FFXIV Stories

[xhartbigx]

Reblog if you’re over 20 and still read/write fan fiction.

I’m curious!

[celaena-writes]

#40 and still writing

[celaena-writes]

Hello

to all of the porn bots that are randomly following me. -_________-

[brainsanalysis-deactivated20210]

Hello please reblog this if you’re okay with people sending you random asks to get to know you better

[rocket-sith]

Reblog if you write fic and people can inbox you random-ass questions about your stories, itemized number lists be damned.

[celaena-writes]

To End the Song - Ch 1

The first chapter to the sequel to Strength in Unity is up~ While not required, I highly recommend reading that one first to give you some context on Celaena and Aymeric's relationship so far. Link can be found on AO3 or in my backlog here. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------

The clash of steel against steel rang loudly through the frigid air of Camp Dragonhead. Ignoring the din of the small crowd that had surrounded her, the Warrior of Light parried her opponent's thrust and sidestepped the swipe of his shield. Nearly a moon had passed since Alphinaud, Tataru, and herself had found their way to the camp after the ill-fated banquet in Ul’dah. Though they were no closer to determining the fate of their comrades, Lord Haurchefant had made good on his promise that anyone seeking them would receive no help from House Fortemps. Turning her sword, she struck the knight’s wrist with the flat of her blade, sending his own weapon clattering to the frozen earth. “Yield!” the man cried. “I yield.”

Her presence at the camp had left her with little time to herself. All too eager were the knights to challenge her to prove their mettle. At first, her summoning magicks were enough, but after too many victories, she was relegated to using the sword or the lance as a way of leveling the playing field. Unfortunately for them, she had received training in both. “An excellent showing, my friend!” Haurchefant exclaimed, clapping his hands. “Loath though I am to distract you from your daily beatings of my knights, I bring wonderful news! Pray wait in the intercessory until I have found Master Alphinaud and Mistress Tataru.”

“Thank you, Lord Haurchefant,” Celaena replied, turning to the knight, still huffing from exertion. “And thank you for the match.” Though Haurchefant didn’t say what the good news was, she could only guess that he had somehow found a way for them to enter the city. Snow crunching under her boots, she crossed the yard to the room where much and more had transpired to bring her to this day. Warming her frozen hands by the fire, it wasn’t long before Alphinaud and Tataru joined her followed by a positively giddy Haurchefant.

“I bring tidings!” he exclaimed, excitedly. “Count Edmont has decreed that the three of you be taken in as wards of House Fortemps. Under our patronage, you shall be granted access to the city proper. Pray consider our manor your new headquarters, from which you may gather information and plan how best to proceed. Needless to say, should any of your missing allies be found–as I am certain they shall–they will of course be welcome to join you there.” 

The summoner’s jaw dropped. Her friend had gone above and beyond whatever expectations she may have had. To be granted access to the city was one thing, but to be placed under the care of one of the four High Houses beggared belief. “I…I don’t know what to say,” she began. 

“You are more than generous, my friend,” Alphinaud interjected. “On behalf of my fellows, I humbly accept your offer of hospitality.”

“The count is a good man and just. He will treat you with the kindness and respect that a hero–and dear friend–deserves.”

“Of that, I have no doubt,” Celaena said, smiling.

“To Ishgard, then–together. There we shall carry on the Scion’s legacy. There we shall begin anew,” Alphinaud stated.

“Hear hear!” Tataru exclaimed, dancing happily.

“I must go on ahead and speak with the count. Fear not, for everything has been arranged. You need but to state your names at the Gates of Judgement and the sentries will allow you to pass. My manservant shall await you at the city gates, ready to escort you to our manor, where we shall meet again. Until then!”

Her eyes following her friend until he disappeared out the door, Celaena turned to her diminutive friend when she said, “They say the winds can be rather fierce on the Steps of Faith. Be sure to wrap up before we go!” 

“Then wrap up we shall,” Alphinaud replied. “I have a few things to retrieve from my room, but I shall meet with the both of you at the camp’s entrance anon.”

“As do I,” the summoner added.

“Very well, I shall see you two soon!” the Lalafell said happily.

—-------

Clasping her parka around her a short time later, Celaena joined her two friends at the entrance to Camp Dragonhead. “Are we ready to make our foray into the city?” Alphinaud asked.

“I’m so excited!” the Tataru exclaimed.

“As am I,” the Elezen added. “We’re the first outsiders to enter the city in years. I do hope our presence is most welcome.”

“Then let us find out,” the young man said. “To the Gates of Judgement!”

The trio walked the short distance to the entrance of the city. Though their names  were blackened with royal blood, the sentry on duty granted them access, “Wards of House Fortemps?” he asked. “You may pass.”

The iron gate groaned as it lifted, permitting them access to the Steps of Faith. Tugging at her fur lined collar, Celaena and her friends stepped onto the bridge that would lead them to salvation. Fierce winds ripped at her hair and made her green eyes tear up as she trudged across the span. The weather had been far kinder the day she had stood with the knights of Ishgard to defend the city against the Dravanian horde. Limbs numb from the cold, the three of them finally reached the city gates and set foot unto its lower levels. 

Stonework broken and scorched by dragon fire greeted them as the gates of the Arc of the Worthy ground shut behind them. Headless statues guarded the nearby aetheryte plaza while a tattered Ishgardian standard flapped lazily in the wind. The stench of burning filled her nostrils as injured knights limped by and dirty faces peered at them from the shadows–some with curiosity and others with blatant disdain. Her jaw dropping slightly at the sheer height of the spires towering before her, she brought her eyes back down when a younger man dressed in black finery approached them and bowed, “Master Alphinaud, Mistress Tataru, and Mistress Fireheart, I presume?”  Read the rest on Ao3

An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works

[celaena-writes]

Strength in Unity - Chapter 7: The Parting Glass

The events of the banquet culminate in disaster... where will our heroes flee?

It's finished! Read on AO3

An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works

[celaena-writes]

Strength in Unity - Chapter 6: The Bloody Banquet

After the successful defense of the Steps of Faith, a celebration is to be held in honor of Ishgard's victory. Upon arriving in Ul'dah, Celaena and the Scions sense that not all is as it should be...

Read on AO3

An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works

[celaena-writes]

Strength in Unity - Chapter 5

Chapter 5: Steps of Faith 

by: celaena-writes

Summary:

The Alliance has made their decision. What fate awaits at The Steps of Faith?

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

The desert air reeked of sweat and unwashed bodies and the grittiness of the everpresent sand never left her wanting for an eye irritant. That same sand crunched under her boots as she pushed through the throng of the Sapphire Avenue Exchange, ignoring the cries of the merchants hawking their wares as she made her way to the Chamber of Rule. Though Ul’dah was never her favorite city to visit, Ishgard’s plight had seemingly struck a chord with the alliance leaders and they had called an assembly in the Fragrant Chamber. Naturally, Alphinaud saw fit to attend and had requested her presence as well. Despite her time being better spent preparing for the upcoming battle, she couldn’t deny her attendance would only aid their plea for help. Trudging up the steps carpeted in the lushest of ink and gold, she greeted her young friend and was ushered inside by Bartholomew, the chamber’s ever present guardian.

Sat in a chair too large for even her Elezen frame,the summoner listened to the alliance bicker and bemoan the current state of their respective cities. The alliance could spare no more than a handful of troops, citing their own needs taking precedence. Raubahn proposed hiring the free companies to assist in the fight, which, of course, incensed Alphinaud. “I beg your pardon!? You would entrust the survival of Ishgard to sellswords !? Crises like these are the very reason why this alliance was formed! It is our duty to aid our fellow man!”

“My duty is to my country and my people,” Merlwyb rebuked. “If you expect us to place the welfare of a foreign power above our own, you’re going to be sorely disappointed. Lest you doubt, Limsa comes first, then the Alliance, and finally–circumstances permitting–Ishgard and the rest. If you cannot understand so simple a concept, then you have no place at this table.”

“Forgive me, Admiral. I was…careless in my choice of words.” Alphinaud replied.

