Chapter 1: Reunion in Violet
Chapter Text
Blinding light pierced through Saphyra’s eyelids and as she opened her eyes the world around her was… purple? Shielding her sensitive eyes from the light, she got up from the ground as she tried to take in her surroundings. This place was something unlike anything she had ever seen before, the foliage was entirely purple, from the grass to the bushes and the trees, it was enchanting. The light from above however felt extremely unnatural, it did not seem to come from any sun, but the sky itself seemed to be the source of it, shining bright rays down in all directions.
She dusted off her newly donned attire that she had received from Tataru not long ago. She looked like an oddly dark figure in contrast to her colorful surroundings now. It was kind of Tataru to gift her something new after she had ruined basically all her good clothing in the Far East. She had not been able to speak much after everything that had happened and the stress of losing every single Scion around her had taken its toll. It had taken Saphyra long enough to be finally open about her struggles and let them in, even rely on them a little and when that had finally happened, they had collapsed one by one.
With everything going on she could not constantly travel back and forth to Ala Mhigo to bother Lyse about this either. So as a final gift from her she had taught Saphyra a hairstyle from Gyr Abania, the Gyr Abanian plait. She always used to wear her hair long black hair down, but now it was neatly braided near her face in the front instead of bangs and her face was framed with loose locks. On the side there was an additional braid, and in the back, she had a big ponytail. “In case you ever get in another fight, although I know you would rather rest forever,” Lyse had smiled at her sadly.
She had appreciated the gesture more than she could express, she had trouble expressing herself ever since Zenos killed himself in front of her and stained her body with his blood. But she tried, for everyone and for herself as well, to just keep going one step at a time. Otherwise, all the bloodshed had been for nothing. And now she was here, wherever this was. When she was pulled to this place, she was plagued by memories from the past. Haurchefant, Ysayle, even the Warrior of Darkness, but also Minfilia. She had no idea what this place would bring, but if those memories were a sign of what was to come, it did not bode well for her.
As she walked for a while she noticed a man sitting near a campfire nearby. He looked oddly familiar, just like Brennan, whom she met years ago now when she left the Sagolii Desert after her search ended and started working in Ul’dah at the Quicksand as a barmaid and later a pianist on the side. This man had an oddly similar face, beard and eyes even, it unnerved her. While she was pondering this, the man called out to her in a friendly voice: “Rare to meet someone out here who’s not a peddler themselves. What brings you into the wilds this time o’ night?”
She walked up to him to get a better look, aside from the color of his beard and his clothes, he looked exactly like Brennan, just older perhaps. “What do you mean, ‘this time of night’?” Saphyra asked, confusion clear in her voice and gesturing at the bright sky above them.
The man before her started laughing. “Well, if it ain’t the oldest joke in the book. Me grandad – gods rest his soul – used to tell that one to the barman at kickin’-out time. “An' when, pray tell, did we last have a dark night? Ye rotten old drunk ye!” he'd reply. “Over a hundred bleedin' years ago, that's when!” Saphyra just stared at him. Plagued by light for over a hundred years? Ascians of course. They had been on their trail before she crossed the rift, but what in the world did they do to this place?
“Hm! You’ve got that look down to a tee. I’d almost think you meant it…” He offered her a swig from his bottle of wine. Saphyra had enough experience with being poisoned these past few years to not take drinks from strangers that she did not see poured herself, so she refused with a firm shake of her head.
“Ahhh, got to you, did they? Poor beggar. That explains it then. Well, I’ve roads to travel and wares to sell, but you – you’d best hurry along to the town nearby. Just head east through the trees and aim for the shining tower. You’ll find the place soon enough. ‘Tis the biggest settlement for malms around. Go on, now, friend. They’ll take good care of you in the Crystarium.”
She smiled at him as she bid him farewell and wished him safe travels, having no idea whether these roads were dangerous or not, she took out her staff just to be safe. Despite the eerie light all around she could not help but be enchanted by the purple foliage, it was beautiful to look at. Within minutes she understood what the man had meant, the shining tower was not just any shining tower. It was the Crystal Tower. What was that doing here?! She just left the Crystal Tower in the Source to travel to some place unknown, how could it be here? Unless it existed in multiple places at once?
As her thoughts started racing so were her footsteps, her pace steadily increasing from a normal walking speed to running as she headed towards the tower, ignoring her surroundings entirely. “Halt!” a woman shouted at her, and she nearly ran into a tall tan Viera woman with long white hair, wearing an armor as if she was a soldier. Saphyra abruptly stopped before her.
“Every face in this city I know. Yours I do not. This is the threshold of the Crystarium, stranger, and I am its gatekeeper. If you would enter, you will answer my questions. From where do you hail?” she asked sternly.
“Originally or where I live? Those are two different answers,” Saphyra replied too fast, only realizing when she said this that this was probably the least clever thing she could have said.
“Don’t be smart with me, just answer the question.”
“The Sagolii Desert, but I mostly travel around the world, so there is no real place I call home anymore.”
“Do you take me for a fool? No such place exists.” The woman replied clearly tired of her. “Had you given me an honest answer, I would not have barred your way – we care little here for a person’s place of origin. But instead, you chose concealment, and I will not suffer you to pass…”
Right as the said that a creature Saphyra had never seen before appeared behind them. Its body was white as snow and its limbs were unnaturally stretched, but still humanoid in some way, if not for the claws where the hands and feet would normally be and the wings on its back. Where there would normally be a face, there was a beasts head, more resembling a skull of a horse, half concealed by what she could only assume was hair. From its head sprung some form of horns that resembled a type of winglike shape and one of them had broken off. Lastly it had a long tail, almost like if an Au Ra had turned into a birdlike or eldritch angelic being.
Lyna moved past Saphyra with her Dancer’s chakrams, swiftly killing the creature with precise throws of her sharp circular weapons. She had seen other Miqo’te dancing with them in Ul’dah, but never actually seen them used in combat, this woman was clearly very skilled.
As the creature dispersed into a bright flash of light, only a ring remained. She recognized the ring… it had been the one the travelling merchant had been wearing, the one she had spoken to only moments before.
“That one had eaten. It must have gulped down the whole hand, ring and all…” The gateguard spoke softly.
Saphyra’s stomach turned into knots. So, it was as she expected, the creature had killed him. What was wrong with this place? It was deceptively beautiful, but extremely dangerous. She felt guilty for leaving the man alone, she could have protected him easily. If the guard could have taken it out on her own, one would have been no match for her.
Suddenly she heard footsteps approaching and a familiar male voice reached her ears. “Everything alright, Captain?”
“Quite alright, my lord. Just a stray sin eater, and a weak one at that.”
My lord? Sin eater? The amount of new information took her a moment so she could not interject in the conversation. Before her stood someone she knew but should not even be here at all, he should be locked away in the Crystal Tower, asleep, for many years to come, as he had promised her when they bid their melancholic farewells a long time ago.
“I see. Weak or not, we should be on the lookout for more. But I see you’ve met my guest. I will escort her to the Crystarium myself… if you’ve no objections?”
“Another of your mysterious friends, is it? I should have known. Very well I’ll inform the others your guest is to be given run of the city. Pray forgive my less-than-cordial welcome. My name is Lyna. May the rest of your stay with us be a pleasant one.” She smiled at Saphyra before nodding at the hooded man before her.
“Come with me. I will answer whatever questions you have when we are somewhere more private.” He spoke to Saphyra, unaware of her inner turmoil. The smaller hooded man put a hand on her upper back and ushered her away from the gate towards the path to the city in the distance.
“Right, then. Before we plunge into the wheres and wherefores, let me first thank you for answering my summons. I had intended to bring you directly to my personal quarters, but I fear my aim was… slightly off. That you were still able to make the crossing unharmed is… a great relief.”
“Slightly off is quite the understatement. I landed in a field nowhere near civilization,” Saphyra said coldly, containing her anger. She wanted to get as much information as she could out of him before she would lunge at him. He nervously rubbed his left hand on his right arm and Saphyra noticed it was entirely made of crystal. It had the same hue as the Crystal Tower, how curious.
He cleared his throat. “And so, we come to the question of where. The realm in which you find yourself belongs to one of the thirteen reflections or shards – the First, to be precise – even if its inhabitants are largely oblivious to the fact. As to wherefore… Having been awarded the rather grandiose title of “Crystal Exarch,” I -in my capacity as caretaker of the Crystarium – thought to seek the aid of you and your companions.” He seemed nervous as he spoke those last words.
“Where are the others, G’raha Tia?” Saphyra hissed at him. She was tired of him talking around the important matters. She would think about the other information later when she had some time alone.
“G-G’raha Tia? I don’t know of whom you speak!” He said, clearly nervous about her sudden hostility.
Saphyra grabbed the front of his robe lifting him up so they could see eye to eye, his jewelry clinking together, and his staff hit the ground with a loud clang. She was only an ilm taller than him and he had been the same height back then. His voice was the same as well, even though his face was hidden, and his tail was probably hidden beneath those robes she knew she was not mistaken.
“Do.
Not.
Lie.
To.
Me.” She spoke in a low and angry voice. “If you think I will lift a single finger to help you if you lie to me, you have summoned the wrong person, G’raha Tia. I tire of your games. I should strike you down where you stand for what you did to the others. Perhaps that would teach you to improve your aim.”
The man before her seemed stunned by her words. “Cat got your tongue?” She chuckled. “I will reveal it myself then.” She pulled back his hood with her free left hand and he did not struggle. She saw fear in his bright red eyes as they stared back at her. It was unmistakenly G’raha Tia whom she held ham-fisted by his robes, despite his appearance being slightly different than she remembered. His dusty red hair had greyed at the ends and the crystallization she had noticed on his arm had also reached his right cheek.
“Was that so hard, G’raha?” She smiled at him; the anger still palpable in her voice and she let go of his robes. With a thud he landed back on the ground, stumbling a bit backwards but remaining on his feet.
“I can only beg your forgiveness – matters here forced my hand. But all shall be explained in due course, I promise you.” He said as he averted his eyes from her.
“Well, go on then, explain to me why it was necessary to tear the people whom I have finally started to trust from my side at the brink of war. Their bodies but a useless husk and none of us knowing where they went or if they were even able to return.” She yelled at him.
He looked up at her, guilt clear in his eyes. “I must start at the beginning I’m afraid. Look to the glaring skies up above. Here in the First, the world has been all but consumed by primordial Light. It began a century ago, a luminous flood swallowing everything in its path. More than nine-tenths of this star was lost. The fortunate few who survived are hounded by abominations born of that catastrophe even now. “Sin eaters,” we call them. The creature you saw earlier was one such monstrosity.”
It was indeed a sight she had not forgotten yet. The travelling merchant had been eaten by the monster and she still felt the guilt of not being able to protect him.
“It was to save the First from this menace that I learned to bridge the rift between worlds – that I might call upon the aid of the greatest of heroes. Though it meant depriving a world of its champion, I had to try – for in saving the First, you would also bring salvation to the Source as well.” He said hesitantly, awaiting Saphyra’s reaction.
“So, when you attempted your fumbled summoning of my friends you were only aiming for me?” Saphyra laughed. “And after one failed attempt you did not think to change your methods or try another way to reach me? One or two was not enough?!” She spat out. “You anger me, G’raha. I do not know how you got here to the First, but I did not care to keep on living and carrying the mantle of the hero in the Source. There has been too much blood on my hands. You have been locked in that tower for a long time. I do not know what you remember or think to remember, but I am no longer who I was.”
“I do not know what to say,” he responded with disappointment in his voice.
“However, you have forced my hand. If my friends had found a way to return, they would have done so. Something is keeping them here; therefore, I will seek them out on my terms and learn what it is what keeps them occupied here. My words might seem harsh to you G’raha, but if you had only summoned me, I would have happily given my life so that others may live. I do not value it that much.”
She looked at him, waiting for a response. He did not give her any, but looked away, hiding his face from her as he put his hood back up. “Please follow me to the Crystarium, I would like to introduce you to its people, I’m sure you’ll find them interesting if that part about you hasn’t changed.”
They walked in silence to the Crystarium, the spire of the Crystal tower looming over the city as it came into full view. Saphyra’s anger subsided slowly as they came closer to the city. She was in awe of the architecture; it was in combination with the purple foliage of the area just as beautiful. The combination of stone, metal beams and blue glass was welcoming and let the light shine in the interior in a very enchanting way. As they reached the edge of the city, she saw an aetheryte in the distance. Perhaps she could return home if anything went awry in the Source?
“And here we are. Welcome, my friend, to the Crystarium.” G’raha introduced her.
“I am not your friend anymore, G’raha. As it stands right now, we are strangers, just as I am a stranger to this land.”
Chapter 2: Rage and Respite
Notes:
Saphyra doesn't always make the best choices haha. But I am happy to introduce my favourite character and I am very nervous I will not do him justice. I would like to note that I play the game in Japanese so how I remember what everyone voices sound like :D Songs played in order when they play together are Fauré: Élégie Op.24 and Rachmaninoff's Cello Sonata in G Minor, Op. 19 III. Adante. I hope you enjoy!
Chapter Text
Saphyra’s introduction to the First was anything but calm and quiet like G’raha Tia had probably hoped, but she did not care. After she was introduced to the city and she pronounced them strangers, he had offered her to speak further in privacy, which she begrudgingly accepted. She had hoped to learn the whereabouts of her friends as soon as possible so he would get out of her hair. He implored her to speak with some civic leaders of the Crystarium, so she did.
She spoke to Katliss, the spokeswoman of the collective of gatherers and crafters first, who divulged that the Crystal Tower had been here for decades, and that G’raha Tia had been deceptive about his identity to them as well. She spoke to Moren the librarian secondly and he was quite an interesting fellow. His tale about the Flood of Light spoke to her imagination, perhaps Urianger could take a lesson on storytelling from him. Lastly, she spoke to Bragi, the master of the markets, who mostly talked about the markets and when he called her a Mystel, he started explaining how every race was called in the First, quite different from the Source.
Finished with her end of the bargain she made her way to the Crystal Tower’s entrance where she had agreed to meet G’raha Tia. She gave a brief overview of what she had learned, and he nodded. “I see, that was a most thorough introduction, albeit a necessary one. As for the Crystal Tower’s origin, you probably noticed that the details were sparse. The structure is, in fact, the selfsame one you know from the Source, transported to the First in its entirety. It was my first attempt at breaching the boundaries between worlds – something of a trial run for your eventual crossing. Although I do not know which era I tore it from, I do know that its arrival served to set the wheels of fate in motion.”
“I held up my end of the bargain, where are my friends?” Saphyra replied coldly.
“You’ve indeed done as I requested. That is a conversation I would rather have in the privacy of my quarters, however. Let us head inside. I shall also see to it that the guard knows to admit you in the future.”
They walked towards the large ornate doors of the Crystal Tower that Saphyra remembered as if she stood in front of them just yesterday when G’raha Tia had sealed himself inside to wait for a time well beyond her lifetime. They had been friends back then, a different time, a different place. Saphyra’s eyes were still a sapphire green, not bloodstained red from the poison exhumed by the Cloud of Darkness she fought during the final exploration of the Crystal Tower. Should she not be happy to see him again after all this time? She thought about him often when they had parted ways, but he made his choice, so she chose to experience new adventures and carry his legacy as well. But now his hands were also tainted by personal motivations, just like many others she had nearly given her life for these past few years.
The gigantic doors opened for them, and G’raha Tia instructed the guard to let her in in the future. She remembered the inside of the Tower very well; the brilliant glistening crystal was breathtakingly beautiful, and she reminisced on her earlier exploration of the Tower as they climbed several stairs. “Welcome to the Ocular, my private study. We can speak here without fear of being overheard.” He gestured widely with his arm to show off the room.
The Ocular was unfamiliar to her, she had not seen it during her initial explorations of the Tower. An intricate circular pattern on the floor caught her eye and it reminded her of the constellations she studied when she picked up astrology in Ishgard. The large deep golden ornamental doors and the detailing on the walls however were familiar to her. Yet the largest structure behind G’raha Tia caught her eye, a set of stairs led towards it. It almost seemed like a crystal door without a handle or some kind of mirror.
Saphyra crossed her arms, waiting for him to start talking. “I have much to explain, but the truths which I must touch upon in doing so would cause only distress and confusion to the people of this world. Pray keep that in mind and I ask for your utmost discretion regarding my identity. To put it simply, the Scions are here in the First… Their arrival, however, was not as recent as you may imagine. Here, time flows at a different pace from that of the source. In the space of a single hour in your home world, an entire year might pass in the first – and the reverse could also be true. The pace fluctuates without rhyme or reason, and it cannot be predicted.” He spoke hesitantly to gauge Saphyra’s reaction.
She could not help it; her anger was already resurfacing while being presented with this new information. She tried to keep it down for now, waiting for the eventual bomb to drop, she needed to know how much he messed up.
“That said, we seem to be entering a period of near-equivalence, and thus for the moment, you need not overly concern yourself with the passage of time. As for your friends, Y’shtola and Urianger have dwelled here for three winters, while Thancred’s count stands at five. Even our more “recent” arrivals, Alphinaud and Alisaie, have lived in the First for almost a year.” G’raha said, averting his eyes.
“FIVE YEARS?!” Saphyra yelled. “FIVE BLOODY YEARS?!” She lunged forward and her fist arced towards his head connecting with a heavy blow on the right side of his face. Crack. “FUCK! I FORGOT YOUR STUPID FACE IS CRYSTALIZED, THAT HURTS, GODS!” Both Saphyra and G’raha Tia stumbled away from each other in pain. Her rage and pain were fighting for dominance inside her as she grabbed her hand to check her injuries. Some of her fingers were clearly broken, gods that is inconvenient and annoying to heal. Her star globe is somewhere in her bags but taking it out with one hand is a hassle.
“You have every right to be upset with me, but please hear me out first. And let me see to your wounds.” G’raha pleaded with her. When she looked up, he had removed his hood and she saw blood dripping from his face while he was healing himself already. She had hit him well, the sight should not please her, but it did.
“Fine, but only because it is inconvenient to open my bag with one hand to see to my wounds myself.” She replied brusquely.
As he finished closing the wounds on his own face, he reached out his hand for hers. She laid her hand in his and he put his healing magicks to work. She instantly felt relief and her the stinging pain ebbed away quickly. “There, all fixed, it might feel a little stiff for an hour or two but that should be gone soon.”
“Thank you for healing me, even though you absolutely deserved that punch. I am still very upset with you, G’raha, this does not change that. But I will hear you out and try to keep my cool and not hit you again.”
“That would prove to be a much easier conversation then. My intention had been to summon only you, but the art of reaching across worlds has proven exceedingly difficult to master. Thus, it was that my fumbling hand closed upon those to whom your fate is most closely bound as well. As they were not the object of my summons… their transference was incomplete. This you have observed on the Source.” G’raha continued his explanation hesitantly.
Saphyra just nodded, trying to keep her word. “Though they may appear to possess corporeal bodies, they are, in truth, merely spirits that one can see and touch. While you yourself will be able to pass between worlds with relative freedom, they will not. I’m sorry, Saphyra, but they are stranded here, unable to return.”
“I had surmised as much myself. I assume you have not found a way to send them back either then since they spent years here, so what have they been doing all this time?” Saphyra asked as she stretched her fingers, trying to get rid of the stiff feeling in them.
“Indeed, in the beginning we spent every waking hour for a way to reverse the summoning. However, once Urianger shared with us the vision he had witnessed during his journey through the rift, our goals changed. What Urianger saw… was the future. In his vision of tomorrow, the First was rejoined with the Source… This collision of worlds brought about the Eighth Umbral Calamity, and the deaths of countless multitudes. Amongst those who perished, Urianger clearly saw the fall of the Scions’ mightiest champion. He watched you die.”
G’raha paused for a moment. Saphyra just stood there, waiting for him to continue. Knowing her friends they were working on a way to prevent this from taking place, they would not let something like this slide. Even if she struggled to keep living, they would not let a catastrophic event make that choice for her, of that she was certain. A sobering thought for sure.
“And thus did the Scions embrace their exile and began searching this world for a means to forestall the coming catastrophe in yours. Their souls are stranded in the first, but they have fought on, desperate to save their home – and you – from destruction. Their efforts have not been in vain, for it was they who finally established that the elimination of the sin eaters will indeed serve to prevent the calamity. I understand you will doubt my version of events, so I suggest tracking down your friends to hear the tale from their lips. I shall be happy to assist in those reunions and you need not make any decisions regarding your involvement until you are certain of where you stand.” G’raha said softly.
“I shall see to that as soon as possible, as I think I have made my current stance clear enough. I know I cannot persuade my friends to pursue a different path. And I know they would do anything to save their home. If it was just for me, I would have asked them to return home instead, there is no need to suffer so much on my behalf.”
“I know much time has passed since I sealed myself in the Tower, but I still believe you’re a person worth saving.” G’raha murmured. Saphyra did not know what to say in response to this, so she kept quiet. She felt uncomfortable in his presence and wanted to leave. He tries so hard to be familiar with her, but it is not the same anymore.
“I promise I will not rest until I have found a way to help your friends return home. Please, have I not earned your trust even slightly for the moment at least?” G’raha pleaded with her.
“As I have no other choice, fine. But one wrong move and I will make you regret everything you pleaded for, is that clear, G’raha?” Saphyra said as she looked in his eyes, hoping to find a shred of sincerity there, hoping he was not lying to her about everything he had said.
“Crystal.”
“Is there a piano somewhere in the Crystarium? While I am in this world I would still like to play, it would remind me of home,” Saphyra asked.
G’raha Tia looked a bit surprised but smiled at her. “I am glad you asked. I remembered you played so I had one made a long time ago. It’s located in The Wandering Stairs, where patrons often gather to drink and make merry. I’m sure Glynard would appreciate it. I will show it to you after I have shown you your lodgings and to meet someone special, I’m sure you’ll find them delightful.”
G’raha Tia introduced her to the Manager of Suites and said that her room would be ready for her whenever she would return later at the Pendants. After this they headed to the Musica Universalis, the commercial heart of the Crystarium, where every basic need could be bought with her regular currency, how convenient. The interesting person G’raha wanted her to meet, was indeed very interesting, however entity or creature was a more accurate description.
As G’raha called out to them, they were graced with the presence of Feo Ul of the pixies, a small orange haired pixie with pink wings and a cute high voice. Saphyra thought they were delightful. “From this moment forth, I will be your [beautiful branch], and you my [adorable sapling]! Like the branch which sprouts from the sapling, our bond will flow unbroken from one to the other! Raise your hand.”
Saphyra raised her hand and the pixie raised hers too and she saw a light emitting from the pixie which touched her. She felt a warm energy enveloping her body which tingled a little. “’Tis done! We are bound now, dearest sapling. Come, come then! Make your request! Tell me your desire! I wish to visit this world of yours!” Feo Ul beamed with energy as she made little backflips and fluttered around her.
“Mayhap a message to your friends in the Source to inform them of your safe arrival might be a good idea?” G’raha suggested. Saphyra nodded, that seemed the wisest thing to do, Tataru was probably very worried about everyone.
“Could you go see Tataru Taru? She is my friend, and she is currently in the Rising Stones in Mor Dhona in the Source. I want to tell her that I have arrived safely and that everyone else is here as well. Please tell her that she does not need to worry and that I will make sure that everyone will return home as soon as possible.”
“Consider it done!” Feo Ul exclaimed and disappeared with a poof.
“I quite like Feo Ul, they’re indeed a most interesting character. Could you show me where the piano is? I would like to be alone for a while,” Saphyra started immediately once Feo Ul had disappeared.
“Of course, follow me.”
The piano was placed in a nice spot overlooking the Musica Universalis and if you were seated your back was towards the bar. Surprisingly, it was a beautiful dark brown wooden grand piano, unlike the upright piano she played in Ul’dah, but like the one she had played in the Fortemps Manor and sometimes in Aymeric’s manor. Now that they were in public again, Saphyra reverted to calling G’raha Tia by his title again, even though she disagreed with his secrecy, she was not that petty.
Saphyra ordered a bottle of wine at the bar and downed a glass first before asking Glynard, the barman if she could play the piano. “That’s alright lass, not many people use it, and the Exarch insists we keep it tuned for some reason. It will please the patrons if you’re a decent player.”
“Thank you, I used to be a pianist in my hometown, I will try to entertain them,” she smiled at him.
She dragged a nearby table close to the piano so she could put her bottle and glass on it to fill it whenever she felt like taking a sip and she started playing some old favorites that patrons in Ul’dah used to like. Bards from around Eorzea had taught her several songs that she used to play for people at night to earn extra coin to fund her thaumaturgy studies during her early adventuring days. During her time in Ishgard the Aymeric and Artoirel had mostly taught her classical pieces so they could play together and Artoirel had occasionally accompanied them on the cello.
After the had finished nearly most of her wine someone tapped on her shoulder. She recoiled out of instinct, a habit she had not been able to shake since the liberation war in the Far East. Unexpected physical touch made her jumpy. She looked to her left and saw a large black instrument coffer at first, but then she noticed the person holding it.
A tall, Garlean man, wearing a layered leather overcoat trimmed with fur and metal shoulder pieces, white gloves, a red sash and other intricate layers of ornate clothing stood next to her. Most striking about him was not necessarily his strange attire, but his hair was short and dark brown with one white streak on the left side. He had deep furrowed brows even though his face looked neutral, and his eyes were a beautiful gold. Yes, she admitted to herself, a beautiful gold. His face had sharpened features but some of them were also very soft, and his nose had a very particular shape. She found him very handsome, but perhaps that was the wine speaking.
“Would you care for a duet if you happen to know any classical pieces? I brought my cello.” The man asked her in a deep and melodic voice.
“Are there Garleans on the First?” Saphyra replied suspiciously.
The man sighed, a deeper frown forming on his face. He waved his hand and started to walk away. “I can tell when I’m unwanted, my apologies for interrupting your lovely playing, carry on…”
“Wait!” She exclaimed and reached for his arm stopping him from walking away. “I did not mean to be rude. This day has been… awful to say the least and playing piano is a way for me to unwind. I would love to play a duet together. In fact, I do know some classical pieces specifically for piano and cello.”
The man looked at her hand and touched it with his. “Apology accepted, let us play then.” She saw a faint smile on his lips making him even more handsome than he was before, without his intense frown he was quite charming as well. The man grabbed a chair from a nearby table and started unpacking his cello, setting it up near the piano. He removed his white gloves, and she admired the smoothness of his hands, noticing the absence of calluses on them.
She stretched her fingers, hoping that the warm-up of the evening was enough to fully remove the lingering stiffness she had earlier this evening from her healed broken fingers. “No need to be nervous, my dear, I am sure your playing is more than adequate,” the man said to her.
“That is not what I am worried about. I had some broken fingers earlier this afternoon and I hope the stiffness is gone so I can perform properly. I want to do this piece justice.”
“Broken fingers? What did you do, get into a fight?” He chuckled.
“Actually yes, I punched a man in the face, but he had more facial defense than I remembered,” she laughed.
“I will do well to remember not to incur your wrath then,” the man said solemnly as if he really meant it.
“It would be a shame to defile those handsome features of yours.” Saphyra looked at his red sash that was diagonally draped over his chest. “Although red is quite your color.”
He smirked, making him look incredibly smug. A blush colored her cheeks red, and she cleared her throat awkwardly. She had said that without even thinking about it and felt embarrassed, perhaps she should slow down on the wine.
The Garlean raised the bow towards the strings, and he slowly started playing a somber melody. His fingers moved with such precision on the strings it enchanted Saphyra while she was listening to him playing. He seemed as if he was in another place while he was playing, it was very intimate to watch him while he was next to her. Once she snapped out of her staring, she realized she recognized the melody. She had played it a few times with Artoirel after Haurchefant had died.
Her fingers moved to the keys of the piano and once she felt it was the appropriate moment to start playing, she started accompanying him. In this piece the piano was more a support for the cello, and she was fine with that, she wanted him to have a proper warm up and not take away from his playing just yet as she felt like her playing might not be that good tonight due to the wine.
As the song came to an end, they looked at each other. His face was unreadable to her, so she was unsure if she did well or not. “You recognized the piece?” He asked her with a slightly surprised tone in his voice.
“I did. I have played it a few times when I lived in Ishgard after someone I was close to died. I hope I played the accompaniment well enough; it has been some time since I practiced it.”
“It was well enough for a warmup, pay it no mind. If playing this piece troubles you I will let you take the lead. It is never easy to lose the ones we love.” His gaze was surprisingly soft as he said this. Saphyra felt like he genuinely meant what he said, and she pondered for a moment which piece would be nice to perform together. She remembered playing a cello sonata with Artoirel where both the piano and the cello had an equal role instead of the piano playing an accompanying role.
“I am not sure if you know this but…” She started as her fingers started moving over the keys. The start of the sonata was piano only so she hoped that would give him time to recognize the piece. Right when the cello was supposed to start, she heard the first notes coming from his cello. She was relieved he knew the piece; it was one of her favorites to play and it did not feel the same without a cello. Practicing it on her own felt hollow and incomplete, but she still did it whenever she found the time and a place where they had a piano.
The Garlean must be some sort of professional musician she thought, his playing was something she had not experienced before. Not that she had the time to attend any performances of professionals before, but she had never felt like this before when playing music. His playing was much better than hers, but despite that, it did not make her feel inadequate, if anything it elevated her own performance. She could not help but smile.
As the song came to a slow end, she felt content, the smile still on her face. Around them the remaining patrons in the bar applauded their performance. Saphyra blushed, not being used to attention, but she completely forgot they were in public. “You look like you quite enjoyed yourself,” he remarked as he removed his bow from the cello.
“I did, it is one of my favorite pieces but finding a cello player while always travelling is rather difficult. Therefore, despite your dubious origins I could not pass up the chance to play it as it is supposed to be played. Thank you for indulging me,” she smiled at him.
“And here I was hoping my heartfelt performance would have made me less likely to be subjected to your stinging remarks,” he retorted playfully.
“Would a shared bottle of wine be an acceptable apology? I think I have pushed my hands to their limits for tonight and if I do wish to maim another man with my fists, I better not get a lingering injury. However, I would very much like to play together again some time.”
“That sounds very agreeable.”
Chapter 3: Appetizer
Notes:
Alright so I felt like I had to update the rating due to this chapter and my plans for the future. It's my first time writing this kind of stuff, I hope I did alright as I'm really nervous uploading it. Saphyra is a mess and doesn't really care about anything she does at the moment. Sowing is fun but reaping will maybe not be fun haha. Enjoy!
Chapter Text
“No, I insist Saphyra, your playing tonight here has been more than sufficient to cover anything you could order from me!” Glynard grinned at her. “I haven’t had this much patronage in a long time, I will let the Exarch know you’re settling in well. Please take one of my finest reds as your payment for you and your companion.” Glynard offered her a slightly dusty bottle of red wine which he uncorked for her and gave her two clean glasses.
She turned around to search for the Garlean man and saw that he had finished packing up his cello. She beckoned him to come over to the bar and showed him the bottle of wine and filled wine glasses triumphantly with a smile on her face. He sauntered over to the bar, and she noticed his poor posture which she could not see before as she was sitting. He was slouching, she had never seen a Garlean slouch before, it was a strange sight. As he came to stand next to her it was very clear to her, even with his terrible posture, that he was just over a fulm taller than her.
