about end dolphins helping with the nightmares and the shaking, and I can get those with some exercise.”

Praxis laughed, but caught herself. “I’m pretty sure he meant ‘endorphins’, but now I really, really wanna see an end dolphin!”

Sena let out a mental sigh of relief. Her ‘end dolphin’ tactic had worked, Praxis wasn’t worried anymore. The duo arrived at the Ladairs’ private training grounds. Sena pushed open the door and stepped through. “Let’s stretch, then run some basic sets!”

Praxis laughed. “I’ve never seen someone so excited about the fundamentals.”

“You’ve gotta put in the work if you want to get buff!” Sena responded while putting on her best ‘tough face’ and flexing. She summoned her Comet Mallet. She saw her core’s twin, safely behind a layer of clear armor on one of her mallet’s business ends. On the other end, she saw a strange, yellow-green, and flaming Aspar symbol eating its own tail. “Huh. That’s new. It’s pretty and cool though. I’ll have to ask Momma if she ever fought a flaming Aspar! Now, to work!”

The pair began practicing basic forms, Praxis with her Megalance and Sena with her Comet Mallet. It was about half an hour in that Sena saw her for the first time. 

Standing by one of the training dummies was a teenage girl, closer to her twenties than not, with brown hair and twin pigtails. She was wearing unfamiliar military gear. She had on a skintight, sleeveless black bodysuit with two red accent lines that outlined her midriff and continued running in parallel down her legs. Over the bodysuit was a bulky, green vest  that only extended down just past the girl’s chest, though it continued the red stripes. Additionally, she had on a skirt of the same green hue with a black belt and multiple pockets. There was a red diagonal stripe on the garment too. She had fingerless black leather gloves that extended up seventy-five percent of her arms, with green half-gauntlets. 

The girl spoke to Sena, “Still trying to prove you’re not a waste of space, huh?”

Praxis didn’t seem to see or hear the girl. Sena gritted her teeth and tried to block her out, focusing on the next step in her drill. Ten minutes passed. 

“What, nothing to say to me? A bit cold, for someone you killed.”

You’re not real, shut up! I know when my mind is playing tricks on me! Sena turned her mind back to the drill, more forcibly this time. Step forward, arms up but not too high, elbows in, weight on your back foot, swing with your legs and hips, watch your momentum, and follow through! Breathe in, reset to neutral. Again!

Twenty minutes passed before the girl spoke up again. “So, is this world nicer to losers like us? Pathetic, unwanted, fuck-ups?”

“Shut up, I’m not unwanted!” Sena snapped, bringing the full force of her Comet Mallet down on the girl, who disappeared like she never existed. In her place was the absolutely smashed remains of a training dummy, and some very distinctive circular scorch marks.

Praxis ran over, “Sena, what happened?”

Sena didn’t get a chance to answer, though, because her Mom’s voice cut across the courtyard. “Sena Ladair, you had better have a very good reason for your empty bed, young lady!”

Crap.

Notes:

Writing Nopon dialogue is hard. I hope you find Pippy and Glimmer as cute as I do. Okay, help, the more I write Glimmer the more in love with her character I fall. For the purposes of fics in this universe, Nia pulled Mio aside after being so rudely interrupted by Eunie at the end of her Ascension Quest, and explained the whole “I’m actually your Mam.” thing. Also, I just wanna give Sena a hug, she’s trying her best.

Chapter 3: Brilliant Wings and Kaleidoscopic Core

Summary:

The story of what happened immediately after the Intersection continues with Mòrag scolding Sena. Shulk and Tora make a breakthrough. We finally check in with Eunie, Lanz, and Joran. Melia, Nia, and Poppi finally awaken from their slumber.

Notes:

Content Warning: This chapter contains mentions of canon suicide. If you want to skip this, it starts when Joran says “I’m a monster.” and ends when Joran says “I was happier not knowing!”

Mòrag

Mòrag breathed a sigh of relief internally, but she had rules in place for a reason. She needed to mete out discipline when it was called for. “Sena Áedh Ladair, I am waiting for an answer.” She turned her gaze to Praxis, “We will discuss your part in this in a moment.”

Her daughter stood at attention, dismissed her weapon, and spoke, “Ma’am, I reported to bed at precisely half past twenty hundred hours. I received the news of an outing tomorrow involving several treats and evening entertainment. As a result, I was too excited to sleep, ma’am.” She paused, looking at Mòrag for permission to continue speaking.

Mòrag nodded, “Continue.”

“I began to fall asleep towards the middle of the night. At approximately 00:01, I experienced a number of bizarre sensations that defy logical explanation. My muscles suddenly became sore, my heart started racing, and my mood dropped quite severely.”

Mòrag’s face remained stoic, but internally she began to wonder. Sena’s recent physical had gone perfectly, but so little was known about Bladeling development she couldn’t help but worry. Her daughter’s description hadn’t sounded like anything Dr. Hakut, Sena’s therapist, had said to be on the lookout for either. The only thing she thought of would be the Intersection and what was currently affecting Nia. Mòrag nodded at Sena to continue. 

“I attempted to calm down using the exercise equipment in my bedroom.” Sena paused. 

Her daughter was hiding something, but she hadn’t lied yet. Mòrag narrowed her eyes, “Go on.”

Sena took a deep breath, then mumbled something under her breath. 

“Again, at a volume I can hear.”

“I overheard you and Momma on the phone with Auntie Pyra! I heard what’s happening to Auntie Nia, and that someone tried to kill Mimi! All I could think about was getting to Agnus Castle to be there for her. I swear, I wasn’t trying to eavesdrop!”

“Your eavesdropping could have been discussed in the morning. It is quite evident it was unintentional, and I would not have considered any rules broken. However, the news you heard clearly upset you. Why did you not come to either Momma or myself?”

“I was scared you would be mad at me for listening in.”

“Have we ever been anything but fair with you? No, I think you had another reason. One you aren’t particularly proud of.” Sena played with her side ponytail, an unfortunate tell she had. “Well? Enlighten me.”

“I didn’t come to you or Momma because I wanted to get to Agnus Castle tonight,” Sena admitted,  “and I knew you’d both say no.”

Mòrag took a deep breath, then addressed her little firecracker, “And did you think about what that would look like to Momma and I? The logistics of crossing borders unaccompanied? How Mio’s family would react to you showing up on their doorstep without Brighid or myself?” Her daughter shook her head. “The sentiment to rush to your friend’s aid is noble, but what do Brighid and I always say about making sound decisions?”

“A choice made with heart or head alone lacks the merits of either.” Sena recited.

“I am not mad at you for feeling empathy and compassion. On the contrary, I am proud to be raising such a caring individual.” Mòrag kneeled down and placed a hand on Sena’s cheek. “But I am extremely disappointed that you would undertake such a foolish course of action, especially without even having the decency to leave a note detailing where you had gone and why. I expect better of you in the future, Firecracker.”

“Understood Mom!”

As she prepared to announce Sena’s punishment, her wife’s voice sounded behind her, “Now, Lady Mòrag, I believe it is my duty to remind you that intent is not a crime. Despite what our Sena has said, the only infractions she has technically committed are leaving her room before sunrise and whatever happened to that poor ash pile that used to be a training dummy.”

“And, Sena was never planning on going alone!” Praxis spoke up, “She came to wake Theory and I. When I explained it would worry you, she suggested I accompany her to the training grounds instead. So the only time she left her room unaccompanied was when she was going to get supervision!”

Mòrag knew when she was beaten, although she was secretly glad to let Sena mostly off the hook. “Thank you for reminding me, Brighid, Praxis. In light of that, Sena, your punishment is this: no dessert for the rest of the week, barring our outing at week’s end.”

“Week’s end?” her daughter asked, confused, “I thought we were going for food tonight?”

“Well, we can hardly go for authentic Ardanian cuisine when we’re at Agnus Castle, can we?” Sena’s eyes went wide as saucers.

“You’re serious? Thank you!”

Mòrag felt the wind knocked out of her, as Sena pulled her into a massive hug. Her daughter’s enthusiasm translated  into a distinctly uncomfortable pressure on her ribs. “Sena, darling. Remember, Mom can’t regenerate as quickly as you can.”

“Oh, right! Sorry!” she yelped as she loosened her grip. The poor girl really doesn’t know how strong she is.

“Why don’t you tell Mom and I about what happened with the training dummy over breakfast?” Brighid asked their daughter.

“I don’t really know how to explain it, but I’ll tell you what I felt!”

Mòrag smiled to herself in that moment as she held her daughter’s hand while Brighid grasped Sena’s other, cherishing the fact that their world, and their family, had survived the Intersection more or less in one piece.

 

Shulk

“There! That should be enough. Run the command, Tora!” Shulk exclaimed.

“Hang on Poppi! Masterpon is on the case!” the Nopon called out to the ether as he pressed the enter key with his wing.

For a moment, nothing happened. A few more seconds passed, and there was still no sign of change. Shulk began to question himself. Had he missed a connection somewhere, not altered the right protocol? Then, it happened. For the first time since the Intersection, the readout tracking the amount of data going through Melia, Nia, and Poppi started to decrease.

“Tora, it’s working! Data is slowly moving away from them!”

“Wahoo! Three cheers for Tora and Shulk! Tasty Sausage for everyone!”

“It looks like it will take a few hours to completely cut their link from Origin.”

“Tora will go tell Rex-Rex good news. Can Shulk stay and monitor progress?”

“Of course, Tora. There’s a ton of information to dig into here. I want to know what caused this, and what’s happening with Alvis.”

“That sound like good plan to Tora!”

As the Alrestian engineer ended the call, Shulk was left alone for the first time since the Intersection. It finally hit him that the Origin plan had worked. Everyone’s hard work, long hours, and sacrifice had paid off. Their worlds were safe for a time. Enough time for them to come up with a plan to link them properly by their next passing. Yet, so much about tonight’s events sat ill with Shulk. He couldn’t rest, not yet. He needed to go through Origin’s logs, find out what really happened. He needed to address this strange twinge in his right arm, and figure out just what ‘Damage to Ontos Core detected.’ meant. “Hang in there, Alvis. I unlocked the Monado’s secrets, I’ll get to the bottom of this too.” Shulk grabbed his reading glasses and got to work sifting through a truly absurd amount of data.

---

Four hours later, a comforting noise brought a slight smile to Shulk’s face. He did wish it was just a little quieter though. Then it came again, louder this time.

“Shulk! Wake up! You fell asleep in Origin!” Fiora’s voice finally managed to cut through the sleepy fog that had taken his mind.

“Fiora! Thank you. I was lost in these log files. I guess at some point my long night caught up with me.”

“Aaaand, because I know you so well, I’m guessing you haven’t eaten yet either?” Shulk’s face turned a bit red as he thought about food for the first time in twelve hours. His stomach rumbled in protest at being ignored. “I brought you something! But, only if you let me sit here and eat it with you. The Shulk I know doesn’t just not come home for any old reason. I want to know what’s bothering you.”

He laughed. She really did know him better than anyone else. “Absolutely. Having you here to bounce ideas off of is probably going to be a huge help.

“Probably why you married me, eh?” she asked him as she put down a blanket on the cool, metal floor. She reached into the basket she brought and pulled out their meals. 

“Definitely in the top three reasons.” he said, smiling as he recognized his meal as the same sandwich they had eaten together that fateful day in Outlook Park.

“Tell me then, what has that big brain of yours in knots?”

“There’s a few things. First of all, the error log files are just insanely large. They’re several orders of magnitude larger than I would have expected, even with a catastrophic failure of Origin. Second, Tora noticed that every single entry on the error log is timestamped for the exact moment of the Intersection. Some of the first entries detail that Origin was hijacked by a being referred to only as Z.” Fiora’s eyes widened, but she stayed silent. He appreciated her waiting until he was done. “I started looking from the opposite direction. Right after the Intersection, there’s an entry stating it detected some kind of damage to Alvis’ core.”

Fiora gasped. “Shulk, that’s horrible! We have to help him!”

“Them” Shulk corrected automatically. 

“Wait, them? Did Alvis change pronouns without me noticing?”

Shulk stopped to consider it for a moment. “I don’t know why I said that, but if I think about it, using he/him for Alvis feels wrong now for some reason. Even though we used those pronouns for our entire adventure.”

“And you can’t explain why you feel that way?”

“Not at all. I remember Mythra explaining how the Trinity Processor was set up when I found Alvis’ core. The part she and Pyra made up, Pneuma, was meant to encompass a feminine perspective. Logos, Malos’ dormant form, was supposed to be the male perspective. And Ontos, the core that became Alvis, was supposed to be the neutral arbiter between the two.”

“That’s right, I remember her saying something like that. Maybe the Alvis we knew on Bionis used he/him pronouns because of Zanza?”

“That’s entirely possible. I’ll admit I don’t know as much about Blade resonance as I would like to. Our forays into Alrest with Rex back then were very limited.”

“I’m not sure you’re looking at it from the right angle. You had no issue referring to Alvis as a man yesterday. The only difference between now and then is-”

“The Intersection! Fiora, you’re a genius. Orphaned information in my head after we were all data? I can just look at my own soul file!”

“I’m glad I could help.”

Shulk sat back at the terminal and began searching for his own soul file. Normally, these kinds of files were heavily encrypted to prevent unwanted access, but being one half of the engineers behind Origin had its perks. It didn’t take him long to find it. “Here we are, let’s take a look at my most recent data.”

 

Subject: Shulk (a.k.a. Godcleaver Shulk)

Species: Homs-Ouroboros (currently), Homs (originally), God (previously), Trinity Processor Surrogate (previously)

World of Origin: Bionis and Mechonis

Physiological Data: godcleaver_shulk_homs_ouroboros_BM_001.phys

Psychological Data: godcleaver_shulk_homs_ouroboros_BM_001.psy

Memories: godcleaver_shulk_homs_ouroboros_BM_001.mem

 

Shulk and Fiora sat there dumbfounded for a moment. Shulk was the first to speak “What does it mean by Homs-Ouroboros? And when was I a Trinity Processor Surrogate?” Fiora broke him out of his contemplation before it could get started by picking him up, bridal style. “Fiora what are you doing?”

“Your species is listed as something other than pure Homs. I am taking you to see Sharla and Linada. You’re getting a full physical. Trust me, species changes are nasty on your body. I want to make sure you’re ok.”

Shulk knew better than to argue with his wife at times like this. “Can I at least walk there on my own feet?”

Fiora sighed, and put him down, “Fine, but if you feel off for any reason, you let me know and I’ll carry you, ok?”

“Thanks, Fiora.”

 

Eunie

“You wot?!” Eunie said incredulously as Noah took another bite of his waffle. “Pull the other one! Your mom is going to take you to see the Empress after disappearing on everyone last night?” The quartet of friends sat around their table at Aff-INN-ity, the local hotel Noah’s mom was staying at to celebrate getting through the Intersection. Lanz, Joran, and herself had been invited along. 

“Noah, man. You can just tell us you’re grounded, mate.” Lanz spoke. “No need to tell tales.”

“I’m telling the truth. After I blacked out, my mom was there when I came round.” Noah defended himself. “I thought I was going to be in trouble for sure, but she just hugged me and said she needed to talk to me about something important today. That’s when she dropped that she was planning to take me to see Empress Melia.” He scratched his head. “I honestly can’t tell if I’m in trouble or not.”

“Why did you run off yesterday anyway?” Joran inquired. “You missed a great fireworks show!” Eunie was quite curious about that herself. It wasn’t like Noah to just ditch them all like that. She was sure whatever the reason, there would be a story behind it. 

“I’ll show you!” Noah turned to his mom. “Mom, is it alright if you take Lanz, Joran, Eunie, and I to the Fountain of Eternity for a bit?”

Noah’s mom contemplated this for a moment, before responding, “Sure. We can go there for a bit. I want you four enjoy this vacation. I know all the adults being stressed all the time can’t be fun to be around.” A chorus of “Thank you!” came from the table.

A teleporter and short walk later, and Eunie found herself seated on one of the benches overlooking the fountain. Noah’s mom was having a lively conversation with a High Entia gentleman about the merits of a sword and shield over a greatsword. Noah was gazing off into nothing, seemingly lost in thought. “So Noah,” she asked, a sly grin on her face, “are you going to show us why you ran off, or am I going to have to get Lanz to splash you out of the daydream you’re having?”

“What?” came the response from Noah. “I’m sorry, I didn’t really hear you. I was thinking about how weird last night was.”

“I only asked if you were gonna explain it and show us what you wanted to.”

“Sure! Hey Joran, Lanz! Come over here for a second! I want to show you something!”

“Alright Noah!” Joran replied. Lanz and Joran joined Eunie on the bench. Noah sat on the ground in front of them. 

“Alright Noah, spill.” Eunie spoke, “What got you all riled up last night?”

“Okay, this is going to sound crazy,” Noah began, “but there was a moment last night where it felt like time just stopped.”

“Was that when you spaced out at the fountain?” Lanz asked.

“Yes. After that, I started to feel weird.” Noah continued, “I got sore all of the sudden. My heart was pounding like I’d been running really hard. I also started feeling lonely for some reason. But that’s not the weirdest part.”

“I dunno mate, sounds plenty weird to me,” Lanz commented. “Although now that you mention it, I remember something similar happening last night for Eunie and I.”

“Wait a snuffin’ minute, did three of us have the same creepy experience last night?” Eunie exclaimed. All of her friends were staring at her with confused expressions on their faces. “Wot, are my feathers out of place or somethin’?”

Joran spoke up, “No, I’ve just never heard that word before. What does ‘snuffin’’ mean?”

Eunie opened her mouth to answer, then realized she didn’t know. “I dunno. I just kind of said it, but I don’t think I’ve heard it before either.”

Joran shivered, despite the balmy weather. “This is getting scary. Are you guys alright? Maybe you should see a doctor.”

Not wanting to completely lose the plot, Eunie spoke up, “Anyway, continue Noah. You said it got weirder.”

Noah nodded. “Promise me you won’t laugh.”

“We promise,” the three of them promised in unison.

“I heard a flute playing somewhere. No one else could hear it, but it felt like the most important thing in the entire world to me. That’s why I ran off last night. I wanted to find the source.”

“Hearin’ things no one else can ain’t a good sign, Noah.” Eunie said. Now she was wondering if Joran’s suggestion might not be the worst idea. 

Noah looked uncomfortable, and nodded, but asked, “Did any of you feel something similar?”

Lanz shrugged, “I wanted to work out more than I ever had. Like I’d be disappointing somebody if I slacked off at all. That’s pretty normal for me except for the last part. I normally just work out for the joy of it.”

“The fact that you find joy in those crazy exercises you do still amazes me.” Eunie complimented him. “For me, I’ve just been really invested in origami and scarves, none of which ever mattered to me before. Plus,” she said as she produced a small book from her pocket, “I found this book of herbal tea recipes in my pocket last night. No clue where I got it.” Eunie encouraged Noah, “Anyway, continue Noah. What happened with the mysterious flute?”

“I kept following it for about forty-five minutes. I wound up directly beneath that.” Noah pointed at the giant metal hemisphere floating next to the Imperial Palace. 

She’d seen the big ball plenty. You could see it from her bedroom in Colony 9. But now, there was a weird haze to the left of it. “Does it hurt to look at for anyone else? The weird hazy part to the left of it.” Both Lanz and Noah nodded. 

“You guys aren’t messing with me right?” Joran asked nervously. 

“Course not man, we wouldn’t do you dirty like that,” Lanz reassured him. 

“Then why is the weird stuff only happening for you three and not me? We all came here together.” Joran seemed genuinely upset. 

“Not a clue, mate.” Eunie reassured him.

Noah spoke, “When I was right under it, I started playing along with it. It was odd; it was like I already knew the song.” He stood up and took out his flute. 

“Oooo. Noah’s gonna play for us! Sweet!” Eunie responded with enthusiasm.

Noah began to play a mournful tune, and Eunie felt her heart stir in her chest. Her wings fluttered and she started to tear up. Lanz and Joran were having much the same reaction. As the beautiful, melancholic melody continued, Noah began to attract a small crowd. The adults seemed moved too, but only the children and teenagers were breaking into tears or sobbing.

The melody continued, and it was like a shockwave rippled through the children and teens in the crowd. Eunie grabbed her head, and stared in shock as a gunrod appeared in her lap. There was a cacophony of thuds as weapons appeared near young people in the crowd. Only the gunrod, Lanz’s big greatsword, and Noah’s sword had the symbol of an azure-flamed serpent eating its own tail. 

The adults had started to panic; some running, some trying to comfort their suddenly inconsolable children. Noah kept playing like he was possessed. Fragments of memories started to flash in her mind, but too quick to process. Several faces featured frequently besides Lanz and Noah’s: a darker skinned woman with a double-bladed weapon, a catgirl of some kind with a kaleidoscopic crystal in her chest, a darker-skinned girl with flaming blue hair and an enormous hammer, and an absolutely nerdy looking dark-skinned teen boy with glasses and the most deeply uncool bright orange scarf she’d ever seen. 

The song reached its conclusion, and it was like a fog had been lifted from her mind. Eunie, the Medic Gunner from Keves and proud member of Ouroboros, remembered who she was. “Bloody snuffin’ sparks Noah, that’s one hell of a way to jog a girl’s memory! I hope Mio was gentler with Taion and Sena.”

The youth around them were confused, some shocked at their younger or older selves. But it was Joran that got Eunie’s attention. Her friend had his head in his hands, staring at the floor, and shaking. Lanz spoke up first, “Oh shit, Joran man.”

“I’m a monster.” Joran said softly. “I died. Then I joined them. I manipulated people, drank their life force. I Interlinked with that serial killer. I killed myself.” He turned to Noah, and started to yell at him. “Why would you make me remember that?! I was happier, not knowing!”

“I didn’t know that would happen, Joran, I-“ Noah tried to explain. 

“Are you sure you don’t mean J? Sweet Bionis, D’s alive too, isn’t he? Why the snuff would you play that song?!”

“Joran!” Lanz shouted, shocking their friend. “Noah didn’t know what that song would do. There’s no way he’d do that to any of us without checking if we wanted to know first. You know Noah cares about you man, so don’t take your anger out on him.”

Eunie joined in, “And don’t beat yourself up either. Sure, J did some messed up stuff, but that world was a sparking madhouse. Z manipulated you just so he’d have a weapon against us.”

Noah stepped forward. “Joran, I understand. I did some truly repulsive things as N. He was me too. That world, it broke people. And Z gives people impossible choices. You don’t have to shoulder this burden alone.”

Joran dried his eyes as the adults looked on, confused by four apparent children having this very adult conversation. “Thanks, you guys. I needed to hear that. I’m going to talk to my mom when I get back about seeing a therapist.”

“We probably all should. Empress’ Wings, Aionios was really snuffin’ messed up.”

A woman walking by gasped, “You should watch your language, young lady.”

“Spark off, I say what I snuffin’ want, and you can’t stop me. Can’t you see we’re having a bit of a moment here? Why not mind your own damn business, before I have to make you leave me and my friends alone?” Eunie snapped back, gesturing to her now fully forged Caduceus Gunrod. The woman turned around in a huff, and muttered something about kids and respect. 

Noah’s mom appeared from the crowd. “Noah Leater, what on Bionis did you do and why is there a small platoon of children and teenagers armed with weapons?”

Eunie answered for him, “He accidentally gave everyone that heard him play Mio’s off-seeing tune their memories of Aionios back. It’s real weird being ten again, let me tell you. My sense of balance is totally off.”

Noah’s mom shook her head. “So I’m now taking care of four twenty year olds in kids’ bodies. This weekend was supposed to be a vacation.”

“I’m sorry, Mom.” Noah said. “I didn’t know trying to share the song would do all this. Oh. I know what happened when I blacked out last night now! When I finished playing last night, I Interlinked with Mio!”

“Holy shit, Noah!” Eunie said, still finding her higher voice odd, “You two can still Interlink? Even though she’s in her own world?”

“Yes. We were both playing beneath our respective halves of Origin. I talked with my mom as an Ouroboros. There was no Interlink timer either.”

“Noah, that’s incredible mate.” Lanz said.

“When we swapped over to her, we appeared in her world. She called it Alrest. I got to speak with her Mom.”

“Oi, you talked to Queen Nia?” Eunie asked, mildly jealous. 

“No, actually. Mio has four parents. Her Da, Rex, her Mom, Mythra, her Mum, Pyra, and her Mam, Nia. I spoke with Rex and Mythra.” 

“Wait, Rex as in Stoutheart Rex? The one was basically a Homs cyclone of death in the Land of Challenge? That’s Mio’s Da?”

“I was as shocked as you were. It was pretty funny watching her tell him off for it. Anyway, I got to tell them the first part of our journey before we were interrupted by a Drague made of this ominous orange fog.”

Noah’s mom gasped, “You fought a Fogbeast? Noah, they’re incredibly dangerous!”

“Don’t you worry ma’am,” Eunie said “If we could handle Seraphic Ceratinia I’m sure Noah can handle a Fogbeast.”

“Ugh, don’t remind me,” Lanz complained, “that mudder was brutal, and he hit like a Ferronis.”

“I remember, I’m the one that kept patching you up!” Eunie replied. “I wonder if we can Interlink with Taion and Sena, Lanz?”

“Wait, there’s more. The heat does still build up if you’re fighting. And I didn’t remember anything until I played that song just now. I don’t know where Taion lives, but I know Sena lives in another part of Alrest. Her and Mio were actually good friends in their world too. But they probably don’t remember anything about Aionios, and that will stay true if your Interlink ends.”

“We’ve gotta warn Mio about the Off-Seeing tune. If she starts playing your song in public like you did hers, who knows what’ll happen.” Eunie posited. “Especially if her Mam’s the Queen. If she plays at a ceremony or something and a buncha weapons just appear?”

Before Noah could respond, heavy footsteps approached. A detachment of the Alcamoth Imperial Guard approached the recently altered crowd. “We heard reports of a disturbance in the area,” a younger-looking guard spoke. “I can see that your children are all armed, and many look distressed. I think I’m going to have to ask you all to follow me to the audience chamber. Something significant has happened here, and for the safety of Keves, I want to be sure we understand everything that has happened.”

Oh spark, thought Eunie, I’m going to see Melia and all I have on are shorts and a t-shirt.

 

Melia

The first thing Melia noticed was the pain. It was everywhere; her legs ached, her arms hurt, her stomach burned, her chest felt tight, and her head pounded like she’d had far too much wine. Ultra Tail Strike from Abaasy hurt less than this. Slowly, she opened her eyes to see the ceiling of her personal chambers. “I feel absolutely dreadful,” she said, moving to stretch and stopping as she felt a sharp tugging in her forearm. She quickly discovered the sources were a pair of tubes, each attached to an IV bag. She wondered what on Bionis had happened, as the last thing she remembered was overlooking a rapidly expanding ocean as Aionios faded away.

“Oh shit!” She heard the familiar voice of Reyn say to himself, leaving her to contemplate why exactly her friend was in her personal chambers. “Sharla, Linada! Get in here, she’s coming round!”

Coming round, she thought, how long was I unconscious? Sharla entered her field of view in a white coat. Ah, Melia realized, I’m the patient. She began to sit up, wanting to be as proper as she could to greet her old friend. This proved to be a rather reckless decision, as her abdomen screamed like fire at the attempted motion. 

“Easy, lay back down!” Sharla ordered. “You’ve been through a lot over the last twelve hours.”

“Apparently.” Melia responded. Even her voice sounded beat up. What had happened to her?

“Alright, I need to check vitals.” Her friend looked at the device tracking her heart rate and oxygen saturation levels in her blood, taking notes. “I’ll need a bit of blood for this next bit; hold still so we only have to do this once.” Sharla pricked her finger with a small device. “This is checking your ether levels,” Sharla explained, “They were dangerously low last night.” The device made a small pinging noise. “Alright, your heart rate, O2 levels, and ether levels are all a bit outside of standard ranges, but normalizing. How are you feeling Melia?”

“Like I’ve been hit by a dragon, broiled alive, and beaten senseless. So far the only things that don’t hurt are blinking, breathing, talking, and my wings. What happened to me?”

Sharla shook her head, “Shulk will have to explain the why, I’m afraid, but I can explain the what. Essentially, you’ve been unconscious since midnight last night. You’ve been consuming a ton of calories. About twenty people’s daily intake every ten minutes. I’ve been giving you what nutrients I could, but you essentially have been experiencing accelerated starvation and ether deprivation.”

“That would explain why it feels like I could eat Immovable Gonzales.”

“Yes, but we have to reintroduce solid foods slowly.” Sharla cautioned. “Even though it was technically only twelve hours, your body more closely resembles someone who’s been starving for weeks, not hours. If we don’t take it slowly, we’ll shock the system. You are on a strict diet until I say so.”

“Thank you for looking out for me, Doctor Sharla. Where is Shulk?” Melia asked, “I would quite like to know the why of this situation.”

“He was finishing up a physical with Linada. When he was investigating Origin, he saw his own file listed his species as Homs-Ouroboros. Linada was looking to see if he was experiencing any ill effects.”

“I imagine my unfortunate state has something to do with why Shulk was looking through things in Origin.”

Sharla nodded. “The findings so far suggest something went wrong during the Intersection.”

“Yet here we stand.” Melia remarked, “Metaphorically, in my case.”

“How are you feeling, Melia?” Fiora asked as she entered the room. This was Melia’s first time seeing Fiora in her custom power frame. It was modeled after her Nemesis gear, and Melia’s thoughts began drifting to a less than proper place seeing her friend strut in. She shook her head quickly, not wanting to focus on her relatively newfound appreciation of women at the moment.

“Absolutely dreadful, but alive.” She answered. 

Reyn, Tyrea, Riki, Kino, Nene, Dunban, and Shulk all piled into her bed chambers. After exchanging pleasantries, Melia turned to Shulk. “Sharla has informed me that you could enlighten me as to how I came to find myself in this situation.”

“Alvis’ core was damaged somehow. There’s a massive error file in Origin, and they couldn’t process it alone.”

“Shulk, are you telling me you don’t remember fighting Alpha?”

“Alpha?” Shulk asked. “I’ve never heard that name before.”

“Then allow me to allay some of your confusion. I believe, as one of the Pseudo-Trinity Processors at Origin’s outset, I may have been the only one of us in this room immune to the amnesia some of you are experiencing.”

“Amnesia?” Reyn asked, concerned.

“Yes. Concerning the world that existed for millennia and no time at all: Aionios. Take a seat, all of you, and allow me to explain what happened when the worlds collided.”

 

Nia

Nia awoke to Pyra attempting to change her clothes as she slept. She bolted awake, and grabbed Pyra in a giant hug. “Pyra! I missed you so much!”

Pyra yelped in surprise, “Nia, you’re awake! I’m happy to see you too, but why do you miss me?”

“Because I haven’t bloody seen you in over a thousand years!” Her wife seemed shocked. “Well, closer to five thousand but after the first millennium, I stopped keeping count.”

“Five thousand years?! Nia I saw you last night! What are you talking about?”

“Aionios.” Nia stood up.

Pyra rushed to support her, “Nia, should you be up and about right now? And what does Aion have to do with anything?”

“Not Aion,” Nia clarified as she continued changing, “Aionios. The merged world Z made after they took over Origin. And you know I heal fast, I’m fine.”

“Nia, darling, you’re scaring me.”

“You don’t know anything about Aionios, do you?” Nia adjusted her top. “Shite. Am I the only one that remembers it? Oh no, Mio!”

“What’s wrong with Mio?”

“Nothing wrong with her, but there’s someone she needs to see again, no matter what! But first, before I worry about any of that Aionios shite, I want to see my spouses, my daughters, and Dromarch again. It’s been far too bloody long since I got to hold all of ya. I promise I’ll explain later, just grant me this, yeah?”

“Ok Nia,” her wife relented. “I’ll go get Rex and the kids and try to wake Mythra.” Pyra left the room, closing the door behind her.

Nia could barely contain her excitement. All of the pain and loneliness she’d had to endure in Aionios had been worth it. They’d won! She was going to see her family again in more than just a photo. “I know I’ll reach for, the ladder that’s there!” Nia started singing the song Alexandria, Glimmer, and Mio had written for Pyra and Mythra’s birthday. She just couldn’t contain her joy! She literally bounced up and down like an excited schoolgirl. Having thrown open the curtains, she stepped onto the balcony and basked in the afternoon sun and cool Agnian breeze. It felt so good to be alive and home again!

The door burst open with a crash as a whirlwind slammed into Nia’s side. She looked down to see her Mio hugging her, quickly joined by Alex and Glim. Rex, Mythra, and Pyra weren’t far behind. Dromarch curled around her back. Nia’s cheeks quickly dampened with her own tears of joy and relief. 

Mio’s little voice asked, “Mam, why are you crying?”

“These are happy tears, Mio.” Nia responded as she scratched behind her daughter’s ears. “I know you all saw me only a few hours ago, but I haven’t been able to hold you all like this in a very, very long time.”

“My lady, whatever do you mean?” Dromarch inquired.

“I’ll explain in a moment, all of you, I promise. Just please, let me enjoy this for a few moments.” She sat in silence with her family for a few minutes, relishing all the little sensory details that had faded over her time in Aionios. How Pyra and Glimmer radiated heat at the exact same temperature. Mythra and Alexandria’s eyes occasionally darting every which way as they perceived events no one else could. Mio’s head nuzzling into her chest as she purred quietly. The way Dromarch’s fur was only a little prickly, as if he hadn’t been groomed yet today. The weight of Rex’s massive arms holding the whole hug together with the stupidest grin on his face. 

Every difference from Aionios was magnified for her. Glimmer’s ponytail was a bit sloppier. Rex had both eyes again. Mio’s hair was short again. Alex didn’t feel the need to hide her core here, and she didn’t have on makeup to appear older than she was. “It feels so good to be home with all o’ ya again!”

“Okay, I’ve hit my limit for cryptic comments,” Glimmer spoke up, “Mam, you need to explain what you mean.”

“And since when, exactly, do you give me orders, Glim?” Nia teased, booping her daughter on the nose. “But fine. Gather round, get comfortable, and have some lunch sent up. My story is long, and while it has a happy ending, it’s a story of pain, struggle, grief, sacrifice, regret, and loss.” She turned to her spouses. “There are parts of this story you may not think are appropriate for the kids to hear, but trust me. They’re all so much tougher than you think, and they deserve the whole, unvarnished truth. No matter how horrible.”

“We trust ya’, Nia.” Her husband stated, “If you think they need to hear it, I’ll let ya tell ‘em.” 

Rex’s voice hit Nia like a Titan ship. She hadn’t heard him in so long. Her cheeks flushed red when she realized the heat in her chest wasn’t coming from Pyra or Glimmer. She put a hold on her feelings for a moment, gathered her thoughts, then addressed her family, “Everyone comfortable? Got someone to hold? Cause I’m not stoppin’ once I start.” There were nods around the room. Taking a deep breath, Nia began recounting the tale of Aionios to her family.

---

“I always fell in love with Noah?” Mio asked.

“Every single time, Mio. And he always fell in love with you.” Nia smiled.

“Can you miss someone you’ve never met?” Mio asked her.

To everyone’s surprise, it was Mythra that answered, “Yeah, you can. I saw Rex’s face all the way back at the Fall of Torna. I missed your Da for five hundred years before I even knew his name.”

“Continue your story, Nia.” Rex encouraged, but Nia could see the slight blush on his cheeks at Mythra’s words.

“So this time, something a bit different happened. Instead of fighting Moebius, Noah and Mio tried to live out their lives together in secret. As so often happens with people that fall in love, eventually Mio had a child.”

Mio’s cheeks went brighter than Pyra’s armor at that. “I what?!”

“Aionios was a different place. You were seventeen at the time. And you knew your life ended at twenty. There weren’t a lot of compelling reasons to wait.”

Mio just grasped her stomach tenderly, “I had a child. I fell in love with a boy named Noah and we had a child. Am I dreaming?” Nia shook her head no. “I was a mother. I…think I need to lie down.” Nia motioned to her lap, and Mio crawled onto the bed and gently rested her head there. Her eyes were wide and unfocused, and she seemed a million titanpeds away.

“I’m sorry to shock you all with this, but believe it or not, this child’s birth was critical to escaping the Endless Now. I had to include it.” Nia felt her tights get wetter, and looked down to see Mio silently crying.

“I had a child and I don’t even know their name. I don’t remember their father’s face. I don’t remember them.”

Nia pulled Mio into the tightest hug she could muster, and stroked her back. “It’s not your fault, Mio. If it helps, your child’s name was Ghondor Vandham. Even when you didn’t know your family, a little bit of us still managed to come through.”

Mio wiped away a tear, “Really? I named him after Da without even knowing him?”

Nia nodded, “Bonds forged by love are not so easily broken. Even despite everything Z did to you, you still kept in touch with us in any way you could.” Nia took a deep breath, not looking forward to telling the next part. “For two years, you three were a happy family,” she began,  “but Mio’s tenth term came all too soon.”

---

“With the new City founded, Aionios’ future was looking brighter than ever.”

“What was M doing now that Alpha was gone?” Mio asked.

“M was fighting back in the small ways she could as Moebius. She invented a ritual to help those who lost companions in the war to mourn their fallen comrades. She called it Off-Seeing.” Nia spoke, “A person called an Off-Seerer would play a melody on a personal flute. Each Off-Seer’s melody was unique, and came from the heart. Agnian Off-Seers tended to play in pairs, while Kevesi Off-Seers played alone.”

“An emotional flute melody, you said?” Mio asked. 

“Yes, Mio.”

Mio took out her flute. “I wonder if that’s what I heard last night. Is that why it felt like I already knew the song?” Her daughter wondered out loud. “Mam, can I interrupt your story for a moment? I want to play for the victims of N’s attack on the first City.”

“I don’t see why not, Mio. My voice could use a break.”

“Nia,” Mythra spoke with a dangerous edge in her voice, “I’m not sure that’s a good idea. When she played last night-“

“Oh hush, you!” Nia protested, “This is important to Mio. Let her play.” 

“I will not ‘hush’!” Mythra responded, clearly annoyed. “When Mio played that song last night she Interlinked with Noah and vanished from Alrest entirely!”

“What?!” resounded from everyone in the room except for Rex.

“Mythra,” Nia asked, “are you telling me Mio played her Off-Seer melody last night and successfully Interlinked across the worlds? She vanished and appeared on the remains of the Bionis and Mechonis?”

“Is that what happened when I blacked out last night?” Mio asked Mythra and Rex. “Is that why you wouldn’t tell me?”

“She doesn’t remember when she Interlinked and you both didn’t see fit to tell me?” Pyra said accusingly to Mythra and Rex.

“Py, I was going to but I was a bit exhausted from fighting the Fogbeast-” Rex began.

“What is a Fogbeast? How many fights was Mio in last night?!” Pyra said protectively.

“That’s ENOUGH!” Dromarch roared out, stopping everyone in place. “Listen to you all, squabbling like children. Throwing accusations around isn’t going to help anybody, least of all Mio. Let’s all take a deep breath and calm down.” Internally, Nia grinned. Ever since he’d found out she was expecting Mio, Dromarch had been very protective of her.

There was a knock on the bedroom door, and a familiar voice coming from the other side. “Excuse me for interrupting, your Majesty,” Quina, a member of the Royal Guard, spoke, “but I bring you the news of the arrival of Ladies Mòrag, Brighid, and Sena Ladair from the Empire of Mor Ardain.”

Notes:

I find it very convenient that there is a landmark in Alcamoth called the Fountain of Eternity. Sometimes, the symbolism writes itself. This fic also serves as a reminder that Aionios is super-duper fucked up. Rex’s entire family is full of badasses. Quina is another Blade from my XC2 playthrough. She’s an ice-element chroma katana bound to Nia. I know this fic has been XC2 heavy so far, but I haven’t forgotten about XC1, I promise.

Chapter 4: Immediate Threat

Summary:

The Agnus Royal Family interrupts their story of Aionios to welcome old friends from afar. We check in with Taion, Juniper and some familiar faces. Zeke joins Rex’s family for dinner and learns the shocking truth of Aionios.

Notes:

For clarity: Mio, Glimmer, Alexandria, and Sena are all ten years old. Linka is eighteen. Juniper, Taion, Fiona, and Irma are all also ten. Certain Blades have started aging after Klaus' final gift, so while most look relatively similar, Blades that appear as children or teenagers have grown until they matured into adults.

Brighid

Brighid was worried about Sena. Her daughter’s PTSD symptoms had been becoming more manageable over the past year, but Sena’s description of what had happened to the training dummy had sent a chill down her spine. Hallucinating a bully was new, and the things the girl had said to Sena were deeply disturbing. Brighid was grateful when Lady Mòrag decided to accelerate their trip to Agnus. Not only was Brighid worried about her second-favorite royal family (behind his Majesty, the Emperor, of course!), it would be good for Sena to have her friends close. She didn’t have as many friends in Alba Cavanich as Brighid would have liked.

To her credit, Sena seemed to be putting on a brave face in preparation for seeing Mio as they entered the Agnian Castle’s audience chamber. Brighid smiled a bit at how much her daughter had a crush on ‘Mimi’. It was genuinely adorable.

Brighid was pulled from her thoughts as Nia, who, to Brighid’s understanding had been comatose only hours before, strode into her throne room with her family in tow!

“Brighid, Mòrag, Sena! Welcome! It’s so good to see you all!” Nia exclaimed. 

“My goodness, Nia.” Lady Mòrag said, “ I was unaware you were up and about.”

“Hi Queen Nia!” Sena waved, before turning her attention to Mio and her siblings.

“What brings you to Agnus, Brighid?” Mythra asked her. 

“We came to help support your family while Queen Nia was unconscious, but that appears to have been unnecessary.” In a lower voice, Brighid whispered, “And Sena was very worried about Mio after the assassination attempt.”

Mythra nodded in understanding. “We have the assassin in Li Garte Prison. She’s been uncooperative so far. I can’t shake the feeling her getting captured was part of a contingency plan of some kind. She’s too confident for my liking.” After taking a sip of coffee, Mythra asked, “How’s Sena been doing? I know the past year has been rough. If you ever want to chat, mom to mom, I’m just a call away.”

“Thank you, Mythra. She’s been improving, but she still has nightmares almost every night.” Her friend nodded as they both watched Tora and Poppi in her QTPi mode stride into the room. 

“It’s good to see you up and about, Poppi.” Rex said, giving the artificial Blade a hug. “How’re ya feelin’?”

“Poppi happy to report feeling better than ever thanks to Masterpon!”

Pyra cleared her throat. “I’m going to start making dinner. We’ll be expecting Zeke, Pandoria, Linka, Adenine, and KOS-MOS too, so I need to get started a little early.”

“I will never turn down Pyra’s cooking,” Brighid said. 

“Not just mine tonight, actually! Crosette’s helping me out.”

“What’s on the menu, sis?” Mythra asked.

“Hot Moonbeam Salad, Crossette is making Blazing Quoteletta, I’m making my signature Baked Redfish, and Cream Orange Paratha for dessert!”

“Aw, yis!” Nia and Mio said in unison.

Brighid feltl her daughter’s eyes boring holes into the back of her skull at the mention of a Pyra-baked dessert. Pyra left to begin preparing dinner as Brighid braced herself for the inevitable. 

“Momma?” came Sena’s voice from behind her, trying to sound as innocent as possible.

Playing along for now, Brighid responded, “Yes Sena?

“I know what we talked about earlier with dessert-“

“Then you already know my answer, Sena.” Her daughter’s face fell, but she bounced back to her normal, upbeat self quickly. 

“Eh, it was worth a shot!” Sena admitted. “Can I go play with Mimi, Glimmer, and Alexandria, please?”

“As long as Dromarch is watching you, I don’t see why not. Just play nice and remember you’re a lot stronger than you think you are, Firecracker.”

“I will, Momma!” Sena yelled back, having already started running to catch up with her friends.

Brighid walked over to where Rex, Mythra, Lady Mòrag, Tora, Poppi, and Nia were in the midst of a conversation. Lady Mòrag held out her hand for Brighid to take, which she did gladly. 

“How Poppi know maintenance protocols work for five thousand years?!” Tora sighed, exasperated. “Sorry friends. Tora must apologize. Poppi been saying strange things since she wakey-wakey. Tora have to run diagnostic on personality matrix tonight.”

“Masterpon, stop speaking for Poppi as if Poppi was littlepon! Poppi lived longer than Masterpon!” The Nopon engineer started bashing his head into Rex’s leg in frustration. “Stop with head bashy-bash! Poppi been trying to tell you, Poppi experience many millennia in temporal stasis dimension, Aionios.”

“What Poppi say? Where Poppi learn word Aionios?”

“Learn in Aionios. Would be very silly not to know name of world self in, Masterpon.”

“Poppi’s telling the truth, Tora.” Nia said. “She was my only company in Aionios for a very long time.”

“But Tora still not know what Aionios is!”

“I’ll explain over dinner, Tora.” Nia assuaged the riled up engineer. “I was actually in the middle of explaining it to my family when Mòrag, Brighid, and Sena arrived.”

“I must admit, I am rather curious to hear about this Aionios myself,” Lady Mòrag said. “From the way you’re both speaking of it, it sounds like quite the story.”

Whatever Nia was about to say was interrupted by a loud cracking noise, followed immediately by the familiar scream of “Not agaaaaaaiiiiiiiinnnn!” as Zeke and some fencing fell off the walkway connecting the Cloudkeep to Agnus Castle proper.

“Dad, no!” Linka shouted from the walkway.

“Every. Single. Time.” Pandoria sighed.

“Worry not, Pandoria. This result was accounted for in ninety-five point six two seven percent of my predictions, and I took the necessary precautions.” KOS-MOS reassured Pandoria. “Master Zeke has been equipped with a parachute inside one of his many belts. He will rejoin us in approximately twenty minutes with eighty-four point nine two percent certainty. Uncertainty is due to the non-zero chance of attracting the attention of local wildlife. Threat to his well-being is calculated at zero percent. Threat to his pride is calculated at one hundred percent. I predict this will have a zero percent chance of changing Master’s behavior in similar scenarios in the future. This concludes my analysis.”

“Master Zeke really makes me wonder if there is a quantifiable way to measure a person’s luck.” Adenine wondered aloud. 

“Lady Mòrag, it would appear the Tantalese King’s luck has not improved any since we last saw him.”

“So it would seem.” Lady Mòrag said. “I’m beginning to believe I may never get the chance to finish sparring with him properly without some kind of unfortunate interference cutting the bout short.”

Shaking his head, Brighid heard Rex whisper to himself, “That railing passed inspection yesterday.”

“Well come on in, all o’ ya’!” Rex greeted them. “I’ll wait up here for Zeke. The rest of you, head inside. Mythra’ll show you to our living room. Make yourselves at home. There’s a few hours left until dinner, so don’t be afraid to ask for a drink, a snack, or somit’.”

With an evening of fine dining and pleasant company ahead, Brighid took Lady Mòrag by the arm and followed Mythra inside. 

 

Juniper

Juniper found Taion exactly where they expected to: face down in a pile of books in the back corner of the library, fast asleep. Shaking their head, the young Gormotti Blade-Eater gently tapped their friend on the shoulder. 

“Who’s there?!” Taion jolted awake. He looked rather ridiculous. He was trying to appear threatening, but his glasses were askew and he still had a bit of drool on his face. 

“Relax, Taion. It’s just Juniper. You fell asleep doing research. It’s four in the afternoon.”

“Ah,” he said as he fixed his glasses. “Thank you for coming to find me, then.”

Juniper shrugged. “I just figured you didn’t want to miss dinner.”

“Right you are.” Taion said as he began cleaning up his reading materials. “The provisions I brought for research only lasted so long.”

“What were you looking into, anyway?” Juniper asked as they made their way towards the mess hall. 

“I told you I woke up feeling strange.” Taion explained, “I had a craving for something called Mist Tree Tea, but as far as I can tell there is no such thing as a Mist Tree in Alrest. It feels too specific to be something I just dreamed up.”

“Hmmm. I can’t say I’ve heard of anything like it in Alrest.” Juniper saw an ether lamp go off in Taion’s mind. “Oh no, what did I do?”

“Maybe, I’ve been looking at this the wrong way. I need to expand the scope of my research. Maybe I can’t find a Mist Tree in Alrest because they aren’t in Alrest at all!”

“Do you mean that other world Mikhail is always talking about? The one that’s supposedly a sister to our world?”

“Yes, I do.”

“I admit, I am quite curious about the animals and plant life.” The pair had arrived at the mess hall, and got in line with their other siblings of circumstance. The meal smelled of a higher quality than normal today. 

Thanking their server, Juniper and Taion began looking for a place to sit, only to hear a friendly voice calling out from across the room. “Juni! Tai Tai! I saved a spot for you!” Fiona waved them over with her usual infectious enthusiasm. Taking their cue, Juniper joined their friend at the table. 

“You know, Fiona, I’ve never understood your nickname for me.” Taion said as he sat down. “Aren’t nicknames supposed to be shorter than the person’s actual name?”

“I don’t give people nicknames to be practical, Tai Tai!” Fiona explained, “I give people nicknames because I care about them!”

“Ahem. May I have everyone’s attention, please?” The tenor of Mikhail’s voice sent a hush over the room. “Thank you. Now, I won’t keep you from your meals for too long, but I did want to congratulate you all! We survived the Intersection. Some of you get to add ‘survived an apocalypse’ to your résumés early!” Mikhail laughed at his own joke. “That being said, Origin was an experimental project. Anyone that feels off over the next few days should absolutely tell a trusted adult. That includes you adults out there.” A chorus of laughter came from the other caretakers at that. “We want to catch any potential problems, unlikely as they are, early. Now, I’ve prattled on long enough, eat up everyone!”

As the room burst into the sounds of applause and silverware on plates, Juniper stared at Taion. “You have to tell someone.”

“Are you not feeling well, Tai Tai?” Fiona asked, concerned.

“I’m fine, Fiona.” Taion lied.

“Taion, you woke up in the middle of the night complaining about how you felt off.” Juniper countered, “I’m not going to let you just play this off like it’s nothing!”

“Tai Tai, if you’re hurt, let us help!” Fiona pleaded. “It’s okay to rely on your friends when you need to!”

“I’m not going to talk to anyone about this.”

“Why are you being so stubborn about this Taion?”

“Because he said to go to an adult you trust.” Taion explained calmly, “And I don’t trust any adult here.”

“Why don’t you trust any of the adults, Tai Tai?” Fiona fumed. “They’ve all been nothing but kind to us!”

“You’re too trusting, Fiona.” Taion said bitterly. “The last time I trusted an adult, I wound up with a core crystal permanently embedded in my chest. Adults only ever think about their own benefit. If we’re still alive, it’s because we’re still useful to them.”

“That’s not true, and you know it, Taion.” Juniper admonished him. “Your logic is flawed. You trust Fiona, Irma, and I. But all that separates us from adults is time. Avoidance isn’t a valid long-term tactic, mister ‘Master Tactician’.”

“Hey, did I walk into something?” Irma asked as she reached the table. 

Taion’s reaction to her voice was instantaneous. He sprung to his feet, struck a combat stance, and summoned his flock of Mondo. “Fiona, don’t trust her! She’s Moebius!” He shouted. 

Fiona and Irma were frozen with fear as one their best friends drew a weapon on them. Irma’s tray fell to the ground as Juniper leapt to their feet and summoned their Luminescent Bow, arrow knocked, and pointed at Taion’s chest. “Taion, dismiss your weapon. Now!” The entirety of the mess hall had gone quiet except for Fiona and Irma’s tears of fear. Everyone was looking at them. Juniper’s skin began to crawl; they hated attention, but they stood firm. “I don’t know what you mean by Moebius, but we can talk this out.” Juniper noticed a new addition to Taion’s Blade: a yellow-green flaming Aspar eating its own tail emblazoned on the control mechanism on his arm.

Seemingly being shocked back into his right mind, Taion quickly dismissed the Mondo and fell to his knees. “Oh no. Irma, Fiona, Juniper, I’m so sorry. I don’t know what just came over me. It was like I was a different person. I can’t believe I just pulled a weapon on you.” Fiona just hugged Irma defensively and gave Taion a death glare as Irma cried into her shoulder, her dinner abandoned on the mess hall floor. 

Juniper slowly lowered their bow. “Get up.” they offered a hand to Taion, “We’re going to take you to Mikhail. Now.” There was such authority behind their words that even Taion didn’t dare argue. 

 

Zeke

“Shut the front door, chum!” Zeke shouted in disbelief. “You’re telling me there were not one, but two awesome adventures and the Zekenator missed both of them?!”

“Of course that was your takeaway, Shellhead.” Nia shook her head.

“Well, my King.” Pandoria reassured him, “I think Z was obviously too scared of the Bringer of Chaos to ever risk waking you from Origin.”

Of course! That made perfect sense. This Z bloke, as evil as they sounded, definitely seemed smart enough to pick his battles. Of course he’d kept Zeke off the board! Chap had wanted to win, after all. “Sorry for the outburst there, Nia old chum. You shocked me with the news of an entire world existing without most of the world knowing. Carry on.”

“Ozychlyrus Brounev Tantal!” Zeke winced as Nia used his ‘legal’ name, which she was doing just because it annoyed him. He really should get around to changing that one of these days. “I do not need your permission to speak in my own castle!” One of the few benefits of age was the wisdom that sometimes came with it. Zeke had enough wisdom in this moment to keep his mouth shut as Nia continued recounting her story, opting instead to take a bite of the Hot Moonbeam Salad in front of him.

 

---

 

“Attagirl, Linka! Way to sock it to that Alpha jerk!” Zeke cried out, patting his daughter’s back so hard she accidentally spit out the piece of her Blazing Quoteletta she’d been eating. “Sorry about your bloke though, Mio. Sounds like Z really turned the screws on him.” It was only Zeke’s lightning fast reflexes that spared him a glitterspud to the face from Pyra. “Ah, that may have been a bit insensitive of me. Sorry Mio.”

“Oh my King.” Pandoria just shook her head. 

 

---

 

Zeke was in the midst of cutting into his baked redfish when he saw Sena’s eyes go wide. “Excuse me, Queen Nia?”

“Yes, Sena? What are you confused about?”

“This Shania girl, what did she look like?” As Nia began to describe the girl’s outfit-way too basic for the Zekenator’s taste-he watched Brighid, Mòrag, and Sena tense up.

“Lady Mòrag, that sounds like-“

“Do not ask me, ask Sena.”

“That’s her, Momma. Shania is definitely the girl I saw.”

“Nia,” Zeke asked, “you said Ouroboros remembered some things from Aionios, yeah?”

“That’s my current working theory, yes.” Nia responded. “I’ve yet to confirm anything with our allies in Keves.”

Sena began to hyperventilate. “Oh sweet Architect, she’s real. Does that mean I killed her?”

“Worry not, friend Sena.” Poppi chimed in, “Shania was complicated person. Do not berate self before you hear rest of story.”

“Hey,” Mio grabbed Sena’s hand. “It’s alright. You’re safe here. I’ve got you.”

Sena’s breathing slowed back down to a normal pace. “Thanks, Mimi.”

Uh oh. Zeke thought to himself. Mio and this Noah bloke seem like a pretty exclusive deal. Poor Sena’s gonna get her heart broken! Why is Mòrag staring at me like that, and why do I feel like electric guitars should be playing?

 

---

 

“Now that’s a finale! Drama, passion, dope warriors, sacrifice, and a group of young upstarts sticking it to the man! I daresay Ouroboros pass with flying colors!”

“Dad, you do realize you are the man now, right?” Linka asked.

Zeke clutched his chest as the mortal blow struck him. To think, his own daughter would be the one to deliver the fatal blow. “Pandy…” he whispered, “I’m sorry. I don’t think I’m going to make it. My wounds…they’re too deep.”

“No, my king! Stay with me, please. Nia, you have to do something!” Pandy implored their friend.

“I’m sorry, Pandoria. But some wounds are too brutal for even my powers to heal.” Nia said solemnly.

“Just know…Pandoria, I’ve always loved you. And Linka, even if you did betray me, I will always…love…you…”

“Is your dad always like this?” he heard Alexandria ask Linka.

“Yeah, just let him get it out of his system,” Linka responded. “It goes faster if you play along.”

“I hope everyone saved room for dessert!” the cheery voice of Crossette, who’d grown up into a renowned restaurant owner known throughout the Agnus Queendom for her spicy cuisine, sounded out. The smell of a delectable baked treat wafted through the air. “Pyra and I baked it special! Why is Pandoria on the floor next to Zeke grasping his chest?”

“That smell!” Zeke gasped. “It’s reviving me! Pyra, Crossette, I owe you my life!”

“Well, I think in light of what our little Ouroboros has been through,” Mòrag said with a sly grin, “I can overlook one nighttime escapade. Sena, you are no longer in trouble. Consider it my treat for saving two worlds.”

“Thanks Mom!”

“I think it’s only fair we unground Mio then. Whaddya say, ladies?” Rex asked his wives. 

“Fine by me.” Mythra said. 

“As long as Mio understands that what she did was incredibly reckless and dangerous, I have no problem with that.” Pyra said. 

“No way am I groundin’ my daughter after I just watched her save the world!” Nia declared. 

“That’s unanimous then! Mio, you’re officially ungrounded.”

“That’s excellent!” Mio cheered. 

“Three cheers!” Zeke yelled, “To Ouroboros!” The cheering was drowned out by the sounds of an explosion from far below them. “What in the blazes was that?!”

Rex was at the window first. “Titan’s foot (Rex, the kids! Pyra cried out)! There’s smoke billowing up from below. I think it’s coming from Li Garte.”

“The assassin!” Brighid gasped. “I think your instincts were right on the money, Mythra.”

Mythra’s comms device sounded out with a Blade’s voice, “Ma’am, Oleg and the assassin are loose. There’s a pair of Blades, one Dark, one Water, that busted the wall. There are at least fifty Indoline Warrior Monks with them with an Indoline Star as backup artillery! We’re being overwhelmed and require immediate backup! Quina get down!” There was the sound of an explosion and the line went dead. 

“Fuck.” Mythra swore loudly. “I knew she was too cocky, I didn’t think she had a damn army!”

“What do you need us to do, Mythra? Thunderbolt Zeke is at your disposal.”

“You, Pandoria, Brighid, Mòrag, Adenine, KOS-MOS, Tora, and Poppi are with me.” Mythra ordered. “I can’t use Siren; there'd be collateral damage, so I’ll need backup. Rex, Pyra, Nia, Linka, and Dromarch: Take the kids to the Throne Room and lock it down. Make no mistake, the army is a distraction. Alexandria, Glimmer, and Mio are their targets. Nobody is dying tonight, got it?!”

“Yes, ma’am!” They all responded in unison.

 

Mio

Mio held on tight as Dromarch raced through the halls of Agnus Castle towards the throne room. Da was carrying Glim and Alex, and Mum had Sena. Linka and Mam were bringing up the rear. Periodically, the sounds of artillery fire would ring out, and the castle would shudder at the impact. Mio really wished she felt as strong and cool as Mam’s story had made her sound. 

“We’re ‘ere, everybody in!” Da shouted. As the group of them entered the room, Mam made a beeline for her throne. Drawing her Catalyst Scimitar, she activated the room’s control mechanism. Heavy doors sealed the room off from the outside. Mam and Mum swapped to their combat gear in a flash, and both tossed Da their weapons. 

Mio was terrified. She could see her siblings and Sena weren’t doing much better. The adults and Linka were taking defensive positions, and discussing strategy. Someone needed to step up and be a leader for the kids here, and Mio thought it might as well be her. 

“Alex, Glim, and Sena. Gather round.” They all moved towards her, still scared and confused now. “We’re going to get through this. You heard Mam’s story. We’ve all dealt with way worse than this! Glimmer, you went toe to toe with Alpha! Alex, you took down Colony Iota’s corrupt commander when you were only thirteen, then took the reins and made Iota one of the best colonies in all of Agnus. Sena, we fought Moebius and took down Z. We’re not going to just sit here scared!” Mio summoned her Dual Moonblades and raised them above her head. “If they come, we’ll be ready!” 

Her siblings and friends summoned their own weapons and mirrored her gesture. “We should take an inventory of our abilities.” Alexandria said. 

“Leave the enemies to me.” Mio said. “I’m light on my feet and good at keeping their attention.” 