“I suggest you assemble a party of elite adventurers, assuming you haven’t already,” Raubahn interjected. “Your fellows served us well during Operation Archon. I daresay they will do so again.”

“It’s already been done,” Celaena replied. “I’ve contacted several of my fellow adventurers and Tataru has let the Adventurer’s Guild in Mor Dhona know assistance is required to those who are willing.”

With the proposal of a redistribution of forces in Ul’dah to send a larger number to Ishgard, accompanied by a halfhearted response from the Sultana, the meeting was adjourned and the summoner met her friend outside the chamber. “Once again, I owe you an apology. It seems you have been conscripted into leading a contingent of adventurers on yet another mission of inestimable danger. …But I fear we have been left with little alternative. We cannot well abandon Lord Haurchefant and Ser Aymeric to their fate. We must abide by the council’s decisions–shortsighted as it is–and strive to fill our roles as Eorzea’s guardians.”

“On the bright side, at least the Alliance is sending what they can, however paltry that may be. It’s better than an outright refusal.”

“Right you are,” he replied, pressing his finger to his ear to answer his linkpearl. “...Then the assault has begun? We have but this moment concluded our audience with the alliance leaders. Move our forces into position. Your unit will join House Durendaire at the Steel Vigil. Man the cannons alongside the knights, and thin the Dravanian horde ere they descend upon Ishgard. I will join you as soon as I am able.” Ending the call, Alphinaud turned to the summoner and said, “Celaena–I would have you and your adventurer allies bolster the defenses as the Steps of Faith. Report first to Ser Marcelain at the Gates of Judgement, and he will direct you to where you are needed most. May the gods grant us victory!”

—------

Snow bit through her jacket and frigid air whipped through her purple locks as her chocobo flew through the Central Highlands and back to the Gates of Judgement. The skirmishes she had assisted with had laid both the House Knights and her fellow adventurers to waste. “ Decimated , you say? Dravanian devils! Damn their scaly hides!” Marcelain did not take the news well. “Hold fast to your grief and fury, my lady. We will avenge the deaths of your fellows in the battle to come!”

“Indeed we shall,” She stated simply.

“Now, ere you commit yourself to the siege, you should know what it is you are tasked with defending. Beyond the Gates of Judgement lie the Steps of Faith–a great bridge of stone that leads directly to the city of Ishgard. More than simply a means to cross the Sea of Clouds, the bridge serves as a foundation for the arcane wards that form the barrier we call Daniffen’s Collar. Alas, in dispelling the barrier’s outermost layer, that thrice-damned witch Iceheart stripped the bridge of its protection, and thus are the dragons now able to land unhindered upon the Steps of Faith. Should the Dravanians succeed in destroying the remainder of the wards, the winged devils will be free to swarm within the city itself. Needless to say, we cannot suffer that to happen. It shall be our task as defenders to prevent any harm from coming to those parts of the bridge wherein the wards are sealed. All now rests on us, adventurer. Lead your comrades out onto the Steps of Faith and prepare to meet the Horde. …May the Fury guide your blades!” Marcelain said enthusiastically.

Green eyes peered through the heavy iron gates and onto the span of stone stretching between it and the city proper. They’d be the first non-Ishgardians to set foot on it in many years. Though she would have preferred the reason being to visit the city, there wouldn’t be a city left to visit if they didn’t hold this bridge. Turning to her group of adventurers, she said, “Is everyone ready?” Nods and murmur of agreements greeted her in return. “Good. I know I’m technically in charge of this unit, but we will be supporting the Temple Knights. Their knowledge of the enemy far exceeds my own, so if they tell you to do something, you to do it. If this bridge falls, Ishgard falls. Understood? Ser Marcelain,” she said, looking at the guard. “Raise the gates please. We’re ready.

Protesting with a heavy, metallic whine, the Gates of Judgement rose to give passage to the stone bridge beyond. As the group set forward, the grinding was drowned out by an ear splitting cry and the flap of huge, leathery wings. All eyes flicked skyward and beheld the giant beast hovering over the bridge. “That’s a really big dragon…” One of the adventurers said.

“And he’s brought friends.” Another added.

“The dragons don’t have cannons. We do,” Celaena replied. “Be on your guard and do take care not to get under that thing’s foot. Forward!”  

Summoning Garuda, she led the charge at the massive dragon. Though she didn’t spot Ser Aymeric in the fray, she was pleased to see Lucia among the throng. “They seek to swarm the healers! Focus your attacks on the dragonflies!” The second commander bellowed.

“You heard the woman! Adventurers, guard the healers!”

“On it!”

Satisfied the chirurgeons were protected well enough, Celaena charged forward before her path was impeded by a stocky dragon snapping at a temple knight who had fallen and lost his weapon. “Oh no you don’t…” She muttered under her breath, picking up a lance from a fallen knight. Running up the back of the beast, she angled the weapon downward and plunged it into the base of its skull. Emitting a roar of agony, the dragon feebly attempted to shake her from his back before it slumped to the ground, dead. “Can you stand?” She asked the knight.

“I…yes,” He stammered.

“Good. Let’s kill this thing and go home,” she replied with a smile before taking off towards the front of the dragon.

“Slings and arrows shall avail us little against the foe. Ready the cannons!” Lucia yelled.

Celaena needed no further instructions as she flung herself behind the nearest Bertha. Swiveling the cannon, she aimed for the massive dragon’s head and pulled the release. She was off her mark, but did manage to strike it in the neck. Other rounds followed suit and though the dragon roared in anguish, it kept moving forward.

And move forward it did, barreling through two of the magical wards and working closer to the city. The dragon had slowed considerably thanks to its many injuries, but if it were to break through the final barrier, Ishgard would be done for. Commanding her Ifrit to engulf the beast in an inferno, Celaena decided she’d had enough.  Dashing in front of the dragon, she held her grimoire aloft and began the incantation. “Stars above, heed my call,” she began, electric blue aether crackling around her. “Rend this foe asunder and bring about his fall!” The sky above changed from icy blue to orange as several flaming meteors rained down upon Vishap and what remained of his horde. When the dust had settled, she was greeted by cheers and whoops of joy “Shout your triumph to the heavens, my friends! The day belongs to Ishgard–and her blessed defenders!” Lucia cried.

High atop the balustrade, Estinien looked down at Eorzea’s champion and smirked. He’d seen her antics with the lance and would have to ask her about it whenever they next met. As if sensing his gaze, she looked up and found him standing there. “One of Nidhogg’s greatest champions…slain. The Horde will not soon recover from this blow,” he said to himself. But what of you, Nidhogg? Why did you not join your minions and make of this battle a slaughter? Have you grown so fond of the stench of your lair? Mayhap you prefer to have your allies fight your battles for you… You have a girl to do your bidding now, do you not? No matter. I shall slay Iceheart, and all the rest… But I yearn to spill the blood of a great wyrm, Nidhogg, and only your death will sate my lance.”

Panting after releasing that explosive burst of aether, Celaena watched the dragoon jump away and began the long, cold walk back to the Gates of Judgement. Alphinaud would no doubt be chomping at the bit to hear her account of what happened. A shocked Ser Marcelain greeted her at the gate. “By the Fury... You have driven the Horde from the Steps of Faith! You! A stranger to our land! I confess, I did not think you capable of such a feat… Yet you yielded not an ilm in the face of dragons that would turn my brother knights' blood to ice. The Fury Herself must walk at your side!”

“I couldn’t have done so without all the help from the Temple Knights and everyone else,” she replied.

“Celaena!” Alphinaud interrupted. “The dragons are routed! Lest you wonder, the fighting at the Steel Vigil was also fierce, but my Crystal Braves were not found wanting!”

“I’m happy to hear that,” she replied. “The dragon that landed on the Steps was massive; no doubt one of Nidhogg’s greatest fighters. With it slain, the Horde should hopefully have been dealt a significant blow.”