“We were offered Glynard’s finest red in exchange for our services, despite me offering to pay several times,” she said while smiling at Glynard again. “’Tis really no trouble as I said, Saphyra. Please use the piano whenever you like.”
Saphyra offered the Garlean the other glass of wine and raised hers to meet his. “Cheers!” Saphyra said and he just looked at her with an amused face. The glasses clinked and they both took a sip. The wine was indeed very nice, much better than what she had drank earlier tonight. The wine was surprisingly smooth, with notes of plum, vanilla, some spices and she even thought she could taste a bit of chocolate.
“Oh… this wine is quite good… Glynard, could I trouble you for another bottle to keep in my lodgings for later? Who knows when I will be back. I will pay you of course.” She started fishing out gil from her pockets and exchanged a decent sum with the barkeep for another bottle. “If it is not too much trouble, I would like to bring that one to my room right now, you can accompany me if you want to.” She looked at the Garlean man, waiting for him to answer her.
He bent over and whispered in her ear: “If you wanted me in your room, you could’ve just asked.” Saphyra’s face immediately flushed, and her cheeks became warm. “T-that is not what I am implying, I just have not seen my living quarters yet and it felt rude to just leave you here by yourself.” He smirked.
“Well let us be off then.”
She grabbed the corked wine bottle off the bar and with the other glass in her hand she started walking towards the Pendants, where her living quarters were supposed to be. When she looked whether the Garlean man was following her, she noticed he had brought the other bottle of wine as well. So he was being serious about continuing their evening in her room after all.
She met with the Manager of Suites, a tall black haired and sharply dressed Elezen man, or rather Elf here in the First, who greeted her politely. “Ah, Mistress Netherlight, are you retiring for the night? Your living quarters are ready for you.” He handed her a key as she set her now empty wine glass on his desk. She thanked him as he gave her instructions on how to reach her room and with the Garlean in tow they found it easily enough.
Saphyra understood now why they were referred to as living quarters, the room was way nicer than she had anticipated. As the Garlean closed the double doors behind her, she put the wine down on the table, dumped her travel bag and staff in a corner, and started walking around. She saw not only a full-fledged dining table that could seat four people with fruits on top of it, a fully stocked pantry, a stove, a large window that faced the door directly, steps to a wardrobe and bed and desk, but even a powder table. The Exarch really made sure she had everything at her disposal here, huh. When she finished checking out the room, she put the key in the lock on the inside and locked the door.
“Trying to keep me here already?” The Garlean asked her with a raised brow. He had made himself comfortable on one of the chairs closest to the window at the dining table and had refilled their wine glasses.
“More like keeping unwanted guests out. Force of habit really, but it has also been surprisingly hard to be alone today,” she grimaced as she took a seat and accepted the glass he offered her. “Not to discount your company of course.”
Now that she sat down again, she could feel that the alcohol had hit her harder than she had anticipated. She usually drank ale as wine was not always available and she underestimated how it would affect her. Saphyra looked at the Garlean and his damnable beautiful eyes. “Something on my face, Mistress Netherlight?” He said slightly mockingly. “You’ve been staring at my face for a while now.”
“Oh no, no sorry. I am just looking at your eyes. I think the wine is getting to my head a little bit, but they are beautiful. I have never seen such golden eyes before, it is almost as if they are glowing, it is enchanting.”
“You have quite the odd colored eyes yourself, deep red isn’t exactly common amongst your kind, is it?” he inquired, putting his hand to his chin as if he was trying to recall anyone else he had met with the same eyes.
Saphyra frowned immediately, but nodded as she finished her glass of wine and poured a new one; her eyes were always kind of a touchy subject for her. “Something amiss?” “My eyes were originally sapphire green, but I do not really want to bring the mood down with the story on how that changed. Let us just say that looking in the mirror every day is not a really pleasant reminder of what I sacrificed for the world sometimes, even if it was a worthy cause.”
The man across her moved his hand towards her face, his thumb lightly grazing the scar on her cheek, and she could feel the softness of the gloves he was wearing. It gave her goosebumps. He reached for the side braid that laid on her shoulder and inspected it at first before he started absentmindedly playing with it. “Then why wear such a complicated hairstyle? This must take quite some time to adjust after combat or when you wake up in the morning.”
“My friend taught me how to braid it this way,” she said with a wistful smile on her lips. “It was a parting gift to remember her by as it is a local hairstyle, and we did not know when we would see each other again.”
“Just a friend? The way you look when you speak of her implies something else.” He chuckles.
Saphyra laughs heartily. “Yes, just a friend. Any reciprocal feelings she once may have harbored for the little crush I had probably dissipated when she found me kissing the crown prince of Garlemald.”
Her hands flew to her face covering it immediately, trying to hide the embarrassment of what she just said. She accidentally hit the hand of the Garlean who was still playing with her hair, but she noticed he had stopped when she said that just now. Her face was hot and red from shame, why the hell did she say that to a stranger and a Garlean at that. Gods this was such a bad idea to begin with, he probably not only knew who she was, due to her name being mentioned before by Glynard and the Manager of Suites, but this was just humiliating.
She peeked through her fingers to gauge his reaction. He was sitting with his arms crossed and a look of mild disgust on his face. “Gods this is embarrassing, you already know who I am do you not?” She managed to say in a muffled voice while still hiding her face.
“Yes, I figured that out a while ago, esteemed hero of the Source,” he responded mockingly. “Your private affairs are none of my business, but the Warrior of Light being entangled with that maniac is a surprise. No wonder you were quite forthcoming with me.”
Saphyra removed her hands from her face and sighed. She picked up her glass of wine again and took a sip, taking the stinging words in as she had no defense at all. It had been stupid to begin with, she should have been more cautious, but here she was with an unknown Garlean man whom she knew nothing about, and she did not care at all.
“Well, you were not exactly forthcoming regarding your identity. I already know there are no Garleans on the First and at the first sign of me questioning you, you were insistent on leaving. I preferred having a good time over petty squabbles, indeed,” she retorted after deliberating.
“Do you like playing with your life, hero?” He asked as he reached out to her chin with his hand, softly touching it underneath, making her look him in the eyes. “It’s unwise to make assumptions when you know nothing about me.”
His face was so close to her now and his eyes were so distracting. “I think I will take my chances. Everyone who has tried to kill me so far failed, mortal or immortal.”
She did not know if it was the alcohol or just the overall teasing, but she could not take it anymore. His lips were so close to hers and she could not resist the urge and she pressed her lips against his. He froze for a moment but then reciprocated her kiss fervently. His hand moved from her chin to cup her face and she put her wine glass on the table without looking at it. The Garleans lips were incredibly soft, and he opened his mouth to press his tongue against her lips to gain access to her mouth. She opened her mouth a little to let him in and their tongues danced while their kiss intensified.
Saphyra grabbed the fur of his coat to get closer to him and he moved his hand of her face to lift her on his lap. She straddled him as they kissed, and she moved her hands over his chest and felt his lean body hidden underneath the layers of clearly well-tailored clothing. He removed his lips from hers and she let out a disappointed sigh immediately, to which he laughed in response. The Garlean continued leaving kisses in a trail from her cheek to her neck, which was a vulnerable spot for her.
She let out a moan and put her arms around his neck. He grabbed her lower back and pressed her against his body as he reclaimed her mouth. She started undulating her hips against his and he groaned. He felt so good against her body, she just ignored that this was probably very stupid and dangerous as she had no idea who he was despite being the most suspicious man around.
Saphyra was feeling like wax in his arms, warm, comfortable and at ease. She wanted to see more of him and removed her arms from his neck and tried to unbutton his shirt. He grabbed both her wrists firmly with his right hand and stopped her. “Not tonight,” he said in between kisses. “While I’m enjoying myself very much, I won’t take advantage of you like that in this state.”
“Tomorrow?” She moaned in his ear. “Are you that desperate, hero?” He said mockingly as he moved his hand from her wrists and grabbed her hips, pressing her down harder on his crotch and elicited another moan from her. She could feel his hardened member even through his layers of clothing. “Gods you are horrible,” was all Saphyra managed to say.
The Garlean assaulted her neck with more kisses again and nipped at the skin. Suddenly he lifted her up from the chair and stood up without interrupting his kisses, while slowly returning to her lips. With one last long kiss he withdrew. “That should guarantee a pleasant sleep, good night, hero.” He smirked at her and turned around on his heel and started walking towards the door.
“Wait!” Saphyra yelled after him, but she was not stable on her feet due to the all the alcohol she had imbibed, and she had to grab the table to keep standing. The Garlean unlocked the door and did a strange wave in the air with his right hand, she had never seen such a funny wave before, it nearly made her laugh if she was not so flabbergasted by his sudden departure. He closed the door without even looking back at her.
Chapter 4: Hangover
Notes:
A short chapter as I had to split up my chapters for being way too long otherwise oops. Saphyra will be nicer to the Exarch at some point maybe, sorry!! ;-;
The dress I chose for her is the type 51 caster dress from the Nier raids which I will not make canon in this universe :) I recently finally obtained it as my black mage glam!
Art can be found at the end of the chapter and is by yit_yulia on Twitter/yitjulia on Bluesky.
Chapter Text
Saphyra woke up with a pounding headache and when she stretched out on her bed, she realized she had not even properly undressed herself last night. She still had her pants and one boot on, but her top was lying somewhere on the floor. As she sat up and sighed, a bout of nausea hit her. Great, a hangover to start the day is really the way to go. She rubbed her eyes and started undressing further stripping the last layers of clothing from her body.
She had noticed a door to a connecting room last night that she had not checked out and was hoping there would be a private bathroom here. The Exarch had not failed in providing her with decent lodging so this surely would not have been too much to ask, right? She opened the door close to the bed and surely, she found a bathroom with a spacious bathtub, sink and toilet.
Saphyra walked to the tub and turned on the faucet to fill it with water. Maybe a bath would make her feel a bit better. She probably could not stomach food yet, but some water would help. She moved over to the sink and drank some water from the tap. As she looked up, she saw herself in the mirror, blood red eyes staring back, and her braids half undone and hair completely disheveled.
When she untangled her braids and hair it fell in long strands on her back and as soon as she swept it aside to make sure the knots were all out of her hair, she noticed something. She moved closer to the mirror to see it better and she saw a few bruises in her neck. Gods, had they been that rough last night? Her cheeks flushed as she thought again of being in the arms of the Garlean man as he caressed her neck with his lips.
She would have to figure out a way to cover this up, her current gear did not cover her neck at all, and she preferred to wear her hair up in the new hairstyle Lyse taught her. “Terribly inconvenient,” she muttered to herself. She would have to go out and buy something else before meeting the Exarch to find out where her friends were after nursing her hangover.
Saphyra turned around and saw the bath was at least halfway filled, so it was worth trying the water. She tested the temperature of the water with her hands, and it was pleasant enough to get in. Before stepping in, she put a lot of lavender scented soap in the tub, hoping that it would at least make her smell not like a walking bar. As she soaked in the water, she could feel her fatigue wash off her and she closed her eyes, sighing in relaxation.
A couple of hours later she greeted the guard at the entrance of the Crystal Tower. She was donned out in a new outfit that had cost her a pretty penny, but she quite liked it. The Crystarium’s weavers had plenty of options and were very skilled with making quick alterations for her. Tataru’s gift had been very kind, but it was rather dark for her taste and slightly bulky for her style of combat, she preferred lightweight dresses that allowed free movement. She would keep it as a backup, of course.
Her current outfit was a long elegant dark red corseted dress, with a cutout on both her back and chest, but it covered her neck nearly up to her chin. The lacework was intricate from her neck down and she appreciated its details. The slit on the right side of the dress also allowed for free movement in combat. She had paired it with matching black gloves, tights and boots for contrast. The Garlean had inspired her to buy gloves, she had been developing callouses on her hands due to the friction of her staff and she did not really like that.
With her hair neatly braided and her bruises nicely covered she entered the Ocular and greeted the Exarch. “Hello G’raha, I figured it was finally a good time to go seek out some of my friends,” she started nonchalantly.
The Exarch looked her up and down, but his face was obscured as he had started to do again to preserve his identity, so she could not tell what he was thinking. “I would’ve thought you would come earlier today but I see you’ve been busy,” he said curtly.
“Well, the outfit Tataru provided was not really suitable for my regular combat style nor taste and I figured this would help me support both the weavers of the Crystarium and blend in better with the locals,” Saphyra shrugged.
“If you wish to flaunt your wealth perhaps, the average person here cannot afford such attire. However, I do appreciate your support of the weavers they are very skilled individuals worthy of patronage. It does suit you, so do not take it to heart. I’m sure no one will question a well-dressed pianist enjoying expensive wine.”
“Are you keeping tabs on me, G’raha?” Saphyra gritted her teeth.
“I am merely concerned for your wellbeing,” he retorted. “It is in my best interest to keep you healthy and safe after all.”
“How about you mind your business and give me some privacy. What is wrong with you? I am perfectly capable of taking care of myself, thank you very much.”
The Exarch sighed. “Very well, pray accept my apologies. I hope your quarters were at least to your liking, I ensured they were sufficiently spacious to make you feel at home.”
“Yes, they were comfortable. I did not mean to insult your hospitality, but considering the circumstances our relationship has been rather strained. I do appreciate your efforts, I found them quite to my liking. Now please, can we get to the point where you tell me where my friends are so I can seek them out?” Saphyra asked impatiently, tapping her foot in mild frustration.
“I see you will not be easily distracted,” The Exarch said as he showed her a large roll of paper and unfolded it for her. “This map shows the lands of Norvrandt, the only area to be spared by the Flood of Light. The Crystarium is here, in the region known as Lakeland. To the north is the faerie kingdom of Il Mheg, where you will find Urianger. To the east lies the once-prosperous civilization of Rak’tika. Y’sthola is stationed there, in the heard of the forest. Alas, neither location can be reached without considerable difficulty.”
“How incredibly in character for the both of them,” Saphyra smiled. “I would expect nothing less. How about the twins?”
“Alphinaud is on Kholusia, an island off the western shore. It is home to a city called Eulmore, where the rich and privileged while away their days in idleness. For his part in furthering our cause, Alphinaud journeyed there to meet with the citizenry and forge alliances. From what I hear, he has since kept himself busy gathering information around the main settlement.”
“I suppose his lordling air would aid him in mingling with those folks,” she chuckled. “Forging alliances is his forte however, it suits him well. What about Alisaie, I assume she is not with him? Endeavors like this tend not to be something that interest her.”
“She traveled to the south to the arid wastes of Amh Araeng,” The Exarch revealed. “They lie upon the very edge of the inhabitable world, where the Flood of Light was halted. Those who dwell there live in constant fear of attack by the sin eaters. In contrast to her brother, Alisaie felt that her energies would better be spent learning about the enemy. And thus, she sells her services as a guard, both to hone her skills and gather information on our foe.”
“That sounds exactly like the Alisaie I know,” Saphyra said. “She does not like being idle. However, I noticed you have not mentioned anything about Thancred. Are his whereabouts unknown?”
“He has taken up with a new companion… and is presently engaged as a wandering hunter of sin eaters. Being ever on the move, his whereabouts are often difficult to ascertain, but I am certain your paths will cross ere long. Now, I think it would be the easiest to seek out either of the twins first and I would provide a suitable mount. So, will it be Kholusia or Amh Araeng?” The Exarch asked.
Saphyra took a moment to take the information in. A new companion, who could that be? Thancred usually worked alone on his stealth missions and the only other person he really got along well with was Minfilia and later she noticed him and Urianger getting rather close. Curious.
“Amh Araeng. I had a promise broken by your meddling, so it is time to set it right. I will leave as soon as possible. I already have a travel bag packed,” Saphyra said with a determined tone. Her hangover was nearly gone and if she took it easy, she would probably be fine, she thought.
“Please give this letter to a man named Cassard, the master of a merchant caravan. Find him at the Amaro Launch. Few know the ways of the desert as well as he does. He will see that you reach your destination,” The Exarch said as he handed her a sealed letter. “I’m sure that Alisaie will be overjoyed to see you safe, she impressed upon me how regrettable the timing of her summoning was, and I hope my part in sending you to her will garner me some measure of forgiveness.”
“I would not count on it, but her heart has always been very kind. We might find ourselves surprised. Thank you for your assistance, I will take my leave. You’ll see me again when I have finished my business in the desert, I guess,” she said as she walked out and gave a halfhearted wave.
“Safe travels, my friend.”
Saphyra by Yit Julia
Chapter 5: An Overdue Reunion
Notes:
Another chapter on the same day? Yeah! I was writing this already and it got too long so I split it up :) I hope I did Alisaie justice, I'm very fond of her as you will probably be able to tell. I hope she won't be too mad at Saphyra later. You've probably noticed my writing quirk for how I write Saphyra's dialogue, that's on purpose, she's always a bit formal in her speech, as she has learned that speaking formally earned her the most coin back in the day. It has become a hard habit to break for her but you might eventually see it :)
Chapter Text
Saphyra had nearly thrown up from Rhon Ron’s wares when she was cracking her coinpurse per Mord customs. Luckily no other test of her constitution awaited her later and after doing some small chores for Cassard she met with an acquaintance of Alisaie named Tesleen, who was happy to take her to her. Apparently Alisaie had been talking about her quite a lot during her stay at this place called the Inn at Journey’s Head, which was very endearing to Saphyra. She might only tease her a little about it, she smiled to herself.
During their short trip through the desert, they only encountered coyotes, which she made quick work of, so they safely arrived at their destination. The scorching heat was even more intimidating due to the never-ending light, it was hard to tell the time, but she assumed it should have been nearly evening now. “Welcome to the Inn at Journey’s Head,” Tesleen introduced the giant stone structure in front of them. It seemed like they had taken refuge in some kind of mountain in the middle of the desert. “You might be our first visitor from the Crystarium since Alisaie arrived. It’s not much, but it’s home for the afflicted and a handful of carers.”
“The afflicted? How do you manage out here in the desert? That must be quite difficult,” Saphyra inquired. They walked through the large opening in the stone, and she saw a basic camp set up. There were simplistic beds, some tables and chairs, crates which she assumed with filled with supplies, a firepit and several people here.
“You… don’t know? I don’t think I’ve met anyone besides Alisaie who was so unfamiliar with our situation here. Most folk have grown up knowing someone who knew someone,” Tesleen looked at her with confusion in her eyes but quickly recovered and put a smile on her face. “Hm. I might leave out something obvious, so it may be best to have Alisaie give you the full explanation.”
“That is quite alright, do not worry about it. Do you know where she is? I think she is not here now,” Saphyra said as he looked around the Inn.
“…Hm. I think she might be out on patrol. You could wait, I suppose – but why not go out and surprise her!? She usually takes a look at things from the watchtower first so you might be able to catch her there. It's not far ─ head out the south side and you'll soon see it. I'll stay behind, in case she comes back while you're gone.” Tesleen suggested.
“Sounds like a plan!” Saphyra smiled at Tesleen and turned around to leave. Alisaie was nowhere to be seen, but she found footprints in the sand and followed the trail. Soon enough she heard a familiar voice calling out to a stray sin eater, which was swiftly slain by none other than Alisaie.
“You almost lost that one!” Saphyra teased her.
“I had it under control! …Right up until the moment I didn’t. I’ll do better next time.” Alisaie pouted. “I knew you’d turn up sooner or later, but I had been hoping for sooner. How are you?”
Saphyra pulled Alisaie into a tight hug. “Happy to see you safe, mostly. We made a promise, remember? Things on the Source are settled, the conflict with the Empire is currently at a standstill so there is no need for me to be there now,” she said as she let Alisaie go and looked at her. “I am sorry for being so late, I had no idea that so much time had passed for everyone. I made sure to give the Exarch a piece of my mind when I arrived.”
“Ha, I’m sure he was very happy with that. I did the same as you when I arrived here. The Exarch did say that the Empire seemed to have drawn back when he last looked in on the Source. But without knowing for sure how fast time was passing there, I couldn't help worrying that a lot might have happened since then. I'm heartily relieved to hear that it hasn't ─ just as Alphinaud must have been. As you can imagine, both he and Urianger were desperate to hear the news from home when I arrived.”
“I sure hope you did not employ the same methods as I did but I would pay gil to see it if you did. I made sure to inform Tataru of my safe arrival at least, so if that is something you worry about, please rest easier knowing that I have communicated with her,” Saphyra said, noticing that Alisaie seemed a still a bit anxious.
“What did you do?” Alisaie looked a bit shocked after her confession, but relieved at the reassurance from her that at least Tataru knows that she is safe. “I’m relieved to hear that it hasn’t progressed… As you can imagine, both Alphinaud and Urianger were desperate to hear the news from home when I arrived. I haven’t actually seen Thancred and Y’shtola yet, but they will have heard all the latest developments from the Exarch by now - or should have, at least. But we still haven’t found a way to reverse the summoning. And even if we had, we couldn’t just ignore Urianger’s vision…” She trailed off.
“Let us say my fist has seen better days after it met his face,” Saphyra laughed but then started to speak in a serious tone. “Do not worry about it, this is something between me and the Exarch. I was merely worried for all of you. So, you truly believe Urianger has seen this vision then?”
“I’ll just let that comment slide then, your business is your business after all,” Alisaie shrugged. “Urianger may use ten words where one would suffice – and they may often obscure as much as they reveal… but on this matter he was as clear as day. I do not doubt for one moment that he saw what he claims. Nor how difficult it must have been to speak about them. The Eighth Umbral Calamity and your death aren't exactly topics for idle conversation.”
“I see. I know I have been difficult in the past…” She murmured. “I will look ungrateful now if I say I am not asking to be saved, but I know I cannot change your mind. You have already put in a lot of work here to try to save this world, carrying the burden alone. I am here now, so share it with me, will you? To make up for lost time.”
For a moment they just looked at each other in understanding. Alisaie had tried to drag her out of her bed during the early days after they liberated Ala Mhigo when Saphyra did not want to leave at all. She had locked herself in her room back in a small house she had acquired in the housing district of Limsa Lominsa. She would not be deterred however and kept visiting every day, if only to leave food by her front door and eventually, Saphyra relented and let her in. They did not speak, but she allowed her to just be by her side. She was unwashed, dirty and bloodstained for weeks on end. Eventually, Alisaie managed to convince her to wash herself and take a step outside and meet with others, slowly pulling her together, piece by piece.
“You see that great wall of white back there?” Alisaie gestured behind Saphyra. “That is a remnant of the Flood. A hundred years ago, the balance in the First tipped decisively in favor of Light. From that moment, it rose and swelled with each passing day ─ and then, without warning, it burst forth like water from a broken dam. ...A colossal wave of pure Light, drowning everything in its wake. Only Norvrandt was spared. For the most part, living things are composed of aether of various different aspects. But when exposed to such a flood, their aetheric harmony is shattered, and their natural form breaks down. Then they either perish...or are warped into mindless abominations.”
Saphyra nods in understanding. “So, this is how sin eaters came to be then?” She asked.
“Yes,” Alisaie confirmed. “They were once living creatures ─or people ─ that were caught in the path of the Flood. Once the change is wrought, there is no going back. In that instant, they are gripped by an insatiable appetite for aether, and will happily gorge themselves on any living thing within reach.”
“But even that is not the worst of it,” Alisaie continued. “The stronger sin eaters can plant Light in us like seeds in soil, corrupting our aether, and triggering the birth of new monstrosities. They are creatures of base instinct that exist only to feed and to multiply. They feel no pity, know no remorse, and are utterly deaf to reason. Which is why they must be destroyed. Every last one of them. The infirmary is full of the sin eaters' victims, left here to spend their final hours waiting for the change to overtake them...”
Saphyra noticed how much this affected Alisaie, she clearly cared for the patients. “I see now why Tesleen was so confused by my ignorance of their situation. It is good to see that there are some compassionate people out here caring for them, despite it their condition being incurable…”
“It's just a matter of time ─ more for some, less for others. Those patients will all become monsters in the end.” Alisaie said with a sad tone in her voice.
“That does not make it a job less worthy of doing. A merciful death is something not granted to everyone, we can both attest to that.”
Alisaie nodded solemnly. “To add insult to injury, the afflicted are feared. Shunned. Cast out of society, and exiled here to the edge of the world... The only good thing I have to say about this hellish place is that it has served me well as a training ground. Tesleen and the others have also been kind enough to share their knowledge of the sin eaters. Which is knowledge I can now share with you...while you help me finish my patrol, of course.”
“I would not have it any other way!” Saphyra smiled at her.
When they finished their patrol, which was relatively uneventful except for a few stray sin eaters that were easily slain, they returned to the Inn at Journey’s Head for a hearty meal. While waiting for it to finish cooking Saphyra tended to a few patients that ranged from being barely able to speak to completely unresponsive. Most notably was a young child named Halric, whose skin had hardened into something akin to plaster. She felt nothing but sorrow as she wiped the sand off his face, his time was probably near.
When they ate dinner Tesleen asked if they could pick up a nectarine the next morning at the market in Mord Souq. They agreed to this and listened to Tesleen share the story about how she came to the Inn with her mother, it touched Saphyra how selfless she had been to stay afterwards. To care for someone so much and give them a merciful death and then offering others the same, that is a worthy pursuit in a barren world like this. She also shared a tale of the Warrior of Darkness, which was apparently a common tale in Norvrandt. Funny, she had heard that title before… a long time ago.
As everyone went to sleep Saphyra was not tired yet as she was not used to sleeping with the never-ending light outside. She decided to grab some water and venture outside for a moment where she sat down a few malms away from the entrance to look at the wall of Light. Suddenly she heard a voice beside her.
“…You…? I know you… You’re the Warrior of Light from the Source!” The male voice beside her said. When she looked up, she saw a Hyur male with dark brown hair, a little beard and stubble, and blue eyes that she recognized immediately. He wore the same armor as back then and he carried that large axe which was bloodied.
“The Warrior of Darkness…? What a coincidence, Tesleen just shared a story about the Warrior of Darkness during dinner and here you are.”
“What? Did you just… You can hear me!?” He nearly cried out in relief. “Oh gods, how long has it been…? …Aye…aye, that was what I called myself in your world… The “Warrior of Darkness.” My real name is Ardbert. I used an alias in the Source. A daft one looking back.”
“It is fine, Ardbert,” Saphyra reassured him. “Others cannot see you then, hm? Tell me your tale if you want, I have time.”
“If you recall, it was my comrades and I who caused the Flood. We thought our home doomed. And so we listened to the Ascians ─ let them guide us to the Source, and tried to hasten their godsdamned Ardor. I remember when we fell, defeated by you and yours. I remember our audience with Minfilia ─ how she listened to our pleas, and returned our souls to the First. The Flood was poised to swallow Norvrandt...” He struggled to continue for a moment, clenching his fist.
“Minfilia and my friends, they...” He continued. “They surrendered what little they had left to hold it back. Just faded away...leaving me to bear witness. Tell me, do you know the year? How much time has passed since we caused the Flood?”
“People here have told me it has been around a hundred years since the Flood.” Saphyra answered hesitantly. She could only imagine what effect this would have on him.
“A hundred years… A hundred long years…” He lamented. “My hands find no purchase.” He showed Saphyra his limitations by trying to grab her cup of water and his hand just went through. “My gestures catch no eye. And my pleas, be they whispered or screamed, reach not a single ear... I am a shade, cursed to do naught but drift. I feel as if I've been walking forever... I hardly noticed when my mind and body began to fray at the edges. Then “bang,” my senses were sharp again. I felt like a fish being reeled in, and before I knew it, I found myself here in this desert. Why is it that you can see me? What are you even doing here, come to that?”
“I was summoned here to save the First. Not by choice mind you, and my friends have also gotten involuntarily summoned by mistake.” Saphyra offered as an explanation, hopefully sufficient for him. She could not imagine anything she could say would even be any consolation now.
“You were summoned to save the First?” He almost started laughing at that notion. “A waste of time. This world is beyond saving ─ like those who try to save it. Muddled as my mind may be, I've not forgotten that. But if fate has brought me to you ─ the one person in this godsforsaken world who can see and hear me ─ then perhaps there is a reason I endured. If I can find out why I was left behind, then maybe...maybe I can bring this journey of mine to an end... Well. I'll be watching, Warrior of Light. But do me a favor. Be careful out there. This world has had its fill of heroes.”
“I will keep that in mind, Ardbert. Thank you for your counsel.” She offered as words of goodbye while he disappeared right after she said that.
Saphyra woke up a bit groggy after a bad night of sleep, the never-ending light had been keeping her up and the ability to sleep in a room where she could just shut it out had been a luxury she did not appreciate to its fullest before. Alisaie and her set out for Mord Souq after a breakfast of leftover stew from the night before. They acquired a nectarine and a jar of honeyed worms from Rhon Ron, which he generously offered them free of charge as she had cracked her coinpurse with him and he felt like he still owed her food. Saphyra did not understand what they needed the worms for, but Alisaie quickly revealed it would buy them a trip to the top of the tower in Mord Souq.
They had a good view of the wall of Light from here and Alisaie pointed at a large gap in it. “Look over there – where the wall is broken. Do you see what lies beyond? That’s what the land became after the Light flooded in. An empty white nothingness. Life cannot exist in such conditions. The primordial Light would wreak havoc on the body's aetheric balance.”
There really was nothing beyond the crystalized wall of Light, just an endless wasteland of white sand as far as the eye could see. “I see why everyone considers the world mostly lost… the loss is felt most keenly here in the desert where it stares you in the face.” Saphyra mused.
“That nectarine you bought… it’s Halric’s favorite fruit. Most of the patients, Halric included, survived the attacks of powerful eaters. But their fate was sealed all the same. The monsters' corruption has entered their bodies, and their very essence is being subsumed by Light. The twisted state of the world itself just makes matters worse. Under normal circumstances, a person's aether naturally tends to equilibrium, but for these poor souls, the opposite is true. Sooner or later, every single one of them will turn.” Alisaie explained.
“I see… that is why we had to go out here and purchase a nectarine then. I touched his skin last night when cleaning the sand of his face… he seemed close to turning, I think. He did not even blink and it felt hard, like plaster.”
“Tesleen and the patients, they all know this. They know what has to be done before the change goes too far ─ before the eater within takes over. The preferred method is mixing poison into their favorite food. In my time here, I've borne witness to a lot of last meals. I feel just as helpless as before. No matter how hard I fight, it's never enough.” Alisaie clenched her fist as she said this, trying to keep her emotions in check.
Saphyra put her hand on Alisaie’s shoulder. “It is important what you do here, do not discount your efforts.”
“I just could not shake the feeling that I abandoned you on the battlefield. So, I swore that I’d make up for my absence there by making a difference here. And that's what keeps me moving forward...even when things seem hopeless.”
“I am proud of you; you know that right? Not everything is resolved on a battlefield, sometimes extending kindness is the most heroic action of all. I cannot imagine a kinder fate for these people here, despite the awful circumstances, they are treated with care and dignity until their last moment.” Saphyra said softly. “If I were to suffer such a fate, I could only ask for the same.”