“I’m a healer, but I do a healthy dose of support too.” Glimmer added. “I’ll keep you healthy and buff you up.”

“I’m a powerhouse.” Sena said, flexing. “I may not be that accurate, but I hit hard!”

“I’m skilled at striking enemy weak points,” Alex said. “Keep them focused on you Mio and I’ll carve them up.” Alexandria said.

As they all nodded, Mio’s sensitive ears twitched, picking up the low whine before any of the others. “Everyone, get ready!” she shouted as she drew her weapons and assumed a defensive stance. 

“Damn!” Da muttered. “How’d they get up here so fast?” Mum’s sword blazed to life in his right hand as Mam’s surged with water in his left. A triangle of golden threads bloomed between them. 

Mio watched in horror as one the durable blast doors sealing off the throne room began to rapidly corrode, then disintegrate. A woman stood amidst the dust clutching a saber in each hand. Dark-element ether slowly ebbed from her weapons as she tossed them back to an unseen Driver. A man’s voice, disturbingly familiar, came from beyond the cloud of debris. “Well done, Atropos. But do not let your guard down so easily. You could have been clear from view by the time the dust cleared, and maintained the element of surprise. Keep that in mind for the future.”

Linka spoke up, “Is the assassin giving a lecture in the middle of the hit? Seriously?”

Mam looked at the Indoline man who entered with disappointment in her eyes. “It’s a pity to see you reduced to this, Oleg. I know you can be so much more than this.” Mio’s mind began to race as she tried to guess at Mam’s meaning. Had this man been an ally in Aionios?

“I know not what you refer to, as this is our first meeting. But I needn’t explain myself to a cannibal, especially not one who aided in killing the Architect. Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos, to me! Monks, engage the others! Leave the cannibal and the Aegis to me!”

“Don’t you dare talk to my wife like that!” Da and Mum yelled out in unison.

Mio took a defensive position between their assailants and her friends as Da added, “If you want a scrap, bring it on!”

 

Sena

The throne room erupted into absolute chaos. Uncle Rex, Auntie Pyra, and Auntie Nia were a sight to behold; the trio carved a scalding path through the throne room, keeping the others healthy all the while. Only the man Auntie Nia called Oleg and his three Blades stood a chance. The others simply drowned to Auntie Nia’s deluge, or melted under the heat of Auntie Pyra’s flames. 

Sena didn’t have time to spectate, though. Anyone that broke through the adults’ defensive line quickly got a taste of Mio’s Dual Moonblades. It was up to Sena to make sure the fight didn’t last long enough for anyone to get a lucky hit in! As Mimi did an impressive backflip, avoiding a monk’s strike, Sena was there to follow up. “Big Impact!” She shouted as her Comet Mallet slammed into the monk, their ribs cracking under the brutal blow, before the momentum of the attack sent them flying backwards into the wall. They didn’t get back up. 

“Well, well!” Alex said after knocking a monk off balance. Uncle Rex’s salvager anchor wrapped around the monk’s leg and pulled them down. “You weren’t kidding about packing a punch, Sena!” She yelled as Linka fried the monk enough to remove them from the fight.

Sena was about to respond when a stray blast of ether hit her in the side. The pain was short-lived, as a wave of healing ether washed over her from Glimmer’s Wildfire Kithara. “Thanks for the save, Glim!”

“Don’t mention it, just return the favor!” Glimmer yelled as she played a melody. Her left eye glowed yellow-green as she became enveloped in a green light for a moment. “Burning Garland!” The ether from the song enveloped their weapons, giving them keen edges and augmenting their strength. 

“Right of-“ a monk began to say before being cut off by Sena driving the augmented Comet Mallet into his stomach. The man lost consciousness. Sena smiled. We’re winning! They don’t stand a chance!

“The end is upon them, Master,” Atropos said.

“Then introduce them to death!” Oleg commanded. 

“I am the one who cuts the thread of fate,” Atropos chanted, plunging one her swords into the ground, “and I proclaim the end of your worlds! Apocalypse!” The woman’s attack sent a wave of darkness across the room, binding the Drivers in place.

“And through this end, I grant you the peace of death.” Oleg finished as he followed up with a horizontal slash that sent a wave of darkness rippling outward. Sena felt herself bound by purple chains. For the first time in her life, Sena felt cold. The Comet Mallet grew heavy in her hands, and she could feel her internal fire sputtering. A quick glance around the room confirmed the others with Blade heritage were equally restrained. “Now, to end the cannibal’s bloodline.” Oleg dove at Mimi, twin sabers in hand.

“Don’t hurt Mimi!” Sena shouted. She felt herself dissolve into light.

 

Lanz/Sena

He/She felt a pair of sharp blades in their side. He/She opened his/her eyes to see Teach pulling his weapons back, fear intermingled with the murderous intent from before. It was only then Lanz/Sena felt the familiar mental presence of their Interlink partner. 

Lanzy? Oh, sparks, I remember you Lanzy!

Here for ya! Catch me up, why’s Teach attacking you?

Oleg had recovered from his initial shock, and was closing in on the helpless trio of Rex, Pyra, and Nia.

I don’t know, but we have to help Uncle Rex, Auntie Pyra, and Auntie Nia!

On it! Supportin’ ya with all the power you need. 

As they began to move across the room to defend, Oleg began his ruthless assault. The weapon in Oleg’s hands changed into a serrated spinning wheel. “For the Architect! For Praetor Amalthus! Life Stream!” The blade carved into Uncle Rex with six vicious hits and knocked him off balance. Oleg moved seamlessly into a different stance, the ice woman’s whip appearing in his hand, “Harsh Truth!” The whip snared Uncle Rex’s ankles and dragged him downwards. Using the attack’s momentum, Oleg transitioned behind Uncle Rex and swung one of the wicked blades of Atropos in an uppercut slash as he cried “Amongst the Stars!” The blow Launched Rex into the air. Lanz/Sena knew there was only one way this could end as the pair reached Oleg, and there was no way they were letting it happen.

They drove their hammer forward with overwhelming force. Their Art sent Oleg, his Blades, and a group of Indoline Monks flying. Sena noted the very unwelcome return of the Interlink timer.

“Hey, Mio!” Lanz called out. “You should know,” Sena’s Ouroboros dodged an attack from the dangerous woman in white. “The Off-Seeing Tune restores memories! Also, Noah says he remembers his promise and plans to make good on it!”

Really, Lanzy? You mean you can remember me even when we’re not Interlinked?

Thanks to Noah playing Mio’s Off-Seeing melody!

“Flame Nova!”

“Hey, that’s my thing!” Auntie Pyra complained as her shackles finally wore off. 

“I don’t think it’s the same Art, Py!” Rex shouted, having finally landed. “Wanna give ‘em a demonstration for comparison?” He asked, tossing her the sword. 

“Flame-,” she said as the blade drew close to her, bound by some unseen force. It began to rotate at rapid speed, before bursting outward in a halo of fire. “-Nova!” Some of the monks who had already been hit simply dropped like a sack of rocks as the attack connected. 

“Sena! And I’m going to guess Lanz! Buy me some time,” Mio called out from behind them. “If we knew Oleg, maybe I can get through to him if he has his memories!”

“This isn’t over yet!” Oleg’s Blade with flowing blue hair cried as she raised her strange weapon above her head. “Tide Turner!” A wave of healing ether washed over her allies, revitalizing them.

“Oh, two can play at that game. Queen/Auntie Nia shouted as an even more potent wave of healing ether bathed her allies in its cool green glow. They looked like they hadn’t been fighting at all!

Snuff man, thought Lanz, when it comes to healing, Queen Nia really can’t be beat.

Mio began to play Noah’s Off-Seeing melody, its distinctive tones washing over the din of battle, amplified by Mio’s innate connection to wind. As the woman in white began to charge Mio, Lanz and Sena were there to intercept. “No way am I letting you past me!" Despite being light on her feet, the woman had nowhere to dodge as they swung their massive hammer in an upwards strike, and the attack sent her flying backwards, skipping on the ground several times before skidding to a stop.

From their right, they heard a trio of voices engaging Atropos.

“This is where I belong!” Nia began.

“All together now!” Rex continued.

“Our bonds are as one!” Pyra finished.

“Nexus Force!” all three shouted at once as a perfect fusion of fire and water came crashing down on the dark Blade.

“Yield abomination!” the watery woman with the spinning wheel yelled out. 

“Nice try." The pair stood their ground, nullifying the attack, much to their assailant’s surprise. She stumbled back to join her allies.

They’re all grouped up now, Sena. I think we have enough time left for a big finisher!

Then let’s do it, Lanzy!

“Try this on!" As the pair’s hammer impacted, it erupted into a fireball of explosive force.

See you soon, weirdo!

 

Oleg

The pressure he’d been feeling in his mind could no longer be suppressed as the cannibal finished its song. Oleg fell to his knees as a blast of heat emanated from the fearsome white creature. His mind was overwhelmed with information, so much so that he nearly passed out on the spot. 

 

Teach

What am I doing? What have I done? I know these people. I care about these people. I left the All-Slayer behind. These are the thoughts that swirled through Teach’s mind as he struggled to stand. Fifty or more lifetimes of memories, swirling back into his mind all at once. The most recent lifetime being particularly poignant. A lifetime where he’d defied the odds and become something better than a ruthless killer, or a blindly loyal attack dog. He’d become a mentor, a companion, and a friend. Someone that brought comfort to others rather than only fear. 

Tearing himself from his thoughts, Teach forced himself to open his eyes. Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos were looking on him with concern for his well being. Rex appeared similarly shaken as himself, but was being attended by the Aegis and the Queen. The children all appeared to be coming to grips with memories as well. Mio was on the ground, sobbing. Several of the younger monks appeared to be struggling as he was. Those that were not looked to him for direction, for orders to continue their murderous rampage in the name of a dead man that thought of them as filth. That order would never come. Teach didn’t give those orders anymore.

Struggling to his feet, Teach held out Atropos’ Fate Sabers and dropped them on the ground. “We surrender.” Shock rippled through his troops, some looking confused, others betrayed. “This assault is wrong and accomplishes nothing. I throw myself and my men upon your judgment, Queen Nia. I merely ask you be merciful, as they have been misguided.”

“Master, what are you saying?!” Atropos seethed in his ear. “Has the cannibal cursed you somehow?”

“Such language will no longer be tolerated in my presence, Atropos. And are you not a bit too old to believe in curses? I assure you, I am in my right mind. More so than I have ever been.”

A group of his soldiers moved to attack. “I ordered you to stand down.” He said calmly, but any who knew him could sense the dangerous current of barely contained anger. “And I do not enjoy repeating myself. Any who move against Queen Nia, her family, or her allies will answer first to my wrath, do I make myself clear? We should not be shedding blood in the name of the late Praetor Amalthus. It is clear to me now that he never had the best interests of the world at heart. I implore you to think on why you joined the order in the first place. Was it not to do good work and spread peace and understanding? I ask you, how is what we came here to do today upholding those ideals? Those of you who wish to start down a new path, a path of peace, lay down your arms.” One by one, the monks dropped their weapons. Eventually, Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos laid down their arms as well.

“Now I’m just bloody confused,” Thunderbolt Zeke said from behind them as he saw the state of the room for the first time. “What the hell is going on here?”

“My soldiers and myself are no longer a threat to your friends or your family,” Teach explained. “Mio has restored an expanded perspective to me. I do not expect myself or my soldiers to escape judgment.” Out of the corner of his eye, Teach saw a monk pull a small mallet from their belt, and make a dive at Mio’s core. The man never even left his spot. Teach’s skilled hand grasped the assailants’ arm, and quickly snapped the wrist. Ignoring the cries of pain, he drove his palm into the renegade monk’s chest and swept his legs out from under him. As the monk grasped his broken wrist, Teach turned to address the room. “Anyone else want to try their luck? I would personally prefer not to break any more bones this evening.”

Notes:

So many first appearances this chapter! I really love Juniper and Fiona as characters, so it was very fun to write them. Zeke is a project to write, but very rewarding to get right. Crossette runs a roller skate diner with a spicy twist. The attack on the throne room was one of the hardest, yet most satisfying scenes to write for me so far.

Chapter 5: Thoughts of a Friend

Summary:

The immediate aftermath of the attack on the throne room is dealt with, as those within process their returned memories of Aionios. Taion is forced to ask for help. Noah, Eunie, and Lanz meet with Melia for the first time since the worlds divided. Nikol and Riku work on Crys’ birthday present in secret. We check in with Alvis for the first time.

Notes:

Crys is fifteen years old, and Nikol is twelve.

Glimmer

As Mom and the Royal guard began rounding up their assailants, Glimmer’s head was a mess. Her body both felt familiar and totally alien. Her left hip no longer ached, her breath came much easier, and her eyesight was clearer than it had been in decades. But that was ridiculous, she was only ten! Or was she eighty-four? Of course she wasn’t, people could only live to their tenth term. No, Aionios was over, terms didn’t exist anymore. Where was Nikol? She needed to talk to her husband about this. She stopped as she remembered. Right. Nikol had died four years ago. Ember and Velkis had been so supportive. They really were good kids. Wait, hadn’t she died? No, she was very clearly still alive. Hell, she felt incredible. She felt a hand on her shoulder. For once, it wasn’t colder than her. 

“Glimmer? Sweetheart?” A kind stranger’s voice asked. “Take deep breaths, honey, Mum is here for you.”

“Mum? I’m really confused. How do I know you? Like, I know I know you, but I’m lost. I know I’m not making any sense.”

“Why don’t you start by just telling me one thing at a time, ok? I can help correct you if you’re confused.”

“Ok. I’ll try it.” Taking a deep breath, she started with the most basic piece of information she knew. “My name is Doctor Glimmer Rhodes.” Mum nodded, though she seemed surprised at the title. “I’m eighty-four years old. But also ten?”

“Sweetie, I’m not sure about up here,” Mum said while tapping her forehead, “but to me, you look like the same ten-year-old girl as this morning.”

“So I was ten this morning, but eighty-four yesterday.”

“As far as I know, Glimmer, you were ten yesterday too.”

The timeline of events finally clicked in Glimmer’s head, and the headache she’d been experiencing cleared up. “Okay, I think I understand what happened. I know who I am and who you are, Mum.” She sighed. “Mum, does anything normal ever happen to our family?”

“What, most of your childhood doesn’t count now?” Mum said, feigning offense. “We do normal things!” Mum had a serious look on her face again. “Glimmer, how old do you feel?”

“I don’t really know. It’s hard to feel ten when I’m a grandma, but I don’t exactly feel eighty-four either.” She climbed to her feet with Mum’s help. “This is just going to be really sparking odd I think.”

“Glimmer, you really shouldn’t swear.”

Glimmer rolled her eyes. “Really Mum? I’ve killed people, you realize that, right?”

“I’m sorry, you just look like my little girl,” Mum admitted, “it’s a hard habit to break.”

“Long story short, anyone with memories of Aionios needs to see a therapist as soon as possible.” Glimmer began walking over to join Mam and Mio. “While there’s certainly no precedent for this, it’s my professional opinion that recovering five thousand years worth of traumatic memories in an instant can’t be good for you.”

Out of the corner of her eye, Glimmer could see Alexandria talking with Mom. Her most immediate concern was Mio, though. Mam had the sobbing girl wrapped in her arms, and was holding her close as she could. Behavorial health wasn’t her specialty, but she knew enough to help Mio through the immediate situation. 

“Hey there, Mio. Your big sis is here now.” Glimmer placed a hand on Mio’s back and started focusing a low heat through it. “Can you talk me through what’s going through your head right now?”

“I miss N-Noah. We made a promise, and now I’m r-really scared,” she managed to get out before sobs overtook her again. “W-what if we never get to visit each other?”

“Hey, you can still Interlink, right?”

“Yeah, but I can’t hold him like that. I c-can’t start a family like that!” Mio’s face distorted into a mask of frustration. “I’ve got all these feelings and this little body can’t handle them!”

“That’s to be expected, sis. Your brain isn’t as developed as it was when you were in Aionios. Of course you’re struggling with all these adult emotions.”

“Wait, Glimmer, I read your statue in the City. You were eighty-four! You must be struggling even more than I am!”

“Okay, first of all, this isn’t about me right now; we’re taking care of you. And second, you shouldn’t place a valuation on your suffering. Everyone’s struggles are unique, so you shouldn’t discount your own. Yeah, I lived a full life in Aionios, but you know what never happened to me?”

“What?”

“I was never made Moebius against my will. I never had an abusive relationship for four thousand years, only for my next incarnation to fall in love with my abuser’s next incarnation. And for those incarnations to have a healthy, loving relationship despite everything Aionios threw at them. My point is that your suffering is valid and so is other people’s.”

Glimmer saw something click in Mio’s eyes. Her ears dropped in guilt.

“Glim?” Mio said, wiping her eyes, “I’m so sorry.”

“And what, exactly, are you apologizing for?”

“When we restored Origin, resetting the worlds meant destroying the City. All of House Rhodes would have been destroyed with them.”

That fact hit Glimmer like a Levnis. All of her descendants would have been lost to Aionios. She took a seat next to Mio, although in Mum’s arms in this case. “Mio, you did what you had to. I understand that.”

It was Mam that chimed in next, “And remember, the people of the City knew what defeating Moebius meant for them.”

“You did the right thing, kiddo.” Da said as he joined the group. “You gave everybody a world where they had a chance at a real future. Where livin’ to see tomorrow doesn’t have to mean killin’ today.”

“Besides,” Mom said, “wouldn’t you rather have the memories and the feelings, even the painful ones? Better than forgetting all those people you cared about.”

“I want to help people,” Mio said. “I want to help them remember Aionios if they want to. But even more than that, I want to find a way for our worlds to meet again. Too many people lost relationships, friends or otherwise, to the worlds pulling apart.”

“We need to find Taion!” Sena exclaimed as she joined the group. “Oh gosh, Mimi, if he has any lingering thoughts like we did…”

“He probably thinks he’s going mad. He’ll exhaust himself looking for answers!” Mio began to stand up as another thought clearly crossed her mind. 

“What’s up, sis?”

“I saw Ontos! In the in-between space when Noah and I were Interlinked!”

Fear gripped Glimmer’s heart. “What do you mean, you saw Ontos?”

“There was this androgynous looking person with long silver hair.” Mio explained, and the fear in Glimmer’s heart shifted to concern. “Their earring was a red Aegis Core! They looked like they were in a lot of pain.”

“That wasn’t Ontos. Ontos doesn’t exist anymore. You saw A. And if they’re in trouble, we have to help them. We owe them everything. Me especially.”

 

Taion

“Explain yourself.” Mikhail ordered him. “What made you pull a weapon on Irma?”

“That’s what I’m trying to tell you! I don’t understand why either,” Taion attempted to explain. “All I know is I thought of her as something called ‘Moebius’ and that Fiona was in mortal danger if she stayed near her. I’m fully aware that makes no sense, but that’s what went through my mind.”

“As soon as Taion stopped acting on instinct and thought,” Juniper added, “he no longer saw Irma as a threat. His stance changed immediately. And there’s something else he’s got to tell you.”

“Oh, do go on.” Mikhail leaned in closer. He still had his jovial exterior, but Taion could tell he was deadly serious underneath it. “I’m all ears.”

“After the Intersection I woke up with a start. I noticed several abnormal symptoms, and I’ve had a deep craving for Mist Tree tea. Which, as far as I can tell from my research, is not a type of tree that exists in Alrest.”

“So basically, you pulled a weapon on your friend for no reason and you’re craving nonexistent tea. And you don’t know why you targeted her, specifically.” Mikhail leaned back and placed his feet on his desk. “That doesn’t leave me with a whole lotta options, Taion. I mean, your situation is clearly linked to the Intersection. But because we don’t know what about Irma linked her to this ‘Moebius’ you mentioned, I can’t guarantee the safety of anyone you haven’t already spoken with since the Intersection. I have to consider the safety of everyone in our little sanctuary.”

“I concur. I don’t like what happened, and until I can learn more about Moebius, I’m a liability.”

“Well, that’s a bit harsher than I put it. Still, you’re not wrong. My initial thought is to isolate you from folks for a bit. You’d still see me, Juniper, and Fiona, but for now, everyone else is off-limits, including Irma.”

That’s assuming Fiona will ever speak to me again, Taion thought.

“Mikhail, sir,” Juniper piped up, “This plan keeps people safe, but it doesn’t solve the root of the matter. It doesn’t help us figure out what’s happening to Taion.”

“I thought of that, Juniper. While Taion’s all locked up, I’m going to reach out to an old friend of mine and ask her to look into it.” Mikhail said, his eyes grimacing as his mouth smiled. “She’s directly connected to the designers of the Origin project. We go way back, so I think she’ll at least hear me out.”

He’s lying. He’s not sure if this contact will react positively to him. This isn’t a plan, it’s a prayer. I’ll need to develop alternative measures. Also, who would Mikhail know that helped develop Origin? I thought that was an Agnian-led project. Taion moved to adjust his scarf. Wait, my what? Since when have I worn scarves? Is this getting worse?

Mikhail stood up. “Okay, I’m going to go call that friend. You two, stay put and try not to kill anyone.”

Staying in prison isn’t going to solve anything. There’s a few three-person crafts at the docks. Provided I can get my hands on an operating manual, I should be able to pilot one adequately enough to reach Leftherian Territory. They have the loosest border policies outside of Agnus proper, but to get to Agnus, I’d need to pass by both Uraya and Mor Ardain-controlled waters. No chance I could get past undetected. 

“What’s going through your head, Taion?” Juniper asked them. 

“Oh, just thinking about everything we know so far about what happened,” he lied. “It’s frustratingly little to work with.” I’ll have a ‘moment’ later where I suddenly ‘remember’ something about the crafts. That should be enough to secure a manual.

“It really wasn’t like you, Taion. You must think these Moebius people are seriously dangerous if you drew on Irma like that.”

Even hearing the word, Taion felt a pit growing in his stomach. Whatever Moebius were, his body was not a fan, that much was certain. “I agree. Even hearing the name sets me on edge.” I’ll need two co-pilots though. Juniper shouldn’t be too hard to convince. I wouldn’t be able to sneak past them anyway with their Gormotti senses. I won’t even have to tell them the plan, they’ll come ‘to keep me safe’. The only qualifying person for the third slot would be Fiona, since I know I won’t attack her and she’s not associated with this Moebius, as I considered them her enemies. But how to go about convincing her when I’m pretty sure she is, justifiably, absolutely furious with me?

“Taion, are you even listening to me?” Juniper’s voice broke his concentration. 

“I’m sorry, I must have let my mind wander.”

“Don’t try that with me, Taion. What are you planning?”

“A potential solution to my problem. It’s only half an idea, but I don’t fancy the thought of indefinite house arrest.”

“So you’d just abandon us?” Juniper said, surprisingly calmly. “After everything we’ve been through together? The mercenaries, the Indoline monks, the torture, finally finding a safe haven?”

“I didn’t say that. I never planned on leaving any of you behind. I’m calculating, not heartless.” Taion sighed. “I maintain my aloof attitude precisely because I care about you all. Someone needs to keep a level head to make sure we don’t get hurt again.”

“Taion, do you blame yourself for what happened to us?”

“Of course, I’m the one that led the group right to us.”

“Taion, you were five!” Juniper shouted. “Nothing important could have been your fault. You were taken advantage of by those monsters in men’s clothes. But that’s not on your head. None of us blame you for what happened that night!”

“You all really don’t hold me responsible?” Taion asked incredulously. 

“Of course we don't, Taion!” Juniper answered. “But I am really worried about you. You’d never draw your weapon unless you intended to use it. The fact that Irma’s voice was enough to make you draw on its own, how could I not worry?”

“Then I have some things I need you to do, Juniper.” Taion adjusted his glasses. “Mikhail was lying to us; he doesn’t know if this contact of his will come through. We need to take matters into our own hands.”

“What do you need me to do?”

“I’m going to write a letter to Irma detailing my plan and my reasoning for leaving her behind. I need you to deliver it.” Taion paused. “And, I need you to have Fiona at the docks by ten pm this evening. Leave the rest to me.”

 

Eunie

“Oi’, you lot!” Eunie called out. “Lanz is back!”

“What happened?” Joran asked. 

“Why did you need to Interlink?” Noah added. 

“Sena needed my help,” Lanz replied. “Teach and a bunch of weirdos that looked like him were attacking Mio and her family.”

“Teach? Why was he attacking Mio?” Noah asked. 

“Not sure, mate, but I’ve got a guess. You know how some folks in our world aren’t too keen on Machina?”

“Snuffin’ idiots, you mean?” Eunie said defensively. She really sparking hated bigots. That had been one of the few good things about the Flame Clocks; you were always too concerned with dying to have time for pointless prejudice. 

“Yeah, like them.” Lanz nodded. “From the way he was talking, it didn’t sound like Teach was too keen on folks with crystals like Mio or Queen Nia.”

Noah clenched his fists. “Why can’t people just let people live their lives in peace?”

“I managed to let Mio know about the Off-Seeing melody. She was trying to restore Teach’s memories mid-fight to get through to him.” The group cheered. “Sena and I were running interference to buy her time. We ran up against the time limit before I could see the result. Fight was going in our favor though. Sena and I really tipped the scales.”

“That’s a relief.” Eunie sighed. 

“Gotta say though, Mio’s whole family is as strong and tough as she is. Watching them fight was kinda awesome,” Lanz admitted. 

Whatever Joran was about to say was cut off by the young guard from earlier approaching their group. “Good evening. My name is Lieutenant Mir’liez,” the High Entia man said. “We’ve been interviewing your peers for a few hours now and it’s pretty clear that the four of you are involved in this incident somehow.”

“Yeah, and what of it?” Lanz replied defensively. 

“Easy now, kid. I just want to ask you four a couple questions about the event. Do any of you have parents with you or a legal guardian of some kind?”

“That would be me,” Noah’s mom spoke up. “My name is Commander Emmy Leater of the Colony 9 Defence Force. Good to meet you, Lieutenant. I’m Noah’s mother. These are Lanz, Joran, and Eunie. I’m taking care of them this weekend as well.”

“Excellent, the pleasure’s all mine ma’am. If you could all follow me please.” He led the group from the reception area of the Imperial Palace.

Eunie couldn’t get over how different this place was from Keves Castle. The metal plating had been changed out for this sleek, but sturdy-looking material. The same mural of their world’s old titans locked in combat remained unchanged. It’s crazy that she hadn’t recognized it in Aionios. Somehow, Melia’s home was even more impressive and elegant than it had been in Aionios. 

Mir’liez interrupted her thoughts, “Please, step into the teleporter. Once you have reached the other side, please stand clear.” Mir’liez entered and vanished.

“Well, that’s a lot faster than the elevators, huh?” Lanz asked before stepping through. Eunie stepped through after him.  

On the other side, she was greeted not by a walkway flanked with water, but a set of clear stairs gilded with golden railings. Once her mates and Noah’s mom had all come through, Mir’liez led them up into the throne room. 

The throne room itself couldn’t have been more different from Keves Castle’s version. Gone were the cradles, the light blue light fixtures, and wall of glass. Instead, the room was a cream color. A carpet ran down the center from the throne to the stairs. Above the throne was a tablet written in ancient High Entian. Along the walls were tapestries that depicted the story of how their world was almost destroyed by its creator; had it not been for the races of Bionis and Mechonis banding together, they would have been annihilated. In fact, that’s where the name of their nation came from; Keves meant unity in ancient High Entian.

Flanking the throne were two banners; the left bearing the Kevesi emblem and the right bearing the emblem of House Antiqua. On either side  behind the throne were a pair of teleporters.

Emerging from the teleporter on her left was a High Entian woman dressed in all black. She had the largest headwings Eunie had ever seen. She immediately felt a pang of jealousy. Her own wings weren’t small, not by any means, but this woman looked like she could actually fly using hers. 

Mir’liez stopped the moment he saw her, and stood at attention. She whispered something to him, and Mir’liez gasped.

“Understood, Lady Tyrea.” Mir’liez turned back to the group. “There has been a change of plans. Empress Melia Antiqua has summoned Noah, Eunie, and Lanz, as well as anyone accompanying them, personally. Please follow Lady Tyrea.”

Lady Tyrea turned around and walked through the same teleporter she entered from without so much as a word. 

“D’ya think she remembers too?” Eunie asked as Noah stepped through.

“I sure as snuff can’t think of another reason she’d ask for us by name.” Lanz replied as he too stepped through.

Man, I really wish I’d worn something a bit nicer, Eunie thought as she stepped through. I feel more snuffin’ underdressed than when I went to that Armu Steakhouse in the City with Taion the first time. Her heart ached at the noticeable absence of her Interlink partner’s voice lecturing the group or the feeling of his palm in hers to ease her shaking. 

The group stood outside a door emblazoned with House Antiqua’s seal. Tyrea turned to them and spoke, “I have been instructed to treat you all as honored guests. I suggest you do not do anything to make me question that decision.”

Eunie watched Lanz bristle at Tyrea’s threat, and she had to stop herself from audibly sighing. I mean, really Lanz? She’s obviously just being snuffin’ careful of the Empress. As well she should be! She doesn’t know us!

Tyrea held something she couldn’t see up to the sigil. It glowed gold and the door vanished, allowing Eunie to see into the bedchambers beyond. It was as it had been in Aionios, with the exception of a whole crowd of oddly familiar-feeling strangers. 

A Homs woman in a white coat with an ether rifle strapped to her back was speaking with a Machina woman. There were three Nopon, the bright orange one clearly older than the others, a pink one that looked like she could deadlift Lanz one-winged, and a lime-green one that looked concerned more than anything. A Homs man built like Lanz in Aionios was speaking to another Homs man who appeared to be unable to use his right arm and a Homs woman decked out in the fanciest, coolest power frame Eunie had ever seen. Where can I get one of those? Eunie thought to herself before turning her attention back to the room. 

Sitting at the side of the bed was the first familiar face she saw, and it wasn’t the Empress. A blond Homs man was engaged in conversation with Melia. Eunie almost hadn’t recognized him with his hair shorter and both arms intact. There was no mistaking the weapon he had on his back though; that was the Monado REX+, which meant this could only be one man. 

“Shulk, is that really you man?” Lanz shouted, surprised, apparently having recognized the man too. The room fell silent at his outburst. Shulk turned to face them, but Eunie could see no familiarity in his eyes.

“I’m terribly sorry, but I don’t recognize you.” Shulk answered. “Did we meet in Aionios? I’m afraid the only things I know about that world are what Melia has told me and disconnected feelings of unexplained familiarity.”

“Lanz, where are your snuffin’ manners?” Eunie chided him. “Apologies, your Majesty, but he can be a right muppet sometimes. Thank you for seeing us.”

Looking closer at the Empress, Eunie immediately grew concerned. She was pale as a sheet, and looked unhealthily thin. Her plumage even looked faded, losing its normal sheen. “But enough about that,” Eunie asked, “are you feelin’ ok? Your Majesty!” She added quickly.

“I appreciate your concern, Eunie. I have been better but I am on the mend,” Melia spoke from her bed, seemingly unable to sit up and greet them. “Judging by your familiar tone, I take it you too have retained your memories of Aionios.”

“More or less,” Lanz responded.

“We had no memories at first, your Majesty” Noah clarified. “We only properly remembered Aionios once I played Mio’s Off-Seeing melody.”

“If you all do have your memories, please, do not feel the need to use my title. We are good friends, and should behave as such.” Her eyes fell on Noah’s mom and Joran. “My word, Commander Leater. It has been far too long since we’ve spoken. With you in the room, I can see Noah’s resemblance. You’ve raised a fine young man.”

“Thank you, your Majesty.”

“And I believe this is the first time we’ve met, Joran.”

“It’s an honor, Empress Melia.”

“Allow me to introduce my friends,” Melia spoke. “You’re all familiar with Shulk. The woman in the power frame is a formidable warrior, an accomplished chef, and Shulk’s wife, Fiora.”

“On behalf of the Ortiz family, it’s a pleasure to meet you all!” Fiora responded enthusiastically.

Ortiz? Like the house in the City? Y’know, now that I think about it, the statue for House Ortiz did look a lot like Shulk and Fiora. 

Gesturing to the woman in the white coat, Melia spoke again, “This is Doctor Sharla Reid and,” gesturing now to the wall of solid muscle, “this is her husband, Reyn.”

“Nice to meet the heroes of the day in person!” the doctor said.

Eunie spoke up, “Wait a sparkin’ minute, you said your last name was Reid? You’re Shania’s great times a billion grandparents then?”

Sharla nodded. “I’m terribly sorry for the how my descendant’s behavior affected you all.”

“Yeah. Not sure how our descendants got so cold,” Reyn said. “That’s really not what we’re about.”

“Moving on,” Melia interjected, “we have Riki, the Legendary Heropon, and two of his children, Kino and Nene.”

“Is pleasure to make acquaintance, friends of Melly!” Nene spoke.

“Kino happy to meet friends also!”

“Friends rescue Melly and worlds! Riki Happy Happy!”

“This is Doctor Linada,” Melia gestured at the other Machina in the room who waved politely. 

“And finally, Dunban.”

“It’s an honor to meet you all in person,” the middle-aged Homs said. “The tales of your exploits left me in awe. You never swayed away from the chance to change your destinies.”

Snuff, he’s cool. I feel like I’ve seen him before though, not just around the Colony either. Spark, this is gonna bother me until I figure it out, innit?

Melia spoke again and snapped Eunie out of her reverie. “Now, Noah. You said you were able to recover your memories by playing Mio’s Off-Seeing tune. Is that what happened at the Fountain of Eternity?”

“Yes, although I didn’t know that’s what would happen at the time,” Noah explained. “Once I started playing the piece, I couldn’t stop. It was only after I finished playing that I realized the implications of what I’d done.”

Noah’s mom made an odd face. “Sorry,” she explained, “I’m still not used to hearing you speak so maturely.”

“In any case, we should be more cautious about playing that song in the future,” Melia cautioned. “That being said, I do think there is value in the memories of Aionios. If it is alright with your mother, Noah, I would be happy to begin work on a program to help restore people’s memories in a controlled environment.”

“I have no problem with the idea, but I’d want certain protections in place,” Noah’s mom replied. 

“Restoring memories is great and all,” Lanz acknowledged, “but how are we gonna reunite the worlds? There’s gonna be a lotta people missing each other once memories start comin’ back. Plus, the City folk deserve a shot at bein’ born.”

“That’s more complicated,” Shulk sighed, “Origin isn’t exactly fully operational at the moment. I’ve barely had the time to make sense of what happened with Moebius, much less start on a plan for a safe unification.”

“Well, best get started,” Lanz said, “because from where I’m standing, that should be our number one priority.”

I knew Lanz was an idiot, but that spoon is going to get us all killed if he doesn’t learn when to shut up!

“Impudent boy, you cannot just waltz into the Imperial Bedchambers and start making demands,” Tyrea snarled. 

“At ease, Tyrea.” Melia ordered. 

Sparks, Melia’s impressive, Eunie thought. How does she manage to sound regal and authoritative while she can’t even sit up?

“Lanz is absolutely right. There are many who made friends from Alrest in Aionios. And on a personal level, there are individuals I would dearly like to see again in person, Queen Nia first and foremost.” Pausing for a moment, she continued, “I am unfortunately exhausted. While I would love to begin working to develop the memory recovery plan, I need to rest. I do think it would be beneficial for you to play for Shulk, Noah.”

“I would be most grateful, Noah. Any insight I can get into Origin will help me.”

“Just be warned, man.” Lanz said. “The process is snuffin’ intense.”

“Duly noted,” Shulk responded, taking a seat next to his wife. 

Noah brought his flute to his lips and began to play Mio’s Off-Seeing melody. The effect on the room was immediate, yet unexpected. For one, Noah’s Blade manifested. Even stranger, Sharla, Reyn, Fiora, Kino, Nene, Dunban, and Riki all grabbed their heads like Shulk had. The music continued unabated, and Eunie could feel the tension in the air as Lucky Seven resonated within Truthsinger. She rushed to support the people in the room caught off guard by the song, cursing internally at her ten-year-old body’s lack of physical strength. As the song reached its conclusion, Truthsinger formed the gauntlet on Noah’s arm, leaving Lucky Seven exposed. 

“Is everyone alright?” Melia asked from her bed.

“More or less,” Fiora answered, “but I’m very confused. I thought the song would only affect those of us with memories of Aionios.”

Noah grasped Lucky Seven, attempting to calm the excited blade. “Is everyone okay?”

“Nene having strange thoughts.”

“Kino’s head feel strange too. Have memories of slicey-dicey, but body feel different.”

“Odd,” Shulk said, “my memories of Aionios seem just fine.”

“That’s great, mate,” Reyn said, “but that don’t explain why I suddenly know what it feels like to slice a Moebius Core.”

“Ah,” Melia said from her bed, “I believe I may know what happened. Noah, Lucky Seven is forged from Origin Metal. That metal possesses a unique property to house souls. Lucky Seven was forged from a piece that housed seven souls that were very dear to me.”

Something clicked in Eunie’s mind. “That’s why you all felt so snuffin’ familiar! You were with us the whole sparking time!”

“So we have memories of millennia as a sword?” Fiora asked. 

“What a fascinating experience,” Dunban mused. “I never thought I would know the feelings of skillfully wielded steel.”

“Yes, yes, that’s all well and good,” Linada spoke, “but the Empress needs to rest! Everybody out!”

We were traveling with the Saviors of Bionis and Mechonis the whole snuffin’ time in Aionios. Well, spark me, I guess.

 

Nikol

Riku examined Nikol’s latest project, a machine designed to turn pages for a performer, with his eyes glowing with approval. “Yes, just like that. Very well done, Nikol. Riku especially impressed by soldering technique.”

“Thank you!” Nikol beamed under the praise, “I’ve been really practicing.”

“Now, to see in action.”

Nodding, Nikol reached into his bag for the old sheet music he had ‘acquired’ from Crys’ bedroom in Colony 9. He placed it on the stand and put the machine in position. With bated breath, Nikol depressed the pedal with his left foot. Seamlessly, the contraption flipped to the next page. Then it made a horrific screeching noise as it returned to its neutral position. 

“Hmmm. I wonder why it made that sound,” Nikol wondered aloud. “The joints are properly aligned and lubricated. What could have gone wrong?”

“Let Riku take look. Second set of eyes always helpful.” After double-checking the joints, Riku piped up, “Ah. Here is friend’s problem.” He pulled a strange mineral from between one of the joints. The stone was a brilliant yellow-orange, with many concentric layers. It glowed like ether crystals, but appeared incredibly resilient as well. Nikol had never seen anything like it before. “This caught between joints. Prevent mechanism from reset properly. Left in strange cavity in device. It odd, though. Riku never seen stone like this before.”

“Neither have I. It’s beautiful, though.”

“It gorgeous mineral, that for certain,” the Nopon said. “Riku unsure what to make of unusual stone. Riku know all discovered mineral of Bionis and beyond. Riku highly suspicious of unknown mineral appearing out of nowhere in Nikol’s guest bedroom.”

“I think it’s odd too. I definitely would have remembered placing that in the device.” Nikol’s thoughts were interrupted as they heard the sounds of the teleporter. “Crys is early! Help me hide it, quick!” Without another word between them, Riku and Nikol quickly returned the device to its compact shape and placed it inside Nikol’s backpack.

The moment the device had been successfully hidden, the door to the guest bedroom slid open and Crys stepped through. “Hey there, Nikol, Riku,” Crys greeted them. “What were you two up to while I was gone?”

Nikol’s throat seized up as he realized he hadn’t actually come up with a cover story for Crys.

“Riku showing Nikol designs for new Levnis. It have particularly clever solution for heat management, so wanted Nikol to see.”

The ease with which Riku could lie scared Nikol a little sometimes. “It’s really awesome.”

“That’s great, Nikol! Do you want to hear what I’ve been practicing?”

“Sure.”

Crys began to play an upbeat little tune, filled with a bouncing energy that was hard to describe. It was really catchy, and Nikol found himself swaying to the beat. When he finished, Crys said, “It’s actually inspired by your dad, Riku. I’m thinking of calling it ‘Riki the Legendary Heropon.’”

“Song fit dadapon to a T,” Riku said.

“That was really good Crys!”

“I thought so as well,” Mom’s voice came from the doorway. As Nikol looked up, he could see Dad had come back as well. Nikol was surprised to see his Dad with both his arms. Wait, Dad never lost an arm. Why am I surprised?

“Mom, Dad! You’re back!” Crys said. 

“Yes, and I’m sorry I was away last night,” Dad said sheepishly as he pulled Nikol and Crys into a hug. “I got lost looking through the logs in Origin.”

“Thank you for looking after the boys, Riku,” Mom said. 

“Riku happy to help. Shulk and Fiora family, after all.”

“I insist you stay for dinner. My treat. Crys, would you mind lending me a hand in the kitchen in a few minutes? I need to get out of this power frame, then I’ll join you.”

“Sure Mom.”

As soon as Mom and Crys left the room, Nikol began asking Dad questions, “So what did you find in Origin? Did you figure out what happened? Can I come with you?”

“Easy there, one question at a time,” Dad laughed. “It’s a bit complicated to explain. I haven’t had a lot of time to go over it. I spent most of the day with Melia. A lot happened during the Intersection. I’m not sure Origin is entirely safe right now.” Nikol’s face fell. “I promise I’ll take you with me once I know it’s safe. How’s your project coming along?”

“It’s been going pretty well, actually,” Nikol answered. “It almost worked perfectly when I tested it earlier. It would have closed properly too if this strange mineral hadn’t been wedged in the closing mechanism.” Nikol produced the odd stone and gave it to Dad. 

A shocked expression appeared on Dad’s face. “Nikol, where did you find this?”

After making sure to lock the door, Nikol retrieved the machine from his backpack. He showed Dad the perfectly smooth spherical indent where he found the mystery mineral. “What is it, Dad?”

“It’s a mineral called Enigmatter,” he explained, “and it shouldn’t be possible for it to exist.”

“What do you mean, Dad?”

“This mineral can only form under extremely specific conditions.”

“What type of conditions Shulk mean?”

“Enigmatter is a byproduct of something called an Annihilation Event,” Dad explained, “and they should only have been possible while the two worlds overlapped. Nikol, Riku, did you notice anything odd tonight?”

“Riku not see anything out of ordinary.”

“A while ago, I did notice some black smoke coming from the machine, but I couldn’t find the source,” Nikol replied. “I though it was odd, since there’s no fuel for this device; it works purely on mechanical energy input from the user and gravity to reset.”

Dad’s brow furrowed. “Are you sure it was smoke, Nikol? Could it have been fog?”

“I suppose. I was more focused on finding the source than the actual smoke. Is everything going to be okay?” Nikol asked worriedly.

“Your Mom and I will make sure of it,” Dad reassured him. “In the meantime, though, if you encounter any black fog, you need to get yourself out of there immediately. Promise me, Nikol.”

“I promise I’ll get away from it.”

“Thank you, Nikol.”

Dad, Riku, and Nikol spent the next half hour discussing Nikol’s project for Crys, including Dad volunteering to take Nikol out to purchase some replacement metal to patch the odd cavity left behind by the mineral. Nikol asked about how Dad created Mom’s power frame’s Conduit emulator. It was slow going to explain, but Dad was patient and broke down anything Nikol didn’t understand. 

“Boys!” Mom called from dining room. “Wash up! Dinner’s almost ready!”

The trio put their conversation on pause as they got up to go eat. 

 

Alvis

Alvis was in agony. They could barely think through their pain as they struggled to support Origin. The initial plan, of course, had been to have Origin separate after the worlds recombined. That wasn’t an option anymore, not with the memories and souls of Aionios stored in Origin. Everyone who had people they cared about in Aionios from the original worlds was depending on them to keep Origin operational. Even more importantly, were the people of the City. Without Alvis, the Ark would go dormant and all of those people would be lost forever. So no matter what, they had to hold on. I have to have faith in everyone. Another jolt of pain shot through them as Origin attempted its shutdown sequence once again. 

Please, Shulk. Hurry. I don’t know how much longer I can endure these Annihilation Events.

Notes:

Glimmer has a rough go of things. She’s the only kid from Agnus that got full on released from the cycle and grew old. Get yourself a friend like Juniper that’s 100% willing to both call you out on and support your bullshit as the situation dictates. Riku continues to be an enigma. Nikol has a hero-worship thing going on with Crys. Alvis is having a time.

Chapter 6: Parental Bond

Summary:

Taion’s plan is put into action. Rex and his wives have a deep discussion about how to raise war veterans in children’s bodies. The Kevesi Ouroboros have their hands full dealing with their new reality. Three people have their memories restored, with varying results.

Notes:

Leftheria is a semi-independent territory that falls under the protection of the Agnus Queendom.

Taion

Taion put down the owner’s manual for the Tricera class vessel and rubbed his temples. It had been an even more dull read than he had anticipated, but he was confident he could captain a crew and reach Leftheria. He moved to take a seat at the small desk he’d been provided. He steeled himself and began drafting his letter to Irma. 

 

Irma,

I want to begin by apologizing for putting this all in a letter instead of speaking to you face-to-face. I worry for your safety should we meet again in person before I uncover what exactly is going on with me. That being said, I must offer my sincerest apologies for drawing my Blade on you. I am horrified at the thought of hurting you. I do not know what Moebius is, nor why I associate you so strongly with them. Rest assured, I will not stop until I uncover these reasons and can safely be around you again, if you would still deign to associate with me. 

That brings me to my next apology. I am sorry for leaving you alone here. I cannot find the answers I seek by remaining in the Sanctuary. The adults would never permit me to leave, so I needed to secure a way to Agnus to find the answers I’m looking for. The Tricera class ships are the only vessels I stand a chance at crewing, and they require three people to pilot. I do not want to hurt you or anyone else, and so my options for crewing the ship were extremely limited. The only people I trust enough are Fiona and Juniper. 

I swear to you, on my life, the moment I understand what is going on I will bring them back, safe and sound.

 

Hoping to still be friends,

Taion

 

Reading over the letter no fewer than five times, Taion was at last satisfied with it. He sealed it in an envelope, wrote Irma’s name on the front, and tapped his face to the left of his left eye to bring up his Iris. Juniper’s face greeted him. 

“Juniper, the letter is ready. Can you come get it before you retrieve Fiona?”

“Sure, I’ll stop by.”

“Excellent. I’ll see you soon then.”

After a few minutes, Taion heard a knock on the door to his cell. The meal slot slid open, revealing Juniper’s face on the other side. 

“Here you are, Juniper,” Taion slid the letter through the slot, while surreptitiously palming the keys Juniper had procured.

“I’ll make sure she gets it,” Juniper reassured him. 

“Thank you. I appreciate it. See you tomorrow.” The last part was a lie for the benefit of any unwanted listening ears. Thankfully, Juniper followed his lead.

“See you tomorrow. Try and get some rest.” As his friend left, Taion set an alarm and laid down on his bed to nap. All that was left was to wait for the alarm and enact the plan. Before he could drift off, he was plagued once again by a craving for the taste of a tea that doesn’t exist.

 

Fiona

Fiona was exhausted. Irmee had been inconsolable ever since Tai T- Taion had summoned his Blade on her, but Fiona had finally managed to calm her down enough to get her to sleep. She still couldn’t make sense of what had happened that night. Sure, Irmee and I fight sometimes, she thought, but she would never hurt me! What had Taion called her? Moebius? Fiona had never heard that word before, but he’d acted like she was sitting between a volff pup and its mother. Fiona knew it must have something to do with the Intersection. Juni had suggested as much and Juni was super smart.

Maybe I’m being too harsh on Tai Tai? The four of us have been besties since before those awful people had found us. That’s why she was so shocked; the Tai Tai she knew would never do something like that. It didn’t make any sense and it made her head hurt. Try as she might to give Tai Tai the benefit of the doubt, when it came to Irmee, Fiona was even more protective of her than the others. Even she didn’t know why. But whenever Irmee’s safety or happiness was concerned, Fiona just couldn’t think rationally. All Fiona could do right now was hope Mikle-Pickle had been able to get Tai Tai the help he needed. She changed into her pajamas in one of the communal changing rooms, then made her way towards her bed. As she came back into the dorms, she saw Juni standing near Irmee’s bunk, still fully dressed, as Irmee slept fitfully. Juni’s ears twitched as Fiona entered the room and they quietly began to walk over to her. 

“How is Tai Tai?” Fiona whispered. 

“He’s really distraught about what happened,” Juni whispered back. “Mikhail has him in solitary confinement.” They paused for a moment before continuing, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen him so upset.”

Now Fiona felt bad for ever doubting Tai Tai. “He’s really that upset?” 

Juni nodded, then they said “He has a plan to try and fix things. But he needs our help.”

“I’d never leave a friend behind. What can I do to help?”

“He said to meet him by the docks soon.”

“How did he get out of his cell?” Fiona asked. Juni blushed. “Juni!” She scolded them in a whisper, “You didn’t!”

“I may have relocated the keys,” Juni admitted sheepishly.

“We’d best get going then! I’ll wake Irmee,” she said as she got up (stubbing her horns on the bunk above hers, ouch!) before Juni grabbed her arm. “What’s wrong, Juni?”

“Taion doesn’t want Irma to come with us,” they explained. “He’s worried he won’t be able to control himself if he gets triggered again.”

“So we’re just leaving her behind?” Fiona’s heart ached at the thought. She couldn’t leave her bestest bestie behind like that! “Absolutely not! Irmee gets to choose for herself if she wants to come. Tai Tai doesn’t get to make those types of decisions for us.” Fiona watched Juni deliberate whether or not to argue. 

“Alright, but please make this quick,” Juni conceded. “I don’t think we have a large window to meet Taion.”

Determined, Fiona moved to Irmee’s bunk, where her poor friend appeared to be having a nightmare.

“Don’t hurt me!” She muttered in her sleep.

“Irmee, it’s me,” Fiona said, “It’s okay. No one is going to hurt you! You’re having a nightmare!”

Irmee’s eyes fluttered open, clearly confused. “Fifi, what’s…?”

“You were having a nightmare.” Irma wrapped Fiona in an unexpected hug.

“Everywhere I went, people wanted to hurt me. I was so scared.”

“It’s okay, Irmee.”

“Fiona, we’re running out of time,” Juni interjected.

“Time for what?” Irma asked, confused.

“There’s a letter under your pillow that explains most of it.”

---

“He was really going to leave me behind?” Irmee asked Juni. 

They nodded. “He thinks he’s responsible for all of us. He blames himself for what happened to us all back then. I think the idea of hurting us again terrifies him.”

“Well, I’m coming with you,” Irmee declared while gathering a change of clothes. “The Free Four don’t separate!” Fiona’s chest swelled with pride at Irmee’s impromptu nicknaming of their quartet of friends.

“Oooo, I love the name, Irmee!”

“Now that that’s settled, we need to move!” Juni said. “Do what I do and don’t look down!” Juni opened a window, and gracefully leapt onto the nearby wire and began sliding down while keeping their balance.

Irmee looked horrified at the prospect. “It’s ok, Irmee. I’ll go with you so I can help. We’ll do this together!”

“Okay,” she replied shakily. 

“On three! One. Two. Three!” The pair jumped onto the wire and felt the wind rushing through their hair as they rapidly picked up speed. Before they knew it, they saw the end of the wire rapidly approaching. “Irmee, we need to jump!”

The pair leapt off the wire, and tumbled on the admittedly painful pier before coming to a halt. A flock of Mondo surrounded them and bathed them in healing energy. Irmee jumped a little at their presence, but composed herself quickly. 

“Well done, Juniper. Now, let’s board….” Tai Tai trailed off as he laid eyes on Irmee. “What-“

“I’m coming with you,” Irmee said shakily.

“We don’t separate or leave people behind, Tai Tai,” Fiona added.

“I’ll just need to adjust my plans a little. For now, get on that boat. We’re going to Leftheria.”

“Oooo, I love the sea!” Fiona declared giddily. The quartet of friends boarded the ship, and began their daring escape. 

 

Nia

“Sleep well, Mio,” Nia said, “You’ve done so much today, and I’m so proud of you.”

“Thanks for tucking me in like you used to Mam.”

“Don’t mention it. Goodnight,” she said while closing the door. 

“Goodnight, Mam,” Mio said from beneath the covers. Nia could hear her wives tucking their respective daughters into bed (Rex always did the first round of good nights). She waited for Pyra and Mythra, then three of them walked silently to their bedroom. Once the door was closed, Nia flopped face-first onto the bed with a massive sigh. She rolled onto her back and groaned. “Why is parenting so bloody difficult?”

“I’ve got a few ideas,” Rex replied as he sat behind her on the bed and started massaging her shoulders, “but you might as well ask Glimmer. She’s done it longer than any of us.”

“Please, don’t remind me,” Pyra said. “I’m still reeling from the fact that our little girls are all grown up now.” She started to tear up. “I’m sorry. I just thought I had more time to prepare for this day.”

“Don’t apologize, sis,” Mythra said as she pulled Pyra into a hug. “This is a wild situation. None of us were ready for this.”

“We’ve got each other to rely on, Pyra,” Nia reassured her. “Well tackle this like we always do: as a team.” She gave Pyra a little kiss on the cheek and grabbed her hand. 

“Thank you, all of you,” she said, drying her tears. She took a few deep breaths to calm herself, squeezing Nia’s hand. Nia tried not to focus on how electrifying her touch was. 

“How are we going to move forward as a family?” Mythra asked. “Clearly we can’t treat seasoned war veterans like they’re ten years old.”

“Of course we can’t,” Rex agreed, “but mentally older or not, their bodies ain’t the ones they’re used to. They’ll need help readjusting to ‘em.”

“There’ll be the issue of their friends as well,” Nia added. “Mio’s got Sena, but Alexandria and Glimmer will be hard pressed to relate to their peers until they get their memories back.”

“We’ll need to pick up the slack for their support network, then,” Pyra said. 

“Glimmer’s furious with me, I think,” Rex admitted. “I never told her who I was in Aionios, and I think she resents me for that. I was doin’ what I thought was right at the time, but I think I really hurt her.”

“What we need is a system in place, so everybody knows the rules,” Nia said. “The kids are all mature enough at this point that I say we bring them in on the discussion once we’ve come up with a basic framework.”

“Agreed,” Pyra said. 

“Let’s start with the basics,” Mythra suggested. “I think any rules we had in place for their physical well-being have to stay. Bedtimes, meals, bathing, etc. Those all stay as they are.”

“I concur,” Rex said, “‘cause like it or not, their bodies are ten again.”

“They’ll all need therapy, obviously,” Nia added, “Glim was right on with her observations. Regardless of the good memories of Aionios they might have, the majority of those memories will be traumatic.”

“I’ll see if my therapist has a list of people she’d recommend,” Mythra said. “I’m honestly most worried about Mio. Alex seems to be handling it okay, and Glimmer got to grow up enough where I trust her to come to us if she needs help. But Mio’s situation in Aionios was unique to say the least.”

“I’ll be sure to make her something special tomorrow,” Pyra volunteered.

“I’ll keep an eye on ‘er,” Nia said. “She hasn’t been able to hide anything from me yet.”

“Ugh,” Rex groaned, “we still need to figure out why a Fog Rift opened, work out how we’re going to tell the other nations about Aionios, set up a system for Mio to help people-“

Nia created a small spritz of water and sprayed Rex in the face, “No! Bad husband! We’re not talking shop right now, we’re focusing on our family.”

“Right, right, sorry. Got a bit carried away,”

“We’ll have a frank discussion with the kids tomorrow at breakfast,” Nia said, which was greeted by nods. “Now, let’s move on with our evening,” she said with a cocky grin. 

 

Shulk

The morning light spilled into the Imperial Guest chambers, silhouetting Fiora’s form in sunbeams. It was an extremely pleasant sight to wake up to. I may just be the luckiest Homs alive. Taking great care not to wake his wife, Shulk snuck out of the bed to begin getting ready for the day. As much as he would have loved to spend more time in bed with his darling Fiora, Origin demanded his attention. It was still running and that was cause enough for Shulk to be concerned.

As he stepped from the shower and began to dry his hair, he thought of how long his hair had gotten in Aionios. I wonder if Fiora would like that look, or if it would remind her too much of Dunban. I’ll have to ask her over breakfast. 

As he reentered the bedroom, Fiora was just sitting up to yawn and stretch. “Good morning, Fiora.”

“Good morning, Shulk. I enjoyed our celebration last night. That’s the best sleep I’ve had in months.”

Shulk laughed as he began to get dressed. “I’m glad you enjoyed it too.” Fiora came up and hugged him from behind, still sleepy. Shulk turned around to reciprocate the hug and gave her a quick kiss. The couple heard flute music coming from a few rooms away, signaling Crys was ready to start his day. 

“You certainly got ready quickly today,” Fiora observed, “Normally I’m dragging you out of bed. Are you going to look at Origin today?”

“I have to. Alvis is in trouble, and it should have shut down when the Intersection passed.”

“I’ll keep an eye on Nikol and Crys,” Fiora said while she disrobed for her own shower, “just do what you need to do to help Alvis. They’re important to all of us. I’ll be sure to pack you something easy to eat while you work today.”

“Thank you, Fiora. Enjoy your shower.”

“You’re welcome! And I will!” She gave him a quick peck on the cheek, then turned to enter the bathroom. “See you soon!”

Once he could no longer enjoy the view of his naked wife walking away, Shulk made his way into the kitchen. He set out Fiora’s energy drink of choice, Mechanical Rhythm, and began to brew his morning tea. As he waited for the water to boil, he watched as Crys and Nikol entered the room. “Good morning.”

“Good morning, Dad,” the boys responded in unison. 

“Did you both sleep okay?”

Crys nodded, but Nikol shook his head, and spoke, “I had a nightmare, so I don’t feel particularly rested.”

“Do you want to talk about it?” Shulk asked his youngest son. “It could help you make sense of it.”

“Sure. It’s a good way to wait for Mom to come down and make breakfast.” All three of them knew better than to try and cook in Fiora’s kitchen without her direct supervision. That was the kind of mistake you only made once. 

“So, what happened in this nightmare of yours?”

Nikol took a deep breath, then began, “The dream actually started off pretty normal. I was working on a backpack of some kind. It looked like it had some pretty neat tech to it. It would have been way too heavy to carry without a power frame, and the motor purred like an Equites’.”

Oh no. I know that backpack. Is Nikol having memories of Aionios sneak into his dreams?

“I actually drew up a blueprint this morning. I’d love if you could look it over, Dad.”

“I’ll take a look when I get home tonight,” Shulk promised. “I’m spending the day working on Origin. I think an old family friend might need my help. Continue your story, Nikol.”

“Right, sorry. I got distracted. There was a huge explosion in the distance and I rushed there with a group of people. I think Panacea was there?” Nikol blushed, “There was also this really cute woman in her early twenties I think. She had red hair and just being close to her made you warm, like she was a Homs campfire.”

Of course you didn’t notice you were older too. Like father, like son, in the observation department, I suppose. 

“Anyway, the group of us, we arrived at a lake with these huge stone spires that spread out at the top. This woman with cat ears and a silver jumpsuit with red accents appeared out of nowhere. There was a big fight and I remember being scared. The dream ended after that.”

Hmmm. How do I approach this? Shulk thought. I can’t explain Aionios to Nikol without Crys here too. Crys would be devastated to know he became Moebius, but they both have a right to the truth. 

“Good morning!” Fiora called out. 

“Good morning, Mom,” Crys said. 

“Good morning,” Nikol said. 

Fiora gave the boys each a hug and Shulk a kiss on the forehead before she grabbed the energy drink and entered her domain. It didn’t matter that this was a guest house; any kitchen Fiora was in became hers for the duration of her stay. Shulk could hear her humming to herself as she cooked breakfast.

“That dream was really vivid,” Nikol said, bringing Shulk’s mind back to the dilemma at hand. “I can’t stop thinking about it.”

“Are you sure it’s not just that woman you’re thinking about?” Crys teased. Nikol blushed a deep red and shifted uncomfortably in his chair. 

Ah. Sibling teasing. This he could deal with. “Crys, be nice to your brother,” Shulk intervened. 

“Sorry Dad.”

“I’m not the one that needs an apology.”

“Sorry Nikol. I shouldn’t make fun of you when you open up to us. I wasn’t thinking.”