“Commander Leveilleur, Celaena... True to your word, you arrived to aid us in our hour of need. On behalf of the Holy See and the people of Ishgard, I offer you my humble thanks.” Aymeric said, bowing. “Though I would stay and lavish you with well-deserved praise, I fear I must away to oversee the aftermath of the siege. Not all the dragons are fled, and there are yet wounded to be carried from the field. Pray let us meet anon that I might express my thanks with the proper courtesy.”

Celaena beamed at him. If he had partaken in the fighting, he looked none the worse for wear. “I’ll hold you to that, Lord Commander.”

Returning her smile, he turned and headed back to the bridge. “I too would offer my thanks, Celaena,” Alphinaud said. “Through your deeds, we have achieved a victory of singular importance. With the Dravanian Horde thus weakened and scattered, the threat to Ishgard has been greatly diminished. And, mayhap equally significant, the Holy See must now recognize the necessity of cooperation with foreign powers. Long have they barred their gates against the outside world, but I am confident that the day will soon come when Ishgard proclaims itself a member of the Eorzean Alliance once more. Much have we sacrificed in our struggles against dragons and primals, the Ascians and the Empire. But, step by unfaltering step, we march ever nearer to our goal. And, as ever, the journey is made with you in the van. The victory you have won this day gives us greater hope for the morrow. 'Tis a hope that shall sustain us in the days to come, and bear us past the many evils that yet seek to hinder our progress. Yes, we have done well, my friend, and I, for one, would take a moment to savor the enormity of our achievement! ...The demands of duty, however, allow me little time for levity. I must accompany Captain Ilberd back to Ul'dah, and reassign those Braves whose squads suffered heavy losses. You, my friend, have earned a rest at the Rising Stones. Pray return to Revenant's Toll, and share your tale with Minfilia in person.

“That sounds like a wonderful idea. I’ll see you soon, Alphinaud.” Flicking her eyes towards Camp Dragonhead, she decided against visiting the ever positive commander. Though she would have loved to regale him with what happened on the Steps, it would have to wait, for her bed at the Rising Stones was calling to her.

Notes:

Sorry for the long hiatus. Between replaying the entire MSQ and Endwalker absolutely wrecking me, Emet-Selch has taken up residency in my brain and refuses to leave, so there may be some content featuring him in the future. Fear not though, I will see this through to the end. As always, comments/kudos are greatly appreciated. Enjoy!

[celaena-writes]

Replaying through the MSQ for both story recon and to refresh my memory before Endwalker and I happened upon the wish.com version of Aymeric in Camp Dragonhead.

[celaena-writes]

Strength in Unity | Chapter 4 - Defenders for Ishgard

Shiva has been dispatched and Iceheart has gotten away again, yet her words linger in Celaena's mind. Though time has past, it would seem Ishgard will need her once more.

Read on AO3

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cracking open her eyes, Celaena quickly shut them to block out the sunlight streaming through the window. It was bright; too bright in fact. The realization hitting her, she quickly sat up and was slapped in the face by the chill of the room as the blankets fell from her body. She had slept in. Cursing under her breath, she begrudgingly left the warm cocoon of her bed and got dressed.

“Good morning sleeping beauty!” Haurchefant greeted her as she made her way downstairs.

“What time is it? Why didn’t you wake me?” She asked.

“It’s nearly midday and I did try waking you, but you weren’t having it. You grumbled something incoherent and pulled the blanket over your head. You were so cute, I didn’t have the heart to force you awake. Besides, after the day you had yesterday, you needed your rest. Even heroes are allowed to take a day off.”

She felt her ears turn pink at the mention of her being cute. It wasn’t a word she ever associated herself with, even as a child, but hearing it from him wasn’t terrible. “Heroes also need to file reports and debrief their teammates of their mission. You know this as well as I do,” she quipped. “But, I did have the best sleep I’ve had in awhile, so thank you for that. I feel much better.”

“You’ll feel even better after you’ve eaten. Don’t think I’m sending you back to Revenant’s Toll on an empty stomach.”

“Good, because I’m starving.”

Chuckling, he said, “Then let us not dally here any longer and get you some food.”

----------

After demolishing two bowls of stew and nearly half a loaf of bread, she made her way to the entrance of the camp with Lord Haurchefant, chatting idly about myriad things. As they neared the aetheryte, she turned to him and said, “As much as I’d like to stay, I really should be getting back. I’m sure everyone is waiting to hear my side of the story.”

“Ah yes, the details of Lady Iceheart’s transformation are best told by the one who witnessed it.”

“Speaking of which, do you have a copy of the Enchiridion I could borrow? Her words are still troubling me and maybe the book can help decipher what she meant.”

“Of course I do! I’ll be right back.”

Her friend retreated to retrieve the book and she looked around the camp. It was hard to believe the area had once been a lush, verdant forest instead of the frozen tundra the Calamity had rendered it into. What must it have felt like to have everything plunge into an eternal winter seemingly overnight? Ishgard had adapted well, she gave them that.

“Your book my lady,” Haurchefant said, interrupting her thoughts. “May Halone guide you in your search for answers.”

“Thank you,” she replied, taking the heavy volume from him and placing it in her bag. “I could use all the help I can get, and if she deigns to help someone like me, I shall be forever grateful. Now, I really must be going. Thank you, as always, for your hospitality.”

“And thank you for all you continue to do,” he said, enveloping her into a hug. “Try not to give me a heart attack next time, though.”

Stiffening briefly at the sudden contact, she chuckled and returned his hug. “I’ll do my best.”

“I’ll hold you to that,” he replied, releasing her. “Do give the Scions my regards.”

Nodding, she slipped her aether into the Lifestream and felt for the familiar beacon situated at Revenant’s Toll. The teleportation spell lifted her off the ground, and with a final wave to her friend, she disappeared in a flash of blue.

Alphinaud paced the plaza outside the Rising Stones. Where is she? She should have been back by now. He thought. He had been watching the aetheryte since late morning and had told his Crystal Braves to report to him the moment she entered the city should she decide to arrive by chocobo. Her report was important, but moreover, he needed to apologize. Minfilia had chastised him thoroughly the night before when he had explained why he had returned alone, calling him inconsiderate among other choice words. The others had agreed with her, and so here he was, waiting for his friend. He was about to go back inside the Rising Stones when a familiar purple haired woman materialized in front of the aetheryte. “There you are!” He exclaimed, marching over to her. “I was beginning to think you decided to stay.”

“Lord Haurchefant decided to let me sleep in. He said I had earned my rest.”

“Ah, yes. About that,” he cleared his throat. “I owe you an apology for my actions last night. It was wrong of me to insist you return after the day you had.”

Celaena smirked. Whether the boy was saying it of his own volition or he had been yelled at by the others into doing so, she said, “Apology accepted.”

“It would seem we have much to discuss. If what you say is true, Iceheart's method of summoning Shiva defies all precedent. It necessitates a complete reappraisal of the primal threat, and of our approach to combating it. Moreover, there are grave ramifications if word of this incident reaches imperial ears. The Garlean Empire believes that primals are an insufferable menace─that their mere existence is a threat to this very star. As such, they deem any action taken against the beast tribes to be justified by default. Imagine then...if it became known that it was not only the beast tribes of Eorzea that could summon primals, but her civilized peoples as well, any lingering objections to the Eorzean campaign would vanish overnight. Where before we had to contend with a single imperial legion, we could well find ourselves facing the combined might of all Garlemald… But I speak unadvisedly. Come, Celaena─it is better that we continue this conversation inside. If there is one thing that can be said for Ser Aymeric, it is that he understands how dangerous knowledge can be in the wrong hands. We are but fortunate that this incident took place in so remote a location. The truth should not be too difficult to suppress─for now, at least.”

“Agreed, let us tell the others.”

Walking into the Solar, Minfilia turned to the summoner and said, “Words cannot express how glad I am to see you returned to us hale and whole. Needless to say, I am most eager to hear your account of which occurred in Coerthas--assuming you are ready to speak of it?” Celaena nodded. “Excellent, I shall summon the others at once.”