“Thank you… but please don’t be reckless, we are here to prevent your death not to enable it!” Alisaie elbowed her not really knowing how to respond to Saphyra’s unexpected praise. “We should head back. The longer we keep Tesleen waiting, the harder this will be for her…”
When they were back on the ground level of Mord Souq again Alisaie looked relieved. “I’m glad I was able to show you that. When it comes to understanding the catastrophe which befell the First, one glimpse of the Empty wasteland beyond the wall is worth more than an hour of Urianger’s lecturing. And I needed you to know beyond a doubt that Tesleen has no other choice. The nectarine will be a kindness. It isn't just the threat posed to others... When a person becomes an eater, the pain appears to be excruciating. The carers are truly fond of their wards and would spare them that suffering. It is their way of fighting back against a fate worse than death.”
They returned to the Inn at Journey’s Head and traveled mostly in silence, knowing that which was to come would not be very pleasant. Saphyra could not really find the words to do their usually playful banter and Alisaie seemed on edge. Tesleen welcomed them back with a smile and was thankful for their help. She noticed by Saphyra’s expression that Alisaie had explained what the nectarine was for but told her that it was perhaps not his time yet and that they would hold on to the fruit until they were absolutely certain that it was necessary.
Tesleen invited them to sit down for lunch and rest from their journey. One of the afflicted patients suddenly ominously muttered: “They’re coming…” This creeped Saphyra out, what did he mean by this? Just as she wanted to ask if others had heard this as well, one of the other caregivers, Cassana, ran over to Tesleen. “Tesleen! Have you seen Halric!? I swear I only took my eyes off him for a moment…” Cassana said frantically.
“Saphyra, Alisaie – we have to go look for Halric! I don't know what's gotten into him, but if he's wandering out there alone... It’s dangerous out there, he’s just a child.” Tesleen said, clearly worried.
“We’ll assign search areas and split up. Any idea where he might be headed?” Alisaie immediately offered.
“No, he's never done anything like this before. But it can't be a coincidence that the other patients are suddenly so agitated. They can sense something... In any case, let's keep the search close to the Inn. Halric isn't very sure on his feet, so he won't have gone far. I'll search the east side! Please, Halric... Please be all right...!” Tesleen said nervously as she departed for her search.
Alisaie turned to Saphyra and suggested she searched south of the Inn while Alisaie would take the north and west side. She did not have any luck finding him but did encounter a few sin eaters which she quickly slayed. She met up with Alisaie and they both concluded that he was not in their search perimeters. Suddenly they saw a large sin eater with a big shield and a sword.
“Did you see the size of that thing? It must be one of the nasty ones. Wherever it’s going it can only mean trouble. After it!” Alisaie shouted.
They ran after it and had some trouble keeping up with its speed as it had wings. Eventually they managed to catch up to it. “There it is!” Alisaie proclaimed. Simultaneously they spotted a familiar figure in the sand… it was Halric.
“Is that – Oh… no no! Halric!” Alisaie cried out as they ran towards Halric when the sin eater raised its sword to attack him.
Tesleen had caught up with them from the other side and ran towards Halric and cut off one of the wings of the sin eater with her sword.
“We have to run!” Tesleen shouted at him, but he just stared at her, unmoving.
“Tesleen, no!” Alisaie shouted at her, as the blade of the sin eater pierced her chest from behind. She dropped her sword, and she choked up blood immediately, while her chest was filled with light.
“We all deserve happiness… wherever we can find it…” Tesleen managed to say. She moved her hands to Halric’s face as she cupped it with both, like a mother reaching out to her child. “The time left to you… is precious… No one should die… in pain… Mother… Mother, I…”
The sin eater retracted its sword and blood splatters came out of the chest wound, however the blinding light in her chest remained. Tesleen fell to her knees in agony and started screaming in pain. The light now spread to her mouth and eyes, and she fell over to her hands and knees, throwing up bile of light. All while Halric just stood there, watching emotionless. Saphyra noticed that Alisaie wanted to move towards Tesleen, but she held her in a firm embrace, this was a nightmare and there was nothing they could do to stop it.
Suddenly Tesleen sat up and she opened her mouth wide, her eyes were completely unrecognizable as they were cast over entirely blue. She was leaking a waxlike substance all over her skin. Alisaie covered half her eyes to shield her from the horror before her. Her limbs started to twitch and deform in the most unnatural ways as if she was being stretched out, all while screaming in pain. Her hands and feet became claws and from her back sprouted wings and she even grew a tail. Worst of all, her eyes became hollow and black, as if they had been clawed out, but underneath it looked like as if there were remnants of tears in the color of ash.
When her transformation was complete, there was deafening silence. The large sin eater flew off as if nothing had transpired and Alisaie pulled herself free from Saphyra’s tight grip and tried to run towards Tesleen. “Oh no, no… No, no, no, no!” She cried out.
Tesleen, now sin eater, turned to Alisaie. “Forgive me… Alisaie…” It said, before flying off as well. Alisaie fell to her knees in tears crying for Tesleen, her dear friend cursed with the worst fate she tried to spare others.
It had taken some effort to get Alisaie back to the Inn, but they had to return Halric to the carers otherwise Tesleen’s sacrifice had been for nothing. Saphyra had told the other carers what had happened as Alisaie could not bring herself to do it. Everyone was distraught by the loss of their colleague, their friend. They could not even give her a proper burial as there was no body, which was something Tesleen had cared about very much for others. Alisaie blamed herself for being too slow, but Saphyra knew that it was not a matter of speed, they had been surprised by an enemy and were outmatched. This should and will not happen again, she promised Alisaie this.
Alisaie could not bear to stay any longer an decided she wanted to return to the Crystarium with Saphyra. She was determined to use her skills gained at the Inn to fight the battle against the sin eaters with steel, instead of kindness from now on. Saphyra happily accepted her company for the journey back, but warned her that she might need some rest first before she will seek out her brother next.
Chapter 6: Realizations
Notes:
Putting the E in explicit in this chapter. It's my first time writing anything of this nature, be gentle with me haha. Huge shout out to my friend Axel for giving me tips for scene setting, writing explicit content and reviewing this chapter, I have no idea how I would have done this without your help!!
Piece that Emet is playing is Serenade I-IX for cello composed by Hans Werner.
Chapter Text
The sand was sticking to her skin and hair from the flight back to the Crystarium through the skies of Amh Araeng. She took a quick bath and cleaned her clothing as best as she could. Refreshed, Saphyra headed to The Wandering Stairs, hoping they would still serve her a late dinner and perhaps playing piano would take her mind off the horrible events of the day. Alisaie had asked her for some alone time, and she was worried about her, but would not force her company upon her if it was not appreciated.
When she ordered at the bar Glynard happily obliged her request for a hot meal and wine provided she would repay him with some songs later. “Is that gentleman not ‘ere with you tonight?” He asked later when he brought out her food and wine. “You played nicely together; I could use some extra patrons.” Saphyra froze for a moment. She had completely forgotten about the Garlean and the possibility of meeting him here again.
“We are not actually friends or anything. I was out of the city, so I have no idea my apologies, Glynard.” Saphyra hastily explained.
“Don’t fret, lass.” Glynard laughed. “I’m sure they’ll enjoy your playing well enough. Dinner’s ‘n drink’s on me.”
“Thanks, Glynard, you are too kind, as always.”
He just smiled and shrugged in response, while walking over to another patron. She recognized the dwarf; she had seen them the previous time as well. They seemed to drink a lot, so at least they would bring in business tonight. She resumed eating her meal while it was still hot, and she enjoyed her wine. If this world was not in danger, she might have considered staying here for a while, just returning to her old ways of playing piano for coin again.
As she finished her meal and Glynard filled her glass again with another serving of wine she heard a cello behind her. “Ah, there you have ‘m. Guess he knew you’d be around.” Glynard said with a sparkle in his eye, knowing his coinpurse would be heavier tonight. “I guess duty calls then,” Saphyra said slightly anxiously. “See you later, Glynard.”
She walked over to the Garlean who completely ignored her as he kept playing his piece to completion. Saphyra sipped her wine as she anxiously stood there waiting for him to finish playing, despite enjoying the music very much. He was exceptionally skilled, so it was hard not to enjoy it, but she had no idea how to talk to him after what transpired between them. But clearly, he was here to meet again otherwise he would not show up with his instrument again, right?
He drew out the last note of the piece and lifted his bow from the strings and looked up at her. “Hello hero, I see you have adopted a different look, have I inspired you to wear gloves nowadays?” He said with a smirk.
Saphyra’s face immediately flushed. How could he just throw her off immediately with only one comment on her appearance. “I noticed my staff gave me calluses in places I did not want them so I thought gloves would be better when I was buying new clothing anyway…” She said as she said down on the piano bench.
The Garlean leaned over to her and asked: “What did you need new clothing for? When I left you in your quarters there was nothing wrong with your attire.”
Her face became even hotter. “You left marks on my neck; the whole world did not need to know what I do in my private time.” She hissed at him.
“Oh, come now, a little healing magic is surely not beyond the capabilities of the vaunted hero of the Source now, is it? I’m sure you could have easily remedied that.” He laughed. “But I am not insulting you, I find your new attire rather elegant compared to that armor you were wearing.”
This was dangerous territory. Admittedly, she could have easily healed the bruises, but they were a memory of an interesting night, and she would rather they fade away on their own. She did not really expect to meet him again and thought it would have been a one-time thing. But here they are again. “I-i kept them as a memory.” She blurted out, before she could think of the consequences and averted her eyes as she did not want to see his reaction.
“If you play nicely tonight, I might be inclined to give you more.” He said and grabbed her chin with two fingers. “Perhaps lay off the wine as well, my dear.”
He had her play for nearly two hours before he was satisfied with her performance and then he led her to her room, his hand on her lower back guiding her as if it was the most normal thing in the world. She was nervous because the last time she was not sober. Was this a selfish thing to do? To distract herself from the horrors of the day? At least she would not suffer another hangover, which was definitely an improvement. When they entered her quarters, the Garlean closed the doors behind them and she locked them with a loud click, leaving the key inside the lock.
When she turned around after trying to compose herself for a moment, he was already standing very close to her. She was startled by this, and she moved back, hitting her back against the door with a thud. The room was eerily silent and only a few candles lit up the room, which she assumed the Garlean must have lit while her back was turned. He loomed over her and grabbed her chin softly with his right hand, his gloves notably absent. “Are you nervous, hero?” He smirked. “Didn’t you nearly beg for this two nights ago while you were moaning on my lap?”
Saphyra’s face heated up for the umpteenth time tonight and she tried to turn her head away in embarrassment, but his grip on her chin was too strong. “It’s nothing to be embarrassed about, my dear, just tell me what you want. I’m in a generous mood tonight after you indulged me for so long.”
“I want to forget about today and it felt really good being with you…” She started hesitantly, but unable to take her eyes of him. His golden eyes seemed to glow in this light. “I want to see more of you, I think.” She felt incredibly awkward expressing her feelings. Nobody had ever asked her this before. She had laid with men and women before and it just happened after one too many drinks or with Zenos in their bizarre combat highs. This was an odd experience.
“A distraction then, very well.” He said and he finally pressed his lips on hers. She melted into him immediately as she exhaled the breath, she did not realize she had been holding, the stress leaving her body in an instant as her instincts took over. Her hands moved towards his leather coat, and she tried to move it off his shoulders. He assisted her with all the undoing all the intricate parts of it and let it drop to the floor and she could hear it fall with a loud thud. She moved to the buttons of his undershirt next, noting the quality of the fabric. It felt incredibly soft in her hands, like the finest silk.
She pulled back from the kiss for a moment. “Are you incredibly rich or? I have never felt fabrics this fine before.” The Garlean pulled her against him and leaned over so he could talk into her ear. “Perhaps you should pick up a book instead of a weapon next time you’re on the Source. We’re not here to talk, are we?”
He pulled the hair tie that held her hair up in a thick ponytail and her hair fell in long black locks over her shoulders. His hands then returned to his own garments and he quickly undid the buttons of his long undershirt which he tossed aside on the floor. Even in the dim lit room she could see his well-built physique, despite his slouch he was very muscular.
She could not resist touching him, but as she reached out, he stopped her by grabbing her hand. “Patience, hero.” He murmured. Saphyra decided to just let him lead her and forget, forget about who he could be, forget about today, about whatever else held her back, and to just enjoy.
The Garlean then turned her around to face the door and moved her hair to the side as he started undoing the buttons of the top of the dress near her neck. With each button, more of her skin revealed itself in the candlelight and he kissed her neck slowly. She shivered in anticipation. The dress did not allow for any binding underneath and the only thing that held it together was the corset under the open back.
He slowly kissed down her back as he unlaced her corset while she let out unsteady breaths. Her dress fell to the cold marble floor with a rustling sound. The cold air in the room touched her skin and made her shiver lightly. The Garlean noticed this and embraced her from behind. The heat of his torso felt amazing on her skin, immediately warming her up. “Are you cold, hero?” He asked in a low voice as his hands roamed around her body, ending up at her breasts and he started to massage them.
She felt his erection pressed against her and he suddenly started teasing her nipples. Saphyra let out a moan. “A..aah.. a little cold, yes.” She managed to say. All of a sudden, he picked her up in one fell swoop and she clung to him tightly, still breathing heavily. He walked over to the bed, swiftly moved some of the blankets, laid her down on her back and immediately started getting rid of his remaining clothing.
When his erection sprung free from his smallclothes, she could not help but ogle. Despite the room being candlelit, she could still tell he was well endowed. Not surprising for a Garlean of his size perhaps, but her only frame of reference here was Zenos.
Saphyra decided to stop being passive and removed her gloves, boots, thigh high tights, but when she got to her smallclothes the Garlean was faster than her and swiftly stripped them off her body, dropping them on the rest of the pile of clothes on the floor. He descended upon her immediately, his arms embracing her and crashing his lips against hers.
She embraced him back and her hand went to his hair to get a grip on him as well, it was way softer than she expected. He broke away from her mouth and began to run kisses along her neck and shoulder and she could not resist moaning. “Are you sure about this, hero?” He said in between heavy breaths.
“W-what?” She panted.
He moved back up to her face and looked into her eyes, his eyes glowing in the candlelight. “Are you sure about this? Is this what you want?”
“Touch me, please.” Saphyra nearly begged. “Or aren’t you sure about this?”
“That’s all I needed to hear, my dear.”
His lips trailed further down her collarbone and to her breasts. He wrapped his lips around her nipple and softly started teasing them as his right hand moved downward towards her navel, building anticipation in her stomach. Saphyra grabbed the blankets in anticipation and let out a soft whine.
Saphyra’s breath caught as he finally made contact with her folds, his fingers discovering the wetness that had already pooled there. She grabbed his hair as he drew circles around the bundle of nerves between her legs as she moaned in relief. Finally, he touched her. She closed her eyes in pleasure as he increased his speed, building up the tension between her legs.
He suddenly dipped a finger inside her and she inhaled sharply as she grabbed his hair harsher. The Garlean stopped playing with her breast and reclaimed her mouth, forcing his tongue inside. After a few strokes he added a second finger, increasing the speed and intentionally rubbing the bundle of nerves between her legs. Gods he was good.
Saphyra moaned against his mouth as she was pushed closer and closer to the edge, unable to focus on anything but him. She started to quiver and held him even tighter than before. “I want to hear you come.” He said in a gravelly voice so close to her mouth she could feel it on her lips. Immediately she was thrusted over the edge and let out an embarrassingly loud moan.
As she came down from the high of her orgasm, he looked at her with his golden eyes and smirked before he brought his hand to his mouth and licked her juices off his fingers. Her face heated up in embarrassment, but he seemed to find it very entertaining. He kissed her softly and she could feel him nudging at her entrance.
He slowly pushed himself in and she wrapped her legs around him to force him deeper inside her until he was fully sheathed to the hilt. The Garlean groaned as he started moving in a slow pace, giving Saphyra time to adjust to the feeling.
She started clawing at his back as he increased his pace began to pick up, cry after cry coming from her lips. His rested his forehead on hers and she felt the cold presence of his Garlean third eye as he panted in pleasure above her.
It did not take long before the both of them were reaching the precipice, Saphyra meeting each of his thrusts with vigor. Her body started shaking as she clamped down around him, his release spilling inside her immediately within mere seconds after. Their breaths were labored and their bodies thick with sweat, and the Garlean softly kissed Saphyra.
Without warning she felt a stinging behind her eyes, a feeling all too familiar. As her consciousness was ripped from her body, she was experiencing another echo. She had always disliked it, despite how conveniently it had assisted her in the past, it felt wrong at times to peer into someone’s life like this.
A burning city she had never seen before overwhelmed her senses, the heat, the smell of ashes, burned flesh and decay was everywhere. It filled her with overwhelming sadness she could not explain. But then two figures suddenly appeared, and it confused her deeply. She saw a man on the ground in the dirt holding a woman in his lap, barely alive. The woman looked like her, but also not. No cat ears, no face markings, no tail, but they could have been near identical otherwise. And the man… the man looked just like the Garlean, only with long snow-white hair.
On the ground near laid two red masks, cracked and dirty, but she could still vaguely make out the markings on them. One of them had two white half circles on them, and the eye slits were almost like a squint. The other had a large circle on it with two dots on opposing sides and a small sun in the middle. She did not recognize either of them, but her mind screamed only one word: Ascian.
She had seen similar masks before, Lahabrea, Elidibus and the other Ascians had worn them, and Gaius had collected them as he had started his hunt for the Ascians. No no no no! The scene before her changed and a white light suddenly appeared to strike the sky and the woman before her and the man cried out in despair, desperately clutching the body.
Suddenly, the echo stopped, and she was back in her own mind again. As she opened her eyes, she looked into the golden eyes of the same man she had just seen, crying over a body that eerily looked like hers. She felt tears falling down her cheeks as she tried to contain her emotions. “Are you alright, hero?” He asked as he gently wiped the tears from her cheeks.
She had slept with an Ascian, gods how stupid was she?! How could she even defend herself if she asked him about it; hells what would he even say if she confronted him about it. What was his goal? He had known who she was, and she ate right out of his hand like a starved alley cat.
“I’m just a bit overwhelmed I think,” she whispered. “This usually doesn’t happen, I’m sorry.” She tried to avert her gaze so she could hide the discomfort of her realization and prayed he would not catch her lie.
“There’s no need to apologize for that, my dear,” He said as he kissed her forehead and pulled out of her slowly. The Ascian then lied on his back next to her and pulled her up to lie on his chest and covered them with blankets. As he embraced her, she felt safe and comfortable, despite her unease at the realization of who he was. She was deeply conflicted about what to do. He would probably leave if she asked him to, he had been nothing but courteous thus far.
“Have I provided adequate distraction for you tonight?" He asked her and she could feel his voice rumbling in his chest. The Ascian lifted her face with his fingers, so she was forced to look at him to answer his question. Gods, why had she put herself in this predicament. He had distracted her amazingly and that was the problem, she had felt at ease with him, felt intrigued by him and had possibly wanted to see him again. But now this would be incredibly stupid, selfish and dangerous if she did any of that.
“Yes, you most certainly did.” She decided to answer honestly, realizing that lying was not going to help her at all. He smirked at her, looking most pleased with himself. He claimed her lips for another short moment before letting her rest on his chest again. “Then rest for now hero, I’m sure the things you wanted to be distracted from will come knocking again soon enough.”
Chapter 7: Free Will
Notes:
Had some personal struggles so this one remained in the drafts for quite a while. Hope it's a decent read regardless!
Chapter Text
Saphyra awakened more well rested than she had been in a long time. The comfort of her warm bed made her hesitant to even open her eyes, so she decided to roll over one more time to get some more rest. As she tried to roll over, she noticed this was not possible, she was being firmly held in place by someone and she was suddenly reminded that she was not alone. The Ascian was lying behind her, his around her middle.
She tried to move again, and he let her go, and she could turn around to face him, only to see him awake, leaning on his elbow, gazing softly at her with his mesmerizing golden eyes. “Good morning, hero. Finally awake I see. You slept for quite some time.”
“You stayed…” She said with a tone of disbelief in her voice.
“You seemed upset last night after our coupling, it seemed discourteous to leave you to deal with that alone in the morning. So yes hero, I stayed.” He said as he tucked a lock of hair behind her ear. “You seem to have slept well, so I assume you didn’t mind my presence.”
Saphyra blushed as he brushed her cheek in passing. “I have not slept this well in a long time. I usually have nightmares… but it was peaceful for once.” She felt deeply conflicted. His presence was like a balm to her soul, but she had to ask, she had to know. But this is not something she can ask naked in bed with the enemy, unable to defend herself. Everything about this was wrong, she could not get involved with an Ascian of all people, no matter how charming he was.
“Then I’ll consider my distraction most sufficient.” He smirked.
“Most sufficient indeed,” Saphyra could not help but joke with him. “I do not think I had many coherent thoughts at all.”
The Ascian pulled her in for a kiss and she felt her resolve wane. His lips were too soft, his scent too tantalizing for her senses and she started melting into him. However, she managed to pull back after a few moments, feeling the high of the kiss still, her heart beating fast in her chest. “A-ah I am thirsty, and I want to refresh myself a bit, please give me a moment!” She blurted out as she tried to climb out of bed.
The man in her bed just leaned back against the headboard with his arms behind his head, looking at her amused as she awkwardly tried to move over him to get out of bed, towards the bathroom. She cleaned herself up quickly, something she should have done before going to sleep last night, but she had felt too overwhelmed at the time.
Saphyra splashed water in her face and looked in the mirror only to see her blood red eyes stare back at her, her pupils unnaturally dilated. Her heart was beating in her throat, how could she even confront him about this, she was no match for an Ascian on her own… she had nothing to defend herself with save her magicks.
She tried to calm herself and looked around for any inspiration on what to do. Her eye fell on the pile of clothes she had discarded there a few days prior when she was hungover, which would at least give her a modicum of decency, despite missing a boot. She got dressed, without boots unfortunately and thus barefoot, her feet feeling ice cold on the marble flooring. If it came to a blow, she wanted her hair out of the way, so she braided it just in case.
She had to pass the Ascian lying in her bed as she remembered she had dumped her staff near the table somewhere last night. Saphyra was unsure why she even bothered at this point, but she felt uneasy about not being armed if she confronted him, not that it would matter much. The bathroom was close to the bed, only she would only have to pass him quickly. She took some breaths to calm herself and stepped outside.
“Duty whisking you away already, hero?” The Ascian asked her upon seeing leaving the bathroom dressed and passing foot of the bed. “If I may speak my preference, this outfit is terribly dreary compared to what you were wearing last night.”
Saphyra’s face flushed as she refused to meet his eyes and kept moving towards her staff. “Something like that,” she said as she exhaled a sharp breath in relief as her hands closed around her staff, feeling more secure now that she had her weapon by her side. “I know you are an Ascian.”
She turned around to see his reaction and braced herself to attack him if needed, but he just laid there in her bed, smiling at her. “Oh, do you now? Is that why you needed to get dressed and get your weapon, famed Ascian slayer? We could have discussed this in the comfort of a warm bed with breakfast, but if you want to do it this way, very well.” He sighed, got out of bed and snapped his fingers. His clothes immediately appeared on his body.
He walked closer to her and looked at her up and down before snapping another time. Saphyra felt her clothes change and she suddenly had her outfit on from last night and her shoes and gloves as well. “This color really does suit you better.” He smirked. Saphyra just blinked in astonishment; she knew she was right about his identity, but this was not really the response she was expecting.
“But where are my manners,” he continued, after which he revealed his glyph before bowing at the waist for her. “I am Emet-Selch.” His glyph faded and he looked at her most amused. “Though you might know me by another name more familiar than that. Solus zos Galvus, founder of the Garlean Empire.”
“Varis and Gaius spoke of you,” Saphyra said coldly, “They both did not seem particularly fond of you.”
“They don’t need to be, my dear.” Emet-Selch laughed. “But you seem particularly well acquainted with Garleans. Did you add them to your conquests as well?”
“You’re such a fucking ass,” she spat at him in rage, gripping her staff tighter. “It’s none of your godsdamned business what I do but no I didn’t.”
“One could only assume certain things after you whored yourself out to my monstrous great-grandson”, the Ascian shrugged. “But perhaps you had noble motives, you are the precious hero of the Source after all.”
Before she knew it, she lurched at him to slap him in his face, but before her hand could hit him, he had grabbed her by her wrist. He raised a brow. “Is casual conversation beneath you, hero?”
Her nostrils flared in anger. “The only thing you’re doing is insulting me, how is that casual conversation?!”
“You chose to enter the conversation with your little weapon, not that you can kill me in a way that matters right now, so I chose to at least make it a bit entertaining,” he explained with a shrug as he let her go. “I assumed you were quite horrified by my identity when you realized who I was.”
“I always had a hunch something did not add up… I just did not figure it out until it was too late,” Saphyra said when she had calmed down a bit.
Emet-Selch grabbed her chin and made her look at him and his aggravatingly beautiful golden eyes. “I gave you plenty of opportunity to back out. I did not take advantage of you when you were inebriated moaning in my lap. I made sure you were sober and asked for your consent. You did not care to know, hero, do not lie to yourself.”
Her mouth set in a hard line. “I did not. I was selfish and wanted to forget my burdens just for a moment. And now I reap the consequences of my stupidity.”
He let her go and sighed dramatically. “You speak as if you sold your soul to a fiend that requires you to serve them for life instead of a night of pleasure. I’m curious to hear how you pieced it together, however.”
Saphyra suddenly got nervous; the echo had been stranger than the other ones she had experienced before. More vivid, as if she had experienced it herself instead of just watching someone else’s memory. It frightened her and she did not really want to talk about it. But she really could not come up with anything better on the spot that was a more suitable explanation as to how she did not know earlier.
“Cat got your tongue?” He teased. “Come on, hero, tell me.”
“When we had sex…” She started hesitantly. “I have this blessing from Hydaelyn that allows me to see into the past, we call it the Echo.” Saphyra nervously fiddled with her fingers on her free hand.
“Go on,” Emet-Selch said with a tone of impatience.
“Right after, uh, our climax, I saw a memory of yours, that is how I figured it out.” Saphyra summarized, completely avoiding the contents of the memory, hoping he would not ask.
“What did you see?” He asked, his voice suddenly cold and serious.
“I do not want to talk about it, I just know who you are is that not enough?” She said in a meek voice.
He grabbed her arm in which she held her staff firmly, his grip so strong it hurt a little. “What did you see?” He asked again, his voice more intense this time and he used his other hand to once again to force her to look at him. His golden eyes were peering into hers with an intensity she had not seen before. “These are my memories you saw, hero, you don’t get to keep those to yourself.”
“I-i saw a city that I didn’t recognize… b-burning, the sky was aflame,” she stammered. “I could feel the heat. The smell of ash, burnt flesh and decay was overwhelming.” She felt tears pricking in her eyes but tried to continue speaking.
“I saw a man who looked exactly like you, but his hair was longer and white as snow. H-he also had no Garlean eye now that I think of it. He was sitting in the dirt c-cradling a body of a woman.” She continued, but a tear fell from her eye. This seemed to confuse the Ascian but his grip on her arm had become even more painful.
“She looked a lot like me but also a bit different. I s-saw two masks near them, dirty and broken, but I recognized the design as like the ones I’ve seen Elidibus and Lahabrea wear. T-that’s when I knew.” Saphyra said teary eyed.
“Was that the end of the memory?” Emet-Selch asked her, his grip still firm and his voice still cold.
“N-no,” Saphyra said quickly, before she lost the nerve to speak. “A white light seemed to suddenly strike the sky and the woman. I saw the man… well, you I think, cry out in despair and clutch the body. T-that’s where it ended.” She looked at him nervously, waiting for him to respond. She had not wanted to talk about it despite him being a mortal enemy of hers, it seemed insensitive to dangle such a personal trauma in front of someone.
“Why are you shedding tears for your enemy, Ascian slayer?” He sneered. “Don’t you revel in our despair, the demise of my brethren, which you propagate?”
“No, I don’t! I didn’t! I didn’t know I just tried to protect people!” Saphyra said with a sob clawing up her throat. “So many people would’ve died I didn’t do anything, my hand was forced.”
“And so you kill and kill on command, like a trained little soldier, never questioning orders, never thinking for yourself.” Emet-Selch said with a sigh, finally letting his iron grip on her arm go. “Why do you empathize with me then, hero? It was clear you didn’t want to talk about this.”
“I was afraid of how you’d react…” she said, rubbing the painful spot on her arm. “It seemed too personal; I didn’t want to throw that in your face. As you said before, you have not mistreated me in any way so far, there is no reason for me to be cruel to you.”
Emet-Selch started laughing. “You wanted to spare my feelings? You’re a strange person, Saphyra.”
Saphyra. This was the first time he had ever used her name. No hero, no Ascian slayer, no Mistress Netherlight, just Saphyra. How odd.
“As are you, Emet-Selch,” she retorted. “I think you knew exactly who I was when you approached me for a duet that night.”
“Guilty as charged.” He shrugged nonchalantly. “Is it a crime to want to get to know the vaunted hero of the Source?”
“As it stands not yet, but depending on how this all plays out it might change.” Saphyra smirked, challenging him.
“Are you finally going to put that staff of yours to use, or did you have anything else in mind?”
Saphyra threw her staff to the ground, and it hit the marble with a loud clank. “We both know I wasn’t going to do that. I just needed some feeling of security,” she sighed in resignation. “I’m on the First where my strings are already being pulled by another. Hells, my arrival was premediated without me being able to refuse the path that lies ahead.”
Emet-Selch just let her sort her through her thoughts out loud, observing her neutrally. “I wanted to shed the mantle of the Warrior of Light after we liberated Ala Mhigo. I was done, with everything. But then the Empire struck back, and I was dragged into the fray again by my friends. They needed me and I couldn’t ignore their plight. I never could and I don’t think I ever will be able to. So, I want to decide for myself when I can. Even if that makes me selfish.”
“I felt something last night, despite knowing who you were, I felt safe with you,” Saphyra’s face flushed, and she averted her gaze. “Before the judgements my friends will inevitably cast upon you when our paths cross here, as I assume your presence here is also not without a reason, I want to get to know you. You said you wanted to get to know me too, so that’s where I stand.”
She looked up to gauge his reaction and Emet-Selch had a sad look in his eyes, but his sadness seemed somehow not aimed at her. His gaze was aimed at her, but it was not focused, as if he was looking beyond her, at something she could not quite see.
When he noticed she had met his eyes again he quickly slipped his well-crafted mask of nonchalance back on and cupped her cheek while smirking. “So, this is what you do with that free will of yours, hero? Turn your back on your friends and consorting with your sworn enemy?”
“As long as you don’t hurt them, we will probably not need to put you in a nice white auracite prison to destroy you, so I see no harm in indulging my desire to get to know you.” Saphyra smiled at feigning innocence.
His golden gaze softened. “Then let’s get acquainted, Saphyra Netherlight.” He put emphasis on her name as if he had to remind himself who she was.
“Okay, Emet-Selch,” she said as his face got closer to hers. When his lips touched hers, she felt him tense up, but he relaxed into the kiss soon enough. Later, she thought to herself, it does not matter right now, maybe once he is more comfortable, she could ask about what this all meant. She did not want to claw at the wound she had opened mere minutes before.
Before she knew it, he had stripped her out of her clothes again and they had returned to her bed. He pulled moan after moan from her lips as he pleasured her with his hands and tongue. When their bodies were united again, she felt complete and at ease. She noticed the sadness in Emet-Selch’s eyes occasionally, but every time he noticed her looking at him, he softened his expression and kissed her. Had he done this last night as well? She did not know. She would not ask. Not today.