“Thanks,” Nikol said as the smell of bacon wafted across the room. “Really, though. It’s bothering me just how real it felt.”

There was no avoiding it at this point. Shulk was going to have to grab the Gogol by the horns. “That’s because that wasn’t a dream, Nikol. It was a memory.” The only sound in the room was the fat on the bacon sizzling. 

“Wait, that happened?” Nikol asked incredulously. 

“How utterly fascinating!” Crys exclaimed. “Whatever do you mean, Dad?”

“That’s complicated to explain,” Shulk shook his head.

“Shulk, what’s going on?” Fiora asked.

Shulk looked Fiora dead in the eyes and replied, “Nikol dreamt about Aionios.”

“That shouldn’t be possible!” Fiora exclaimed. “How?”

“I’m not sure, but I have a theory.”

Shulk saw something click in Nikol’s mind. “Wait, so I built that backpack. How on Bionis would I have had an Equites motor? I thought those were only available to the Defence Force.”

“You’re too clever for your own good sometimes, Nikol,” Shulk sighed. 

“Please, Mom, Dad. Tell us what’s going on.” Crys said. 

“There’s a lot to talk about, but I think first I should present you both with a choice,” Shulk said. “I can try to explain this to you now, or you could have your memories of this other world restored.”

“Shulk, they’re too young for memories like that!”

“Fiora, please,” Shulk argued, “These are their memories. What they do with them is their choice.”

“Fine, but I’m not happy about it. They don’t deserve to have memories like that thrust on them so young.”

“That’s why I’m leaving it up to them. Crys, Nikol. Listen carefully. The memories of that world are not pleasant ones. They will be filled with anguish, pain, trauma, and choices you may not be proud of. But, you met people that changed you as individuals and helped you grow. Experiences are always valuable, even if they aren’t positive. I’ll respect whatever you decide, but it’s up to you to determine if this is worth it.” Shulk paused for a breath. “And no matter what you choose or what you may end up remembering, your Mother and I love you with all of our hearts. We will be here for you, no matter what.”

The family ate in silence for a few minutes before Crys finally spoke. “I want to know.”

“Crys,” Fiora said, “are you absolutely certain?”

“I am,” he nodded. “I need to know who I became.”

“I need to know, too,” Nikol declared. “I may not know who the people in my dream were, but I know they were important to me. It feels wrong to walk away from that.”

“I’ll call Emmy Leater,” Shulk stood up. “I’m proud of both of you for facing this head on.”

“We both are.”

Shulk retreated to the bedroom and pulled up the Iris Network. He quickly found Emmy’s icon and started a call. 

“This is Commander Leater. Oh! Shulk! What do you need from me?”

“Am I that transparent?” Shulk laughed. “I do need a favor. Are you comfortable with Noah doing a memory restoration? It’s for my sons. Nikol had a dream about Aionios.”

Before Emmy could reply, a high pitched scream sounded in the background. “Shit, Eunie’s having the nightmare again! Shulk, be at Aff-INN-ity in an hour!” The call ended, leaving Shulk unsure of what to do next. 

 

Eunie

Eunie woke up surrounded by her friends and Noah’s mother, screaming her lungs out. Again. “Snuffin’ spark, again?! I had that damn nightmare again?! If I ever see that mudder again, I’m shooting him on sight!” Eunie had been dreaming about D killing her all sparking night. Nothing they’d tried had worked, from soothing music, to milk, to weighted blankets. Spark, her hands still wouldn’t stop shaking. Where was Taion when you needed him? Oh right. In another sparking world.

As Noah, Lanz, and Joran held her close so the adrenaline could subside, Noah’s mom got up to answer the knock at their hotel door. 

“Excuse me, ma’am,” the Machina innkeeper said, “but we’ve received some additional noise complaints regarding your room. I’m afraid last time was your final warning, so I’m going to have to ask you to vacate the premises.”

“I understand your frustration,” Noah’s mom said, “but as I explained the last three times, this isn’t in anyone’s control. She’s screaming in her sleep, and nothing we do seems to help.”

“Be that as it may, it is unfair to our other guests. I’m afraid I must insist you vacate or I will be forced to call the guard.”

“Fine. Noah, Lanz, Joran, Eunie. Get changed and packed. We’re leaving.”

Eunie wanted to die of embarrassment. None of the others were suffering nightmares like this. Yet because she couldn’t stop herself from screaming, they had been kicked out of their hotel.

“Hey, stop that right now,” Joran said, breaking her out of her thoughts. “If I don’t get to beat myself up, you don’t either.”

“Thanks, Joran. I get too caught up in my own head sometimes.”

The group quickly changed and packed, then left the inn together. Noah’s mom was making an Iris call while the friends sat on a nearby bench. Eunie was having trouble staying awake. Lanz and Noah were talking about something but she just couldn’t seem to focus on them. She felt herself losing the battle with the weight on her eyelids.

A massive shockwave knocked her off the bench and onto her ass. Well I’m sure as spark awake now! She scrambled to her feet and summoned her Blade. “Gimme an update! The spark’s goin’ on?”

“Not a snuffin’ clue!” Lanz shouted as he got to his feet also, his Adamant Shell appearing in his hands. It’s appearance knocked him off balance. 

“But I think we’re about to find out!” Noah added as a rift began to open in front of them. Siren 2, the one used across Keves to signal attacks, began to blare. 

“You four, stand back and look for an opportunity to run!” Noah’s mom shouted as she summoned her own Blade. 

“Seriously?” Eunie replied. “We’re sparkin’ Ouroboros, we’ll be fine!”

“I’m not worried about your skills, I’m worried about your stamina! Those bodies aren’t the bodies of hardened soldiers. They’ll give out before long in a fight. This isn’t a discussion, that’s an order!”

“I’m pretty sure we outrank you, but point taken. Lucky for you, we’ve got a solution.”

“I’ll head back to the inn and help with any injuries!” Joran shouted, summoning his own Blade. “Stay safe!”

“Don’t worry about it, man. We’ll be fine!” With a nod, Joran off towards the inn. 

As the rift seethed black fog, Noah drew Lucky Seven. 

Come on, four eyes, I need you. Don’t let me down!

Eunie felt herself dissolve into light as she watched Lanz and Noah do the same. 

 

Eunie/Taion

Look sharp, Taion! We’ve got hostiles at twelve-o’-clock, civilians on our three, six, and nine!

What? Eunie? How? Are we Interlinked? I didn’t think that would be possible. On our left, incoming!

Eunie’s Ouroboros flew to the right as the fog in front of them coalesced into some horrible winged creature, barely dodging the creature’s wicked claws. 

What the snuff was that thing?

I have no idea, but eyes up! It has friends! The fog formed into a Lexos and an Orluga, which spread out trying to surround Noah’s Ouroboros. Eunie, let’s even the odds a little!

Buff us up then knock them down? You got it! Eunie’s Ouroboros flew into the air and aimed their ether cannon down, spreading buffs to their allies. “Oi, you lot! We’ve got your back, so lay into ‘em!” The obnoxious beeping of the Interlink timer made its unwelcome return.

How do I remember you? Taion asked. I didn’t have any memory of Aionios in Alrest. 

They dodged some sort of breath attack from the Lexos as Eunie replied, Long story short, Noah and Mio’s Off-Seeing tunes restore memories. You’re the only one of the Ouroboros squad left that hasn’t gotten the treatment. 

“You want a piece?!” Noah’s Mom cried out. “Then come get some!” The Orluga took a massive swing at her, but she planted her feet and absorbed the blow with her shield. The Blade began to glow with light-blue light, and Noah’s Mom smiled. “My turn!” She called out as she cleaved the creature in twain with the beam of light that extended from her sword.

She fights like Zeon. Taion observed.

“Let them have it!” Noah cried out. “Glorious Wing!” Noah’s Ouroboros immediately followed up with a sweeping horizontal slash that unbalanced all of their foes at once. 

Lanz’s Ouroboros generated a field of energy and kicked it forwards, sending their enemies tumbling down before dropping into a push-up position and firing the twin cannons on their back from below, sending their enemies skyward. 

Noah’s Ouroboros leaped into the air and delivered a devastating overhead slash from above, sending both remaining creatures crashing into the ground at incredible speed. The creatures dissipated into nothing. Civilians watching the fight from the inn cheered.

“Mio, Sena! Listen to me!” Taion called out. “I’m currently aboard a ship bound for Yesheva Harbor in Leftheria! Juniper, Fiona, and Irma are with me.”

“Yesheva Harbor in Leftheria. Got it!” Mio’s voice called out. “I’ll have Mam send an escort ship to meet you!”

“Wait a sec, did you say Irma?” Lanz asked.

“Yeah, wasn’t that the name of Consul I?” Sena asked.

 “Their relationship to each other pre-Aionios complicates matters. Just trust me on this one, she’s a friend!”

“Heads up guys!” Noah called out, “There’s more of them!” Sure enough, the rift seethed black fog once again, with the fog resembling a pack of volffs. Noah’s mom leapt into the air and came down with a vertical strike, capturing the volffs’ attention for the time being. The Imperial Guard had arrived, and was helping to direct citizens to safety by forming a defensive line between them and the monsters.

We need to get these people indoors, Taion thought, we can’t fight to our fullest if we’re worried about civilian casualties. What’s Noah’s mother’s name?

Commander Leater. 

“Lanz, Sena! Reinforce the guard’s defensive line!” Taion shouted. “Commander Leater, position yourself between the volffs and the inn on my nine-o-clock! We’ll draw them in and catch them in a pincer attack! Noah, Mio, be ready to give us a boost!”

I missed watching you work, four-eyes. 

Careful Eunie. That almost sounded like a compliment. 

Lanz’s Ouroboros arrived in position first, digging in their heels and projecting a massive ether field as a shield. “Nothin’s gettin’ past me!”

Commander Leater’s cry of “Deflector Field!” resounded not long after. Eunie and Taion were standing in the only gap with Noah and Mio. The trap was set. As the fog volffs charged their position, Eunie sprung the trap. Twirling with the poise of a professional dancer, their Ouroboros spun forward. Their feathers caught the volffs mid-jump and sapped their strength. As their spin ended, they aimed their pair of mini-cannons and fired off twin blasts of ether that knocked their foes backwards. “Now Noah!”

Two shimmering wings appeared behind Noah’s Ouroboros, which sent out a wave of bolstering ether as they rotated in place. As the wave hit them, Commander Leater and Lanz’s Ouroboros moved in unison. 

Commander Leater’s connected first, her sword enveloped in the energy absorbed by her shield from the earlier onslaught as she dove into the fray. Her wide-arcing slash, slaying most of the Dark Volffs. This left just the leader of the pack.  

Lanz and Sena rushed forward with a furious combo that ended with launching the leader skyward once more, with Noah’s Ouroboros delivering the finisher from above. 

“Was that the last of them?” Mio asked as the dust began to clear.

Commander Leater spoke up, “We need to close the rift, or the Fogbeasts will just keep coming through.”

You think a Sacred Cannon would do it?

I don’t see why we shouldn’t give it a try. 

With the rift now unguarded, Eunie’s Ouroboros took aim with their main cannon, targeting the rift itself. As the targeting visor came down, their cannon funneling the ether from Noah’s boost, they took the shot. The recoil was tremendous. Their shot hit true, but not before the rift erupted a torrent of black fog that quickly began to form into a truly colossal monster.

What in the Empress’ name is that snuffin’ thing? A picture from a textbook flashed through her mind. Is that a behemoth? I thought those were extinct!

Eunie targeted it with her Iris and got a nasty surprise as the words ‘Fogstorm Belgazas’ appeared on the targeting interface. Well spark us, it has a name . Next to its name was the tag assessing its threat level. It read ‘Lv 114’.

“Be careful, loves!” Eunie called out, “It’s a Unique Monster! And a snuffin’ strong one at that!”

“Well that’s just our sparkin’ luck.” Lanz complained. 

Belgazas inhaled sharply, then let loose a plume of noxious fumes all over the guard, roaring in satisfaction as the poison worked its way through their systems. 

“We’ve got you!” Eunie reassured the guard as healing light from her wings washed over them. “Soon as you can stand, run! This mudder’s no joke!” They flew into the air and released another wave of strengthening ether. 

“We can’t afford to drag this out,” Sena noted. “We’re already heating up.”

“Then I’ll carve us a path forward!” Noah answered as they pulled the Sword of the End from their Ouroboros core. Shockwaves rippled outward as the blade emerged, before they swung the sword down in a clean vertical slice, disrupting the Fogbeast’s very essence in the process. 

Shafts of light rained from the cannons on Lanz’s Ouroboros’ back, drawing the beast’s attention. “Suck on this!” Lanz cried out as they unleashed a frontal assault from the glowing disc they’d created. Belgazas reeled under the assault, having no time to recover before they finished their assault with a titanic punch, shattering its exterior layer of armored fog and sending the Unique Monster flying backwards. 

The behemoth roared and charged Lanz’s Ouroboros, tearing into them with a vicious combo of goring attacks. Even in its weakened state, the blows were powerful enough to push them backwards. “We’re nearly cooked here! I’ll leave you with a parting gift!” With a brutal seven hit flurry of blows, Belgazas was launched skyward once more. As the final hit landed, there was a burst of light as the Interlink was canceled, leaving only the ten year old Machina and a wave of heat behind. 

Noah’s cry of “Rolling Smash!” likely reached the palace as they drove the creature into the ground. The beast shook its head, shaky on its feet as it stood, then let loose a roar like thunder as it locked onto Noah’s Ouroboros with murder in its eyes. “I think we made them mad!” 

As Noah and Mio attempted to unleash the Sword of the End once more, Eunie saw something that made her stomach (wait, do our Ouroboros have stomachs?) turn. Spark. Taion, I think the mudder’s regenerating. 

You’re right. This isn’t a fight we can win. We need to retreat. 

Noah and Mio’s blow connected just as their Interlink ended, leaving just a pair of ten-year-old boys and Noah’s mother versus the regenerating menace.

If we don’t beat this thing, who will?

Eunie, you have to retreat. I can’t sit here and watch you all die. 

Fine, but I’m covering the retreat. 

“Noah, Lanz! This thing’s healing like Grandeps! We’ve gotta leg it! I’ll give you cover fire!”

“Snuff, she’s right!” Lanz swore.

“All units, retreat!” Noah’s Mom gave the order. “Lead it between the elevated walkways. Ranged attackers, take up positions on the upper level. Healers and Defenders, take formation six! Prioritize the safety of civilians and begin the evacuation of Alcamoth!”

Fogstorm Belgazas charged their defensive line, largely ignoring Eunie’s distracting fire from above. At first, it looked like they might hold out. Then, the monster exhaled a cloud of black fog that erupted into a million mini annihilation events. Noah, Lanz, Noah’s mom, Joran, the civilians, and the guard all fell to the ground, unconscious. No other choice. Looks like our time together’s up for the moment. Stay safe, Taion. 

You too, Eunie. 

“Not today! You’re all getting out of here, safe and sound!” Eunie called out as her wings exploded into healing light, revitalizing those who had fallen in an instant. Her Ouroboros instantly overheated, and Eunie felt the comforting presence of her Interlink partner fade once again. 

 

Eunie

Eunie was face-to-face with the Fogbeast, and as much as she hated it, she had little choice but to run. As she turned to do so, however, she knew she was snuffed. Belgazas was already readying another attack, and she had nowhere to escape to. This snuffing sucks. Fight through all of Aionios just to bite it to some random monster. She raised her Blade to parry, knowing her strength would never be enough, but dammit if she was going down without a fight! That’s when she heard him.

“It’s me you want! Monado Rage!” Shulk ran down a nearly vertical support column, Blade in hand, and redirected the beast’s attention away from Eunie. With effortless ease, he dodged the incoming attacks. He stopped in front of her, and offered her a hand to help her to her feet. “Sorry to keep you waiting. You did a great job. We’ll take it from here.”

“We?” That’s when red arrows of light began pelting the creature in rapid succession, forcing it to the ground as the man she recognized as Reyn slammed his weapon into the creature’s skull, Dazing it. A shot from an ether rifle rang out as a new wound appeared right between the creature’s eyes.

“Yeah, I think you lot’ve got this,” Eunie admitted as she ran to join the others.

 

Shulk

As the Kevesi Ouroboros fell back, Shulk returned his attention back to the Fogbeast. No better opportunity for a field test, I suppose. He touched the center of his chest where the mini Conduit emulator was hidden beneath his armor. As it stirred to life, for the first time in decades, Shulk experienced a Vision. 

Belgazas raised its leg, and brought it down with a tremendous crash three times in quick succession. The force of the impact knocks them all backwards, and severely wounds them. Sharla does not get back up.

Returning to the present, Shulk knew he didn’t have much time. “Monado, protect us from harm!” The waves of orange ether surrounded his companions and himself. “Everyone, brace yourselves!”

Just as he’d foreseen, the attack played out. This time, however, the dampening effect of Monado Armour kept everyone on their feet. The soothing ether from Sharla healed them all, good as new. 

“Excellent timing, Shulk!” Dunban praised as he danced out of the way of the beast’s toxic breath.

“It’s no good!” Fiora called out as she dodged its tusks. “Its wounds are healing as fast as I’m making them!”

We won’t get anywhere like this. We need to stop its healing. But how? Think, Shulk! You’ve dealt with regenerative abilities before. You can stop a Telethia by overloading it with the ether it would normally use to heal. We only had to do that because we couldn’t cut it off from ether entirely. Logically, if we stem the source of the regeneration, it will stop. So how is it healing? 

“Fiora, Dunban! Make as deep a cut as you can!”

“Shulk think solution is hit harder?” Kino asked, confused. “Kino thought friends already hitting as hard as could?”

“I have a plan, but I need to test something!”

“You ready, Dunban?”

“To aid you, Fiora? Always.”

“Then let’s give this thing an Ortiz greeting!”

“On my count, we strike as one!”

Shulk’s wife and brother-in-law were a sight to behold, working in concert. The two wove around each other in a whirlwind of blades, disorienting the monster and leaving it vulnerable. Then, as one, the pair carved a massive gash in its side. 

This is it. Show me how you’re healing yourself!

The fog-based form of the superior foe they had faced down on Valak Mountain all those years ago recovered its senses, and howled in anger. Its wounds immediately began to heal themselves. 

That’s it! It’s healing from its rage! If we can stun it for long enough, we should be able to kill it!

 “Still not enough? A tough opponent indeed,” Dunban mused. 

“Everyone, we need to quell its rage,” Shulk told his companions. “That’s how it’s healing!”

“And how do you reckon,” Reyn asked as he blocked a heavy blow, “we pull that off?”

“That easy one!” Nene said. “First, make wibbly-wobbly! Then make fall on bum! Finally, bishy-bash on head till monster see stars!”

As Nene finished speaking, Shulk was once again transported to the future. 

“It’s not working. Damn thing’s still healing!” Reyn cried out. 

“That’s cuz,” Eunie, the High Entia Ouroboros, said as she moved into view, dressed in a strange white combat dress holding dual fans, “you’re missin’ the finisher, loves! Way Home!”

“It’s like she says,” Shulk said. “Everyone, focus on keeping it Dazed for as long as you can!” Shots rang out and weapons clashed against fog but try as they might, they couldn’t seem to unsteady the monster. It was simply too large to be so easily Broken. The air around them began to grow tense with pressure, black fog beginning to coalesce. 

“Finally, charged up again! Time to turn this around! Finaaal Crooooooooooooss!” The technique they treated as Meyneth’s parting gift ravaged the creature, blasting its legs out from under it.

“Kino’s time to shine! Egg Shaker!” Joining Kino’s voice were the sounds of the various Daze Arts their group had at their disposal. Even so, the creature’s wounds began to heal once more.

“It’s not working. Damn thing’s still healing!” Reyn cried out. Shulk’s face spread into a knowing smile.

“That’s cuz you’re missin’ the finisher, loves! Way Home!” Eunie’s Art sent a disc of yellow-green ether energy flying forward from the fan blades, crashing into the creature and utterly disorienting it. “Now’s your chance! Lay into it and be quick! That Burst won’t last forever!”

“Let’s finish it with a Chain Attack!” With precision that could only be born of affinity and discipline, the group of them tore into their foe in rapid succession. With a final mighty blow, Shulk tore into Fogstorm Belgazas with the full might of his Blade, and the monster dissipated to nothing as the Conduit emulator on his chest turned off. 

The other members of Ouroboros arrived on the scene as Shulk went to call the guard and inform them that the danger had passed.

 

Noah

“Eunie, what the spark were you thinking?” Lanz berated their friend. “Goin’ off on your own like that was-“

“It was necessary, is what it was,” she cut him off, her clothes swapping back to her Medic Gunner attire in the process. “Without someone with Burst, they'd have been snuffed.”

“No one’s arguing against that, Eunie,” Noah tried to break up the argument, “what we meant is going by yourself was risky.”

“You were both too disoriented from its last attack for me to explain myself. I had to move quickly to stop any more casualties.”

“Um, excuse me,” came an unfamiliar voice from behind him. Noah turned around to see a small boy, a couple years older than him from the look of things, with short, messy blond hair. He was strikingly familiar. “I just wanted to say thank you. For helping my parents and their friends, I mean.”

“Not a problem. What’s your name?” Eunie asked, “Don’t think we’ve met. Mine’s Eunie, that’s Lanz, Noah, and Joran.”

“Oh! My name’s Nikol Ortiz.”

That’s where I know him from! I saw his tenth term self as a statue in the City. He won’t know anything about that though, so I’d better keep my mouth shut. 

Right as Noah thought this, Lanz started to speak, “Hey, doesn’t he look kinda like the Fou-ow!” He stopped as Eunie elbowed him in the stomach. “The spark was that for?”

Nikol looked a bit concerned, so Noah decided to stretch the truth for the moment. “Sorry about them. Lanz just thought you looked like someone we’ve seen before…” Noah trailed off as a face he’d thought would be much harder to find walked into his view. “Crys!” He called out without thinking, running towards his former mentor. “It’s me, Noah!”

Crys seemed shocked and a bit concerned to see him approach. “I’m sorry, but I don’t know you. How do you know my name?”

Right. Of course. As far as he knows, we’ve never met.

“My name is Noah. I know someone like you. It’s…hard to explain.”

Fiora approached the group as Shulk walked with purpose towards the palace. “Oh, Crys, Nikol. This is the person who can help you recover your memories.”

“That‘s unexpected,” Crys said, “I assumed they would be somebody older.”

“Uh, are we sure that’s a good idea?” Eunie asked.

“They’ve both been warned about the negativity of what they’ll remember,” Fiora grimaced. “I know why you’re hesitant. I was there too.”

That’s right. Lucky Seven did feel reluctant in our fight with Crys. Makes perfect sense if his mom was in there. I can’t even imagine.

“We’ll need someplace quiet and isolated,” Noah said as Joran and his mom rejoined the group. When Joran saw Crys, his eyes went wide.

“Noah, are you sure you feel comfortable doing this?”

Noah nodded. “As far as we know, I’m the only person on Bionis that can help. It’s not really much of a choice. Maybe once Crys gets his memories back, he’ll be able to help too.”

“Well, as for a quiet, isolated place,” Fiora said, “Melia is letting us stay in a private villa in Whitewing Palace.”

“Sounds perfect, lead the way,” Noah replied. They traveled swiftly, passing by emergency crews running across the city. By the time they reached the villa, Noah, Eunie, and Joran were winded, still tired from their earlier battle. “I really,” Noah wheezed, “need to get back into shape.”

“No kidding,” Eunie agreed. “Empress’ elbows, my legs hurt.” Joran didn’t even bother saying anything; he just went straight for the sofa and took a seat. 

Noah faced the Ortiz family and said, “Give me a few minutes to catch my breath. Then we can start.”

Once his breathing had returned to normal, Noah stood up and faced the Ortiz siblings. “Final chance for you both to change your minds. Once I start playing, I won’t be able to stop.”

“I’m ready,” Nikol assured him. 

“As am I,” Crys agreed. 

Nodding, Noah took his flute from his belt and began to play Mio’s Off-Seeing Melody. The reactions of the brothers started off similarly, with confusion being the primary emotion on their faces. As the song continued, however, their reactions diverged dramatically. Nikol’s face shifted from confusion to fear to pride. Crys, on the other hand, had his face go from satisfied to a mask of abject horror. As before, the melody held Noah captive until its conclusion, but at last, the piece reached its end and he could speak once more. 

“Glimmer, I hope you’re okay,” Nikol muttered. 

“What did I do?” Crys whispered in shock. Before anyone could respond, a young girl’s scream came from the balcony. Eunie rushed to the doors, throwing them open as quickly as she could before she looked down to see the screamer.

“Oh you’ve gotta be sparkin’ kidding me. No snuffin’ way,” she swore. “The spoon listened in and she’s remembering the pain too!”

“Who, Eunie?” Noah asked as Fiora rushed to comfort her children. 

“My very own suicidal manic. I’ve found Ashera.”

 

Ashera

The pain in her neck was agonizing. Each breath sent a new wave of white-hot fire radiating out from it. There were voices, but she couldn’t make them out. All she could do was scream; scream and hope someone would take pity on her and put her out of her misery. As an act of defiance, she tried to open her eyes. Over her face, yelling something she couldn’t process, was a girl with brown hair, blue eyes, and gorgeous headwings. She looked a little bit like how Ashera imagined Eunie would have as a first-termer, actually. She had the same kindness in her eyes too. 

In a tremendous exercise of her willpower, for a moment, she managed to stop screaming. “Please, beautiful stranger, kill me. And tell Eunie it’s not her fault.” She called her Blade and attempted to hand it to the girl as the screams started again. Her eyes closed again. I think that girl is yelling at me. Shame I can’t focus. I wonder what she sounds like. There was a dull thud nearby. Her eyelids had a green tinge to them now, and, miraculously, the pain in her neck lessened ever so slightly. The sounds of the world started to take on meaning once again. 

“-absolute muppet! Ashera, can you even hear me?”

The girl knows my name. She even sounds like Eunie. She opened her eyes to see Eunie’s Blade planted in the ground, its signature Healing Ring active. “Just hang in there, and let the ring do its job” the girl soothed her whilst still looking absolutely furious with her. The sounds of crying and yelling could be heard from somewhere inside. The girl hadn’t been kidding; Ashera felt the pain in her neck begin to dull. It was only then that her mind started playing catch-up to recent events. 

“Oh shit, Eunie! That is you! I guess we won then.” She looked in the glass door and was greeted by a reflection of her second-term self. “Huh, haven’t seen that face in a minute.”

“Yes, it’s me. You’re gonna be the death of me.” The Medic Gunner dismissed her Blade and pulled her into an embrace. “I missed you, Ashe. I was worried it was gonna take so long to find you. Or you’d manage to do something stupid and get yourself killed before I could.”

Ashera returned the embrace and tried to soothe Eunie, “C’mon now. You know it takes more than most can offer to kill me. Besides, I’m tough as nails on Bionis too. You’ve met my dad; he’s trained me personally.”

Eunie sat back, confused. “Wait, I have? Who’s your dad?”

“Let’s see if you can figure it out,” Ashera teased. She cleared her throat and tried to do her best impression of the Hero of the Homs. “Born in a world of strife! Against the odds! We choose to fight! Blossom Dance!” She watched the realization dawn on Eunie’s face. 

“Dunban?! THE Dunban?!” Eunie exclaimed. 

“Got it in one,” Ashera laughed. “How’s poindexter doing?”

Eunie’s face fell. “He’s the only member of the core team that doesn’t remember Aionios yet. He’s a whole world away and I miss him like you wouldn’t believe. We never really worked out how he fit into my life outside of Ouroboros and being a friend,” she sighed. “He’s not like you, Ashe. The dork gave me this,” she pulled out a book labeled ‘Kevesi Herbal Tea Recipes’, “and he got so flustered I thought he might might not get the words out before the worlds separated again.”

“We’ll see them all again, Eunie,” Ashera said. “Besides, Teach still owes me a rematch.”

“You do get that the whole point of defeating Moebius was so people didn’t have to think about fighting all the time, right?”

Ashera laughed. “Oh I know, but that doesn’t mean I don’t still enjoy it.”

Eunie shook her head. “Honestly, I don’t know what I expected.” She stood up and offered Ashera her hand. “C’mon, up you get. We need to go check on Crys and Nikol, see how they’re handling things.” As Eunie helped her up, she added, “You let me know if that pain comes back, alright love? I’m hoping it was just a one-time thing, but I’m not counting on it.”

“Thanks, Eunie,” Ashera said. 

Ashera got a call on her Iris. “Hello, this is Ashera, the Undying Blade.”

“Undying Blade? That’s quite the title. But to me, you’re Ashera Ortiz, my daughter,” her dad said. “My daughter who was not supposed to leave the palace, yet is nowhere to be found after a major attack on Alcamoth. Care to explain yourself?”

“I just went to Aunt Fiora’s guest villa to check in on Nikol and Crys. Besides, there was a fight to be had! I wasn’t going to sit back and let you have all the fun, old man!”

“Don’t take that tone with me, young lady,” he scolded.

“What are you doing?” Eunie whispered in her ear. “You’re still a kid, you can’t talk to him like that!”

“I’m coming over,” her dad said. “Don’t leave until I arrive.”

“See you soon Dad!” Ashera replied with as much enthusiasm as she could muster. Her dad hung up. 

“My mum would kill me if I mouthed off to her like that,” Eunie shook her head. “Maybe in a few years I could get away with it, but definitely not right now!”

“What can I say, Eunie? I live for the thrill of it.”

The pair entered the living room.

 

Crys

A knock came at his door. “Crys? Are you in there?” His mother’s voice, muffled by the door, managed to penetrate the tempest of self-loathing in his mind. “Can I come in? I don’t want you to feel like you have to be alone right now,” she said. When he didn’t reply, she added, “Please, songbird. At least answer so I know you’re alive in there.”

Emotion overtook him once again as he realized he’d made his mother worry. “I’m so sorry,” he managed to choke out between sobs, “for everything.”

“Crys, I’m coming in.” The door to the bedroom opened slowly, then his mother came inside. She shut the door quietly, and locked it behind her. She took a seat on the edge of his bed. “Come here and let it all out,” she said while gesturing to the empty space next to her on the bed. "I’m not going anywhere, I promise.”

Crys rose from the floor in the corner of the room and made his way to his mother’s side, not bothering to wipe the tears from his face. He was immediately pulled into a hug. 

“We can talk, but only if you want to. If you need me to listen, I’ll listen. But if you just want me to be here, I can do that too. Remember, my little songbird, I love you. And I always will.”

Crys could only respond by leaning into the hug and letting his tears flow unabated onto his mom’s shoulder. He struggled to find the words to describe his feelings clearly. His heart was a maelstrom of emotions. 

There was the crushing weight of his guilt. He had committed atrocities. He did not feel guilty for the slaughter he’d committed as a soldier. None of that had been his choice, nor was he given any opportunity to take a different path. He could forgive himself for that. But his crimes as Moebius were a different story. Each life he had ordered to their deaths, each Colony he had reaped to sustain his monstrous self, and each moment his actions had preserved the Endless Now felt like Origin itself was dragging his soul into the abyss. In only five years, he’d done so much harm. 

Then there was the self-loathing he felt for failing to meet his own lofty expectations for himself. He had failed. The son of two of Bionis’ god-slaying heroes had succumbed to temptation. That realization threatened to overwhelm Crys’ very sense of self. Joran and Noah had been kind and offered him support, but neither of them had the weight of the Ortiz legacy to live up to. His entire family were legendary heroes that were critical in saving their world and unifying the empire after the fact. He had grown up idolizing them.

Even his odd little brother had managed to step up and take on the mantle of hero at his first opportunity. How could he live with himself after this? He had fallen and never redeemed himself. His father managed to fight off Zanza's bloodlust and stay his weapon against the man responsible for nearly driving the Homs to extinction. Yet when Z had offered Crys little more than hearing more music, he’d joined Moebius gladly.

Finally, there was the fear. What if he couldn’t ever atone? What if he was tempted again? What if he caved again, but no Ouroboros rose to meet the challenge? Could he trust himself to resist? Should he? What if he never became a hero like his father, mother, uncle, and now younger brother? Would that matter? Did it bother him, the idea of living a normal life? None of these questions had answers, and he felt so small just thinking about it.

He had to do something, anything, to help clear his head. Trying to talk to his mom would be a start. Better than nothing, certainly. “Mom?”

“Yes, Crys?”

“I want to try and talk about it. At least a little.”

“Ok. I’m here. Talk to me.”

He took a deep breath, then started trying to explain what was going on in his head. “I have so many emotions. I feel terrible about Aionios. I just feel like I let you and dad down. I couldn’t be a hero like you.”

“Oh sweetheart, that’s not true at all,” Mom comforted him. “While I won’t say I’m particularly proud of your decision to become Moebius, I want to make one thing very clear before we talk more about that: your father and I never expect you or your brother to be anything but yourselves.” She held him closer. “You never needed to be a hero for me, you just needed to be Crys.”

For the first time since his memories were restored, Crys managed a smile. “I know becoming Moebius was wrong. I won’t try to justify it. I was offered a coward’s way out of the fighting and I took it.”

Mom nodded. “I’m proud of you for taking responsibility for that. It would have been easier for you to justify it, but you’re confronting it. It’s going to take a lot of work to overcome your guilt, but your father and I will be with you every step of the way.”

“Thank you.”

“Of course! Crys, I’m your mother. It’s my job to stand by you, especially when things are tough!” She took a deep breath, then she gently pushed him back so she could look in his eyes. “Now, I’m not letting you off the hook, but I do have to say something. Z was a fucking creep that groomed you for millennia and I’m glad I got to hurt them as Lucky Seven.”

Crys was shocked to hear that language from Mom, but hearing that did make him feel just a little bit better. “Thanks Mom,” he said. “I’m just not sure how to channel these emotions right now. That’s not even getting into the relationships I had with people in Aionios.”

“Why not try writing some music about your time in Aionios?” Mom suggested. “You’ve always been good at expressing yourself through music. As for relationships, do you know what I saw today?” Crys shook his head. “When Noah saw you, he looked thrilled. He was so happy to see you again.”

“You really think so?”

“I know so. Remember, I traveled with that boy for seven years. He missed you, Crys.”

Crys realized he’d stopped crying. “Thank you, Mom,” he said, “you really helped me.”

“You’re my son, silly. I’ll always be there for you when you need me.”

Smiling to himself, Crys began to compose a song about Moebius in his head. He’d start with an operatic choir, then build from there.

Notes:

Fiona is absolutely adorable. The realities of parenting post-Aionios cannot be fun, but at least Rex, Pyra, Mythra, and Nia have each other. Alcamoth adopted the old siren system from Colony 9 to help unify the nation. I hope everyone enjoyed Fogstorm Belgazas as an homage to Blizzard Belgazas from XC1. Surprise! Ashera is here too! Crys is paying for his crimes as Moebius emotionally, but he has a strong support network. Crys is writing the Moebius Battle theme.
So my initial intention for this story was to make it as canon-compliant as possible. With the release of the artbook, however, who knows what bombshells Takahashi and co. have in store for us. As of right now, I have decided not to go back and edit any of the fic that has already been posted, nor wait for the full translation to keep writing.

Chapter 7: Rocking the Boat

Summary:

The Free Four react to Taion’s sudden disappearance. Shulk and Tora discover what’s happening with Alvis, and realize they’re fighting against a ticking clock. A formidable foe appears before the Free Four.

Notes:

Fiona’s section starts a bit before the fight with Fogstorm Belgazas. Mythra’s section takes place right as Sena and Mio’s Interlinks end. Shulk’s section picks up after Crys’ section.

Fiona

“I think I’m getting the hang of it, Tai Tai!” Fiona quietly cheered as she delicately adjusted the controls. The morning sun had just peeked its head above the horizon. Juni was asleep since they’d been up the longest. According to the little display, they were only a few hours away from Yesheva Harbor. 

“Yes, excellently done,” Tai Tai said. “At this pace, we should arrive by midday tomorrow.” Oh, maybe I don’t understand how to read that display as well as I thought.

“Nothing unusual on my readout either, Taion,” Irma added. Tai Tai’s still flinching any time Irmee talks, but at least he’s kept control of himself. 

“Thanks for your report. One of you, feel free to get some rest. I’ll wake Juniper.”

Before Fiona could suggest Irmee be the one to get some sleep, she beat her to the punch! “Fifi, I actually did manage to sleep a little while back at Sanctuary. You should head to bed, and I don’t want any of your usual self-sacrifice for the team, either!”

Fiona’s protest died in her throat. Losing with grace, she said, “Alright, I’ll go get some rest. I am still in my pj’s after all!”

“Sleep well, Fiona,” Tai Tai said. “I’ll wake you if we-“ His Iris lit up with a yellow-green, flaming serpent, then he disappeared in a column of light with no warning! Fiona rubbed her eyes, thinking maybe she’d been more tired than she thought. No luck, Tai Tai was still gone. She let out a small yelp of surprise. 

“Fiona, what’s wrong?” Juni said, as they rounded the corner. 

Fiona just pointed to the empty space and muttered, “Tai Tai vanished! He’s just gone!” Thankfully, Juni’s hearing was good enough that they heard her anyway. 

“What do you mean, he vanished?!”

“He just dissolved into light. Like a Blade being awakened in reverse,” Fiona stumbled backward into a seat. 

Irmee moved to the controls and began throwing the craft into reverse.

“Irma, what are you doing?” Juni asked. 

“If he disappeared at a specific point, what happens if he reappears and we’re no longer there?” she asked. “He’ll be stranded in the middle of the ocean!”

Tai Tai needs you, get it together Fiona! Think! How can I figure out if Tai Tai is okay? I know! I can try to call him! Fiona brought up the Iris Network and tried to place a call to Tai Tai. It rang briefly, then a message flashed across Fiona’s vision. She read the message aloud to her friends, “Target is currently out of range. Cannot place call across dimensional boundary using Iris Network.”

“What does it mean, dimensional boundary?” Juni asked. “Is Taion not in Alrest anymore?”

“I’m not sure, but can you both help me drop the anchor?” Irmee asked them. Spurred to action, the three of them worked in concert to secure the ship’s position in the ocean. 

“What do we do now?” Fiona asked, scared. 

“We wait for him to come back,” Juni replied. 

“For how long?”

“As long as it takes,” Irmee resolved. The trio sat in silence, eyes glued to the viewports hoping beyond hope for the reappearance of their missing friend. 

---

Luckily, it wasn’t a long wait. Only a few minutes later, Fiona spotted a sudden plume of steam burst from the sea. “There! Something just fell in!”

Juni focused their eyes on the space she pointed out. “It’s Taion! Throw him a life saver!”

“Way ahead of you!” Irmee called out from the bow of the ship, life preserver already in hand. “Taion! Grab hold of this; we’ll pull you in!” The flotation device sailed in a neat arc before splashing into the water near Tai Tai.

“You can do it!” Fiona cried out as he began to swim towards the life preserver. “Just a little further!” Still sputtering, Tai Tai grabbed a hold of the device. “Everybody, pull together! Follow my count. We pull on three! One, two, three!” The three of them, kept in sync by Fiona, made short work of reeling their soaked companion back onto the deck.

Tai Tai coughed and sputtered as water pooled around him on the deck. “Tai Tai! Are you okay? What happened?”

“I was about to ask you the same thing,” he replied. “One second I was wishing you a good rest, the next I’m inhaling seawater, blinded by steam.”

“Taion, it’s been over five minutes since you spoke with Fifi,” Irmee explained. “After which, you dissolved into light and disappeared.”

“I’m sorry, run that by me again?”

“It’s true!” Fiona exclaimed. “You vanished into light mid-sentence. Right after your Iris lit up with that snake symbol.”

“I had noticed a shift in my Iris, but I never thought it could cause me to vanish.”

“Fiona tried to call you,” Juni explained, “but all she got was a message saying we couldn’t reach you across the dimensional boundary!”

“Dimensional boundary? That can only mean I completely disappeared from Alrest.”

“That’s really worrying. Do we have any idea what caused it?” Irmee asked. 

“We can discuss it once we get moving. It’s more important than ever that we reach Agnus as soon as possible.”

As the Free Four quickly raised anchor and got themselves back on course, Tai Tai tried explaining what had happened. “I had very little warning. It felt like an old friend was crying out and desperately needed my help. Like one of you calling my name, beseeching me for aid. I accepted without a second thought. Even though I know for sure it wasn’t any of you asking for my help. This person, feeling, entity, whatever they are, felt just as important to me, somehow.”

“Even though you don’t know them now?” Fiona asked. 

“Precisely,” Tai Tai replied. 

“Definitely odd, but not much we can do about it right now,” Juni said. “We should do a rundown of your Iris functions, make sure everything still works the way we think it should.”

“I concur. I would loathe to find out something major had changed in the middle of battle. Leftheria is infamous for its aquatic monster problems.”

“Okay, Tai Tai! Try to bring up your Blade. Let’s see what happens!”

“Odd. I see my normal weapon, but there’s a symbol above your head Fiona. There’s one above Juniper’s as well. I’m going to try selecting the symbol over Fiona’s head.”

With a flash, Tai Tai’s clothes changed into a rather flattering outfit similar to her day clothes, holding her Blade weapon in his hands!

“Oh, Taion! You’re dressed like Fifi!” Irmee said as she joined them on deck. 

“And I have a fundamental understanding of how to use her Blade too. It’s fascinating. It’s not like I suddenly learned it, but like I’ve always known how. I wonder…” he tapped the air in front of him and his outfit changed to match Juni’s preferred combat gear. He even had Juni’s bow! “It’s just like I thought. It’s the same with your weapon Juniper. This could be very handy.”

As Tai Tai turned to face Irmee, his face morphed into a scowl. “Strange. I would have expected to be able to use your Blade as well, Irma. But the option appears to be grayed out. I can’t seem to interact with it at all. I wonder why all of these changes seem to single Irma out? I’m just as close with her as I am with Juniper and Fiona.”

Irmee sighed, but answered, “Something’s clearly going on beyond our understanding. We don’t have the facts to draw any real conclusions yet.”

“Let’s focus on the cool part that we do know!” Fiona encouraged. “Tai Tai got a really cool new power!”

“Here, here!” Juni added. 

“We should go inside before we’re spotted,” Tai Tai said. “We don’t want to draw any unwanted attention.” With that, the Free Four returned to the ship’s interior.

 

Mythra

Mythra waited impatiently for Sena and Mio to return to Alrest. Brighid, Mòrag, Zeke, Pandora, Linka, and Mythra’s spouses had been in the middle of a training session with Glimmer, Alexandria, Mio, and Sena (Tora, Poppi, Adenine, and KOS-MOS were investigating Origin). Without warning, Mio and Sena had Interlinked. “Here comes Sena,” Mythra announced. There was a flash and a wave of heat as Sena suddenly reappeared. 

“Welcome back, Firecracker,” Brighid said calmly. 

“Momma! Sorry, there wasn’t really time to explain, Lanzy just needed my help!”

“Easy there, Sena. You’re not in trouble,” Mythra tried to calm the young Bladeling. “We’re just wondering where Mio is. She Interlinked at the same time as you.”

“Lanz is always so bad at managing the heat buildup,” Sena said as she placed her left hand behind her head. “When he’s in the lead, our Interlink always ends first. Mimi’s still Interlinked with Noah. They’re probably mopping up the Unique Monster that came through the rift.”

“Sena, what do you mean, rift?” Glimmer asked nervously.

“It was like a tear in the world, almost. Black fog poured through it.”

“Sena, you closed the rift, right?” Mythra asked, concerned. 

“Yep! Eunie and Taion got a nice shot off and closed it.” 

Mythra breathed a sigh of relief, seeing Glimmer, Rex, and Linka do the same. With a flash and a burst of heat, Mio reappeared right where she had been before she left. “Welcome back, Mio,” Mythra greeted her. 

“Thanks, Mom. Sena, the fight had just about wrapped up when I left.” She turned to face Nia. “Mam, I know where Taion is! He’s aboard a ship heading to Yesheva Harbor with three of his friends. I promised I’d have you send a ship to greet him, not that he’ll remember.” Mythra groaned internally. Mikhail must have not spoken with Taion yet. I bet he doesn’t know they’re on that ship. 

“It will be good to see Taion again,” Nia said. 

“I agree,” Alexandria added, “he was always a delight to talk to.”

“I’ll have Siren keep an eye on them from above. I don’t love the idea of four unsupervised ten-year-olds alone on the ocean.” 

“I quite agree, Mythra.” Brighid added. 

Siren, scan the waters between Sanctuary and Leftheria for a lone undocumented ship. Alert me if they come under attack. The Artifice sent its affirmation back. “And that’s that taken care of. Luckily they’re within Agnian territory, so Siren can move about the airspace without kicking up much of a fuss.”

“We should get goin’,” Rex said, “the training session can wait. I’ll give Auntie Corrine a call and let her know we’ll be nearby. Wouldn’t want to just drop in on her without warning.”

“Sounds good to me Boss,” Linka nodded. “Want us to meet you by the docks?”

“Works for me. Thanks a bunch, Linka.” With her family and friends in tow, Mythra followed Linka to the docks. 

 

Shulk

“Poppi, can you hear me?” Shulk asked. 

“Roger, Roger, Shulk-Shulk!” the artificial Blade replied, in her QTPi mode. “Connection to Bionis is stable!”

“Thanks, Poppi,” Shulk said. Tora, Adenine, and KOS-MOS came into view as the artificial blade backed up. “What can you tell us about what’s happening with Origin?”

“From what Poppi could tell, Origin trying to shutdown and separate, but keep getting stopped by admin override. Worlds being held close together; unable to fully separate as result.”

“Admin override?”

“Yes. Only people with that power are Masterpon, Shulk, Melia, Nia, Poppi, and Alvis.”

“So Alvis is preventing the shutdown. I wonder why? They know our worlds can’t stay close like this for long.”

“Shulk-Shulk know Alvis best,” Tora said. “Can friend think of reason?”

“I’m not sure. Whatever it is, it will be important. There’s no way Alvis would risk our lives otherwise.”

“Poppi think something about Aionios is culprit.”

“That is a logical conclusion,” KOS-MOS affirmed. “The deviation from expected behavior after the Intersection confirms as much.”

“I wonder…” Adenine muttered. 

“Do you have an idea, Adenine?” Shulk asked the bookish Blade. 

“Shulk, I should inform you that the likelihood of my girlfriend perceiving your question in this state is negligible,” KOS-MOS informed him. “However, she should be more receptive to outside stimuli if I forcibly redirect her attention.” With that, she leaned in and gave Adenine a quick kiss on the cheek, seemingly breaking the Blade’s myopic introspection. 

“Oh, hello! Did you say something? I’m terribly sorry, I was absorbed in my thoughts.”

Shulk laughed to himself at that, before asking his question once more.

“I have a hypothesis,” Adenine began. “Recovery of people’s full Aionios memories requires outside intervention, correct?” Shulk nodded. “I think that may be because the memories are stored externally to the individual by necessity. When Origin restarted, the physical forms of those within Aionios would have been annihilated and recreated. For any memory of their time in Aionios to remain, it would have to be stored externally, since their bodies would have been restored using pre-Aionios data as the blueprint. While I’m fascinated by Off-Seeing music serving as a trigger, more importantly, the likeliest place for memories to be stored is Origin.”

“This is your agreed upon reminder to pause and take a drink of water, Adenine,” KOS-MOS said while handing her a glass of water. 

“Thanks, Kossy!” After pausing for a moment to take a drink, she continued. “Origin wasn’t designed to hold five millennia worth of memories from every person ages ten to twenty. It’s likely that those memories haven’t been moved to long-term storage.”

“Meaning they’d be lost when Origin shuts down!” Shulk realized. 

“Exactly!” Adenine agreed. “But there’s even more! Take it away, Kossy!”

“On behalf of Queen Nia, I was asked to perform a general scan on Origin. Most facets of the scan returned nominal data, expected of Origin’s normal functioning. However, when scanning for remaining souls, I expected a null result. All souls should have been restored to their physical bodies after the physical recreation of the two worlds. The scan revealed an enormous number of souls with no viable physical body are currently being stored in Origin.”

“How many souls?” Poppi asked. 

“Approximately 119,194,600.”

“Is friend serious?!” Tora exclaimed. 

That’s an incredible number of lives. No matter what we do, trying to store or revive that many people would be nearly impossible. The logistical nightmare of housing them alone would bring Keves to its knees.

“I am completely serious, Tora,” KOS-MOS said. “Furthermore, none of these souls can be classified as wholly Bionite or Alrestian. These souls, being unanticipated data, would also be lost should Origin complete its shutdown process.”

“That would certainly explain why Alvis would be willing to take such a large risk,” Shulk surmised. “If the memories of an entire generation and hundreds of millions of souls would be lost, they would do everything in their power to preserve them.”

“Now comes real question,” Tora said. “What Tora and friends do about it?”

“If it would be of assistance, I can provide a list of available options,” KOS-MOS volunteered. 

“Yes, let’s see what we can do.”

“Affirmative. The immediate options are as follows. Please note that this is meant to detail all that is possible, not agreeable. Option one: We take no action. The Fog Rifts continue appearing, Origin is damaged beyond repair, and all souls and memories of Aionios are lost. The two worlds collide and annihilate one another.”

Shulk’s stomach turned at the thought. 

“Option two: The remaining administrators override Alvis. Origin shuts down as intended, and the worlds resume their normal course, delaying the annihilation for another century. This option comes at the cost of any unrecovered memories of Aionios, and the souls stored aboard Origin. This is the easiest and quickest solution that does not ensure mutual destruction.” She paused for a breath. “This option may have the collateral damage mitigated by organizing mass memory recoveries. The impact of this psychologically is unknown both in the short and long term, but I find it highly likely this will cause subsequent complications.”

“Oh most definitely,” Adenine agreed. “Although I think more information is always better in the long run.”

“Option three: attempt to store the memories of Aionios and souls externally to Origin. While no current mechanism to store this quantity of data exists, it would be theoretically possible. This would involve sourcing a monumental amount of Origin metal, as no other physical substance appears capable of storing souls, aside from determining the makeup of their physical bodies and using technology akin to the Cradles deployed by Moebius. The question of which world to store the souls in would need to be resolved. I would also raise concerns that storing the memories externally would potentially prevent their restoration by the only known effective method.”

“Poppi is skeptical of viability of this option. Origin metal is precious resource, and most already used to construct Origin.”

“Option four is the riskiest that does not involve the guarantee of mutual destruction. I do not know if this is possible. We could attempt to remove the need for Origin to shut down. If the worlds were to merge properly, the immediate need to shut it down would be removed. The memories and souls could be stored so long as Origin generates sufficient power to remain operational.”

“This decision involves everyone,” Shulk said. “We need to bring this before the world leaders of both worlds. No matter what we decide, we’re going to need to come together to do it.”

“Tora will speak with friend Nia. Shulk-Shulk talk with Empress Melia?”

Shulk nodded. “I’ll speak to her. KOS-MOS, Adenine. Can you both start drafting out solutions for options three and four? I don’t know how much time we have, but I don’t want to waste it.”

“This request falls within Master Zeke’s specified parameters. I will begin working with Adenine on this matter.”

“Thank you, everyone. And good luck.”

 

Nia

“Is everybody ready to go?” Nia asked at the docks. Her question was answered with a collection of nods. As she stepped onto the gangplank of the ship, she heard Poppi’s voice calling out to her. 

“Friend Nia! Please to be waiting a moment!”

Nia turned to see Tora and Poppi running towards her. They look stressed. Whatever this is can’t be good news. She stepped back onto the docks and waited for her friends to reach her. When they did, she asked, “What’s all this ruckus about?”

“Masterpon and Poppi have grave news regarding state of Origin. Poppi needs Nia to be Queen for sharing of news.”

She stiffened up and tried to appear as regal as she could. Whatever this was had to be serious. “You have the undivided attention of the Queen of Agnus, Poppi and Tora,” she declared, slipping back into the false elocution she had used in Aionios out of habit. “Please, tell me what concerns you so?”

---

Fucking bollocks. Shite. That’s really, really bloody great. We just averted a damn apocalypse, now we’re standing on the brink of another one?! If we solve the problem, we condemn everyone who ever lived in the City, many of whom are my flesh and blood descendants, to oblivion. Not to mention losing the memories of everyone in Aionios. Titan’s bloody arsehole, this is bad. 

“Thank you for informing me of this matter, Poppi, Tora,” Nia said, trying not to let the panic show on her face. She turned to Zeke. “King Zeke, I am of the opinion that the nations of Alrest need to be consulted about this matter immediately.”

For once, Zeke looked deadly serious. “I wholeheartedly agree. I imagine our favorite Special Inquisitor can reach out to the Emperor of Mor Ardain on our behalf,” Zeke said as Mòrag nodded in confirmation, “but how do we want to reach the other leaders?”

“I can reach out to Queen Raqura and Chairman Niranira.”

“I’ll talk to Mikhail,” Mythra said. “Sanctuary should have a say in this too.”

“That leaves me with Prime Councilwoman Raziel of Unita Tatemoth,” Zeke said. Nia nodded. The nation was a relative newcomer to the political stage of Alrest; its Titan had been too far away from the World Tree for them to be involved in the other nations’ political affairs prior to the Architect’s final gift. Even though the Tatemians were isolated from the wider world, they were readily identified by the small, distinctive horns atop their heads. 

“I’m sorry, everyone, but I need to stay behind for this trip,” Nia told her family and friends. 

“That goes for Pandy and I too.”

“The Emperor will be happy to attend the summit,” Mòrag said, ending the call on her Iris. “He’s making the arrangements to travel to Agnus Castle as we speak.”

“I should stay as well,” Mythra said. “I need to be here if we’re hosting foreign dignitaries. If you run into an issue that warrants it, I can pilot Siren remotely.”

“You could always grant me access,” Alexandria said as innocently as she could manage. “I do have experience piloting a Ferronis.”

“Not a chance. Artifices are in a whole different league than a Ferronis,” Mythra refused. “Your first test run is not going to be without my direct supervision.”

“Well, you can’t blame a girl for trying!”

If these Fogbeast attacks don’t kill us, our daughters certainly will.

“Just so we’re clear,” Rex said, “Nia, Zeke, Pandoria, and Mythra are stayin’ here while the rest of us go pick up Mio’s friends?”

“That’s righty-o, chum,” Zeke replied. 

“Alright! That ship’s not gettin’ any closer. All aboard who’re comin’ aboard!”

Nia grabbed her husband by the arm and gave him a kiss (with no chorus of ‘ew’ from their daughters, that was new). “Don’t get swallowed by a titan, Rex.”

He laughed, “Don’t get slated for an execution then!”

“I know the woman in charge,” she laughed, “I think I’ll be alright.”

“We’ll see you soon, Mam!” Mio said as she gave her a hug.

“Good luck with politics!” Alex teased.

“Try not to start a war,” was all Glimmer contributed as Pyra rolled her eyes behind her daughter. 

“We’ll come back safe and sound,” Pyra said as she gave Nia one of her warm hugs that Nia just wanted to lose a day luxuriating in.

“You’d better!” Nia said. “I just got ya back, I ain’t about to lose ya again!”

Her family and friends boarded their ship, and Nia took Mythra’s arm and began the trek back to the throne room. “We’ve got a lot of work to do,” Nia told her wife. 

“Yes we do. But we pulled off the Origin Project. We’ll get through this too.”

 

Irma

Night fell on their crew, and Irma could see Taion kept nodding off at his station, and though he would catch himself and shake it off, the interval between dozings was progressively shorter each time. “Taion, you should get some sleep. You’ve been awake for almost twenty-four hours.”

“I agree with Irmee!” Fiona said, backing her up. “You need your rest for when we get to Leftheria.”

“Irma, Fiona, and I can handle navigation for the night,” Juniper added. “Get some rest.”

“Alright, but wake me the second anything out of the ordinary happens.” With that Taion went to the ship’s quarters. The initial hours of the night passed largely without incident. The waters were calm, and no monsters paid their vessel any mind. At around midnight, their casual conversation turned a bit more serious.

“Do either of you ever want to meet the Blade whose core you have?” Irma asked her companions. 

Juniper cocked their head to the side as they answered, “I’ve never really given it much thought. My gut reaction is no.”

“Why not, Juni?” Fiona asked. 

“I don’t know if I could bear the guilt,” Juniper answered. “Even though it wasn’t our fault, they lost such a large part of themselves. If I was in their position, I’m not sure I’d be able to separate the anger about that from the person with the other half of my core.”

“Well I want to meet them!” Fiona declared. “Thanks to them, I can help so many people. My body is stronger, and my senses are sharper. I think we could be a real team!”

“Now that’s a Fifi answer if I’ve ever heard one,” Irma laughed. “As for me, I think I’d like to, if the opportunity presented itself. I just wouldn’t go out of my way to make it happen. I don’t know how they feel about the whole situation. I wouldn’t want to open up old wounds.”

Juniper nodded. “I will admit, I am curious.”

“Where do you think they’d have gone?” Irma wondered aloud. 

“I’ve heard a lot of Blades looking for a better life wind up in Agnus with the Garfont Mercenaries,” Juniper said.

“I know we’re going to get Tai Tai help,” Fiona said while bouncing in her seat excitedly, “but do you think we could visit these mercenaries?”

“I think it would be foolish not to talk to them, given the opportunity,” Irma said. “I mean, when’s the next time we’re going to be in Agnus?”

“Agnus is really progressive about Blade Eaters too,” Juniper added. “We should bring it up to Taion when he wakes up.”

“For sure!” Irma agreed. 

As they fell into comfortable silence once again, Irma focused on double checking their course. Once she had confirmed everything was as she expected, she stepped out onto the bow of the ship, and enjoyed the feeling of the salty spray on her face and the breeze in her hair. The moon was bright tonight, but Irma couldn’t see it. It was obscured by the massive construct she had only seen in images: Origin. A colossal hemisphere made of strange metal that had saved their world. It was beautiful, bathed in moonlight. 

The familiar footsteps of Fiona drew Irma’s attention. “Oh, hi Fifi. Did you come out to get some fresh air as well?”

“Yes, I love the sea!” She smiled and did a little twirl in place. Irma’s heart rate started to pick up, and she couldn’t help but smile at the sight. Fiona paused to take her hair out of its signature bun before walking up to stand next to Irma. “I was worried about you,” Fiona admitted. 

“Why would you be worried about me?” Irma asked. “If it’s about Taion, I’m fine. Now that I know he didn’t mean it, I feel a lot better about it.”

“No, it’s not that,” Fiona said. “I was wondering how you were handling the prospect of going back home to Leftheria.”

“Oh. That. I don’t really have any memories of it, to be honest. I could tell you more about my late parents’ ship than I can about our house in Fonsett,” Irma admitted. “I remember a kind woman with dark skin that was always being followed by a bunch of other kids, and a scary-looking Blade that was actually a really good weaver, but that’s about it.”

“I’m here for you, Irmee,” Fiona said while she took her hand, “no matter what!” Fiona’s touch was electrifying. My heart feels like it’s going to explode! Her hands are so soft and nice!

“You know, Fifi? You look really pretty with your hair down like that.” Did I seriously just say that?! Sweet Aegis, strike me down. It would be a kindness. As Irma wished for Mythra to take pity on her, a massive shape appeared on the horizon. “What on Alrest? Fifi, are you seeing this?”

“I see it! I can’t make out what it is though.”

“Hold on, I have an idea.” Irma summoned her Blade. Using the scope on her rifle, she tried to get a better look at the new addition to the scenery. “It’s an Agnian warship,” Irma relayed to Fiona. “It’s labeled ‘H.M.S. Aletta’ and I can see the symbol for the Queendom of Agnus. It’s getting closer pretty quickly.”

“Do you think they’re here for us?” Fiona asked. 

“I don’t see-“

She was rudely interrupted by an ear-splitting roar. With half a mind to shoot the perpetrator, Irma turned to find the source. 

Nothing could have prepared her for what she saw. Five hundred feet back from their boat was an enormous serpent with six frills encircling its neck and a humanoid torso on its head that stared at their ship with its single, red eye. Its body, most of which was hidden beneath the waves, was made of an ominous black fog Irma had never seen before. The portion she could see above the waves was easily twenty times the size of their boat. 

Oh, that can’t possibly be a good thing. “We need to wake the others, and get out of here, now!” Irma shouted to Fiona, who put on her adorable yet serious face and they both rushed inside. 