When the other Scions assembled, Celaena launched into her tale of the events in Coerthas and the Akh Afah Amphitheatre. When she finished, everyone seemed to consider her words carefully. It was Minfilia who broke the silence.

“Iceheart used her own body as a vessel for a primal’s soul?”

“Master Louisoix’s writings make no mention of such a possibility. Can we be sure this entity was a primal?” Y'shtola countered.

“As certain as we can be that Good King Moggle Mog XII was a primal, I should say. Both were ostensibly summoned.” Papalymo offered.

“Let’s not quibble over definitions,” Thancred said. “Of more concern is the implication that Iceheart retained her will even after she was possessed. We are talking about a mortal wielding the power of a primal!”

“It can’t possibly be that easy, can it? There must be some sort of sacrifice required. Or maybe she’s just special?” Yda added.

“What qualities this woman possesseth, I know not, but full sure am I that she was groomed for this role. Few are privy to the secrets of summoning, and but a single party standeth to profit from their dissemination.”

Replying to Urianger, Moenbryda said, “Well, I wouldn’t presume to comment on how the lass came to know about summoning, but I will say that what she summoned was a primal. The readings were the same, or near as damn it. Strange as it all sounds, it’s really no different from what you’ve faced before.”

“Then mayhap it is time we reexamined our previous encounters.” Y’shtola replied.

As the others planned to return to the other cities, Minfilia turned to Celaena and said, “About Iceheart’s final words to you… Hear...feel...think… Hydaelyn speaks to her as well. If Iceheart is blessed with the power of the Echo, she will doubtless have used it to further her goals. ...Or could it be that it was a revelation granted to her by the Echo which first set her on this path? She did say that the Ishgardians were blind to the truth.”

“That would certainly explain her cryptic words. You and I both know the Echo doesn’t lie.”

“Do you think she has knowledge of the origins of the Ishgardian-Dravanian war? It would do much to explain her unwavering conviction.”

“The Ishgardians are nothing if not devout. The teachings of Halone and guidance from the Archbishop have led them for the last one thousand years, though it wouldn’t be the first time someone has used a false narrative to control the masses. Lord Haurchefant has lent me a copy of the Enchiridion so that I may try to find some answers.” Celaena replied.

“Did not the Lady Iceheart implore thee to seek the Keeper of the Lake? And did she not imply that in so doing thou wouldst come to see with eyes unclouded?” Urianger offered.

“Midgardsormr was a king amongst kings who reigned for centuries on end… But he is dead, and his wisdom lost to the ages--unless the Ishgardians’ fears are well founded. It would seem we have yet another reason to stand watch over the Keeper of the Lake. For a mercy, we are well positioned to do so. Iceheart, Shiva, Ascians, and Midgardsormr. I shudder to think how they are all connected…” Minfilia said.

“It’s always the Ascians…” The summoner said.

“Let us hope that that’s not the case this time. Celaena, you are to take the day off and rest. Everyone else, you know what you have to do.”

Nodding, the group filed out of the Solar and Celaena flopped into a nearby chair, mulling over what Minfilia had said. Iceheart having the power of the Echo and seeing something that would lead her from the teachings of the church made all the sense in the world. If that was the case, what did she see? Was there a different truth than what was written in the Enchiridion? Was Ishgard as blind as she claimed? Though it was technically Ishgard’s problem and not hers, the questions still ate at her, and in order to attempt to answer some of those questions, she had some reading to do. So, she ordered a drink from the bar and set upon learning the teachings of Halone.

------------

The next few months were anything but dull. Eline Roaille had managed to escape and was subsequently captured, the Kobolds, Amalj’aa, and Ixal had all decided once again to summon Titan, Ifrit, and Garuda respectively, which left Celaena extremely busy. The summons this time were stronger than the last, which meant the beastmen were learning from their past transgressions. Fortunately, they proved little challenge to the summoner and she was able to defeat them once more. As she retired to her private room at the Rising Stones, a small luxury afforded to her for being well, her, the familiar ring of her linkpearl resonated in her ear. Pressing her finger to answer the call, the smooth timbre of Ser Aymeric responded. “Celaena, I do hope I haven’t caught you at a bad time. I had a rare moment of idleness and thought I would see how you are doing.”

“I’ve just returned to my room for the night, so you’ve actually caught me at the perfect time. I’ve been busy. How have you been?”

“I’ve been well. Things are boring and slow here in Ishgard, which is a good thing, because that means the horde have stayed their assault for the time being. Nor have we received word of the heretics attempting to perform a summoning.”

Chuckling, she replied, “That’s great. I wish I could say the same for the beastmen. I’ve had to deal with not only Ifrit, but Titan and Garuda as well.”

“You would think they had learned what a foolish endeavour that is. I assume they proved no match for you?”

“They were definitely stronger than the last time I fought them, but they’ve been dispatched and will hopefully stay that way for a while. Has there been any word from the astrologians? We’ve been keeping an eye on the Keeper of the Lake, but there have been no new developments.”

“Nothing as of late. If something happens though, you’ll be the first to know. I understand you have been learning the teachings of Halone?”

“Ser Aymeric, are you spying on me?”

His laugh resonated in her ear as he said, “Of course not my dear, but as you know, knights are horrible gossips. Lord Haurchefant gave you a copy of the Enchiridion, did he not?”

“He did, at my request. I was hoping I’d find some answers to Iceheart’s cryptic words.”

“And did you find any?”

Deciding to keep the theory of Iceheart having the Echo from him for the time being, she replied, “Nothing concrete, though I do quite like Halone. She’s a hell of a woman.”

“She is a warrior such as yourself. I daresay you two have a lot in common.”

“She is a god and I am a mere mortal.”

“A mere mortal that has been blessed by a god herself, lest you forget.”

“Ok, fair,” she replied, smiling. “I still don’t have an entire book written about me though.”

“Yet,” Aymeric countered, silently cursing as his door opened and one of his knights entered. “Excuse me a moment, Celaena.” She listened to the muffled exchange before he returned and said, “I’m afraid I must end our conversation here. Duty unfortunately calls.”

“Do take a rest at some point. It was nice to hear from you.”

“The pleasure is mine. Have a good evening Celaena.”

“And you too, Ser Aymeric.” Hearing the soft click as he ended the call, she smiled to herself. A good evening indeed…

------------------

A few weeks later, a frazzled astrologian burst into the lord commander’s office. “Apologies for the interruption my lord, but I bring grave news regarding the dragon star. Within the past few days it has grown brighter than we have seen it the past fifteen summers. We cannot help but surmise the resurrection of Midgardsormr is imminent. If you’ve the knights to spare, I beg you to dispatch them post haste to the Keeper of the Lake. The very fate of Ishgard could rest upon it!”

Aymeric’s jaw dropped slightly at his words before he composed himself. “While we do not have the knights to spare, we do have allies that may check upon the Keeper on our behalf. Do tell your fellow astrologians that it will be handled to the best of our abilities and we will inform you if there are any developments.”

“Thank you, my lord,” he replied, bowing and taking his leave.

Turning to his second in command, Aymeric said, “I’m afraid we’re going to have to call upon the aid of Celaena and the Scions once more.”

“Shall I ready the chocobos for Revenant’s Toll?” Lucia inquired.

“Were that I could accompany you, but no. I have far too much to do here and thus must ask you to travel there in my stead. Pray have her investigate the Keeper of the Lake and report her findings as soon as possible.”

“Of course my lord, I shall leave at once.”

“Thank you, Lucia,” he replied, watching her leave his office. Sighing, he massaged the bridge of his nose and prayed to Halone this was just a false alarm.