After they both reached their climax, he pulled her on his chest again and kissed the top of her head. “I should head out soon, to find my other friend...” Saphyra murmured.
“I have kept you long enough, our paths will cross soon enough, my dear.”
Emet-Selch got out of bed, and she followed him, leaving the warm comfort of her soft sheets behind. He snapped and her clothes reappeared on their bodies. Her hair was nicely braided again, and she felt oddly clean. How efficient. “Thank you, Emet-Selch,” she smiled at him. “I’m glad we’ve come to an understanding.”
He laughed at her. “If that’s how you want to call it, my dear, go ahead. Now don’t dawdle and go find that friend of yours.” He kissed her again before summoning a portal she had seen other Ascians disappear into before. Emet-Selch waved at her lazily while grinning as he stepped into it and disappeared from her room.
Later.
Chapter 8: Stormclouds
Notes:
It took me a long time upload this, sorry for the wait. I drew from personal experiences writing this which was admittedly very challenging and uncomfortable to do. I commissioned very nice art to go alongside with the ending of this chapter but I can't for the life of me figure out how to make it show up here, so once I do I'll add it later! Please look forward to it when I do.
Edit: I figured out how to do it. Please find the art at the bottom of the fic :) It's a lovely piece drawn by Cascanor, I will link her socials as well!
Chapter Text
Saphyra found herself at the entrance of the Crystal Tower again. She had considered checking up on Alisaie but remembered her reluctance to talk about difficult situations and decided to give her some more time to process what happened to Tesleen. Instead, she left a note at her door that she was going to seek out Alphinaud and that she was going to be gone from the Crystarium for a few days, with a small basket of food and fruits she bought at the Musica Universalis to ensure she would at least take care of herself. Saphyra hoped she would understand her sentiment behind the gesture.
The Crystarium Gatekeep informed her that the Crystal Exarch was ready to see her and let her pass. When she arrived in the Ocular, he was patiently waiting for her, arms crossed, not greeting her upon entering the room. “Good afternoon, Exarch. I believe it is time for me to seek out Alphinaud,” she started.
“Alisaie seemed quite distressed when she returned, is everything alright with her?” He asked flatly.
“I am not sure if you have spoken to her, but if you have not, she has decided to return at her own volition,” Saphyra responded coldly, her ears flattening at his demeanor as if she had something to do with this. “We could not save a friend of hers from a sin eater attack in Amh Araeng, so it only makes sense she is upset. I am giving her space to process events, as she generally prefers in situations like this. I left her a basket of food and fruits and a note that I will be seeking out her brother. Despite your insinuations, I am not heartless, Exarch.”
“My apologies, I was not aware.” He said, seemingly flustered now. “She refused to speak to me, saying she wanted some time alone and I thought you had something to do with this. I jumped to conclusions prematurely.”
“Despite the way I act towards you does not mean I do not care for my friends that you brought here. I would not be here if it was not for them, please remember that. However, the situation in Amh Araeng has given me a better understanding of the circumstances of those who have been attacked by sin eaters and survived.” Saphyra did not feel like starting another argument with him. Perhaps the route of understanding might give her what she needed quicker as he still made her feel uneasy. She knew he wanted her help, but just how much did he need from her and how far did she need to go this time?
“I see, you have experienced first-hand how it affects the people then. Rather grim, isn’t it?” The Exarch lamented.
Saphyra would have immediately agreed with him under normal circumstances if it was not for the fact that he was the person who said it. She could not shake the feeling that he was using her innate urge to want to protect people to use her for his cause and manipulate her in ways that she was not sure of yet. She could not shake the feeling that there was something more to this, some grander plan in which she had to play a part. He could have sent a message to both Alisaie and Alphinaud and they surely would have taken a short reprieve from their duties to meet with her and return to their business.
“Yes, and I am sure that is the reason urged me to meet with the twins instead of letting them know I arrived in the First.”
“Their duties are important to them and the people of the – “
“It is fine, Exarch, I do not mind traveling. I am merely stating a fact. You do not have to obfuscate your intentions as well. They have been here for a year, working hard, I am sure a short reprieve to meet a friend accompanied by a nice dinner would not have been too much to ask?” Saphyra replied coldly, crossing her arms, but the swishing of tail betrayed her irritation.
“Not everyone can drop everything to be by your side to indulge your whims, Saphyra.” The Exarch sounded disappointed as he said this. “We have all labored hard to save your life, don’t you think it’s a bit ungrateful to speak of their efforts this way?”
Saphyra froze for a moment. “I never asked to be saved… I do not know what you think you know of me, but I have had no intention of keeping the mantle of the Warrior of Light ever since we liberated Ala Mhigo. I have not wanted this life for a long time, but I keep being forced back into it.” Her voice wavered as she spoke those last words, not really knowing whether to place the blame elsewhere or at her own feet for allowing it to happen.
“Your friends think the world would be a worse place without you in it, don’t you think it’s up to them to decide for themselves if it’s a cause they want to wage their lives for and have been for years?” The Exarch voice sounded laced with sadness, it was clear to Saphyra he was not scolding her, he was feeling sorry for her. “Even if you don’t think your life is worth saving, they clearly don’t agree. Your burdens have been countless, that much is true, but you are not alone anymore.”
Saphyra felt tears prickling in her eyes and she curled her fingers into a fist to suppress the urge to cry. “I am so tired, G’raha, when will it end? You know I would never turn back from people in need, but when do I get to live for me? When Alisaie dragged me back from the brink I realized that I always gave every part of myself to others, my hands guided by those who asked, never questioning orders.”
A tear fell from her eyes, not being able to suppress it any longer. “My hands are soaked in blood. Those who stand opposed to the Weapon of Light die, their fate sealed the moment we lock eyes. Those who stand with the Weapon of Light die, their fate sealed the moment they cast their die with me. I have tried so hard to protect people, but too many have slipped through my fingers. These are my burdens, my sins, nobody can take that weight off me.”
Saphyra’s whole body started shaking, the memories of those who died flashing vividly in her mind. The Exarch reached out his crystalized hand to grip her shoulder. “Saphyra, listen, you ca…” The Exarch’s voice got lost as she could no longer focus on it, her memories overwhelming her. Cries rung in her ears, explosions around her loud enough to make her cringe. Her heartbeat increased to an alarming level as if her heart wanted to leave her chest, and she wanted to do nothing more than run.
“SAPHYRA, PLEASE, CAN YOU HEAR ME!?” The Exarch pleaded with her as he shook her shoulders, clearly in distress, not understanding what was happening to her. She momentarily regained enough control to focus on his voice. “I-i need to go, give me information on Alphinaud and let me leave!” Saphyra sobbed, tears streaming from her face, inhaling with sharp breaths trying not to hyperventilate. “Let me get you to your room.” The Exarch murmured.
She remembered little about how she got to her room or how long she had been curled up like a ball on her side in bed, reliving memories of her worst days, shaking and sweating. Saphyra felt like she was freezing even though the Exarch apparently put the blankets on top of her before he left, she had not even noticed. But the onslaught of memories finally seemed to subside, and she took deep breaths to try to calm herself.
Suddenly, her mattress bent under the weight of the presence of someone else. She felt the touch of silken soft gloves brush her wet hair out of her face, and she could feel the heat of the hand radiating underneath the gloves. “You finally stopped shaking, hero, what ails you so? Shouldn’t you be out there meeting with your friend?” A familiar voice asked gently, stroking her scarred cheek.
“E-emet-Selch? What are you doing here?” Saphyra asked in a weaker voice than she anticipated. She felt so exhausted; she wanted to sleep but was afraid that nightmares follow her there as well.
“I was just keeping an eye on you, you know, anticipating the enemy’s next move,” he chuckled, still softly stroking her cheek with his pleasantly soft gloves. “I have been here for some time.”
“Could you hold me for a while?" Saphyra asked hesitantly. “I’m so cold.”
“Of course, my dear.”
She felt the weight of Emet-Selch leave her mattress and heard the ruffling of clothes and metal clasps being undone. The sound of heavy fabrics dropping to the marble floor followed not soon after. She felt him slip underneath the blankets and pull her into his chest as he wrapped his arms around her. He was still wearing pants and an undershirt, but the heat radiating from his body was pleasant and comforting. Emet-Selch just held her, not moving, not speaking, waiting until she slowly warmed due to his touch.
Saphyra turned around in his arms and nestled in his chest. “Thank you,” she murmured against his shirt, damp from her sweaty hair. “I’m not so cold anymore.”
“Do you want to stay in bed and get some rest or would you like me to draw you a bath?” Emet-Selch asked her, his voice vibrating in his chest. Saphyra liked that feeling, she noticed. She could not explain why but she felt safe with him for some reason. He could smite her out of existence, sure, but when she was weak and vulnerable he did nothing but wait for her to come back to herself. For what reason would he do that? Why was he being so gentle with her now?
“I’m not sure if I can sleep, I’m afraid of getting nightmares when I’m like this.” She sighed into his damp undershirt as she gripped it firmly. “I’m exhausted though, so either option sounds appealing.”
“Do you want me to choose for you, hero?” He asked gently. She nodded in his chest. Perhaps that was easier, just letting him take care of her for a while. She felt safe with him, why not let him do this for her.
Emet-Selch slowly removed his arms from around her body and slipped out of the bed. She immediately missed the heat of his body against hers. She looked at him and his glowing golden eyes looked back at her, gentle, but he looked a bit disheveled overall. His hair was messy, and his shirt was half unbuttoned, probably to allow her to have more access to his body heat. “Don’t worry, I will be back in a minute.” He said as he walked towards the bathroom.
She heard the creaking sound of the bathtub faucet being turned on in the bathroom and soon the consistent sound of the water filling the tub followed. Not even a few seconds later Emet-Selch returned to the room and walked to her side. He bend over and lifted her out of bed. She let out a shriek of surprise as the blankets struggled to fall from her body due to the sweat residue making them stick to her. Emet-Selch carried her to the bathroom where she was greeted by a pleasant lavender smell and put her down carefully next to the bath which was already filling up quickly.
He looked at her disheveled state next to the bath as she did not move yet and smirked. Without saying a word, he moved to undo the messy ponytail and braids she had not undone herself and grabbed a brush from the sink. He started gently brushing her long hair until it was fully free of knots and tangles. He touched her shoulder with his silken gloves and asked her: “Would you like me to help you bathe?”
Saphyra flushed and hesitated to answer. She was sure he did not mean anything else by it and it would be nice to be taken care of… She did not want to bathe alone and accidentally fall asleep and have nightmares in the bathtub. “That sounds really nice actually… I don’t think anyone has ever bathed me before.”
He helped her undress and tested the water before turning off the faucet after which he lifted her slowly into the hot water. She hissed as her aching muscles acclimated to the heat and she stretched in the large bath, which was definitely a perk of being a Miqo’te. She thought a large Roegadyn could have easily fit in here.
She turned to Emet-Selch, and he was holding a shampoo bottle in his hands ready to wash her hair. Saphyra looked him over and an idea formed in her head, but she was unsure if she should ask him for it. He had been very gentle with her, so she decided to swallow her doubts and just went for it. “You look like you could use a bath yourself, you could join me if you’d like?” Her face burned red hot and not only from the heat of the water.
“If that is what you want, my dear.” He smirked and undressed himself, tossing his clothes aside and stepping behind her in the bath with ease. The water nearly reached the edge of the bath now, almost overflowing if they were not careful. He embraced her from behind and she rested her head on his chest. Emet-Selch reached for the shampoo bottle again and started massaging the liquid into her hair and scalp. Saphyra hummed in appreciation; she never knew how intimate something like this could be.
She drained a little water from the bath so Emet-Selch could rinse out the shampoo for her and she returned the favor of shampooing his hair for him. Saphyra had always enjoyed taking care of people, but this was very different. It felt deeply personal to her to wash each other’s hair and bodies, not really speaking, just being in the moment and at ease.
After they were done cleaning, each other she relaxed back into his chest and sighed in comfort. “Thank you for this, that was exactly what I needed.” He kissed the top of her head in response. “Do you know what time it is? I have no idea how long has passed since I left my room.”
“It’s around evening by now, not that you would be able to tell by the sky.” He responded.
“Oh you know what I mean,” she grinned. “Maybe I should try to sleep then, I’m not really hungry anyway.”
“Finally, a smile from the vaunted hero of the Source, maybe all is not lost.” Emet-Selch retorted as he slowly rose from the bath and stepped out. He offered her his hand to help her out of the bath. With a snap they were both covered in fluffy white towels to dry off. She realized he could have probably just magically dried them, but this was a more pleasant experience.
When they both were done drying themselves off, he snapped again, and he was wearing a clean pair of slacks and a new undershirt, still half unbuttoned. Surprisingly he was also wearing his gloves, but she did not mind, she quite liked the feeling of them, and she also hoped he would not leave just yet.
Her hair was still damp, so she generally waited a while to dress herself or braided her hair while wet. Emet-Selch however was an impatient man, so he took note of this and snapped again to dry her hair magically and just shrugged in response when she raised an eyebrow at him.
He did seem to have enjoyed brushing her hair as he immediately reached for the hairbrush again and started brushing her hair, finishing with a simple braid across her face and pinning it up on the side. Similarly to how she did part of her everyday hairstyle but not quite as elaborate.
“You always have that specific hairstyle, but I like it when your hair is down, so see this as a compromise for tonight.” He explained nonchalantly, when she looked at him in surprise when he was done. She just smiled at him while blushing. He could have her hair any way he liked tonight after taking care of her like this, she did not care at all, if he would not let her sleep alone.
Saphyra walked to the wardrobe in the other room to find something suitable to sleep in and found some simple black shorts and a nice purple and gold woven top she had bought in Kugane a long time ago. She had forgotten she brought this, but it was crafted very well so it was suitable to sleep in. When she had changed into her sleepwear, she felt exhausted to the point she would pass out soon.
Emet-Selch was right behind her and took her hand to lead her to bed. He had refreshed the sheets, and she noticed he had made the bed look a lot more comfortable than it looked before. “Hope you don’t mind I took some liberties with your decoration. It was a bit barebones for my taste in comfort.” He looked at her playfully, clearly open to reverse the change if she would hate it.
She shook her head. “Not at all, if you stay while I sleep you can do whatever you like to this place. I trust you.” She saw a hint of surprise in his eyes, but he seemed pleased with her answer as he urged her join him in the comfort of the soft sheets. Emet-Selch pulled her closer with his hand on the small of her back and she put her leg on top of his. Saphyra rested her head against the gap between his arm and his chest and grabbed his undershirt and sighed contentedly.
“Rest now, my dear. I will be here in the morning. You’re safe, I’ll watch over you tonight.” Emet-Selch assured her.
“Thank you, I don’t know why you’re doing this,” Saphyra said as she gripped his undershirt tighter. “Thank you for everything.”
“Hush now, we can talk in the morning,” he shushed her. “You only need to rest now for me, nothing else.” He kissed the top of her head softly and Saphyra loosened her grip on his undershirt.
“Okay, tomorrow.”
“I don’t need sleep like you do. I will watch over you while you rest, so please rest, Saphyra.” Emet-Selch said reassuringly as he hugged her even closer.
Her name on his lips made her feel warm inside. He was right, she felt safe with him and if he watched over her, she had nothing to worry about. She finally closed her eyes and let the darkness take over, guiding her into a dreamless sleep, protected in the arms of someone she would have considered her mortal enemy not long ago.
Saphyra and Emet-Selch by Cascanor.
Chapter 9: Missives
Notes:
Apologies for the lack of updates, I had some health issues that I needed to deal with
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
When stirred to wake, she felt the soft silken sheets against her skin and the warmth of Emet-Selch’s body pressed against hers. He had not left her alone while she rested; the thought made her smile slightly and a warm feeling blossomed in her chest. She felt the fabric of his soft gloves as he stroked her cheek gently. “Smiling as you wake, I see someone had a good rest. You look a lot better, my dear.”
She opened her eyes now to look at him and he gently gazed down at her, his golden eyes mesmerizing her more than usual, but she noticed the exhaustion in his face. He always had dark circles underneath his eyes, but they looked more intense than usual. “I did, thanks to you. You look like you could use some sleep however,” she said as she nuzzled in his chest again, closing her eyes. “Why don’t you sleep for a while? I don’t mind just being here with you.”
“And leave myself vulnerable to you so you can take my life?” Emet-Selch whispered teasingly in her ear. “I don’t think so, hero.”
Saphyra laughed. “Oh please, I thought we were past that. You took care of me last night, let me take care of you now.” She moved her lips close to his and ghosted them. “I really am thankful for what you did, I can’t describe what that meant to me. I’m not good at asking for help.” Saphyra pressed her lips to his for a moment for the most chaste kiss they had shared thus far. It was important to her that she wanted to convey her feelings more than anything, not her desires for once.
“Hero…” Emet-Selch groaned, clear annoyance in his tone. “Don’t you have better things to do like seeking out your friend?”
Saphyra sat up and pushed him back in the pillows of the bed with both her hands. She hovered over his face and stared into his glowing eyes as her hair fell around them like a curtain. “Just sleep a little, please?” She pleaded with him. “Even if it’s just for an hour or so, I’ll feel better if you’ve rested as well so I don’t feel like I have taken advantage of your kindness too much.”
He sighed in defeat. “Fine, but only because you won’t stop bothering me about it. What will you do in the meantime?”
She smiled at him, happy with her victory in their tug of war, and moved her body to his side so she could lie on his chest again. “I figured I’d just stay right here until I get bored, maybe make us some breakfast after, if I think you’ve rested enough.”
Emet-Selch did not respond, but he put his arm around her. Saphyra considered this a final admittance of defeat, and she was very pleased with herself. With her free arm, she pulled the soft blankets over them and reveled in the heat of his body, while listening to his heartbeat. After a while, she could hear his breathing evening out and he had fallen asleep.
They laid there for quite a while and Saphyra had to admit she enjoyed his presence more than she wanted to. The way he took care of her last night changed something for her and she did not know what to do with those feelings. She was grateful, of course, but what kind of man she’s supposed to be at odds with does that for someone he barely knows? It was a deeply intimate experience for her somehow, despite having slept with him, this was different.
After an hour or two of overthinking, she slipped from his grasp and left the comfort of the warm bed. She had not been able to fall asleep again at all and she was afraid her rumbling stomach would wake him up at some point.
Before she headed to the pantry to see what she could make for breakfast, she turned around to look at him. Emet-Selch’s face looked relaxed, he did not frown for once, and his dark circles seemed less intense already. Saphyra had not seen him look this serene before and suddenly she realized she was in deep trouble. She should not care about him at all, he is an Ascian and there is no way he would not use this against her in some wicked way.
But her heart was lonely, and she had promised him breakfast for his kindness, how much could that hurt her? Saphyra walked over to the table to turn on the lamp so she could inspect the pantry. She hoped this would not wake the peacefully sleeping Emet-Selch, but he would have had at least two or three hours of rest by her estimate.
The light was luckily fairly dim, and she did not hear him rouse from his slumber and she let out a breath she did not realize she had been holding in anticipation. This should be light enough for her to cook with. The light however revealed a basket filled with a variety of fruits and a letter on the table she had not noticed before.
Saphyra did not recognize the neat but simple handwriting and opened the letter first. It was from the Exarch, and she hoped he left it before Emet-Selch had shown up. She should remember to ask him when he would wake later. She started reading the letter in its entirety:
“Dear Saphyra,
Please find another letter included addressed to Szem Djenmai, the Master of Beasts at the Temenos Rookery here at the Crystarium. When you have recovered and feel well enough to seek out Alphinaud, this letter of introduction should be sufficient to provide you with a passage to Kholusia to seek him out.
I hope the fruits will be to your liking.
G’raha.”
She found another page and as promised it was indeed a letter of introduction signed by the Exarch. Saphyra felt like this was maybe his way of trying to apologize for what happened yesterday or perhaps showing that he was worried about her wellbeing. She did not really know how to interpret it. She could not really remember much of what transpired between them other than that she got angry again, and that it triggered an episode.
A familiar feeling of knots in her stomach plagued her, anxiety spiking slightly. Saphyra had needed his help to get to her room, she remembered that much, and she did not like being indebted to him like this. There was so much left unspoken, so much unresolved animosity.
It had been a while since she had an episode that bad, and she was worried about the implications of it. Of course, the disappearance of the Scions souls from their bodies had put her more on edge but Lyse had managed to keep her sane enough to not fall back into old patterns.
Her friends had put a lot of effort into putting her back together, helping her realize her burdens were not hers alone to carry and that it was acceptable to ask for help. But the creeping feelings of loneliness and the bloodstains on her hands seemed to not really fade with time after all. It was like a monster lurking inside her gnawing at her skin waiting to claw its way out.
Saphyra decided to put the letter in her bag for the time being and focus on the task at hand. The pantry had basic ingredients, like a variety of local spices and things like flour, but no fresh items, so the fruit was all she had. Not many options for breakfast then if this was all she had at her disposal. There were some pans and basic kitchen utensils, and the stove looked good for use.
She pondered her options for a moment and decided to scribble a quick note on a piece of parchment and left it on a pillow next to Emet-Selch for him to find in case he would wake and find her gone.
“Out to buy eggs and milk, be back soon.
Saphyra”
She swiftly locked the door behind her and hurried to the Musica Universalis to find a merchant selling the ingredients she needed. After quickly exchanging gil to acquire the necessary goods, she went back to her room and placed the eggs and milk on the table, trying to make as little noise as possible.
However, this was unnecessary. Before she even closed the door, she already noticed the bed was empty and the sheets looked like they had been replaced as the bed was all neat and tidied up. Emet-Selch was gone, and her room was deserted. Saphyra felt a pang of sadness in her chest, loneliness gripping her heart once more. Had she done something wrong?
Her eye fell on the piece of parchment she had left on the bed, which was now on the table. Apparently, he had moved it before he disappeared. She quickly walked over to it, hope bursting in her chest that he might have left an explanation for her. In an elegant hand she found a very short message from him.
“You have important work to attend to, hero.
ES.”
She tore the note in half and threw it on the floor. Without paying attention to any of her purchases, she quickly looked for her clothes in the bathroom, where she found both of her outfits neatly cleaned and folded. Infuriating. He had left everything neat as if he had never been there. The only thing that had remained unchanged were the decorations of her bed, which he had refined to his personal comfort, albeit fitting to the colors of her room.
Saphyra quickly got dressed in her dark red attire which she preferred by now despite the new memories attached to it and braided her hair in the style Lyse had taught her. She had considered keeping it unbraided for him today, but she threw that idea out of the window right away. Why did she even care what he thought? What did it matter to her what he thought about the way she wears her hair or that he left without saying anything?
She grabbed her bag and staff and walked out towards the Musica Universalis again to buy a simple breakfast there instead of making something for herself like she had planned before. Her mood thoroughly soured by Emet-Selch’s departure; she had no intention of staying in the Crystarium any longer than necessary.
Notes:
Of course I couldn't let her have a good day now hm :) See you next time! I am trying to have more of a backlog so the next chapter shouldn't take as long
Chapter 10: Gates of Splendor
Notes:
I was planning to upload this before last weekend but I got a bit too busy with planning my birthday and was a bit hungover on my actual birthday haha.. sorry about that. So I decided to make it a bit beefier instead of splitting it. Thank you for reading!
Chapter Text
The flight to Kholusia was far more pleasant than to Amh Araeng due to the lack of sand in her eyes and clothes, but she still felt a tinge of relief when she hopped off the amaro’s back and stretched. Szem Djenmai kindly offered to stay behind to wait for her return.
After a few inquiries and chores, she settled down with a mug of ale in the Leaky Keel, a tavern in a fisher’s village not far from Eulmore, waiting for Alphinaud to join her. The barkeep Theva, and another trusted local named Eybor had already given her some concerning clues about the city. Apparently, the people within the city walls lived in splendor and were richer than the entirety of Norvrandt, but the same could not be said for those living outside the walls. Some place called Gatetown?
Just when she was pondering what that could refer to, Alphinaud walked in and greeted Theva warmly before turning his attention to Saphyra. “It seems like an age since last we spoke. Not since the prisoner exchange in Doma. And Yotsuyu… It has been even longer for me, of course, if you count the days I have spent here. But the time has only added to the relief I feel, seeing you safe and well.” He smiled as he approached her and sat down on the chair next to her.
“How do you think I feel? Last time I saw you, Gaius van Baelsar carried your unconscious body to us in the Burn. I thought we lost you, Alphinaud, but I am very happy to see you are doing so well.” Saphyra smiled back at him and ruffled his hair with her free hand. She had missed teasing him, but she also had really grown to deeply care for him.
“Hah! Alisaie said much the same thing. I don’t think I’ve ever had such a scolding. But I believe an exchange of news is in order. Come – tell me about your arrival and all that came before!” He grinned.
“Let me see, before I left the Source the war with the Empire was at a stalemate. When you were all called here by the Exarch…” Saphyra gritted her teeth as she said this, “I was called once more while I was fighting Elidibus in the body of Zenos nearly losing my life. He then bid me to seek out a beacon near the base of the Crystal Tower which would lead me to him. I prayed it would lead me to the same place as where all of you were taken, so it seemed worthwhile to pursue, if only to beat some sense into this enigmatic summoner.” She concluded.
Alphinaud looked a bit perturbed at her harsh words but decided to ignore her personal sentiments for now and focus on the more crucial information she had provided. “I see. Both the Exarch and Alisaie told me what they knew of events, but I had stubbornly clung on to the hope that an all-out war might be yet avoidable… But before we bid this world farewell, we must first ensure that it is not rejoined to the Source. We must prevent the Eighth Umbral Calamity.” His face turned very determined and serious suddenly.
“Urianger’s vision of the future has, I fear, every chance of coming true. By his description, the catalyst for the Calamity was a formless and deadly weapon employed by the Garlean Empire. Which can only mean one thing: Black Rose. I’ve seen it with my own eyes, Saphyra. Gaius was telling you the truth. We saw evidence that the gas was manufactured once more. He was adamant the project had been scrapped, but so long there are wars to be waged, there will always be those determined to win by any means.” He looked uneasy as he spoke.
Saphyra said nothing, she could only imagine that it would look horrifying to see such a weapon employed. This was probably painful to remember for Alphinaud and she did not want to pressure him to speak more about it. “I suppose it is somewhat of a boon then, our involuntary journey to the First,” he continued with more confidence now. “Together with the Exarch we’ve developed a theory as to how we believe the rejoining will be set in motion. Both the Source and the First must be facing an existential threat, one being sin eaters of course.”
From what Saphyra had seen of sin eaters so far, she could only agree. “I think no one would disagree with you on that,” she laughed.
“They are a menace I would dearly love to remove, and not just to avert a calamity indeed,” Alphinaud laughed with her. “I may be a stranger to this world, but I will not stand idly by and let innocent people be slaughtered. That is what brought me to the gates of Eulmore. Ignoring its pretentions as a kind of capital city to what remains of the world, it is nonetheless a center of power and authority. If any solutions are to be found, I believe our search should begin there.” He explained further.
This was the Alphinaud she recognized, always politicking, it seemed very appropriate for him to put his expertise to use here. Suddenly he posed her a question: “What say you, old friend? Hungry for another adventure?”
“Oh, you want me to be involved in your schemes?” Saphyra asked surprised by the sudden question, she had only come here to see how he was doing and did not really plan for anything beyond that.
“Yes of course, just like old times!”
“I had kind of only planned to seek you out to see how you are doing, but if you need my help… then who am I to refuse.” She replied with a smile. The alternative was returning to the Crystarium, and she really did not feel like doing that now. Maybe this was a good distraction.
“Excellent, if you have no objections, let us make our way directly to the city outskirts!”
They tried to make their way to Eulmore, but not before lending their aid to an elderly woman who was being attacked by a sin eater. Alphinaud tried to gauge her knowledge of the beings and she relayed part of her experience in Amh Araeng, leaving out the gruesome details of Tesleen’s transformation, lest he hurry back to check on Alisaie. She knew Alisaie would hate that.
Alphinaud in return shared what he had learned of sin eaters himself and the place they were headed to, the dwelling in front of Eulmore named Gatetown, where people congregated in the hopes of being chosen to enter the city. Before long they were already accosted by a man who tried to figure out if Saphyra would be competition or not, before they were interrupted by two jongleurs?
They gave Saphyra the creeps as they made their selection from the crowd for a master culinarian who would serve the rich and wealthy in the city, which Alphinaud explained to her was the only way the wayward souls here in Gatetown would ever see the inner walls of Eulmore.
As a gift to the others that were not chosen, the jongleurs handed out ‘meol’, some round bread looking foodstuff which apparently its citizens also consumed. The crowd cheered and rushed to the sacks to grab whatever they could hold. Alphinaud explained further that many of them relied on these handouts for survival. The look in his eyes told her enough, it made him uneasy, and she could only agree.
Alphinaud revealed his true thoughts on the matter and that he had been working on a plan for a while to get into the city to see how the situation was there firsthand. He was happy she showed up as it should come to fruition soon. He looked proud and she could only smile at him as he explained a business venture Tataru could have only approved of.
When they met up with the supplier in a town called Wright, however, someone got there first and got away with their goods. They located him quickly and the thief was a sad blue haired Miqo’te, or Mystel she tried to mentally correct herself, named Kai-Shirr who was desperate to follow his friends into Eulmore. Alphinaud felt pity for him, so he shared his idea with the young Mystel and let him use his plan instead.
“I do not regret my decision... yet I will admit that a part of me wonders if it was for the best,” Alphinaud pondered out loud. “We strive to bring swift salvation to this world, that countless lives might be saved ─ not least your own. Even if it came at the cost of one man, should I have forged on regardless...?”
“The moment he shared his story I knew you would share your plan with him. It is not who you are Alphinaud, but that does not make you soft. It makes you kind. He will remember what you did for him.” Saphyra smiled at him, trying to reassure him that he made the right decision. She understood it was important to enter the city, but she knew that taking this opportunity from the boy would have harmed Alphinaud more than pressing onward with the plan.
“I suppose that’s true… Were Estinien here, he would most likely scoff at my soft-heartedness. “Same old Alphinaud. Ever the slave to sentiment.” Thank you for your kind words. Let us see to it that both these stories have a happy ending.”
They decided to head back to Wright to figure out another plan of action. As misfortune would have it, they found another soul in need of help on the beach and rushed to their aid. A man on the brink of death begged for his life upon seeing them but they managed to calm him down and see to his wounds while getting a fire started.
He explained he was a painter named Tristol, who got expelled from the city upon delivering an artwork not to the tastes of this patrons. Expelled was a kind way to put it, as he was flung over the balcony of the city, straight into the ocean. It was a miracle he had survived the plunge.
Apparently being patronless and penniless in the city of final pleasures of Lord Vauthry, the leader of Eulmore, was a grave sin and its citizens obey his words without question. Saphyra found this way of life quite repulsive, lazing the days away in face of peril is one thing as not everyone can be brave to stand up against the dangers of this world, but abusing others for your own amusement nay to uphold your way of life? That was unacceptable.
Tristol offered his well-used paintbrush as a thank you for saving his life, not feeling the desire anymore to paint after his horrible endeavor to find a better life in Eulmore. Saphyra agreed to take the role of painter’s assistant in the hope that the jongleurs would allow her in as well.