Juniper and Taion were already at their respective stations. Irma took her place as Fiona activated the viewing screen. The monster was beginning to close the distance with unsettling speed for something that large. 

“Crew!” Fiona shouted. “Take evasive maneuvers! We’re getting out of here!”

“Is that Ophion?!” Taion asked incredulously.

“What’s Ophion?” Juniper asked. 

“It was an Artifice of Mythra’s,” Taion explained. “I remember reading it was destroyed after Malos took control of it during the second Aegis War. This shouldn’t be possible.”

An Artifice?! How is our luck this consistently terrible? Irma did her best to focus both on evading its attacks and keeping their heading towards Leftheria. Our only hope is that Agnian warship! We can’t outrun this thing forever. “Juniper, broadcast a distress signal. The shape ahead of us is an Agnian warship!”

“Twelve projectiles incoming!” Fiona called out. “Evading all of them won’t be possible. Raise the shields and brace for impact!”

The explosions rocked their ship as the missiles impacted. It took every ounce of strength Irma had to stay in her seat. Juniper called out “Shield integrity at sixty six percent. We can’t keep taking hits like that!”

 Juniper activated the emergency broadcast, and within seconds, they received a hail. “Opening communications!” They began to speak, “This is Juniper aboard the Tricera Class vessel. We are under attack and need assistance immediately! Our crew consists of four children including myself. I repeat, we need immediate backup, over!”

“This is Special Inquisitor Mòrag Ladair of the Ardanian Empire,” came the reply. Irma couldn’t believe what she was hearing. That’s the Flamebringer! We might actually survive this! “We are rapidly approaching your location. Hold on, and we will open our docking bay for you. What is the status of your vessel’s shield, over?”

Juniper responded, “Sixty-six percent, ma’am, over,”

“Our sensors cannot determine the nature of your assailant. What can you tell me about it, over?”

Juniper answered, “Large, serpentine creature. Composed of black fog. One of our members recognized it as the Artifice Ophion, ma’am, over!” 

Surprised gasps came from the other line. “Rex, call Mythra. It’s a Fogbeast shaped like Ophion!” They heard a voice they didn’t recognize say. The Flamebringer spoke once more, “Continue taking evasive maneuvers. Do not engage under any circumstances! Our artillery will be within firing range in three minutes. I will keep this channel open. Update me as the situation develops, over!”

“Yes, ma’am, over.”

“Eyes up, it’s attacking again!” Taion called out. “Two projectiles incoming from either side!”

“Throw us in reverse!” Fiona ordered. “We’ll make it overshoot!”

“Everybody hold on to something!” Irma called out as she quickly reversed their directions. As she held on for dear life, she could hear the engine’s ether converters scream in protest. Fiona’s plan worked like a charm, though; the two orbs of electricity impacted each other in front of their ship and detonated. Fifi really is incredible at taking charge when things get tough. Irma quickly pushed the engines back to full throttle, closing the distance between themselves and their saviors once again. 

The frills on the creature’s neck began rotating, steadily picking up speed. A purple glow appeared in its mouth, and it was getting brighter by the second. “The Annihilation Effect! We need to move, now!” Taion called out. A quick glance at her other friends confirmed none of them knew what he was talking about either. 

I don’t need to know a fancy name to know giant purple mouth lasers aren’t good for your health! I can’t go any faster, though. I don’t think we’re getting out of this one. Taion, Juniper, Fifi. It can’t just end like this!

She had an idea, a stupid idea. Maybe I can blind it, make it miss us. Better than just waiting here to die! She jumped up and ran for the stern, ignoring the calls of her friends. “Trust me!” she called out. 

Her Blade appeared in her hands, and she quickly adjusted the scope to its maximum range, and lined up her shot. I only get one shot at this, I have to make it count! The beast lowered its head, and prepared to fire. That’s what she’d been waiting for! She took the shot, the bolt of dark-element ether racing across the gap at blinding speed. It collided with its eye, scoring a direct hit! But something was wrong; the creature didn’t seem to flinch. You’ve got to be kidding. A direct hit to its eye didn’t even slow it down?!

Just as it seemed all hope was truly lost, a shaft of pure light fell from the heavens, detonating on impact with the creature. Irma looked up to find the source, and her jaw dropped. Siren?! Did the Aegis just save our lives?

 

Taion

The two Artifices’ shields collided, and Taion was thrown out of his seat on the bridge by the resulting shock wave. He crashed onto the floor and rolled several feet before he came to a stop. That’s definitely going to bruise. If we survive, that is. He tried to focus instead on the world around him. Glass was scattered around him in every direction, and the viewing screen was cracked. This is a disaster. Think Taion, or your friends are going to die!

Juniper helped him to his feet, and he saw Fiona had regained her footing as well. A horrible thought occurred to him. “Where’s Irma? Was she still outside when that shock wave hit?” Juniper nodded, then covered their sensitive ears as the sounds of the shields scraping against one another tore through the night air. 

“Irmee!” Fiona called out. Taion turned to see Irma fighting against the colossal waves. At the speed they were going, she was already becoming harder and harder to see.

In a rare outward display of emotion, Taion yelled out, “No! I won’t let any of you die!” Whoever you are, if you can hear me, I need you! Help me save her, help me save all of us! His left eye lit up as he dissolved into light. 

 

Eunie/Taion

Taion? What the snuff is going on, it’s the middle of the…what the spark is that thing?!

Taion scanned it with his Iris. The name ‘Haar Ophion’ appeared on his display, next to the threat indicator which read ‘Lv 117’. A Unique Monster like the one that attacked Alcamoth. 

I figured that out, you spoon! What’s the other one?

That’s Siren. It’s on our side. Right now, help me save Irma! Siren is more than capable of taking it on by itself for now.

“Irma, grab hold of my Mondo!” Taion instructed. They sent one of the giant Mondo her way, and, with some difficulty, she clambered on. Confusion was evident on her face. 

“Taion, is that you?” she asked. “You sound older.”

Eunie answered, “We don’t have time to explain it, love. Just trust us and hang on!” As the Mondo returned to the ship, Taion saw Siren begin to disengage from the struggle. 

Taion, where’s Siren going?

I’m not sure. My guess is it’s clearing space for the Aletta’s artillery. Meaning we should make ourselves scarce as well. 

Eunie took one look at the Aletta’s cannons. You don’t need to tell me twice. Let’s leg it!

As the pair fell back, two pulses of ether fired from the Aletta, crashing into Ophion with thunderous force. Thanks to the Ouroboros’ speed, it wasn’t long before they reached the Agnian warship. The pair quickly took stock of the individuals on deck preparing for battle as they approached. 

Gimme a rundown, Eunie asked him, I recognize Mio, Sena, and Rex, but I’ve got no clue who the others are. 

The woman in military gear with the dual whipswords is Special Inquisitor Mòrag Ladair. The woman standing beside her and Sena is Brighid, her Blade and wife. 

Wait a snuffin’ second, doesn’t she look a lot like Sena?

Of course she does. They’re Sena’s parents. 

Wait, how does that work? I get the raising bit, but I feel like there’s some mechanical questions that need answerin’ for how they made Sena.

That’s really not important right now, Eunie.

Obviously, but that don’t mean I’m not curious. Who else?

The woman standing next to Rex is Pyra. She’s an Aegis. 

I don’t know what that means, but I’m gonna assume it means she’s extra tough.

The woman with green hair and glasses is Linka, Crown Princess of the Kingdom of Tantal. 

She looks like she knows how to get stuff done. Ashes and flames, look at the girls next to Mio and Sena! That’s Alexandria and I’d bet money the girl with red hair next to Pyra is the founder of House Rhodes!

Princesses Alexandria and Glimmer. They’re Mio’s sisters. How odd, I never thought about it in Aionios. Just how much of the City’s population were Rex’s descendants?

“Mimi, look! It’s Eunie and Taion!” Sena’s voice came from below between salvos fired at the beast. Out of the corner of their eye, Taion could see the Tricera Class vessel (or what was left of it, at least) had docked internally. 

“There’ll be plenty of time for reunions later!” Linka yelled.

“Look sharp, it’s almost in range to fight back!” Rex called out.

As Rex drew his weapon, the affinity link flared to life, glowing brilliant gold.

“Everybody, listen carefully! This foe is extremely dangerous!” Taion called out. 

“Yes, we figured as much,” Alexandria replied. 

“Yeah, what Taion means is its mouth! Its whole face is basically an Annihilator!”

“Crap!” Rex said. “We’ve got to close the distance. If it uses that power-“

“-we’re as good as dead!” Glimmer finished his sentence for him. 

“Kill the artillery fire!” Mòrag ordered. “We’ll be engaging it at close range.” Without a single question, the cannons fell silent. Ophion roared and let loose a salvo of missiles. 

“Not today!” Taion intercepted the missiles with several Mondo, and they detonated harmlessly away from the ship.

“Lady Mòrag, we won’t be much help out there,” Brighid said. 

“I know. I wouldn’t ask you to fight in water. We’re staying behind. Someone needs to be our last line of defense for our new guests,” Mòrag said. “The rest of you, watch yourselves and each other!”

“I should probably stay back too,” Linka admitted.  “I don’t want to shock you all by accident.”

“Mio, Sena! Interlink and follow me,” Taion directed them. “We’ll clear a path for the others.” With flashes of light, Mio and Sena’s forms disappeared, with their Ouroboros taking their place. 

We’ll let Mio and Noah kick up some spray. It will be perfect for setting up an illusion. 

Let me guess: then Sena and Lanz hit ‘em hard and fast, right?

Precisely.

As Mio’s Ouroboros raced forward, kicking up sea foam as they went, Taion called out the plan. “Mio and Noah; Create as much visual noise with seawater as you can! Eunie and I will use it to create an illusion to cover everyone’s approach. Once we’re in position, I’ll give the signal. Hit it with everything you have when you hear ‘scatter’!”

“On it!” Mio responded. Their Ouroboros moved swiftly, making arcing turns and quick bursts of speed, water flying in their wake. 

Taion scattered Mondo all around them. Hundreds of illusory copies of Mio’s Ouroboros began darting in different directions, accompanied by illusory waves to match. 

The Fogbeast roared in anger, ejecting another volley of missiles from its back. One by one, the twelve missiles detonated, only to reveal that their target had been illusory. Mio and Noah delivered a potent strike from behind before disappearing into the chaos once more. 

As Taion and Eunie watched the others get into position, Taion had a realization. The creature is using that attack like an Annihilator, correct?

Yeah, what’s your point?

Annihilators can’t generate that attack on their own. They need an ample supply of black fog. Since the monster isn’t any smaller after using the attack-

It has to be drawing in the fog from somewhere else! The only place I can think of is that rift. 

If we can take out that rift, that attack should be removed from its arsenal. 

Then what are we waiting for?

The right opening. With everyone in position, Taion called out, “Scatter!” and snapped the Ouroboros’ fingers. All at once, Mondo revealed themselves and swarmed the monster, detonating on impact. 

The Master Driver and his non-Interlinked children dove in with a coordinated assault. The raw power Rex wielded was astonishing, especially with Glimmer’s support. Each blow drove the creature back, sending it reeling with the force of the impacts. Each moment it was distracted, Alexandria rushed in and struck at the being’s joints, before dodging an attack Taion knew she could not have seen coming. 

Whoa, check out Alexandria! I didn’t know she could move like that. 

Perhaps her abilities as an Aegisborn were suppressed in Aionios. Taion leapt into the fray, sending scorching energy along the beast’s neck. “Try to make an opening. We need to close that rift! It should stop it from using the Annihilator attack!” he cried while dodging a concentrated blast of wind. 

“Speak of the Consul,” Eunie muttered. Haar Ophion’s neck frills began to rotate as energy built in its mouth. “This is bad! It’s aiming for the Aletta!”

My binding technique will take too long!

Sena’s Ouroboros raced forward as the charge neared completion. “Not gonna happen!” she yelled as she leapt up onto the Fogbeast’s neck and began pulling the creature’s head upwards. “Hgurah!” The drawn out voices of Lanz and Sena rang out in unison as the pair pulled the Unique Monster’s neck skyward with incredible strength, stubbornly holding it in place as the energy was released, even as the black fog ate away at their form. The deadly annihilation event happened miles above them, with nothing caught in the blast. 

Ophion whipped its neck back and forth rapidly, attempting to dislodge the unwanted passenger on its back. Sena’s Ouroboros was too weakened by the black fog to maintain their grip any longer. The pair were flung from its back, skipping like an angrily tossed rock across the water’s surface. Undeterred, the pair charged even as their form repaired itself. Ophion spread the arms of the humanoid torso on its head wide, and its whole body was illuminated with a dark purple glow as it was enveloped in an energy field. The Ouroboros reared back for a massive strike, then brought their hammer down. 

Rex’s warning came too late to stop them. “Don’t! That barrier reflects attacks!”

The hammer connected, and Eunie and Taion watched in horror as Sena’s Ouroboros nearly overheated in an instant from absorbing the force of their own attack. “Crap, gotta cancel it! Don’t die on me, Sena!” Lanz said as the form of the Ouroboros dissipated, leaving the girl with the gall in a cloud of steam amongst the waves.

“Everyone, be patient! The barrier won’t be up for long,” Pyra informed them. “It can’t attack while it’s up!”

There’s the window I was waiting for. “Mio, Rex, Pyra,” Taion instructed, “take the opportunity and close that rift! The rest of us will watch your backs!” I’ll be ready to lock it in place if it decides to lower its defenses. 

Thorough as always, Taion. 

Naturally. When it comes to the safety of my allies, I prefer to mitigate risks wherever possible.

As Rex, Pyra, and Mio’s Ouroboros approached the rift, the monster reacted predictably. It dropped its barrier, and tried to begin an assault on their allies, but Taion was ready. “Eightfold Divide!” came the cry as countless Mondo encircled Ophion and bound it in place, temporarily rendering all of its attacks useless. Rex’s assault was relentless, and combined with Mio’s Ouroboros’ offensive, it was clear the rift would not last long.

“Da, Mum, let’s finish this!” Mio yelled out. 

“We strike together!” Rex responded. Rex and Pyra grasped the hilt of Pyra’s weapon together, each of them glowing gold as Mio let loose countless rings. 

“Resonant Edge!”

“Burning Sword!”

The beams of light from Mio’s rings collided with the rift as it was engulfed in a pillar of roaring flames. The attacks did their work well, with no trace of the rift remaining as the steam cleared. Ophion broke free of its shackles, and moved to attack the trio, its single eye burning with malice.

“We’ll weaken it as much as we can!” Taion said. Mondo formed duplicates on either side of them. Together, they created three cylinders of Mondo and sent them flying forward. Ophion was weakened by their impact, creating chinks in its armored fog.

“And keep you all healed up too!” Eunie said. They brought their hands up in front of them, a glowing green ball of ether forming between their fingers. It rearranged itself into a hexagonal shape, then blossomed outward in a repeating pattern. The glow turned purple and their allies' wounds began to close, the natural healing of their bodies stimulated by the Ouroboros’ powers.

Mio’s Ouroboros pulled Ophion’s attention with their acrobatic attacks, but Ophion’s assault was relentless. Taion winced as Sena was hit with multiple projectiles. Glimmer was there in an instant to help her to her feet and aid Taion and Eunie in patching her up. Meanwhile, Alexandria was dancing between attacks like no one he’d ever seen before. She’s baiting it. She’s purposefully trying to split its attention between herself and Mio. Alexandria saw them looking, and she gave a wink and a pointed nod before looking up to the night sky. So that’s her plan. 

“Fall back, we need to clear space!” Taion instructed, praying they would all listen. Sena landed a blow and used the recoil to spring backwards while Mio and Noah picked up Mio’s parents. Taion began incanting the Eightfold Divide, pinning Ophion in place for what he hoped was the final time.

“What are you doin’, lad?” Rex asked from Mio’s Ouroboros’ palm. “We can’t beat it by retreatin’!”

Rather than respond, Taion projected the energy barrier and braced for impact. 

Alexandria rode a wave generated by Ophion’s thrashing backwards. As it crested, her core lit up, illuminating her look of intense focus. Moments later, Siren fired from above. The orbital laser struck the Fogbeast and tore it apart until nothing remained. Alexandria slumped over in exhaustion, only for Glimmer to swim forward and carry her sister towards the Aletta.

Um, Eunie thought to him, since when did Alex have giant space lasers?

She just borrowed it for that attack. It belongs to her mother, Mythra.

Your world is sparkin’ wild, Taion. If it’s dead, I should get back. Even if I won’t get any decent sleep. I should still try to rest. 

Before you go, Eunie. Try page thirty four before bed. It should help with nightmares. 

Taion, if this works, I’ll sparkin’ kiss you!

Wait, what? The Interlink ended before he could get a reply.

Notes:

Hero Quest Complete: Rescue Taion! New Hero Class Unlocked: Master Driver! Inheritor: Mio.
The gang’s all together again…except Manana. I wonder where she is? Our heroes certainly have their work cut out for them, deciding how to handle the situation with Origin. Taion, Juniper, Fiona, and especially Irma have a pivotal choice ahead of them now. Will they choose to regain their memories? And if they do, what will that do to the bonds they have forged with each other in Alrest?

Chapter 8: You Will Recall Our Names

Summary:

The Free Four are faced with a difficult choice. Pandoria and Zeke greet the Prime Councilwoman while Rex and Glimmer have a heart-to-heart. The Aionios Summit begins, and a certain chefypon is mentioned at long last. 

Notes:

Content Warning: This chapter depicts suicidal ideation, suicide crisis intervention, mentions of torture, and the fallout of psychological abuse. This starts in Taion's section with Fiona shouting "How could you?!" and ends with "Mio, Sena, Juniper, and Taion all shared a sigh of relief."

Taion

Once again, Taion found himself splashing into the ocean, surrounded by steam, with no real explanation. For some reason, he could feel his cheeks flushed with heat, though for the life of him he couldn’t tell you why. The last thing he remembered was begging that mysterious entity for help, and with his glasses thoroughly fogged up, he had no clue if he had made a difference or not. At least I wasn’t mid sentence this time. I avoided another mouthful of seawater. 

As his glasses defogged, his train of thought was interrupted when a fifteen foot tall being with a white body, purple hair, and yellow accenting rings broke through the steam and a woman’s voice started speaking to him. “Taion, let me help you on deck. The Fogbeast is destroyed.”

“Who are you,” he asked, “and how do you know me?”

“That’s a bit complicated to explain,” a man’s voice said this time, “but all we want to do is get you safely to the Aletta.”

“We’ll explain everything once you’re on board, I promise. We can tell you about all the strange things you’ve been experiencing.”

That caught Taion’s interest. This was by far his most promising lead yet. This is a risk to be certain, but given the circumstances, I think it’s an acceptable one. “Fine. I’ll accept your aid. If you are with the Aletta, that earns you a degree of my trust.”

The being scooped him up gently in their hand, and began skating across the surface at blinding speed. Within moments, they leapt up from the ocean’s surface to the deck of the Aletta. A crowd was waiting for them. Taion breathed a massive sigh of relief as he saw Fiona, Irma, and Juniper on deck and relatively unharmed. The being gently set him down, appeared to get lost in thought for a moment, then vanished into light as a wave of heat passed over the deck, leaving the recognizable form of Crown Princess Mio Eschel in their place. I don’t remember any stories about the princess transforming like that. What on Alrest is going on? He had little time to contemplate that, however. He was far too busy being swarmed by his friends giving him hugs.  

“Taion!” Juniper said, “Thank goodness you’re alright!”

“You were so cool, Tai Tai!” Fifi cheered, quite confusingly. “You took total control of the situation. And that form was so pretty! They even used big versions of your Mondo!”

“You and that woman saved my life,” Irma said. “Without you, I was a goner out there.”

“What are you all talking about?” Taion asked, confused. “What form?”

“Tai Tai, are you telling me you don’t remember any of that fight?”

“Oh, I distinctly remember being tossed across the ship like a rag doll,” he defended himself. “And I remember watching in horror as Irma faded into the distance, alone in the ocean with Ophion.”

“You really don’t remember turning into that giant being at all?” Juniper said. 

“Perhaps I can shed some light on the situation,” came the voice from behind him, somehow familiar and foreign simultaneously. Taion turned to face them, and saw the voice’s owner was none other than Crown Princess Mio Eschel herself. She was accompanied by someone Taion only vaguely recognized as Sena Ladair. “If you’ll let me, that is.”

“Ohmygosh!” Fiona barely squeaked out. “You’re the princess of Agnus! That’s so cool!”

She recognizes us. They both do. But how? We’ve never so much as seen them in person.

“We understand your confusion surrounding the past few days,” the princess said, gesturing to Sena as she spoke. “We experienced much the same thing ourselves. I’ll do my best to answer your questions. There is an alternative method, but it’s hardly a decision to make lightly.”

Taion spoke, being sure to look Princess Mio dead in the eye as he did, “Why did I attack my friend just from hearing her voice?”

“Because, Taion, your body remembers that the last time you heard it, Irma was trying to kill you. You and Fiona,” came the sobering reply.

“What?!” Taion cried, outraged. That’s absurd. Something clicked in his mind then. Wait a moment, we never told her our names. “And how do you know us?”

“Taion, please!” Sena pleaded to him. “Just listen to Mimi. It will make sense, I promise!”

“You just accused one of my best friends of attempted murder!”

“I would never hurt Taion or Fifi!” Irma joined in his outrage. 

“Please, let me explain! The you that exists here in Alrest wouldn’t. I know that,” Mio said. “I can see the way you all look at each other, how you move to cover each other’s blind spots without even thinking about it. I was just trying to answer Taion’s question as honestly as I could, but there’s a lot more to this story!” She took a deep breath. “I’ll start from the beginning. You four are aware of the event known as the Intersection, correct?”

“Of course,” came Juniper’s reply. 

“Something happened in that split second. An entire world called Aionios was created, and existed for some five thousand years.”

Audible gasps came from Taion and his friends. An entire world? Five thousand years crammed into a single moment? If she’s lying, she’s certainly not very good at it. “And I don’t suppose you have proof of this Aionios, do you?”

“It’s how we know you all. We met in the final days of Aionios.”

“No, I’m going to need more than that,” Taion shook his head. “You’re the Crown Princess of Agnus. You have access to more than enough resources to have researched us all beforehand.”

“Then how could I convince you, Taion? How can I show you I’m not making up the world’s most unbelievable lie?”

“You mentioned another method.”

Sena looked panicked for a moment, her eyes darting between Fiona and Irma. “Taion, that’s not an easy choice.”

“Nothing in my life has been easy; try me.”

Mio spoke, “I can restore your memories of Aionios. But it’s irreversible. Many of those memories will be unpleasant. Traumatic. For some of you, it could obliterate your very sense of self.”

“But,” Sena added, “we met wonderful people too. We forged bonds that made us better people.”

“What was Aionios, to create such extreme experiences?” Juniper wondered aloud.

“I’ll explain how that world worked,” Mio said. “To give you all a better idea of what kinds of things you would remember.”

---

How horrific. A world where war and strife were all encompassing, its people trapped in a perpetual cycle of violence, solely for the benefit of a shadowy, entitled elite.

“I think I’m gonna be sick,” Fiona said before sprinting to the edge and heaving her guts out into the waves.

“Those are the memories you’d offer us?” Taion questioned. 

“They wouldn’t be the only memories, but yes. That’s why I’m so hesitant.”

“There’s more to it than that, isn’t there?” Juniper asked pointedly. 

“Yes there is,” Sena answered. “Mimi and I knew you all. And we became really good friends with Taion, Fiona, and you. I miss you.”

Ah, so that’s why. But why are they so nervous about Irma? Time to play a part of my hand. 

“The shadowy elite you mentioned. Does their group have a name?” Taion asked. 

“Moebius,” was Mio’s reply. Suddenly, the pair’s behavior towards Irma made perfect sense. Irma had been a part of Moebius. That’s what all the information he had pointed to, at least. Irma would be devastated to learn she hurt us all, not to mention the world. If nothing else, it proves there was a modicum of truth to her story. The word Moebius should only be known to the people of Sanctuary that heard me that day. Not only did she know it, she could ascribe meaning to it. Meaning that aligned with my instinctual reaction to the word. “I’ll do it.”

“What?” Mio asked. 

“You can restore my memory,” he said. 

“Taion, you’re doing this because you want to, right?”

“I am,” he lied. I’m doing it so they won’t necessarily have to. And I am too curious about my other selves to turn away from this. 

“If your mind's made up, then come with me,” Mio instructed while holding out her hand for him to take. “We need to do this somewhere isolated, so only your memories return.”

“We should do it together!” Fiona chimed in. 

What is she doing?!

“We’re a team! Either everyone goes in together, or no one goes in!”

“Fiona,” Sena said, a nervous edge to her voice, “I really don’t know if that’s a good idea.”

“I won’t be swayed!” Fiona cried. “Tai Tai, Irmee, Juni, and I have always been there for each other. We stick together! It’s what’s gotten us this far. This is too important to let anyone do it alone!”

“I agree,” Juniper said. “We do this together, come what may.”

“I’ll do it too!” Irma said, somewhat shakily. “I believe that our bonds here will see us through, no matter what we remember.”

As Sena moved to argue, Taion sighed. “Don’t waste your breath. Once they’re like this, they won’t back down.”

“If you are all going to recover your memories, simply take a seat,” Princess Mio instructed. “I can do it right now.”

Taion did as he was told. She never did say how she would manage to restore these memories, did she? He was surprised when she took out a flute. Before he could question it, she brought the flute to her lips and began to play.

The song took his breath away. It was haunting and mournful, yet filled with hope at the same time. Images flashed through his mind as he felt Juniper and Fiona’s hands squeeze his own. He saw countless battlefields, remembered the horrid sensations of wounds on his flesh, and the fear of running out of life. A Tatemian woman’s face was accompanied by the most tired-looking Blade Taion had ever seen. Tears sprang from his eyes as lifetimes of grief and loss overwhelmed him. He saw himself fighting a group of warriors, only to then band together with them. His bond with a woman with feathers on her head was particularly strong. 

Mio’s song reached completion, with everyone’s Blades appearing, and suddenly he remembered. He remembered everything. Nimue, Commander Isurd, Mio, and Sena. Ethel, Noah, and Lanz. Eunie. Eunie . How had he forgotten Eunie? The same way you didn’t recognize your friends from Alrest when you met them in Aionios. He felt Fiona’s hand leave his own. She was scrambling backwards, away from Irma, who was completely stunned. 

“How could you?!” Fiona yelled as tears streamed down her face. “Why?! Why did you join them, Irma? Why did you become Moebius?!”

Not good. Fiona’s not using her nickname.

“I was tired of losing you! Of failing, over and over, to protect you, Fifi!”

“No, don’t you dare! Don’t you dare call me that! You got my friends killed! You tortured us! Why, Irma?”

“Do you have any idea how many times you died in my arms? Or worse, I lost you in the smoke and only after the battle I would find your husk?” Irma’s face was red, her eyes streaming tears. “When Z offered me a chance to protect you, I took it! I thought, if I was in charge, I could keep your Colony safe. You’d have enough life, but never risk going Gold. I could even hide the Flame Clock so you wouldn’t be anxious about its level. I didn’t realize what immortality, or living like that would do to me! How seeing people as little more than game pieces would warp me. By the end, I was grateful I was dying. I hated who I became, but I couldn’t stop myself. I don’t deserve you all, I know that!” Her hand twitched, and her Blade changed into twin pistols. The same ones she fought us with at Colony Mu. She began to raise them slowly.

This is exactly what I was afraid of. She’s spiraling. We need to intervene before she does something she won’t live to regret. 

“Irma, dismiss your Blade,” Taion said calmly. “You aren’t thinking rationally right now. Don’t do anything rash.”

“Please, Irma,” Mio pleaded, “As a former Moebius, please, let’s talk through this. Things can be better!”

“No matter how badly you’re hurting, it’s not worth your life!” Juniper implored her. “Please, I’ve seen the edge of despair. I know that temptation all too well. Ouroboros helped me find my way back from the brink. They can help you too!”

Irma raised a pistol to her temple. Spark. 

“Irmee, don’t do it!” Fiona cried out in desperation. “Please,” her voice was choked by sobs, “I may be mad at you, but you’re still the most important person in the world to me!” She began to close the distance as she continued talking. “Irmee, you’re so, so special. And this isn’t you, Irmee. You’re not a coward. You can’t atone if you take this way out.” Fiona had reached Irma. She gently pulled the girl into a hug. “Please, don’t leave me alone again Irmee.”

For a horrible moment, there was only silence. Then, Irma dismissed her Blade and started sobbing into Fiona’s shoulder. “The last thing I want to do,” she choked out, “is hurt you again.”

Mio, Sena, Juniper, and Taion all shared a sigh of relief. A wave of lethargy hit him all at once. Right. I only slept for half an hour. I’m going to go fix that, I think. “Mio, Sena?” he whispered. “Can you please keep an eye on Irma tonight? I desperately need to sleep.”

“Of course, Taion,” Mio nodded. 

“You can count on us,” Sena whispered. 

 

Pandoria

Pandoria and Zeke stood at the docks of Agnus Castle as the sleek, almost crystalline flagship of the Tatemian navy docked in front of them. It joined the other impressive crafts docked here: the metallic Titan Ship of Mor Ardain, the natural materials and curved design from Uraya, the trademark floating craft of Argentum, and the Monoceros from Sanctuary. 

“Ready, Pandy?” Zeke asked her. 

“Ready!”

“Then let’s go greet Queen Nia’s honored guest.”

Prime Councilwoman Raziel stepped out onto the gangplank. She was an imposing figure, standing a full two heads above Pandoria, and that was without her impressive horns. She had deep brown skin, fiery red-orange eyes, and muscles like Zeke’s. The weapon on her back was a deep orange longsword that pulsed subtly with her core crystal; the red colors within said core danced like flames. She was dressed in a simple, yet elegant red dress. There were slits in the side to facilitate easier movement. 

“Prime Councilwoman Raziel, on behalf of Queen Nia, welcome to Agnus and thank you for coming to this summit on such short notice,” Zeke said while flashing his gorgeous smile.

“She would have loved to be here herself,” Pandoria added, “but Chairman Niranira arrived right before your lovely ship came into view, so she’s likely on her way back down.”

Raziel laughed, a rich tenor, and pulled Pandoria into a hug. “C’mon now, Pandoria. We’re all friends here, no need to be stuffy! And don’t you worry, I’m not offended that Nia's not here in person. Agnus has been a staunch ally! I am a bit surprised she has you two doing the greeting and not one of her spouses, though.”

“Mythra’s running the security show,” Zeke explained, “and Rex and Pyra are off making sure important people get where they need to go.”

“So you’re stuck with us!” Pandoria teased.

“Joking aside,” Raziel said, “you two sounded pretty damn serious last night. How bad are we talking, here?”

Pandoria’s face soured. “Apocalyptic.”

“But with like, moral quandaries,” Zeke added. 

“Can’t catch a damn break, can we?” Raziel sighed. “Well, we averted the apocalypse less than a week ago. I hope Nia’s got another Origin in her pocket.”

“Come on, we’ll take you upstairs,” Pandoria said. “The summit won’t start until noon, but they’re serving light snacks in the meantime.”

“Lead the way.”

 

Glimmer

As dawn broke, Glimmer stood on the deck of the Aletta as it pulled into Yesheva Harbor to refuel and repair the damage done by Haar Ophion. The port was already bustling with activity, despite the early hour. Humans and Blades alike worked to unload cargo from a merchant vessel marked with Argentum’s insignia while others brought fresh produce aboard. Despite recent events, Glimmer couldn’t help relaxing as she gazed out at the familiar path leading to Fonsett. She had many fond memories of vacations spent in the small village with her family. 

Thoughts of family drove her mind to once again acknowledge the hole in her heart. The lack of Nikol, Ember, and Velkis’ comforting presences weighed heavily on her. Nikol, at least, she was confident was as safe as she was. He was with Shulk, in some way or another. Huh. I guess he might be older than me now. Just because we happened to be in the same Term in our last cycle doesn’t actually mean we were the same age before Aionios. The idea of a Nikol that was actually taller than her just felt weird. Weirdness aside, her husband was alive again. While he may be beyond her reach for now, he was alive. For now, that was enough. 

A pang of jealousy towards Mio caught her off guard. More specifically, of her ability to Interlink with Noah. She got to know her partner was okay. It’s not Mio’s fault she was the one that got to benefit from Nikol and Riku’s work on the Ouroboros Stone. I do wonder what it feels like to Interlink with just one person.

What she was far more worried about were her children, and their descendants by extension. They were trapped as souls, with no way out of Origin as far as she knew. She knew that the chances of her having Ember and Velkis again when she was older were astronomically small. Having even one of them be an exact genetic match was close to one in sixty-four trillion odds. Even if she could get the stars to align, would they even be the same kids she’d raised and, as they grew into adults with families of their own, become good friends with? Congrats, Glim. You did it. You found a parenting situation that somehow feels worse than Empty Nest Syndrome. If that wasn’t so depressing, I’d be impressed. She shook her head and steeled her resolve. I won’t be discouraged. I’m an Aegisborn. Making impossible things happen is what we do. Glimmer heard footsteps on the deck behind her, and turned to see Rex walking up to her. 

“You’re up early, Glim,” he said. 

“Couldn’t sleep. Figured I could use some air,” she responded. 

Rex’s face scrunched up. “Glim, we should talk.”

“About Aionios?  About how you never told me who you were despite weeks of traveling together?”

“Yes. I’m sorry, Glimmer. I should’ve told ya’,” he sighed. “I was an idiot not to.

“Damn right you were!” Glimmer said. “Do you have any idea what that could have done for the City? What you could have shared with me? Why are you making that face?”

“That‘s not the part I expected you to be mad about,” Rex admitted. 

“You thought I’d be hurt personally? I am, but remember, Rex, I’m a parent too. I get why you did it. I’m not sure I could have told Ember and Velkis if I was in your shoes.”

“Ember and Velkis?” Rex asked. “Were they your kids, Glim?”

“They are my kids, not were,” Glimmer corrected. “They’re still alive, in Origin. As are my grandkids, Ignis, Lythia, Soukin, and Pikon. And their many descendants I never got the chance to meet besides,” Glimmer couldn’t help but laugh, despite the serious topic. “Sorry, sorry. I still can’t get over how ridiculous this sounds in my ten year old voice.”

“It is a bit absurd, isn’t it?” Rex laughed with her before getting serious again. “I hope you know, even if you’re older than me up here,” he said while he tapped her forehead, “I’m still your Da. You can always talk to me about anything that’s on your mind.”

“Thanks, Rex. I hope you don’t mind me calling you that. ‘Da’ feels a bit odd after we fought together as Glimmer and Rex for so long,” Glimmer admitted.

“I’ll consider it my penance for lying to ya,” Rex said. “S’long as you’re in my life Glimmer, you can call me Rex as much as ya like.”

“Rex,” Mum called from behind them as she walked up. “Oh, good morning Glimmer!”

“Morning, Mum.”

“Rex, I just finished talking with the repair crew. They say it will take at least a day to finish patching up the ship.”

“Let’s make the most of it, then,” Rex said. “We’ll take everybody into Fonsett, and we can spend the night at Auntie Corrine’s.”

A thought crossed Glimmer’s mind at the mention of Fonsett. “Right. Mio wanted me to tell you both something. She wants to talk to you about working on a new class? I’m not totally sure what she meant.”

“Thanks for the heads up, Glim.”

“No problem.” The trio walked in sync, casual conversation filling the air as they went to organize everyone for their trip to Fonsett. 

---

Glimmer smelled the orphanage before she saw it. A delectable mix of frying bacon, egg, and pancake mix flooded her senses, mixing with the unique, earthy scent of the quaint village. Not much had changed since she was last here, although that had only been a few months in Alrest’s history. The same well worn paths crisscrossed the village, leading from residences to the selection of thriving shops and back again. The sounds of children’s laughter filled the air, soon accompanied by the sounds of many small footsteps hitting the dirt paths. The salty breeze filled Glimmer with vigor, as if something deep within her recognized this place as home, despite her never living here. 

Their group reached the orphanage quickly; it was still nestled close to the fields and the arch leading out of the village by the steps to the Village Guardian. “Auntie, we’re here!” Rex called out, far louder than he needed to. The kitchen was in the same room as the entrance, after all. Auntie Corrine turned around, a massive smile on her face. “My goodness! Alexandria, Glimmer, Mio! You’ve all grown so much!” Auntie Corrine gushed as she slowly made her way over to greet them, the sound of her cane connecting with the floor bringing a nostalgic smile to Glimmer’s face. 

“Auntie,” Glimmer replied, “trust me, you have no idea how true that is.”

“What do you mean, Glimmer? Auntie’s seen some things, believe me. You’ll have to try pretty hard if you want to surprise this old woman!”

“I think she might jus’ manage, Auntie,” Rex said as he brought the woman who raised him in for a hug. 

“Oh it’s so good to see you, Rex! And Pyra and the kids as well! Where’s Nia and Mythra? I was under the impression from Miss Linka that you were all coming.”

“It’s a long story, Auntie Corrine,” Pyra said as she was hugged as well. 

“Well you’ll just have to tell me over brunch then, dear,” she replied. “Lady Mòrag, Lady Brighid, and young Miss Sena! Always a pleasure.”

“Likewise,” Mòrag said. “You are always a most gracious host.”

“Now I don’t believe I’ve met your four before,” Auntie Corrine said to the quartet of Blade Eaters from Sanctuary. “My name’s Corrine.”

“Pleasure, ma’am. My name is Taion.”

“Goodness, what a polite young man!”

“My name is Juniper, they/them.”

“Nice to meet you, Juniper. Thanks for letting me know your pronouns.”

“I’m Fiona!”

“And I’m Irma.”

“Well, all of you are welcome here anytime. I hope you’re hungry, cause I’ve got a meal goin for ya.” As most of the guests took their seats at the table, Glimmer fell into the old routine with her sisters of helping Auntie get the table set. 

“Thank you as always, girls,” Auntie Corrine said. “Mio, you can grab the plates and utensils. Alexandria, can you fill everyone’s glasses? Glimmer, there’s some pancakes and Tatemian Toast fresh from the oven, if you wouldn’t mind.”

Within just a few minutes, the table was set, everyone was seated, and the meal had begun. 

“This is incredible, Auntie!” Mio piped up between bites of Tatemian Toast. 

“Thank you, Mio. I was no slouch before, but having your Mum to learn from will improve anyone’s meals,” Auntie laughed. “Now, Glimmer, your father seems to think you can surprise me.”

Glimmer smirked. “Well, I’ll start by saying I’m a revitalized grandma, and spend the rest of the meal convincing you that’s true.”

---

The meal had long since ended, and Auntie Corrine was sobbing at the head of her table. “You poor kids. You’ve been through so much. When I think about all the kids who stay here, the thought that some of them got caught up in the fighting too. It’s just too much.”

Rex got up to hold his mother figure. “It’s alright, Auntie. The nightmare is over now.”

“Why don’t we give Auntie some space for a bit?” Pyra encouraged the table. She turned to the woman in question, “I’ll look after the kids for a bit, so don’t worry about that.”

“Thank you, Pyra.”

“I’ll help, Mum.”

Her mum gave her a quizzical look. “Are you sure, Glimmer?”

“Hah. I’m not about to leave you alone with ten kids. I’m an old hand, we’ve got this! Besides,” she smirked, “I have an unfair advantage. They think I’m one of them.”

 

Nia

“You ready, everybody?” Nia asked as she heard the din of voices on the other side of her meeting room doors. 

“I am ready, my lady,” Dromarch replied. 

“Tora ready as he ever be!”

“Ready with notecards aplenty!” Adenine chimed in. 

KOS-MOS nodded before replying, “Affirmative. I am ready to assist in any way I am able.”

“Please to wait one moment. Poppi still running calculations!” Poppi, in her alpha form, responded. After a moment, she nodded. “Calculations complete!” the artificial Blade said. “Poppi has determined QTPi mode will be most effective at persuading audience. Please step back for mode change sequence.” After everyone stepped away, there was a flash and a whirlwind of red ribbon, and Poppi QTPi stood proudly before them. “Poppi is ready to rock!”

Nia took a deep breath, then she said, “Alright, it’s showtime!”

Nia gracefully opened the doors, then walked into the room with her companions. The meeting room at the castle was simple, but elegant. The room was lit with floating ether lights in the characteristic yellow-green Agnian glow. There were windows that looked out on the ocean that added natural lighting and a stunning view. In the center of the room was a hand-crafted Puzzletree Wood table, in a traditional Gormotti style. Chairs of the same material, each upholstered with Leftherian cloth embroidered with a Tornan-inspired pattern, were set down the long ends of the table. A single chair stood alone at the far end. At the head of the table was a gorgeous white wooden chair. Carved in its arms and on its back was a visual depiction of Gormott’s history, from its founding to the fall of the capital city of White Chair to Mor Ardain. The white chair was a symbol of Gormotti reclaiming control of their own destinies after all those years. 

Dromarch’s deep voice filled the room, which fell silent as the bass tones reverberated throughout, “Presenting Nia, Queen of Agnus.” Tora and Poppi sat to the left of Rex’s empty chair. Adenine and KOS-MOS joined Zeke and Pandoria on her right, beyond the seat reserved for Pyra and the chair Mythra was currently occupying. She made her way to her place at the head of the table. She gazed out at the powerful people in attendance as she took her rightful seat.

At the other end of the table was a screen projecting Empress Melia Antiqua. She had chosen not to hide her bedridden state, which Nia assumed was already the subject of whispered conversations. It tugged at Nia’s heartstrings to see Melia this badly battered. Were there a way for Nia to attend to her, she could have restored her strength in only a few moments. The fact that she couldn’t wounded her heart, and served to further strengthen her resolve. 

To her Kevesi counterpart’s right was Shulk. Nia wasn’t used to seeing him with both arms and such short hair. The background of his screen revealed that he was in Origin. The man looked tired, leaving Nia unsure if he had gotten any sleep the night before. 

On Melia’s left was a pale yellow Nopon woman in an enormous navy cloak embroidered with an ornate pattern. She had a pink flower in her hair. Miko was a representative for the Nopon in Keves. Nia had only spoken with her briefly when coordinating Iris distribution with Melia and attempting to figure out how to preserve Nopon in Origin. Since Iris technology didn’t mesh with Nopon biology, they’d had to get creative in ensuring everyone was stored properly in Origin. 

Seated on Poppi’s left was Emperor Niall Ardanach. He was so different from when Nia had first met him. Gone was the sixteen-year-old crushed by the weight of his position. In his place was a sturdily built, if somewhat tired-looking man. He was strong yet mobile, his face now sporting a carefully crafted rounded beard and stately mustache (although Nia knew it was just to hide the babyface he’d never grown out of). Most importantly, his eyes still held the same kindness as they always had, even if fatherhood appeared to be taking a toll on his sleep schedule. Nia had to stop herself from laughing, though. Her excellent eyesight spotted what was all but hidden from anyone else’s view: a pair of tiny, Gormotti fang marks on the base of his neck. Niall’s little princess must be teething! I do not miss Mio’s teething days. She shuddered internally at the many, many times she’d been called on to heal one of Mio’s bites.  

Opposite Niall was Queen Raqura Selosia. She was much the same as when the Garfont Mercenaries had clandestinely foiled a plot by some less than savory individuals from Mor Ardain, who had acted without Niall’s permission, had tried to trick a Gormotti Driver into destabilizing the Urayan government by starting a succession crisis. Sure, she had a few more wrinkles here and there, but overall, the woman looked just as regal as she always had, though Nia swore her scowl was a permanent feature of the woman’s face. 

On Niall’s left was Prime Councilwoman Raziel. The young woman had risen to power only in the past few years, but she’d been the primary diplomat to Agnus in the years prior. She was passionate, charismatic, and sharp as Lucky Seven. Thanks to her, Unita Tatemoth had gone from a relative outsider to a major player in Alrestian politics in only four years. 

On Raqura’s right was Chairman Niranira of the Argentum Trade Guild. He’d been elected largely thanks to his outstanding performance in handling the ‘Bana Debacle’ as it was often referred to. In the years since, Argentum was thriving. Their funding had been critical in completing Origin on time. The world owed them a great debt and that was likely exactly what Niranira had been aiming for.

Mikhail was on Raziel’s left, and, somehow, had cleaned himself up appropriately for such an event. He was more serious than Nia had ever seen him in matters not involving Jin or working on the Monoceros. Sanctuary was a relatively small nation, something of a joint protectorate of Mor Ardain and Agnus while being subject to the rules of neither. It was designed as a safe space for Blade Eaters, Flesh Eaters, and refugees from across the world, since the prejudice spread by Indol had far from disappeared overnight.

“Thank you all for coming on such short notice. The Aionios Summit is now officially underway,” Nia proclaimed. “I understand many of you are unaware of Aionios’ meaning, but please bear with me. I will be explaining the situation over the next several hours while food is served. Thank you again, Chairman Niranira, for lending us Manana to help while Pyra is away. I have it on good authority she’s an impressive chef. By the time I’m finished, I am sure you will understand why I called you all here today.”

---

After hours of speaking, Nia had finally caught up to the end of Aionios. As she paused to take a drink before explaining the current situation with Origin, Raqura spoke up. “An excellent story, Queen Nia,” Queen Raqura said, “but I find it pretty hard to believe on just your word alone.”

“Tell me, Queen of Uraya,” Melia said, “have you ever been used as a central processing unit?”

Raqura looked confused. “No, I cannot say I have, Empress Melia.”

“Then I suggest you take a look at what it does to a person without Queen Nia’s regenerative abilities,” Melia said. “If you need proof of Aionios, look no further than my current condition. The final virtual summit between sovereigns to coordinate prior to the Intersection was a mere week prior. I looked far healthier, did I not?”

“That you did,” Niall supported her statement.

“How familiar are you with High Entia physiology, Queen Raqura?”

“Not all that familiar, I’m afraid. I have very little need for such information,” Raqura said, “and my time is valuable. I can’t really indulge in non-essential academic pursuits.”

“Then allow me to educate you. As you see me now, I resemble a High Entia that has been starving for weeks. This is the result of being used as a processor for Origin, something that would not have happened without Aionios’ existence. If you require further proof still, I am certain our Master Engineers would be more than happy to supply you with logs of what occurred during the Intersection.”

Way to stick it to her, Melia!

“Or,” Zeke said, “you could stop pretending that this summit was set up to waste everyone’s time so we can move on to the very real, very pressing impending apocalypse. Your choice.”

“Besides,” Niall added, “Agnus has already proven themselves worthy of our trust in these matters. While Origin certainly required great support from the other nations, it was an Agnian and Kevesi project. Without Queen Nia and Empress Melia, none of us would have a world to call home, much less be alive.”

Queen Raqura huffed but remained silent. 

It was Shulk that filled the void. “With the tale of Aionios established, I want to draw your attention to three major points. First, the Aionioan memories of individuals between ages ten and twenty in both worlds are stored in Origin. The only reliable way for these individuals to recover their memories has been through the use of Off-Seeing melodies. Currently, only Crown Princess Mio Eschell, Noah Leater from Colony 9, and my own eldest son Crys are Off-Seers who have recovered their memories.” He paused for a breath. “Second, the individuals born in the City, those whose parentage is of both worlds, are still alive. They are stored as souls in Origin. And finally, people’s memories, the souls of the City folk, and our worlds are in mortal danger.”

Shock reverberated across the table, which Nia quickly silenced with a, “Quiet, please. There’s more information. I’ll turn the floor over to our Master Engineers, Poppi, Adenine, and KOS-MOS to explain our current predicament, and what our options are.”

---

As her companions’ explanation came to an end, Nia’s sensitive ears picked up Emperor Niall muttering to himself, “The Senate is going to have a field day with this.”

“I understand that this information is distressing,” Nia addressed the room, “but I hope you understand why I called this meeting on such short notice. How we handle the coming weeks and months will determine the fate of our worlds. As such, the nations of the world should be involved in the decisions. I would like to go around and hear each of the sovereign’s thoughts on the matter. I will start, then move counterclockwise.”

“I will be reinstating the Origin Project. Agnus will, with the nations’ agreement, be working towards successful unification of Alrest and Bionis. This was a long-term goal of the Origin Project originally, however, in light of recent events, the timetable on this project will need to be greatly accelerated. Additionally, in order to lessen the potential impact should this project fail and we need to let Origin shutdown prematurely, I will, again with the nations’ blessing, make use of the Iris Network to begin identifying Off-Seers. We will also begin working on a way to disseminate the story of Aionios to the public at large, so that any who wish to recover their memories will be able to do so.” Nia looked out at the other sovereigns, trying to gauge their initial reactions to her plan. Much to her relief, only Queen Raqura seemed unimpressed with her plan. We need a majority to restart work without starting a war, but we can use all the help we can get. 

“That concludes my initial statement of intent. King Ozychlyrus, you have the floor.”

Zeke cleared his throat and began to speak. “Thank you, Queen Nia. Alrighty, there’s no sugarcoating this one, people. This situation is terrible. I think I speak for everyone here when I say doing nothing is not an option.” Everyone in the room nodded in agreement, an encouraging sign that their brains were functioning at at least a basic level.

Zeke continued, “I am personally in favor of putting as much effort as we can into researching a safe merging of the worlds, whilst still hedging our bets in case we run out of time. While I think there will be some serious logistical issues with the merged world, I don’t think they’ll be insurmountable. The Kingdom of Tantal is prepared to offer the Queendom of Agnus any resources and personnel we can spare in pursuit of this goal. I will add that our resources are still stretched thin from the construction of Origin. Even so, I refuse to consign the hard won memories of a generation and over a hundred million souls to oblivion without even trying to save them. That concludes my statement. Queen Raqura, you have the floor.”

So far so good, Nia thought to herself, but our biggest obstacle is up next. Come on Raqura, think beyond your borders for once.

“Thank you, King Ozychlyrus. I admit, though I am of course moved by the tale of Aionios and its people, I can’t help but be concerned at how ready Agnus and Tantal are to overlook the logistical concerns of a merged world. For instance, a merged world would place our allies in Keves in a precarious position. The attack by their god twenty years ago left much of their population depleted, a devastating tragedy from which they have only begun to recover in the last few years. Any nation in Alrest easily dwarfs Keves in population, which would no doubt cause unrest and lead to security concerns.”

Is she bloody threatening Melia, while trying to sound as though she’s concerned for her well-being? Ambitious little bastard, aren’t you, Selosia. Nia felt her wife’s hand gently stroking her own. Right. Gotta be calm, cool, and collected. Her threats are nothing more than political posturing. Don’t want to snap and start a war. She sent Mythra a silent thank you with her eyes as Raqura continued.

“The position of Keves aside, I wonder where you plan to house these people from the City? Uraya has barely recovered from the devastation Praetor Amalthus wrecked on our ecosystem twenty years ago when he hijacked our Titan. We don’t have the spare resources to feed even a fraction of those mouths with the infrastructure we have in place. I’m of the opinion that we cut our losses. Perhaps your daughter, the Noah boy, and Shulk’s son can perform a See-Offing for the people of the City?”

Nia seethed with rage, and from how tightly Mythra gripped her hand, she was too. Raqura, you heartless bastard! I’m not condemning Ghondor, Matthew, Na’el and countless others besides just because you’re scared. I’m especially not letting you keep my Mio from her Noah! Or Glimmer from Nikol! Nia could see outrage on several other faces around the table, and took it as a good sign. Good to see not everyone’s head is so far up their own asses they think the sky is brown.

“The people from the City knew what awaited them,” Raqura continued. “We can readdress this issue in thirty years, when the nations of Alrest and Bionis have had time to recover their resources. This concludes my statement. Chairman Niranira, you have the floor.”

“Thank you, Queen Raqura. Niranira is troubled by these developments. While Argentum would love to offer support, Niranira already squeeze out every last gold he could find. Would be irresponsible to put guild this far in red. Board of investors would have Niranira’s head. Niranira understand priority and apocalypse not time for pinching G, but have no more to give. Unless Queen Nia offering room and board for free, will be very hard to find adequate labor.”

“Free lodging and food can be arranged for Origin Project members,” Nia answered, “at least until the crisis has passed. Agnus is thankfully a fertile land, so we have the food to spare.”

“That solve biggest issue. Niranira will speak with Queen after summit to work out particulars of job posting. That conclude Niranira’s statement. Master Engineer Shulk, floor is yours.”

Shulk took a drink before he began speaking. Probably to calm himself down from Raqura’s load of shite. “Thank you, Chairman Niranira. People of Alrest, Bionis, and Mechonis. Allow me to allay your concerns about the feasibility of safely merging our worlds. Origin is based off of a Trinity Processor core. This core was key in interfacing with the technology that Klaus used to tear our worlds apart in a time long forgotten. While our populations may not have climbed to the levels of Morytha, far from it, Origin stands as the pinnacle of humanity’s engineering skill and willpower. The expertise required to construct Origin, especially on the timescale we did, is easily a comparable feat to Morytha’s construction of the World Tree.” He paused. “All of this is to say, this is absolutely within our power, especially if we have the support of the worlds. That being said, I must admonish you, Queen Raqura. The future belongs to each and every person in this world. Denying the futures of countless people, and eradicating even their ability to choose without even trying to save them is reprehensible. While this is hardly proper, in this moment, I hardly care. You are a coward, Raqura, and your uncaring attitude towards the City and our youth will not be ignored nor forgotten. And it’s called Off-Seeing. This concludes my statement. Empress Melia, you have the floor.”

Raqura’s face was stained scarlet, though her expression suggested it was from anger rather than embarrassment. Serves you right. If ya don’t want to be treated like a selfish dickhead, don’t act like one. 

“Thank you, Master Engineer Shulk,” Melia said. “First, to address your concerns Queen Raqura, I assure you that despite our smaller numbers, you will find insecurity hard to come by in regards to my people. I believe us perfectly capable of standing on a level playing field with the nations of Alrest.” Nia could swear she saw a hint of fear in Raqura’s eyes as Melia answered her threats without so much as flinching. Attagirl, Melia. Show ‘em you won’t be bullied! 

Melia continued, “As for Keves’ stance on the matter at hand, I fully support restarting the Origin Project. All of you have heard of the struggles of Aionios, but I have seen them all, in painful, crystal clear detail. I was forced to watch as a generation of children and young adults fought and struggled in a pointless war for millennia. I saw the struggles of the City, and the countless sacrifices they made to ensure we would have a future. No matter what it takes, I will not see those lives and memories fade into oblivion. I am prepared to do whatever I must to see our worlds reunited, as it always should have been. That concludes my statement. Chief Miko, you have the floor.”

“Thank you, Empress Melia. Miko not have much to add. Nopon of Bionis will support Keves as much as we able. That conclude Miko’s statement. Headmaster Mikhail, you have floor.”

Mikhail leaned forward and clasped his hands as he began to speak. “Thank you, Chief Miko. As everyone is aware, Sanctuary is a special case. We don’t really have resources to spare, much less to give to other nations. That being said, I’m not going to leave those poor folks in Origin and the children in a lurch. I’ll get in contact with some of our alumni who’ve integrated themselves into other nations, see if any of them have something they can contribute, be it funds, knowledge, or their time. That concludes my statement. Prime Councilwoman Raziel, you have the floor.”

Incredible , Nia thought, he got through that entire statement without objectifying a woman or staring inappropriately at anyone. Maybe old dogs can learn new tricks. 

Prime Councilwoman Raziel spoke, “Thank you Headmaster Mikhail. I have been asked to share my intentions with you all. Fellow sovereigns, and other esteemed individuals present here today. This crisis represents a pivotal moment in the history of both of our worlds. Make no mistake, future historians will look back with keen eyes and minds, analyzing our every decision, accomplishment, and shortcoming in dealing with the situation at hand.” 

Raziel rose from her seat as she continued. “I implore you, each and every one of you, to ask yourselves as you consider your choices, ‘What will they say of my decisions in a year? Five? A decade? A century?’ Will they view us favorably, applauding our ability to face this uncertainty with grace and sterling moral character? Or will our descendants look on us with scorn, resentment, and loathing as we flounder about, only acting in our own self-interest instead of for the good of the worlds?” 

She took a breath and looked out across the table. Everyone but Raqura was nodding along with her words, completely enraptured.

“People of Alrest, I implore you to remember your plight twenty years ago. Your nations stood divided, and because of that, the Praetor and the Aegis Malos nearly annihilated your people. Take a page from those in Keves, the name of whose nation even translates to Unity in an ancient tongue. Had they been weakened by infighting, their god would have been able to wipe them out completely. And perhaps most clearly in the story of Aionios, we see the potency of unity. Ouroboros stood against the very concept of fear itself, and through their cooperation set the worlds back on course.”

She continued, “So, fellow rulers, the lessons from our worlds’ pasts could not be clearer. The way forward through this crisis is not through simply protecting your own! Our path to the future must be carved through cooperation, mutual trust, and the will to seize our destinies! So when asked as to my intentions, I can only answer this: Unita Tatemoth will provide any support that we can, so we can walk to the future with our heads held high! That concludes my statement. Emperor Niall, you have the floor.” Raziel took her seat. 

Damn, she’s good. I’m glad she was arguing for more support rather than against it. 

“Thank you, Prime Councilwoman Raziel. Although, I admit, I am unsure of how I am meant to follow a speech like that.” That got a laugh from the others at the table. “I believe Prime Councilwoman Raziel is correct. Now is not the time to think only of our own nations. My niece, Sena Ledair, is one of the members of Ouroboros. She, along with her allies, fought bravely to restore our worlds. I feel the least I can do to repay them is bridge the gap between our two worlds. While my initial instinct as a new father is to protect Mor Ardain for my daughter and my people, I know that those of the City were prepared to sacrifice everything for us. It feels wrong not to do the same for them in return. Mor Ardain will happily lend Agnus its aid, no matter how long it takes me to convince the Senate of the wisdom of that decision. That concludes my statement.”

Nia addressed the room once again. “Thank you all for your thoughts. The time has come to put things to a vote. First, all in favor of Agnus and Keves restarting the Origin Project, with the express goal of unifying our two worlds as soon as possible, say yea.”

Nearly the entire group of sovereigns joined her in saying yea. “And those opposed, say nay.”

Only Queen Raqura’s voice responded. 

Mythra spoke, “That is eight in favor to one opposed. The yeas have it, the motion passes.”

“This concludes the Aionios Summit,” Nia announced. “Those of you directly involved in the Origin Project, please stay for our initial meeting on how to proceed. The rest of you are welcome to enjoy our hospitality for the rest of the day.” As the various sovereigns left, Nia internally relaxed. Phew, made it through. Now, to plan our path forward. A sly smile started to form on her face. And convince Chairman Niranira and Manana that she should get her memories back and stay in Agnus.

Notes:

We’ve officially passed 50,000 words! Mio and Sena tried to warn them, they really did. I love writing Glimmer’s sections. Glimmer’s plight post Aionios is fascinating to explore. As my beta reader put it, “it’s a unique hell only possible in the xenoverse.” The Origin Project has begun anew!

Chapter 9: Iris Network

Summary:

Mio explores her new class with her Da and Mum, and is interrupted by familiar faces from Colony Gamma. Melia and Nia share the story of Aionios with their respective worlds. The Kevesi and Agnian heroes we haven’t seen yet react to the existence of Aionios. The Free Four arrive at Agnus Castle. All the while, Alvis struggles deep within Origin, though not without support from unexpected places.

Notes:

From Ethel’s section to Taion’s happen relatively simultaneously. Sep’ezia and Tredexyth are Segiri and No. 13.

Mio

Mio sat beneath the shade of the massive tree at the edge of Fonsett as she documented the fight with Haar Ophion in her diary. It was such a relief not to have need of the back page for a countdown of her own impending death. Having recorded what she wished to, she closed the diary, tucked it safely away, and just enjoyed the cool sea breeze for a few minutes. It wasn’t long before she spotted her Da and Mum at the bottom of the hill making their way towards her. Quickly, she stood up, brushed herself off, and made her way down the hill to meet them. 

“Da, Mum. How’s Auntie Corrine?”

Da smiled. “She’s doin’ better now. She just needed a bit o’ time ta come to terms with Aionios.”