-------------

In the stifling heat of Ul’dah, Celaena carried a small crate of confiscated weapons to Yuyuhase. Her and the Crystal Braves had been attempting to trace the source of weapons wielded by some disgruntled Ala Mhigan refugees, and this meager amount was the fruit of their labor. As she dropped the crate at the lalafell’s feet, Alianne, like her, struggled to accept that was the entirety of the shipment required by the refugees, but Yuyuhase blamed it on Riol’s erroneous information. Upon her departure, Riol had emerged from the shadows and asked for a private audience with the summoner. He explained there should be more weapons based on his deciphering of financial transactions for the Crystal Braves. It was to assure no funding came from unsanctioned sources, but it seemed that was no longer being followed. Agreeing that something did not feel right, the man apologized for his outburst and left her standing in the Sapphire Avenue Exchange. Was someone bribing the Braves? Certainly the wealthy members of the Ul’dahn Syndicate had the means to do so, but they were on the same side, weren’t they? She turned to leave when her linkpearl rang and the familiar voice of the Scion’s receptionist echoed in her ear. “Celaena, can you hear me!? This is Tataru! Your presence is urgently requested at the Rising Stones! Please come and see me as soon as you are able!”

“I’ve just finished my business in Ul’dah. I’ll be right there.”

A bell later, Celaena made her way into the Rising Stones. “Thank you for coming so quickly, Celaena!” Tataru chirped. “We’ve a guest from Ishgard who wishes to speak with you--a most, um...determined lady by all indications… Our guest is with the antecedent in the solar at present. Let’s not keep them waiting any longer, shall we?”

Nodding, she followed the lalafell. It must be bad if Commander Lucia rushed here to ask for our aid… She thought.

“We have a guest from Ishgard who wishes to speak with you.” Minfilia said as the duo entered the solar. “I believe the two of you have met.”

“We have.” Lucia replied. “I had hoped to speak with Commander Leveilleur as well, but I cannot afford to wait any longer. The lord commander sent me hither to request your aid in a matter of grave import.”

“You see now why I had Tataru summon you.” Moenbryda said.

“Now that we are all assembled, perhaps you would be good enough to elaborate on the nature of the matter which brought you to us.” Minfilia added.

Nodding, Lucia continued. “The Observatorium’s astrologians have sounded the alarum. Last night, the dragon star burned with an intensity not seen in fifteen summers. Not since the Dravanians engaged the Empire in the Battle of Silvertear Skies.”

“The northern sky doth burn full bright upon the wyrm lord’s call. The red behemoth beckoneth, and flame consumeth all.” Urianger said.

“The old Coerthan rhyme, aye. The brightening of the dragon star is said to accompany the roar of a great wyrm. The astrologians believe it was Midgardsormr himself who cried out on this occasion.”

“After an absence of centuries, the king of kings did return to lead his kind against the might of Garlemald… Only to fall in his duel with the Agrius , proud flagship of the Garlean fleet. Devoid of life, his corpse remaineth entwined about the magitek monstrosity even unto this day.”

“Urianger has the right of it,” Minfilia said. “Whatever this alteration in the dragon star portends, the great wyrm has shown no sign of life. Tataru, have the Domans reported aught out of the ordinary?” The lalafell shook her head.

“Correct me if I’m wrong, but if Midgardsormr had roared, wouldn’t we have heard it here in Revenant’s Toll?” Moenbryda asked.

“Roar is but a figure of speech. Dravanians can communicate in ways beyond our ken. It is for this very reason we are forced to look for signs in the heavens. We cannot say with any confidence that a great wyrm roared at all, much less that it was Midgardsormr. Only by directly examining the Keeper of the Lake can we be certain. However, it will take too long to gain the Holy See’s approval to dispatch the Temple Knights. Therefore, Ser Aymeric would entrust this task to you. Do you accept?” Lucia asked.

“Iceheart told me to seek the Keeper of the Lake. I know not what she meant, but I will do it for that and to help a friend.”

“We knew you would not disappoint us. Now, if you would excuse me, I must return and assist the lord commander. We have precious little time to prepare.”

“To prepare for what, pray tell?” Minfilia inquired.

“When a great wyrm roars,  his brethren cannot choose but answer. We prepare for battle.”

Celaena frowned as she listened to Lucia’s words. Though she knew it wasn’t her fight, she couldn’t help but want to help her new found friends any way she could. Minfilia’s voice brought her out of her reverie. “Forgive me if I state aught which you already know, but I would ensure you understand the nature of your destination.” The antecedent recounted the history of how  Gaius van Baelsar attempted to subjugate Eorzea fifteen years prior with his force of airships until an unlikely ally in the form of Midgardsormr burst forth from Silvertear Lake and laid waste to the invading force along with his hoard of dragons. In his fight with the Agrius , the ships ceruleum engines had failed, and the resulting explosion had taken the great wyrm’s life along with the imperial ship. “In accordance with Ser Aymeric’s wishes, our Doman allies have been standing watch over the Keeper of the Lake. It would be wise to speak with them before investigating the wreckage yourself. Be careful, my friend. We know not what dangers await you within. Now then, let us not neglect our own tasks! There is much to be done, and precious little time to do it.”

“I’ll head there as soon as possible. I have some adventurer friends that have been wanting to check out the ruins. Fortunately, they’ve been staying close to Mor Dhona, so it shouldn’t be long for them to join me if they wish. I’ll contact them immediately.

“Thank you for your help.” Lucia said.

--------------

A short while later, Celaena stood with three other friends on the banks of the Silvertear Lake listening to the Doman watch talk about the Garleans, likely from Castrum Centri, he had seen filtering in and out of the ruins. He surmised they were salvaging something, though he knew not what it was. Given their supply lines had been cut after the success of Operation Archon, they were likely desperate for spare parts and other equipment.

“Thank you for that information,” Celaena said. “I have orders to inspect the ruins and see if there’s any validity to Ishgard’s claims.”

“So, it’s true then? The Ishgardians honestly fear that the wyrm may rise again? Well, from here that seems rather unlikely… but if it’s assurances they want, you’ve no choice but to inspect the corpse in its entirety. Easier said than done, given the creatures which inhabit the wreckage--and the aforementioned Garleans who won’t take kindly to your presence. They’re sure to fire on an airship, so I’d advise a more stealthy approach. Take this boat and your comrades to the base of the Agrius, the climb to the top. That’s the only viable approach, I’d say.”

“If the Domans say stealth is the best approach, then we will do as you say. A few Garleans shouldn’t prove much of a challenge, but I’d rather we take them by surprise than us by them. Thank you for the warning. We’ll be going now,” Celaena replied.

“Good luck.”

Rowing the small boat towards the wreckage, her friend said, “You’re really doing all this for Ishgard? The ones who turned their back on everyone when they should have stood united with the rest of Eorzea?”

“Yes, I am. Their past transgressions aside, the fact they even thought to seek outside help is a step, albeit a small one, in the right direction. Besides, they’re not all bad. I daresay I consider some of them friends, and we both know I have a hard time turning my back on those, especially if I am able to help.”

“A valid point, but don’t let them take advantage of your kindness. You’re the Warrior of Light, not the Doormat of Light.”

“Then let us hope their concerns are for naught and we can return to them with good news,” Celaena retorted. “We’re here. Prepare your things and be ready for a fight at any moment’s notice.”

“Now that’s something I can support one hundred percent.” The adventurer replied, grinning.

Making their final preparations, the quartet raced up the wreckage, laying waste to both fiend and Garlean. A run in with a magitek gunship had left Celaena with a nasty burn on her left leg that would need further treatment from a chirurgeon once she returned. Thanking the white mage for patching her up, the group made the final climb to the top. The skull of the dragon’s corpse was even larger than she’d imagined, and at its base lie two smaller dragons that appeared to be dead. Cautiously, the summoner walked forward and took in her surroundings when a voice thundered from overhead, “Who treadeth now upon my bones and waketh me from slumber sweet?”

“Did the corpse just talk?” The paladin asked.

As if on cue, the dead wyrm’s eye socket flared with red light and released a ball of aether which took the form of Midgardsormr’s head. “Thou hast forgotten the face of thy lord. Remember, mortal, and fear me.”

“Everyone on your guard!” Celaena yelled. “We’re not leaving here without a fight it would seem.”

Taking point, the paladin charged forward and engaged the wyrm, bearing the brunt of the assault while Celaena and the others supported him from behind. Dodging onslaught after onslaught, the group was making headway when one of the smaller dragons stirred to life,  an aether tether connecting him to the great wyrm. “Kill the small one!” She bellowed. “He’s invulnerable until we take it down!”