They did not have to wait long for the next selection process, as upon their arrival back at Gatetown they reappeared within a bell. Alphinaud offered his services immediately and Tristol’s well used brush was deemed as sufficient evidence of his skill. Saphyra however was brandished a parasite, which annoyed her somewhat, but since she was allowed to tag along, she did not care too much. It was all a scheme anyway.
She had seen Alphinaud’s drawing skills back in Kugane when they were searching for Yugiri and Gosetsu and she knew he was a skilled artist, therefore their scheme should not fail based on his performance.
They were led to the entrance of the city, where the jongleurs welcomed them with some jeering words about the other unfortunate people who had not managed to gain entry to the city proper yet and instructed them to present themselves to the Bureau of Immigration, which they promptly did. She learned of the class system, the ‘free’ citizens who are blessed with the favor of Lord Vauthry, and the ‘bonded’ who work for the former.
Their employers were a Mystel couple called Chai-Nuzz and Dulia-Chai, presumably gentle souls generally referred to as the Chais. Considering what they did to their previous painter Saphyra highly doubted that this statement was true.
After their paperwork was approved and scrutinized, they were forced to shower and douse themselves in a sickly-sweet perfume. Saphyra quite appreciated the nice showers, despite the gaudy décor everywhere within the city. The pinks and golds were loud and extravagant, but certainly not tasteful in her opinion. After cleaning herself up and applying the perfume, she met with Alphinaud again outside, who seemed in the same state as before she left.
“Oh, you’ve showered and dressed already have you…? Is it not- Th-that is to say… Ahem. It seems rather exposed for one’s absolutions, does it not?” He said shyly.
“I do not know when you have last seen an elaborate shower like this, but they are quite alright. The perfume is rather intense however.” She knew he just needed a little nudge; the public showers were not something he was used to.
“Very well… Just a quick rinse then. Courage, Alphinaud!” He said as he rushed into the shower room as Saphyra waved after him.
A clean and sweet smelling Alphinaud emerged not long after and they made their way to the highest layer of Eulmore after receiving instructions where to meet their patrons. The upper layer, also known as the Canopy, felt even more like the described decadence by outsiders was no understatement. Gold detailing, loud clashing blues and reds, flowers everywhere, it was incredibly over the top in Saphyra’s opinion.
They soon spied a Mystel couple near the designated location, a man with purple hair and a matching purple refined top, and presumably his wife, who was adorned with many jewels, also wearing a purple gown and red haired. She seemed more well endowed than most Mystel ladies she had seen before in these lands, but she clearly frowned less than her husband which she hoped would be advantageous for them.
Alphinaud immediately charmed their new employers with his looks at least, as Lady Dulia-Chai seemed immediately enamored with him squealing with delight as he introduced himself as their new painter. Her husband however, seemed more apprehensive but his wife’s opinion appeared to be more important to him than anything else. Saphyra made a mental note of this.
“Wonderful, wonderful! Welcome to Eulmore… um, er… what is your name, precious boy?” Lady Chai asked.
“Alphinaud, if it please you, my lady. And this… is my assistant, Saphyra.” He replied gracefully with a small bow.
Lord Chai seemed a bit taken aback by his statement. “Assistant? I’ve heard of folk bringing in family members, but this seems a bit irregular. Aren’t you a little young to have a protégé? Especially since she looks a lot older than you?”
“We are family in all but name my lord. Though we share no blood, we have stood by each other through life’s many challenges, resolved to prevail together - or not at all. Once the picture is begun, of course, I shall have no need of constant encouragement. Out of gratitude for her priceless contribution to my art, I want to make a humble request on her behalf. Rather than her being in your way, might it be permissible for my assistant to explore the city she has so longed to see?” Alphinaud asked, smiling most earnestly at Lady Chai.
Saphyra was impressed with his phrasing; it was an excellently crafted request. He threw in enough flattery to not make it suspicious, and he did not downplay their bond. If they would ask for any stories, they could both tell numerous stories without mixing up the details and they have would no reason to doubt their veracity.
“Oooh, did you ever hear of such devotion! Of course, your assistant must have her wish! She shall be free to roam to her heart’s content! …Isn’t that right, darling?” Dulia-Chai cooed. Saphyra was pleased with how easily the Mystel lady was convinced of their schemes. If anything, she seemed pleasant enough if they stayed on her good side.
“Uh… Oh, yes. Yes, of course, dearest. Q-quite right.” Chai-Nuzz blurted out in agreement.
Saphyra found him quite spineless. Therefore, if Alphinaud managed to stay on Lady Chai’s good side and indulged her every whim, he should be safe enough in her absence. She understood his request of course, roaming free in the city would allow her to investigate its inner workings easier than being forced to stay with the Chais. A clever move and she was happy to play along.
After a hushed exchange with Alphinaud about their little scheme, she went on her way.
Following a timely rescue of a devoted attendant who nearly fell to his death trying to rescue his mistresses’ handkerchief and an interaction with the mistress herself, Saphyra found herself making her way to the Beehive upon the suggestion of the former.
She had been particularly confused by the dedication of the man who had treated his mistress with such ardent devotion, he did not care for his own life at all if it would even slightly inconvenience her. However, she seemed rather fond of the man as well, going as far as calling him family. Saphyra wondered how fickle this bond was, considering how the previous painter of the Chais was casted out of the city into the sea as soon as he did not meet the standards of his patrons anymore. Would the attendant meet the same fate if he would fail to keep her happy?
When she set foot in the Beehive, she was greeted immediately by a young purple haired Mystel in a turquoise elegant outfit. She seemed both shorter and younger than Saphyra, which seemed surprising in the establishment she currently found herself in. The Beehive looked to her at a first glance akin to a crossover between a pleasure house and a gambling den but laced with the same gilded gaudy décor she had seen all over Eulmore so far.
“Welcome to the Beehive, my little drone! My name is Tista-Bie! Seeking the sting of excitement to liven up your day?” The Mystel woman exclaimed in excitement as she led her further into the establishment.
Saphyra was still a bit taken aback by her enthusiasm and was not very good at hiding that she did not frequent places like this.
“…Hm, hm, I can tell at a glance when folk are new to our happy colony. It’s the nervous fluttering you see – always gives them away. Why don’t we play some cards to set you at your ease, eh? If you win, I’ll grant you a single favor… within reason, of course, interested?” Tista-Bie chattered at Saphyra as she led her further to the back to a table with two plush red couches near the bar, hidden from view of the distracting lights of the open dancing area.
“And if I lose?” She asked nervously.
“Oh, then nothing, all in good fun of course!” Tista-Bie reassured her.
That seemed easy enough to Saphyra and she agreed with a nod. Tista-Bie explained the rules to her, and they were straightforward. Within a few rounds, victory was hers by sheer luck. Sometimes she wondered if Hydaelyn intervened in these moments to sway fortune in her favor, not that she could ask her… Hydaelyn had not spoken to her in a long time.
“Well, well, would you look at that. I think you’ve got a knack for this newcomer. Congratulations! Victory is yours… as is the prize I promised. Come, whisper in my ear then, and don’t be shy. Tell ol’ Tista what she can do for you!” She cheered in delight. Despite losing, Tista-Bie seemed in high spirits.
Saphyra stood up from the comfortable couch and moved over to Tista, whispering her request for information about Eulmore in her ear while bending over to reach the small Mystel’s ear.
“Oh, that’s all? How delightfully wholesome of you! But if knowledge is all you want, then that is what you shall have. In my humble estimation, the most wondrous thing about this town is how safe we are from the sin eaters,” Tista-Bie chattered. “They say Lord Vauthry was born with the power to command them – which means no Eulmoran need ever raise a weapon in defense of the city.” Tista-Bie smiled at her.
Born with the power to command sin eaters? That sure is strange… No wonder people flock to safety here if the horrors of the world cannot reach them here. Saphyra made a mental note of this information as this was the most important thing she had learned thus far.
“If your itch still needs scratching, you might get a few words out of Atharn over there,” Tista-Bie pointed out a blonde haired Hyur, or Hume, sitting in the dancing area clad in black. “There’s naught that merry sot likes more than the sound of his own voice.” She giggled.
“Thank you, Tista-Bie. This has been rather entertaining! I think I will go bother Atharn for a moment,” Saphyra said with a smile as she made her leave.
“Any time, my little drone!”
When Saphyra walked over to the man who was pointed out to her as Atharn, she noticed the music was significantly louder here. She had not paid much attention to this part of the Beehive when she entered before, but it was rather indulgent. A chandelier, purple dancing lights, little balconies to the sides overlooking the area, but also fancy plush couches filled with a few patrons immediately screamed for her attention when she scouted for any danger.
The large stage in the back with a walkway leading to the front with a large dancing pole in the center also caught her eye. On both sides of the walkway she spotted two more stages, elevated and reachable by gilded stairs and adorned with a pole at the top. Only one of them was currently in use and a scantily clad Hume woman just finished a provocative dance move which earned her whistling and applause from the onlookers.
She had seen this sort of entertainment before late at night in some taverns before, even as she worked as a barmaid before in the Quicksands, sometimes even providing music if patrons had paid her handsomely. However, somehow knowing how the bonded and the free lived in Eulmore made it more uncomfortable for her to watch. Dancing for money or for survival, is it truly that different?
Saphyra approached the Hyur in the black elegant outfit and he was lounging on one of the plush red couches watching as the woman exited the stage, sipping from a glass. “Hi, Tista-Bie said I should speak with you if I wanted to learn more about Eulmore. I am new here you see… You are Atharn, correct?” She said loudly, trying to make herself heard over the music.
“Whassat? New to Eulmore, you say?” The man said with lightly slurred speech. “Gahaha! Only just arrived and already you’re looking to peel away the layers of mystery. I’m indeed Atharn and I’m all for chatting, but you need to slow down and enjoy life, my friend!” He put his hand on Saphyra’s arm as he tried to emphasize how she should enjoy being here. She tried to resist the urge to pull away immediately from his touch.
“I’ll tell you what, you hop up on that stage and give us a dance first, and then we can have our little talk!” He winked at her suggestively, giving her an appreciating look up and down her body.
Saphyra froze. She needed information and according to Tista-Bie he was supposedly well informed enough and clearly willing to talk. It would not be the first time she had done something questionable for information… it was just a dance.
“S-sure, that could be fun!” She replied, less bold than she hoped.
“If you’re nervous, head over to Anfrigg at the bar, he can give you something to drink for courage. We will be waiting for your show!” Atharn encouraged, anticipation clear in his voice.
Saphyra turned her back to Atharn and mustered up the courage to head back to the bar with her head held high. She tried not to lock eyes with of the other patrons, especially not Tista-Bie, who seemed to be entertaining another guest with a card game now. Not knowing who Anfrigg was, she tried her luck with the blonde-haired Hume behind the bar.
“Are you Anfrigg by any chance? Atharn said you could perhaps help me out…” Saphyra started hesitantly.
The man looked at her kindly and put down his shaker. “First time in the Beehive? I’m indeed Anfrigg.” He gave her a lopsided smile.
“Ah, I guessed correctly then,” Saphyra said with more confidence this time. “I was asked to dance but admittedly I am quite nervous. He said you could help me out somehow. I am not quite sure what he meant by that, but I would not say no to some strong liquor if I may be so forward.” She laughed awkwardly hoping Anfrigg would understand her predicament.
“I can help you out with that. In the Beehive we also have a special concoction so to speak for people who want to relax that I sometimes serve to dancers as well. It doesn’t stay in your system very long, but it should help you feel more comfortable with your current predicament. How does that sound? Or would you prefer regular alcohol?” Anfrigg offered as he studied her face.
“That concoction sounds good; I do not want to stay inebriated for long actually,” Saphyra frowned for a moment remembering she had to return to Alphinaud after this. “I have duties to attend to after this.”
“I usually don’t serve bonded citizens of Eulmore, but since Atharn sent you here I’ll make an exception,” he smirked. Anfrigg grabbed a bottle with a purple liquid from beneath the counter without a label on it and grabbed a very small glass as well. He poured very elegantly in Saphyra’s opinion, understanding he had either worked here for quite a while or not undersold his skills when being chosen to work here, and handed her the half full glass.
“This should be enough for an effect of roughly fifteen minutes. I’ve been told it tastes quite nice so don’t worry about the odd color.”
Before Saphyra lost her nerve, she downed the contents of the small glass, and she could feel the effects immediately. From the top of her head, she could feel some kind of tingling feeling spreading quickly down her entire body until it reached her toes. She shivered for a moment and noticed her clothing felt more comfortable and softer than before. When she slightly moved her leg, and the edge of her dress grazed her thigh it felt very pleasant.
“So, how do you feel?” Anfrigg asked as their eyes met again.
“Fantastic, my clothes feel amazing!” Saphyra said slightly louder than she intended. She blushed and put her hand before her mouth. “Sorry, I did not mean to sound so excited, this stuff is really strange.”
“Don’t worry about it. Just make sure to do what you came to do. I gave you a short working drink on purpose,” he said as his jaw tightened.
“Thank you, I appreciate it,” Saphyra responded as recognition dawned on her face. So, this drink was not just for relaxation. She should have known it was more sinister when Atharn suggested it. Luck was on her side that she would meet someone like Anfrigg to protect people like her then. “I will be off then before time runs out… thanks again. You do more for people than you know.”
“I try.”
Saphyra climbed the stairs to the stage on the right side of the walkway and with every step she could feel the fabric of her dress brush against her skin. She did not know if she liked or hated how it made her feel, but she had a blush by the time she stood on the stage. Her staff, gloves and travel bag were abandoned downstairs for better movement. Despite never having danced like this, she hoped that her time in the Quicksands as a barmaid and pianist would serve her well enough to pull this off.
She put her two hands on the pole far apart from each other and hooked her legs around them to spin around it one time. Her leg strength saved her, but the material of her thigh highs was not suited for anything more advanced. Saphyra could hear whistles and cheers from below over the music and she was reminded that she was being watched. Instead of trying to master the pole again she decided to just use it as a guiding point for her dance.
Saphyra danced for a couple of minutes, entertaining the crowd with improvised moves she remembered from bygone days and plenty of use of her tail and the occasional use of the pole. She decided it was enough after roughly ten minutes and decided to pull out a final move where she untied her ponytail in one swift movement before bending down to caress her leg from the edge of her ankle all the way up to the high slit of her exposed thigh.
As she lifted her head to gauge the audience’s reaction, she noticed a very familiar figure in the distance with his arms crossed, leaning against one of the room dividers right across the stage. Emet-Selch. Her smile faded from her face as she saw the look on his face, his eyebrow raised in judgement of her actions. He seemed displeased or at least from what she could gauge from the distance, he seemed not entertained by her display in the slightest.
His golden eyes bore into hers as she stood there unmoving, ignoring the applause and whistling from below. Saphyra blinked, noticing the potion was nearly wearing off and decided to take a quick final bow and leave the stage, hoping to pursue Emet-Selch. Why was he even here? However, as soon as she got down the stairs of the stage, she saw him walk away and not giving her a single glance.
Saphyra cursed him under her breath. Seven hells Emet-Selch, why bother showing your face if all you do is pissing me off lately? She hoped this information was worth it, otherwise she had embarrassed herself for nothing. Deciding to waste no time at all, she walked over to Atharn to claim her reward with her recovered gear.
Atharn whistled at her in appreciation. “Now that was a show! You’re welcome to clamber up on that stage any time you like! I see that Anfrigg helped you out very nicely, you were not a shy little cat anymore.” He put his hand on her arm again and this started to really piss Saphyra off. Once she got the information she would not hold back if he tried something like this again, no matter if Lord bloody Vauthry would cast them out.
“So… what was it you wanted to ask me?” He asked in a fake sweet voice, caressing her arm.
“Like I said before, I am new to Eulmore, so some more information about the city would be appreciated,” Saphyra said, forcing a fake smile. She tried to subtly move her arm away so he would stop touching her and as luck would have it, reminding him of their arrangement distracted him enough.
“Ah, yes, something about our fair city. Well, I can tell you it wasn’t always so peaceful as it is today. The Eulmoran Army may be the very essence of military might, but even our forces saw grievous losses against the sin eaters. Things changed for us, oh around twenty years ago now,” Atharn began to explain.
“That was when the old ruler’s son came to power! He’s got this way with the eaters, you see – turns them docile as house cats. I wouldn’t be exaggerating to say they’ve become something of an ally to Eulmore. No longer an enemy to be feared. And yet elsewhere, there are still fools who insist on fighting their losing battles… Pah! A toast to Lord Vauthry!” He finished with raising his glass, presumably full of alcohol based on his slightly slurred speech.
“I see, thank you for the information,” Saphyra replied coldly. She no longer felt the need to be cordial with this man whatsoever. He held up his end of the bargain, but she did not like what she had to do for it and found his attitude quite despicable.
“Ah, what is this sudden change in tone my friend? Did we not share good times? I gave you the information you requested,” Atharn said as he tried to reach for her again, but Saphyra quickly stepped aside.
“You gave me the information I requested, but if you ever so much as touch me again I will make sure it will be the last thing you ever touch,” Saphyra hissed at him. “Enjoy your day, Atharn.” She walked away from him not giving him another look, hoping he would let it go as she was not bonded to him. With a firm step in her stride, she made her return to Alphinaud and the Chais, hoping to forget about both Atharn and Emet-Selch, already having developed a hearty disdain for the city of Eulmore.
Chapter 11: Crumbling Facade of Paradise
Notes:
Happy New Year everyone! I wish you all the best for 2025!
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Upon her return to the Chais she was met with surprise, as Alphinaud had not yet started the painting, but was instead used as a dress-up doll by Lady Chai, fitting him in a new outfit and commenting on his looks in an adoring manner befitting a mother playing house. Saphyra barely repressed an amused snort as she observed.
“I know you like finer clothing while painting, Alphinaud, but I see you have yet to start sketching your outline?” She commented on the empty canvas. She thought she had been away long enough and Chai-Nuzz seemed rather impatient judging by the deep frown on his forehead.
“She has the right of it don’t you think, dear? It’s about time we set him to work for the reason we called him here!” Chai-Nuzz urged his wife, clearly relieved someone else seemed to have noticed his predicament.
However, Dulia-Chai started sulking immediately. “…Must we?” She replied in a small voice. “I do love a good painting, but I thought since we were enjoying ourselves so thoroughly…”
Chai-Nuzz immediately changed his demeanor upon seeing his wife’s disappointment. “Well, I’d not – That is to say, as long as you… Ugh. Just make sure you give the lad time to prepare. We know who’ll be upset if he’s not ready to paint at a moment’s notice. Do as you like, my dear.”
Dulia-Chai’s face immediately lightened up when she heard her husband’s approval and suggested picking out jewelry and started thinking out loud what other accessories Alphinaud might need as well.
Alphinaud tugged at her arm and gestured Saphyra to bend over to quickly whisper in her ear. He suggested she would make use of Lady Chai’s obsession over Alphinaud’s aesthetics to further explore Eulmore, most notably its lower layer, the Understory. Considering she had nothing to offer to the artistic process to begin with, she just nodded and went on her way. Neither of the Chais questioned where she went, and she assumed Alphinaud informed them as they did not call after her.
Saphyra decided to head to the lower layer of Eulmore which she had only passed upon entering the city. Its spiral downward staircase and stonemasonry had a distinct different feel to it compared to the rest of the city. The red painted walls were the same, but the gilded decorations were absent and instead upon her descent there were cells and armories around. The Understory was clearly the headquarters of the Eulmoran army and worth investigating.
Finding nothing noteworthy at a first glance, she decided to poke around the cells to see if there might be some prisoners to talk to, only finding all of them empty, except for one that was unlocked.
A young white haired Auri girl with dark horns was sniffling in the corner of one of the cells. She looked nicely dressed in a long pink frilly dress and matching shoes, but from the way Alphinaud was being dressed up a floor above them, Saphyra felt like this could be deceptive.
“Are you alright? What are you doing down here in the cells, do you need help?” Saphyra asked in a soft voice as she approached her slowly, trying not to alert anyone in the area and to not startle the girl.
She turned around and her face was streaked with tears. “You… You’re one of the bonded, aren’t you? Like me?” She looked at her with such a pleading and sad face Saphyra immediately felt bad for her.
“Yes, I am. Do not worry I will not tell anyone where you are.” She tried to put the girl at ease immediately. She had no idea whether the bonded had the same freedom as she currently had, but judging by the attendant she met upstairs they were never far from their masters.
“Please, I need your help! My throat, it’s… I can’t sing anymore… I’ve been making excuses, but it’s just not getting any better. If my patron thinks I’m of no use to him then…” The girl could not even finish her sentence as she started crying again. Saphyra put an arm around her as she tried to comfort the girl and calm her down enough so she could speak again.
“Tell me what I can do for you, and I will do it. I am currently free to explore the city at my leisure, I promise you it is no burden,” she said as she rubbed the girl’s arm still.
Saphyra was once again reminded of Tristol and how he failed to fulfill his duty as a painter. Everyone in this city spoke highly of its leader, Lord Vauthry, but he was the same man who ordered him to be thrown off the balcony of the city to his death. It was a miracle he survived. If this girl could no longer fulfill her duty as a singer for her patron, she wondered if the girl would suffer the same fate. She was much smaller and would not survive a fall like that. Saphyra’s blood started boiling at the idea. The more she learned about this city, the more she despised every aspect of it.
The girl seemed to have calmed down after a while and able to speak. “There’s a man in the Derelicts, right outside of the city, called Thoarich. Please give him this list of symptoms and a hunk of meol to pay for his medicines… he will be able to help,” she said as she handed Saphyra a rolled-up piece of parchment and a paper bag, which she assumed contained the meol.
“I will see to it immediately, please wait for me here.”
“Thank you… I have no one else to turn to.”
Saphyra rushed to the Derelicts and asked around for Thoarich. The living conditions around Eulmore were downright depressing, like the folk living in Gatetown, everyone seemed to get by on the scraps they managed to gather from the city. If anything, she would like to tear this city down as soon as possible.
After gathering some information, she managed to find the man she was looking for: an elderly bearded blonde Hume dressed in simple clothing, but he looked fairly clean compared to the others she had seen thus far.
“My apologies for disturbing you, but I was told you are Thoarich?” Saphyra tried to get his attention as she approached him.
“Hee hee! You need medicines? Tonics? Potions?” He asked in a slightly hoarse voice. She got the impression he was not much of a professional healer, but the girl specifically asked for him, so she did not have much of a choice.
“I was hoping you could help out someone I know,” Saphyra started to explain as she handed over the parchment with the list of symptoms. “The girl is a songstress for someone in the city and quite distressed about her ailment. I also brought some meol as payment, of course.”
“Hmm, a cure for an ailing voice, is it…?” Thoarich said as he pondered over the list of symptoms. “No, no medicine will cure this. Methinks your songbird has a lump in her throat. It must be cut out, excised, and even then, the voice may never heal completely.”
Saphyra had heard about ailments like this before when she worked in the Quicksands. Ruined careers of famous singers who had overexerted their voices, vanished from the stage one day only to turn up at her bar with a ruined voice and a tragic story about a botched surgery. She hoped he would not suggest he would perform it for her…
“Hee hee, poor little songbird. Will they kick her from the nest, I wonder? Or simply silence her chirps?” He cackled as if he was taking pleasure in the girl’s predicament. She frowned at him, not sure how to respond.
“Hoho, your face! You didn’t know!? Of the many hopefuls who enter the city, very few are ever seen to leave. Even as corpses… Oh you might see one or two fortunate fools hurled from the balconies, but the rest…? Gone.” Thoarich explained. “A town of nightmares, it is. Not for this ship’s rat, oh no no. I am content to scurry down here, and nibble on the crumbs which fall from the table. That said, this consultation is over! You have my verdict, and I have my meol! Good day!” He grabbed the bag of meol out of her hands and waved her away.
Many enter and very few leave… she should have seen that coming. As she turned on her heels to make her way back to the girl in the Understory, she pondered what Thoarich told her. The way the Eulmorans treat the bonded as expendable is horrific, but where do they go if they die? He called those tossed from the balconies fortunate, so something more sinister must be at play here. From what she has seen from the city so far it cannot be anything good. The devotion to their leader and the so-called free citizens from the bonded was strange, not to mention the supposed alliance between Lord Vauthry and the sin eaters.
When Saphyra returned to the girl in the Understory, she had a hopeful look in her eyes, which made her feel even worse as she was about to break the bad news to her. “D-did you get my medicine?” She asked immediately.
“I am sorry, but Thoarich thinks you have a lump in your throat. There is no medicine that can cure it, unless you are willing to cut it out. There is no guarantee you will ever be able to sing again,” Saphyra said with a clear hint of sadness in her voice. “I am really sorry…”
The girl started to sob, and Saphyra reached out to her to touch her shoulder. She did not shy away from the contact, so she kept it there, hoping that it would soothe her at least a little. “…So that’s it? What am I to do if I can’t sing…?”
“I don’t know how your pa-“ Saphyra stopped talking as she heard footsteps behind her. A well-dressed older gentleman in a suit with auburn hair, a quite noticeable moustache and sporting sophisticated glasses approached them. Could he be her patron?
Her suspicions were soon confirmed after they exchanged a teary interaction where the man reassured her that he would not cast her out for her affliction, which greatly surprised Saphyra. What made this girl different from the painter casted out from Eulmore? Sufficient services rendered? Age? Affection from her patron? Or just the whim of the master and how they feel towards the bonded?
And then the man said something that prevented her from keeping quiet. “I am sorry, ascension? What does that entail exactly and how has Lord Vauthry created this paradise?” She asked suspiciously.
“Ah you must be new here, allow me to allay your suspicions. As all know, the sin eaters exist to devour the sinful. But also do they serve to gather the souls of the innocent, and shepherd them unto celestial paradise,” the man started to explain. Saphyra raised her eyebrow in disbelief. That sure is one way to look at sin eaters. Devouring the sinful and shepherding the innocent to paradise? What preposterous nonsense do they feed these people in this city?
“It is through Lord Vauthry that we learned this truth. It is through Lord Vauthry's grace that the free people of Eulmore are destined to embrace salvation,” he continued with a passionate voice, clearly believing every single word he spoke. “We are blessed to spend our days surrounded by love and merriment, until at last we are called to our final rapture. Even the bonded may find a place within that host, should their patrons deem them worthy.”
“I see, thank you for your elaborate explanation. It was most illuminating,” she replied with a fake smile, trying to sound not too skeptical to keep up their façade in this city. Something did not add up, Thoarich had said that none left the city. Did this ascension business mean that they were turned into sin eaters? She could not be sure, but it sounded too sinister for her liking. The people of Eulmore just lazed their day away while Lord Vauthry uses the blight of this world to keep them in check. She hated this place, every single aspect of it.
“Now if you will excuse us, we must be on our way. May you find eternal salvation for the compassion you have shown my precious canary.” He lifted his hand in a final greeting and took the girl with him, who also happily waved at her, not knowing what harrowing fate might await her soon. She could only wave back, a knot forming in her stomach.
Upon reuniting with Alphinaud again, he had finally started his sketching. Saphyra always thought he could draw very well but she was a little concerned about his choice of style for this. His realistic approach might not be appreciated by the Chais, despite his obvious skill.
She shared her discoveries from the Understory and her concerns about Lord Vauthry’s control over the sin eaters and what she had been told about ascensions. Alphinaud could only agree with her assessment and felt a similar unease.
“I take my eyes of you for one moment and you’re chattering away with that assistant of yours. I take it you have finally made progress with the outline then?” Chai-Nuzz asked as he approached the canvas to observe Alphinaud’s work. Saphyra held her breath in anticipation. “Wh-What in the blazes...!? It’s so… so… unflattering! Explain yourself, Alphinaud, where is your artistic interpretation?”
“Lord Chai ─ you stated that this portrait was to commemorate your anniversary,” he tried to immediately explain. “Yours being a joyous union, it seemed to me that a realistic portrayal─” Saphyra had to suppress a laugh. She understood Alphinaud’s line of thinking, it was kind and innocent, but he clearly did not understand the people in Eulmore that well. They were vain and liked to boast perfection.
“Realistic!? I don't want realism! I want perfection! A spectacle to slacken jaws and weaken knees! To make people cry out in amazement!” Chai-Nuzz nearly shouted at Alphinaud. “Now, fetch a blank canvas and─”
His tirade was interrupted by a scream and the duo of jongleurs appeared that had granted them entry into the city. Before they could even release a breath of relief that Chai-Nuzz did not want to drag them in front of Lord Vauthry for Alphinaud’s portrayal of the couple, the jongleurs announced that a villain was on the loose in the city. However, the oh so great Lord Vauthry had apprehended him and would deliver justice. All were invited to join the sentencing.
Saphyra and Alphinaud decided this was a good time to get a closer look at the leader of the city as he had been notably absent thus far. They followed the crowd to the Offer, where the sentencing was being held and immediately, they gasped at the situation at hand.
Not only was there enough wealth and food present in this room to feed the entirety of Gatetown for years to come. Lord Vauthry himself was bigger than any person she had ever seen. He was taller and wider than anyone she ever met, and that included Zenos. His pasty blonde ponytail wrapped around his large head and his luxurious clothing barely managed to cover his body. She noted a strange head near his midriff and she unsure whether this was part of his aesthetic choice.
His own looks however were not even that surprising for someone living in a city with such extreme splendor and passivity, it was the fact he was being attended by sin eaters. She shuddered as he pet one of them like a docile house cat. What was he? Certainly, he could not be human?!
“Mercy… Mercy…” A voice wept in front of the crowd. She recognized that voice, it was the same as the young Mystel boy who they had offered their place in Eulmore to. Saphyra and Alphinaud pushed their way through the crowd to see what was happening and saw him lying on the floor with a bleeding arm.
“Kai-Shirr, what happened to you!?” Alphinaud cried out as he immediately ran over to assist him. Saphyra followed swiftly, feeling like this will not end well for them regardless of what was going to happen after they had shown they knew Kai-Shirr. She was absolutely fine with that, she was ready to leave this godsforsaken city and she would rather do it sooner than later, hopefully with the Mystel boy alive and in their care.
“Who are these impudent louts? I do not recall requesting their presence.” Vauthry’s booming voice called all attention to him. Alphinaud tried to ascertain the situation as best as he could without inflaming him, but even he could not resist casting judgement on Eulmore’s treatment of the bonded. He ignored Vauthry’s demand for a painting and started healing Kai-Shirr’s wounds, which only served to enrage him further.
“Who gave you permission to tend to that criminal’s wound!? I told you to paint me a picture!” Vauthry cried out like a spoiled child.
“What you need is a mirror, not a painting. It will capture the horror I see before me far better than I ever could,” Alphinaud retorted coldly, while supporting Kai-Shirr as he turned to walk away. Saphyra had to stifle a laugh; the boy had a way with words she never really managed to recreate herself. This was an excellent time for them to depart and she was ready to take it with their heads held high.
As they rushed out of the Offer Saphyra heard Vauthry yelling after them, raging at the insult Alphinaud had thrown at him. She glanced quickly over her shoulder, and she saw him throwing a fit, slamming his large hands on the floor like a toddler whose toy has been taken away.
She followed Alphinaud all the way outside of the city until the edge of Gatetown where they stopped to strategize. Kai-Shirr unfortunately did not accept their offer to join them at the Crystarium and both her and Alphinaud felt responsible for his fate. They knew Alphinaud’s plan was not great to begin with, and she doubted he would make it on his own for long, but she could not force him to come with them of course. All she could do was wish him the best and ask him to look after himself.