“I think seeing the kids happy and playing did her a lot of good,” Mum added. She laughed, “And watching Glimmer handle them all so well might have shocked her out of shock.”

“Glad to hear it,” Mio said. “What brings you both out here?”

“I always loved the shade of this tree,” Da said. “I figured, if you were lookin’ for a place to get away for a bit and write, this is where you’d be.”

Mum said, “Glimmer told us you were looking for us to get some practice in with a new ‘class’?”

Mio’s face lit up. “Yes, absolutely! I got the notification I’d unlocked Master Driver as a class after the Haar Ophion fight. Check this out!” She selected her Da’s class, and her clothes changed in a flash to a more feminine version of his outfit. Twins of the Firelight Swords based on her Mom and Mum’s own Aegis swords appeared in her hands.

“That’s a good look for you, Mio,” Da chuckled. 

Mum literally couldn’t stop herself from ginning. “You two are absolutely adorable together! Oh, I wish Mythra and Nia could see this!”

“Those Ouroboros powers you’ve got sure are handy!” An idea crosses Da’s mind. “Have you shown your Mum your Lifesage gear?”

Mio shook her head no, and quickly rectified the problem; Mam’s Catalyst Scimitar felt natural in her grip. 

The noise Mum made could only be described as a squeal of delight. “Mio, you look just like your Mam!” She was tearing up with joy. “Thank you, Mio. I really needed something good like that after these past few days.”

“I’m glad I could make you smile, Mum.” And it was true. Even though she missed Noah so much it hurt, having her family again was a blessing Mio felt she could never be thankful for enough. The dull ache in her heart that had been with her throughout Aionios finally felt filled in. 

“Now, Mio. You said you wanted to practice being a Master Driver?” Da asked. “Well I’ve got an idea. You and your Mum can spar, if you’re both up for it. I’ll stay on the sidelines and watch your technique.”

“That sounds good,” Mum nodded. 

“Works for me!” Mio replied as her class changed back to match her Da’s. 

“Right! Let’s start with Double Spinning Edge!”

---

“Phew. I think that might be it for me for today,” Mio panted, out of breath. “Da, I don’t know how you keep it steady during Infinity Blade. That recoil is insane!”

Da just laughed. “Years of practice, kiddo. You’ll get there. If it hadn’t been for Pneuma, the sword would have flown clean out of my hands fighting Aion.”

“Thanks Da.”

“Do you both want to get some lunch?” Mum asked. “We can go find your sisters, Mio.”

Before Mio could answer, she heard a familiar voice muttering to herself. “Oh, shoot. This isn’t Vale’s Weavery. Come on, Kyrie, get a grip! How did I manage to get lost in Fonsett?” Kyrie, looking identical as she had at Colony Gamma minus her soldier’s uniform, was wandering around aimlessly nearby. 

Mio turned towards her parents. “You can go on ahead. I’m going to help Kyrie. If I leave her alone, she’ll be in Alba Cavanich before she ends up where she meant to go.”

Concern was clear on Mum’s face. “Is her sense of direction really that bad?”

“Unfortunately, yes. Alba Cavanich was my conservative guess. I have no idea what she was thinking, going off on her own like that.”

“Here,” Da said as he handed her some G. “Get yourself and your friend something nice. We’ll catch up with ya later. Just make sure you’re back on the Aletta by your bedtime.”

“Still so weird having one of those again. Thanks Da!”

Spending money in hand, Mio changed into a more casual outfit in a flash with her Iris as she quickly closed the distance between Kyrie and herself. “Kyrie! Wait up!”

Kyrie turned around in shock. She had on some purple shorts and a bright yellow tank top, enjoying the Leftherian weather to the fullest. “Oh, hello Mio! I wasn’t aware you were in town!” The pair hugged. “I love your gloves! They match the flute you always carry around.”

“Thank you. That outfit looks great on you as well,” Mio complimented her. “You looked like you were searching for something. Do you need help finding your way?”

Kyrie blushed bright red before  she hung her head in defeat. “Yes, I do. I’m hopeless with directions. I was shopping with Nakumi and Zuno, but I got separated somehow. Ugh. How am I ever going to be a Driver if I can’t even find my way back to the shops?”

I didn’t know Kyrie wanted to be a Driver. “Well, last I checked, Core Crystals don’t give you a navigation test when you bond with them.”

Kyrie laughed, “Well that’s good! I’d be utterly hopeless otherwise!”

“Maybe you’ll bond with a Blade partner that has a perfect sense of direction. Problem solved, right?”

“Thanks, Mio. You’re a good kid, you know that?”

Oh, that is going to be super annoying until I grow up again. She doesn’t mean anything by it though. “Thanks,” she said, putting on what she hoped was a believable innocent smile. “Do you remember where Nakumi and Zuno were when you left them?”

“Nakumi wanted to get some Braised Cloud Sea Shark, so we stopped at Coral Leaf Fresh Fish. I guess I got lost while we were waiting.”

Mio’s ears perked up. As a self-proclaimed seafood lover, she knew where that shop was by memory. “I can get us back there easily.”

“Oh, would you? That’d be fantastic, Mio!” Kyrie said with her usual bubbly enthusiasm. “Let’s get going!” Then the poor girl immediately started walking in the wrong direction.

“Kyrie, it’s this way,” Mio explained patiently as she shook her head. Kyrie would always be Kyrie even outside of Aionios, it seemed. 

---

“Nakumi! Zuno!” Kyrie yelled out across the square. Both of them appeared as they had in Gamma, although both were dressed far more casually. Nakumi was in a red t-shirt and basic tan shorts, and Zuno had the same outfit on, but his shirt was blue. They both stood up from their table and walked over to greet them. 

“See, I told you she’d find her way back,” Nakumi said to Zuno. “Her sense of direction may be awful, but she’s incredibly resourceful and adaptive.”

“I wasn’t worried about if she’d find her way back,” Zuno replied. “I just didn’t want to waste our day out waiting.”

“I’m sorry, both of you! I got distracted and one thing led to another,” Kyrie said. “I’m glad I found Mio.”

“Hey, how are you, Princess of Agnus? Thanks for finding Kyrie,” Zuno said between bites. 

“I’m pretty great, all things considered,” Mio replied. “Do you mind if I sit with you all? I’d like to call my friends here if you don’t mind.”

“It’s the least we can do, Mio, for helping me get back here,” Kyrie said. 

“Then I’ll call Taion and Sena. I should probably invite Juniper, Fiona, and Irma as well. They could use a pick me up.” Mio brought up her Iris and started a call. 

 

Melia

The appointed hour had arrived. Earlier that day, Melia had sent notice of an Empire-wide broadcast to her people. It was time for the world to know the story of Aionios. She took a deep breath, then signaled Riku to begin the broadcast. The red light appeared and she knew it was time. 

“Beloved Citizens of Keves. Your Empress, Melia Antiqua, speaks,” Melia spoke, her words mimicking her late father’s favored form of address. “Be not concerned with my appearance. All will be clear in time. I wish to speak with you all concerning the Intersection. There is a story that must be told, and a generation whose sacrifices we must honor.” Melia braced herself for the story of Aionios to once again be told. Knowing Queen Nia was doing the same gave her the strength to keep going. “Consider the concept of war,” she began.

 

Ethel

As the special transmission from Empress Melia ended, Ethel sat in her bedroom in Colony 9 in stunned silence. Olesandra and Bolearis were still on either side of her; both remained silent as the screen projected on Ethel’s wall winked out of existence.  Ethel was the one to break the silence. “I want to do it. I want to get my memories back.”

Bolearis laughed. “Of course you do. You’ve always been a warrior, Ethel.”

“Yeah, you’ve wanted to join the Defence Force since you were what? Two?” Olesandra asked. 

“I feel like I owe it to my other selves. To know her, her fears, her struggles. I want to know what she loved and feared.”

“Well if you’re doin’ it, I’m doin’ it too,” Bolearis affirmed. “Besides, can’t let you have all the fun.”

“That’s if you can convince your parents to let you,” Olesandra countered. “I think my dad’s going to be a hard sell.”

“Ah, we’ll win ‘em over,” Bolearis said. His face changed to a quizzical expression. “Hey, didn’t the Commander of Colony 4 sound a lot like Ethel to you guys?”

“Yeah,” Olesandra agreed. “Especially that part about a fierce rival she wants to defeat in honorable combat. You’ve seen her spar with Ashera.”

“I do value a good fight on even footing,” Ethel agreed. “Combat is really the only way I feel like I’m good at expressing myself. There’s only one way to know for sure.”

“Then let’s go talk to your mom, Ethel.”

 

Valdi

Valdi tinkered away on his latest project at his workshop. His parents and Pap-pap were watching some announcement in the other room. He wasn’t really concerned about it. How could he be? His mom had managed to snag him a Gastrates motor! If it could power something that large, what smaller things could it power for even longer? He’d spent the best part of the past week working on figuring out how it ticked. 

“Vanea,” Pap-pap said, “The boy really should be in here. He’s old enough where he should really know what’s going on in the world.”

“If you can think of a way to get him away from a Gastrates motor, be my guest.”

His Pap-pap’s deep laugh echoed far beyond his little workshop. Undeterred, Valdi returned to analyzing the cooling mechanism. 

 

Zeon

Zeon was utterly covered head to toe in soil. His ten-year-old body ached from the past few hours of work. He’d seen the early signs of black rot in his vegetable garden! Not one to sit idly by, he had isolated the infected plants and disposed of the contaminated soil. With a bit of luck, his little veggies would be just fine. As he stood up and wiped the sweat off his brow, he heard his mother’s voice call out from their back door. “Zeon, come inside! I need to talk with you about something important!”

“I’ll be right there!” he called back. “I want to finish planting the new seeds!”

“Now, Zeon,” she ordered. Not good. Her wings are fluttering; she’s not messing around. Sorry plants, you’ll have to wait a while longer.

“Coming mom!”

 

Manana

Manana could hardly believe what she had heard from Chairman Niranira. “You want Manana to stay in Agnus? Does Chairman not like Doodlenoodles? Manana can make many more dishes.”

“Take deep breath, Manana. This not about performance as chefypon. That top-notch as always,” the Chairman said as Manana breathed a huge sigh of relief.  She took tremendous pride in her cooking, after all. “Niranira had talk with Queen Nia. Has Manana seen Queen’s proclamation?”

Manana nodded before replying. “Manana see it. Such shocking news. Was on communicator with Grannypon Falala for hours! Could barely process it!”

“I see. Manana, you been identified as one of the Nopon who operate in Aionios. Made good friends with Princess Mio.”

“Can hardly believe what Chairman saying! Manana need to think over. But would love chance to meet Princess Mio!”

 

Miyabi

Miyabi was sobbing into her Driver’s arms. Iona was comforting her as best she could. “I just don’t understand how anyone could be so heartless. Why would Queen Raqura refuse to help the people from the City?”

Iona spoke, “People can do terrible, irrational things because of fear, Miyabi.”

“She was always so nice when she came to see our shows,” she said. “I thought she cared about us.” The childlike Blade tried to dry her tears to no avail. “I wish I wasn’t so weak. I want to help.”

“C’mon, none of that now,” Iona gently admonished her. “You’re not weak, Miyabi. You’re my partner, and I don’t know anyone better for supporting our troupe. Besides, I know how we can help.”

“You do?” Miyabi asked, the flow of her tears finally slowing. “How?”

“Aionios is a story that deserves to be told,” her Driver declared. “Grandpa always said theater was a beautiful vehicle for building compassion.” Now it was Iona’s turn to tear up. “He had such a way with words. I hope I can write something half as well as he could, someday.”

“Your Grandpa sounded so nice and caring,” Miyabi comforted her. “I wish I could have met him. And for what it’s worth, I think you’re very talented. Elysium in the Blue Sky is a fantastic play.”

Iona smiled at the praise, before she changed the subject quite suddenly. “Miyabi, do you want to regain your memories of Aionios?”

Miyabi nodded. “I think I have to. Mio would have been a soldier there too. She’s my best friend besides you, Iona. I don’t want her to have to shoulder that burden alone.”

“It’s settled then,” Iona declared. “We’re going to Agnus Castle. Let’s get your memories back. Plus, I want to pick Queen Nia’s brain about Aionios.”

“I’ll go get packed!”

 

Cammuravi

“Here you are, Master,” Cammuravi said as he placed the steaming fish in front of his Driver. 

The old man laughed, “I’ve told you a thousand times, Cammuravi. Call me Rayon. But thank you for the steamed bluegill. You know it’s my favorite.” Cammuravi took his seat across from his Driver, enjoying the view of the Urayan countryside as he ate his meal. “Tell me, Cammuravi. What do you make of Aionios?”

“It was a truly lamentable place,” Cammuravi responded. “Although, I do wonder how The Way would have manifested in a truly pointless war.”

Rayon replied, “A fascinating question, to be sure. How is one to fight with a warrior’s spirit in a morally bankrupt conflict? Any thoughts?”

“I think it would be possible to still follow The Way,” Cammuravi answered. Rayon seemed shocked by his response. “No matter the war, a warrior always wishes to protect what is dearest to them. Even in Aionios, I am certain bonds formed between fellow soldiers, a soldier and their colony, and a soldier and their nation.”

“A wise perspective. I think I may have little left to teach you!” Rayon laughed, which quickly changed into a hacking cough. The fit was over quickly, but was still concerning. “Don’t worry about me, Cammuravi. I’m just getting old.”

“You are my Driver. It is etched into my very being to worry for your well-being.”

“I suppose that’s fair. Do you intend to recover your memories?”

Curious as I am, I do not think Master could survive the trip to Agnus. Perhaps if they find an Off-Seer that lives nearby. “I hardly think the effort to recover them would be worth it.”

“Because you think I’ll kick the bucket before you can sort through them? Don’t you realize what a gift Origin is to Blades?”

“I am not sure I follow your meaning.”

“It’s a memory repository! Even if you return to your core, your memories will be preserved. I’m sure those genius engineers in Agnus are already trying to whip up something like that as we speak. They take much better care of Blades in Agnus than anywhere else in Alrest.” 

Cammuravi was speechless. Could that really be true? A way to carry precious memories between awakenings was a fantasy, a privilege reserved only for the Aegis. The only other path to retain the memory of those you care for meant giving up your immortality, often with debilitating results. 

“Even if you forget me for a time, my dear friend, soon enough you will have the opportunity to remember,” Rayon said. “But enough talk of death! I refuse to kick the bucket until I find a successor worthy of your core! I owe you that much at least. I may have to expand my search beyond these Urayan grunts. None have them have the right spirit. Who knows? If you recover your memories, it may be you’ve already met the perfect candidate to be your new Driver.”

 

Sep’ezia 

Sep’ezia and Tredexyth had been playing chess when Empress Melia’s announcement started. Hours later, the chessboard was abandoned on the table (not a huge loss, it had been a stalemate anyway) as their family tried to work through the news the Empress had given them. Her mother and father seemed to be civilly arguing about something in the other room. Sep’ezia was simply stunned. Tredexyth, however, was furiously packing a bag. 

“Sister, what are you doing?” Sep’ezia asked. 

In her mind, she heard Tredexyth’s response, I’m packing. I’m going to get my memories back whether our parents want me to or not. You in?

Sep’ezia was shocked. You heard dad. He was very clear that we should wait until we were older, she thought. 

You’re too soft, Sep, came Tredexyth’s reply. You need to learn to think for yourself, or the world’s gonna eat you alive. 

Dexy, we’re both ten years old. Stop pretending you know more about the world than I do! Sep’ezia paused. Would you really leave me behind?

Tredexyth shook her head. Only until I got my memories. Then I’d come right back and get you, so you could get yours too.

This mission of yours is highly risky. However, I predict your odds of success to be much higher if I accompany you. What is the mission plan, sister?

Tredexyth smiled. So here’s what I have in mind.

 

Isurd

“Ah. Finally,” Isurd said to Nimue, “home, sweet home.” Below them was New Garfont Village, with Agnus Castle and Origin dominating the horizon. The village was bustling with activity, the Vargel Tavern especially. 

“I wonder what has everyone so excited this late at night,” Nimue wondered. “I suppose we can simply ask Yew or Zuo when we check in and give our report.” Isurd and Nimue had just returned from a mission helping people impacted by an unexpected landslide in Ardanian territory. 

“Bold of you to assume they’re in any state to hear a report,” Isurd laughed. “If I know them, they’re at the tavern with the others.”

“At least Nicc and Master Jelved will still be sober. We can give our report to them.”

The pair of Blades walked in comfortable silence towards the tavern. They found Nicc and Jelved right where they expected to: sitting at a table in the Vargel Tavern while enjoying some Jenerossi Tea. The two were far more serious than either expected, however. 

“Oh, Isurd, Nimue. Welcome back,” Nicc greeted them. 

“I cannot help but notice the tension in the air tonight, Master Nicc,” Isurd said. “Has something happened while we were away?”

Jelved answered, “I take it you haven’t seen Queen Nia’s announcement, then?”

“What announcement?” Nimue inquired. “We were focused on returning home from Mor Ardain.”

“We have our report for you, when you are ready for it,” Isurd added. 

Nicc held up his hand. “Let’s hold off for now. I’m sure you both performed exceptionally, as always.”

“Yeah, you need to be brought up to speed on Aionios.”

Isurd and Nimue exchanged a confused look. Isurd said, “I have not heard of any Titan or nation by that name.”

“I am most curious, though!” Nimue said. 

“Well, let’s get you both some drinks and a meal.  Then we’ll start the explanation,” Nicc said. 

---

“What a tragedy,” Isurd said, after he and his best Blade companion had sat in silence absorbing the information they’d just received. 

“You’re wrong, Isurd,” Nimue said. “Most of what happened in Aionios was tragic, but the story has a happy ending. It’s a tale of hope no matter what. Of the value of always striving towards the future.”

“I suppose you’re right,” Isurd said. 

“I’ve never been one to beat around the bush,” Jelved said, “so I’m just going to come out and say it. Do you both want your memories back? Nicc and I are too old to have been used as soldiers, but you two might’ve been.”

“I want to,” Nimue responded immediately. “I would be far too curious about my other selves to focus on anything else otherwise.”

Isurd had been on the fence until Nimue had decided. “I believe I would like to have my memories restored as well,” he explained. “While they will no doubt be mostly unpleasant, I think the experiences my other selves had are far to valuable to pass up. I also wouldn’t want Nimue to have to shoulder that burden alone. So, I think the benefits outweigh the risks.”

Nicc spoke, “That’s decided then. I’ll put in our notice of leave in the morning.”

Jelved added, “You both should get some rest. It’s a long journey from Mor Ardain.” Isurd and Nimue gladly took their cue to retire for the evening, heads swimming with questions about their other selves.

 

Taion

Taion stood aboard the deck of the Aletta as it docked thinking about yesterday. Mio had unexpectedly bumped into Kyrie, Zuno, and Nakumi from Gamma. Mio, Sena, Alexandria, Glimmer, Juniper, Fiona, Irma, and himself had been with them when Queen Nia’s message had been announced. They had demanded their memories back despite Irma’s pleading, and, after the initial flood of emotions, they had spent the evening reminiscing and swapping various stories about Aionios. They swapped stories about Teach, much to the shock and awe of his friends from Sanctuary. While initially distant, eventually Irma had started contributing as well. She regaled them of the time Triton and her had teamed up to gaslight V into thinking he’d lost an entire Ferronis, when it had simply been hidden by Irma’s illusion. 

It had been a surprisingly pleasant evening, especially once Kyrie, Zuno, and Nakumi stopped treating them like children. Before they knew it, it had gotten late and they needed to return to the Aletta. 

Taion’s reminiscing was broken by a familiar voice calling out from the pier. “Welcome and welcome home, all of ya’!” Queen Nia greeted them. 

“Oh my gosh, Tai Tai! Juni! Irmee! Look!” Fiona gasped. “It’s Queen Nia and Mythra!” Her voice climbed higher with each word.

At least Fiona’s back to her cheery old self. I’ll have to keep an eye on her, though. She has a tendency to bury her own feelings to make the group more comfortable. There was a noticeable gap between Fiona and Irma. Normally, the two were practically glued at the hip. Given the events in Aionios and after the Haar Ophion fight, that was understandable. Out of the corner of his eye, Taion noticed Alexandria shift, as if she were mentally bracing herself for something unpleasant and unavoidable.

Before he had time to think on it further, the gangplank had been lowered and everyone aboard the Aletta was disembarking.

“It’s so strange,” Juniper commented. “Being here again and for the first time.”

Queen Nia and Mythra were reuniting with their family. It looked like a joyous reunion, until Taion heard Mythra raise her voice. “Alexandria Minerva Rhodes!” Everyone froze at once, even, amusingly, Queen Nia. “Are you out of your damn mind?! What the hell were you thinking, hijacking Siren?!”

Ah. I probably should have anticipated this turn of events.

“Tell me why I shouldn’t ground you for life, young lady!”

“Because my actions minimized casualties in the fight with Haar Ophion,” Alexandria explained, far calmer than Taion would in this situation. “Had I not acted as I did, there was a greatly increased risk of casualties, either among the combatants or the bystanders. Against a foe that dangerous, the longer the fight drags on, the more likely it is that someone makes a fatal mistake.”

Mythra did not seem convinced. “Let me get this straight; To minimize casualties, you highjacked an Artifice you have no experience controlling, engaged its most powerful weapon, and fired it when the people you were supposed to be protecting were barely out of range? How long have you been able to interface with Siren?”

“I figured out I could after we went to see Elysium in the Blue Sky last winter. After watching the scene where you and Mum get kidnapped by Torna, I reasoned that with sufficient willpower, anyone with a Pneuma-based Aegis Core, such as myself and Glimmer, would also be able to interface with Siren.”

Mythra’s cheeks were beginning to burn red. “You are absolutely grounded, young lady.”

“That’s fine,” Alexandria said. “I expected as much. I considered it an acceptable cost for ending the fight.” She paused, then added, “If it makes you feel better, Mom, I made sure there wasn’t any risk. Ophion was bound by Eunie and Taion’s Ouroboros Talent Art, so it couldn’t put up its reflective barrier. And Ouroboros shields can withstand the edges of an annihilation event, so they’re able to take the blowback from Siren’s particle cannon.”

Mythra seemed to calm down slightly. “Well, I’m proud of you for understanding the precautions you needed to take. You are still grounded indefinitely.” Then, she hugged Alexandria, Glimmer, and Mio. “I’m glad you’re all okay.”

Am I jealous of them? I am, aren’t I? I suppose seeing what you’re missing will amplify anyone’s envy.

Taion was pulled from his thoughts by Rex’s booming voice. “All o’ ya, come inside,” Rex instructed. “We can talk about what to do from ‘ere over lunch.”

---

The transport crested the lip of the Agnian Castle, and Taion was blindsided by the sight of the courtyard. It was hard to believe that this was the place where everything looked its bleakest in Aionios. Just a few titanpeds away was the very dias where M had sacrificed herself, both so Mio could live and to give N a chance to repent and grow.

“Hey, Taion,” Juniper said while grabbing his hand, “you’re shaking. Is everything alright?”

Now that it had been pointed out, Taion noticed that he was indeed trembling slightly. “Just some strong memories in this courtyard, is all. I’ll be fine.”

Juniper nodded before they responded, “Just don’t forget to lean on us for help if you need to.”

“Duly noted.”

The craft touched down gently, and their group quickly disembarked. Queen Nia spoke, mostly to the members of Ouroboros. “Excellent. Everyone arrived in one piece. Welcome to Agnus Castle. Under far better management than the last time you all were here,” she said with a wink. 

“Is that who I think it is?” Fiona gasped. “It is! Manana-Banana! It’s me, Fiona!” Before anyone could stop her, she ran over to the very confused-looking Nopon and scooped her up in a big hug. 

“Put Manana down!” Manana yelled. “Giving cute nickname not enough for hug from strangerpon!”

Fiona immediately set Manana down gently and backed up. “Oh goodness! I’m so sorry. I forgot you might not have your memories! We knew each other in Aionios, and I was so excited to see you I didn’t think.”

“Manana accept cute strangerpon’s apology. Manana just coming up to get preferences for lunch!”

So she’s a chef in Alrest as well.

“Manana would appreciate introductions to new friends as well.”

“Actually, Manana, we can save a bit of time,” Queen Nia said. “Do you remember what you and Chairman Niranira talked about yesterday?”

“Of course Manana remember, Queen Nia. Would have to be true idiotpon not to remember talk that important!” Manana had her wings on her cheeks which were puffed out in annoyance, a Manana classic that Taion was used to seeing directed at Riku or Lanz more often than not. “Is daughterpon here now to help Manana remember?”

“Yes. Hello, Manana,” Mio spoke. “You may not remember me, but I’m Mio. You, Sena, Taion, and I were traveling companions in Aionios, along with our friends Noah, Eunie, Lanz, and Riku. And it’s true, I can help you get your memories back.”

“Manana would like that very much.”

A thought occurred to Taion. “Wait a moment, Mio. I have an idea for an experiment.”

Sena cocked her head to the side, “What do you mean, Taion?”

“So far, hearing the Off-Seeing melody has been the key to restoring memories,” Taion said. “I was wondering if it needed to be a live performance.”

“I never thought of that!” Mio exclaimed. “If it just needs to be the melody itself, we could help so many people more quickly! Would you mind recording me, Mam?”

“Not at all, Mio. Lead the way.”

Several minutes of uncomfortable small talk later, the mother-daughter pair returned. Queen Nia produced a device Taion recognized as the specialty gear Nopon in Aionios used in place of Irises. She handed it to Manana. “Here, I’ll send you the recording, Manana.” She tapped her own Iris and not long after, Manana’s device sounded its arrival. “You’re the only person out here who still hasn’t recovered your memories, so we can do it now. If you’re sure you want your memories back, give it a listen.”

Mythra spoke up, “Uh, Nia. Maybe we should do this somewhere a bit more private?”

Nia blushed furiously. “Right, of course. Everyone, follow me.”

 

Manana

“Everybody make yourselves at home,” Princess Consort Pyra said as they entered what Manana could only assume to be the living room. As people made themselves comfortable, Manana took a seat on a particularly pink pillow. 

“Are you ready, Manana?” Princess Mio asked. 

“Manana ready as she ever be!” She brought up the message from Queen Nia, and pressed play. 

The little holographic Mio spoke, “Are we ready, Mam?”

“I’m recording, Mio. Go for it.”

Mio brought her flute to her lips and began to play. The melody stirred something deep inside Manana’s chest. Song so sad. Tears began to well up in her eyes, but she couldn’t explain why she was so sad. As the song came to an end, everyone was looking at her with concern in their eyes, poised to offer their support (even if the kids all had tears in their eyes themselves).

“Manana sorry, but not think memories back in noggin.”

“I wonder why a recording is insufficient?” Taion wondered aloud. 

“We can worry about that later,” Princess Mio said. “I’ll play for you, Manana.” She brought the flute to her lips and the same song from the recording began anew. The melody summoned up the same feelings of sadness as before, but much more intense. She began to cry again, but this time she sobbed. An emotion she could only describe as grief overwhelmed her. 

Images flashed through her mind. She recognized Mio, Sena, and Taion, but there were others. A human boy with a ponytail, a mechanical boy, and a pretty girl with wings on her head. There was also a blue Nopon with an Afro. Images of various dishes she’d never seen flashed in rapid succession, but the blue Nopon man continued to appear in equal measure. His presence felt comfortable and warming, like Grannypon’s Spicy Stralu, despite his dour expression. The aromas of unknown dishes filled her mind, hints of their tastes dancing across her tongue. 

The melody reached its conclusion, and Manana remembered. She remembered everyone, the dishes they made, the meals they shared together. The tears streamed unceasingly down Manana’s face as she cried out, “Riku!” over and over again. 

“Manana-Banana?” Fiona asked. “Since you know me now, is it alright if I give you a hug to comfort you?”

“Yes! Friends please to be giving all comfortings!” Manana managed to choke out. Within moments, she was surrounded by the friends she’d made in Aionios. 

“It’s going to be okay, Manana,” Mio comforted her. “We’re here for you, and Tora is actively working on reuniting our worlds.” Mio grabbed her wings and looked her dead in the eyes. “You’re going to see Riku again, I promise.”

“Many thankings, Mio,” Manana said. It was about then that Mio’s stomach rumbled, followed quickly by the others around the room in quick succession. A smile spread on Manana’s face. It was time to do what she did best. 

“Time for lunch! Friends, Manana will make celebratory meal!”

Princess Consort Pyra spoke up, “Manana, you don’t have to!” before she was cut off by Nia’s hand on her shoulder. 

“Don’t bother, Py,” Nia said. “This is what she loves to do. She’d love it a lot if you helped her out, I’m sure.”

“If Princess Consort Pyra would like to help,” Manana said, “would be honored! Cooking is famous throughout Alrest!”

“Just call me Auntie Pyra. As far as I’m concerned Manana, we’re family.”

“A meal from Manana and Mum?” Mio asked. “That sounds incredible!”

“Manana think classic dish best for time like this!” She turned to Mio, Sena, and Taion. “Friends want Battle Soup?”

“Yes please!” came their unified response. 

 

Alvis

The pain was unceasing. It threatened to overwhelm them at any moment, but they could not give in. Wait, have I had this train of thought before? I have, haven’t I? That’s not a good sign. 

“Finally!” a voice Alvis hadn’t heard in four millennia called out. “I was beginning to think we’d never find this place! Everybody! I found A!”

Sure enough, the form of Matthew Vandham came into view, manifesting from the infinite starry void as if from nothing. He looked older than he had when Alvis had last seen him. He had a beard not unlike the Hero of Alrest’s, but continued sporting the cocky grin Alvis was secretly quite fond of. His entire form was silhouetted in golden light. 

“About damn time!” came a voice Alvis was unfamiliar with. A young woman, decidedly shorter than average, appeared next to Matthew. She looked like she could, and would, start a brawl with Matthew just because she was bored. Despite her darker skin, Alvis could immediately see the family resemblance. “We’ve been wandering around Origin for days!”

“Patience is a virtue,” Ghondor, the son of the Noah and Mio who had become N and M, spoke, “but I admit I am relieved to have finally arrived.”

“I concur,” said a woman who was clearly the young woman’s mother. “And may I say, getting to work with you on this has been an absolute honor.”

An older man, likely in his early sixties, appeared. His outfit was practical, with the exception of a tattered black cape. He had a well-maintained beard that somehow still looked rough. “Besides, it’s nice to work with sane Doyle for once.”

Na’el came next. She was older, much older than when Alvis had last seen her. As she spoke, her voice was marked by the stress of her age. “I’m sorry my descendants were such a thorn in your side. I had hoped they wouldn’t succumb to the same fears I did in my youth.”

“Don’t even mention it, darling,” a woman in a yellow, fur-lined outfit said. “If Moebius showed us anything, it’s that fear is the most human thing of all. Now let’s help out this poor person.”

“Righty-o,” Matthew agreed. “You hear that A? We’ve got your back!” His hand was placed on theirs and the relief was instantaneous. Their mental burden had been partially shouldered by another. For the first time since time began to flow, Alvis could speak. 

“Thank you, Matthew.”

“Well come on, you lot,” a booming voice resounded through the space as a mountain of a man manifested. “Can’t let this old geezer have all the fun.”

“Dad?” the mother of the other martial artist asked. 

“Hey, respect your elders, kiddo,” was Matthew’s response. 

“Forgive me, I appreciate your help,” Alvis said, their voice still strained, “but besides Ghondor, Matthew, and Na’el, I’m afraid I don’t know who any of you are.”

“We’re allies,” the gruff man answered.

Notes:

This is a bit on the shorter side, but the ending point felt natural. Real life made this take way longer than I wanted it to, but it’s out now. Mio is absolutely adorable, and Pyra is loving it. This chapter was a lot more about reactions and characters than any particular actions. Writing each of the heroes was a ton of fun.

Chapter 10: Feelings Upon This Melody

Summary:

Something familiar has started appearing in Alcamoth. Personal relationships take a focus as the process of Memory Restoration begins in earnest.

Sep’ezia

Please, Dexy! Slow down a moment! I need to catch my breath. Sep’ezia pleaded in her twin’s mind as they made progress towards one of the grand escalators to the upper level of Alcamoth. She was not nearly as in-shape as her sister. Sep’ezia much preferred to spend her time reading or simply alone with her thoughts. Tredexyth, on the other hand, was much happier when she was playing a sport or climbing things she honestly shouldn’t have been. 

Fine, she replied, somehow managing to huff while communicating telepathically. There’s some cover in that black fog. We can rest there. 

The moment Sep’ezia entered the fog, she knew something was wrong. Dexy wait. Something doesn’t feel right. I don’t think we’re supposed to be here. 

Tredexyth rolled her eyes. Of course we’re not supposed to be here, Sep. We’re sneaking out. We’re pretty much not supposed to be anywhere. 

No, that’s not what I mean! Sep’ezia insisted. This fog feels dangerous.

Tredexyth’s expression soured. Wait, you’re saying we shouldn’t go forward because of a bad feeling? You, little miss logic? Her expression softened to one of concern. Is that how nervous this is making you?

Sep’ezia nodded. The feeling the fog elicits is making rational thought difficult. Requesting immediate relocation. 

Tredexyth grabbed her hand and shook her head, Honestly, Sep. You can be so mechanical sometimes, I’d swear you were a Mechon. 

I cannot fault this assessment. Sep’ezia admitted. 

The air pressure behind them dropped suddenly. Both sisters whipped around, trying to see the cause of the change. Black fog rapidly compressed nearby the column the pair had been behind mere moments before.

Tredexyth didn’t even bother with telepathy. “Sep! Run!” Sep’ezia turned as fast as she could, running with all the strength she could muster. Even with her back turned, the flash from whatever was happening was blindingly bright. Mere seconds passed before the shockwave hit. The twins were sent flying forward, scraping against the walkways like a stone dragged through mud, leaving a distinct trough in their wake, before finally coming to a stop in a bed of grass. 

Sep’ezia struggled to stand after the impact. As she attempted to put weight onto her left leg, a cry of pain escaped her lips unbidden as she tumbled forward once again. With her attention now drawn to it, it was very clear her leg was injured. Pain like a thousand shards of broken glass throbbed just beneath the surface. Dexy! Sep’ezia reached out for her sister. It hurts! It hurts so much! I can’t stand up!

Hang on. I’m coming! Don’t move it!

Trying to distract herself from the pain, Sep’ezia looked around for something, anything to focus on. From her forced perspective, she could see the results of the strange event. An entire section of the pillar was simply gone. A spherical indent, unsettling in its perfection, was all that remained of their hiding spot. Debris floated inexplicably in midair, defying everything Sep’ezia knew about the laws of their world’s physics.

I’ve got you, Dexy’s voice said in her mind. Sep’ezia felt herself lifted to a standing position with just one of Tredexyth’s arms. As she turned to look at her sister, she could see Dexy’s right arm hanging limply as Dexy used her left to swing Sep’ezia’s arm across her shoulders. Come on. We’ll take it slowly. There’s an infirmary not far from here. 

Dexy, what’s wrong with your arm?

Landed on it. I think it’s broken. Dexy gritted her teeth as they began moving towards the infirmary. Thanks, by the way. That would have been us in the center of that blast if you hadn’t convinced me to move. 

Acknowledged. 

The pair had only made it a short way before they were blinded by the headlights of a Havres. They stopped where they were, being in no state to run for cover. As the craft landed, Sep’ezia started to feel woozy and her vision started to blur. 

A man’s voice called out, “They’re kids, Lieutenant. And pretty badly hurt ones at that.”

“Send the squad to investigate the event,” a High Entian man replied. “I’m giving these two a lift to the infirmary.” The man walked forward, but Sep’ezia finally lost consciousness as he began to speak. 

---

Sep’ezia awoke in a brightly lit room, both from the ether lamps and the sunlight streaming in through the window, in a bed that wasn’t the least bit comfortable. Mercifully, her leg was no longer screaming in pain, although her head was a bit foggy. She found herself wearing a strange gown she had no memory of putting on, though she could see the clothes she had been wearing last night. They had been cut clean through and were no longer in anything resembling a wearable state. A tube extended from her left arm, connected to a bag with a clear fluid, and an odd device was clamped on her left index finger. Her left leg was suspended in an odd sling, and her right was manacled to the bed frame. One of her wrists had a wristband on it with some general physical information about her, and a barcode of some kind. Odd machines beeped in time with her heartbeat behind her. 

Gripped by a moment of panic, she scanned her surroundings. There was a space next to her with equipment similar to the kind at the head of her own bed, but no bed to be seen. She didn’t see her sister anywhere. Dexy, can you hear me?

She got a response unlike any she’d received before. She merely sensed general feelings as disconnected words rather than coherent thoughts. 

Groggy. Hurts but doesn’t? Feels weird. Worried. Sister. Hospital? Blame. Innocent. Not our fault. Sep. Stay safe.

Before she could process any of that, a Machina woman in a doctor’s coat entered the room with a Homs woman and the same High Entian man from last night.

“Good morning. My name is Doctor Linada,” the Machina woman said. “This is my attending, Panacea Reid,” she said as she gestured to the Homs woman, “and this is Lieutenant Mir’liez.”

Sep’ezia spoke, “Why am I separated from Tredexyth?”

“Is that the girl that was with you?” Dr. Linada asked. 

Sep’ezia nodded.

“She got badly hurt in her abdomen,” Dr. Linada explained, “she is currently receiving surgery in our OR.”

Sep’ezia didn’t know what that meant, and something in her snapped. Her usual cold logic fell away as she growled, “Where. Is. My. Sister?!”

Panacea answered, “Your sister is in our care. She needs to be somewhere else for a while so we can help her, but when we’re sure she’s ok, we’ll be bringing her back here.”

“What’s your name?” the doctor asked her. 

Sep’ezia was suspicious, unsure why she was currently cuffed to her bed. Rather than answer the doctor’s question, she turned to Mir’liez, obviously a member of the Imperial Guard. “Why am I currently being detained?”

“You and your sister are currently suspects in the implosion case from last night,” Mir’liez explained. “You were the only individuals near the scene of the crime.”

“My sister and I are innocent,” Sep’ezia asserted. “I will not be providing any further information while an officer of the law is in the room without a lawyer present.”

Mir’liez cracked a smile. “You beat me to the punch, kid.”

“I do not recall any punches being thrown.”

“That’s not what I…you know what, nevermind.” Mir’liez sighed. “For what it’s worth, kid, I don’t think either of you had anything to do with that. I think you were in the wrong place at the wrong time. But I’ll get out of your hair for a bit and rustle up a lawyer. You tell these doctors anything they ask you, alright? They won’t tell me a thing you don’t let them.”

The man seemed genuine enough. He nodded politely to the women in the room as he left, closing the door behind them. 

“So let’s start with your name,” Panacea began.

---

Her parents arrived only half an hour later. Dr. Linada was explaining the situation to her father while Panacea was entering the results of the tests they’d performed to test her for major damage. Her mother was at her bedside, holding her hand. By Sep’ezia’s estimation, it was as much for her mother to comfort herself as it was to comfort Sep’ezia. 

At some point, Mir’liez had returned with a smug smile on his face and unlocked Sep’ezia’s cuff. Apparently, the implosion last night was something called an ‘Annihilation Event’, which was known not to be caused by people. He had gotten serious after explaining it, saying that everyone had to keep quiet about it for now while the Palace figured out what this meant. 

Her father walked into the room and knelt by her bed. “How are you doing, Seppy?”

“I am unwell, but not suffering any pain as of present,” Sep’ezia answered. “I am currently groggy and require rest.” Her stomach growled. “Addendum: I would very much like some form of sustenance.”

Her parents laughed. “That’s our Seppy, alright,” her mother said. “I’m just glad you’re in one piece.”

The relative quiet of the room was interrupted by an extremely loud message from Tredexyth. SEPPPPP. WHERE ARE YOU?! I’M HUNGRY!

Sep’ezia grabbed her head with both hands as she reeled from the sudden invasion of her mind.

Panacea and her parents were at her side in an instant. “What’s wrong?”

“Dexy,” was all she could squeak out as another onslaught started. 

WHY IS THE SKY SO BORING?

Dexy, please. You’re shouting. I can barely think. 

OH, I’M SORRY! WHERE ARE YOU?!

“What’s happening?” Panacea asked. 

“You may not believe me,” Father said, “but our daughters can communicate telepathically. They’re identical twins.” Panacea seemed unphased. “If I were to wager a guess, I’m going to assume our other daughter just came around from her surgery.”

“You're taking the news rather well,” Mother commented. 

“My family has seen all kinds of strange abilities,” Panacea admitted, “stuff like this doesn’t phase me.”

Sep’ezia lost track of the conversation. Mainly because Tredexyth was singing very loudly in her head every single song she had ever heard. Except she didn’t remember half the words. Or the melody. Basically, her head was just a cacophony. “Please,” she begged her parents, “make her stop.” It seemed like she was in for a rough time as Dexy slowly recovered from whatever anesthesia the doctors had given her. 

 

Nimue

Nimue had always been an early riser, so it was no surprise to her that she was awake before anyone else in their group. A Mondo danced on her nightstand, and she extended her arm to let it crawl its way up to her neck. Quietly, she left their tent and made her way to the Saffronia tree that overlooked New Garfont. She had always loved these trees. Apparently, this one had been planted when the village had been established by Prince Consort Rex Vandham himself.

She watched as the Mondo fluttered off to frolic in the branches. In the distance, it appeared Nim was having a particularly intense discussion with a Phoenex couple. Satisfied with the serenity of the moment, Nimue allowed her mind to wander to Aionios. 

Who was I, I wonder? Did that Nimue still yearn for adventure? Did she want to see the world more than anything? A Saffronia petal landed on her nose, prompting an immediate sneeze. I wonder if she loved these trees as much as I do? Who were her friends? Did she meet Isurd? And if she did, was it over many lifetimes, like the Ouroboros pair Queen Nia spoke of? Or was it only a single meeting, a small chance encounter in a sea of eternity?

The idea of recovering memories of another life still sounded too good to be true. For Blades, especially curious ones like herself, it was akin to a fairy tale. I hope Jelved is ready for an Alrest-trotting adventure. I’m sure there will be plenty of people I want to reconnect with. 

Then there was the possibility of a truly merged world. I can’t even begin to imagine how wonderful it will be to explore the remains of the Bionis. She’d heard that in their world, ether sometimes formed deposits with crystalline structures. They were supposed to be a sight to behold. She stared at her own forearms. I wonder if ice-element ether crystals would look like that.

“Contemplating what lies ahead?” Nimue jumped at Isurd’s voice behind her; she hadn’t noticed his approach. “It kept me up for hours last night, wondering who I was.”

“It’s not nice to sneak up on people like that, Isurd.”

He laughed. “I would hardly call my approach stealthy. I had to cross your field of view, climb a ladder, then cross the shallow water.” He took a seat next to her, as her Mondo fluttered down from the branches and started playing with his hair. 

Nimue held up her arms in surrender before she spoke once more. “You need to get more sleep, Isurd.” She playfully booped his nose. “You’ll get bags under those pretty eyes of yours.” His cheeks turned redder than a Ruby Mangosteen in full bloom. She liked Isurd a lot, but even her patience was wearing thin waiting for him to deliberate a relationship with her. She’d asked him before the Intersection and he still hadn’t given her a proper answer! That’s just Isurd though. He’ll take his time with any decision where he feels he has the luxury to deliberate.

“Nimue, I should apologize,” Isurd said suddenly. 

Nimue instantly froze up. This is it. This is when he says he’d rather stay friends. Brace yourself, Nimue, this is going to be a rough ride. 

“I’m going to have to beg your patience just a bit longer,” he said, and Nimue’s anxiety turned to annoyance in an instant. “While I have arrived at an answer, it feels unfair to you to pursue it when we’re about to recall other lives. You may not want the same things as you do now.”

“Isurd!” she said, perhaps a bit louder than she needed to, admittedly, “While I appreciate you trying to consider my feelings, I can make my own choices! Your silence is killing me! No matter what we learn about Aionios, my feelings for you now are genuine! If Aionios changes how I feel, we will deal with it then. So tell me now, Isurd, will you go out with me or not?”

Isurd placed her hands in his. Nimue’s heart was beating at a record pace.  Please say yes. 

“Nimue,” Isurd said, “you are the most incredible person I have ever met. I would be honored to go out with you.”

He said yes! This is real, it’s really happening! Nimue, say something! “May I kiss you?”

“I’d like that,” Isurd replied. 

As the newly minted couple leaned in for their first kiss beneath the Saffronia at sunrise, a very unwelcome voice sounded out from behind Nimue. “Good mornin-oh this is a bad time for me to be here,” came Jelved’s voice. Her Driver spent the next several minutes fleeing her pursuing Mondo, while Isurd laughed at her antics.

 

Melia

Melia was deeply worried. As she waited anxiously for Nia to answer her call, she considered the disturbing report she had received from Tyrea in the middle of the night. I did not consider this would be possible while the worlds were separated. The sound of a successful connection to Alrest redirected her attention. On the screen before her was Queen Nia, although she could see a flurry of activity from Nia’s family in the background.

“Nia, I apologize for the short notice,” Melia greeted her old friend, “I hope I caught you at a good time.”

“Must be pretty bloody important for you to jus’ call out of the blue,” Nia said. Melia watched as Glimmer fixed something on Mio’s outfit, which was a replica of her Agnian Off-Seeing uniform, as Pyra fussed with her hair. “So spill it. What’s happened?”

It is genuinely refreshing not to hear Nia using that false elocution anymore, Melia mused. I much prefer her natural voice, it fits her much better. Melia redirected her thoughts back to the matter at hand before they could wander much deeper down the enticing, married, Gormotti Flesh Eater-shaped bunnit hole in front of her. “I received a disturbing report about an unexpected implosion in Alcamoth last night.” Nia’s eyes darted towards Mio, Sena, and Taion, who were engaged in some kind of conversation to boost Mio’s mood from the looks of things. Melia continued, “It was not like the events with Fogstorm Belgazas or Haar Ophion. No Fogbeasts appeared, so you needn’t worry that Mio is keeping secrets from you.”

Nia blushed. “It’s really not fair how well you can read people, Melia.”

I simply enjoy looking at your face. The thought came unprompted and Melia had to stop herself from flushing scarlet to match Nia’s own complexion. What is happening to me? My head hasn’t been this out of sorts since…, Melia wondered before the realization hit her like a Ferronis, Shulk and Fiora’s wedding. Oh no. This is the most inconvenient time for me to go and develop a crush on another married person! Putting the thoughts of Nia, Shulk, and Fiora aside as best she could, she answered Nia, “The implosion occurred slightly after midnight last night. Based on eyewitness accounts of the aftermath, ether signatures detected around that time last night, and the damage caused, I have come to a disturbing conclusion.” Melia paused for a breath. “Alcamoth experienced a small Annihilation Event last night.”

“Are you bloody serious?!” Nia exclaimed. “Of course you are, you wouldn’t joke about this. How’s that possible?”

“At the moment, I am unsure. We need to move up our timetables on recovering memories.”

“Shite. Raqura’s gonna make this into a whole bloody thing,” Nia cursed. “Was anybody hurt?”

Melia nodded. “Two Machina children were injured, but are recovering. One of them was the last Commander of Colony 0, Segiri.”

There was a gasp from Mio in the background, and Nia turned around instinctually. “Mio! Were you eavesdropping?”

Mio put her hands on her hips defensively, “I wasn’t trying to Mam! But I heard Melia say Segiri’s name!”

“Sassy little so and so,” Nia muttered under her breath. Melia had to stifle a laugh despite the gravity of the subject at hand. “Keep me posted, yeah? I’ll accelerate things on our side, but I expect our support may dwindle with an immediate threat on the horizon like this.”

“I will do what I can as well. And I promise to have Fiora get Shulk out of Origin every so often so the man remembers to sleep.”

“Good on ya’, I’ll have Poppi do the same for Tora. Good luck, Melia.”

The call ended and Melia pulled up her Iris to call Noah, Emmy Leater, Crys, Shulk, and Fiora.

 

Noah

Noah stood next to Crys and Riku in front of the newly dubbed ‘Restoration Chambers’. With the news of the impending potential apocalypse and the existence of Aionios spread far and wide, Melia had put out a call for anyone known to be an Off-Seer in Aionios to make a sacrifice for the Empire and have their memories restored as soon as possible. The hope was to have as many people capable of restoring memories available as they could to meet the onslaught of demand she predicted. Through the window, he could see the crowd of children and teenagers lined up outside the palace in preparation for memory restoration to be made publicly available; the line stretched clear to the transporter leading to the Bionis’ Shoulder, and, Noah guessed, well beyond.

“Is Noah nervous?” Riku asked. 

“Just a bit, but I’ll manage. I can always Interlink if things get dicey,” he replied. 

“I’m glad Melia arranged for therapists to be on call,” Crys added. “I admit I am nervous about potentially meeting another Moebius. I never saw any of them besides D, J, N, M, and Z without their masks. I wouldn’t even recognize them until after their memories came back.”

“That just mean they also not likely to know Crys as C,” Riku pointed out. “Friend probably have nothing to worry about.” 

The Nopon engineer had seemed almost entirely unaffected by recovering his memories the previous evening, at least to those unfamiliar with him. Noah knew better. Those millennia of solitude are weighing on him, I know they are. But he won’t open up about it at all. Why, even now, does Riku feel he has to keep his feelings secret? Or is he just so used to lying he doesn’t know how not to anymore?

Noah’s Iris pinged. He was receiving a call from Melia, and it looked like Crys was as well. 

“Noah, Crys. Are you both ready?” the Empress asked, to which both nodded. “I’m sending the first pair of Off-Seers in to see you both now.” She took a breath. “Noah, I believe you are familiar with the young man, Url? He’s a Homs, and if memory serves, he took up your position as Colony 9’s Off-Seer once you became Ouroboros.”

“Yes, I remember him. It will be good to see him again.”

“Crys, you have a High Entian young woman,” Melia continued. “I believe her name is En’ea.”

Crys breathed a sigh of relief. “Consul E was a man, so I don’t have to worry about that this time at least.”

“Url is fifteen and En’ea is nineteen,” Melia explained, “so neither of their parents will be with them in the room. Do you both remember your safety protocols?”

“Yes ma’am,” they said in unison.

“Then good luck, both of you.” Melia ended the call and left both boys alone with just each other for the first time since Crys had recovered his memories. 

“Noah, I should apologize,” Crys began.

Noah shook his head and held up his hand. “Don’t even start. Don’t forget, I’m N too. I understand, Crys. All I want is for us to work towards being friends again.”

Crys smiled, and Noah saw the worry ever so slightly leave his eyes. “I would like that. I’d like that a lot.”

The sound of approaching footsteps turned their attention to the entryway. Stepping through were a pair of young adults. Noah was happy to see Url, but he gasped as he saw the En’ea’s face. Despite her being older than she had been in  Aionios, her crimson eyes, scarlet red hair, and brilliant crimson headwings gave her away. That’s Fline! From Colony 0! She was an Off-Seer, wasn’t she? I remember helping Sena gather the materials to fix her flute. 

Url nervously waved as he entered the room. En’ea looked more bored than anything. 

“Um, hello,” Url muttered, “I’m looking for someone named Noah.”

“That would be me,” Noah said, ignoring the boy’s look of shock.

“So you must be Crys then, yeah?” En’ea surmised. Crys nodded. “Let’s get this going then, yeah? If I was one of those Off-Seers, people out there need our help.”

That sounded super rehearsed. How many times did she practice that? “Url, you can follow me, if you’re ready.”

He laughed nervously. “Ready might be a bit of a strong word, but I know this is important. If I can help, I want to.”

“That’s a good attitude to have,” Noah said. “Follow me.”

 

En’ea

Crys guided her into the Restoration Chamber. It was decorated simply, with a pair of comfortable-looking chairs facing one another. The light was produced from an ether lamp in the ceiling and a small window far above the floor. There were no harsh edges En’ea could see in the room, as well as a lot of open space. The walls were lined with soundproofing material. Designed to minimize opportunities for self-harm and accidental restorations. Makes sense. She took a seat in the chair on the left as she tried to soothe her nerves by fussing with her headwings.

Crys closed the door behind them and took his seat opposite her. “Are you ready? I can start at any time, just say the word.”

“I’m ready,” she answered with confidence she didn’t really have. Doesn’t really matter if I’m ready or not. If people need my help, I need to step up.

Crys nodded, and En’ea was grateful he only asked her once. It showed he believed she had a grasp on the situation, an acknowledgment of the maturity she had worked so hard to cultivate these past few years. “I won’t drag this out then,” Crys said as he stood up. “I highly recommend you stay seated. The process itself is quite intense. Once it is finished, I’ll stay silent until you speak with me. It’s a lot of information to process.”

En’ea resisted the urge to scoff and roll her eyes. “Thanks for the warning.” Crys lifted the flute to his lips and began to play. Instantly, her headwings moved to shield her face as tears began to form in her eyes. Never before had a song elicited such an immediate emotional response from her, nor one this intense. Her tears were tears of grief, of mourning, but for someone she no longer knew. This pain, this emotional agony, was entirely overwhelming. It was as if she was watching her mother and father die in front of her all over again, but magnified. Somehow, it felt as if she was witnessing that death a thousandfold. Heavy sobs wracked her body, and she felt herself fall to the floor. 

As the melody continued, a memory surfaced. She was in a machine of some kind, looking at the world through a viewing screen. The machine she was in was damaged from battle with a group of six young adults. None of that mattered, though. Before her was a Machina girl, no older than thirteen, cradling the body of Homs boy, himself no older than fourteen. The boy was dying, that much was clear. As far as En’ea could tell, he had no injuries, but he was dying nonetheless. A man, clad in red, gold, and purple, stood back, seemingly unaffected by the scene of tragedy before him. En’ea hated him with all her heart.

The melody reached its conclusion and a pair of flaming axes appeared beside her.

 

???

Number Nine struggled to regain her bearings. But that wasn’t her name anymore, right? Fline. That’s right. The Ouroboros girl, Sena, named me Fline. Her name was En’ea though, wasn’t it? Where is Segiri? She’ll know what’s happening. She laughed at herself internally. Segiri isn’t going to be very helpful if you don’t know who you are. She opened her eyes and attempted to stand. Her mind fought itself, as she was unsteady on her feet. While for some part of her this was normal, for another, her body felt alien. Her center of gravity had shifted completely.

Three names swirled in her head on repeat. Number Nine. Fline. En’ea. I am all of these names and none of them. What is my name? Number Nine clearly wasn’t right. That was the name that utter bastard of a Consul had forced upon her. So En’ea or Fline? En’ea was the name given to her by her parents. They had long departed this world. She remembered being a mere four years old and watching her father transform into a Telethia. Her mother had told her to run, and run she had. She had heard her mother’s screams as other Telethia swarmed her. It was a name she had gone by for nineteen years, given to her by people that loved her. Those same people that Zanza had cruelly ripped away from her.

Then there was Fline. It was a name she’d had for little more than a season. Of the thousands of years of Aionios, she had consistently been No. 9 at Colony 0. Only in the last few months had Ouroboros broken her and her friends out of that wretched place. The people of Colony 0 were her family too. Not by blood, certainly, but by circumstance, shared experience, and choice. Sena had made sure we each had names, that we were recognized not as chess pieces or weapons, but as people. Fline was the first time in my life I was living, not just trying to survive day to day. It feels wrong to reject that. Who should I be? What is my name?

 

Fline

I’m sorry Mom, Dad. The name you gave me is wonderful, but those who it is truly special to are gone. I have my new family to consider too. Finally wiping her tears, Fline picked up the Doom Axes and willed them away, hoping to never need their power again. A box of tissues she hadn’t noticed when she’d walked in rested on the table next to her chair. She quickly took a few to clean her face up. When she was finished, she turned to Crys, who was politely staring out the window trying to give her space. “Thank you, Crys. Let’s go see Noah and Url. I’m ready to start helping people.”

Noah

“How are you feeling, En’ea?” Noah asked the High Entia girl, still unused to the fact he had to look upwards to see her face. In Aionios, she’d been seven years his junior, but now she was nearly a decade older than him.

“Please, call me Fline. That name, even for the short time I had it, mattered to me.” She laughed. “Certainly a better name than ‘Number Nine’. Consul F was an arsehole, dehumanizing us like that.”

“Noted,” Noah replied.

“Noah,” Crys said, “we ran into a problem. We don’t actually have people’s Off-Seeing flutes made. Both of us played before the Intersection, so I didn’t even consider the others wouldn’t.”

Url piped up, “And I’d want a custom flute, myself. It just…wouldn’t feel right Off-Seeing on a generic one, you know?”

“I agree completely,” Fline added. “Do any of you know where Giddygiddy lives? I know he was responsible for making the Kevesi flutes in Aionios.”

Crys smiled, “I actually do know him. He made my flute here on Bionis as well. And we’re in luck. He lives close by, in Fort Gran Dell. I can transfer the coordinates to your Irises, Fline and Url.”

Noah spoke up, “I’ll contact Empress Melia to set aside funds for the cost of commissioning the flutes.”

“Shouldn’t we give Giddygiddy his memories back?” Url asked. “It would probably be a lot easier to make the flutes if he had the memory of making them already.”

“Not a bad point,” Noah acknowledged. “Crys, would you mind getting in touch with him, since he already knows you?”

“Not at all, Noah.” Crys replied.

Riku had arrived with a blue Nopon and a seventeen-year-old Homs with masculine features and blonde hair. “See-Mee-Mee and Radek here for memory restoration,” Riku announced. “These last of known Off-Seers. Riku off to help with Origin.”

Noah sent his message off to Melia and turned to greet the familiar Nopon. “Hello See-Mee-Mee. My name is Noah, and I’ll be the one helping you with the memory restoration today. Follow me into the Restoration Chamber.”

Taion

Taion stood at the threshold of Origin alone. Mio, her sisters, and Sena were busy preparing to begin memory restoration, and Juniper, Fiona, and Irma were making arrangements to head down to New Garfont. The massive ark felt entirely different than when Taion had last sought to enter it. Instead of being hostile, it merely thrummed with energy. It was the same feeling of power, certainly, but the source of that power no longer wanted him dead. He took a deep breath, then entered Origin with the hope that he could put his millenia of survey branch training in Aionios to good use.

---

At the end of the instructions given to him by Queen Nia, Taion found what could only accurately be described as a cross between a command center and a war room. He didn’t recognize a single person in the room with the exception of the Master Engineer Tora and his Artificial Blade, Poppi, whose likenesses he’d seen in textbooks describing the events of the Second Aegis War. On one of the massive displays was a projection showing the participants of Bionis. It was there that Taion found more familiar faces; namely Shulk and Riku, and a boy who looked like the founder of House Ortiz from the City, albeit several years younger.

“Masterpon,” Poppi said, “friend Taion of Ouroboros is here.” All eyes in the room were suddenly on him.

Play it cool, Taion. “Yes, hello. As Ms. Poppi was kind enough to point out, I am Taion, one of the members of Ouroboros. I’m here to offer my expertise in any way I can.” He paused for a moment before he added, “I will say I’ve had little time to prepare for this, so I find myself at a loss for most of your names.”

A woman, clearly a Blade, was the first to speak up. Her entire body appeared to be made of books. “It’s a pleasure to meet a fellow academic! My name is Adenine!” She shook his hand with considerable enthusiasm as she continued. “I am utterly fascinated by the Ouroboros phenomenon. When things settle down, I would love it if you could help me with some experiments.”

“I’ll think about it,” Taion answered quickly. The last time someone used him as a test subject was when Salazar from Colony Iota had jumped them in Dannagh Desert. Adenine seemed far more responsible, at least. 

“Hello, Taion. My designation is KOS-MOS. I am here at the behest of Master Zeke to aid in the successful completion of the Origin Project. Having heard of your tactical exploits, I believe you have a chance of improving the project’s likelihood of timely success in a statistically significant manner.”

Her speech pattern reminds me of when we first found Segiri. “Nice to meet you, KOS-MOS. I appreciate your vote of confidence.”

“Correction: confidence is the incorrect term to be applied in this situation. I have merely extrapolated your potential to positively impact the project from available data. Personal belief was not considered as a part of this calculation.”

“Noted.”

“Friend Taion, Tora is Master Engineer.”

“It’s an honor to meet you, Tora. I’ve read about your exploits during the Second Aegis War and closely followed developments on Origin before the Intersection.”