And so they fought, beating the lesser dragon down little by little until Celaena noticed the Father of Dragons was gathering his aether. If he was able to unleash that power, they’d all be done for. A sharp squawk overhead made her flick her eyes upward. A ruddy astrea had wandered into the area and was attempting to fly away, only to struggle under the weight of the hunk of magitek it refused to relinquish. Celaena had been in the Ironworks enough times to know exactly what that bird was trying to haul away--a field generator. Thanking both Halone personally and the rest of the Twelve, she instructed her Egi to switch to attacking the bird, and yelled at her comrades to do the same. “Everyone to me!” She cried, once the bird had fallen, reaching for the switch that would turn on the field generator. Fortunately, the machine whirred to life and enveloped the group in a protective dome not but a second before they were blinded by a light of blue. After it had faded, she turned to the group and said, “Let’s kill these bloody dragons and go home.”

Once they had slaughtered the first dragon, Midgardsormr had tried the same trick with the other. With the second dispatched as well, the group laid into his aether form and watched as it dissipated upon its defeat. Their breath heaving, they celebrated briefly before the voice once again thundered overhead. “So you too possess the Echo. That is why the phantom form cannot win you over. In that case, it is Hydaelyn’s will that we shall converse. Speak, mortal, and I shall listen.”

“You three, go.” Celaena commanded.

“But…”

“I will meet you back at the boat. This is what I came here for. Pray do not argue with me.”

“Don’t you die on us,” the white mage said, following the other two back down the wreckage.

Nodding, she turned back toward the dragon’s corpse. “Great wyrm Midgardsormr, I have come at the behest of the people of Ishgard. They say the dragon star burns bright and are concerned it is your roar that is calling the Horde to battle.”

“This is true, the star in the northern skies burns with the valorous roar of my kin. This is the battlecry, calling to advance. They have heard the song. Ishgard, home of the people who have forgotten fear and have sinned, will burn.”

“Why!?” Celaena demanded, agitated.

“This is retribution! The people of Ishgard are blind to their sins. Their sins demand battle without end. We do not forget. We do not forgive.”

She shook her head. “Surely you are able to put an end to this war. Why must both the people of Ishgard and yours continue to suffer after a millenia?”

“You bid me to stop the war? You might possess the Echo, but you're just a mortal. I cannot grant such a wish. I have awoken to answer for it was not me who roared, but one of my seven children. As Ishgard wants not to repent, my child and their people will not delay the retribution. The land shall burn, their people shall die, and justice will be done.”

Furious, Celaena felt the power grow within her and her body became enveloped in light.

“This light... You protect her! Hydaelyn, you bestow more power on this one, who already bears the Echo! Could it be, you think her special?” The great wyrm paused. “Hydaelyn, you wish me to grant her power? I remember… and I consent. Very well, I shall test you!”

Celaena gasped as an orange beam of light pierced her breast. Her vision faded and she once again found herself standing before the six Crystals of Light. Watching in horror, they winked out one by one, taking a piece of her with them. When she opened her eyes, she found herself back on the Agrius. “What did you do to me?”

“The Dragonclaw has pierced you. By my power, it now locks away the blessing of light given by Hydaelyn. Thus the light has also cast a shadow. Perhaps, even without my claw the light would grow dim one day. I made a promise to Her, and so I shall not take your life. However, you are but a mortal. Like the people of Ishgard, you're capable of foolish crimes. Do not think I spare your life for nothing.”

“What do you want from me?” She demanded, watching as a tiny dragon materialized before her.

“This is my apparition, my avatar. From now on, it will go with you. I shall watch… listen… and wait.  I will see what you can accomplish without the Blessing of Light. Make your destiny, special one. Break free from my claw with your own strength. If you truly have special power, you can end the battle of judgement. This will be your trial. Overcome the trial then and bring the will of Light to the people. However, this will not be an easy path. Soon my kin will do battle with humanity. The roar of my children has already been heard in all the land. The Dragonsong heralds a beginning... and an end.”

The light from the corpse’s eyes faded and the tiny dragon disappeared in a flash of aether. Clutching her hand to her chest, she tried to feel for the light within, but it was gone. No, not gone . She thought. The dragon merely locked it behind a wall and all she had to do was tear it down. Steeling her resolve, she took one last glance at the corpse and made her way to the boat where her friends awaited.

“Thank the Twelve you’re alright!” Her friend exclaimed. “The dragon didn’t hurt you, did he?”

“I’m fine, but Ishgard isn’t. Dravanian attack is imminent and I must warn them immediately. You three take the boat back while I teleport to Revenant’s Toll. Thank you again for all your help.”

“You call on us anytime you need help, you hear?”

“Will do.” Celaena replied, disappearing in a flash of light.

--------

Upon entering the Solar, she found a very relieved Alphinaud standing with Urianger. “Praise the Twelve you are hale and whole! I came as soon as Minfilia informed me of Ser Aymeric’s request. You have completed your investigation of the Keeper of the Lake, I take it? Then I would hear your report.”

“After climbing his corpse, I fought and then spoke with Midgardsormr. He said that it was not he who roared, but one of his children. A child bent on vengeance for the sins of Ishgard. In his words, they will burn. And once again, I was told the Ishgardians are blind to the truth and their inability to repent is the reason the battle will never cease.”

“You...conversed with Midgardsormr?” Alphinaud said, incredulously. “I swear, were anyone else to make such a claim, I would regard it with considerable skepticism.”

“Are we to understand that the wyrm lord did not perish, but has in sooth lain in dormant these past fifteen years?” Minfilia questioned.

“Less a resurrection and more a rejuvenation for he who dwelleth in eternity, years passing as moments…” Urianger mused.

“Though his words were ambiguous at times, one statement left little room for interpretation: Ishgard will burn. Clearly, an attack is imminent. We must share this information with Ser Aymeric immediately. However, we dare not divulge your conversation with Midgardsormr in its entirety. To even acknowledge that you heard the voice of a Dravanian is a grave but necessary risk. Lest we forget, men have been executed as heretics for declaring as much. For your own protection, and for the sake of our tenuous relations with Ishgard, the truth cannot leave this room. As for how we shall present our revelation to Ser Aymeric’s emissary, leave that to me. Pray remain here for now,” Alphinaud stated.

After Alphinaud and Urianger left, Minfilia turned to her friend and said, “Is there something you’re not telling us, Celaena? You seem…different, somehow. ‘Tis almost as if you’re missing something...something important.”

“It’s gone,” Celaena replied simply. “Midgardsormr shot me with a beam of light and somehow blocked Hydaelyn’s blessing. He said it is a test, and will be watching to see how I fare without Her gift.”

“Twelve forfend! He stripped you of the blessing of Light!? Are you alright? How do you feel!?”

“Empty...but I’m alright.”

“I see...it is a relief to hear you are otherwise unharmed. It beggars belief that any being could possess the power to deprive you of Her blessing. Hmmm...Midgardsormr made mention of a covenant, did he not?”

“He said he remembers, and he consents. Something must have happened between them long ago.”

“One of the ancient myths of Silvertear Falls states that when the waters came into existence, so too did the great wyrm. Althyk and Nymeia, Brother Time and Sister Fate, decreed that Midgardsormr ever watch over the source from which all water--and magic--was said to flow. I wonder… What if this was the covenant of which he spoke, and ‘twas not the gods with whom he treated, but Hydaelyn herself? Well, if he is watching over you as he claimed, mayhap you will have the opportunity to ask. Let us keep this matter to ourselves. I do not wish to burden our friends needlessly.”

“Thank you, Minfilia,” Celaena said.

Her friend departed the Solar, leaving the summoner alone. Appearing before her, the diminutive dragon said, “Are you a pawn, or a master of your fate? My fang has merely removed the protection of Light. No harm came to your body. Your own power is still well within you. Will you carve your own path as a mere mortal? I'll keep watch over you.”