Saphyra felt rather exhausted of their endeavors of the day and was about to suggest they would seek out Szem Djenmai to arrange their return. She wanted to rest before having to deal with another conversation with the Exarch. Despite loathing everything about Eulmore, it had taken her mind of nearly everything that had transpired in the Crystarium before she left.
Just as they were about to leave, she heard the familiar voice of Dulia-Chai calling out to Alphinaud. She and her husband were running to catch up to them and they both decided to wait to hear them out. Apparently, they had not followed them to the Offer to witness the spectacle and were surprised that the entire city was looking for them.
Dulia-Chai confessed she had looked at the canvas her husband criticized and proclaimed her love for it, begging both Alphinaud and Saphyra to stay so he could finish it. However, Alphinaud had made up his mind to leave, and spoke openly that he did not agree with the corruption inside Eulmore. Additionally, he offered to return the clothes Dulia-Chai had given him, but she would not hear it, she insisted he would keep them and visit them as well. Of all the free people in Eulmore Saphyra had met, she found the Chais the most amenable.
After bidding the couple farewell, they finally set out for their return to the Crystarium. When their feet touched solid ground again, she felt anxious, yet relieved to be far gone from that horrible place. She was not much more inclined to aid the Exarch, however, she would be very happy if ending the reign of Vauthry was a high priority. Lord was a title he did not deserve in her mind.
“Thank you, Saphyra… for staying with me through all of this. Whilst not quite the joyous outcome I had hoped for, our efforts have nevertheless answered a great many questions I could not have gained from the outside of the city,” Alphinaud said as he smiled at her. Saphyra gave him a short sideways hug as they walked across the aetheryte plaza of the Crystarium. “Suffice to say, our plans for saving the First are unlikely to involve the aid of Lord Vauthry and his subjects…”
“Of course I stayed with you. I would never leave you alone in a place like that…” Saphyra said gently. “Lord Vauthry, HA, he does not deserve such devotion. I hope we get a chance to rid that place of his stain. I do not believe the people to be inherently bad, just misguided by his deceptions.”
“We shall see my friend, we shall see. Come, we must speak with the Exarch and chart a new course. This is far from over…” He mused.
“Actually, I would prefer to rest first. We had quite a day would you not agree? Besides that, the trip from Kholusia is rather long. I know day and night gets rather confusing here, but I prefer to not pull an all-nighter so to speak. I am sure he can wait…” Saphyra said hesitantly.
“Ah, of course. This can wait, go rest and I will see you tomorrow! I am a bit overeager to discuss a new course due to everything that transpired…” Alphinaud confessed.
They said their goodnights and Saphyra retired and made way to her room in the Pendants, her mood slowly becoming gloomier with every step.
Her room was slightly cold and as messy as she left it, the eggs, milk and torn note from Emet-Selch still in the same spot as she last remembered leaving them. She dropped her travel bag on the floor near the table and grabbed the last bottle that Glynard had given her. A waste perhaps as she had no one to share it with, but she felt like drinking tonight. She poured the wine in the unwashed wine glass that could have been either hers or Emet-Selch’s and took a sip as she sat down with a groan.
The Exarch would inevitably ask for her aid tomorrow and she would have no idea what answer to give him. It was not like she could abandon her friends here. She felt like he was still keeping something from her, and she did not believe the vision was actually real. Perhaps talking with Urianger would clear her doubts, as he claimed to have originally seen it. And then there was the matter of Emet-Selch.
Saphyra did not know how she felt about him. He was interesting for sure, but that was a dangerous line of thinking that she should not entertain. The way he looked at her when he saw her in the Beehive made her audibly groan when she recalled it, and she poured another glass of wine. It had been necessary to get information, but somehow, she felt embarrassed when he had looked at her disapprovingly. She could not really explain why his opinion mattered to her, but she had felt a connection with him, despite him being enigmatic.
Suddenly, at the edge of her mind she felt a presence. She looked around if she could spy anyone, as she had not heard anyone enter her room. “Hello? Is anyone there?” She called out. No response. How odd. She walked around the room and searched the place for any intruders and made sure her door was locked. “Must be imagining things then… weird,” she mumbled to herself.
Saphyra had ruled out Emet-Selch as he had always announced himself, but she thought it could have been the ghost of Ardbert. She had only seen him once and was not as familiar with him. The feeling did not go away, however, so she decided to stop drinking and cork the bottle again. As a means of self-defense, she moved her staff next to her in bed so she could readily defend herself if it was necessary and wore practical clothing. She even decided to keep her hair tied-up in case it would come to a blow. Eventually, she fell asleep, and the world went dark.
That night, she dreamed. It was a lovely warm summer night, and she could feel her bare feet in the grass as she walked over a hill that overlooks the most breathtaking city she had ever seen in her life. A comfortable black robe was draped over her body and softly moved in the gentle breeze. The stars in the night sky are reflected in every window of the high buildings of the city, most of which are adorned by fantastical spire structures. She felt the presence of a mask on her face, but it is comfortable, so she keeps walking, mesmerized by the view of the city.
A tug at her hand pulls her into the presence of someone else, which she was not aware of before. Strong arms embrace her, and she feels comfortable and at ease. “Welcome home, my love. I missed you. How were your travels?” A familiar voice asked her. Before she can answer, the dream faded from her mind, and as she woke up the next morning all she could remember was a starry sky and a good night of sleep.
Notes:
I am planning on rewriting some parts of the previous chapter as I feel like it did not really portray my vision there. I have most of the fic planned out, including the ending, unfortunately my health has been a primary issue in 2024, which was also the reason why I started writing in the first place. If you have been reading this in 2024, thank you so much, I really appreciate it more than I can express. This really has been a project for me just to keep me busy while dealing with health appointments and slowly getting back to working. For my friends who I know that read this, I love you, your support in 2024 has meant the world to me.
Chapter 12: A Fresh Start
Notes:
Thank you for reading! I have the next few chapters ready but I am deciding when to post them
Chapter Text
Saphyra entered the Ocular the next morning with a nervous feeling in her stomach, not wanting to face the Exarch, but knowing it was unavoidable. When she woke up, she had forgotten about feeling watched until she noticed her staff next to her in bed, however the feeling was gone. Alphinaud and Alisaie were chatting to the Exarch about something, but as soon as they heard the clacking of the heels of her boots on the crystalline floor, they fell silent, focusing their gaze on her as she approached.
“Ah, you have returned. I pray my letter was sufficient to aid you to find Alphinaud?” The Exarch asked when Saphyra joined the twins standing across from him.
“It was,” she replied. She was hesitating to apologize for her previous behavior, it had been embarrassing but she did not regret what she had said to him. If she had chosen her words more carefully, perhaps she would not have made such a scene. However, before she could decide on a course of action, the Exarch continued speaking.
“Have you all gained a better understanding of the crisis now faced by the First?”
“Mostly of the suffering of its people and how little some seem to care for the fate of others,” Saphyra murmured. “Which in case of survival is understandable of course…”
“Better is also not a word I would use,” Alisaie added. “There seems no end to the horrors inflicted by the sin eaters.”
“You are right, those abominations are a calamity in their own right. However, after countless battles and untold sacrifice, we have identified a potential weakness,” the Exarch started to explain. Saphyra’s ears perked up at this. She was still reluctant to help the Exarch in any capacity, but she had started to become restless after seeing so much suffering around her and not being able to lend a hand to anyone in need.
And thus, he explained the existence of the most powerful of sin eaters, better known as Lightwardens, which draw other sin eaters to them like an ant queen. The Exarch believed that the death of a Lightwarden would cause the lesser sin eaters in its sphere of influence eaters to disperse.
Alphinaud immediately commented what she had wanted to bring up as well: Vauthry’s command over the sin eaters, ensuring his citizens obedience and therefore he would likely oppose any action taken against the Lightwardens. The Exarch agreed and suggested that the occupation and diversion of his forces was a priority if they were to eliminate the Wardens, which he believed was of the utmost importance if they were to forestall the Eighth Umbral Calamity.
“I am sorry, but you already knew this was the way to deal with it when I got here!? Then why did you withhold this information G’r- I mean,” Saphyra stopped herself before she accidentally revealed his name in a rush of anger. The twins looked at her puzzled. “Apologies, I will get a hold of myself. It is of no benefit to anyone if I lose my cool. Please continue, Exarch.”
“I knew you were reluctant to aid me, considering the way I summoned your friends… It is understandable you do not trust me. But I know your heart is good, Saphyra. Your friends have told me of your deeds, your character, your compassion. It seemed important to me that you gained a deeper understanding of the world before I burdened you further,” he elaborated.
Or to make it impossible for me to refuse, she thought to herself. He crafted the perfect scenario in which it would be unreasonable for her to refuse aid to those who asked. She was not heartless, nor did she not care for the work her friends had done while they had been stuck in the First. “I understand your reasoning, even if I do not agree with your methods. Are you sure eliminating the Wardens will be enough to forestall the Calamity?”
“Your uncertainty is understandable, given the circumstances. Perhaps I should explain in more detail. I shall start at the beginning then…”
The Exarch spoke as he hit the crystalline floor loudly with his staff, the loud clanking sound resounding through the Ocular. The room around them shifted and only the decorated inlay in the floor remained as it looked like they were floating in some kind of strange space surrounded by stars, as if they were surrounded by the night sky.
Above them, thirteen large orbs and one star-shaped object were floating. The Exarch gestured towards them as he spoke: “In the ancient past, a single star was divided into fourteen worlds.” This is the Source – your home,” he said as he pointed to the star-shaped object right above his head. “These others are the thirteen shards, in whose number we find the First, upon which we find ourselves at present.”
The Exarch proceeded to explain the details of how the shards and the Source are connected and how elemental stability as the excess energies trickle into the Source. Through several visual examples he slowly came to the point of how elemental instability on a shard ‘cracks’ the barrier between the worlds and rejoins it with the Source, therefore causing an Umbral Calamity, which is exactly what he aimed to prevent on the First.
Seven times a calamity had taken place, which was underlined by five more of the shard orbs disappearing as they rejoined with the Source above them, each represented by a different Umbral Calamity. While the Source had largely forgotten what happened during the last Umbral Calamity, Saphyra still keenly felt its loss.
She tried not to think too often of what could have been, but travelling across Eorzea to find her father in the Sagolii Desert only to learn he died during the Sixth Umbral Calamity was a bitter pill for her to swallow at the time. Her mother had spoken naught of him until her 21st nameday, where she revealed she had met a Tia on her never-ending travels as a botanist. Their coupling forbidden by the tribe, she left bearing a child in secret, giving her a name that reminded her of the jewels that could be found in the mines near the desert.
Saphyra had been adamant to find him, but when it turned out she was too late, she shed the name of her mother and left for Ul’dah, the nearest city state, to find her own path. At the time, she did not know if she was angrier at her mother for never telling her or at the world for taking the chance away for ever meeting him. Over the years she had occasionally sent missives to her mother, but the gap between them had become too wide to bridge. The last time Saphyra had seen her was before she had left for the Far East, and she had settled in Limsa Lominsa as her age was making travel progressively more difficult with the troubling events around the Eorzean borders.
The Exarch suddenly ended the spell surrounding them with another loud bang on the ground with his staff, dispelling the illusion which snapped Saphyra out of her memory.
“At present, the Light-drowned realm of the First stands perilously close to meeting the conditions for a Rejoining. It is the sin eaters who are to blame for the Light's continued dominance,” the Exarch continued explaining as the Ocular had returned to its normal state. “In addition to attracting their lesser kin, the Lightwardens I mentioned earlier radiate aether, saturating every corner of their territory with Light. Even here in the Flood-spared region of Norvrandt, their influence is strong enough to banish night from the sky. Thus, if we are to restore balance to the First and head off a potential calamity, it is imperative that we put each and every Lightwarden to the sword.”
“So that is why there is no night sky in this world, I see. The sin eaters radiate too much Light-aspected aether,” Saphyra commented. “But if you knew the Lightwardens were the cause of all this, why have you not sought to slay them already? If this was known, why wait? The people of Norvrandt are suffering every day.”
“We’ve been doing our best to take the fight to the enemy ever since we first heard the Exarch’s explanation,” Alisaie interjected. “They are hard to track down and extremely powerful. Truth be told we hoped your martial prowess would help us strike a more substantial blow.”
Alphinaud nodded in agreement. “We have yet to claim any meaningful victories indeed. The Exarch thought it best to wait for your arrival and reinforce our efforts to track down the Lightwardens.”
“While I still have a hard time trusting him, I would not want you both heading into danger on your own. Is there a way for me to contact Urianger, I would really like to confirm whether he really saw –“
The large, gilded doors to the Ocular suddenly opened and she turned around to see Lyna, the captain of the Crystarium guards. “Forgive the interruption, my lord, but Holminster Switch is requesting reinforcements! They say the sin eaters are attacking in force, and the village could soon be overrun,” the Viera woman said in a hurried yet constrained voice, indicating her worry.
“Alert the guard. We should be prepared in case the fighting reaches the Crystarium,” the Exarch spoke in a determined tone Saphyra had not heard from him before. “You have command of our forces in the field, Captain, but hold off on entering the town until I arrive.”
“My lord!” Lyna saluted as she hurried off.
The Exarch turned to Saphyra again before speaking: “I beg of you, Saphyra, please lend us your strength. I know you have your doubts about me, but the people need your aid. I need your aid.”
Saphyra did not know what to say. She did not trust him, but she could not let people die just because she did not trust the man who was asking her to wage her life for them. She had done that numerous times for others without thinking. Considering what she now knew of sin eaters it would be a mercy to relieve them of their lives and slay them, rather than bathing her hands in blood of another soldier on the battlefield.
She looked at the twins for a moment while considering her answer. “Alphinaud, Alisaie, will you take to the field?” She asked, while already knowing the answer in her heart. They nodded firmly, which she had expected. “Very well,” she sighed in resignation. “You know I could never let innocent people die. I will join you for now to aid the people and make sure these two do not get hurt.”
“Thank you, this will mean the difference between life and death. Meet me outside the Crystarium at the crossroads northwest of the Accensor Gate once you have made your preparations and I shall lead you to the village myself.”
When Saphyra arrived at the crossroads, she was surprised to only find the Exarch and approached him with a raised eyebrow and a questioning look in her eyes. “I sent Alphinaud and Alisaie ahead to the village but asked them to wait for our arrival. I hoped to speak with you while we made our way to Holminster Switch,” he explained immediately.
“Lead the way and let us hear what is on your mind,” Saphyra said brusquely, not looking forward to having a one-on-one conversation with him prior to the battle to come.
They walked with a brisk pace as they were still in a rush, it was not a leisurely stroll after all, and Saphyra waited for the Exarch to start speaking. Minutes creeped by as they walked in silence through the violet forests of Lakeland towards the north, accompanied by nothing but the sound of the earth being trampled by their boots.
“I know you do not trust me, Saphyra, but I want to express my gratitude again for coming to our aid. I have summoned you and your comrades against your will, and I cannot undo that deed.” He spoke carefully, as if rehearsed.
“I am not the person you once knew, G’raha. When we ventured into the Crystal Tower, full of spirit and yearning for adventure, that is like another lifetime to me,” Saphyra said. “Perhaps it is the same for you. I do not know how long you have been here, but I do not think we know each other at all. Just fleeting memories of a life where we once met and shared an adventure together.”
“Perhaps you are right,” G’raha responded, a somber tone clear in his voice. “Maybe time has made strangers of us again. I pray our time here in the First allows us to get reacquainted if you would allow me to get to know you again as you are.”
Saphyra hesitated upon hearing the sadness in his voice. He seemed earnest at least, but she did not know if she could bear her thoughts to him. There was so much he did not know, so much he had missed, the things she was ashamed of, afraid of, mourned and cared for, everything had changed.
“I am not the hero you think I am. The girl you met back then is dead and the woman before you is but a shell of what is left. My fire had gone nearly out, but somehow my friends managed to rekindle my flame just enough to keep it burning. However, the brightness has never been the same. If you still think it is a worthy pursuit, then I suppose… we could try.”
“Then I look forward to getting to know you again, Saphyra Netherlight,” he said, and his voice sounded gentle as if he had been offered a great gift that he had to treat with the utmost care. “We are almost at our destination, if you look ahead, you can see the gate in the distance. Holminster Switch lies beyond.”
Chapter 13: The Light
Notes:
I did say I would not take ages to post again so I'm holding myself to that :)
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Upon their arrival at the gate near Holminster Switch, Saphyra saw the others already waiting for them. Lyna looked alert with her weapons drawn and gave a quick wave as a form of greeting, but she seemed more preoccupied with scouting the area with her eyes for any sin eaters that might have strayed from the village. Alphinaud and Alisaie greeted them both warmly as they joined them.
“Holminster Switch is past these gates and through the woods. ‘Tis not exactly a near neighbor to the Crystarium, but as we occupy the same region, we have built up something of a cooperative relationship,” the Exarch explained to Saphyra. “What can we expect beyond the gates, Captain?”
“The town is overrun by a swarm of sin eaters unlike any we have seen in years. We did our best to evacuate the villagers, but as many as half remain…” Lyna’s tone indicated a sense of urgency. Saphyra understood her feelings, they had to try to save as many people as possible while warding off sin eater attacks on their own group, which would prove to be difficult on its own. “Judging by the number of eaters present however, we have good reason to believe that a Lightwarden leads the attack.”
“How convenient,” Alisaie remarked. “It seems we’ll have our chance to slay a Warden sooner than we expected. Defeat the leader, disperse the masses.”
Lyna snorted in response. “One does not simply “slay a Warden”, child. Has no one told you what happens when you defeat one of those fiends? They hold more Light inside them than all their underlings put together.”
“Ah, you can leave that particular quandary to us,” the Exarch interjected quickly before Lyna could continue. “I must ask that the guard stand down and allow us to engage this leader of eaters alone. Concentrate on the survivors – we must save every life we can.”
“But what if -!?” Lyna sputtered before relenting as she saw the Exarch’s posture become stern when he crossed his arms in front of her. “… Understood my lord.” Saphyra had noticed the power dynamic between them and wondered if they were very close. Lyna seemed to be able to read him quite well without being able to see his face, something she was not able to do.
The Exarch proclaimed that the Warden-slaying party would consist of himself, Captain Lyna, the twins and of course, Saphyra herself. She tried to mentally prepare herself before Lyna gave the signal to a nearby soldier to throw wide the gates and they charged into the forest.
The forest was overrun with sin eaters, not only those barring their path, but also newly born eaters from cocoons as they ran deeper into the woods. Saphyra’s stomach churned as she heard the change take place in front of her, waiting to slay the beasts that would want to feast upon their aether, who were innocent beings just moments before.
Upon reaching a clearing, Alisaie shrieked when she saw the large sin eater in front of them. “Oh gods, that sin eater… It can’t be… This is the monster we saw in Amh Araeng!” Saphyra recognized it as well. It was the same sin eater that had killed Tesleen. They had to be careful, for this eater was more powerful than those they had faced before.
The fight was tough but nothing they could not handle. The sin eater was no match for the coordinated attacks of five people and Saphyra did not even break a sweat dodging the sword while casting spells simultaneously. With a final blast of her flare and depleting the last of her mana, the sin eater finally collapsed, and they watched as the aether started dissipating around the body. The Light that was contained in the sin eater was a slightly blinding as it broke free, but soon enough, it was no more and the path before them was free.
“Is everyone alright?” Alphinaud inquired, while breathing slightly heavily from exertion.
“We’re fine! Let’s keep moving…” Alisaie immediately responded. She seemed anxious to Saphyra, but at least she was safe and unharmed. A relief.
When they ran beyond the clearing a small group of people came their way fleeing from sin eaters.
“Look, there are still survivors!” Alphinaud shouted. “We must hurry!”
They ran faster to intercept the sin eaters that were chasing the group of villagers and managed to defeat them with relative ease. When they took a moment to catch their breath, they saw the bodies of villagers who unfortunately did not make it out in time. Saphyra’s stomach churned, if only they had been faster…
“Have the gods no mercy…?” Alisaie whispered.
“We must hurry, maybe there are more people out there we can save. Perhaps we are not too late.” Saphyra urged.
The group ran on and slayed every eater they reached what seemed to be the edge of the village. In the distance they could see the houses burning, it was unlikely that there would still be people inside. Before them, another familiar sin eater barred their path once again. Saphyra quickly looked at Alisaie and she was as pale as a ghost.
“…So, this is where you went.” Alisaie whispered to herself.
“It would be a kindness to her memory if we do this. I’m with you, okay?” Saphyra said as she put a hand on Alisaie’s shoulder.
“Okay. Let’s do it,” she said with a firm nod.
They charged at Tesleen, who compared to the last sin eater, behaved more erratic and seemed to made sounds that made Saphyra think like she was trying to vocalize Alisaie’s name. Her heart hurt as they traded blows, but she felt like it was important for Alisaie to strike her down. She needed that closure, no matter how much it hurt. She had cared for the others at the Inn, it should be someone she knew.
“Fall back!” Saphyra shouted. “Alisaie, now!” They traded a quick glance and Alisaie seemed to understand her immediately. She cut into Tesleen with a quick flurry of slashes with her sword and Tesleen dropped to the ground. Her body immediately started to burst open, and the Light started dissipating.
Saphyra moved to Alisaie immediately. “Are you alright?” She inquired, worry laced in her tone.
“I’m fine. Thank you for doing, you know, what you did.”
“It seemed like the right thing to do, considering what you went through together,” Saphyra replied with a forced smile. “Do you want to press on? It is alright to stay for a moment, we can go on.”
“No, no. I will come with you. I will return on my own later, when it’s safe…”
Saphyra nodded and signaled to the rest that they would press on immediately. The inner village lay beyond the bridge. As soon as they crossed the bridge and the burning buildings, they saw more fleeing villagers, which they did not expect.
“This way!” Saphyra yelled, hoping they heard her. A large sin eater ran up behind the villagers, as they were still running in the direction of the villagers and mauled them with one arm, transforming them into sin eaters right in front of their eyes. Saphyra’s stomach lurched as she tried to suppress a scream. They were not fast enough; they could not save them. So many sin eaters, so many dead people. She felt the bile rising in her throat as they ran towards the group of freshly transformed sin eaters they had to slay.
They had to step over corpses of dead villagers to get to cocoons of sin eaters that immediately hatched when they came near as they tried to cleanse the square of the remaining eaters. “How much more of them are there!?” Saphyra panted.
“We are close to the Lightwarden… Be on your guard!” the Exarch said when they finally cleared the square and pressed on.
“My lord, are you sure about this?” Lyna asked nervously.
“We have been waiting for this chance for a long time, trust in me, Captain, but we have to hurry lest more people get hurt.” He quickly reassured her.
As they ran down another path, they passed more villagers, but this time no other sin eaters were chasing them. Saphyra breathed in relief, but a pit of anxiety remained in her stomach as they kept running up the road ahead. In front of a large burning building, a gargantuan sin eater barred their way once more. Its mouth had long spiky teeth, and its arms and legs were adorned with large and long chains.
“…We stand in the presence of a Lightwarden. Tread carefully.” The Exarch said before they charged.
The Lightwarden roar was deafening as it attacked, and the battle was grueling. Not only did they have to deal with its agile arms, legs and tail, but it also made use of its chains to capture Alphinaud.
“Hurry, get him out! The Lightwarden seems to be readying another attack!” Saphyra yelled as she fired a blast at the chains keeping Alphinaud in place before the monstrous arms of the Lightwarden. He managed to run away just in time before it breathed what seemed to be pure Light in front of it. “Thank you,” he panted.
After what felt like an hour, they finally managed to deal the killing blow. Saphyra was so tired; she did not even notice who struck the creature down at long last and she frankly could not care less. In her earlier adventuring days, claiming victory over monsters like this would fill her with adrenaline, but all she could feel now was a rush of relief that everyone seemed to be unharmed.
With a loud thump the creature hit the ground, its long purple tongue rolled from its mouth. Even in death it looked dangerous and grotesque.
Within seconds it started glowing, the Light seeping out of its body. “It’s releasing its aether. Fall back!” Lyna shouted. “We cannot let it touch us. Quickly, my lord, we must withdraw at once!”
“That will not be necessary, Captain,” the Exarch said calmly. “…Though I appreciate your concern. The eternal Light of these creatures has confounded us for nigh on a hundred years. For each we have put down, another has risen up in its place, born of the selfsame aether relinquished by its predecessor. But now we have a way to contain that corruption.”
“And what exactly is that way?” Saphyra asked suspiciously. “You have said nothing about this beforehand.”
“The blessing of Light!” The Exarch says as he pushes Saphyra towards the Lightwarden. “And the hero who wields it now stands before you!”
“Wait, what!?” Saphyra yelped as the Light from the Lightwarden before her dissipated and formed a large orb of Light that moved towards her. The Light entered her body slowly at first, but then suddenly, all at once, and then the Lightwarden before her and the orb of Light was gone.
Saphyra was overwhelmed with the intensity of the Light in her body and tried channeling the excess aether, hoping she could get rid of it. She aimed towards the sky, but instead of releasing the aether it seemed to cling onto her even more. When she looked up, the blinding Light that plagued the region of Lakeland seemed to be split by her, as if she was wielding a giant staff of Light that cut through the layer of Light covering the sky. For the first time in a long time, she beheld the night sky. But instead of joy, she felt anger. Why had he not told her?
“Behold! The monster’s power is broken! And the world twisted by its touch returns to its rightful form!” The Exarch exclaimed joyfully.
Absorbing the Light of the Lightwardens was not previously revealed to Saphyra to be a prerequisite. She was just his aether sponge. That was why they waited.
She walked up to the Exarch with seething rage in her eyes, her mouth downturned. “Another secret kept, Exarch, you’re lucky I keep yours,” she hissed as she attempted to storm away immediately afterwards.
“Wait!” He called after her and grabbed her arm forcefully to try to get her to stay.
“Don’t test me, I will rip your crystalline arm off right here, I don’t care for your games right now.” She roared angrily. “I gave you a chance to mention this and you didn’t. We spoke at length twice. You know that’s all I cared about. I would’ve aided the people regardless. I thought we made a fresh start.”
“We did,” the Exarch said, his voice steeped in regret, but he let go of her arm.
“Enjoy your night sky and don’t you dare follow me.” Saphyra walked away and shot an apologetic look to the twins before teleporting away to the Crystarium.
Notes:
Finally, a lightwarden down! A bit wild this took 40k words but I always knew this was going to be a long work oops. See you next time!
Chapter 14: The Dark
Notes:
Sorry for the slight delay! NSFW art can be found at the bottom of the chapter, art by the lovely Cascanor again <3 socials linked as always. Gesturing to tags and rating for this one :)
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
When she unlocked the door, Saphyra dropped her travel bag and staff next to the door immediately with a loud clunk before slamming the door behind her and locking it again as she sighed loudly. Suddenly, she heard footsteps behind her, and realized she was not alone at all. She saw a smirking Emet-Selch standing across from her with his arms open-wide, welcoming the hero of the hour to her own room which he had nicely redecorated in her absence.
Saphyra scanned the room and noticed some new lanterns were not lit, but instead multitudes of burning candles that were basking the room in a warm glow. He had changed the color of the curtains near the open window and all the fabrics in the room to match the dress she had started to favor. A deep red, which created a sultry atmosphere. She spotted a new bottle of wine and glasses. He had even cleaned up the mess she had left behind when she had left for Eulmore. As a finishing touch, Saphyra noticed a somewhat sweet scent coming from nine red tulips in a small vase on the table next to the wine.
However, she really wanted no company tonight. Emet-Selch stood there observing her as she had clearly ignored his theatrical welcome as she took in his work. He had probably expected a reaction from her, but she would not give him the satisfaction today. She was tired of him, of the Exarch, of the exhaustion in her body…
Saphyra walked over to the table to reach for the wine bottle to uncork it, hoping that ignoring him would just bore him enough to leave her alone. He interrupted her with a swift movement, grabbed the bottle from her hand while he let out a sigh and returned it to its original place.
“Really? Planning on another night of drowning your sorrows by yourself? How unbecoming of the hero of the First.” He clicked his tongue in disappointment as he frowned at her reaction.
“What the FUCK are you doing here, Emet-Selch!?” Saphyra shouted at him, her ears flattening against her head. “Get out, I can’t deal with you as well today. You can’t just leave and then show up again whenever you feel like it.” She crossed her arms, glaring at him angrily waiting until he left.
“Come now, I’m here to celebrate your triumph, of course. I even decorated for the return of the night,” he said with a pressed smile as he walked up to her. He gripped her chin to force her to look up at him. “Are you sure you’re upset with me? You seemed quite agitated when you walked into the room.”
She jerked her head away from his grip and took a step back. “Since you’ve cleaned up this place, I’m sure you saw that I tore that note you left me. Wasn’t my message clear enough to you? I don’t want to see you.”
“Did my departure offend you? I had places to be.” The nonchalance in his voice annoyed her even more. Clearly, she had overestimated what that night had meant. His sudden gentleness had surprised her, he had treated her with kindness and dignity, knowing exactly what she needed to feel like a person again. It had hurt her when he had suddenly left.
“Yes, it did. There is no reason why I should entertain the enemy in my room when he clearly has no right to nor deserves to be here,” Saphyra sighed in exasperation. “I don’t feel like having a second fight today, Emet.”
“Then don’t fight me, hero,” he shrugged. “I merely wanted to provide a suitable distraction for the night, as you have pursued your fights blindly since we chanced to meet.”
“Are you just trying to get a rise out of me for fun?” She bristled at his words. He was not wrong; she had pursued him initially just to distract herself. Without caring for his identity, which was questionable to begin with as he posed as a Garlean before she truly knew who he was, she had spent plenty of time with him. “Considering who you are, however, I highly doubt our chance meeting was coincidental.”
“I’m just making an observation, my dear,” he cocked a smile at her. “But yes, very observant of you, my plans are never executed on such a slim probability.”
It confirmed for her what she had suspected him of for some time, it had all been too convenient. What were the odds of meeting an Ascian on her first night a world away? Slim to none, unless they knew who she was or where to look for her. She hated that she still found him attractive despite feeling incredibly foolish at the moment. She had fallen for his scheme with her eyes open wide and in truth, it did not bother her as much as it should. It is not like he lied to her, she just never asked, refused to see what was right in front of her all this time.
“How about we open that bottle of wine, and you air your grievances? My planned distraction can wait.” Emet-Selch gestured to the seats, suggesting she should sit down.
It was a reasonable ask; she had to admit that. Saphyra could still make him leave whenever she felt like it and perhaps airing her grievances would make her feel better about at least one thing in her life right now. She sat down as he poured two glasses of red wine, and as she took a sip her eyes widened in surprise, tasting the familiar notes of plum, vanilla, spices and chocolate.
“This is Glynard’s special wine, I thought he had run out of these?” She uttered in disbelief.
“I have my ways. Now, what’s on your mind?” His golden eyes stared at her, waiting patiently for her to start talking.
She exhaled deeply. “Everything is such a mess. I’m tired, Emet, people keep important things from me, and I feel like I can’t trust anyone. I’m angry all the time. You and I are not on the same side. I don’t know why I should trust you either.” The words started pouring from her mouth like a river.