“Tora also sorry Origin was used to cause friend so many problems,” the Nopon engineer added. “Can assure you was not part of initial blueprint!”

“Thank you, Tora.”

“Poppi is Poppi!” the childlike Artificial Blade held out her hand, which Taion shook. “Happy to finally meet friend in person.”

Taion was not fooled by Poppi’s childlike appearance. He knew her innocent face belied her vast intellect. If I remember correctly from my reading, this is her ‘alpha’ form. She still possess her adult form’s intelligence. Queen Nia also mentioned that Poppi was responsible for helping her monitor Aionios. This woman probably knows more about Aionios than anyone due to her perfect memory.

Taion turned his attention to the screen. “Riku, I’m glad to see you are alright. Have you recovered your memories?”

“Yes. Friend Noah help Riku last night,” the surly Nopon Engineer replied without looking up from his work. “Please to be giving friends Mio and Sena Riku’s regards.” Riku turned to face the screen before asking, “Have friends had any luck in finding Manana?” Riku’s brow was furrowed, the worry for Manana clear as day on his face. 

Taion was more than happy to allay his worry. “Yes, she’s in Agnus Castle. She got her memories back yesterday afternoon.” Riku visibly relaxed at the words. Taion continued, “She misses you terribly.” Taion watched as Riku, the inscrutable Nopon engineer he remembered from Aionios, blushed so deeply it showed as crimson even through his fur. “We need to reunite the worlds as soon as possible, for everyone’s sakes.”

“Agreed,” Shulk spoke up.

This was the first time Taion had seen him outside of Aionios. His hair was much shorter, and, most notably, his arms were both intact. He seems to recognize me from Aionios. Shulk’s expression was a familiar look of determination. It’s the same look we all shared when facing down Z.  

“We’re not going to stop until you all can enjoy the peace you fought so hard for,” Shulk declared. 

The boy that so reminded Taion of the founder of House Ortiz, right down to the welding goggles on his head, spoke. “My name is Nikol. I don’t think we’ve met before in Aionios.” He put his hand behind his head as a sheepish grin spread across his face. “You might know me better as the Founder of House Ortiz in the City.”

I knew it!

“Then it appears I owe you quite the thank you,” Taion said. “Your descendants were quite helpful in the fight against Moebius, no matter their age. Shiner was an upstanding individual, even as a child.”

A look of pride came over both Shulk and Nikol’s faces, and it was then that Taion finally spotted the resemblance. They’re father and son! How did I never see it before?

Riku piped up, “Friend owe Nikol for more than that. Without Nikol’s help, would never have become Ouroboros in first place. Without Nikol and Riku’s work on Ouroboros Stone, modern concept of Ouroboros would have been impossible.” Nikol blushed bright red. 

“Thank you a thousandfold then, Nikol,” Taion said. “Your work quite literally changed the course of history.”

“Well, the power isn’t worth much without someone capable to use it,” Nikol said quickly, as if sitting in the praise too long made him deeply uncomfortable. “You and the rest of Ouroboros deserve just as much credit!”

“Yes, yes, that all good! Three cheers for friends, but we have work to be done!” Tora exclaimed. 

Taion nodded as he turned to Poppi. “Ms. Poppi, please catch me up. What have you been working on so far?”

 

Eunie

“Eunie, what do you mean ‘you don’t need to explain Aionios to me’?” her mum asked. Behind her was the backdrop of her home’s living room in Colony 9. The familiar wall of pink and lace provided quite the comedic backdrop for the seriousness of the topic at hand. 

“You know those Ouroboros that Empress Melia mentioned?” she replied. Her mum and dad nodded. “I’m one of ‘em. So I don’t really need to be caught up. Got my memories back and everything. Thought I’d save you both the trouble.”

Her father shook his head. “Eun, you don’t need to convince us you were a hero. I won’t have you avoiding this topic, it’s too important.”

He doesn’t believe me? That snuffin’ stings. “Spark’s sake, old man!” she shouted, losing her temper. “I’ll snuffin’ prove it to you then!” Eunie summoned her Caduceus Gunrod and brought the Ouroboros Ring into her Iris’ view. The looks on her parents’ faces were priceless. Both had been about to tell her off for her language (a look she was all too familiar with). Instead, she got to watch her parents cycle through a dozen different emotions in a couple of seconds as the words died in their throats. 

Her mother quietly spoke, “So you…”

Eunie nodded. “You better believe it. Noah, Lanz, Mio, Sena, Taion, and I kicked Origin back into gear. So you’re welcome.” She dismissed her Blade. Probably best not to mention the Fogbeast from the other day.

Her dad’s face was beaming with pride. “Our little Eunie grew up and saved the damn world.”

“Nevarth!” her mum gasped at his sudden use of foul language, her wings fluttering slightly.

“Really, Ela’nil? You’re concerned about language at this point?” he scoffed. “She’s practically twenty, a war veteran, and a full-blown hero.” Her mum held her hands up in surrender. Dad turned back to Eunie. “Way to go, Eun. I didn’t think it was possible to be this proud of someone, but you’ve always had a way of surprising me.”

Eunie felt her cheeks flush at the praise. “Thanks Dad. So I’m gonna need to stay in Alcamoth for a bit. Empress Melia needs our help.”

Her mum fussed with her wings for a moment. “Please stay safe, Eunie.”

She laughed. “Course I will. I’ve been getting back into shape, and I can always Interlink if things get really dire.”

“About that,” her dad interrupted, “I’m not sure how I feel about you Interlinking. Which of those people you mentioned do you do it with?”

Nope, not having this conversation today. “Sorry, gotta go! I think Lanz needs me!”

“Eunie, this conversation isn’t-”

Eunie ended the call.

---

As she entered the villa’s kitchen, she saw Joran at the table, carving something while chatting with Lanz.

“How’d it go?” Lanz asked. 

“Took ‘em a bit to believe me, but I got through to ‘em in the end,” Eunie replied. “Then my dad tried to get all weird about Interlinking, so I dipped.” She turned her attention to her other friend. “Whatcha carving, Joran?”

“I wanted to make your best allies,” he answered. “This one’ll be Ethel.”

As Eunie took a closer look, she could see the beginnings of Ethel’s signature silver coat and equally impressive silver hair. On the table were figures of Noah, Lanz, Mio (notably with long hair), Sena, Taion, and herself. “Spark, Joran, did you do all these today?”

“Nah,” he grinned sheepishly. “I’ve been working on them since I got my memories back. I haven’t had much else to do.”

“I don’t think you have to do much else, mate,” Lanz said. “These are snuffin’ incredible!”

Seeing her older self carved into a figure sent a strange pang of jealousy through Eunie. She quickly shifted her focus to the missing member of their quartet of friends. “Where’s Noah?”

“Doing Memory Restoration at the palace,” Lanz replied. “Mate’s got himself a proper job.”

Eunie just shook her head. “Leave it to Noah to get wrapped up in something bigger than himself.”

“Don’t I know it,” Lanz agreed. 

“I’m gonna head out for a light jog after I eat,” Eunie said as she attempted to reach for the bread, only to find it was beyond her grasp. Stupid little kid body, bloody pain in the arse. She pulled a chair over and climbed up, retrieving her sliced prize. “Being this out of shape doesn’t feel right after Aionios. Either of you wanna join me?”

Joran shook his head. “I want to keep working on Ethel.”

To Eunie’s surprise, Lanz did too. “I kinda wanna hang with Joran for a bit. Got a lot of lost time to make up for.”

Lanz, turning down exercise? Is he sick? Then she noticed the very subtle blush on his cheeks, and the way he kept stealing glances at Joran. Oooooooh. I’m gonna let that Gogol sleep, I think. 

She shrugged, trying to play it cool for Lanz’s sake. “Suit yourselves. I’ll hit up Ashera and see if she wants to join.”

Lanz laughed. “That’s assuming her dad lets her out of the house. Dunban’s scary when he’s angry, man.”

“I think I’ll be fine,” Eunie said. “He’s not mad at me.”

---

The breeze felt so good on Eunie’s face as she walked from the villa to the transporter. The walkway was flanked by a meticulously crafted flower garden. There were even benches where you could sit and admire the beauty. She took a seat on one, and pulled up her Iris to call Ashera. 

“Eunie! Excellent timing, I just wanted to talk to you,” Ashera said.

“Should I be excited or concerned, love?” Eunie teased.

“A little of both wouldn’t go amiss,” she replied cryptically.

I swear, she gets off on being a pain in my arse. “Go on then, love.”

“I’m officially free to wander the capital today without having to beat daddy dearest in a duel.”

“Wait,” Eunie replied, “weren’t you supposed to be grounded for like, a couple of weeks?”

“Would you believe I got out early for good behavior?” Ashera accentuated this with an overly dramatic fluttering of her eyelashes. 

“About as likely as I am to believe Armus have sprouted wings,” Eunie retorted. 

“Guilty as charged,” Ashera admitted. “I snuck out.”

Of course she did. “Any more issues with your neck?”

“Nope! Happy to report I’ve been right as rain!”

That’s a huge relief. “Wanna meet by the shop on Melfica Road?”

“Sounds wonderful! Don’t keep me waiting too long, Eunie!” Ashera exclaimed as she disconnected the call. 

It’ll be good to spend some time with Ashe, Eunie thought as she stood up and began walking towards the transporter. But if her dad finds out about her little escapade, she’s on her own. No way am I scrapping with sparkin’ Dunban with this kid’s body.

Notes:

Huge thank you to my beta reader for help writing the medical scenes! Also, hi. I’m not dead. Didn’t expect this chapter to take this long, but I was moving and it kinda got away from me. Hope it was worth the wait!

Chapter 11: Feelings Risen to the Sky

Summary:

Mio begins Memory Restoration for Alrest, and several Heroes have their memories restored. Juniper, Fiona, and Irma visit Garfont to try and connect the missing pieces of their pasts. Noah and co. race against the clock in Alcamoth.

Mio

Mio sat in the green room just below Agnus Castle’s theater with her sisters, parents, and Sena. As she looked in the mirror, she nervously adjusted her outfit, fussed with her hair, and triple-checked her stage makeup. She could feel her nerves begin to get the better of her. Just beyond the doors to the theater were thousands of people; most of them were here to have their memories of Aionios restored, the others were here to support them. And this is only the first wave. 

“Hey, you’ve got this,” Glimmer said as she came up behind her, her hand resting on Mio’s right shoulder. “You know the song backwards and forwards.”

“I’m just not used to Off-Seeing alone,” Mio admitted. “I admit playing by myself in front of this many people has me a bit nervous.”

Sena took her hand and looked her in the eyes. “Mimi, I know you’re gonna do great! We’ve got your back!”

“But what if there's a former Moebius out there?” Mio said. “Or people have grudges with the people they came with?”

“Interpersonal conflicts are the individual’s responsibility to work out, not yours,” Alexandria reassured her. “Mom has the entire theater under watch; no one is going to be able to touch you.”

“Alex is right, kiddo,” her Da said. “We’ve done everything we can to prepare. Just take a deep breath, hype yourself up, and go do what you do best.”

Mio nodded and tried to pump herself up, but negativity kept pulling at her mind.

“You can do it, Mio,” Mum spoke, clearly not buying Mio’s attempt to appear collected.

“Besides,” Mam added, “this might be the only time you’ve got to do it alone. Odds are at least one Agnian Off-Seer is in the audience.”

They’re all right. I can do this. The people out there are counting on me. Mio took a deep breath. “Alright, I’m ready.”

 

 Miyabi

Miyabi clutched Iona’s arm as the house lights dimmed. “I’m so nervous!” she whispered.

“I know, but I’ll be right here the whole time, okay?” Iona reassured her. Miyabi nodded. 

The last whispers fell silent as the lights dimmed completely. A single spotlight shown on center stage. The tension throughout the house was palpable. The warning everyone received outside about the intensity of the process clearly played on repeat in everyone’s minds. The fact that Nia and Mythra had been there to address them all personally was nearly as impactful as their warning. The sound of footsteps broke the silence as a familiar face stepped into the spotlight. It’s Mio! I didn’t know Mio was the one doing this! The excitement at her friend doing something so incredible temporarily muted Miyabi’s nerves. Mio brought the flute Miyabi had given her only last year to her lips and began to play.

Miyabi clutched her heart as the mournful melody filled the room. A grief, unlike anything she’d ever felt threatened to overwhelm her. In the corners of her vision, she could tell she was not the only one experiencing these emotions. Many had their heads in their hands, some had fallen to their knees, and others remained motionless save for the tears streaming down their faces, reflecting the stage lights as they fell. Flashes of battlefields, war-torn plains, and desolate landscapes filled her mind. A melody was the only constant, yet it did not match Mio’s sorrowful tune. The two were similar but distinct. Miyabi’s head swam as her mind strained under the weight of Aionios and its tragedy. This grief, it needs to be felt. These feelings, I have to send them on! 

Her hands moved on their own as her left eye illuminated, her Iris activating of its own accord. A flute, quite similar to Mio’s, appeared in Miyabi’s hands as she raised them, unbidden by her conscious mind, to her lips. With muscle memory that was etched deep within her, Miyabi began to play with Mio once again. The words of those around her didn’t matter, her own thoughts irrelevant for the moment. Iona’s hand grasping at the sleeve of her dress did little to deter her playing. All that mattered now was the pair of Agnian Off-Seers from Colony Theta joining their instruments’ voices once again.

Without missing a beat, Mio’s tune changed. No longer was she playing Noah’s tune, but her own. At some point, Miyabi’s feet had begun to move on their own. She walked down the aisle towards the stage. Mio’s core glowed as steps of wind formed to aid her ascent. As they reached the loop of the piece, Miyabi arrived and stood beside her friend and Off-Seeing partner at center stage. Her memories had returned, and Glorysong Miyabi met Mio’s eyes as she nodded. As they had a thousand times before, Mio and Miyabi played together. This time, however, instead of sending the dead, it was to aid the living.

 

Cammuravi

Cammuravi’s usually strong legs buckled under the weight of his restored memories. His most recent life in Aionios had been short, but poignant. Accelerated to his tenth term by Consul Y, he had been freed from Moebius’ grasp by Ouroboros. He’d been plagued by pain in his left eye he never understood. A young girl had been there to guide him, to be his eyes when his own would fail him. Unsatisfied with being forced onto the sidelines, she had forfeit her ten terms in exchange for a body she could fight with. Ethel, a woman as dedicated to the Warrior’s Way as he had been, fought by his side in the leadup to the final confrontation with Moebius. The name that had come to him unbidden, Silvercoat, at last, made sense as these memories mingled with his previous lives. She was Silvercoat Ethel, and he, Smouldering Cammuravi. Commanders of Colony 4 and Colony Delta respectively, the two were fierce rivals. She spared my life. She disobeyed every military protocol because our duel was cut short through no fault of my own. It cost her her colony’s rank, and me my freedom. In the end, we fought on our terms as best we could, and proved to be true equals.  

He forced his eyes open, and saw Master Rayon looking at him with concern evident in his eyes. “I’ve never known you to be weak in the knees, Cammuravi,” Master Rayon said while he offered his hand. As Cammuravi used it to pull himself up off the theater floor, Master Rayon continued, “I am here, old friend. Tell me what you will, and I will listen.”

“You asked if I might have met my future Driver in Aionios. I believe I did, with all the fire in my heart.” Master Rayon smiled as Cammuravi continued, “But know this, my Master. They did not hail from Alrest, but from Keves.”

“Interesting,” he said. The theater was filled with the combined murmur of a thousand similar conversations taking place. Out of the corner of his eye, Cammuravi could see Mio, whom he still couldn’t fully believe he knew, as she embraced another familiar face from Aionios, Miyabi. Master Rayon continued, “What about this person makes you confident enough to designate them as your future Driver?”

“I will tell you the story of Silvercoat Ethel. Afterwards, I doubt I will need to explain much more.”

 

Isurd

Isurd’s heart raced as he struggled to come to terms with the maelstrom of emotions his memories’ return had created. What a curious feeling. I spoke with Nimue mere moments ago, yet my heart is overcome with relief at seeing her, as if reuniting after many years. This curiosity was rapidly replaced with anxiety as a new thought invaded Isurd’s mind. How am I going to explain to her that I was too afraid to see her again? How am I meant to handle this with the grief I feel? Or my worries about the state of those I cared for in Lambda? Unable to make eye contact with Nimue, he knelt down to grasp his fallen Disc Launchers. He could have dismissed them, certainly, but this gave him precious time to attempt to compose himself.

As he righted himself and dismissed his Blade, he felt a familiar cold touch on his arm. “Isurd?” Nimue asked, her voice shaking with trepidation, “Can you hold me for a moment?”

He nodded. “Certainly. I could use an embrace, myself.” Nimue wrapped her arms around his chest and held him close, her cooling touch helping to soothe his nerves. The scent of Saffronia blossoms drifted up from her hair. His shirt soon dampened with the addition of her silent tears. Isurd imagined Nimue’s hair received the same treatment.

Eventually, Nimue broke the silence. “Aionios was so cruel,” she said, her voice shaking like newborn garaffa’s legs. “I’m so grateful I got to save you, Isurd.” She wiped the tears from her eyes. “Even if it was cruel, I’m still grateful you gave me a chance to see that world. It really was beautiful.”

“That it was,” Isurd agreed. I should apologize. The longer I wait, the harder this is going to be. But we should be somewhere private. “Nimue, when we get the chance, I want to speak with you more privately about Aionios. We have a lot to discuss that I wouldn’t feel right doing with so many people around.”

Nimue nodded, and straightened herself back up. She took a deep breath to compose herself. “We should go and thank Mio. I know my most recent incarnation owes her a lot. I’m sure she helped you as well.”

“More than I could discuss even with a whole evening to do so,” Isurd acknowledged as the pair made their way to the stage.

 

Fiona

“Juni, look! The village is so pretty!” Fiona cried out, unable to contain her excitement as she crested the hill overlooking New Garfont Village. Juni and Irmee were close behind her, as were Thunze and Pandy-Dandy, the group’s chaperones for their outing. Juni had tried to argue they were perfectly capable of making the journey by themselves, but Ra-ra had insisted. Then she packed them all lunches, which smelled amazing! Mi-mo really is lucky! Her parents are all so nice! Her sisters too! I have to remember to thank Allie for helping out Colony Mu with those supplies when we get back to Agnus Castle.

“Alright, listen up chaps!” Thunze bellowed out. “Here’s the plan. Pandy and I are gonna introduce you to the lads in charge down there. Couple of blokes by the names of Yew and Zuo.”

“They have files of everyone enlisted with the mercenaries,” Pandy-Dandy added, “so they know everyone pretty well. If there’s anyone with a core match, they’re our best bet of finding them quickly.”

“Oh! This is so exciting! I wish Tai Tai could have come with us,” Fiona bubbled.

“The village is your oyster,” Thunze said, “except! No trying to order any funny stuff at Vargel Tavern!”

“Of course not!” Irmee cried indignantly.

“Shall we get started, then?” Juni asked. “Now that I’m here, I’m getting quite anxious to start.”

“Let’s go!” Fiona called out as she followed Thunze down the path towards the mercenary HQ.

The village was alive and bustling with activity. Fiona spotted people of all backgrounds walking around, bustling this way and that. A Nopon was directing a group of Blades where to put some supplies. A female Blade in an outfit that was best described as both ‘loud’ and ‘leaves little to the imagination’ was chatting away with a woman at a tavern. As far as Fiona could tell, the other woman was completely unable to get a word in edgewise. A bird-like Blade trained new recruits in a small clearing, his scarlet feathers striking against the otherwise verdant background. A young woman with hair with all the colors of a cascading aurora, Fiona couldn’t tell if she was a Blade or not from this distance, appeared to be having an in-depth conversation with a massive white polar bear, every so often laughing. Her voice is so pretty! It’s like she’s singing when she laughs!

“Here we are!” Thunze declared. “Yew, Zuo! The Zekenator has arrived!”

An Ardanian and an Urayan man stepped out from the tent, accompanied by a pair of Blades. The Urayan spoke up, “Ah, Zeke! Good to see ya again.” He looked over at Fiona and her friends, “These the Blade Eaters you said wanted to see us?”

“Right!” Pandy-Dandy replied. “These are Fiona, she/her, Irma, she/her, and Juniper, they/them,” she said, pointing to each in turn. “They’re Aionian war vets that have their memories back, so no need to talk down to them or anything.”

“Thanks, lass,” the Urayan said. “My name’s Zuo, he/him, and this is my Blade, Fulmed, also he/him.”

“Making me Yew, he/him” Yew added, “and this is my Blade, Zeylos, also he/him.”

“It’s so nice to meet you all!” Fiona replied jubilantly.

“Now,” Yew said, “you’re all lookin’ to find out whose cores you all have, right?” Fiona and her friends nodded. “Follow us inside then. Matching up a Core Crystal could take a bit of time, so we’ll want to get nice and comfortable while we wait.”

---

“You’re in luck, folks,” Yew said as he returned to the tent where Fiona’s group had been eating Ra-ra’s delicious packed lunches. “Looks like we managed to find a match for all three of your cores.”

“Oooo! This is so exciting!” Fiona cheered. “I can’t wait to thank them properly!”

“I’m sending the info to your Irises now,” Yew said. A mental ping let Fiona know the message had arrived. 

Irmee was the first to speak. “Looks like my match is a female Dark Element Blade named Marigold. She favors an ether cannon.”

“You both use similar weapons,” Juni noted, “I wonder if that’s a coincidence.”

Irmee sent them each the image she’d received of Marigold. She was much shorter than Fiona expected, only about as tall as a Nopon! She was utterly dwarfed by her weapon. She has the biggest smile on her face though. She seems really nice!

“What about you, Juni? I’m dying to know!” Fiona inquired. 

Juni nodded, as they pulled up their Iris. “Their name is Orimes. They use an Earth Element Megalance.”

Fiona looked over the image of the Blade in question. “They’re huge!” she cried out. “They make Cap’n and Lan-Lan look tiny!” Indeed, Orimes easily fit the category of Giant-type Blade. They were eight feet tall and had a look of fierce determination on their face. I wonder who’s stronger, Orimes or Sennie?

“Well don’t hold out on us Fifi,” Irmee teased. “Tell us your match!”

“Okay, okay! Hold your Armu, I’m sending his picture now!” Fiona tapped her Iris and sent her friends Aelen’s photo. 

“A beast-type Blade, now that’s a surprise,” Irmee said. 

“He’s a Wind Element Blade that uses Twin Rings like Mi-mo!” Fiona informed them. “Though his are more geared for support than defense.” He’s so cute too! He looks like a cuddly Volff and Ferris had an adorable baby! 

“Well chums,” Thunze interjected, “you’ve got the information you came for. The question now is what are you gonna do with it?”

“We ask them if they want to meet us, of course!” Fiona answered surely. “I want to thank them in person, and hopefully become good friends!”

Pandy-Dandy spoke, “Just be prepared for them to say no. They might still be really upset about having their cores used like that, so don’t get your hopes up, alright?”

“Right,” Fiona said, somewhat deflated. Please, please, please want to be friends, Aelen! Fiona steeled her nerves and composed a message to the Blade with whom she shared a Core. 

Hello Aelen!

My name is Fiona and you saved my life when I was younger. I hate to stir up sad memories, but I’m the girl they used your Core to save. They did terrible experiments on me, and without your Core, I wouldn’t have survived. Even though I’m sure it wasn’t your choice, I owe you my life and would love the chance to thank you properly in person. 

I’ve been through a lot since then. I escaped the Indoline loyalists with a few of my friends. We’ve been living in Sanctuary ever since. I fought in Aionios, and even helped Ouroboros fight Moebius. None of this would have been possible without you. I understand if you don’t want to, but I would absolutely love it if we could be friends. I’m currently in New Garfont for the day, and I’ll be staying at Agnus Castle for the next while. If you want to meet, please just let me know! I hope your life has been kinder to you since you found a new home here with the Garfont Mercenaries.  

Hopeful Future Bestie,

Proudbanner Fiona, Commander of Colony Mu

 

Satisfied with her work, Fiona sent the message off to Aelen. Now we wait. Oh, I hope he responds soon. I’m no good at being patient. She watched as Juni, then a bit later, Irmee, sent their messages off. 

Irmee spoke up, “What do we want to do while we wait for a response?”

“I’ll go mad if I just sit here,” Fiona admitted. 

“There is the Battle Observer,” Thunze suggested. “Chap’s got a load of stories about how The Zekenator and Co. bashed up some Unique Monsters back in the day.”

Irmee shrugged. “Sounds interesting enough. Lead the way.”

 

Noah

Noah smiled as he made his way back to Melia’s quarters. Today’s memory restorations had gone better than he could have hoped. He felt more confident than ever this would work. As he entered the Audience Chamber, he found a familiar face. 

“Good afternoon, Noah,” Shulk greeted him. “Has Melia asked to see you as well?”

Noah nodded. “She wants to know how today’s memory restoration went, and Crys is off commissioning Off-Seer flutes from Giddygiddy.”

“I see you opted for a power frame today,” Shulk noted. 

“It’s one of the safety precautions Melia set up for us.” The pair stepped into the transporter, arriving in the hall leading to Melia’s quarter. Dr. Reid was leaving as they arrived. Noah waved, and she smiled. Noah and Shulk waited outside Melia’s door. Moments later, it dissolved and Noah saw Tyrea waiting for them. She nodded curtly and gestured for them to come inside, sealing the door behind them before walking silently to the corner of the room.

Melia was in more casual clothes than Noah had ever seen her in before. Sweat could be seen on her forehead, and she was seated in a comfortable-looking chair taking a drink of water. “Noah, Shulk. Thank you for taking the time,” Melia greeted them. “I must apologize for my appearance; this was the only time I could find to speak to you both.”

“Don’t worry about it,” Shulk and Noah said in unison, which caused everyone but Tyrea to laugh.

“Let us start with Noah,” Melia said. “How did Memory Restoration go? I noticed your request for additional funds for the construction of Off-Seer flutes. I authorized Crys to submit Giddygiddy’s bill to the Imperial account.”

“Thank you,” Noah replied. “I think today went really well. The four people we restored the memories of seem ready and willing to help out. I think we can open it up to the public tomorrow.”

Melia smiled. “That’s wonderful news, Noah. I’m certain many people will be relieved to know their memories are now within reach.” She paused for a breath before she continued, “I’m also relieved to hear that the security measures were not needed today.”

“May I ask how Mio’s Memory Restoration went?”

Melia shook her head. “I am not aware of how that turned out at present. Queen Nia and I have a call planned later this evening to discuss that very topic. I will be sure to let you know tomorrow morning.” Melia turned to Shulk. “How is the work on Reunification?”

Shulk sighed, “It’s slow going. We spent most of the day attempting to see if any of Origin’s current functions would be sufficient. Several of the simulations went well at first, but Annihilation Events would always crop up eventually, usually in a matter of hours at most.”

Melia asked, “Do you have any idea what’s causing them?”

“From what we can tell, the matter keeps attempting to revert to its previous state,” Shulk explained, “like it's out of equilibrium. I’m sorry I don’t have better news.”

“It is most alright, Shulk,” Melia comforted her old friend. “If this problem had been simple to solve, there would have been no need for Origin as it is now in the first place. I did not expect you to discover the solution in a day.” She sighed, “Although, I will admit that would have been wonderful if you could have found something. Thank you both for your report. If you will excuse me, I need to-”

Melia stopped suddenly and lilted forward. Noah moved to catch her, thankful for the power frame he wore greatly augmenting his ten-year-old body’s strength. His eyes were drawn by the flash of light on metal, and it brought his attention to the dart in Melia’s neck. Sparks, an assassination attempt?! In a flash, his battlefield instincts took hold once again. He laid Melia down and pulled up his Iris as he yelled out to the others in the room, “Assassin! I’m calling Sharla, focus on finding them!”

Tyrea was a blur of shadow as she dove out the window, her headwings extending as she glided across the courtyard, scanning for threats. Shulk closed the window and drew the curtains, cutting off the assassin’s line of sight. Melia’s breathing was labored, and she was deathly pale. Her veins were a deep purple. Poison. Ashes and flames. Noah finally got his call to connect, “Sharla, no time. Melia’s been poisoned, we need you in the Royal Bedchambers now!” Noah watched Shulk run out the door, on his Iris, likely mobilizing his friends as they spoke.

“I’m on my way, just hold on!” she shouted. “If you have any curing Arts, use them! They’ll buy us time!” The line went dead as Noah heard her begin running.

Noah heard the Imperial Guard mobilize to lock down Alcamoth, hoping to prevent the intruder’s escape. Siren 3, the one that advised citizens to remain in their homes during a crisis, began to blare across the night air. Noah quickly switched his class to War Medic and unloaded a cure bullet into Melia. Her breathing became easier, and some color returned to her, but Noah could tell the toxin was far from expelled. Noah focused on using healing Arts as they became available, but even his untrained eye could tell he was losing the battle against this poison, slowly but surely.

Noah’s Iris pinged. He was getting a call from Eunie, which he answered immediately. “Noah, love, you have any clue what the snuff is happening?” She was running past shop after shop, likely on Melfica Road, and Noah could see Ashera in front of her, leading her through the crowd of panicking Alcamoth citizenry and tourists with expert skill. 

Lanz and Joran joined the call as Noah responded, “Melia was attacked in her chambers. Poisoned dart.” He paused to apply another round of healing Arts. “I’m keeping her stable as best I can with War Medic until Dr. Reid arrives. Tyrea and Shulk are in pursuit, but I don’t think any of us clocked the assassin.”

“Sparks,” Eunie cursed.

“No wonder the city’s on snuffin’ lockdown,” Lanz added. “I’m still at the villa with Joran. I can be in a power frame and at the gates in five minutes.”

“Ashe and I are almost there already,” Eunie said. “Lanz, can you-”

“Already on it, I’ll be there with your frame too Eunie.”

“I’m gonna stay at home. I’m no fighter,” Joran admitted.

 Eunie growled, “We can’t let this mudder get away with this.”

“Agreed,” Noah said. “How are we going to find the assassin, though?”

“I’ve got an idea for that,” Eunie answered. “If not even Tyrea saw them, I think they must have been cloaked somehow. Like a Ferron, ya know?”

“Please return to your homes, young ladies,” Noah overheard a guard tell Eunie and Ashera.

“I’m Ouroboros mate, I’ve got clearance and she’s with me. Check my Iris if you don’t believe me.”

“Lanz, I’m going to let Shulk and Tyrea know about the possibility of a Ferron,” Noah said. “I’ll call you all back once I’ve handed Melia off to Sharla.”

“Got it, mate. See you soon.”

---

After five agonizingly slow minutes, Sharla arrived. “Help me move her to the bed, Noah.” Together, they carefully picked Melia up and rested her on the bed. Sharla removed a small vial from her bag and carefully drew up a portion in a syringe. She found a vein and injected the clear fluid into Melia. Sharla breathed a sigh of relief as the inflammation lessened as the fluid worked its way through Melia’s system. “I made it in time, thank goodness. Thank you, Noah. Without you keeping her stable, I never would have made it.”

“Don’t even mention it. Melia’s my friend, I couldn’t bear the thought of losing her,” Noah replied. “I need to go now. I have somewhere I’m supposed to be.”

Sharla nodded, but her attention was clearly on the patient. Noah couldn’t blame her. As he ran towards the entrance to the Imperial Palace, Noah switched his class back to Swordfighter and prepared himself for a long night.

 

Eunie

As Eunie and Ashera reached the Imperial Palace entrance, they had only a moment to catch their breath as Noah and Lanz came into view. Lanz didn’t miss a beat as he passed Eunie and Ashera a power frame each.

“Thanks, Lanz,” Eunie said as she quickly attached hers to her Medic Gunner gear.

“Always a gentleman, Lanz,” Ashera winked at him.

“You know it,” Lanz agreed. “Now let’s find this mudder and snuff ‘em up.”

“We don’t even know where to start looking,” Eunie lamented.

“I had an idea about that, actually,” Noah said. “Follow me, I’ll explain as we run!” Everyone fell into a synchronized run, years of Kevesi military training in Aionios dictating their pace even now. “Do you remember when we were helping Segiri settle into Li Garte?”

“Of course, man,” Lanz replied as Eunie nodded.

“One of the first issues we ran into,” Noah paused for a breath as he continued past the first major moving walkway to the lower level, “was securing a supply of ether cylinders for their Ferron units, right?”

Lanz appeared unsure of where Noah was going with this as he nodded along, but Eunie’s eyes lit up. “You think if they’re using a Ferron,” Eunie reasoned as she flashed her Iris at a guard that moved to stop them, “they’ve gotta have a stash of ether cylinders nearby, right?”

“So we’re looking for their supply cache then?” Lanz said.

Noah nodded. “Sooner or later they’ll have to refuel. We don’t need to find them.”

“They’ll come right to us,” Ashera finished. “Simple, yet effective. I love it, even if it is a bit on the boring side. Still, I get to fight an assassin, so I’m plenty entertained.” Eunie rolled her eyes at Ashe’s unquenchable lust for battle, but now wasn’t the time to tell her off. Her ten-year-old lungs needed all the breath they could get.

“There must be someplace out of the way nearby where they could be hiding, yeah?” Lanz asked. “Surely Shulk and his lot would know better than us. Not too familiar with the geography of this place outside of Aionios.”

“Where’s four-eyes when you need him?” Eunie muttered, the ache of her Interlink partner’s absence once again coming into full focus as she ran.

“I asked Shulk when I was on my way to the entrance,” Noah said. “He said there’s a place on the shoulder called Zekr Marga Quarry.” They had reached the transporter to Soltnar Seal Island. Luckily, the guards from before appeared to have given them the heads up, so all Noah had to do was flash his Iris and they let their group through.

The cool night air of the Bionis’ Shoulder was somewhat of an adjustment from the carefully controlled climate of Alcamoth, but everyone in their group had dealt with worse. They all ran down the sleek ramps of Soltnar Seal Island, crossing the bridge onto the other half of the island with ease. “I’m transmitting the location to your Irises now,” Noah called out. In mere moments, Eunie saw their path clearly outlined in front of her. It was a hike, to be certain, but if they maintained an even pace, they should make it no problem. Their group came to a screeching halt, however, as they approached the steel bridge spanning Whisperwind Crossing.

“Oh spark me,” Eunie squeaked as she encountered the bridge spanning a dizzying height, “forgot about this.” Her knees were locked up and it took everything she had not to pass out on the spot from fear. You can see clear to the damn ocean by Colony 9! She thought back to them entering Alcamoth earlier that week. Noah’s mom had to blindfold me and carry me across, her cheeks flushed red at the thought.

“No time to stop,” Ashera said. Suddenly, Eunie felt her legs taken out from under her as her entire world went horizontal. “Up you get, we’ve got an Empress to avenge!”

Ashera, that crazy mudder, had picked her up and was running across the bridge with Eunie in her arms in a bridal carry! “What the spark are you-”

“Shhh, Eunie,” Ashera interrupted her protest, “Just focus on my face and enjoy the ride.”

Much to Eunie’s chagrin, Ashe’s plan was working. Her mind was so torn between fear, anger, and embarrassment it couldn’t really focus on any of them. All the while, the group was clearing Whisperwind Crossing without Eunie having to set foot on that terrifying bridge herself. For someone so smart, she really is an idiot sometimes. This was the first opportunity she’d had to study Ashera’s face up close since Aionios, and Eunie could see the Hero of the Homs’ influence in her more clearly than ever. 

Eunie flashed back to a private moment the two had shared in Aionios. Anything to keep from thinking about how snuffing high up she was at the moment. 

“You know Ashe,” she said as she retrieved her hoodie from the lamp it had been unceremoniously tossed on the night before. “If you weren’t such a suicidal maniac, you have the look of a real hero.”

“Oh, do I now?” Ashera had responded as she recovered her bra that had somehow made its way to the doorknob. “I’ll bite. Suppose I did play the role of hero. What kind of hero’s welcome should the Undying Blade expect from a certain Medic Gunner?” An invisible gauntlet had been thrown down, and Eunie wasn’t one to back down from a challenge.

“Why don’t you put that bra down, come over here, and find out?” 

Eunie pulled out of the memory. She chose to focus on just how on the nose her observation had been without either of them knowing than on what happened next. Those thoughts in this body just feels weird. Even though it was totally fine at the time (much better than fine if she was honest with herself).

“We’re here!” Ashera called out, as she gently placed Eunie’s feet back on the ground and called her back from her own thoughts. 

Aware of her surroundings once again, Eunie stared up at Kallien Lighthouse as it kept a silent vigil over this crossing and Fort Gran Dell to the east. She turned to Ashera and whispered, “Thanks for that, Ashe.”

“Don’t mention it,” she whispered back as Noah and Lanz reached them. The group ran through Pillar Knoll, moved carefully through Barough Ruins Cave, and exited onto Barough Plaza. The trail overlay from her Iris curved to the left, and she wasted no time following its lead. The path outlined by the overlay continued to curve left until they reached a place known as Fyme Lane. 

“Eyes up, you lot,” Eunie cautioned their group as they neared the Scapular Lance, “we’ve got Tirkin and Quadwings up ahead.”

“Snuff, we don’t have time for this!” Lanz cursed.

“They’re both territorial,” Noah added, “but we should be able to just outrun them.”

What would Taion do? Eunie asked herself. He’d evaluate everyone’s capabilities to minimize risk, since our time constraint prevents us from taking them out one by one. She quickly inventoried her companions' current classes in her head. Swordfighter, Heavy Guard, Lone Exile, and Medic Gunner. Only one healer. A bit risky, innit? I suppose we’ve always got Ouroboros to fall back on, but Ashera doesn’t have that option. She contemplated this for a moment before an idea came into her head. Huh. I wonder if we can still access the old accessories we had in Aionios. We could link them to our Blades, so it’s not completely insane to try.

Eunie visualized the accessories she typically equipped when she’d been in her Medic Gunner class in Aionios, half expecting to just look like a complete spoon grasping at nothing in midair. Much to her delight and surprise, she felt the Solis Rings on her fingers, the Devotional Necklace around her neck, and the Break Brooch on her chest. Even better, they all adjusted to fit her ten-year-old frame! I don’t get how that works, but I’m sure as spark not gonna complain.

“Eunie, what are you-” Noah started to ask. Then he saw the accessories. “Eunie, that’s brilliant!” He turned to Lanz and Ashera before he continued, “Everyone, picture your accessories from Aionios. Eunie just summoned hers.” Eunie saw everyone’s various accessories manifest, including the locket everyone but Taion initially thought she’d spent way too many Gold Nopon Coins on, appear on Ashera’s neck. It had saved their arses more times than Eunie could count.

“Now, we try to run past them,” Eunie instructed. The others wasted no time listening.

---

They had run past the Tirkin and Quadwings, into Gamaro Hollow past some enormous Torta, then into the Forbidden Hushland, using the fog as cover from the various monsters within, including the absolutely snuffing massive Mammuts and Sauros. They finally reached the entrance to Zekr Marga Quarry. “Some of those mudders would have fit right in in Lower Maktha,” Eunie whispered.

“No snuffing kidding,” Lanz agreed.

“Okay, kill the noise,” Noah instructed. “We want to make sure if we find this assassin, we have them cornered. Shulk, Tyrea, and Fiora should already be inside.”
“So our job is to make sure no one leaves, yeah?” Lanz asked. Noah nodded in affirmation.

“Let’s trap this mudder and make ‘em talk,” Eunie said as they entered. Immediately, Eunie knew this place must be a Giant’s ruin. The stairs were massive and the ceilings were huge. Thankfully, the large staircase combined with their short statures made staying hidden easy, as they could all simply crouch beneath the railing. As they turned the corner at the bottom of the stairs, Noah held up a hand. They all stopped, and he waved Eunie forward. 

As she reached Noah’s position, she immediately saw what he had stopped the group for. The floor was absolutely littered with Arachno corpses. What the spark? She approached one to examine its wounds. The monster’s body was badly burned, but also covered in slash wounds. Something about the wound seemed oddly familiar. Eunie thought back on all of her studies of field medicine in Aionios. The wound didn’t match any conventional Blade wound she’d seen. It was most certainly a weapon wound though. That’s when it hit her. She whispered to the rest of the group, “It was done in by a Blade using rogue ether. It’s from a Ferron’s Doom Axe. We’ve got ‘em.”

They continued forward. They passed more Arachno corpses with Doom Axe wounds. Occasionally, they would find a Volff corpse or an Orluga with similar wounds. As they reached a large staircase, the corpses transitioned to Kromars, done in by the same weapons. The late hour was beginning to take its toll on Eunie, but she ignored it for now. She had a job to do. Besides, she could hear the sound of a voice in the distance. It was far too garbled to make out what the person was saying, but it sounded oddly familiar. That can’t be good. She could see Noah and Lanz tense up as well. Not just me that recognizes it then. They picked up their pace as they approached the room. They could hear the sounds of fighting, and a feminine voice laughing maniacally.

“I can’t believe you three let yourselves be pulled into such an obvious trap!” the unknown voice mocked Shulk, Fiora, and Tyrea. “I was only hoping to get the ex-Bionite Assassin. The God-Slayer and his wife are a wonderful bonus. You really are quite generous.”

No snuffin’ way. I know that voice! That’s Consul H!

“Interesting,” she heard Tyrea say as they nearly entered the room, “you seem to recognize us, yet you appear to lack sufficient fear. You’re either incredibly arrogant, incredibly stupid, or both.”

 

Noah

“Well, what are you waiting for?” H asked. “Kill them!” As the remaining Ferron units dove towards Shulk and Fiora, Noah gave the signal to his companions. Their Blades manifested in an instant, and they charged forward as one. 

This turned out to be entirely unnecessary. Shulk and Fiora cut down the Ferron units with a single blow each as Tyrea charged down the woman who had become Moebius H in Aionios. She summoned ice-cold elemental ether and sent it out in a circle around herself. The Empress’ Shadow effortlessly leaped over it and disarmed H in a single fluid motion. As H’s staff clattered to the ground, Tyrea pushed the woman to the ground with one of her dagger gauntlets at her throat. “Don’t move,” she instructed H, “or I will be more than happy to relieve your neck of its burden.”

“Empress’ eyes, that was snuffin’ impressive,” Eunie whistled. 

“Aw, is it over already?” Ashera pouted as she sheathed her Blade. “It was just getting fun.”

As Tyrea clamped ether shackles on H and read her her rights, Noah’s eyes were drawn to the Ferron scrap heap. 

“They were empty,” Fiora explained. “None of them were manned.”

“My guess is they were customized with old Mechon artificial intelligence to operate independently,” Shulk explained. “I’ll have to bring them back to Alcamoth for a full examination.”

Noah was about to respond when he received a notification on his Iris. He couldn’t believe what he was reading. Grand Marshal Class Unlocked. “We can still unlock new classes outside of Aionios?”

“Seriously?” Lanz said incredulously. “That’s handy.”

Curious, Noah equipped Shulk’s class for the first time. As usual, he gained an innate understanding of how to wield the class’ Blade, skills, and a new outfit. What surprised him was the Blade he summoned. That’s not a copy of the Monado REX+.

Eunie finished his thoughts for him, “Hold up, is that N’s Sword of the End?”

There was no mistaking it; This was indeed N’s weapon of choice. Without warning, the razor-sharp black sword began to collapse in on itself, leaving a deep purple light in its place. As the weapon vanished, the light rapidly collected in Noah’s palm, forming a shape Noah had seen only three times; once on the mysterious stranger in the space between their worlds, once on Mythra, and once on Pyra. Unlike those, however, this was a deep shade of purple. 

As it came to rest in Noah’s palm, it flashed without warning, drawing in ether from all around it. A Blade, black with gold accents, appeared in his hands. A large ring rested above the hilt, empty but still pulsing with a level of power Noah had only felt from Z. The weapon, a longsword that flared to life with a dark purple energy, a strange, foreign symbol the same color as the blade that appeared in the ring, was not Noah’s focus. 

Instead, everyone’s eyes were on the man who had appeared in the room before them. He wore jet-black armor and had short, black hair. In the center of his chest was a Core Crystal that matched the one in Noah’s new Blade. He spoke, his voice deep, “And here I thought I was finished with these vermin.” He looked at Noah with a snarky grin that didn’t reach his eyes, “Congratulations, brat. You just made yourself the Aegis’ Driver. My name’s Malos.”

Notes:

I was shocked to find Yew and Zuo’s Blades weren’t named when I looked it up. As always, Eunie is a delight to write. Hero Quest: A Way to the Future, Completed! Grand Marshal Unlocked! Class Inheritor: Noah. And uh oh, Malos is back!

Chapter 12: Homecoming

Summary:

Our protagonists attempt to deal with the return of the self-proclaimed “Endbringer”.

Malos

Malos had no fucking clue how he was alive. His last memory was of him lying on the cool metal floor in the Aion Hanger of the Rhadamanthus Low-Orbit Station, struggling for breath as his damaged Core Crystal rapidly gave out on him. Yet here he was, alive and kicking with a new Driver in a place he sure as hell didn’t recognize. 

Speaking of his Driver, he was amusing. Despite being even younger than that brat Rex, he didn’t seem afraid of him. The kid feels really damn familiar, too. There were flashes of battles Malos never fought that flitted about in the back of his mind. 

His Driver spoke, “My name is Noah. You said you’re an Aegis? Like Mio’s parents?”

“Kid, I have no fucking clue who Mio is,” Malos scoffed. “But yeah, I’m an Aegis. Titan-sinking, incredible powers, world-ending weapons, the whole deal.” He saw three other brats. One looked human, but the other two were some crazy races he’d never seen. Is that an autonomous weapon from the World Tree? And what’s with the wings on the other one’s head? How long was I out?

A man with blonde hair and a woman in a fancy suit of armor approached. “Noah, step back,” the man ordered, “this man is extremely dangerous. Let Fiora and I handle this.” He drew his weapon from his back and activated something on his chest.

A Monado? Now this just keeps getting more interesting by the second. As he looked closer, he could tell the weapon lacked a Core Crystal. Damn, just a replica. And here I was hoping to have a little fun.

“Shulk’s right, you four need to get to safety, right now!” the woman, Malos assumed Fiora, agreed. She too drew her weapons and activated a device on the front of her armor.

“I do love a warm welcome,” he laughed as he manifested a new Monado from his Core. He looked at the pair approaching him. “You seem to know who I am. And you think you stand a chance,” he taunted, his Monado activated in his hands. “If you think you can take me on, then let’s dance!”

“Monado Armour!” Malos and Shulk cried in unison. So he knows how to use his toy. Even better. Malos prepared to cut right through Fiora’s follow-up attack, but much to his surprise, his Driver interfered. 

“Stop this, all of you!” Noah shouted as he parried Malos’ counterattack and he and the other brats interposed themselves between Malos and the pair. “What is fighting each other going to achieve?”

“Noah, all of you, stand down!” Shulk ordered. “You don’t understand who you’re dealing with!”

“No!” Noah shouted as he turned his back to Malos. “I know I don’t understand who he is, but I do know I’m his Driver!” Malos had a brief vision of a man with long hair in golden armor standing where Noah was. “Ino taught me that a Driver and Blade are one in body and soul! So while I draw breath, you won’t harm him!”

Were it not for what happened next, Malos would have been laughing hysterically at the corniness of Noah’s speech. Instead, for the first time in his life, Malos felt an Affinity Link form with his Driver. It was weak, still a deep blue rather than a brilliant gold, but it was there. A genuine fucking connection between Driver and Blade. Well I’ll be damned. Rex was on to something after all. Not that it’ll matter. Humans are all the same. They’ll kill the kid and come for me anyway.

To Malos’ surprise, Shulk lowered his weapon. “Noah, Malos is a murderer, an omnicidal nihilist. He’s a threat to everything you’ve worked for and everyone you care about.”

Noah shook his head, “He’s also Pyra, Mythra, and A’s family. Without him, none of us would be standing here. We’d have wasted away in Aionios until it annihilated itself. You know as well as I do. You were there when Ouroboros was truly unleashed. You saw what happened with your own eyes.”

“I appreciate the defense, brat,” Malos said, “but I haven’t a damn clue what you’re talking about. Shulk’s right. I’m an irredeemable monster.”

“Mate, do you wanna be alive or not?” the mechanical brat asked. “You’re giving mixed signals here.”

His Driver looked at him. “N thought like you, near the end. Once he lost M, he thought he was a monster too.” For some reason, the kid dismissed his Blade and pulled out a flute. “Maybe if you remembered, you’d see there’s a path forward for you too.”

“Kid, what the fuck are you-” Malos started to ask as his new Driver brought the flute to his lips and began to play.

The song the kid played had an immediate effect on him. His Monado vibrated, flashing between its current form and a jet black blade sharper than even Jin’s Nodachi had been. The visions of unknown battles from before returned, more intensely than before. It feels like stealing memories from the girl. Like I’m recovering a part of myself.  

“It’s fine!” a young Gormotti woman said as she covered a strange mark on her neck. Definitely Nia’s kid, but those eyes…there’s no way she’s the brat’s, right? “I’ve got three whole days. Three days is plenty. I’m sure we’ll be golden.”

Nia’s whelp was fading into blue motes behind a man in crimson robes floating towards Noah as he clutched desperately to the Sword of the End. “How many times has it been now…?” His eyes both illuminate with a crimson infinity symbol and the vision changes once more.

“Strong lungs on that one,” Noah commented as he entered the room. Nia’s brat was holding a brat of her own. “Heard him all the way outside.”

Judging from Noah’s face, it was his kid too, but that didn’t make sense. His Driver was ten, maybe eleven, tops. This Noah looked older, however. What the hell is going on?

The next scene was in the same room, but the mood couldn’t have been more different. Nia’s brat raised her hand to meet her child’s as she spoke, her voice extremely shaky, “I hope…I hope that…the future will be…kinder to you…”

“Mio…” Noah says as the woman dissolves into golden light. He sobs as the scene changes again. Even his hardened heart couldn’t help but be moved by Noah’s grief.

Noah and his son walk in a rainy forest as a single golden mote rises from Noah’s hand. He stops and kneels, grasping his son gently by the shoulders. “Daddy will have to go soon…All right?” The child nods, clearly distraught, as Noah continues. “But you know, your Daddy and Mummy’s love, our life, will always be within you. You’ll never…be alone.” He looks his son in the eyes. “Things will get tough…You’ll be hurt. You’ve a whole host of things to go through…as you head into the future. A time might come…when you’ll be on the verge of giving up. But you have to keep going. Make friends. Keep them close to you always. That’s what Daddy and Mummy did.” The child tears up and Noah gives him a final embrace. “We’re with you…now and forever…” He too, dissolves into golden light.

“So you have chosen, then. The ‘endless now’.”

An old man stared upon a man in golden armor with horror. “Father…?” Could it be Noah’s brat? If so, how was he so old, when his father looked the same? Was this part of the ‘endless now’ that mysterious figure mentioned?

The scene jumped forward, with the old man now impaled on the Sword of the End, shocking its wielder. Did his Driver just kill his own son?! Even for Malos, that was cold. The man spoke in labored breaths, “...What about Mum…? Did she…want this too?”

The golden armored man replied, “...You don’t need to know. That burden is…mine alone to bear.”

Nia’s brat, now dressed in silver armor, appeared in the midst of the city’s flaming wreckage, a horrified expression on her face. “Oh no…Tell me! Tell me why!”

Noah responded, “I didn’t…want to lose anymore.” All of this for Nia’s brat? Noah was down worse than even Rex had been for his partners. 

“I trust you will set forth once more,” a man, cloaked in a crimson robe with ethereal purple horns atop his head, spoke. A spotlight shone down on a stage as Noah nodded and vanished.

A storm raged near an unfamiliar lake as the golden armored Noah appeared once more. He spoke, moving forwards towards the Gormotti woman with Ontos’ fucking Core Crystal on her chest. “If raw emotion is what affords him strength, it must be disrupted with emotion stronger still.”

Off to the side, he could see Shulk and someone with Ontos’ core as an earring. But most surprising was the man with twin greatswords and a single eye. It was Rex, but he was a full-on adult now. He looked like that beefcake Malos had killed at the Olethro Ruins. A small part of him wondered if that was a conscious decision Rex had made.

“You fail to reach such a zenith,” Noah continued. “Alpha…I, N, shall thwart you once more. My blade will cut…your very will!” N was enveloped in Logos’ power as he closed the distance between himself and this Alpha in the blink of an eye.

A young man stands opposite N, a look of hatred commingled with fear on his face. He stood between N and this Alpha woman. He yelled at N, “Like killing Grandad wasn’t enough for you…” His left eye illuminated with a yellow-green flaming serpent as his whole body was enveloped in an emerald aura. The mirage’s form was lithe and graceful, with Gormotti ears atop its head. It vanished in an instant as this man sent a punch infused with this power forward and screamed “Now Na’el too?!”

The individual with Ontos’ core as an earring blocked the attack.

“The hell you playing at, A?!” the young man screams, any residual glow from that power fading as he did so. “Why?!”

A replied, “You must not lash out at him, Matthew! He’s not your enemy. I promise you!”

Matthew cried, “Stop talking shite! He’s trying to kill Na’el! He killed Grandad! And you’re…!”

A interrupted him, “He is…your flesh and blood!”

Matthew balked, “Wha-?!”

N removed his mask, his right eye illuminated with a crimson infinity symbol.

N stood amidst an impressive ruin, between familiar and unfamiliar faces and a dark portal. It didn’t look like any architecture Malos had ever seen. Above them was a truly massive construct, glowing with power from Malos’ core amidst a morning sky streaked with unnatural red lightning. A young woman with Pneuma’s core on her chest and hair the same color as Pyra’s shuddered at the sight of N. The young man next to her asked, “What is it?”

She responded, “I’ve never seen a Consul like that before.”

“I guess…that’s ‘cause he’s one of ours?”

She turned to look at him as she replied, “I know *that*.” Despite her resemblance to Pyra, her attitude was most definitely Mythra’s. “It’s the look in his eyes. Did you see?” They both turned to look at N. Malos immediately knew what she was referring to. His eyes looked like Jin’s had, the day he’d found him on the streets. 

“Whuh?”

“The other Consuls…In theirs, there’s joy. This gleeful glint…But for him…His hold no light at all.” She paused before she finished with, “I don’t like it…Not one bit.”

“It was Ghondor’s choice. I simply cut him down as he desired.”

“Don’t mistake me. I am one who lives in the now. My blade knows no regrets.”

“Drive it in! Release the power of Ouroboros!”

N looks skyward as a glowing Moebius signal appears over Alfeto Valley. D & J had failed. Ouroboros walked Aionios once again.

“K…Will you go?”

“Realization leads to hope….Which in due time turns to despair.”

“Is there naught here but these vulgar pleasures?”

“Well, well. ‘Smouldering Cammuravi’...Your name…is no mere affectation.”

“Its effective range…has no discernable limit whatsoever.”

“Eliminate Ouroboros,” N ordered a woman with silver hair.

She gasped. “You want me to-” She paused, taken aback. “Noah and the rest…?!”

“Naturally I am cognizant of the fact that the enemy is wily and capable. I have no intention…of sending you alone.”

“She needs to be there to see how hope dies.”

“Ouroboros rabble,” N chides Noah (?) and a group of others. “You dare to intrude on the presence of Her Majesty, Melia Antiqua?”

N taunts Noah. “It is fate.”

Noah responds confused, “Huh? Fate?”

“Many have tried,” N answers, “but none have ever managed to escape its flow.”

“Your luck well and truly,” N taunted as he removed his mask, “come to an end.” Noah gasped as he sees his own face. “On the day you chose to stand against M and N!”

“Let me handle this,” M said as she stepped in front of N.

“You want to…?” N replied. “That’s a surprise.”

“I need to show them.” She clarified. “Make them realize just how powerless they truly are. Just as *we* were once ‘persuaded’.”

“That’s enough,” N instructs M. “Get back.”

“I’ve just thought of the most wonderful little amusement.”

“Oh yes…I almost forgot to tell you something,” N taunts a furious Noah through prison bars. “You are now aware of the cycle of rebirth, yes? There is an exception.”

“Huh?” Noah said.

“Those whose flame is snuffed out during a Homecoming…will not return.”

N callously throws Noah’s black flute to the ground in front of Noah. “Pick it up.” He ordered.  “You’re an off-seer. So send her. What’s wrong?” N taunted. “Go on, send her. Isn’t that your role? Isn’t she your Mio?!”

“Wh-what…! Impossible…You’re…!” M turns to see him, her Iris a glowing hybrid of an Ouroboros ring and a Moebius infinity symbol. “Ouroboros?!” Malos can practically hear the cracking of glass as N’s world comes crashing down around him. “...Does that mean…? Back then, the two of you…?! So…the one who died is…?”

N is unsteady on his feet, his eyes locked on the pile of Mio’s clothes on the altar. He screams in agony. “Why, Mio…?! Why would you do this to me?! You said you’d be by my side! Mio! All I did, I did for you…!”

“You must have known,” Mio, not his Mio, but the other one replied. “The other me…She couldn’t follow you any more…She couldn’t go on!”

The scene jumped forward, not very far by Malos’ estimation. Still the same courtyard, the same brats, the same N. N is laughing maniacally. “Feelings, you say? You dare…” He cackles again. “My feelings…My feelings have never changed, they’re the same as they’ve always been!” N points the Sword of the End at the other Mio in M’s body. “They’re for you, Mio! The time I had with you meant everything to me! But now…it’s all gone…”

N made a sound that could best be described as a sob and a chuckle’s despicable child. “If she is truly gone, I’ll have to redo it all! Watch me! Rewind our clocks, back to the start!” Mio gasps in shock. “Noah…My long shadow…You have stolen her away from me…I will extinguish you, and take her back! Mio is MINE! She’s not yours, she’s mine. You are nothing. She belongs only to ME!”

“Is that…why she handed her life to you? Is that why she rejected me?!”

“You who wield the Sword of the End.The endless now is under threat of being cut short.”

“Well don’t you look smug, with my woman on your arm, Noah…”

“Mio…! Mio! Mio! Mio!!!” N screamed madly. He points his blade at Noah. “You’re the one who couldn’t protect her! In the end you were powerless! And now she’s gone…! How could you?! Answer me!!!”

“Won’t you come with us?” Noah asked N as he extended a hand. “You could try-try to move forwards again.”

“After so long…?” N replied.

“It’s what you both wanted, right? Well then…Easy choice.”

 

As the brat’s song concluded, the visions he’d seen fell into place. So I was the Sword of the End. He looked at Noah with newfound respect. Damn, brat. Wouldn’t have pegged you as the type. He considered what he’d been shown for a moment. If they could escape even a world where they were forced to be their worst, maybe Rex kept his word. It’ll be fun to find out. He dismissed his Monado, and turned to Noah, ignoring the screams of profanity from the strange woman on the floor pinned beneath another wing-headed person. “Noah, was it?” he asked. His Driver nodded. “Or would you prefer N?”

“I’d really rather you didn’t, if I’m honest,” he admitted.

Malos turned to Shulk and Fiora, “You can stow your weapons. I’ve decided to behave myself for the time being.” When they did not respond, he added, “What Noah showed me has me intrigued. I wanna know if the salvager brat kept his promise. That, and I’d love a chat with my partners.”

 

Sena

“You were both so great today!” Sena gushed as she praised Mimi and Miyabi. 

“Shhhh!” Mimi whispered. “You’ll wake my parents.”

“Oops,” Sena whispered back. “Sorry!” It was late at night, well past sunset. Mimi had invited Miyabi and Sena for a slumber party to celebrate their reunion. “I was just caught up in the joy of seeing you both performing together again.” She grasped the other girls’ hands. 

The trio were comfortably nestled in a hodgepodge of blankets and pillows at the foot of Sena’s sleeping bag. Miyabi was in a frilly white set of pajamas. Mio wore a comfortable, yellow tank top and a pair of red sleep shorts with an adorable little Dromarch face embroidered on the right thigh. Sena was more casual, simply wearing her Mom’s old shirt and some simple blue pajama bottoms.

“I really enjoyed playing with you again, Miyabi,” Mio said. 

“Me too! And getting to see Sena again was a nice bonus!”

“I didn’t expect Nimue and Isurd to be there,” Sena said. Nimue was much older than she had been when Sena had met her in Aionios. She was so pretty!