Sighing, she watched the dragon dissipate once more and exited the Solar herself where she found Alphinaud and Minfilia engaged in conversation with Lucia. “My friend!” The woman exclaimed. “I can scarce believe it! You confronted the wyrm lord and lived to tell the tale! I give thanks to Halone for your preservation. It is our sole cause for gladness. Your encounter with the Keeper of the Lake served to confirm our fears. A great wyrm has roared, and it makes little difference if it was one of the two in Eorzea or any other… The Dravanians are coming.”

“I am told that Ishgard has magical defenses against Dravanian attack, though I am not privy to their exact nature. Will they be enough to repel a massive force?” Alphinaud asked.

“Ishgard has weathered countless assaults over centuries. This will be no different. And now that you have confirmed the threat, none can ignore the lord commander’s calls for the wards to be strengthened. I dare not presume to speak for him, but I expect the lord commander would sing your praises.”

“Whether he sings or not, do give Ser Aymeric my regards.” Celaena said.

Lucia nodded and said, “I must away, but we shall meet again soon.”

After the second commander had left, Alphinaud said, “Countless assaults weathered...and this will be no different. Why am I not convinced? The Ishgardians have warred with the Dravanians for centuries--nay, nearly one thousand years. In all that time, not once have their enemies breached their defenses and entered the city proper. Yet regardless of how strong these magical wards may be, I nevertheless fear that the Ishgardians are underestimating the gravity of the situation. Though it was not Midgardsormr who roared, a call to arms by one of the first brood cannot be ignored… Until such time as they choose to request our aid, however, we can do naught but observe the situation at a distance, and pray that our fears are unfounded.”

“Though it pains me we are not able to help, this is not our fight. As you said, we can only pray that our friends make it through this ordeal unscathed and have the foresight to request our aid should they need it.” Celaena replied.

------------

“Lord Commander!” Lucia exclaimed, bursting into his office. “I bring news from Mor Dhona!”

“Judging by the look on your face, I daresay it isn’t the good variety.”

“Our worst fears have been confirmed; the Dravanians are coming. Celaena confronted the great wyrm atop the Agrius, and, in their battle, he told her it was not he who roared, but one of his children.”

Aymeric’s eyes widened. “The dragon…spoke with her?”

“Aye. Well, his aetherial shade did. It would seem he has but laid dormant these past fifteen years.”

“If it was one of his children that sent the call for battle, that means an attack from the First Brood. Halone forfend… And what of Celaena? Is she alright?”

“I noticed what appeared to be a burn on her leg, but she was otherwise hale and whole.”

“Thank Halone for that. I must inform the Archbishop immediately. Consult with Handeloup and form a plan to reinforce the magical wards as well as bolster our defenses along the outer walls and the Steps of Faith. I want everyone on their guard. The Dravanians could attack at any moment. Though I will have to mention it to the Archbishop, do keep our source of information quiet; we wouldn’t want to create any unnecessary trouble for Celaena or the Scions.”

“Yes, my lord,” Lucia said, departing his office.

Letting out a breath he hadn’t realized he’s been holding, Aymeric gathered his thoughts, made his way out of the Congregation and up to the Vault. “Forgive the intrusion, but I must speak with the Archbishop immediately,” he said to the priest standing guard. “It is concerning an imminent Dravanian attack.”

“Wait here please,” the priest instructed, retreating inside. After what felt like an eternity, he emerged and said, “The Archbishop has agreed to see you. You will find him in the meeting room.”

“Thank you very much,” Aymeric replied, pushing his way into the building and walking to the usual room at the back of the basilica. “Your Eminence,” he said, bowing. “Apologies for not sending word ahead of time, but I bring grave news of the utmost import and it could not wait.”

“A Dravanian attack, I am told.”

He looked at the elderly man and the flaxen haired knight standing at his side and nodded. “Not just any attack, but one from the First Brood.”

“The First Brood? And how did you come upon this knowledge?”

Choosing his words carefully, Aymeric said, “I asked Celaena, I mean, the Warrior of Light, to investigate the Keeper of the Lake on our behalf. There, she was confronted by the wyrm lord, and, in their battle, he claimed that it was not he, but one of his children that had sent the call to arms.”

“I see…” Thordan said, turning to his left. “Ser Zephirin, do fetch the rest of the Ward. I believe this is something they need to hear.”

“At once, your Eminence.”

Shortly after, the rest of the Heavens’ Ward piled into the room and took their seats around the large, wooden table. “This had better be good…” Grinnaux grumbled under his breath.

“Ser Aymeric, if you would be so kind as to tell everyone what you told me.”

“Yes, your Eminence. Not long ago, I received word from one of our astrologians that the dragon star was burning extraordinarily bright and that it portended the return of Midgardsormr. Their concern was so great that I asked the Warrior of Light to investigate the ruins of the Agrius on Ishgard’s behalf. When she reached the top, she was confronted by the great wyrm and wound up doing battle with him. In their fight, he told her it was one of his children who roared.  We are facing an imminent attack from one of the First Brood.”

“So, you just sent your hero up to a dragon’s corpse to have a chat and he answered her questions just like that? Need I remind you what we call those who consort with Dravanians?”

“I asked her to go not knowing what she would find, but hoping our astrologian’s claims were unfounded. And, need I remind you , that we all yell things at the dragons in the heat of battle, Ser Charibert. Given the nature of the reply, we are fortunate Halone saw fit to have them respond this time.”

“But Midgardsormr died fifteen years ago,” Ser Adelphel interrupted. “How is it she was able to do battle with him?”

“It would seem that though his body decays, his aetherial essence remains. He was able to coalesce it into a form that was capable of combat.”

“So, the Warrior of Light risks her life for Ishgard once more. It appears we are in her debt yet again,” the Archbishop interjected. “If it is an attack from the First Brood we are to expect, then that leaves only two possible suspects.”

“Nidhogg rose up twenty years ago and laid waste to the town of Ferndale before being dispatched by the Azure Dragoon. It is likely he who has sent the call,” Ser Zephirin said.

“Agreed. Ishgard must prepare for battle. Ser Zephirin, you know what to do.” Thordan said to the archimandrite. “Ser Aymeric, consult with Ser Estinien and see if he has sensed anything out of the ordinary from the Eye. And do give the Warrior of Light our thanks.”

“As you command, your Eminence,” Aymeric replied, bowing and taking his leave. Exiting the Vault, he glanced toward the heavens. It would not be long before they were littered with the beating of leathery wings and the sounds of fang and claw tearing through flesh. He sent a small prayer to Halone, thanking her for bringing Celaena into his life and the early warning she was able to provide. Descending the steps, he made for the nearest aetheryte shard that would take him back to the Congregation and his grumpy friend that had become the Azure Dragoon.

---------

Kneeling before the crystal that served as a monument to Thaliak, the guardian deity of Sharlayan, Celaena bowed her head and placed a nymeia lily at its base. It had been several weeks since she had tangled with Midgardsormr at the top of the Agrius and subsequently been stripped of the blessing of Light, and much and more had transpired in that time. Moenbryda’s tests with white auracite in trapping and destroying an Ascian soul had been successful, but came at a great cost. A paragon named Nabriales had managed to steal into the Rising Stones  with the intention of claiming Tupsimati so he could bring about what he called the Great Rejoining. Celaena had arrived in the solar only to see he had claimed the relic and Minfilia along with him. Forced into the rift to rescue her friend, she was able to trap him within the white auracite upon her return to the solar. Even with the incredible aether channeling abilities of Tupsimati and her own aether, without the blessing of Light it simply wasn’t enough to destroy the Ascian soul and Moenbryda had offered her own life force to see the deed was done. Breaking the silence, Minfilia said, “Forgive me Moenbryda. Had I been quicker or wiser… But I was not, and you paid the price. But you would not suffer us to wallow in our sorrow, would you? You would tell us to...pick ourselves up and get on with it. And so we shall. We shall defend this realm and her people to the last.”