“I just don’t understand you at all,” Saphyra sighed in exasperation. “First, you’re all nice and you take care of me out of nowhere, then you suddenly leave when I want to do something for you.” She took a moment to breathe to calm herself.
It felt better now that she had said it, and she took another sip of her wine, she did really like this one. He really had gone the extra mile tonight to provide a distraction suited to her personal taste, she thought as she glanced around the room. Only the flowers made no sense to her, she had never mentioned liking tulips or any flowers specifically.
“You have your duty, and I have mine, only time will tell if we truly are in opposition or not,” he mused, his face looking serious. “But in contrast to those you align yourself with, I have never lied to you. You simply did not ask.”
Saphyra knew he was right, even when she accused him of orchestrating their meeting, he openly confirmed her suspicions. The blame for this did not lie with him, but with her, there was no reason to reproach him for her ignorance.
“You’re right, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t be upset with you for things I refused to acknowledge myself. You have always been receptive to my questions, even if they were accusatory,” she relented and downed the rest of her glass of wine. Emet-Selch wordlessly offered her a refill by holding up the bottle and she nodded. They sat in silence as she took another sip of her wine. It was not an uncomfortable silence, he was clearly giving her time to think and waited for her to continue.
“That night was a very vulnerable moment for me. You approached me when I couldn’t defend myself. You didn’t take advantage of that. Instead it felt - intimate,” she paused for a moment. Should she share this much with him? His eyes were glued to her as if she was the only being that mattered in that moment. They had already crossed the line so many times, but emotionally they had been shut off entirely. It frightened her, but perhaps it was the only way forward out of this mess, to make sense of it all.
“Only my friends have seen me in that state when I was at my lowest, it caught me off guard. You knew exactly what to do, exactly what to say to make me feel safe and like myself again. So, when you left abruptly, I was hurt and confused. Like it never happened at all.” Saphyra averted her eyes nervously, drinking more of her wine. She was not used to being so forward about what she felt.
“There was no need to coddle me, my dear. I’m perfectly capable of taking care of myself. There was also no need to thank me,” Emet-Selch replied in a gentler voice than she anticipated. “You insisted that I stayed to rest, but I have lived for thousands of years, a night without sleep won’t affect me like your kind.”
He reached out to her face and when he touched her, she did not recoil but allowed him to trace along the line of the scar on her cheek. A slight shiver rose up her body and she felt the hairs rise at the back of her neck. The contact did not last long, and he retracted his hand, placing it in his lap. She met his eyes, and he looked genuine, she really wanted to believe him.
“Just don’t leave a note if you’re going to vanish next time. I’d prefer you’d tell me in person.” She finished her glass of wine and put it on the table signaling she was done drinking for the night. Her anger had vanished, but she still had more questions, and she did not want a hangover tomorrow.
“Next time?” Emet-Selch smirked. “Am I already forgiven?”
“I still have a few more questions, but I’m not as upset with you anymore, so you’re allowed to stay for now.” A faint smile played on her lips, which gave Emet-Selch a playful glint in his eyes as he noticed this.
“A small victory then. I will make sure the next time I have to tend to my duties I will inform you in person if we are spending time together. If such a small concession will keep me in your good graces, I will make sure to do so.” He raised his glass to her as he finished it as well.
Suddenly her mind connected the dots between several things he had said and the timing of his appearance in her room. How had he known she had drowned her sorrows last night? There was nobody there, except for… except for that nagging feeling she was being watched. She had also not been away from her room for that long today, but she did remember him performing some type of magic that was more advanced than just aether manipulation.
“How long exactly have you been watching me? Were you here last night? Did you watch me… kill the Lightwarden and what happened afterwards? The argument I had before I came here?”
“What if I did?” His usual non-committal answers gave her more than enough information she needed. So, he had watched her continuously.
“These changes to my room, while welcomed, are rather elaborate. How else would you know what transpired and if I would even be here?” She retorted.
“I’m glad you appreciate my work. But yes, I did watch you take on the Warden and only caught a part of your argument afterwards. I had work to do, you see. I do remember it being more one-sided however.” He breathed a laugh.
“Why?”
“I was just keeping an eye on you; I enjoy watching your endeavors. Of course, it is important for me to know what you are planning to do next,” Emet-Selch said more seriously this time around.
“So, Eulmore was just another one of your acts of voyeurism?” She gritted her teeth at the memory of everything she learned there, but most prominently how she was forced to dance on the stage in the Beehive under the influence of that drink. It was truly a place she hated. He had already said he kept his eyes on her so his answer would not even be surprising, she just wanted to understand what was behind that odd look he gave her.
“You wound me, my dear. I just happened to be there and caught wind you were in the city.”
Saphyra rubbed her nape as she averted her eyes again. “It was derogatory, I hated having to do something so unlike me for information. That whole city felt disgusting. It was embarrassing having to do that and even worse that you saw it.”
He put a finger under her chin to guide her eyes back to his face. “Your performance wasn’t unsatisfactory, my dear. Those pathetic creatures should not have been allowed to witness it.”
“A bit possessive are we, now?” Saphyra said as she felt heat creeping on her cheeks.
Emet-Selch pressed a short kiss to her lips, and she could not help but melt at his touch. “Perhaps a little… Do you mind?”
“No,” she breathed. She hungered for more, like a stray cat who had not eaten in days, but she restrained herself for now. “No, I don’t mind.”
“Did you have any more questions?” Emet-Selch inquired as he relaxed again, letting the finger under her chin go.
“I think we’ve addressed my most pressing grievances at the moment,” she confessed. “What was the distraction you planned?”
“It would be a better distraction if you experienced it instead,” he murmured in her ear as he leaned over.
He stood up from his chair and offered his hand to her, which she accepted. Immediately he snaked his hands around her back and pulled her closer. She really enjoyed how his arms felt around her, and the remaining stress she had in her body vanished like snow before the sun. He tightened his grip on her and she felt her body press against his as the warmth of his breath reached her sensitive ears. “I’m sure you can imagine what I had planned for tonight,” he said in a low voice.
“Are you trying to get me to sleep with you?” Saphyra asked, the heat on her cheeks returning before she realized what he was insinuating. “Wait, I don’t only sleep with you as a distraction, where did you get that idea from?”
“Oh, don’t you? Since when? A mere bell ago, you tried to uncork a bottle of wine and kick me out of this very room. As I said earlier tonight, you have chased me relentlessly since your arrival.” He said as his lips softly brushed hers and she felt his hot breath on her face, but he gave her nothing more than that.
“Emet…” Saphyra started as she tried to find the words she wanted to say. What was going on with him today? He was never so forward with her; she had been the one to pursue him at the start and she felt like she had no control now that he turned the tables on her.
“What is it, my dear Saphyra? Is my provided distraction tonight not sufficient? Or have I misunderstood your preferences?” His golden eyes bore into hers and she noticed his playful smile did not reach his eyes.
“I just want people to stop using me as a thing they can call upon whenever they feel like it. But maybe that’s my own fault, it’s not like I ever denied a call for aid,” she whispered against his lips.
“If anything, you’re using me, aren’t you? I’m sure your friends are not aware of our late-night rendezvous.” He nipped gently at her neck, and she gasped at his touch.
“N-no, they’re not. They would probably call me either self-destructive or keep me under constant surveillance. And they would be right to do so.” She threw her head back as she laughed. The aftermath of the war in the Far East, Zenos’s death, Elidibus nearly killing her, had nearly driven her mad.
“Yet here you are in my arms, not resisting at all. There’s no need for you to lie to me, my dear. I never lied to you after all. There is no shame in wanting to spend time with me.” Emet-Selch pulled her tighter against him as he pressed more kisses to her neck and Saphyra could not prevent a soft moan slipping from her mouth.
He moved his hand to touch the base of her tail. Saphyra widened her eyes in surprise, he’d never tried that before. “There’s no need to do that…” she breathed.
“Does it not feel good?” He murmured against her neck while he continued kissing her.
“I don’t feel that much in my tail,” she explained without wanting to say much more. After Elidibus had struck her down the chirurgeons had done their best to restore her tail, but she had still suffered some nerve damage. It had taken her a while to be able to fight properly again without getting off balance.
Emet-Selch stopped and grabbed her face gently with both hands. “I won’t touch it then, if you prefer it. This is for your enjoyment, my dear.”
“It’s fine. Just an old battle wound. Courtesy of your friend, Elidibus,” she grimaced at him.
“I see. Are you sure you want me to stay?” He asked as he let her go and stepped back. Suddenly he looked very tired, something she had always seen, that slumped posture, those dark circles under his eyes, but when he was near her, he seemed somehow less exhausted, if only for a moment. Like he was playing a role, and his mask had now dropped. Emet-Selch’s gaze was unfocused, as if he was looking through her.
Saphyra had multiple chances tonight to send him away, but she felt no anger nor irritation towards him anymore. The ghost of his touches lingered on her skin, and she realized she did not want him to leave at all. Whatever it was what they were doing here, it was no longer a distraction for either of them. She was walking into this with her eyes open, whatever his grander plans may be.
“Yes. I want you to stay. I want you.” She was determined and stepped forward to meet him again. Her gloved fingers traced the fur of his coat while she stared at his golden eyes which looked at her in surprise. He had clearly not expected her to want him to stay.
“You’re entering dangerous territory, my dear, I’m Ascian after all.” His voice had no more hints of playfulness to it, it sounded like a warning instead.
“I know, and I don’t care, I want you. I’m tired of telling myself that this is just a distraction. I have my duty, and you have yours. We will figure it out when it comes to it. I’m yours if you want me, Emet-Selch.” She insisted. She could not resist him anymore. She could fool herself that this was not exactly what she wanted when she first felt his touch, but she would have lied to herself. Would this possibly hurt her in the end? Very likely. But the world was a weary place, and her heart ached for a comfort only he could provide.
“Finally,” he breathed as he crushed his lips to hers.
In contrast to their earlier sexual activities, Emet-Selch was not as gentle. He seemed impatient and greedy for her attention. When he had pressed his lips forcefully to hers, he picked her up and immediately walked over to the bed with ease as if she were as light as a feather. Saphyra returned his affections with fervor and clung onto him as if he could vanish again at any moment. With a snap of his fingers their clothing disappeared, and she heard a loud thud of falling clothing on the marble floor somewhere behind him.
He laid her down on the bed and she noticed immediately how the bed felt much plusher than she remembered. She opened her eyes for a moment and realized that this did not even look like her bed at all. It was larger, far more luxurious and the sheets and drapes were all draped in a deep red due to the candles. Saphyra barely had appreciate the scenery as Emet-Selch descended upon her again.
“What has gotten into you?” Saphyra panted between kisses. Her lips felt swollen and bruised from the force he had been using.
“Can’t I claim what’s mine?” He responded in a low voice before he grabbed her wrists and pinned them above her head. While he held her down with one hand, he used another to undo her braids and ponytail after which he gently stroked her cheek, the look in his eyes hungry.
Saphyra heard him snap his fingers and he momentarily sat up to let go of her wrists before she felt something else restrained her. It was softly pulsating with aether so she could sense it, and when she moved to look at it, glowing deep red restraints held her arms together.
She looked up at Emet-Selch with widened eyes and hot cheeks. “W-what are you going to do to me?”
“Just lie down and relax, my dear. It’s for your pleasure, and mine.”
She relaxed into the plush sheets letting her arms rest above her head. Her heart was beating in anticipation of what was to come. Emet-Selch had always been gentle with her, but never possessive like this. She was intrigued by this sudden side of him and was reminded of his hints earlier tonight.
His hands roamed her body as his mouth wandered from her neck to her breasts, leaving marks behind with every kiss he planted on her skin. Saphyra’s heartbeat and heavy breathing increased with every touch. When he reached her nipple, he bit down, and she let out a moan as she grasped the sheets with her hands. She felt the restraints on her wrists holding her back from moving more as the warm energy pulsated.
Her body was his territory. Every ilm he claimed with his hands or mouth, before finally giving a soft kiss on her folds. The heat between her legs had become unbearable and she craved for him to touch her. “Ah- Please, stop being a tease.”
“You have been splendid so far, but let me hear you more, there’s no need to be so quiet.” Emet-Selch encouraged her before he spread her legs for him. He wasted no time and flattened his tongue against her clit and tasted her. While his tongue pleasured her clit, he quickly added his fingers to pull more moans from her, teasing her at first, then settling on a steady rhythm.
She writhed under his touches, the restraints keeping her in place while he also held her down with his left hand on her abdomen. The cries from her mouth became louder as she begged for him to let her come. “Emet – please, ah-“ She moaned as he kept hitting her sweet spot.
Saphyra clenched her legs around his head as she rode out the waves of her orgasm, unable to hold back her loud moans as she twisted in the sheets. When she came down from her high, she let him go and released heavy breaths, sinking back into the plush bedding. The aether restrains loosened around her wrists and she moved to sit up to stretch her arms.
Emet-Selch was still in his previous position, savoring her taste and eyeing her still with hunger in his beautiful golden eyes. He seemed insatiable, just like her. “Come here,” she whispered to him. He needed not be told twice and moved towards her immediately.
She kissed him deeply, their tongues intertwining and Saphyra could taste herself in his mouth. The urge to taste him too welled up in her and she pushed back against his chest, her lips wandering from his mouth to his neck, chest and stomach. Emet-Selch suddenly held her chin with his free hand and made her look at him. He shook his head. “Not tonight, my dear, I have other plans.”
A pang of disappointment flooded through Saphyra, but she let him guide her tonight. It is what she asked for after all; to be his. She threw her arm back around his neck and greedily kissed him. He responded in turn by grabbing her ass to pull her close again and she felt his cock pressing at her entrance. Their tongues intertwined while Emet-Selch just made teasing movements with his hips as he coated his cock in her juices as he slid it between her folds, never giving her more than that.
High from their kissing, she leaned back to catch her breath for a moment. “I want you, Emet-Selch, please just make me yours already,” she pleaded dramatically, hoping he would finally give in.
“Very well, turn around for me,” he conceded with a small smile as he let his firm grip on her go. A hint of confusion was plain on Saphyra’s face as they detangled their bodies, but she obeyed him. When she turned around on her knees, she suddenly came face to face with her own reflection. Her naked upper body covered in small bruises, draped in the warm glow of the candlelight of the room.
She stared at her own image with burning cheeks. This was the reason he had her to turn around. Emet-Selch had planned this, just like everything else tonight. He wanted her to see what she had agreed to.
His hands enveloped her breasts, and she saw his eyes glow in the mirror, staring back at hers when he leaned his head on her shoulder. “Are you ready, my dear?” Emet-Selch asked as he pressed his entire body against her, making Saphyra feel incredibly small in comparison. Her hand traced his cheek softly and she nodded with a smile. “Yes, yes I am.”
A deep kiss followed, before Emet-Selch let his hands stray to her hips and urged her to place her hands on the pillows. He guided himself to her entrance and slowly entered her. Saphyra gasped as she took him ilm by ilm until he was fully situated to the hilt. Slowly, he started moving, pulling moans from Saphyra with every thrust. She was too embarrassed to look in the mirror but was constantly aware of its presence.
Emet-Selch's breath grew heavier, and he moved his arms to her chest, right under her breasts, to pull her up while increasing the speed at which he was thrusting inside her. He grabbed her chin and forced her to look into the mirror as he pulled moan after moan from her. “You’re mine, don’t shy away now.” He said with ragged breaths into her ear.
His intense gaze in the mirror was unflinching and he did not let his hand stray as he forced her to look at herself being taken by him. Drops of sweat formed on their bodies and slowly trailed down her back and bouncing breasts when she started moving frantically against Emet-Selch’s movements to chase her orgasm. In her lustful haze she could barely see a small smile forming around his lips, the first hint of emotion since he forced her to watch herself. She wondered if their souls could intertwine like their bodies were, perhaps she would finally understand him.
Saphyra felt Emet-Selch’s arm move away from supporting her as he slid his hand between her thighs, while moving at a steady pace. Her hands found balance in front of her in the pillows again, while he made sure she could still see her own face, his grip on her chin never relenting.
The sounds in the room bordered on the obscene, the sopping sound of their coupling mixed with the creaking of the bed and Saphyra’s moans which were only encouraged further by Emet-Selch’s ministrations between her folds. His name started pouring out from her mouth with every thrust as she started to forget where she was. Her soul felt like it was glowing like the sun, searing hot and alive, like it had not in ages. “Emet, I’m so close,” Saphyra moaned, her face was hot and flushed red, just like the drapes that now surrounded the bed.
Suddenly he slowed down while removing his hand from between her thighs and kissed her neck. “Say it,” he demanded in a hoarse voice. Saphyra was confused for a moment, why did he slow down? She already gave him everything he wanted. “What? What do you want me to say?” She gasped as he kept thrusting into her, but not nearly giving her enough to push her over the edge.
“Say you’re mine.”
Saphyra laughed; she could not help it. She had already given herself to him like this, letting him do whatever he pleased. Begged him for it, even. He could have asked her anything in this moment and she would have given it to him willingly.
“I’m yours, Emet-Selch,” she said in a revered tone, a smile playing across her lips. He quickly captured them and let go of her chin. His expression seemed more pleased than before, which gave her an idea as he slid his hands down her hips and started thrusting into her harder.
“I’m yours,” she moaned repeatedly, and she heard his breathing become more ragged as his movements became more frantic. Her body started shaking as she clamped down on him when her orgasm finally overtook her. She saw stars from the intensity of the feeling that washed over her. With a loud groan, Emet-Selch spilled his seed deep inside her and slowly removed himself from her as they both collapsed on the soft bed.
Their breathing was still heavy and bodies thick with sweat, but this did not stop Emet-Selch from immediately cradling Saphyra while his seed was still leaking out of her. “I will make sure you remember,” he murmured as they both fell asleep quickly from exhaustion.
Saphyra and Emet-Selch by Cascanor
Notes:
I am aware that the image sometimes breaks and I try to fix it whenever I notice it. Haven't found a sustainable solution to this yet
Chapter 15: Not Alone
Notes:
A shorter chapter, but one I was looking forward to personally :)
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
The morning sun woke her the next morning and Saphyra realized this was the first time it was actual sunlight that graced her room in the Pendants since arriving in this world. Her body felt very sore from her exertions last night. When she stretched lazily, she realized the bed was empty and her heart dropped. She opened her eyes to search immediately for Emet-Selch.
“Good morning, Saphyra.” She heard coming from next to the bed. As she sat up and the soft blankets fell off her naked body, she saw Emet-Selch sitting at her writing desk, fully clothed and smirking at her.
“You’re still here,” she said in surprise. When she did not find him in bed with her, she had expected him to have left again, despite him promising her he would stay.
“As I said, my dear, there is no need for me to lie to you. If this small gesture gives you comfort, I am more than happy to provide it.” He said with an air of nonchalance as if it was the simplest thing in the world. Saphyra wondered why this had even been an argument between them, perhaps she had overreacted last night.
“Thank you,” she smiled. “My entire body feels sore, are you sure you can’t laze the day away with me?”
“I have places to be, hero, and I’m sure you do too after yesterday.” He suddenly turned serious. “Unless you want to keep hiding away here forever.” She frowned at his response, knowing he was right. At some point she had to face the Exarch again, there was no avoiding that. There was no place for her to go as she had no idea where her other friends were without speaking to the Exarch, and she could not leave Alphinaud and Alisaie here.
With a sigh she slipped out of the sheets and started looking around for her clothes. They were neatly folded on the large table across the room next to several plates of food. Ranging from fruit to fresh bread and cheeses, Emet-Selch had prepared a variety of things for her to eat. “You really didn’t have to-” she started.
“It was no trouble. Although I would recommend a different attire for today if you don’t want your friends to know what you were doing last night. I doubt your dress would cover half the marks I left on your skin.”
Saphyra’s face heated up at his comment and she was suddenly keenly aware that his gaze was lingering on her naked body. “I -I have some spare clothes that work. I’ll take a bath first.”
“I will take my leave then,” Emet-Selch said as he got up from the chair.
“Oh, yeah that’s okay. Thank you for staying.” Saphyra said awkwardly while rubbing at her neck, not really knowing how to act after last night’s endeavors. Their whole dynamic had shifted, and she had willingly given himself to her, admitting that he was more than a distraction, going as far to say she was his. How do you even act after that?
Emet-Selch sauntered over to her and pulled her against him. She felt the cold metal of his medals pressing against her breasts. He leaned over to reach for her ear, and she felt his hot breath which made her shiver. “I will make sure you remember your declarations.” Before she had a chance to respond he claimed her lips and kissed her deeply. Saphyra wrapped her arms around his neck as she melted into his embrace, his scent, his touch, he was intoxicating.
Sooner than she liked, he pulled back and let her go. In a dazed state she watched him disappear in a portal, without so much as saying a word but it was enough. He had stayed.
Refreshed after a long bath and having changed into the attire Tataru had crafted for her before she left for the First, Saphyra sat down to eat breakfast. She quickly downed a bitter potion from a small vial and reminded herself she needed to head to Spagyrics if she and Emet-Selch kept up their current activities as her emergency stash from the Source was running dangerously low.
Seating herself at the table, she sampled the breakfast Emet-Selch had prepared for her. It was delicious, although the bread was no longer warm since she took too long in the bath, it was clear it was freshly baked and the grapes she tried were sweet and juicy. When she tried the pressed juice, she was surprised to taste pomegranate, what an oddly specific choice, but she loved it. A hint of the scent of the tulips he had brought her last night hit her and a smile played on her lips. She was in a rather good mood this morning.
“The whole Crystarium is abuzz with talk of the new Warriors of Darkness. So, it’s your lot’s turn now, is it? Funny how things work out.”
Saphyra nearly knocked over her glass when she heard Ardbert’s voice behind her.
“Seven hells, Ardbert! You startled me. You know these are my “private quarters” right?” She put her hand over her chest while she took calming breaths to make her heart rate go down. She had totally forgotten someone else might have been watching her. This was getting ridiculous, had she no privacy at all anymore?
Saphyra turned around on her chair to look at the ghostly visage in the middle of her room. He would have looked as real as any other person to her, if only the way the morning light reflected on him would not look so unnatural. It made him seem like he was there but also not truly there, the light slightly seeping through his body. Not what she had ever imagined a ghost to be. The stories from her childhood had always described them as things to be feared, horrors of your imagination. Not a brown haired Hyur in armor, although his bloodied axe on his back would have scared the average person, he was friendly enough to compensate for his choice of weapon.
“Aye, I know. Just the place. In case you’ve forgotten, you’re the only one who can see me. If we had one of our little chats in public, people might start thinking you’d lost your wits.” He shrugged.
Saphyra felt slightly bad about her earlier mental lashing at him. Not being able to speak to anyone must be crushingly lonely for him, the least she could do was indulge him.
“Fair enough, sorry about that… I appreciate your consideration,” she smiled at him. “So, you have also been watching?”
“I told you, didn’t I? Back in Amh Araeng. I followed you to Eulmore and I was there when you slew the Lightwarden. I wanted to speak with you last night, but you were yelling at someone, so I decided to leave and come back later.” Ardbert said plainly.
Her blood went cold, how much had he seen? She had completely forgotten. He had informed her he would be watching; she had other things on her mind so she had just completely ignored the possibility he could be watching her more often than she thought. The only time he had been on her mind was when she actively felt like she was being watched, but that had not been him, but Emet-Selch.
Saphyra scraped her throat awkwardly. “I had a bit of a bad day I guess.”
“You fight with people a lot, don’t you? I don’t know if you resolved it, I did not stay to watch. But it did strengthen my resolve to speak with you.”
Saphyra sighed a breath of relief. So, her secret was still safe. Not like he could tell anyone, but she would rather not explain to a ghost what she was doing and who that man was.
“Things have been… difficult here to say the least. I do not know who to trust, Ardbert.” Pain echoed in Saphyra’s voice as she laid her burdens on him. “Am I making the right choices?”
“Those white-haired twins who were with you… I remember them from our battle in the Source. Are they your friends, then? Through thick and thin?” His voice sounded serious, demanding an honest answer from her.
“They were not always, but they are now. I would lay down my life for them and I believe they would do the same for me.” She spoke in earnest for the first time. Of course, the twins knew that she liked them, cared for them and she would treat them affectionately now. But she had never spoken such words to them.
“Aye… Then I suggest you keep them close. It’s when you charge ahead trying to save someone else that you end up losing those you love. Not that you need telling. I’ll bet you’ve lost plenty.” Ardbert said with a knowing look and all Saphyra could respond with was a hollow laugh.
“But I wonder… what will it cost you this time?” His question struck something in her. All this time she had been operating under the idea that she did not care about her life anymore, her flame had nearly gone out. But there were still people she cared about, people she could not accept that would die before she would. If anything, Saphyra would do it all for them.
“I don’t remember when it was that I learned regret wasn’t worth the bother. You get numb to it all over the years. The lost comrades, the broken promises, the abandoned principles – just more burdens to ignore.” Despite Ardbert claiming numbness, Saphyra sensed the grief in his voice. He looked tired as he stared out of the window, averting his gaze from her.
“I know that feeling all too well,” she lamented. “Let us pray I do not join you as a ghost wandering this realm at the end of this journey.”
“I wouldn’t wish that for anyone.” He grimaced at her.
“We will figure out what it means, eventually. You are not alone anymore.” Saphyra tried to offer him words of comfort. Her heart hurt for him, despite having opposed him on the Source, having no choice but to stop his plans at the time, she could not help but feel horrible for him. Spending so long alone, not being able to speak to anyone, having lost all you held dear. It had to mean something, but what?
“Neither are you.” Ardbert said before he disappeared, leaving Saphyra dumbfounded at his words.
He had seen it then, the loneliness creeping at the edges of her mind, always suffocating her as she had to shoulder the next burden. But she realized she had it all wrong. In her rage she had nearly pushed everyone away, without a plan. “Ardbert,” she whispered to herself. “Thank you.”
Notes:
I am not sure when I will be posting next. I had a talk at the hospital today about scheduling a surgery I have been postponing for a long time and I might have a mental crash out due to this. I'll do my best to try to keep to a biweekly schedule but no promises.
Chapter 16: War and Peace
Notes:
My apologies for the later posting. I have a lot of medical appointments going on. Surgery is scheduled in two months and I am very nervous about this... But after I've been under the knife I can't walk for a good few weeks so I'll be so bored I will probably be writing all day so that's going to be good for my upload schedule. Thank you as always for reading!
Chapter Text
The Crystarium was indeed abuzz with talk of the Warriors of Darkness, just like Ardbert had said. The Manager of Suites had warned her not to venture outside of the Crystarium now as the word was that Eulmore had dispatched its military to Lakeland, which worried her. She should probably inquire about this as soon as possible after her errands.
However, despite her lingering discomfort towards the Exarch, she could not help but share in the joy that she saw around her as she walked around the Crystarium. People were transporting lanterns to light their homes, and she caught glimpses of conversations of people wishing to stay up to watch the stars all night. It was hard for her not to smile.
After a quick breakfast and a run to Spagyrics to stock up on her potions, she decided to head to the Ocular. With a pit in her stomach, she stood before the large doors of the Crystal Tower, wondering what she should even say. Apologize? She did not feel like she was in the wrong yesterday, but she could have stayed and perhaps heard the Exarch out. She had offered Emet-Selch the opportunity and he was an Ascian, her supposed enemy. A slight blush creeped on her skin when she remembered his marks on her skin beneath her clothes.
“Are you heading inside?” The Crystarium gatekeep asked her out of nowhere.
“Yes, my apologies for lingering.” She took a few steadying breaths as the large doors opened before her and she stepped inside the Crystal Tower. When she arrived at the Ocular, she did not give herself time to hesitate and opened the door to find the Exarch talking to the twins. The conversation halted immediately as he saw her enter the Ocular. Her heels hitting the crystalline floor was the only sound that pierced the silence in the room.
“Saphyra…” The Exarch said awkwardly while rubbing his crystal arm. The twins said nothing, they just looked at her, waiting for either of them to start talking. They both looked uncomfortable.
Her stomach churned with anxiety, but she decided to speak, nonetheless. For them. For her? “Rest easy, I am not here to fight with you again. However, I do not believe I was in the wrong for being angry with you yesterday.” She paused for a moment. The twins seemed to relax now as they realized Saphyra was not here to shout at the Exarch again. “I realized I should perhaps have offered you a chance to speak.”
“What made you change your mind?” The Exarch sounded surprised. “I thought I had broken the small bond of trust we finally forged between us.”
Saphyra gathered her thoughts for a moment as she decided on how to answer that question. She was not willing to tell him about Ardbert and she did not want to burden the twins with her inner conflict. Her good mood this morning after Ardbert had visited gave her an idea, it was not a lie, but not entirely the truth either.
“I took a walk this morning around the Crystarium, and it was abuzz with talk of the return of the night,” a smile played around her lips as she spoke. “They were truly happy, not as if they were unhappy before, but it was infectious. So full of hope, as they were scurrying about transporting lanterns for their houses or making plans to watch the stars tonight. It was impossible to not feel the same delight. I realized that while I had not set out to do this at my own volition, how could I ever deprive people of such joy?”
“I swear on my life, I will one day atone for my deeds. It’s a price I will happily pay so that this world might be spared from oblivion, even should it cost me all I have. I concede it was wrong of me to summon you and your friends against your will, and I regret keeping you in the dark. But it had to be done, not only for the First, but for the Source as well. Save one, and we save the other. So, I beg you, Saphyra, please stay and see this fight to its conclusion. Help us cast down the Wardens and restore Darkness to the First!” The Exarch pleaded with her.
Saphyra crossed her arms, considering his words carefully. He apologized to her, sort of. It seemed that she was at a crossroads, accepting his proposition meant that there was no turning back and she would have to see this through to the end. She still felt like there was something he was not telling her. His choice of words made it seem like there was perhaps more at stake than she knew now. They had already begun casting down the Lightwardens, what was the cost he was speaking of?
“You don’t have to do this alone either, we will be here with you every step of the way,” Alisaie spoke up for the first time since Saphyra had entered the Ocular. She smiled at Saphyra, looking more comfortable than before now that the tension in the room had dissipated.
“We have decided to continue to fight at the Exarch’s side until the last sin eater is defeated,” Alphinaud added. “We were speaking about it before you arrived. Now that we have a clear path to follow, the Calamity can be averted. I will walk with you, my friend, as I always have.”
Not alone. Ardbert’s words resounded in her mind again as she heard the twins committing themselves to undertake this journey with her. If they were committed to this, she could only follow them. They had not found a way back to the Source in her absence and if the Exarch was the only path to find a way back home for them, she would pursue it. If that meant cooperating with him, she would do it for them. After what she had witnessed in the Crystarium this morning, she could not deny that it would make her feel good to help rid the world of the blight of sin eaters.
“I will do it,” Saphyra looked at the Exarch as she spoke solemnly. “If you promise to ensure my friends will return home safely no matter what happens, I will do it.
“I promise,” the Exarch said without hesitation. “Though I must ask you to keep your involvement in this endeavor a secret for now. No matter how good our intentions, I fear the commotion it would stir among the people of the Crystarium would throw the city into disarray.”
“Very well, I am not looking for another title to add to my repertoire,’ Saphyra shrugged. The twins grinned at her response. They knew she never cared for the titles people had bestowed upon her and she had occasionally complained to them about it how it had annoyed her that people would treat her differently if they found out who she was.