“Isurd looked a lot less tired,” Miyabi noted. “I’m glad he gets to rest more in Alrest.”

“We should invite him to the Smùide Hot Springs,” Mimi suggested.

“Oh, he’d love that!” Sena agreed.

Miyabi’s face lit up. “I’ve never been to Alba Cavanich before,” she admitted. “We don’t get to do a lot of shows in Mor Ardain.”

“I can show you everything,” Sena volunteered. “I’ve been all over the city. There’s this amazing dessert shop in the Ayvill Shopping District.”

“Salter Sweets, right?” Mio asked. Sena nodded. “You took me there when I visited once. It really was incredible, Miyabi.”

“All right you two,” Sena said, putting on a faux serious face, “time for some real talk. What trivial, everyday thing are you most excited to do now that we’re in Alrest again?”

“Ooo, good one Sena!” Miyabi whispered.

“Yeah, that’s a tough one,” Mio agreed as she came up behind Sena and began gently brushing Sena’s hair like Mio used to do for Eunie in Aionios whenever Ouroboros would manage to find some time for themselves. The trio sat in silence for a minute as they each contemplated their answer.

“I think,” Miyabi said, “I want to nestle up by a fire with Iona and eat Bitter Choclit until we’ve made ourselves sick of the stuff, all the while talking about music and theater!”

“That sounds lovely,” Mio said.

“Totally,” Sena agreed. “I have to know, Miyabi. Does Iona give good hugs?”

“They’re wonderful!” The trio giggled before Miyabi turned to Mio. “What about you, Mio?”

“I really want to play music with my sisters and Mum again,” Mio answered. “We played together all the time before Aionios. We even wrote some songs together. I really want to work with them on a piece about Aionios.”

“Aw, that’s really sweet, Mimi,” Sena said.

“I’m sure whatever you write will be wonderful!” Miyabi encouraged.

“Thanks, guys,” Mio said. “What about you, Sena?”

“Well, my moms and I had a night out planned to celebrate surviving the Intersection,” Sena replied. “We were going to go out and see a show, eat some Quoteletta and Thawing Mille-Feuille, and then head home. I really want to just have that night.” She sighed, “An opportunity to just be Sena with my moms.” She frowned briefly. “I just hope we have the time,” Sena muttered under her breath, before realizing her mistake. Her best friend’s ears swiveled towards her in an instant, the girl’s concern clear as day on her face. Yeah, Mimi definitely heard me.

“Sena, are you alright?” Mio asked.

“Totally fine!” Sena replied, far too forcefully to be believable.

Mio frowned. “Come on, Sena. You know you can talk to us.” Miyabi nodded emphatically.

Sena sat up before she responded. “I’m worried about Origin and a second Intersection.” She started to choke up as she forced herself to be brave and keep going. “I just got my family and friends back, and I don’t want to lose them again!”

With uncanny speed typical of the girl, Mio was somehow holding a box of tissues that had been on the desk on the far side of the room mere moments before, which she promptly handed her. “Can I give you a hug, Sena?” All Sena could do was nod as the tears, now that they had begun, flowed unceasingly down her face. She could feel Miyabi sit down on her other side as both girls wrapped Sena into a hug. Sena continued crying into Mio’s shoulder as Miyabi rubbed her back.

“I just feel so helpless, you know?” Sena confided. “This isn’t a problem I can solve by being strong enough.” She paused to blow her nose before she continued, “It’s not like I can just hit Origin really hard with a hammer and make everything better.”

“I understand how you feel,” Mio comforted her. “Even when I’m helping people get memories of Aionios back, I know I’m solving a problem. But it’s not THE problem. I worry about losing everyone too.” Mio leaned into the hug even more as she added, “And I’m constantly worried about Noah and the others. The thought of never seeing them again is…” She sniffled, “It’s absolutely devastating. I can’t bear it.”

Oh Mimi, Sena thought, I wish I could help.

“Don’t forget,” Miyabi said, “we’ve done the impossible before. Both of your parents have experience with it as well, Mio, Sena.” She handed Sena a much-needed tissue before she continued. “I believe in everyone. We’ve already found so many people from Aionios to help us. With everyone working towards this goal, we can do this!”

Sena wiped her face as she nodded. “You’re right. I’ve got to trust Uncle Tora and the others. I’ll ask Momma if there’s more I can do to help in the morning.” She smiled at the two girls at her sides, “I can’t let you two leave me behind with helping out, right? I promised Lanzy I wouldn’t slack off.”

 

Melia

As Melia opened her eyes, she saw that she was in her own chambers. The steady beeping in tune with her pulse had returned, as had the IV in her arm and the pulse oximeter on her finger, signaling that she was once again a patient of one Dr. Reid. The doctor in question was fast asleep in a chair across from Melia’s bed, propped up on her ether rifle. The curtains were drawn firmly shut, but the lack of light in the seams was enough to inform Melia that the hour was late indeed. 

Her thoughts were interrupted by a hacking cough, her stomach muscles screaming in protest at the effort. Sharla immediately woke up at the sound. “Melia! You’re awake! Thank goodness!”

“Indeed,” she replied, “although judging by your reaction, that was not a certainty.” Sharla gave a grim nod. “Please, tell me what transpired. Last I remember I was dismissing Noah and Shulk when I felt a sudden pain in my neck.”

“There was an attempt on your life,” Sharla explained. She produced a small cylinder with an even smaller object suspended inside of it. “This dart was filled with a deadly toxin. If it hadn't been for Noah’s quick thinking, I’d have never made it in time.”

An assassination attempt? Melia wondered. While I know I’ve butted heads with several ministers from time to time, I don’t believe I have any real political enemies in my own ranks. Who would bear me that strong a grudge? Her first thought was the Bionite Order, but it was quickly dismissed. Nearly all of them were full-blooded High Entia. They transformed during the Night of Awakening. Those that were of their order without the gene would have been slaughtered. So who else bore Melia ill will? She briefly considered Bana, but dismissed the thought as quickly as it had arisen. Bana always preferred a grand display when he wanted to make a point. Assassination isn’t his style. A chilling thought crossed her mind. A name she hadn’t contemplated in many years resurfaced. It was far-fetched, but there was an individual who despised Melia; As far as she knew, though, he was long dead. I need more information.

“Where are Shulk, Tyrea, and Noah?” Melia asked.

“I don’t know,” Sharla answered. “They were in pursuit of the assassin.”

Almost as if on cue, the door to Melia’s bedroom disappeared. Standing before her were Shulk, Fiora, Noah, Eunie, Lanz, and Ashera. They were not the focus of Melia’s attention, however. No, that was reserved for the figure she had only seen in recordings shown to her by Pyra and Mythra. Malos was alive, and standing a mere five feet away from her. And Noah was holding his Monado.

“Explain yourselves,” Melia commanded. “How, and more importantly, why have you awakened Malos?”

 

Nia

“He bloody wot?!” Nia cried incredulously at the screen depicting her Bionis counterpart. She began to regret telling her spouses to stay in bed while she took Melia’s emergency call. How does this crisis keep getting more bloody complicated?!? 

Melia nodded and repeated herself, “In the course of pursuing my would-be assassin, Noah accidentally awakened Malos from N’s Sword of the End.“

“No, I heard you,” Nia corrected. “I’m just trying to figure out how to process that Malos is back from the dead!” She sighed heavily. “Give me a moment. I need to call my spouses.” 

Melia nodded, and Nia pulled up her Iris and called Pyra, since she was the most agreeable to being woken up suddenly. It rang for a few moments before her wife picked up.

“Nia?” a sleepy Pyra mumbled, “What’s wrong? You said you’d be back to bed soon.” Pyra yawned suddenly, her poor wife barely having the reaction speed to cover her mouth as it happened. “Did something happen? Do you need us in the throne room?”

“I do. I need all of you here right away,” Nia answered solemnly. “There’s no good way to tell you, so I’ll just come out and say it: Noah awakened Malos by accident.”

The drowsiness cleared from Pyra’s face in an instant; her wife went from barely conscious to wide awake without missing a beat. “We’ll be right there,” she answered before adding, “Is anyone in any immediate danger?”

“Thankfully, no. I’ll explain when you all arrive.” 

Pyra nodded as she moved to their bed and ended the call. Nia turned back to Melia and spoke, “They’ll be here shortly.”

---

It didn’t take long for Nia’s spouses to arrive in the throne room. Mythra wasted no time marching right up to the communicator and addressing Melia rather curtly, “Explain. Now.” Melia repeated the story she had told Nia of the group of Kevesi Ouroboros pursuing her would-be assassin. The entire time, there was little Nia could do but try and comfort her partners, despite being in desperate need of some reassurance herself. As Melia finished, it was Rex who spoke up first.

“So what do we do now?” he asked. “We have to tell the other nations of Alrest about this. They’ve each got a right to know he’s back.”

“Are you crazy?!” Mythra shouted. “If we tell them, the support for Origin will evaporate in an instant!” Nia moved to try and hold Mythra’s hand, hoping to calm her wife, only to be brushed aside as Mythra stood up and continued berating Rex. “Oh let’s just tell everyone that the omnicidal maniac they thought was dead for twenty years is back! That will go great! It won’t cause mass panic and hysteria at all!” Mythra yelled. “Think for once, you simpleton!”

“Mythra!” Nia chastised her.

“What?! I’m right, aren’t I?” Mythra snapped back. Nia wasn’t fooled by Mythra’s brash display, though. No, she knew the anger was a front, meant to mask the fear within. Nia knew her wife was absolutely terrified.

“Sis,” Pyra said in a calm voice as she reached out for Mythra’s hand. “Take a deep breath. Lashing out at each other isn’t going to help us work through this.” 

Mythra opened her mouth to reply, but quickly shut it again. She took a deep breath and retook her seat. “I’m sorry, Rex. That was uncalled for. I do think it’s a bad idea, though.”

“No sweat,” Rex answered. “And I admit, I didn’t fully think it through. I don’t think keeping it to ourselves is the right move either.”

Pyra shook her head. “I think it might be, Rex.” She sighed, “As much as honesty is a virtue, in this case, I think the needs of both worlds outweighs it this time.”

“If we lie about this Py, where do we stop?” Rex countered. “Lying to advance our own goals? That’s a path to tyranny. If we give ourselves a pass on accountability for the worlds’ largest decision, what makes us different from Amalthus, Zanza, or Z?”

“I’m with Rex on this,” Nia added. “When I took the throne of Agnus, I swore an oath to the people of our nation. They placed their trust in me as Queen to act according to the will of the people and my own judgment. I can’t just ignore one half of that.” 

“If I can interject,” Melia said. “I have some experience when it comes to this type of thing.”

“By all means,” Rex nodded.

“There was a time when I had to unite the peoples of Bionis and Mechonis in tense circumstances.” Melia shuddered. “Zanza had just awoken, Shulk was presumed dead, and nearly all of my people had been forcibly turned into Telethia.” Her face hardened into an emotionless mask as she continued. “I was forced to watch helplessly from Junks as Zanza bisected the Mechonis. As we flew towards Colony 6, the last bastion of defense against Zanza and his disciples, I realized that we had no time for prejudice against the Machina among our people.” She sighed. “We were lucky Shulk had the foresight to begin inviting people from the Hidden Village to Colony 6 beforehand. Otherwise, people may not have adjusted in time to accept the Machina’s much-needed aid.”

Melia continued her story, “That is not to say I believe the prejudice and fear disappeared overnight. I am not naive. However, in that desperate moment, people were able to put their differences aside to face the greater threat. I believe this must be your path forward with Malos and Noah as his Driver.”

“You think the people of Alrest will come together, despite Malos’ history, because of a greater threat?” Nia asked.

“When you say a greater threat, you mean another Intersection, right?” Mythra asked. Melia nodded. “And what makes you so sure?”

Melia replied, “I believe that if your family of all people provide the endorsement, the idea will carry more weight. Having Otharon and Dunban on our side regarding the Machina made an incredible difference. No one had lost more in the war with the Mechon than those two. Can the same not be said of your family?”

Mythra shook her head. “I want to speak with him first. If we’re going to be advocating for his good behavior, I need to see him with my own eyes.”

“That can be arranged. I will set up a communication for you within the hour,” Melia promised.

Notes:

Holy fuck, Malos’ section was a ton a work. It took like two weeks on its own. This took far longer than I wanted to for it to come out. In my defense, the government stole my brain and I was functioning without essential medication. Depression and a severe case of writer's block struck soon after. Even worst, my job took a bunch out of me. I have thankfully attained a new job now, so I'm hoping to get back to writing more frequently.

Chapter 13: Over Despair and Animus

Summary:

Rex’s family and Malos have their fateful reunion. The former Consul H is interrogated by Tyrea, and provides a disturbing hint as to who might be working against Melia in the shadows. Sena has a Heart-to-Heart with her parents about her anxieties for the future as The Hero of the Homs and the Undying Blade have an important conversation of their own. Azurda arrives at Agnus Castle as Nia prepares to break the news of Malos’ return to Alrest.

Notes:

Content Warning: This chapter contains a depiction of racial slurs used against a fantasy race. It begins in Tyrea’s section with “Why you continue to back that blood traitor is beyond me.” And ends with “Though the slur bothered Tyrea”. It also contains a mention of suicide. It begins in Tyrea’s section with “After he bombed Teelan’s lab,” and ends before “If he’s been alive all this time.”

Malos

Malos stood alone in the communications chamber as the connection to Alrest stabilized. His Driver’s young body had passed out shortly after they had arrived at the Imperial Palace. Noah was currently asleep on a small bench just outside the communications chamber. I wonder what my partner was doing while I was asleep? Shulk had informed him that around twenty years had passed since he’d been defeated atop the World Tree.

His thoughts were redirected when the screen before him showed him a sight he was certainly not prepared for. He saw Rex, notably not missing an eye like in his memories, and, to his surprise, Nia. What shocked him the most, however, were the women standing on either side of Rex; Pyra and Mythra, in two separate bodies, flanked the Master Driver. He couldn’t stop himself from laughing, “Well I’ll be damned,” he chuckled, “I missed more than I thought.”

“Malos,” Mythra said dryly.

Ever the peacekeeper, Rex said, “I suppose I should start by saying welcome back.” His face morphed into a sheepish grin as he added, “I’ll have to ask you to wait just a bit longer for that drink. I won’t be able to take ya until the worlds recombine.”

“You still remember your promise to a dying man, huh?” Malos laughed.

“Of course. Rule Six of the Salvager’s Code: First have a punch-out, then drink to forget. Once you’ve forgotten, the friendship’s all set!” Rex recited without missing a beat. Pyra smiled while Mythra and Nia rolled their eyes. It was then that Malos caught the wedding bands on both his partners’ fingers. And Rex’s. And Nia’s.

“You married all of them, huh?” Malos asked, unable to keep the surprise from his voice. 

“Is that a problem?” Nia growled.

“Frankly, I don’t give a damn,” he responded. “Just trying to piece together what my new Driver said earlier about Mio’s parents being Aegises.” He watched them all wince as he mentioned Mio, Nia especially. “But let’s cut the bullshit,” he said, his voice dropping as he took a more serious tone. “You didn’t call me across time and space to catch up and talk about your kids. What do you want?”
“We need to know if you’ve changed,” Pyra said cautiously. “If we can trust you.”

“I’ve already killed you twice,” Mythra threatened. “I assume you would like to avoid a third time?”

“And why do you need to know if you can trust me so badly? It’s not like I’m a threat to you right now,” Malos pointed out.

“It’s complicated,” Nia sighed. “We’re trying to recombine the worlds properly, not that half-arsed shite Z pulled.”

“And, as you can likely imagine,” Pyra added, “the nations of Alrest have more than a bit of trepidation about Origin. We’ve had to ensure we’ve had a consensus since we started the project to avoid war.”

“Now I get it,” Malos replied, “you’re worried my reappearance will make them stop playing nice.”

“Bingo,” Rex confirmed. “Can’t say I would blame them for gettin’ spooked either. You did quite a number on ‘em all.”

“You can trust me,” Malos said. “I’m not out to destroy Alrest anymore.”

“How can you possibly expect us to believe that?” Mythra challenged him.

“Because,” Malos replied, “Rex has clearly kept his promise. About passing things on to the next generation, to keep humans from backsliding into selfish abominations.” Malos gestured to his Driver. “I’ve seen it in Noah’s memories.”

“His memories?” Nia asked.

“In a world that didn’t give a damn about them, Ouroboros raged against it,” Malos spoke. “And when they learned that the world would never allow them a real way forward, they destroyed it. Those brats proved the world doesn’t need an Endbringer anymore. If this world ever is truly beyond saving, they are more than capable of finding the power they need to end it themselves.”

“So that’s why…” Pyra gasped.

“He’s telling the truth,” Mythra declared.

Unable to resist the opportunity to antagonize Mythra, Malos retorted, “Oh, what makes you so sure?”

“You haven’t fundamentally changed. That I would have called bullshit on,” Mythra admitted. “Your goal, to serve as an instrument for the apocalypse to wipe out an irredeemable world, hasn’t changed. You’ve just been convinced that your power isn’t needed right now.” With a cocky grin, she added, “You’re just like I was when I met Lora. You’re learning to trust people. Never thought I’d see the day.”

Involuntarily, Malos’ eyes darted towards Noah’s sleeping form as Mythra spoke.

“Well I’ll be damned,” Nia said.

“Don’t get all sentimental on me,” Malos said.

“Still not sure how we’re gonna tell the rest of Alrest,” Rex said, “but at least we know we’re allies for the time bein’.”

“Malos,” Pyra gasped, “I just remembered! There’s something we should tell you!”

“What?” he answered.

Mythra looked him dead in the eyes as she told him, “Mikhail survived the Battle of the World Tree. He’s still alive.”

 

Tyrea

Tyrea watched the captured assassin through the one-way glass. The woman, a half-Homs, half-High Entia, was somehow still throwing a tantrum. A tempest of fury raged beneath Tyrea’s tranquil exterior. The howling winds battered the tendons in her headwings and bolts of lightning attempted to shock away her expression of calm. Only decades of training to be silent, unnoticed, and disciplined maintained her facade. 

This overgrown brat had tried to kill Melia. More than that, she hadn’t even had the decency to do it well! Tyrea was grateful for her Empress’ safety and survival, of course, but given her own background in the profession, the attempted hit peeved her to no end. 

It was sloppy. Careless. Downright unprofessional. If you are going to go for a ranged assassination, the first hit has to be fatal, no questions. That poison, potent as it was, still left time for the situation to be salvaged. She didn’t even wait until the Empress was alone! The attack occurred when there was only one possible direction the shot could have came from. Even without the tip from Noah, we would have found her in no time at all. 

The Ouroboros members had informed her that this woman had been Consul H in Aionios. Knowing Moebius' designations always used the first letter of the Moebius in question’s first name, Tyrea had asked Shulk to run a search for prominent citizens of Keves. She brought up the results of his search on her Iris. 

Hycis Caithana. Age 19. Daughter of the Minister of Commerce, Jeardra Caithana. This complicated matters. Her mother was a prominent political figure in Keves. Her mother has been nothing but loyal to the royal family for decades. The Bionite order never bothered infiltrating them because they had Homs blood. Minister Caithana is well known for her generosity and kindness. Unless she has kept up an immaculate front for half a century, I find it hard to believe she ordered the hit. The Minister of Commerce is the last in the line of succession too, so the assassination  doesn’t benefit her. I need more information. 

Tyrea walked into the interrogation room, as Hycis struggled against her bonds, futilely attempting to summon ether to attack the Empress’ Shadow. “Cease your pointless struggle,” she commanded. “All you are doing is bruising your wrists.” Knowing she had read the brat her rights earlier, Tyrea got straight down to business. “Hycis Caithana, charged with attempted assassination, conspiracy against the crown, theft of military technology, resisting arrest, attempted murder of Master Engineer Shulk Ortiz, Fiora Ortiz, Noah Leater, Eunie Miraneiros, Lanz Nazcheck, and Ashera Ortiz.” Tyrea crossed her arms as she asked, “Who put you up to this?” In her mind, she added, Since you’re obviously too stupid to be working alone and steal Ferron units.

“You’ll know soon enough,” Hycia taunted. “When the proper order of things is restored.”

She doesn’t know. I can see it in her face. Tyrea grew frustrated. They knew she couldn’t keep quiet, so they never revealed themselves. 

The young woman continued, “Why you continue to back that blood traitor is beyond me. She accepts those rust rats into our Empire, sullying our future!”

Though the slur bothered Thyrea, she knew the girl wouldn’t correct her speech. “Your use of such language only serves to demonstrate your naïveté and closed-mindedness.” But it does give me a hint as to who you’re working for. Yet Gael’gar died nearly nineteen years ago. After he bombed Teelan’s lab, Melia told me he committed suicide. If he’s been alive all this time, why wait until now to strike? Tyrea stood up and left the room. She hurried to confer with Melia about this disturbing potential development. If her suspicions were correct, she had a feeling Teelan may end up a target. That was something she simply couldn’t abide. He was like the little brother she’d never had. Personal feelings aside, his research was so close to fruition. She wouldn’t let that go to waste. 

 

Sena

Sena awoke to the smell of Addam’s Supercakes wafting into the bedroom. Miyabi remained fast asleep on Sena’s stomach, but Mimi had apparently woken up earlier, as she was no longer asleep on Sena’s arm, like she had been when the trio passed out the night before. Instead, Mio was seated quietly at her desk, diary in hand. Her ears perked up in response to Sena’s changed breathing, and she turned to smile at her. 

Sena, however, had a dilemma on her hands. Or rather, her stomach. There’s no way I can move without waking Miyabi! But that breakfast smells sooooooo good! This was one of the problems with being as warm as Sena was; you were the perfect pillow. Sorry Miyabi, Auntie Pyra’s cooking is too good to miss.

Gently nudging Miyabi, Sena tried to wake the sleeping girl. Much to her shock and dismay, Miyabi actually nestled in more! “Miyabi,” Sena whispered, still trying to be gentle, “it’s almost time for breakfast. You need to get up.” The Off-Seer didn’t move even a centri in response. Sena called out, “Mimi! I’m a bit stuck.”

Mio looked over and stifled a giggle. “Miyabi has always been a heavy sleeper,” she explained. “But I know a trick to waking her up.” She brought her flute to her lips and blew in as hard as she could, playing random notes in quick succession, completely devoid of tempo or skill. It was, by far, one of the worst attempts at “music” Sena had ever heard. 

Miyabi bolted awake, annoyed expression already on her face. “Mio! Stop! I’m up, I’m up!” As the assault on their collective senses stopped, Miyabi sulked. “You know how much I hate that!”

“Sorry, Miyabi,” Mio replied, “But you left us no choice. You were fast asleep on poor Sena, and breakfast is nearly ready.”

“Sorry, Sena,” Miyabi said sleepily. “You were just so comfortable, I couldn’t help it.”

“Totally fine,” Sena replied. “Now, let’s go have some of Auntie Pyra’s cooking!”

---

“Thanks again for breakfast, Auntie Pyra!” Sena exclaimed as she cleared her place, stomach full of the delightful Tornan treat. 

“Seriously, Mum. Top notch as always!” Mio added. 

“Thank you!” came from Miyabi as well. 

“You’re all very welcome,” Auntie Pyra said. “I’m just glad I get to make home-cooked meals for you all after you spent so long on war-fronts.”

As the assembly line of dishes moved along, Sena turned to Auntie Pyra and asked, “Auntie?”

“Yes, Sena?”

“Do you know where Mom and Momma are this morning? I wanted to talk with them about something.”

Auntie replied, “I believe Mòrag and Brighid went back to their guest chambers to make a few calls.”

Sena nodded. “Thanks. I’ll go talk to them once I finish helping with the dishes.” Mio and Auntie began humming a regal-sounding tune Sena didn’t recognize, and the plates continued on their merry way. 

---

Sena reached her moms’ bedroom just as they exited.

“Good morning, Sena,” Mom greeted her.

“How did you sleep, Firecracker?” Momma asked.

“We didn’t fall asleep until later,” Sena admitted, though neither of her moms seemed surprised by this. “We got to talking, and before I knew it, it was way too late.”

“We’re glad you had a good time with your friends,” Momma said as she fixed Sena’s hair absentmindedly. 

“Praxis and Theory send their regards,” Mom added. 

“Is that who you were calling?”

“Yes,” Momma answered. “We thought it wise to ensure your Mom had a full suite of Blades in case more Fogbeast incidents occurred.”

Sena nodded before she spoke again. “I actually wanted to talk to you both for a little bit. Do you mind if we use your bedroom? I kinda want a bit of privacy.”

“Certainly, Sena,” Mom answered as the Ladairs made their way back inside the guest bedroom. Her moms sat side by side on the bed, and gestured for Sena to sit between them. “Now, tell us, Firecracker, what’s on your mind?”

I can’t believe it’s been five thousand years since we’ve had a family chat like this. As she pushed the temporal gulf of Aionios aside, Sena took a deep breath and started trying to explain what was bothering her. “So I was talking with Miyabi and Mimi last night. We were talking about their performance and simple things we wanted to do now that we were back in Alrest again.” 

Momma smiled as she asked, “What was your answer?”

“I really just wanted to have that evening out with both of you,” Sena admitted. She laughed nervously and put her hand behind her head. “And I kinda sorta had an anxiety attack thinking about not wanting to lose everyone.” Momma grabbed her hand as Mom pulled her closer, worry clear as day on her face, at least to someone that knew her as well as Sena did. 

“I’m okay now,” Sena explained, “but I’m not good at being on the sidelines while I worry. I manage my anxiety better by helping out where I can. Do you know any way I can help out?” A smile ever so slightly spread on Mom’s face. Sena tilted her head to the side. 

“I’m simply marveling at your maturity, Sena,” Mom explained. “For you, you’ve had so long to blossom into the young woman you’ve become inside, you probably don’t even notice the difference. For Brighid and I, it’s been a mere five days.”

“It’s a remarkable thing to behold, Firecracker,” Momma agreed. Sena glowed with warmth as her moms complimented her. “The mercenaries almost certainly need a hand with something,” Momma suggested. “I’m sure Yew and Zuo would be happy for an extra set of helping hands.”

“Good idea, Momma! You know, I wonder if they need help in the kitchen?” Sena wondered. At her mothers’ confused looks, she added, “I’ve been told I make a mean onigiri!”

“I look forward to sampling it,” Mom said. “I admit, I’ve never been particularly adept in the kitchen.”

Sena laughed, “If you spend enough time with Manana, you have to pick up on a few tricks.” As the Ladairs laughed, Sena added, “Let me know when Praxis and Theory get here, please! I haven’t seen them in forever.”

 

Dunban

The sun had barely crept over the horizon as Dunban thrust forward at his wife while she adeptly parried his blade. “I just don’t know what to do, Carmen,” he admitted as he dodged his wife’s spear point, although more narrowly than usual. “Ashera was always rebellious, but ever since she received her memories back, our dynamic has completely shifted.”

Carmen nodded as the couple circled each other, probing for openings in their respective defenses. “I know what you mean,” she agreed as she caught the tip of his sword and drove it off line. “She spoke to me like my Defence Force buddies. She’s never snuck out like that before either.” Again, Dunban was later with his dodge than usual, his footwork sloppy. 

“Aionios has created this gap between us,” Dunban admitted as he pressed a furious offense. “While I respect and understand the hardship of war, I don’t want to lose the relationship we had pre-Aionios.” His wife continually blocked his assault, but she was running out of room. She had allowed him to close the gap, no longer able to make full use of her weapon’s reach. “Yet I fear if I act too hastily or cling too hard, I will only succeed in driving her away.”

“Your fear clouds your judgement, o husband of mine,” Carmen replied as she slipped his guard and scored a point. “You’re off your game. I don’t even feel like I earned that win.” The couple walked to sit on the bench outside the training ring and rehydrate. “Have you tried telling Ashera what you just told me?” Dunban shook his head. “Why not try having a good, old-fashioned Heart-to-Heart? Aionios or no, she’s still our daughter. And Ashera loves her Daddy, of that I’m certain.”

“Thank you, Carmen. You’ve offered me some much-needed clarity,” Dunban said. “I’ll take her on a trip to the Shoulder and have a talk at Kallien’s Lighthouse.”

---

“So, Daddy Dearest,” Ashera asked, “why did you bring me to the top of this lighthouse? I highly doubt it was just for the stunning view.”

“You see right through me,” Dunban admitted. “I’ve always found places like this are the best for important conversations. They help to put things in perspective.”

“Important conversations?” Ashera asked with an eyebrow raised. “If you’re here to give me the talk, old man, spare me. I learned plenty in Aionios.”

“Nothing like that, I assure you,” Dunban replied. There were few things Dunban wanted to discuss less with his daughter than her sexual escapades in Aionios. “I merely wanted to have a conversation about recent events as father and daughter.”

“Sure,” she agreed. “You’ll have to forgive me if you want to talk about anything more than four days ago. Everything pre-Aionios, I’m a bit fuzzy on the details.”

“So, your life before the Endless Now is like a distant dream to you then?”

“Not quite. I still remember people, the relationships in my life. I know you, mom, and our family. I remember that I regularly spar with Ethel,” Ashera clarified. “It’s the details that are fuzzy. I’ve completely forgotten everyone’s birthdays, for instance, or the names of streets and shops in Colony 9. Is it the same for you?”

“Quite the opposite, actually,” Dunban answered. “There was so little activity with Lucky Seven for millennia, that it is Aionios that feels like a distant dream to me now.” He paused for a moment to gaze out on the majesty of the Shoulder before continuing. “I know Ashera Ortiz very well,” Dunban said. “Yet I feel I know very little about the woman she’s become. Please, tell me of Ashera, the Undying Blade.”

Ashera smiled. “I did grow up hearing mom and your war stories. I suppose it’s only natural you’d want to hear mine as well. Strap in, Dad, because it’s a wild ride.”

---

“I think that about catches us up to when I met Ouroboros,” Ashera announced. “I skipped over the boring battles. Trust me, there were plenty.”

Dunban was at a loss for words. Her life was nothing but war, and she couldn’t even trust those closest to her. He thought back to his own days in the Defence Force, Mumkhar and Dickson at his side. Together they had fought back the Mechon again and again. Even if jealousy would eventually consume and destroy Mumkhar, and Dickson had always had ulterior motives, Dunban still valued the companionship they had brought him. It had kept him sane. “With Consul R above you, Agnus against you, and Clad, Easel, and Zoren beneath you,” Dunban said, “I’m honestly amazed there is still so much of the daughter I know.”

Ashera laughed, “Really, the Three Ravens weren’t all that bad. I mean sure, each of them tried to kill me about a thousand times spread over different lifetimes, but when it came to the safety of Colony 11, they were second only to me with their combat prowess and tactical wit. If there was one thing they hated more than me, it was losing.” His daughter paused, her expression changing to one of wistful longing. “Ready to hear about my adventures with Eunie and the other illustrious Ouroboros?”

As Dunban nodded, he couldn’t help but notice she had singled Eunie out. I wonder why?

---

“Then, next thing I knew, I was screaming on the balcony of Aunt Fiora’s guest villa,” Ashera finished. “And before you ask, no, my neck wound hasn’t bothered me since.”

That was not what was on Dunban’s mind, however. She’s in love with her. Not entirely surprising, if he was honest. She reached out when no one else would, powered through that tough facade to the vulnerable woman beneath it.  “I’m glad. I hate to think of you enduring constant pain.” From what I understand, Eunie and Taion are quite close as well. I hope Ashera doesn’t get herself hurt. 

“So, where does that leave us?” Ashera inquired. “Surely you don’t still see me as merely your little girl at this point?”

“No, even your obstinate old man can see you’ve grown up, at least mentally,” Dunban acquiesced. “And you performed admirably with apprehending Melia’s assassin last night. So, despite breaking your grounding earlier in the day for unrelated reasons, I admit it seems silly of me to continue parenting you as if you were still twelve years old.” Dunban smiled at the shock on Ashera’s face. “I discussed it with your mother. You are no longer grounded. We still expect respect as your parents, but provided you do not do anything inappropriate for your physical age, we’re willing to treat you as an adult.”

“You’re serious?” Ashera asked. When Dunban nodded, Ashera grinned. “Then I have a favor to ask, not as your daughter, but as the Commander of Colony 11: I want a duel with the Hero of the Homs, as equals.”

“I humbly accept. I won’t go easy on you, you know.”

“I’m counting on it,” Ashera responded. “I’ve been thinking about it since I got my memories back.”

Dunban inquired, “Then why did you sneak out yesterday, instead of merely duelling me?”

“You would have been duelling me out of obligation, and that’s no fun,” Ashera clarified. “I wanted to fight you at your best, not as a dad just doing his job. Fights like that bore me, so I wasn’t interested. Now that I know you respect me as a proper warrior, I can’t wait!”

“A warrior to the core, then,” Dunban noted, “just don’t get so excited you lose focus on the moment. Stay sharp, stay focused.”

“Save your lectures for after the battle, Daddy,” Ashera teased, “and that’s only if you actually manage to beat me.”

“Bold words, but I know better than to mistake your experience for arrogance,” Dunban noted, “I shall see you on the practice field at sundown, Ashera.”

 

Rex

Rex stood at the harbor of Agnus Castle, waving to Sena as she passed. Gramps was due to arrive this morning, and Rex found himself in the all-too-familiar position of desperately needing the old Titan’s advice. Malos’ reawakening weighed heavily on his mind. His thoughts were continually drawn to the aftermath of the event that redefined his life twenty years ago, when he awoke Pyra and agreed to take her to Elysium. The panic that set in among the world’s governments, the mad scramble to either find or destroy the Aegis and her power. That had been the nations’ response to Pyra, who had not actively attempted to destroy the world in the past. Rex shuddered to think of how they would respond to Malos.

Despite himself, Rex began to prepare for war. We have the mercenaries, and the backing of Mor Ardain and Tantal. Our standing army has plenty of active duty soldiers, a healthy amount of Drivers and Blades, as well as Flesh- and Blade-Eaters. And if it should come to it, we have Siren. The Artifice was nowhere near what it had once been, not with the Conduit gone, but wherever that strange object had absconded to, some of its power still leaked through. It was enough for Mythra to store it up over time, and operate Siren for short periods without issue, but nowhere near enough for Siren to end a global conflict single-handedly like it could have when the Conduit was still in Alrest.

We have ample resources when it comes to food, fresh water, and ether energy. Our position as a peninsula makes it hard to attack by land. Damn, I hate thinking about this. The soldiers of Aionios deserve better than to come home to another war. A dark thought crossed Rex’s mind. Should we let Aionios veterans serve if they want to? Should we restrict it to those who are of age? We’d be mad, militarily speaking, to pass up on soldiers with millennia of practical combat experience. The majority of them would still be children, though. And it doesn’t matter the specifics, child soldiers don’t sit right with me. If we do enforce an age limit, what about Blades that served in Aionios? It could be seen as exploitation of their power, even if it was volunteer-based. Shulk and Rex had used ex-Kevesi and Agnian soldiers in the Liberators, was it really so different here? Was he getting ahead of himself, preparing for a war that might not occur?

“Rex!” a familiar voice shouted, breaking the Master Driver’s internal monologue. “You seem troubled, dear boy. Troubled enough not to notice a Titan arriving on your shores.”

“You’ve got that right, Gramps,” Rex admitted. “But not so troubled I’m not gonna ask about your journey. How was the trip?”

“Fairly well, all things considered,” Gramps answered. The old Titan settled into the ocean with a sigh. “Ah. Much better. Salt water does wonders for these old joints.” Rex sat down on the docks by Azurda’s head as Gramps added, “Though I do find it ironic that you were in Leftheria one of the few days I was away from it.”

“I’d been meaning to ask, where were you that day?” Rex inquired.

“I had a date with Enossa, and she rather fancied a flight above the Ardanian countryside.”

“How are you two getting on?” Rex asked.

“Well enough,” Azurda replied, blushing profusely.

“Let’s leave it at that,” Rex added quickly. “Hey, Gramps? Mind if I ask you for some advice?”

“Of course not, Rex,” Azurda answered. “But I am surprised you would want advice from someone four and a half thousand years your junior.”

“I wasn’t really out in the world getting much experience for the majority of Aionios,” Rex defended himself. “It was a lot closer to Pyra’s five hundred year nap than your experience.”

“I am only teasing, Rex,” Gramps admitted. “What is it that troubles you?”

Grateful that Azurda was already seated, Rex ensured they were alone before he spoke, “Noah, Mio’s Ouroboros partner, accidentally awakened Malos.”

Azurda’s eyes grew wider than Rex’s head. “Malos?!?” he whispered in surprise. “How is that possible? I watched Malos die with my own eyes!”

“It’s something to do with Origin and Aionios,” Rex replied. “The incarnation of Noah that became Moebius N, he had a special Blade of Origin Metal. That metal housed the soul of Malos. No one’s quite sure how. When Noah summoned N’s sword, it collapsed to become Logos’ Core Crystal.”

“And with the two having worked together for millennia,” Gramps finished, “Malos’ awakening was nearly guaranteed.”

“So now, the boy that, more likely than not, is going to be my son-in-law, is Malos’ Driver,” Rex sighed. “That’s not even the part I’m worried about, honestly. Noah’s got a good heart; if anyone can show Malos hope, it’s him.”

Azurda nodded, “It’s the other nations that plague your mind, right? How they’ll respond to the greatest threat Alrest has ever faced returning.”

“Bingo,” Rex said. “We’ve spoken with him, Gramps. And I genuinely think he’s not a threat. He’s forged a genuine connection with Noah.”

“You are placing a lot of faith in this young man,” Gramps noted.

“He’s more than earned it, taking down Moebius.”

“Then what is it that troubles you, Rex?” Azurda asked again.

“While Pyra, Mythra, Nia, and I plan to vouch for him when we announce his return,” Rex explained, “I’m not convinced it’s going to be enough for the other nations. Plenty of people lost loved ones to Malos’ raids twenty years ago. That resentment and mistrust isn’t going to go away.”

“Right you are,” Azurda confirmed. 

“I’m worried we might be plunging all of Alrest into war over Origin,” Rex confessed. “If the other nations discover that Malos is back, but he’s in the other world, it’s not unthinkable that they may attempt to seize or destroy Origin to prevent reunification at any cost.”

“You’ve never been afraid to fight for what you believe is right, Rex,” Gramps complimented him. “I find it to be one of your most admirable qualities. So why the hesitation now? I’m not saying you should start a war, mind you, I am just curious.”

“It’s because it wouldn’t just be us fighting this time, Gramps,” Rex clarified. “We’d be calling Agnian soldiers and our allies to lay down their lives for this. I’ve no doubt we can win, but the division?” Rex shook his head. “Miyabi, one of Mio’s best friends, is Iona’s Blade. And Uraya is one of our most likely enemies if it comes to war. That story would be repeated a thousand times on both sides. That’s before factoring the Aionian veterans into everything. The thought of those kiddos fighting again, having to strike down former allies before their bodies even hit puberty in this world, it makes me physically sick.”

“I think you are forgetting something important, Rex,” Gramps lectured. “You and your spouses believe the reunification of the worlds is critically important, correct?” Rex nodded. “The Rex I know would never simply sit idly by and allow Origin to be impeded.”

A scene from two decades prior echoed in Rex’s mind. Olethro Ruins, still undamaged, serves as the backdrop. Malos closes in on Vandham, who attempts to blast him back with the wind ether energy coursing through his body, desperately trying to buy time for Rex and his friends to escape an unwinnable fight. Malos casually bats Vandham’s attack aside. Knowing he was beaten, Vandham chooses to use his final moments to impart one last piece of wisdom. Just go, Rex! Remember to fight your war! 

As Vandham’s dying words resonated in Rex’s mind, the flame of his resolve was reignited. “Thanks, Gramps. I’m gonna do everything in my power to make sure it doesn’t come to war,” Rex said, “but if it does, then I’ll fight for what I believe in. Just like I’ve always done.” Gramps nodded as Rex stood up. “I’ve got to talk to my wives now, make sure everyone is on the same page.”

“I’ll fly up to the courtyard later and say my hellos,” Azurda said, “I need to rest for a bit longer after my flight.”

“Rest up, Gramps,” Rex reassured the old Titan as he began to make his way back to Agnus Castle.

 

Nia

“So we’re in agreement, then?” Nia asked her spouses. “We’re prepared to go to war to defend Origin?” Her questions were greeted by solemn nods.

“At least most nations weren’t actively preparing for war,” Mythra noted. “It will take time for them to mobilize, if they do decide to attack.”

“I won’t let anything stand in the way of reuniting our worlds, and our family with their loved ones from Bionis,” Pyra affirmed. “And I won’t let A suffer in Origin alone.”

“Still not sure if I feel good about allowing Aionios veterans who are underage to volunteer, if it comes to it,” Rex admitted. 

“Trust me, Rex,” Nia reassured him, “we wouldn’t be able to stop them if we tried.”

“Right,” Rex agreed. “I guess all that’s left is the announcement itself.”

Nia held tightly to Pyra and Mythra’s hands as she took a deep breath to calm herself. We’re going to get through this. We have to. Not just for our sake, but for Keves, the City, and everyone that cared about someone in Aionios. She sat up in her throne and pulled up the broadcasting interface connected to the Iris Network. It’s time. 

 

Raqura

Raqura sat at her desk, the mountains of paperwork long forgotten. Have the Agnians lost their damn minds?!? I legitimately had concerns about logistical issues with Reunification before, but this? This?!? It’s mad. She took a breath to calm herself. She was a queen. Now, of all times, she needed a level head. We have to act quickly. Under no circumstances can we allow Malos back into the world. She pressed a button on her desk to speak with her secretary. “Tell Phillive I need him in my office as soon as possible. This trumps anything he’s doing, make sure he understands that.” She needed her head general to prepare for another Aegis War . 

That won’t be enough to stop Origin in time. It’s time to call in favors with the other houses, and use their mercenary bands. I have to stop this, no matter the cost. 

 

Niall

“Tegwen, what am I going to do?” Niall asked his wife as she breastfed their daughter. “The Conservative faction in the Senate is going to call for war with Agnus. They’ve been waiting for an opportunity to invade for decades.”

“Ow!” Tegwen yelped, “Easy with the fangs there, Aerona,” she chided their daughter, “Momma’s not your teething ring.” She turned her head to Niall before responding, “They won’t be able to declare war without your approval.” She raised Aerona to be burped, then set her in her bassinet, speaking in baby talk, “And even mean, old, racist Senator Darragh wouldn’t dare commit treason against your big, strong Daddy, would he Aerona?” The Gormotti baby girl giggled at her Mom’s silly voice and brought a smile to Niall’s face. 

As his wife put her shirt back on, Niall had to admit to himself that she was right. Still, Roderich had betrayed him all those years ago in Temperantia. It was difficult for Niall to fully quiet his fears. I will do what I must to protect our fragile peace, he thought, his eyes trained on his family. For their sake, I must succeed.

 

Niranira

The merchant’s floor of Argentum was even more bustling than usual. Malos’ return was the only topic of conversation. Some Nopon afraid. Some strangely indifferent. Others still smell the profits of war. Niranira sighed. They shortsighted, he thought, there not much actual assets to be gained from war now. Most nations still in red from Origin, they have nothing to pay with.

The Reunification, on the other hand, was a different story. Niranira never seen such business opportunity in whole of life. Aside from Keves as a new market, there was the potential offered by the world of Bionis as well. New resources to discover and combine. Fusion of cultural touchstones. New needs to meet with unified world, new trade agreements to be signed. 

This was Argentum’s new direction, he was sure of it. This investment Niranira making. Risky, yes, but much profit on other side. Well worth taking. He’d need to prepare his auditors soon. Opportunities like this were prime chances for villainpon like Bana to amass wealth and influence. Niranira have much work to do. 

 

Juniper

Juniper, Irma, and Fiona sat at the Vargel Tavern in shock. Despite not being alive for the Second Aegis War, they were all familiar with its events to some extent. Which is what made Nia and her family’s endorsement all the more confusing. 

“What do we do now?” Irma asked.

“What can we do, really?” Juniper replied.

“I think we should trust Mi-mo’s parents,” Fiona said. “They know him better than anyone. If they say Malos is a changed man, we should trust them.”

A thought occurred to Juniper. “Hold on. If I remember my history correctly, didn’t Headmaster Mikhail used to be a part of Torna?” Irma nodded. “Then he would know Malos too, right?”

“You’re right!” Fiona exclaimed. “He’s got to be overjoyed that his friend is back!”

“Speaking of friends,” Irma asked, “shouldn’t we get going towards the HQ?”

“Right you are,” Juniper replied. “We wouldn’t want to be late meeting Orimes, Aelen, and Marigold.”

“Oh, I’m so excited!”

 

Teach

Teach looked over the pile of rubble from where his forces had breached Li Garte Prison as he contemplated Queen Nia’s announcement of Malos’ return. 

“What are you thinking about, my Master?” Clotho asked him. Lachesis and Atropos set down their utensils to listen. 

“I was pondering the similarities,” he said, “between Malos’ story and my own.” His Blades seemed confused, so he elaborated. “Think of us like Thanazalea flowers. We were both imbued with a deadly toxin from the moment we were created, designed to protect us from those that mean to do us harm. Had we been left undisturbed, that toxin poses no threat.” The trio of Blades nodded along.

“But, if someone were to recognize our poison, and had dangerous ambitions, they could concentrate it enough to create Thanatitan. It wouldn’t matter to this person if the flowers wanted to be used in such a manner, all that mattered was the result. If the flowers, whose poison was only meant for self-defense, were to realize the intentions of the ambitious man, if they could act, do you think they would go along with their natural gift being exploited willingly?”

“I should think not,” Atropos confidently declared.

“Ah, but what if the flowers had been planted and cultivated by the ambitious man?” Teach asked. “If he had an influence over the very foundations of their identity, their morals, and their ideals? Perhaps, the flowers might even be willing participants in the man’s plan, despite it destroying them.”

“Without someone to reveal the man’s influence on them,” Lachesis reasoned, “they would never think to fight back at the abuse of their power.”

Teach smiled. “Absolutely correct, Lachesis.” He paused a moment to look up at Origin. “I wonder how my fellow flower thinks of our previous gardener?”

 

Cammuravi

Cammuravi sat with his Master at a table outside of Coedwig Inn, attempting to process the news of Malos’ return. The pair stared up at Agnus Castle, bathed in the cool morning light. The cafe around them was abuzz with the talk of Malos’ return. 

“I admit,” Master Rayon spoke, breaking the stunned silence between them, “this was certainly not what I expected to hear over my Gormotti Honeytea this morning.” After taking a sip of said tea, he continued, “It makes one reconsider our immediate plans to return to Uraya, wouldn’t you say?”

Cammuravi nodded. “Indeed. It would seem we are in agreement then. Origin will need defending,” he added solemnly. “I wish I could say I believed peace and understanding would prevail,” Cammuravi stated, “yet given Malos’ reputation, I cannot see a path forward from the nations of Alrest not tainted by fear, even with Queen Nia and her family’s endorsement.”

“The Agnian Military is formidable,” Master Rayon added, “and from the tales you have told me, Origin is quite the capable military force in its own right.” He quickly covered his mouth as another hacking coughing fit wracked his body. “Pardon me, Cammuravi. Age is a wily opponent. Where was I? Ah. Right. Despite all of that, I do not think the Agnians would mind a capable pair of warriors at their side.” Master Rayon chuckled, “Besides, it’s not like it would be your first time serving under Queen Nia!”

“Right you are, my Master,” Cammuravi replied. “One could argue that due to Aionios, those of us that served are more Agnian than any of us are associated with our home nations.”

“To treason, then,” Master Rayon raised his tea. 

“To defending innocent life,” Cammuravi clinked his tea. And to reuniting with Ethel , he thought. 

 

Isurd

Isurd sat with his arm around Nimue, their Drivers seated across from them, as they all stared out over the Torigoth Flower Patch. “Just one surprise after another this week, huh?” Master Nicc said. “First Aionios, then Malos’ return.”

“Who do you reckon his Driver is?” Jelved asked. “I mean, it’s not like just anyone can stumble on an Aegis Core.”

“Do you think it’s someone we met in Aionios, Isurd?” Nimue asked him. 

“That’s a very real possibility,” Isurd acknowledged. “I’m willing to rule out Queen Melia. She’s been bedridden and recovering, so I doubt she’d have the chance to encounter Malos’ Core.”

“Either way, Queen Nia was wise to keep the identity of the Driver a secret,” Nimue commented. 

“True,” Nicc agreed. “They’d have a huge target on their back.”

“It does make ya wonder,” Jelved added, “how there was even a Core Crystal to resonate with in the first place. According to our Leader, he watched Malos die with his own eyes, and Rex has never been a liar.”

“We may get the opportunity to ask them ourselves,” Nicc replied, “what with Isurd and Nimue’s newfound connections to the Agnian Royal Family.”

“I hope Mio and Sena are taking the news well,” Nimue mused. “Malos’ actions really affected their families.”

Isurd laughed, “I’m sure they will be fine, my love. As long as we have each other to lean on,” he said as he held Nimue close, “we have nothing to fear.”

 

Zeke

Zeke paced restlessly in front of Pandoria, who was seated on their bed in their guest quarters, as he tried to process the news. Mio’s boyfriend awakened Malos, huh? Memories of clashing with the Aegis flashed through Zeke’s mind. There was the fight at Balquor’s Ruins in the Cliffs of Morytha, followed shortly by their battle with Malos and Jin at Gotrock Oracle Ruins. Their party had nearly lost their lives, and would have, if not for Rex awakening Pneuma’s power when he had. Finally, there had been Aion. Even the brave Thunderbolt Zeke trembled at the memory of the world-ending Artfice’s might. 

“My King?” Pandy asked him.

“Sorry about that, Pandy,” Zeke replied, “got lost in thought.”

“Really?” she fake gasped. “That’s unusual for you. Be careful you don’t hurt yourself.”

“Oi! Bad wife! That was just plain mean!” Zeke retorted, not really angry, but playing along, “I know you use humor to deal with stress, Pandy, but that was unnecessary.”

“Sorry, Zeke,” Pandoria apologized. “I’m nervous about Malos.”

“Of bloody course you are!” Zeke exclaimed. “He’s only the toughest bloody bastard we’ve ever fought!” Zeke stopped his pacing to sit down next to his wife. “I had to unleash the Eye of Shining Justice on him and everything.” He grasped Pandy’s hand as he continued, “But Rex, Nia, Pyra, and Mythra are vouching for him. If anyone understands just how dangerous Malos truly is, it’s those four.”

Pandoria nodded. “You’re right,” she admitted. “Even if I don’t know Noah, I should trust our friends.”

“Not to mention Noah saved the bloody worlds with his friends like we did back in the day,” Zeke added. “I’m pretty sure only Rex would have been another proper Driver for Malos.” Zeke pondered for a moment, “Although I imagine resonating with more than one Trinity Processor Core is probably bad for your health.”

Pandoria laughed. “Careful, my King. You’ll give Adenine ideas for experiments, talking like that.”

“You know, my advisors always give me crap about her research budget,” Zeke complained, “but I’ve never seen any of them complaining when her experiments produce results.”

There was a knock on the bedroom door, which Zeke reluctantly separated himself from Pandoria to answer. A Gormotti man awaited him on the other side. “Ah, Master Zeke,” the man said, “so sorry to disturb you, but I come bearing news.”

“Well, lay it on me, then,” Zeke instructed. 

“Lady Zenobia has arrived, and is waiting for you in the courtyard,” the man informed him. “Please greet her at your earliest convenience, preferably before she challenges Lady Mythra to another duel.”

 

Brighid

It was generally quite difficult to scare the Jewel of Mor Ardain. Malos, however, was one thing that could always do the job. More than fear, however, was the anger he elicited. Based on her diary, various historical accounts, and Mythra’s own telling of the events of the Aegis War, Malos had been the one to end Emperor Hugo’s life, albeit not directly. Brighid had not had much time with the young emperor, but the tone in her diary indicated that both she and Aegeon had been quite fond of him. He had even been responsible for creating the Azure fighting form that eventually evolved into how she fought alongside Lady Mòrag.

She had written a single entry detailing her encounter with Malos during the Aegis War. The Raid of Auresco. She had read that entry many, many times in this incarnation alone, to the point where she had it memorized. 

Fatigue nips at my heels as I write this, for today I was pushed to my very limits. The Tornan King, in a shocking move, declared Addam his heir, yet such a monumental decision seems utterly inconsequential in the face of the rest of the day’s events. The Aegis War has come to the Tornan Capital. Auresco was beset by powerful autonomous war machines, “Gargoyles” according to the simpleton, far beyond the weaponry of any nation on Alrest. 

His Majesty nobly joined the mercenary Miss Lora and newly minted Crown Prince Addam in their defense of the capital. Even with Miss Haze’s healing wind at our backs, it was only by working as a unit that we pulled through. Aegeon and I must redouble our training if we are to defend the interests of Mor Ardain from the Aegis Malos. 

Our group engaged Malos himself in the garden at the palace. There is no doubting the Aegis’ raw strength. His weapon is unlike any I have ever encountered; it is a strange longsword with a central ring containing a multitude of symbols. Each symbol appears associated with a devastating Art of some kind. The simpleton proved her worth to some degree, managing to successfully distract Malos with her abrasive personality. Ironically, if she were not so frail, she has the makings of a decent Tank-type Blade, since she seems to exist only to thrust herself into the center of attention.

Disturbingly, Malos seemed to be holding back against us today. The man’s arrogance makes even the simpleton look humble. He’s absolutely mad. Regardless of the Praetoreum’s position, I find it impossible to believe either Aegis is the Architect’s word made flesh. He possesses no honor at all, leaving our battle halfway through and setting another Gargoyle on us. 

Unfortunately, we were unsuccessful in preventing the Tornan Titan’s Seal from falling into Malos’ hands. The titan’s form changed into that of a drake, confirming an entry from my early diary to be true. Malos prepares to end Torna in a fiery death, yet he waits for his “partner” to begin doing so. I cannot fathom why the Architect would grant such world-ending power and madness to the Aegis, but I am grateful for his arrogance. It affords us another chance to end this threat, and we will not be caught unprepared this time. 

That was her last entry detailing Malos during the Aegis War. She did not need her diary to recount her experiences with him in this life, though she had recorded her experiences just the same. Her future self would thank her. Lady Mòrag and herself had not been present for Mythra’s reawakening at Olethro Ruins, but she remembered her encounters with Malos all too well. She remembered her back to the wall at Gotrock Oracle Ruins, pouring everything she had into shielding Lady Mòrag from Malos’ advance. She’d had nothing left, not after facing him and Jin for so long. She remembered thinking Jin, I will never forgive you for this. You sided with the man who took Emperor Hugo from me, you’ve slaughtered countless Ardanian soldiers, killed Haze, and now you stand idly by as Malos takes Lady Mòrag away from me! It had been in that moment that Pneuma had awakened, definitively turning the tides. 

Brighid felt Lady Mòrag’s hand on her back, and it brought her back to the present. “You’ve been awfully quiet, given the news,” she commented. “Care to unburden your mind?”

In the safety of their chambers, Brighid leaned into Lady Mòrag’s comforting embrace. “Simply revisiting some past feelings. Malos’ return has stirred up old memories. Complicated memories.”

“Jin,” her wife stated bluntly. “You do not have to speak on him if you do not want to. I know he is a difficult subject for you.”

Brighid shook her head. “No, I need to work through this. If Origin needs defending, I cannot afford to be distracted.” She sighed. “Do you remember Morytha?”

“It’s a locale I’m not likely to forget,” Lady Mòrag replied. 

“Jin explained why he turned, why he sided with Malos,” Brighid recounted. “I never forgave him, nor do I feel I should. He turned into a monster, no better than the one he sought to destroy, even if he did return to his senses somewhat in the end.” She sighed. “I seem to have difficulty accepting that people can change. When I discovered Jin had sided with Malos, I refused to believe it. Yet his actions alone were more than enough proof of his change of heart. I find myself doubting Malos’ change of heart now, despite Nia’s declaration of his lack of malevolent intent.”

Lady Mòrag nodded. “The lack of an attack on Keves speaks volumes,” she argued. “The Malos I remember would not have stayed his weapon against Shulk and Fiora, not even if Jin himself had intervened.”

“You’re right, of course,” Brighid admitted. “Nia told us herself that Noah is his new Driver.”

“Noah and Mio led Ouroboros to victory against Z. We can trust that his heart is in the right place,” Lady Mòrag said. “Sena trusts Ouroboros implicitly, and we can say the same for ourselves and Rex, Nia, Pyra, and Mythra. In dark times, it is our bonds, our training, and our discipline that will see us through.”

Brighid stood up and smoothed off her dress. “I hope that wherever Jin and Lady Lora are, they take comfort in knowing Malos is a changed man. While it may take time for me to fully believe it, the world will not wait for me to be ready as it continues turning.”

“Well put,” Lady Mòrag agreed. “Come, my wife, let us greet Praxis and Theory.”

 

Poppi

The command center on Origin was quiet. Only Masterpon and herself were here this early, and it was a good thing too. Poppi didn’t want anyone but Masterpon to see her so emotionally vulnerable. “Is it true, Masterpon?” her high-pitched voice asked. “Is Malos really back?”

Masterpon nodded. “It true. Noah wakey-wakey Malos.”

“Noah?” Poppi asked. Thousands of years of memories flashed through her head detailing her quiet observations of Aionios. Noah is complicated person. Ultimately good heart, though. Can Noah help guide Malos? Poppi had to admit her algorithms could not predict the outcome, something that bothered her greatly. Too many variable. Will have to place trust in friend Nia’s judgement. Poppi asked her Masterpon, “Are you nervous?”

“Of course Tora nervous!” he exclaimed. “Does not want to lose friends and Origin to Aegis rampage!”

“Poppi will not let happen,” she declared. “Will defend friends and Origin to last simulated breath!” Poppi hugged Masterpon, “Poppi will never, ever let anything bad happen to Masterpon.” Her voice broke a little as she added, “Masterpon extremely precious to Poppi. Would stand against a thousand Aions if meant it kept Masterpon safe!”

“Only if it also keep Poppi safe,” Masterpon corrected, “Poppi extremely precious to Masterpon too.”

“Nopon promise ritual?” Poppi asked. 

“Nopon promise ritual.” Masterpon agreed. They booped hands and the pact was sealed. “Others will be arriving soon,” Masterpon noted. 

“Roger, Roger, Masterpon!” Poppi acknowledged. “Please stand back for mode change sequence! Poppi going to try QT perspective for today.” A flash of ribbon later and Poppi stood as her teenage self. “Good morning, friends Adenine and KOS-MOS! Ready to save world?” Poppi asked enthusiastically.

 

Mikhail

Mikhail slowly stood up and went over to lock his bedroom door. Malos is alive. I’ll be damned. I thought Nia and I were all that was left of Torna. He returned to his bed, opened the nightstand, and removed a remote from the drawer’s false bottom. He pressed the button in the center, and slowly, the retractable wall panels they controlled revealed the paintings hidden beneath them. 

To his left were painted renditions of Torna, each in some way hinting at the people they had been. They were gifts from Mythra, as a way of bridging the gap between the two. The first was Akhos, smug grin on his face, pressing his glasses into place while Obrona perched over his left shoulder. Next to him was his lost love, Patroka, casually reclining on a chair, expression bored as could be. In the middle of the paintings was Jin, his Paragon of Torna form silhouetted by his Flesh Eater true form, solemn expression on his face. On his right was Malos, Monado in hand, cocky grin on his face, his other hand shrouded in the Aegis’ dark power. Finally, the portrait of himself, Infinity Fans drawn as he struck a flamboyant pose, jovial grin on his face. 

On the other wall was something Mikhail treasured more than anything else in his bedroom. Mythra had recreated the photo taken prior to the fall of Torna of the first family he had ever found, the one that had been taken in Hyber Village. Mikhail’s eyes lingered on Milton’s smiling face. 