“When I headed out this morning, the Manager of Suites informed me that Eulmore dispatched its military to Lakeland,” Saphyra crossed her arms as she spoke. “Am I right to assume they are here to inquire about the return of the night sky?”
“Before you arrived, we indeed received the news that Eulmore has sent one of its airships to Laxan Loft,” the Exarch replied revealing a view of the airship in the crystalline structure behind him. She saw a part of Lakeland she did not recognize. “You are correct in your assumption that they have questions for us concerning the death of the Lightwarden and we are to expect the arrival of their emissary.” Saphyra wondered if he had used that looking glass for other purposes as well but pushed the thought away for now.
“Lovely, I am sure they will have taken that news very well,” Saphyra said sarcastically.
“I suppose the night sky does rather give the game away,” Alisaie laughed in agreement.
“Indeed. ‘Twas inevitable they would come knocking. The only question was how soon.”
As if the Eulmorans were listening, they were interrupted by Lyna, who brought news that she was accompanying the emissary to the Ocular and asked for permission to enter. The Exarch quickly asked everyone to gather around at the edge of the room and wove a spell around the twins and Saphyra to make them vanish from sight.
It proved to be not a moment too soon, as the doors to the Ocular opened a few moments later. Lyna entered with a tall, and surprisingly elderly Hume in the Ocular, with long silver hair, goatee and mustache, gray eyes and pale skin. Saphyra’s eyes were mostly drawn to the large scar that crossed the entirety of his face. His gray, black and purple garments seemed very understated for someone from Eulmore, even with the golden accessories that adorned them, she had a hard time believing he was an emissary from the city.
The Exarch and General Ran’jit were apparently already acquainted, Saphyra noted, as they both forwent introductions and immediately addressed each other by name or title. When the Exarch had said emissary, she had not expected a general, but upon seeing him and knowing his standing now, his looks made more sense. This man looked like he had endured a lot of combat situations in his lifetime.
Most emissary’s she had met were of the beast tribes, each of proud kin but most of their interactions tainted by Ascian machinations, or Lucia, Aymeric’s second-in-command who had been nothing but kind since they had first met. Asahi was an uncomfortable memory for her, as he posed as an emissary of peace after Zenos had died. Saphyra had been spending a lot of time with Lyse when Hien had called upon her after he decided to keep watch over Yotsuyu on behalf of Gosetsu. She had not been there, she had let her duties slip, occasionally trying to stay involved with the Scions at the encouragement of Lyse.
When Fordola had peered into her mind when she visited her in her prison, she had asked Saphyra how she could bear it, the lies, the betrayal, the endless fighting. How she stood there, unbroken. All she could do was laugh. “Unbroken? I am a shade of who I once was. But there is nothing for me to change about my past. I cannot let the sacrifices of those who died for me be for nothing. So, I persist, because I choose to.”
Of course, the most notably emissary she had met was Elidibus. She had not met him often; he had only spoken to her once personally to take her measure at the Waking Sands and he had been most elusive. The next time they met, he had been puppeteering the corpse of Zenos. When she had first laid eyes upon him on the battlefield as she ran blindly to aid her comrades, she felt elated to see him alive, despite knowing she should not be, but immediately noticed there was something off.
Zenos would have greeted her most excitedly before trying to engage in mortal combat, but Elidibus was cold and calculated. As soon as she realized that it was not him, she nearly threw up. She had fought Ascians before, but the combined strength of Zenos’s abnormal martial prowess and Elidibus’s arcane mastery was nearly too much for her. He had hit her where Zenos would have never been able to touch her, and when G’raha Tia interrupted their fight with another summoning attempt, she nearly died on the battlefield. If not for Estinien’s timely intervention, she would have never been able to cry of rage after finding out that Alisaie’s soul had also been called away while she was forced to recover from her grave injuries.
Saphyra realized she had missed most of the conversation between the Exarch and the general as she had been distracted by her unwelcome memories. It seemed Ran’jit was displeased with the Exarch’s words, and he would relay his stance to Vauthry.
“One last matter. We are searching for a young artist and his assistant. Know you of whom I speak?” Ran’jit inquired. Saphyra looked at Alphinaud next to her with a raised eyebrow. They were still looking for them, apparently Vauthry was still upset over Alphinaud’s insults and their defense of Kai-Shirr.
“An artist and his assistant… No, I cannot say I do.” The Exarch replied nonchalantly.
“What a pity,” Ran’jit said as he turned around to leave the Ocular. “Should they reveal themselves to you, I bid you hand them over at once. My master is most eager to see them again.” For a moment he stared directly at the spot where they were standing, as if he could see them despite the Exarch’s spell work. He promptly left afterwards, leaving them behind in confusion.
The Exarch promptly reversed his spell when Ran’jit had left, and they gathered again. “Am I imagining things, or did he just stare straight at us?” Alisaie said immediately.
“I am quite sure he did, there is no way he would have guessed we were standing there,” Saphyra said. “Who is that man?”
“I fear he did,” The Exarch responded in kind. “The general is not a man to be trifled with. He is a warrior of fearsome repute who has led Eulmore’s army before Vauthry’s time, when the nation still spearheaded the fight against the sin eaters. One does not command the world’s mightiest army, and for so long, without possessing exceptional instincts.”
“If Eulmore chose to send such an individual, we must assume his talk of retribution is more than an idle threat. While we are grateful for your support, my lord – we cannot in good conscience put your people in harm’s way,” Alphinaud said. Saphyra was grateful for his summary of their conversation as she had missed most of it. She decided not to take a stance in this however, they decided to take on the Lightwardens, this was a natural consequence of their actions, if war was to follow, it was not up to them to decide what the Crystarium would do.
“’Tis noble of you to say, Master Alphinaud, but my people have been in harm’s way since long before you arrived. Eulmore has ever yearned to rule over what remains of the world,” The Exarch started to explain. “Even should we surrender the Warrior of Darkness to them, which we will not, they would find some other pretext upon which to invade. The people of the Crystarium know this only too well, which is why, when the time comes, I am certain they will fight to the last man. I would not have been surprised had Ran’jit declared war here and now…”
“He may have reasons to delay,” Lyna interrupted. “A young woman believed to be none other than the Oracle of Light – Minfilia. It may be that General Ran’jit wishes to convey her to Eulmore before commencing hostilities. Having mentored generations of Minfilias, it would not surprise me if he had made her capture his chief concern.”
Minfilia? Her stomach churned at the mention of the name of her old friend. The twins seemed to be unfazed by this information, which meant that once again she was the last to know. It was probably a bad idea to feel hopeful to meet Minfilia again here in some way, but she missed her. During her time as a Scion, she had felt the closest to Minfilia in the beginning, as she was always worried about Saphyra, often inviting her just to have tea and talk. The first person she called a friend; someone she shared her burdens with. “I am sorry, but Minfilia? The Minfilia? What are you talking about?” She sounded slightly desperate.
The Exarch noticed his mistake immediately. “A-ah. My apologies. I had intended to speak to you of Minfilia. There is, however, much to say, and precious little time in which to say it… Alphinaud, Alisaie – would you care to accompany your friend to the Cabinet of Curiosity? I think it is best to seek out Moren, he will be able to enlighten you, and you doubtless have insights of your own to offer on the matter.”
The twins agreed to take Saphyra to the Cabinet of Curiosity as she tried not to be upset with the Exarch again for not divulging this information. They had other things on their mind at the moment, the threat of war was looming and time mattered. So, for now, she would push her feelings aside and focus on her duty.
“We will be going then,” Saphyra said as a goodbye when she walked out of the Ocular with Alphinaud and Alisaie at her side.
“Take care, my friends. In the meantime, I will set about making provisions for war.”
Chapter 17: The Tale of the Oracle
Notes:
My apologies for not updating this work in a while. I have been working on the later chapters for it (and I uploaded a separate piece for 5.5-6.0 that randomly came to me) and the ending, which are done. I have also been dragged into a static for savage raiding which is eating my time and another very big writing project. I promise this fic will be finished. I will undergo surgery on the 20th next month so hopefully I have time to write during my recovery arc as I will be in bed a lot!
Chapter Text
The Cabinet of Curiosities was nothing short of a delight. The smell of a large collection of tomes hit her immediately as she entered through the large doors, and she feasted her eyes on the knowledge before her. When they ascended the spiral staircase to find Moren, she was amazed by the natural lighting from the tall windows as well. This place felt comfortable, somewhere to get away and lose yourself in knowledge.
Moren himself was pleasant and directed them to an introductory children’s book about Minfilia. Saphyra did not question it and quickly went to search for it at the lowest level of the library. Once they found the book in question, Moren was happy to enlighten them with more details while they went through the book. The illustrations were beautiful, she had to admit that. However, the story was grim.
Generations of Minfilia, reborn to slay sin eaters as a soldier in service of Eulmore. All with the selfsame hair, selfsame eyes, and selfsame powers. The Oracle of Light. A terrible inescapable fate, forced to toil and suffer, over and over, carrying the same duty. Saphyra’s stomach churned as she listened to Moren speak of Minfilia. She had not even met the girl yet, she felt like she wanted to protect this girl from that selfsame fate. Nobody deserved to be stuck in a cycle like that. It would end with her.
“Moren, do you know anything about the current Minfilia?” Saphyra asked. She wondered if it was different considering the Exarch’s report of having captured her. What had changed?
“She was found by the Eulmoran Army some ten years ago and taken into their care ...Or rather their custody. She was a prisoner in all but name. For by that time, under Lord Vauthry's rule, Eulmore had already abandoned resistance in favor of decadence,” Moren replied.
That was rather different. No longer a soldier, but a prisoner. Something had changed over the years and the source seemed to be Vauthry and his rule, which seemed to fit everything she knew about the man and the city. Vanquishing sin eaters did not seem like something he would prioritize.
“Minfilia was an uncomfortable reminder of the war they no longer wished to fight. A potential threat to the peace. And so, they kept her under lock and key. For a long while, we heard nothing more of her. We couldn't even be certain she was alive, save that it was in the Eulmorans' best interests for her to remain under their control. But then, three years ago, a gallant soul stole into the city and rescued her from their clutches! Just like a hero from the tales!” Moren elaborated, clearly encouraged by the story himself.
Who could that have been? Three years ago, surely that was not one of her comrades… Thancred?
“Indeed. Well, I believe we now have a good grasp of Minfilia's tale. Thank you for your time, Moren.” Alphinaud hastily interjected. “Might I trouble you for a word, Saphyra? Outside?”
Saphyra nodded and the trio left the Cabinet of Curiosities after Saphyra thanked Moren as well for his time and explanation about Minfilia. In front of the closed large doors, they were suddenly alone.
“As you will have already surmised, the gallant soul who rescued Minfilia was none other than our own dear Thancred,” Alphinaud said immediately after they were alone.
“I guessed something like that, yes.” Saphyra replied. “I think that the name Minfilia would have been hard for him to ignore. Speaking of which, where is he? The Exarch gave me nothing, really.”
“They have since been wandering the land together, never remaining in one place for long ─ which is why we have not yet had a chance to meet them.”
“I see, that makes sense. It is the best way to stay ahead of Eulmore after all.”
Alphinaud nodded in agreement.
“We know that Minfilia journeyed here as Hydaelyn's emissary to halt the Flood of Light. It could only be her that the people of the First witnessed a hundred years ago. The original Oracle of Light,” Alisaie started. “But while there's plainly some connection between the woman we knew and her namesakes, the fact that these girls do not share her memories must surely mean they are not the same person. Thancred must understand that.”
“I hope he does. It must be hard for him to see someone he considered family,” Saphyra admitted with a gentle tone. She understood why Thancred was drawn to her, losing Minfilia was a heavy burden he had carried for a long time. Projecting his feelings however onto someone who is not the same person… that is something else. She did not know how to feel about that.
“I have no doubt that he understands. The question is indeed how he feels. Regardless, the Thancred we know would not forsake his charge. If she has been captured, we may be certain he will not stand idly by.” Alphinaud said.
“If you think we should rescue Minfilia, just spit it out, Alphinaud. It's quite clear that this Minfilia possesses Hydaelyn's blessing. And it wouldn't hurt to have a second such individual on our side. Right, Saphyra?” Alisaie interjected.
“Not at all. If only to save her from her fate alone, I would do it. I will admit, listening to her story made me feel like I would rather protect her and end the cycle if I could myself,” she admitted. “Minfilia was dear to me too.”
Suddenly she heard familiar footsteps approaching, and when she turned around, the Crystal Exarch was behind them.
“I see you have made up your minds.” He said when he noticed Saphyra had seen him.
“Any news, Exarch?” She responded promptly.
“A report and a proposal. First, the report. Our scouts have confirmed that the Eulmoran forces at Laxan Loft do indeed have Minfilia in their custody. For the present, they are holding her there, but we can be certain they will move her to Eulmore ere long. Should that happen, we may be forced to give her up as lost.”
Saphyra crossed her arms. If they did not act now, she might not get to speak to Minfilia. She had to admit she was deeply curious about her.
“So, we must act fast. What is your proposal?” Saphyra inquired.
“That you leave this to us, the people of the Crystarium.”
Chapter 18: The Oracle of Light
Notes:
Bit of a filler chapter but soon things will get more interesting. I do think it's necessary to get Saphyra's feelings about everyone out there. Hope you enjoy regardless :)
Chapter Text
The Exarch did not refuse for them to fight, no, he asked the people of the Crystarium their opinion. To oppose Eulmore was to accept the mantle of villainy so to speak, so they accepted this title without hesitation. Saphyra did not mind, she had loathed Eulmore. If this was the way to oppose them, she would not tread lightly. No one else opposed the proposition, therefore the Crystarium was made ready for war.
Katliss fitted Saphyra with a uniform so she would fit in with the guard and she was briefed by Lyna on the use of the dream powder they would scatter on their enemies to take them by surprise and prevent more casualties. She was to meet the others at the Ostall Imperative once she had obtained a serum to ward off the effects of the dream powder at Spagyrics.
After consuming the foul concoction dubbed the Prince’s Kiss, Saphyra headed to Szem Djenmai, whom she had met once before for an amaro so she could hopefully reach the Ostall Imperative as soon as possible. Unfortunately for her, a hiccup in her journey was to be expected. There were none available, and she had to make a stop at Radisca’s Round and walk the rest of the way. For lack of a better alternative, she agreed to Szem’s proposal.
Once again on the back of the flying creature, she got to enjoy the sight of Lakeland from above. The sight of the purple trees and foliage had become her favorite ever since she had arrived here. The wind caressed her face as she quickly passed over the land below her. As luck would have it, the sentry at the Round informed her they had enough amaro and she could fly to her destination on the one entrusted to her.
When she arrived at the stronghold that was described to her, she was greeted by an amaro handler that happily accepted the creature from her and informed her of Lyna’s whereabouts. The Ostall Imperative seemed strategic enough, tall structures to overlook the area, which would be advantageous for defense.
Saphyra met Lyna standing on an overlook and she greeted her with a wave.
“So, it seems that rather than the amaro delivering you, you delivered the amaro,” Lyna said. “I'll not thank you—I expect all my soldiers to make themselves useful. Speaking of which, I have a task for you.”
Lyna explained that the amaro too needed to be administered the serum, but instead of directly making them drink it, it would be mixed with their fodder.
“A task I am sure you will enjoy. Fetch the fodder from the amaro launch and see to four of the beasts. Dismissed.” Lyna said curtly.
Lyna was not wrong; the task was enjoyable. The amaro were gentle creatures and the way they responded to being fed the fodder was endearing to behold. Saphyra traced the wings of the last amaro as she finished her task and noticed how soft its feathers felt through her thin gloves.
Upon her return to Lyna, she was ordered to await deployment atop the main watchtower where she received her uniform. As she changed into the chainmail uniform, which felt unnaturally heavy to her, she heard noise below her. The operation would soon begin. Not long after she was done, a scout shouted: “The operation is about to commence! Stand ready!”
The advance contingent spread the dream powder at the Laxan Loft and as soon as they got the news the powder had taken effect, Lyna and Saphyra followed suit on their own amaro. Immune to the powder thanks to the Prince’s Kiss, they arrived safely at the entrance and could easily support the fighting contingent that was trying to hold back the Eulmoran soldiers that were still awake.
Alphinaud and Alisaie grouped up with them as they searched for the Oracle of Light on the grounds of the Loft. Despite the use of the dream powder, there was no lack of resistance from the Eulmoran soldiers. Saphyra’s group swiftly acted to take them out as they tried to support the Crystarium contingent in holding them back from overwhelming them while continuing their search.
Alisaie and Alphinaud urged Lyna and Saphyra to go ahead without them as there seemed to be no end to the Eulmoran soldiers. The fear that the Oracle would be taken away crept up on her. They started climbing the old stairs to get to the Eulmoran airship in the hope of catching up with her. When Saphyra hit the last soldier with a nasty aimed flare in his chest and he collapsed on the floor Lyna suddenly shouted: “There she is!”
On the ground in front of the large Eulmoran airship was a small light blond-haired girl in a white dress with long brown boots. Her hands were bound behind her back. Next to her was a snoring Eulmoran soldier, so they would not have to deal with him. “Quickly — free her!” Lyna shouted again. Saphyra ran over to her and quickly unbound the hands of the young girl and helped her stand.
She was luckily unharmed and as she became conscious, Saphyra noticed her eerily bright blue eyes. So different from Minfilia she knew, yet the hue was similar enough to say they looked familiar. Her hair had a pink ribbon in it, which also reminded her of the way Minfilia’s hair looked when she had last spoken to her, no, when Hydaelyn had spoken through her.
Suddenly, she understood why everyone had been worried about Thancred. She felt conflicted, this child was clearly a different person, yet eerily familiar.
“Th-Thank you. Are you… from the Crystarium?” She spoke with a gentle, high-pitched voice.
“Correct. We’ve come to rescue you,” Lyna answered. Saphyra was relieved she spoke for her, as she was not sure if she could speak right now.
Before this Minfilia could react, Lyna handed her two daggers. “Your weapons—made to the same specifications as Thancred’s. Be ready to use them.”
“U-understood,” Minfilia nodded. “Please lead the way.”
Saphyra and Minfilia just looked at each other curiously, without speaking, but acknowledging each other.
“Let’s rejoin the others and quit this place,” Lyna urged as she led them down the stairs again.
“All this trouble because of me… I’m so sorry…” Minfilia’s remorse made Saphyra feel terrible. It was not her fault that the Eulmorans were hunting her, that her fate was designed like this.
“Save your apologies until after we’ve escaped.” Lyna responded as they rushed further to the entrance of the Loft.
When they rushed further to the entrance, they noticed it was eerily quiet. The fighting had died down and nobody seemed to be around. It felt… off. As they passed through an empty corridor, an unwelcome guest seemed to have arrived. Ran’jit stood across from Alphinaud and Alisaie, who had their weapons drawn.
“Hmph, brazen thieves,” the old general spoke, a draconic creature floating next to him. Saphyra wondered what kind of powers that would grant him, knowing the dragonkin of the Source. “You will regret coming here.”
The five of them immediately were attacked by the general, who proved to be a more than worthy opponent. He taunted them while striking her friends with brutal attacks, leaving them nearly unconscious. His draconic ally seemed to grant him some form of magical prowess, not only allowing him to strike her with electricity, but also fire while she had to dodge his blade. A major disadvantage for her destructive magicks that required precision.
Her breathing started to become heavy as she felt the power of fire surge through her body again as she transitioned from ice while she tried to dodge Ran’jit’s blade once more. Another well-aimed fire attack hit him in the chest and burned the edge of his beard. “Enough!” He shouted and he bolted forward. With one single blow he struck her down and she fell to her knees, exhausted.
Ran’jit turned to Alphinaud and observed him for a moment. “You, boy. You bear a striking resemblance to the artist my master seeks.” Alphinaud looked away and did not respond. Saphyra was relieved, she hoped he would deny his accusations.
“By all means, keep your counsel. You will have ample time to confess your crimes back in Eulmore.” Ran’jit taunted as he slowly walked over to Alphinaud.
Before Saphyra could react, Thancred comes out of nowhere attempting to strike Ran’jit from behind with a gunblade. Where did he pick that up? She had never seen him wield one before. Ran’jit interjected the attack with his foot immediately, as if he knew the attack was coming, like a sixth sense. He easily dodged his other attacks with his hands behind his back, while accusing him of stealing Minfilia from Eulmore.
As he pushed Thancred back and taunted him, suddenly Saphyra and companions saw a glow forming around them and a pulling feeling started to form in her chest. They were being teleported. Before she knew it, she was no longer in the Laxan Loft, but near the edge of the forest. A way out.
Thancred led the way as they ran forward, away from their enemies and Lyna gives them a salute as a final goodbye. Saphyra had no idea if they were being followed, but she kept running, hoping Ran’jit would not be on their heels. She could not shake the feeling like they were still being watched, but it could be anyone. However, their aid could have come from none other than the Exarch, as who else would have been capable of teleporting them? She dismissed any other concerns as she kept running after the others into an unknown land filled with flowers and clouded by a strange mist.
Chapter 19: Domain of the Fae
Notes:
Apologies for the long hiatus, my surgery really sucked. I'm not really in the swing of things of things again, but I wanted to post something. Next chapter is already done and drafted
Chapter Text
Reuniting with Thancred was nothing like she imagined. He was different of course, as five years had passed for him and none for her, but he was happy to see her, nonetheless. After they hugged shortly, he regained his stern demeanor towards his charge however and that threw her off. He had never been this… serious? Even after Minfilia died, he had been looking for distractions and had been laid back at times, but this felt different.
The Exarch had been right it seemed, everyone had their own reasons for staying and he had found his in the girl, this Minfilia. Her looks made her think of her friend, but her voice and demeanor could not be more different. She was clearly her own person. Saphyra could only hope Thancred knew the difference too. To bear such a burden as a child, a legacy so heavy, she felt pity for her.
The girl was incredibly shy yet kind, and she surprised Saphyra that the sole reason she had been captured was that she had sensed her presence and wanted to seek her out. Before she could ask why, they were interrupted by the creatures of the lands they had fled to. The faerie kingdom Il Mheg.
Caught in their spell, they had lost the memory of the way to Urianger’s abode, and not knowing the way and were unable to see through the mist. They had to find their way through the tricks of the fae if they wanted to find Urianger. Thancred suggested finding their village first, which they should permit, despite their tricks and teasing.
As they followed the path, Saphyra noted that the scent and presence of flowers despite the mist was overwhelming. This place was probably incredibly beautiful if the view was not so obscured. She almost felt annoyed that her introduction to these lands was so dulled by this.
They found their way to the village and Thancred asked her to seek out some plant named ‘looking grass’. Which under normal circumstances would be easy enough, however, she was approached at every turn by pixies who wanted to ask her things. Saphyra decided to ignore them as she was already on edge and to focus on her task at hand, which seemed to annoy them even more as they wanted to play with her.
Despite eventually finding the looking grass, she was sent to do more chores. Although she found it tedious, the pixies granted her some insight into their society, which she appreciated. They might tease or bother her; she was genuinely interested in this place. Saphyra hoped they would lift the enchantment soon so she could appreciate it fully, as she could only imagine the sight.
Upon reuniting with the rest after her chores they still had made no further progress. Saphyra realized she had been an idiot. She had known a pixie all along and she could have asked for help. What was their name again…? How could she have forgotten? Granted, they only met briefly, and she had wanted to get rid of the Crystal Exarch at the time, but surely, she should have remembered. Saphyra felt embarrassed of her forgetfulness.
“Feo Ul…?” Saphyra said out loud hesitantly, hoping she got the name right.
A voice rang in her mind: “So! My sapling finally remembered about her lovely branch! But with such a half-hearted call, she may as well lop me off and cast me aside! Hmph, I have no sapling!”
“Please Feo Ul, I need you! I’m sorry!” She called out louder this time.
Saphyra heard the voice in her head again: “Hmph, is that your idea of a fervent call? A sodden log could do it with more fire!”
“O loveliest of branches, please grant me your succor! I have missed you so!” Saphyra nearly shouted.
Feo Ul appeared before her with a burst of light emanating from their body.
“Grrr...unnngh... You...you! You're late! Late, late, late! I've been waiting for you to summon me ever since you came here! Waiting and waiting and waiting! But my sapling didn't so much as utter my name! Such a heartless thing she is! Cold and cruel and heartless!” Feo Ul kept sputtering disappointment at Saphyra.
“I am so sorry, I have been forgetful. I should have called for you as soon as I arrived with all my heart. Forgive me, Feo Ul!” Saphyra tried. “I would be most grateful for your help now, my loveliest branch.”
“Oh, very well, how can I refuse you when you ask me like that. After your fervent call I cannot possibly stay angry at you.”
The other fae were clearly not pleased with this outcome and had dubbed Feo Ul as the Madbloom within minutes of them appearing. Saphyra did not think Feo Ul was stranger than any other fae, but perhaps their familiarity with mankind and dwelling in their towns made them the odd one out.
After threatening the other fae with spreading the contents of her bag, which she would very much like to keep private, they agreed to lift the spell, under the condition that they could play with the twins.
The twins did not object and the spell was lifted, revealing the land around them in all its glory. From the flowers to the rainbows above the lake crowning the castle in the distance, Il Mheg the fairy kingdom was breathtaking. Saphyra was lost for words for a few moments as she took it all in. The First was growing on her, each place she visited more enchanting than before, its people slowly finding a way into her heart.
“Saphyra, are you alright?” Thancred inquired.
“It’s breathtaking…” she murmured.
Thancred chuckled. “Don’t get enchanted again, we are here for Urianger, remember?”
“Lead the way.”
Urianger’s house could only be described as cozy, made entirely of wood and round shapes overlooking the lake on a hill. As soon as they stepped inside, without Minfilia, whom Thancred sent away to imbue more of his cartridges, they found the man buried in some tomes. She hardly recognized him, as he had donned different attire which revealed far more of his stature than she had seen before.
When he turned around, he greeted them with a warm smile.
“Why did you hide such a handsome face beneath such a foul cowl all this time, Urianger? Such a waste.” Saphyra teased him. A slight blush adorned his cheeks as he inquired if she truly thought the attire suited him and he informed her he had taken up astrology while they had been apart. The man seemed to have become more at ease with himself during his time here which amused her, but a more pressing question lingered on her mind.
“While I am glad to see you again in good health, I must know… the prophecy. Is any of it true? Did you truly see what the Exarch claims you have seen?” Saphyra started, a knot forming in her stomach. “To be forthcoming, I do not trust him. Hells, this whole ordeal has been shrouded in secrecy. So please be honest with me.”
“As I drifted hither to the First, traversing the boundary 'twixt reality and potentiality, I did indeed bear witness to events yet to come...’ Urianger replied. “The events which would become known as the Eighth Umbral Calamity.”
He went on to describe his vision in detail, how the Eorzean and Far Eastern forces pushed back the Garlean Empire far enough they forced their hand they turned to their secret weapon: Black Rose. It’s potency was devastating, it corrupted the very land itself. The rule of law gave way, and nations fell, enveloping the world in chaos. The weapon spared caused destruction without discriminating, from the Eorzean people to the Garlean soldiers, the common folk, none were spared, not even the Warrior of Light.
“No matter the cost, we must forestall this tragedy. To that end, I have labored during my sojourn in this world, discovering in so doing the answer to a pressing mystery. That of Black Rose's inexplicable potency.” Urianger spoke, his face serious.
So that was the truth of it, Saphyra thought to herself, the reason her friends fought. The wonton chaos and destruction, the fall of nations, but also, truly saving her in this possible future.
“And did you find an answer?” Saphyra inquired. She chose to believe him. What choice did she have? Her friends clearly all believed what he saw and were willing to stake their lives on it. For her, for this world. For their world.
“Aye.”
A simple word, yet she sighed a breath of relief, nonetheless. He gestured for her to come over to a chart on the wall, which she recognized as the elemental wheel. After giving her a brief overview, he revealed to her that the philosophy of the people from the First of Light and Darkness made him think about the thinning of the aether on the Source and the power of stasis. The consequences of it trickling from the First to the Source, combined with the selfsame power of Black Rose, halting the circulation of aether in a person could only mean one thing: a calamity.
“So, our objective remains unchanged? Slay the Lightwardens, forestall the calamity?” Saphyra asked.
“Yes, but at least we will have a better grasp of what we are facing, don’t we?” Thancred shrugged.
She let Thancred and Urianger discuss the logistics of finding the Lightwarden as she stopped listening. Her mission remained unchanged, it seemed like there was no way out for her but forward. She had no choice but to follow the path the Exarch had laid out for her, whether she wanted to follow it or not. Her friends were determined to walk it, and she had decided to not abandon them. She wondered why that was so difficult to accept for her.
“Ah, lest I forget…” Urianger suddenly said to Saphyra, “White auracite, newly forged for thy use.” He handed her the large white crystal, and she hastily put it in her bag, knots forming in her stomach. What would her friends think if they knew she had already been seeing an Ascian? Seeing it was the understatement of the eon, but she was not willing to admit what exactly was going on between them.
“T-thank you, Urianger, I am sure it will come in use.”
“Can I come in now?” Minfilia’s voice suddenly rang through the cottage. Thancred finally did not oppose, and Saphyra was relieved, she did not want to accidentally misspeak and have to talk herself out of a situation.
Thancred explained that his limitations from the Source of not being able to manipulate aether had extended to the First, and that Minfilia helped him charge his cartridges for his gunblade. How very sweet of her, Saphyra thought. She was nice to him, compared to how sternly he treated her.
Urianger implored Minfilia to peruse his tomes and select some if she felt like doing so. She was thrilled and immediately went over to the bookshelves.
“Has thou spoken to Saphyra of thine encounter with the Minfilia of eld?” Urianger inquired.
“No, we haven’t had the time. But I suppose now is as good a time as any. As you know, I freed young Minfilia from captivity in Eulmore some three years past.” Saphyra was still slightly surprised every time her friends mentioned how long they had been stuck in the First without her. The guilt kept creeping up on her for doubting their path.
“Not long after, the two of us journeyed to the south of Amh Araeng. To the edge of the Empty, where the Flood was halted. 'Twas there that she awakened. The Minfilia of old. My Minfilia…”
Her head suddenly started pounding and she could feel it, another vision of the Echo…
Thancred and Minfilia, her Minfilia, arguing, asking the impossible of Thancred, to give her up and to guide this Minfilia. Oh Thancred… She felt bad for him, but she understood why. Minfilia made her sacrifice and guided generations of Minfilia’s that died. Wanting to end the cycle is not a selfish request. It is selfless.
“I've told her many things ─ where we came from, what we fight for. But of that day, I have not spoken.” Thancred spoke hesitantly.
“How do you want this to end, Thancred?” Saphyra responded. “You can’t make that decision for her, you know…”
“With the coming of another possessed of the blessing of Light, the First hath begun to rise up in defiance of its fate.” Urianger interjected. “The question remaineth, however... Who shall take up the flame of hope which Minfilia hath borne for so long? Whether we will it or no, the choice must soon be made.”
Urianger once again reminded her of her position. She had to rise to the occasion, no matter what.
“I'm sorry I took so long. It was so hard to choose. In the end, I settled on just the one.” Minfilia came back with an old book in her arms.
“That is well. Now, if all is in order, let us set forth to seek out the twins to rest for the night.”
ice_flower on Chapter 3 Thu 12 Sep 2024 02:54AM UTC
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