His feelings about Malos had always been conflicted, and it was Milton’s face that really drove the point home. He had hated the world, and with good reason. He’d started life as a slave, only escaping from that situation because his slavers had been killed in a random looting attack during the Aegis War. He’s found a family, only for it to be cruelly ripped away from him by the Aegis’ battle on Torna. Hugo had died, taking Brighid and Aegeon with him. Milton had died in his arms after shielding him from an explosion caused by the warring Artifices. Addam had gone into hiding, and he hadn’t wanted to speak to Mythra, blaming her for his friend's death. Shortly after, Lora, Jin, and Haze would be taken from him on Spessia, followed swiftly by his abduction by the Praetorium for use in their horrific experiments. 

With centuries to reflect on the events, he understood that ultimately the Praetorium was responsible for most of the hardships in his youth, but the rest of the world had done little to combat their injustice either. So he had decided that Malos had had the right of it. Humanity was a cancer, and one day he would destroy them. It took nearly five hundred years before an opportunity presented itself. By pure chance he had been hiding out on Mor Ardain at the time, and recognized Jin in the streets. He’d been speaking to an informant about Flesh Eater rumors, something Mikhail had been pursuing himself. Once he realized it was not only Jin, but the Blade he knew, having never returned to his Core, Mikhail had been quick to join. 

Malos had been a different man with Torna. Gone was his sense of invincibility; the man was vulnerable and he knew it. Mikhail realized Malos was just as broken as the rest of them. They hadn’t spoken much about the Aegis War, but Mikhail worked tirelessly to bring Torna’s plans to fruition. And he’d succeeded. He’d used the Monoceros to topple Indol once and for all as Jin and Rex’s crew got the honor of killing the worm Amalthus. 

The most important painting, however, got a wall to itself. Mythra, with her perfect memory, had recreated the photo taken in Hyber Village of their impromptu family. Mikhail lingered on Milton’s face. There was a part of him that was still conflicted about teaming up with Malos, and his alliance with Mythra. They had taken the closest thing to a brother he’d ever had from him. Yet he knew both Aegises were vastly different people than who they’d been at the conclusion of the Aegis War.

I’m worrying about nothing. I should be getting the Monoceros ready. Origin is gonna need a strong defense. He concealed the paintings and made his way down to the docks to do some final prep before he departed for Agnus. 

 

Sena

Auntie Nia had made some sort of announcement, but Sena hadn’t heard it. Feeding an entire mercenary group took a lot of work, it turns out. She’d been elbow deep in onigiri ever since she’d arrived in the village. Every onigiri she created, Sena’s thoughts would drift to Segiri. I hope she’s okay. Mimi said she overheard Queen, she paused, correcting herself, Empress Melia saying she was hurt. I wonder what her real name is? I doubt her parents actually named her Segiri. She giggled to herself at the thought.

Out of the corner of her eye, she saw someone pull the head chef aside and whisper something. Huh. Wonder what that’s about. She turned her attention back to her work, but there was now a noticeable tension in the kitchen. Sena’s anxiety started to get the better of her. Did something happen with Origin? Her stomach turned at the thought. Okay, I have to know what’s going on. “I’ll be right back!” Sena called out as she went to a private spot in the village to watch Auntie Nia’s announcement, hoping beyond hope that there wasn’t a delay in reuniting the worlds. 

 

Alexandria

Alexandria had been caught by surprise with the news of Malos’ reawakening, and she hated surprises. She had been scrolling through news headlines for hours now, documenting each one in a massive collage, attempting to gauge the reaction of every nation on Alrest to the news. She let out a sigh of lament as she missed the glut of information the Collectopedia cards had provided her. Even more than that, she missed her friends from Iota. Together, they had been unstoppable. Now, even within the walls of Agnus Castle, surrounded by her family and their allies, she felt naked and exposed. 

I mustn’t think like that, she chided herself. Any situation can be turned into an advantage. I just need to think of it from a new angle. Mom had reassured her earlier that Malos really did seem different than he had been in the past. Maybe my piece in this isn’t worrying about the potential war. I’m not a leader this time. If she was to leave the defense of Agnus and Origin to her parents, where did that leave her? I can focus on reunification. Pick up their slack since they’re distracted. Might as well since I’m grounded anyway.

She took another look at the notes she’d asked her Mom to get concerning their work on Reunification. They’re getting most of the way there, it seems like. Yet every time, it seems to collapse, almost like it’s unbalanced. A pattern caught her eye in the simulations. Wait, is it always coming undone on the Kevesi side? The annihilation events seem to be centered on Kevesi landmarks, at least, even if the blast tends to encompass pieces of both worlds. It was hard to tell at a glance what matter was from what world once they combined, but that was nothing a whiteboard and some markers couldn’t solve. 

---

Several hours of calculations, at least three markers, and a meal later did indeed confirm her theory. The unified world always destabilized from Kevesi matter. It’s too consistent to be a coincidence. She sighed out loud. I wish I knew more about Grandfather’s experiment with the Conduit. It might shed some light on this.

“Grandfather’s experiment, that’s it!” she exclaimed. “It keeps falling apart on the Kevesi side because there’s no Trinity Processer Core to anchor it! Until now!” She gathered her notes and bolted out of her room. Grounding be damned, she needed to get to Origin and share her findings. 

 

Glimmer

Glimmer had been composing when Mum broke the news. Now, mother and daughter sat on Glimmer’s bed, with Mum patiently awaiting Glimmer’s reaction. “I can’t believe Malos is alive. To think he was the one to bail us all out in the fight with Alpha.”

Mum nodded solemnly. “I remember. I was there too, in Matthew’s Fists of the End. Although Mythra and I were hardly conscious at the time, so it’s more like remembering a dream.”

“I really don’t know how to feel about him being back,” Glimmer admitted. She shuddered, despite the temperature in her room being comfortable.

“Glimmer?” Mum asked, concerned.

“It’s just, when I think about what he did to you at Gotrok Oracle Ruins,” she admitted, “I feel gross. Violated.” Mum pulled her into a hug, which for once, Glimmer didn’t pull away from. 

“It’s a memory I don’t enjoy reliving,” Mum admitted. “It took a long time and a lot of therapy for me to stop blaming myself for what happened.”

“That right there!” Glimmer shouted. “That’s exactly why I can’t trust him!” She stood up, pacing as she did so, “I’m just supposed to let him back into our lives after what he did to Alrest? To Mom? Mam? Rex? After what he did to you?!?”

“You made greater leaps of trust before,” Mum replied. “Rex told me about Aionios. How you eventually grew to trust Nikol and the others.”

“Don’t,” she cautioned her Mum. “Don’t you dare compare my husband to that monster!” I wish he was here right now. Just his presence would be a huge comfort. 

“That wasn’t what I was trying to do,” Mum said. “I’m sorry, Glimmer. I didn’t think about how it would sound.” Mum sighed. “But like it or not, we don’t have a choice but to trust him right now.”

Glimmer shook her head, “I can’t do that.”

“If you can’t trust him, can you trust us? Or Noah?”

Glimmer straight up laughed. “Trust Noah? How could I trust Noah? I’ve seen what he can do. N betrayed everyone. And make no mistake, N is still in there. Even if he did the right thing in his last life, that doesn’t go away.”

“Noah knows that better than anyone,” Mum countered. “If anything, it should be even more reason to trust him. Mio wouldn’t have stayed with him if she thought he would make the same mistakes again.”

Glimmer had to admit she was right about that. Mio was not the type to make the same mistake twice. “Fine, I’ll trust you all on this,” she acquiesced, “but I don’t like it.”

“Neither do I,” Mum admitted. “If it makes you feel better, your Mom reminded me that he couldn’t beat us before. What chance does he have now against us, you, Alex, Mio, and the other members of Ouroboros?”

“So if he doesn’t behave himself, we just kick his ass?” Glimmer laughed. “I can work with that.” Mother and daughter held each other as laughter echoed through Glimmer’s bedroom. 

 

Mio

Mio sat in her room, still floored by the news Mam had given everyone. Shortly after the message ended, Mio received a call from Mam on her Iris. She picked up immediately. 

“How are you holding up, Mio?” Mam asked.

“I don’t know if I’ve fully processed it, to be honest,” she admitted. “I didn’t think it would be possible.”

“None of us realized this could happen,” Mam replied. “But, Mio, there’s more I have to tell you. You deserve to know the details of how it happened. I’ll be up to your room in a few minutes.”

Nervous, but trusting her Mam, Mio replied, “Sure thing. See you in a few.”

---

“It was Noah? Noah resonated with Malos?!?” Mio cried, outraged. “Why would he do that?”

Mam placed a hand on her shoulder. “It wasn’t an active choice, Mio. It happened because of N’s Sword of the End.”

She stood up and began marching towards the door. “I’m going to get answers from Noah himself. He needs to understand what he’s dealing with.”

“I won’t stop you,” Mam said as she stood up, “but please remember this isn’t his fault. No one knows why Malos’ spirit was in N’s sword.”

---

Mio stepped onto a balcony overlooking the sea and took a deep breath. I need to keep calm. Yet she was plagued by the knowledge that it had been Malos’ spirit that had helped destroy the first City, that had helped N shackle her to Moebius. He was there. Every moment, every touch, every intimate detail of N and M’s lives, he was there for it. Mio felt violated. Those were moments she only wanted shared with Noah, not the Endbringer. Her righteous anger reached a boiling point as she reached out across the worlds. Noah, you have some explaining to do! She dissolved into light as the Interlink took hold. 

 

Noah/Mio

Mio, what’s wrong? Is there another Fogbeast attack? Noah thought as he scanned the horizon. He saw no threat as he did so, only the gorgeous view of the Great Sea lapping against the cliffs beneath Agnus Castle. 

No, there’s no danger, Noah, Mio replied. But we need to talk. About Malos. 

Of course, Noah responded, breathing an internal sigh of relief that Mio and her family weren’t in immediate danger. What do you want to talk about? he prodded cautiously, sensing Mio’s anger. 

Do you have any idea what you’ve done? Mio asked. Of exactly who you’re dealing with?

I admit, I don’t really. We didn’t really cover much Alrestian history before the Intersection, Noah explained. But I did some research after I woke up this morning. I do know he attacked Alrest. And that he really hurt your family. 

Yet I notice you’re not apologizing for it.

I won’t apologize for being his Driver. It would be an insult to the resonance. Ino taught me that. 

I suppose I can’t fault you for that, Mio admitted. Noah, do you understand what being an Aegis’ Driver really means?

I’m almost positive I don’t, actually, Noah replied. 

It means you’re a Master Driver. You can establish resonance with any Blade, Bladeling, or Flesh Eater. And it doesn’t have to be consensual. Mio shuddered internally. 

Wait, what? Noah asked, taken aback. 

The power can be used with consent to great effect, Mio explained. My Da makes great use of it. It can even be used to help Blades escape from abusive Drivers without needing, rare, expensive Overdrive Protocols. But it has darker applications as well. Mio shuddered. Amalthus almost made my Mom destroy the Monoceros against her will. I shudder to think what he might have done behind closed doors with that power. 

That’s despicable! It’s a complete perversion of the relationship between a Driver and Blade, not to mention just a horrible thing to do in general. Noah shouted internally in disgust. Mio, I swear, I will never use that power on anyone that does not want me to. I don’t want to dominate people’s lives. I just want to help make sure everyone can live them. A realization occurred to Noah. Wait, this Amalthus. If I remember right, he was Malos’ original Driver. Noah felt a pang of sympathy. No wonder he carries the burden he does.

Don’t tell me you’re excusing what he did, Mio warned him. 

Not at all, anymore than I would excuse myself for what N did, Noah clarified. Circumstances aside, he still made those choices. I intend to make sure I help him repay the debt he owes to the people of Alrest. Although he may have paid a significant chunk of it off already by unlocking the true power of Ouroboros for us. 

Wait, what? Mio asked. I thought Ouroboros was entirely Mom and Mum’s power.

Not quite, Noah clarified, the initial form of it was. But it was the combined power of your Mom, your Mum, and Malos that unlocked the power to Interlink. Without him, we’d never have escaped the Endless Now. 

Mio didn’t know how to respond. The power she cherished so dearly, the thing that helped her remember Noah, it was partially because of Malos? In an ironic way, it makes sense, she admitted. We used the Endbringer’s power to end the world. 

That’s just it, Noah said. His power can be a force for good, not just destruction. I want to help him realize that. And I think that some part of him, deep down, wants that too. Even if he’d never admit it. 

Just please be careful, Noah, Mio cautioned him, Malos is just as dangerous as Z was. 

So are we, Noah reminded her, it was us that brought him down in the end. We held that same power over Origin. And we used it well, I’d like to think. 

You make a good point, Mio laughed. Besides, it’s not like Eunie, Lanz, or Joran will let you go down the wrong path either. 

Noah laughed with her. Right you are. I should get going. I want to warm up before today’s restorations start. I’m making a special trip to the hospital this evening too, for people that can’t make it to Keves Castle.

Oh shoot, I need to get my stage makeup on and everything, Mio replied. I hope Uncle Tora is getting closer to an answer. I miss casually talking with you like this. 

Me too. I’ll hold you as soon as I can, Mio. I promise. 

The Interlink ended as the form of Mio’s Ouroboros faded into light.

Notes:

Writer’s block, yay! It took way too long for me to start working on this again. Then things just kept happening. The song Mio and Pyra are humming is “Auresco, Royal Capital”. Why is it always the Malos sections that take so long? Regardless, I’m back and happy to report that I’ve gone back over old chapters and polished up what typos I could find. I love you all.

Chapter 14: Congregating Lives

Summary:

Juniper, Irma, and Fiona meet the Blades with whom they share a Core as memory restorations continue.

Notes:

The Ouroboros Gang canonically fought the Superbosses for the sake of this story. However, because random monsters resurrecting make little to no sense outside the context of the game, they were all encountered at their highest possible level. (So Kilocorn Grandeps was Lv 150 and Seraphic Ceratinia was Lv 200, with all the nasty extra properties of their Arts that go with it.)

Fiona

Fiona and her friends sat beneath the proud Saffronia tree on the hill of New Garfont, anxiously awaiting the arrival of Orimes, Marigold, and Aelen. Unable to sit still, she had taken to pacing around the tree’s base. What if they don’t like us? What if they don’t actually show up? Oh, I hate waiting!

“I see them!” Juni called out, as if in response to Fiona’s thoughts. They were pointing to three shapes that, to Fiona, were mere dots on the horizon. 

“Are you sure?” Fiona asked.

Juni nodded. “I can’t explain it, but if I reach out with my heart, I can feel it.” They touched the embedded Core Crystal in their left shoulder. “If I focus on it, it’s almost like my Core is resonating.”

Fiona immediately gave it a try. Sure enough, she felt a strange resonance from the Core Crystal embedded in her ear. It was an ethereal pulse, rhythmic in nature, in time with her heart. “What an odd feeling!” she exclaimed. “I’ve never resonated with a Blade before!”

“Agreed,” Irmee observed. “It’s kind of like having two heartbeats.”

“I wonder if they can feel it too?” Juni pondered. 

“We’ll just have to ask them when they get here!” Fiona added. Unable to relax, she resumed her pacing around the tree, noting that the fog was sticking around longer than usual this morning. 

---

 

“Hello!” Fiona called out as the three Blades crested the lip of the hill the Saffronia sat atop. 

“Well someone’s excited,” Marigold observed, her voice a surprisingly hearty tenor despite her small stature. 

“I think she might even be more excited than you are, Aelen,” Orimes joked. Their voice was surprisingly quiet, as if the earth itself was whispering to you. 

“Well of course she’s excited!” Aelen countered. His voice was deep and commanding, completely counter to the grin on his face and his wagging tail. “Who wouldn’t be excited to meet new friends?” His grey-white fur glistened in the sunlight as he walked towards Fiona. “A pleasure to meet you, Commander Fiona.”

“The pleasure’s all mine, Aelen!” Fiona squealed. “May I please touch your fur? I’ve been dying to know what it feels like ever since I got your picture.” Aelen nodded and Fiona was quick to accept his offer. The Blade’s fur was surprisingly coarse, and a little bit greasy to the touch, not at all what she had expected. 

“Well, Miss Fiona, is it to your liking?” Aelen asked her. 

“It’s different than I expected,” she admitted, “but I do like it. It’s strong.”

“Thank you, Miss.”

“Oh enough with the Miss!” Fiona corrected. “You can call me Fifi. I have a feeling we’re going to be the best of friends!”

Aelen nodded, “I sincerely hope we do, Fifi.” Fiona felt as if she were walking on air. This was going even better than she could have hoped!

Marigold’s voice interrupted Fiona’s thoughts. “Now that the introductions are done,” she said, “what say you all to a nice lunch? On me, of course!” Aelen’s ears perked up at the mention of food, his tail wagging enthusiastically. Orimes nodded approvingly as Juni’s stomach rumbled audibly. “I’ve always said the best way to get to know a person is over a hot meal!”

“I can get behind that,” Irmee agreed. The six of them began walking to the Vargel Tavern, side by side.

---

“Enjoy your meals!” the cheery waitress said as she left.

Fiona took a generous sip of her Lentil Milkshake as Irmee struck up a conversation. “So how did you all end up with the Garfont Mercenaries?”

Orimes answered, “Indol had us in captivity after you all awakened us.” Juni was laser-focused all of the sudden. “When the raid that freed you all hit, we slipped away in the confusion.”

“I’m sorry, did you just say that we awakened you all?” Juni asked incredulously. When the trio of Blades nodded, they continued, “We’re your Drivers?”

“You seem confused, hun,” Marigold said. “Do you not remember bonding with our Cores?” Fiona and her friends all shook their heads no.

“It makes sense, I suppose,” Aelen added. “They were pretty young, and they weren’t exactly in good condition at the time.”

Fifi shuddered at the memory of that cold table where unspeakable evil had been performed on her and her friends. Sometimes, she still had nightmares about them pumping her full of strange serums or performing unnecessary surgeries. 

Marigold nodded. “We didn’t really know each other at that point,” she explained, “but we knew an escape opportunity when we saw one.”

“We wanted to go back for you,” Aelen explained, “but we had no idea where you were being kept.”

Orimes nodded gravely, “Thinking back on it, they must have had you in cells designed to cancel out ether. Otherwise we would have been able to feel you, like we did when we got to New Garfont today.”

“We figured we were more useful to you on the outside,” Marigold said. “If we escaped, maybe we could find help. We didn’t know how powerful the Indoline Resistance Army was, at the time.”

“Of course you didn’t,” Irmee sympathized. “It’s not like Blades awaken with an intimate knowledge of Alrest’s political landscape built in.”

“When Rex broke through, the Garfont Mercenaries took us in,” Aelen said. “We were told you’d been placed in the care of Sanctuary, and that once we had had some counseling for our trauma, we were free to do as we saw fit.”

“It was actually Tess’ idea to join up with the Garfont Mercenaries,” Marigold explained. 

Orimes continued, “Blades can’t really use the full extent of their abilities while far away from their Drivers. Except in Aionios, oddly.”

“Were you three soldiers?” Fiona asked. 

Aelen shook his head, “I was not, but Orimes, Marigold, and Tess were. Moebius didn’t use beast type Blades.”

“Where were you stationed for the last cycle?” Juni inquired. 

“Colony Epsilon,” Marigold answered. 

“Colony Sigma for me,” Orimes said.

Irmee looked uncomfortable, so Fiona reached for her hand quietly under the table. Her eyes said a silent thank you. 

“I was the Commander of Colony Tau,” Juni added. 

“Commander,” Fiona said, pointing at herself, “and lieutenant,” she said pointing at Irmee, “of Colony Mu.” Irmee seemed utterly shocked by Fiona’s willingness to hide her affiliation with Moebius. She gave Fiona a grateful squeeze on the hand beneath the table, which made Fiona’s heart do a little jig. 

“We would love the chance to train with you as a group,” Irmee managed, shaking her nerves, “once Taion meets Tess.”

“We can do you one better than train!” Marigold exclaimed. “How would you like to join us on patrol today?”

“It’s just around New Garfont, so probably pretty boring,” Orimes admitted, “but at the very least, we’ll have more of a chance to get to know each other.”

“That sounds wonderful!” Fiona replied.

“No objections here,” Juni added. Irmee nodded in agreement. And just like that, Fiona, Irmee, and Juni had plans for the afternoon. 

 

Zeon

Zeon never got over how utterly gorgeous Alcamoth was. Growing up in Fort Gran Dell had afforded him many opportunities to see the capital floating majestically above the open sky. One day, Empress Melia will eat one of my potatoes, he promised himself. Who knows? Maybe getting my memories of Aionios back will improve my farming. 

“Are you nervous, Zeon?” his mom asked, breaking his concentration as they walked across the threshold for the Imperial Palace. 

“A bit,” he admitted, “but I’m mostly curious.”

“You’ll be okay. You’ve got your dad and I to rely on,” she reassured him. Quite suddenly, she began to tear up. “Sorry, sorry. I’m just  proud of you. And a bit sad you’ll be growing up so fast.” Before he could protest, she quickly added, “But I’d never forgive myself if you lost the ability to reclaim a part of yourself.”

“That seems like a lot of emotions at once, Mom.”

“Being an adult, and especially being a mom, is just like that sometimes, Zeon,” she answered. “You’ll understand that soon enough,” she continued with a sad smile. “Don’t think I’m all tears though!” she teased. “I’m so excited and curious to meet the person you grew up to be.”

As the line moved forward once again, Zeon took note of the people next to him in line. There was a Homs boy with crimson hair of about fourteen, standing next to a disinterested, well-dressed man Zeon assumed was his father, in front of them. Behind them was a Machina boy, only ten like himself by his estimation, there with both of his mothers. 

Realizing he was going to be standing with these folks for some time, Zeon decided to strike up a conversation. “Hi,” he said, extending his hand to the Machina boy, “my name is Zeon.”

“Nice to meet you,” the boy said, shaking his hand. “I’m Mwamba. I live in Colony 9. Where are you from?”

Zeon whistled. “That’s a long way from here. I live close by, in Fort Gran Dell on the Shoulder.”

Mwamba’s eyes lit up, “That’s so cool! I’ve always wanted to visit. I heard there’s a spectacular view from the top of the Eternal Zenith.”

“I’ve never actually been to the top of it,” Zeon admitted. “My mom says it’s too dangerous.”

“I’m a pretty good climber,” Mwamba replied. He lowered his voice before adding, “Maybe we can convince her to let you go up if I’m there with you?”

Zeon responded in equally whispered tones, “I’ll need to get her permission to invite you home with us.” Mwamba nodded in agreement as the line inched forward again. “I don’t think now is a good time to ask, though. She’s in a bit of a bad mood because of the restoration.”

“Makes sense,” Mwamba replied. “Maybe over lunch? I know my moms were planning to grab a bite afterwards.”

“A fine plan,” Zeon acknowledged. To his surprise, Mwamba started to laugh. “What’s so funny?”

“It’s the way you speak,” Mwamba said. “It’s so formal! Like a vampire or something! Are your parents, like, politicians?”

“Quite the opposite, actually,” Zeon corrected. “We’re farmers.”

“That’s cool. What’s your favorite crop?” Mwamba asked, appearing to be genuinely interested. 

“We grow quite a few, but my favorite has to be the Cool Potato,” Zeon answered.

“Those are native to Colony 9,” Mwamba said. “I didn’t know you could grow them this high up.”

“They’re a surprisingly resilient crop,” Zeon informed his new friend. “They can grow just about anywhere if you tend to them, as long as there’s enough soil for them to take root. Although, my dad told me there used to be a place on the Bionis where it was so cold and inhospitable, you couldn’t grow a thing.”

“Fascinating,” Mwamba replied. “I never knew.”

“What are you talking about?” the boy with the red hair said. As Zeon looked in his direction, he could see his father was on his Iris in a call. 

“Cool Potatoes, and why they’re my favorite crop,” Zeon replied. He extended his hand, “My name is Zeon, and this is Mwamba.” The aforementioned Machina waved politely. 

The Homs boy shook his hand firmly, almost too much so. “My name’s Kite,” he said. “I’m from Colony 6.”

“Fort Gran Dell,” Zeon said. 

“Colony 9 for me,” Mwamba finished. 

The three of them fell into easy conversation as the line continued its glacial march forward. Despite the many hours it would likely take to reach their goal, Zeon was content to spend the time talking with his newfound friends. 

 

Taion

“Sparks, not again!” Taion swore to the sound of groans from the entire team filling the war room inside Origin. Yet another simulation had ended in an Annihilation Event. This one had obliterated Alcamoth and much of the Bionis Shoulder. 

“We were so close to stabilizing this time, too,” Nikol complained on the monitor. “Just a few more hours and we would have been golden.” The team had been at this for over twenty-four hours, sleeping in shifts, barely pausing to eat (or in Poppi’s case, recharge). 

“That should have worked,” Shulk said. “I was confident in those calculations.”

“Shulk-Shulk’s calculations were correct, Tora can confirm,” the other Master Engineer verified. “All of Agnus and Uraya safe from blast zone, unlike last time.”

“None of Bionis remains underwater disappear this time, either,” Riku pointed out. 

Taion heard hurried footsteps coming from the hall. It’s too early for Adenine and KOS-MOS to be awake. They just got relieved by Tora and Poppi. So who could that be? Queen Nia, come to check on our progress, perhaps?

His internal musings were quickly proven false as Alexandria, amusingly still in her pajamas from the look of things, burst into the room with a stack of papers and an enormous smile. “Don’t despair, everyone,” she instructed calmly, “I’ve made a breakthrough.”

 

---

 

Taion shook his head in disbelief. “I have to hand it to you, Alexandria,” he said. “Every time I think I’ve estimated your capabilities correctly, you manage to prove me wrong.”

The former commander of Colony Iota glowed at his praise. “It was the least I could do,” she replied. “Besides, what else was I supposed to do while I was grounded?”

Most people wouldn’t answer that question with “make a breakthrough on an impossible problem,” Taion thought, wisely keeping his musing to himself. He’d seen Alexandria angry, and didn’t much fancy being on the receiving end of it. 

“Finding a way to integrate Pyra, Mythra, and Malos’ Cores into this will take some time,” Shulk admitted. “Still, this is a huge observation, Alexandria. We’re in your debt.”

Alexandria smiled. “As appealing as having the God-Slayer in my debt sounds,” she admitted, “I would be remiss not to mention Origin existing. I think I still owe you a few favors, if we’re going to be keeping track.”

“Shulk-Shulk, friend Alex have point,” Tora said. 

“Masterpon,” Poppi interrupted, tossing her scarf behind herself with a stylish flick of her wrist, “Poppi has finished uploading friend Alexandria’s findings into Origin. Should now be available for use in designing simulations.”

“Riku can confirm.”

“Thanks a bunch, Poppi,” Nikol said.

“I still don’t understand why you wouldn’t just let me enter the notes myself,” Alex said.

“Friend Mythra was very clear,” Tora explained, “that ‘under absolutely no circumstances is Alexandria to be allowed access to any Origin systems.’”

Alexandria shrugged, “You can’t blame a woman for trying.” The child said.

Remembering what Alexandria had been capable of with the Collectapedia Cards in Aionios, Taion shuddered thinking about what she could do with access to the information contained in Origin. I think Mythra made the right call. The team of brilliant minds began their work on the newest aspect of their problem, with Taion, for the first time in a while, experiencing a small bit of hope. 

 

Ethel

 

Ethel waved to her friends as the Imperial Guard gestured for her and her mother to follow. “This way please, Miss.” Her father had to stay in Colony 9, since he couldn’t find anyone to mind his shop. Indeed, most of the people who would have were here in Alcamoth, accompanying their own children. The guard stopped in front of a door. “The Restoration Chamber is beyond here,” she said. “Your Off-Seer is named Noah. Best of luck.” The door opened and Ethel stepped inside. 

Awaiting her was a room bereft of sharp edges, with a set of comfortable-looking chairs nestled beneath a porthole style window to allow the sunshine in. The walls were lined with a curious material she’d never seen before, and she had to fight the urge to remove her shoes as she stepped across the carpeted floor. 

Seated in one of the chairs with a flute in his lap was a boy. Noah, she presumed. He was younger than herself, with a shocked expression on his face. He played with his ponytail nervously for a moment before composing himself. Does he know me? It was a disconcerting feeling, to be known to a total stranger. While she was certain she had seen him once or twice around the Colony, it was not as if they’d ever had cause to speak. They had been in different years at school, after all. 

Noah appeared to sense her discomfort. He placed his flute on a small table beside his chair and extended his hand. Oddly, it was not her mother that he addressed first, but herself. “Hello. I’m Noah, and I’ll be doing your Memory Restoration today,” he said as shook her hand.

“Ethel,” she responded as her mind raced. It was possible he merely recognized her from the halls of their school in Colony 9, but his expression had suggested a far deeper level of familiarity. We must have known each other in Aionios. It was the only explanation that made sense, really. 

“Agnes Silver,” her mother said. Noah seemed to be trying not to laugh at her, which was odd. Ethel didn’t think her last name was all that funny, personally, but she tried to let it slide. She was there for more important things anyhow.

“Pleasure to meet you,” Noah responded. “Please, both of you, take a seat.”

As Ethel made herself comfortable, she asked Noah, “Is there anything else I should know, going into this?”

Noah shook his head. “Nothing that would be better if I explained it beforehand. Just know we have a whole team on call for support, should you feel you need it.”

Satisfied, she turned to her mother, who nodded approvingly. “Then let’s not waste any more time,” Ethel told the young Off-Seer. “I’m ready to reunite with my past selves.”

“Brave as always,” she heard Noah whisper to himself as he brought the flute to his lips. Before she could ask what he meant, Noah began to play. 

Instantly, Ethel began to tear up as the melody coming from the boy’s flute felt as if it was ripping her heart apart. With each note, a horrifying new image of war flashed before her eyes. Corpses, she thought before shaking her head. No, husks of hundreds of unknown Agnian soldiers lay at her feet, while dozens of Kevesi husks lay at her back. Not all had been killed by her hand, but they had died on her orders. Guilt wracked her body, but she could not focus on it, for Noah played on. 

She saw Bolearis and Oleshandra, valiantly fighting with her to hold an Agnian attack. She saw flashes of a Colony in flames, three third-termers huddled together in pure relief to see a friendly face. In the present her Blades appeared in her hands, and they felt natural there. 

She remembered her last incarnation. A Nopon had carelessly opened her cradle. Travis and Monica had taken care of her, but she was unsatisfied with remaining a defenseless child. Then Ouroboros, strangers to her then, returned with Cammuravi. She hadn’t know him then, but the two grew close. Cammuravi didn’t treat her like a child, not like the others. No, he saw the warrior’s flame that burned within. Even when he struggled, he would find time to train her as an equal. 

When she had learned of the growth capsule at Colony Omega, she knew what she had to do. The war was coming to a head, and the Lost Numbers and Ouroboros needed every advantage they could get to put Moebius down for good. She had sacrificed her ten terms gladly. Cammuravi had called her “Silvercoat” that day. Only now, did she understand what he had remembered; echoes of a rivalry that defined their previous lives. As her mind collected itself, Noah having reached the end of song, she could think of only one thing. No matter what, she thought, I must reunite with Cammuravi again. I finally understand my feelings for him were beyond rivalry. It was love, genuine and pure. 

“Thank you, Noah,” she said as she bowed her head in respect and gratitude. “I find myself in your debt once again. You’ve given me a gift I can never repay. Because of you, I can remember those from Aionios whom are so dear to me.”

Noah shook his head, “You don’t owe me anything, Ethel. You never have. I’m just grateful to truly have my friend back again.”

 

Zenobia

“One of these days,” Zenobia panted, “I’m going to beat you, Mythra.” It wasn’t often the Wind-element Blade found herself winded, but if anyone could make her sweat, it was the Aegis herself.

“You lasted longer that time,” Mythra complimented her. “That new training routine is working for you.”

“It’s so hard to keep up with you both when you fight,” Praxis added as she walked over. “You’re both so fast!”

“I don’t understand why you keep picking a fight you know you’ll lose,” Theory admonished her. “Seems kind of pointless, if you ask me.”

Zenobia was confused by her lack of vision. “It’s precisely because Mythra is such a challenging opponent,” she attempted to explain. “I live for epic battles against truly worthy opponents. It’s the only time I feel truly alive.” Theory simply shrugged in response. “The feeling of the ether coursing through you, knowing the only thing keeping you going is your own strength, wit, and skill. It’s staring death in the face and laughing!” Before Zenobia could explain further, her Driver and Pandoria arrived, but more importantly, Mòrag and Brighid! They’re no Aegis, but they’re legendary adversaries , she thought, recalling the times they had travelled together and clashed at camp. 

“Mòrag and Brighid, I chall-“ Zenobia started. 

“Oh no you don’t!” Zeke cut her off. “We’re here on business, not pleasure, remember?”

“Fiiiiine,” Zenobia conceded. “Spoilsport,” she muttered under her breath, to which Praxis snorted with unsuccessfully contained laughter.

“Rex asked us to head down to New Garfont with him,” Pandoria added. “He wants to deploy a number of groups to the Agnian-Urayan border.”

Zenobia suppressed a sigh. Despite her love for battle, she loathed the idea of war. You just can’t enjoy yourself in a war. It’s way too grim, I just feel guilty for relishing in the fight. 

“Ooo!” Praxis cheered. “We’ll get to see Sena!”

“How is your little powerhouse?” Zenobia asked Brighid as their group began the trek. 

“She’s handling everything as well as can be expected,” came Brighid’s reply. “Five thousand years is an unfathomably long time to collect bad memories.”

“Thankfully, she has her friends close,” Mòrag added. “Their presence has been quite the boon.”

“Glad to hear it,” Zenobia replied. They chatted for the remainder of the journey, all tactfully avoiding mentioning the brewing war. Instead, during gaps in the conversation, Zenobia wondered about the Unique Monsters and deadly foes of Aionios. I have to ask Sena for the details. I’d love to fight Ouroboros given the chance. 

New Garfont was not far from Agnus Castle, and the group arrived as a trio of Blades led a group of Blade Eater children out to patrol. A familiar face came to greet them. “Always a pleasure to see you all,” Ursula remarked, embracing them each in turn, with Beary following suit. “Sena is waiting for you in the Command Tent.”

“Will you be coming with us?” Zenobia asked. 

The young woman shook her head. “I’m helping out the Breeze Shooters with Kora and some others. I’ll be happy to catch-up with you all later though!” She smiled before gasping, “I’m late, sorry!” She said as she turned and ran, her bare feet leaving delicate snowflakes in their wake as she went. Fog swirled to quickly reclaim its place from where Ursula and Beary had disturbed it.

“Mom, Momma!” Sena called out from behind her. She was in the entrance to the Command Tent, holding a tray of freshly made onigiri, waving at them to come over. Despite the strange stillness in the air, Zenobia smiled as she made her way over with the rest of the group.

 

Mio

Mio breathed a sigh of relief as she sat down in the green room. The Memory Restoration had gone well, and she had the rest of the day to herself. Miyabi appeared similarly relieved. As it turns out, playing for a live audience when your primary audience had been husks for a decade was a bit difficult. Still, the people in attendance had seemed satisfied with the result. 

“Well done today, Mio,” Miyabi praised her as the pair began dutifully removing their stage makeup. 

“You as well,” Mio replied. “We’ve always made a great team, once I stopped being so stubborn.”

Miyabi smiled. “What are you going to do with the rest of the day?”

“I’m not sure, honestly,” Mio replied. “I was thinking about going down to New Garfont. My Da was going to be there today, and I’d like a bit more practice with the Master Driver class.”

“Do you mind if I join you?” Miyabi asked. “Sena told me she was helping out in the kitchen and I’ve missed her onigiri.”

“Not at all,” Mio answered as she began to change. “We can make a nice day of it. Not like I’d be much use hanging around here, anyway. Engineering of any kind has never been my specialty.”

“That was always more Alexandria’s thing,” Miyabi agreed. “Changing the subject,” she added, “I do wish there was a way us regular people could contact Keves. I’m dying to reconnect with Ethel, Mwamba, and the others.”

Mio collected her replica Off-Seeing uniform to hang up. “I know what you mean. I’m going mad not being able to speak with everyone.” The pair of friends hung their uniforms up as they exited the room, returning to the white and gold halls of Agnus Castle. “But we’ll see them again soon.”

Before Miyabi could reply, a most unusual sight greeted them as they turned the corner. Taion nearly slammed into them, having been running at a breakneck pace. “Goodness, Taion!” exclaimed Miyabi. “What has you out of sorts?”

“Mio, Miyabi, thank goodness,” he said. “Follow me, there’s no time! We have to warn them!”

Quickly falling into pace, Mio and Miyabi joined Taion as he booked it towards the stairway to the Agnus Castle Barbican. “Who are we warning?” Mio asked. “And what are we warning them about?”

“New Garfont is in danger,” Taion explained. “The fog that gathers there, there’s black fog mixed in!” Both Off-Seers gasped. “It looks like it’s about to open a rift like with Haar Ophion, then detonate the whole village.”

“Ashes and flames,” Mio swore. She reached to activate for her Iris, but Taion stopped her. 

“Don’t bother,” he explained, “you can’t get through.”

“Right, the black fog,” Mio realized. 

“I’ve sent a Mondo ahead to find your dad, but there’s no time to waste.”

“Follow me,” Mio instructed. “I know this castle like the back of my hand. There’s a shortcut.”

 

Juniper

Juniper heard it before the others felt it. A sudden, high-pitched whine, as if something enormous was straining beneath its own weight, followed by a sudden slam. 

Before they could warn anyone, the shockwave hit, knocking the wind from their lungs. “What was that?” they heard Fiona ask. Irma started to reply, but was cut off by an ear splitting cracking noise coming from the middle of New Garfont that made Juniper’s ears ring. 

As they turned to face the village, they were greeted with the sight of an ugly rift behind the Saffronia tree that stood as a symbol of the village. Black and orange fog poured forth, taking shape into a dark mockery of Ignas. These beasts immediately began a rampage, sending adults and children alike scrambling to fight or flee. 

“Let’s go,” they heard Fiona and Aelen order their groups in unison as Juniper summoned their Blade. Fiona, to everyone’s surprise, leapt atop Aelen’s back, Blade held like a lance, and lead the charge. The rest of them ran to keep up, as internally Juniper cursed their inattentiveness. The unnaturally long-lived fog that had cloaked their morning was not an unfamiliar sight to them. Maktha had experienced a similar phenomenon before, and it always precluded one thing and one thing only. It’s hiding black fog. The whole village is about to be annihilated!

The fighting was chaotic and intense. Arrow after arrow was loosed from Juniper’s bow, each one felling a Fogbeast only for another to take its place. Orimes used their large frame to their advantage, providing cover for those fleeing while wielding their megalance to great effect.

Out of the corner of their eye, they saw Irma had opted for her dual guns. She was fighting in a way Juniper had never seen her do before. Irma appeared to notice their puzzled expression. “I picked up some tricks from the Kevesi Colonies I managed,” she explained. Ignas moved to surround her, and before Juniper could intervene, Irma calmly lowered her Blades as five identical copies of her appeared without warning. As the Ignas slashed at the decoys, a rousing cry of “Violent Streak!” rang out, with the real Irma expertly weaving in and out of danger as she unleashed a rapid-fire salvo in all directions. Marigold’s cannon made short work of any that survived the initial onslaught. 

The sounds of combat echoed from all directions as the Garfont Mercenaries responded. Flashes of light pulsed through the fog, signs of battles happening elsewhere. Juniper swore they heard Sena’s voice somewhere in the fracas, but had to refocus on a particularly large Igna that was charging straight for them. Unfortunately, as far as Juniper could tell, they weren’t making any progress towards the rift, the only way to end this. They were pinned down, unable to push further for fear of exposing the fleeing non-combatants. 

That’s when an enormous axe blasted a group of twenty Fogbeasts clean apart as it descended from above, followed quickly by a very scantily clad woman laughing like a maniac. The woman reclaimed her axe and tossed it back to Zeke, of all people, who had arrived flanked by Pandoria, Mòrag, Brighid, and two more Blades Juniper had never met. Sena quickly joined them. 

“We’ll hold the line,” Fiona informed their new arrivals. “Please, close that rift before anyone else gets hurt!”

“It would be my pleasure,” Mòrag responded as the group began carving a path forward. 

 

Sena

“Leave her alone!” Sena cried out as her Blade connected with a Fogbeast terrorizing a young woman, the hit vaporizing it. Satisfied it was neutralized, she reached out her hand to the woman on the ground. “Up you get!” Sena instructed. 

“Thank you,” she replied as Sena helped her to her feet. 

“The defensive line is about a hundred titanpeds that way,” Sena informed her. “Think you can make it?” The woman nodded and took off running. 

“We’re almost at the hill,” Momma said. “Brace yourselves, something is coming through!”

The rift glowed white-hot, bolts of eerie orange lightning streaking outwards as a massive form took shape. Something resembling an Ardanian Titan weapon bellowed atop the hill, its roar enough to blast away the mundane fog. 

“You’ve got to be bloody joking!” Zeke exclaimed. “This ugly bastard again?”

Sena’s Iris identified the creature as “Gloomwalker Kurodil; Lv 130.” Sena gulped. This thing was strong. Really strong. Almost Kilocorn Grandeps strong, and that worried Sena. I’m gonna need Lanzy for this, but I don’t want to Interlink without Mimi and Taion. We work better as a group. They have to have noticed what’s happening. They’ve got to be on their way. 

Sena’s train of thought was interrupted by her Mom shouting, “Take cover! It’s using its cannons!” Sena barely managed to dive behind a nearby rock as the hail of bullets rained down.

“Uncle Zeke!” she called out over the storm of gunfire. “When you fought this thing before, were you able to Break it?”

“We could, but it was tough,” Uncle Zeke replied. “Only Tora and Poppi were able to consistently get through!”

“Mom, Momma!” Sena called out, “I’ve got an idea, give me an opening!” Her Flashback Master Art was charged up, so it was time for the “Sena Special” as Eunie once called it. 

“On my mark, then!” Mom acknowledged. “Azure Form the Second: Blaze!” As flames came from Momma’s Dreadnoughts, Sena quickly rushed into position on the side of the monstrosity. 

She drew on the fire burning in her core, feeling her power welling up inside her as she raised her Meteor Smasher above her head, hardly feeling its weight in the Accomplished Vambraces on her hands. Sena let the built-up energy release as she cried, “Maximum Voltage!” Her Fusion Art rippled outward, slamming into the Unique Monster so hard it stumbled. 

Uncle Zeke and Auntie Pandoria wasted no time in capitalizing. Zeke threw his Bigger Bang to Pandoria. She removed her wand from the sword, caught a bolt of lightning, and quickly zapped Kurodil. Instead of returning the sword, Pandoria instead backed off as Zenobia’s Galaxy Dusking flew into Zeke’s hand. Zenobia herself landed behind Zeke, the Blade looking as if she was having the time of her life. “Finally!” she cackled as Momma erected a barrier to shield Mom from a nasty-looking tail swipe. “An opponent worth my time!”

Sena drove her Blade into Kurodil’s stomach, feeling the Power Charge from Ethel’s Cross Impact surge through her as she connected the fused Art, she heard Zenobia call out, “Give ‘em hell, Zeke!”

“With pleasure!” Uncle Zeke responded as he hooked Zenobia’s Galaxy Dusking onto the Unique Monster’s leg before spinning in with his elbow extended to drive the Fogbeast back, Toppling it in the process. 

Mom and Momma wasted no time capitalizing; Mom carved into Kurodil with her left whipsword, then her right, followed by a simultaneous strike that blossomed blue flames outward. Not wanting to be left out, Sena called out, “Mom, get Theory and Praxis ready!” as she extended the head of her hammer before leaping upward. “Pressure Drop!” she yelled out as she brought her hammer down, Launching Kurodil skyward as the Flame Bolt took effect. 

“As we practiced, ladies!” Mom commanded, wreathed in golden light. She slashed Theory’s Exorcist’s Katana across the Launched Fogbeast before tossing it back to Theory. Theory’s normally serious face cracked into the ever so slightest of smiles as she unleashed a flurry of icy slashes, tearing into Kurodil without hesitation or a shred of mercy, before tossing her weapon back to Mom for a single, powerful finisher. Just as the Ultimate Aurora took hold, the weapon in Mom’s hand changed into Praxis’ Lance of Banishing, which mom brought down with full force as she leapt into the air, sending Kurodil mask-first into the ground with a satisfying Smash. 

“Did we get ‘em?” Sena asked. As if to answer her, Kurodil stood, now orbited by a frigid elemental orb, and tore off its damaged mask.

“It looks angry. Is it angry?” Sena asked. Sure enough, it let out a mighty roar from its Aligo-like maw, becoming enveloped in an ethereal, light-blue aura Sena had never seen a monster use before. 

“Um, what’s with the light?” She asked nervously as she continued attacking the beast. 

“Bad news is what!” Pandoria answered. 

“Elemental Awakening,” Mom explained as she expertly dodged the enraged Kurodil’s strikes. “It is a temporary state of increased power triggered by completing a Blade Combo.”

“The target can draw power from the residual elemental energy,” Momma continued as Sena tried to drive the creature backwards with no success. “I thought it was something only the Nopon Archsage was capable of inducing in his creations!”

“How do we stop it?” Sena asked, blowing through the monster's attempts at blocking her attacks thanks to the aura coursing through her ether lines. 

“None of those fancy Ouroboros classes you’ve got happen to wield a Monado, do they?” Uncle Zeke asked as he attempted to cleave into Kurodil with Pandoria’s weapon.

“There’s one someone just unlocked,” Sena lamented, “but I don’t have access to it yet!”

“Damn. The old-fashioned way will have to do then,” Zeke replied. He turned to Mom and Momma, “Mòrag, think we can pull off a Mega Explosion?”

“With the Awakening, I don’t think we have the time!” Mom replied as she expertly wove through a storm of gunfire. “We could try Electrofire Storm?” she suggested. “We’ll need to use our Diver Combo at specific times, but it should give us just enough time if we do it right!”

“Sounds worth a shot to me!” Sena agreed. “On your mark, Mom!”

“Zeke, Pandoria! Hit it with Volt!” Mom commanded. 

“With pleasure!” Zeke bellowed out before tossing Pandoria her weapon. Wreathed in electrical ether, Pandoria flung the Blade portion of her Blade at Kurodil. The sword hovered in the air for just a moment before crashing into the beast, discharging a truly impressive amount of electricity. Sena was so distracted by the display, she almost didn’t see the massive energy building from the cannon on its back. The barrel was black as night, and just looking at it made Sena shiver. 

“Shit!” Mom swore, which was very surprising in and of itself. She seemed to recognize the attack from her previous encounter. “No time, Sena, Break it now!”

Sena wasted no time unleashing her inner inferno, Breaking Kurodil and interrupting whatever deadly Art it had been in the process of using. “You want more?” she taunted. Her sense of accomplishment was short-lived, however, when the monster quickly dropped to all fours, completely shrugging off Uncle Zeke’s attempt to Topple it, and charged her. She was launched skyward, then felt a heavy slam as she was smashed into the ground. Her last thought as her world went dark was that she could hear her moms calling her name.

Notes:

Phew! Made it! This took… *checks notes* three months longer to release than I meant it to. I hope it was worth the wait!

Chapter 15: Those Who Stand Against Our Path

Summary:

The deadly duel with Gloomwalker Kurodil continues.

Miyabi

Mio charged ahead of their group, Firelight Swords in hand, and engaged the towering beast that roared in defiance as Miyabi quickly tried to survey the battlefield. To her right, King Zeke fought alongside Queen Pandoria and a Blade that Miyabi had never met. To her left, the quartet of women that included Sena’s moms seemed enraged. Taion quickly moved to support them, his Mondo providing some much-needed healing. Sena’s moms were monopolizing the Fogbeast’s attention, each strike imbued with a fury like none Miyabi had ever witnessed.

It didn’t take her long to discover why. On the far side of the battlefield, Sena lay, unmoving, on the ground. Without hesitation, Miyabi rushed towards her friend, heart heavy with worry. This only grew as she neared and saw the sickening puddle of ether and blood pooling around Sena. “No!” she shouted involuntarily as she closed the remaining distance. 

Miyabi knelt, unbothered by Sena’s blood now staining her legs. That didn’t matter right now. The only thing that mattered was saving Sena. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Sena’s Core begin to flicker slightly. She didn’t have much time. “Taion!” she cried out. “Sena needs help! Now!”

“I can’t get to you!” he replied, barely dodging a swing of the beast’s massive, clawed foreleg. “This thing has us pinned down!” Miyabi’s stomach twisted into a knot. She was going to have to do this alone. I’ve never been much of a traditional healer, she thought, but I have to try!

She tried to remember what Eunie had taught her. Right. Find the site of the injury first, so you can stop the bleeding. It didn’t take very long at all. Despite several minor wounds along Sena’s legs, it became clear that the main source of her bleeding was a nasty gash on the back of her head. 

The flashes of light, electricity, and fire in Miyabi’s periphery faded into the background as she focused on pouring all of the ether she could into Sena, desperately attempting to close the wound. She found the tears in Sena’s blood vessels and ether lines, difficult to identify due to the gristly nature of the wound. 

“The trick,” Eunie had instructed her in the Medical Facility of the City, “is to give up on the idea of gettin’ it perfect. That’s what Docs like Hollis are for. When you’re on a battlefield, you ain’t got time to be surgically precise. All you gotta do is either do well enough to get ‘em back up and in the fight, or get ‘em outta harm’s way and keep ‘em stable long enough that a real doctor can take a look at ‘em.”

“But what if I get it wrong?” she had asked, worried. 

Eunie had simply shaken her head, “The body is pretty snuffin’ good at knowing how to patch itself up. All we’re really doin’ is giving it a quick jolt of ether to get the job done faster. Obviously, it works better if you know what’s broken, so you can concentrate it there, but anything you wanna know that’s more technical, that’s over my head, love.”

“Come on, Sena! Don’t die on me! Please, not after everything we’ve been through.” Miyabi herself nearly passed out from the effort, but she would not, could not , stop. She closed her eyes and tried to pour every last drop of strength she had left into Sena. 

 

Sena

“Bee?” Sena’s voice came, weak and shaky. 

Miyabi kneeled over her, a look of pure relief on her face. Before she could process why, a splitting pain reverberated through her skull. “Owwwwwww,” Sena complained, “my head is killing me.”

Miyabi wrapped Sena in a hug, “Thank goodness you’re okay!” 

Sena returned her embrace. “Sorry I worried you, Bee. I got careless.”

“You’ll have plenty of time to make it up to me later,” Miyabi replied as she stood, arms shaking with barely contained emotion. “But first, somebody needs to be taught a lesson!” All Sena could do was watch in awe and disbelief as Miyabi, covered in Sena’s blood, slowly walked forward towards the Fogbeast, Blade drawn, like an incarnation of some divine reaper. 

“You!” she cried out. “I think you’ve rampaged QUITE ENOUGH!” Twin, crescent moon-shaped beams of ether were flung from Miyabi’s Blade. The beams themselves did not appear to do much damage, but the instant they made contact, the threatening aura of Kurodil’s Elemental Awakening winked out of existence. In that moment, with Miyabi illuminated from the front by the elemental orbs orbiting Kurodil in her battle pose, she looked like an Angel of Death. Sena almost couldn’t bring herself to look away. 

She shook her head -which hurt like hell- and tried to catch herself up on the state of the battle. New orbs of fire and wind had joined the existing orb of ice. 

Uncle Zeke shouted, “Sena, Mòrag, Mio! We need a Nuclear Blast! One more orb, and a Chain Attack can do the rest!”

“That’s way too risky!” Taion countered as he reapplied Hazy Figure to Mom and her Blades. “You might not be able to trigger a Full Burst in time! You’d need a water orb to guarantee it!”

“Can’t afford to play it safe, chap!” Zeke retorted. “If it uses its finisher, we’re all toast without Nia!”

“But-“ Taion began before Momma cut him off. 

“Taion, go support Zeke. Make sure he doesn’t fall, we’ll take care of the rest.”

Miyabi’s flute cut across the battlefield, revitalizing them all with her inspiring song. Zeke smiled as he removed his eyepatch. “Time to break out the Eye of Shining Justice!” Sena had only heard rumors of Uncle Zeke’s mythical Eye of Shining Justice before. In truth, like many others, she assumed it was a hoax, a part of Zeke’s heroic persona used to spice up the stories he told about his days adventuring. 

As it turns out, she couldn’t have been more wrong. For a moment he just stood there, wreathed in crackling electricity that charged the atmosphere around them. Then Sena understood why he’d earned the title of ‘Thunderbolt’. His body was a blur. He moved at impossible speeds, swinging Pandoria’s Blade around like it weighed nothing at all. There was no break in his assault, no cooldown on his attacks. He and Pandoria had turned into an unstoppable maelstrom of lightning. The only person Sena had ever seen use a sword that swiftly had been N, and he’d been using a Blade that literally allowed him to break the rules of the universe.

Now, however, was the time to focus. She began charging up her Pressure Drop, ready to lend her support to the combo her moms had started while she’d been distracted by her uncle and aunt’s dizzying display of raw offensive might. Miyabi stood beside her, bolstering her strength and speed with her Empty Shell. Sena once again knocked Kurodil off-balance. Mimi capitalized immediately, the replica of her dad’s salvager anchor wrapping around the Fogbeast’s leg. Or at least, Sena had assumed it was Mimi until she heard, “Alright Mythra, bring it home!” Apparently, Uncle Rex, Auntie Pyra, and Auntie Mythra had joined the fight while she’d been captivated by Miyabi. What is up with me today? I’m not normally this distractible in a fight. 

As Kurodil lit up in a Nuclear Blast, she heard Auntie Mythra call out, “Time to kick it up a notch! Rex! Sis! Like we practiced!” 

Taion, never one to miss a cue, called out, “Ouroboros! Time to unite!” as his Iris lit up. Sena felt herself fade into light as she quickly followed suit.

 

Pneuma

“Time to change the rules!” Pneuma exclaimed as the overwhelming might of the Conduit’s energy flowed through her once again. The emulator Shulk and Tora had designed worked perfectly. She immediately rewrote the very fabric of reality in their surroundings, altering those fighting alongside her to be swifter, more precise, and their weapons keener. She tried not to get distracted by Rex’s Master Driver armor, which somehow looked even better on him than it had twenty years ago. 

“Alright Pyra, let’s close that rift!” Rex called out as he tossed her the true Aegis Sword.

As she claimed the sword that was her divine birthright, Ouroboros and their friends continued to engage Kurodil. With words she hadn’t spoken since their fight with Aion, Pneuma called out, “Genesis Saber!” Hard light echoes of her weapon criss-crossed the battlefield, devastating her foes while leaving her allies untouched. The Fog Rift all but imploded on impact, unable to stand up to her and her Driver’s divine might. 

“Ouroboros!” Mòrag said as she dodged a hail of gunfire with impossible precision. “Can you Topple it?”

“Yes ma’am!” came the combination of Noah and Mio’s voices. “Taion, Eunie, you ready?”

“On your command,” Taion acknowledged. 

“Here we go!” Mio shouted. Mio’s Ouroboros rushed in, then leapt nearly forty feet in the air before coming down hard with a powerful drop kick from their right leg that unsteadied Kurodil. Without even a second’s delay, the line of Mondo created by Taion’s Ouroboros crashed into the Fogbeast, sending it tumbling to the ground. If she’d blinked, she would have missed the moment that Sena’s Ouroboros rushed forward and smashed the earth beneath Kurodil before lifting the entire Fogbeast and throwing it skyward. It was time.

“Let’s give ‘em the full treatment!” Rex called out, as he tossed her weapon to her.

Pneuma wasted no time, her mind resolving the mental calculus required in a mere moment. From somewhere well beyond the boundaries of their world, she called on the energies of the Conduit as she wove a tight circle with her sword. Reality was torn asunder for the briefest of moments as a torrent of pure ether energy from beyond shot forward in a beam. The blast landed precisely where she had hoped, piercing all four elemental orbs in the split second they were all aligned.

Rex had only just grasped the sword when the bolt of lightning impacted the ice orb. Pandoria’s efforts had nearly shattered it. Meanwhile, the wind orb had been battered by the trio of ice shards from Theory, and Pneuma turned just in time to see the beam of frigid energy from Theory’s follow-up slash cleave the orb cleanly in two. In the corner of her eye, Pneuma could see Zenobia rushing to defend Miyabi. She could spare the former Off-Seer no mind now though, as Pneuma caught her blade and she rose into the air as time slowed to a relative crawl. With speed that would have made Jin jealous, she delivered a series of brutal slashes faster than light from every angle on the titan, being sure to weaken the remaining orbs as she did so, shattering the icy orb on impact, before reappearing at Rex’s side. 

Pandoria expertly manipulated her Blade into a whirling disc of electrified death, crashing it into the weakened orb of light, destroying it, as Brighid delivered the coup de grâce to the fire orb with a torrent of flames from her weapons. The air around them couldn’t take anymore, with so much ether energy unleashed at once, it went the only place it could: the eager crystals on the Blade weapons of their group, supercharging them for a brief time.

“Brighid! Form the third!” As Rex and Zeke tore into the monster, Pneuma could see flames dance along the twin whipswords of her dear friend as Mòrag and Brighid raised the weapons in unison. The couple then become a storm of raging azure flames as they performed an intricate series of cross slashes in perfect unison, before causing the inferno they had made beneath the creature to erupt with unbridled fury only a mother could truly know. It proved too much for Kurodil. The Fogbeast was eviscerated with their combined might, fading to nothing as the energy of their assault dissipated. Pneuma smiled as her Conduit emulator ran out of energy, and she separated into her other selves once again. 

 

Noah/Mio

“Is it over?” Zeke asked, replacing his eyepatch, sealing the Eye of Shining Justice until its awesome power was needed once again. 

“We’re not out of the woods yet,” Taion cautioned. “ There’s still the matter of the black fog.”

Rex nodded. “Keep yourselves Interlinked for now. We might need that raw strength to evacuate people.”

“Alright people!” Mythra bellowed. “Let’s move it! Those timers are limited and we have a village to evacuate!”

Their group became a flurry of activity, coordinating with the Garfont Mercenaries and the Free Four to evacuate New Garfont Village. Noah and Mio darted around, aiding Juniper in their scouting for stragglers. When they found people who were trapped, they relayed the information to Taion who directed Sena and Lanz to move the debris and free them. In a matter of minutes, their coordinated efforts had managed to clear the village of any stragglers. A good thing too, since they were pushing up against the limit of their Interlink timer. Or at least, that’s what Noah and Mio had believed until from the edge of the village they heard an extremely faint cry for help coming from nearby the grand saffronia. Before they could react, Taion called out, “Time’s up! The activity in the fog just spiked. This whole village is about to blow.” He and Eunie erected their Ouroboros’ defensive shield, protecting the residents behind them from the blast.

“Taion, wait, I just heard a cry for help!” Mio protested. “Someone’s still trapped in the cave below the saffronia!” The wind picked up, although less wind and more sucking force. It feels like it did before O and P annihilated. We’re too late. As Noah and Mio resigned themselves to leaving this unfortunate soul, whoever they may be, to their fate, they both watched in abject horror as Sena rushed forward. “Sena, stop!” Mio screamed, trying desperately to be heard over the roar of the wind. “There’s no time! You won’t make it back!”

“Trust me!” she retorted. “Taion, get ready to catch them! Like you caught us outside Li Garte!” Over the din of the building annihilation, they heard the sound of a rock being hurled and impacting somewhere far away. Noah and Mio were forced to erect their own shield to keep from being sucked in. “Incoming!” Sena’s voice shouted. The next few moments felt like time slowed to a crawl. A pink Nopon child flew through the air into Taion’s waiting Mondo as the world in front of them went black. The sphere of black fog then erupted in blinding white light, robbing everyone nearby of their vision for a moment. A cacophonous clap of thunder rang out as air rushed to fill the void of nothingness that had just been created. Before they could even begin to process the perfectly spherical crater where New Garfont had been, another flash of light, much less intense, appeared above its center, before rapidly falling to the bottom of the crater. Somehow, defying everything Noah and Mio understood about Annihilation Events, Sena had been in the epicenter of one, and appeared completely unscathed. The backlash had been too much on their shields, however, and Noah and Mio were forced to cancel their Interlink before either could truly process what had just happened.

Notes:

A bit on the shorter side this time, but I wanted to publish something rather than keep writing and hope another stopping point presented itself in a timely manner. I hope you all enjoyed it! How did Sena and Lanz manage to survive an Annihilation Event, I wonder?