Angrily, Celaena listened to the antecedent’s words. Though the scholar had given her life willingly, she couldn’t help but feel like this was her fault; that if she still had the light within her Moenbryda would still be alive. As if sensing her thoughts, Midgardsormr’s tiny visage appeared over her shoulder.

“Life for death. A fair exchange,” he drawled. “Other bargains will be struck.” Before she could ask what he meant by it, the dragon disappeared once more. The air heavy with grief, the Scions left the monument to return to the Rising Stones.

--------

Aymeric winced as the chirurgeon tended to his bruised ribs. Just as the wyrm lord had predicted, the Horde had descended upon Coerthas. “Lord Commander,” one of his knights said, approaching him. “We’ve received word from the Vault. The Archbishop requests your presence as soon as possible. It would seem he wants a personal report on the Dravanian attack.”

“Thank you, I will go there immediately.”

“But sir, I’m not finished healing your wounds,” the chirurgeon objected.

“I am able to walk and talk, that is enough. Do tend to those with more serious injuries than I,” Aymeric replied.

“As you wish, Lord Commander.”

A short time later, Aymeric once again found himself in the presence of the Archbishop and the Archimandrite. “How fared the assault on Coerthas?” The old man asked.

“Though we were successful in repelling the horde, it came at great loss of life. Ishgard will not weather another attack such as that. We simply do not have the numbers.”

“If that is the case, what do you propose we do?”

“Allow me to reach out to the Crystal Braves, your Eminence. As you well know, they along with the Scions of the Seventh Dawn have already assisted Ishgard more than once. Their reinforcements would do much to bolster our ranks.”

“And should they refuse?”

“The Scions also have strong ties with the Eorzean Alliance. Though Ishgard has had strained relations with them in the past, we can only but ask the Scions to plead our case to them on our behalf. Fortunately, we have the Warrior of Light this time. It is my hope that her ability to rally people to a cause will work in our favor.”

The Archbishop regarded his words carefully. After contemplating them, he said, “Though it hurts my pride to say this, I agree with your logic. For the first time in years, Ishgard shall voluntarily seek aid from foreign powers. You have the Holy See’s blessing to do as you see fit for the protection of our great nation.”

“Thank you, your Eminence,” Aymeric replied, bowing. “I shall dispatch an emissary to Revenant’s Toll at once.”

After the lord commander had left, Ser Zephirin turned to the Archbishop and said, “Forgive me your Eminence, but do you think it wise to involve outsiders in Ishgardian affairs?”

“As Ser Aymeric pointed out, we simply do not have the numbers to repel another attack. Ishgard must not fall. Our magical wards still hold, so it is not as if they will be in the city proper. I’m also curious to see what the Warrior of Light will do.”

“She has been quite meddlesome as of late. I doubt she will ignore our request for aid,” the Archimandrite said.

“Aye. And that very nature of hers is something we can use to our advantage.”

----------

Celaena exited the solar of the Rising Stones and scanned the area for Yda. Minfilia was concerned as the pugilist hadn’t been her perky self since Moenbryda passed and had asked the summoner to check up on her. As she approached her friend, Yda stood up and said, “Hey, It’s Celaena! Great!” Followed by a leap in the air. Her shoulders quickly slumped as she continued, “...Oh, it’s no use. I’m trying to stay positive, but... it’s just hard you know...? Thing is, I know Moen would tell me off if she saw me moping around like this… Which is why I decided to cheer myself up by getting her a special flower. I placed an order for a moon daisy with Rowena a little while ago and it’s ready to be picked up.”

Celaena listened as she detailed how she found Rowena difficult for her to deal with even on the best of days and, as these were certainly not the best, asked her to pick up the flower in her stead. She agreed and said she would meet her at the mark of Thaliak in Rathefrost.  

A short time later, daisy in hand, she mounted her chocobo and rode the short distance to meet with Yda. Celaena couldn’t help but chuckle as she launched into a tirade about how Rowena always made a comment about her mask and how she needed to change it to something more fashionable. “She said as much to me as well. ‘Tell that Yda lass I’ve a wide selection o’ headwear in stock if she ever decides to replace that dowdy ol’ mask o’ hers.’”

“So annoying! Uh, what I mean to say is that I really appreciate you doing this for me. Let’s see it!”

Celaena handed over the flower and stood back to give her friend some space. Though the air at the Rising Stones still hung heavy with grief, she had been feeling uneasy all day and couldn’t figure out why. It was as if something catastrophic was about to happen. An approaching rumbling sent her eyes skyward and Midgardsormr deigned to show himself once more. “The song rises to a crescendo,” he said, just before the first dragon screech tore through the heavens and a group of lesser dragons soared overhead.

“Gods no…”

“Is that what I think it is?...” Yda asked.  

Before she could answer, her linkpearl rang in her ear. “Hello!? Can you hear me!?” Alphinaud’s frantic voice asked.

“I hear you Alphinaud, what is it?”

“We have received grave tidings from Ishgard. Pray return to the RIsing Stones at once.”

“I believe I just bore witness to the cause of those tidings… I’ll be right there.” Turning to Yda, she said, “Ishgard is in trouble. We must return at once.”

Nodding, Yda took off with the summoner not far behind her.

--------

Breathing heavily, she burst into the solar and marched up to Alphinaud. ”My apologies for the interruption… I was deeply saddened to learn of Moenbryda’s passing. Her loss will be sorely felt… Alas, recent developments in Ishgard leave us little time to mourn. The envoy from Coerthas will soon arrive, and we must hasten to hear her report.”

“The assault on Ishgard has begun. Yda and I saw several dragons wending their way through the sky in the direction of the city.”

Alphinaud listened to her words and his eyes flicked toward the door. “...The envoy is here.”

Striding through the door, Lucia made her way into the room. “I thank you for receiving me at such short notice. Time is of the essence, so I would forgo the usual pleasantries, if I may.”

“Certainly. You come with news of the Dravanians?” Minfilia asked.

“Aye. The dragons have begun their attack in earnest. The first wave reached the central highlands a short while ago, and battle was joined soon thereafter. Ser Aymeric himself sallied forth with a contingent of Temple Knights and several companies of the noble houses’ finest. Though the beasts were ultimately forced into retreat, our victory--if such it may be called-- came at the cost of many of our own. Too many. We will not withstand a second wave should the Dravanians renew their assault.”

“You paint a grim picture my lady,” Alphinaud said. “It is reinforcements you seek, then?”

“We do. Though it pricks our pride, it is plain we cannot protect Ishgard with our ranks thus thinned by the Horde. Ser Aymeric would meet with you to discuss the possibility of enlisting your aid.”

“Very well, I shall depart for Coerthas at once. I must warn you, however, that the involvement of the Crystal Braves is by no means assured--our commitment to quelling the unrest in Ul’dah must take precedence.”

“It is with such contingencies in mind that I must make another request. The Scions of the Seventh Dawn are known for sharing close ties with all three of the Grand Companies of Eorzea. Would you consent to plead our case to their leaders?”

“Hm. Though I will gladly appeal to the Grand Companies on your behalf, I dare not promise a favorable reply…” Minfilia replied.

“You need say no more. Considering our past dealings with the Eorzean Alliance, I can well imagine how our plea will be received. But the fate of Ishgard hangs in the balance. We must explore every avenue still open to us--no matter how unpromising.”

“I see. Very well, I shall send envoys to each of the allied nations, and have them present your request directly to the heads of the Grand Companies. In the event that your plea does receive a favorable answer, know that any support is to be conditional. Demands will be made of Ishgard…”

“That is only to be expected. Rest assured that I speak with Ser Aymeric’s authority in this matter, and that our actions are fully sanctioned by the Holy See. ...Which brings me to my final request: a personal appeal to you, Warrior of Light. The lord commander much desires to speak with you, regardless of your fellows’ involvement. You faced Midgardsormr and survived. Anything you can share of your experience may yield us an advantage over our foe.”

“You have my magicks regardless, but I’d be more than happy to speak with him.” Celaena replied.

“Thank you. You wear the mantle of hero well.”

“‘Twould seem the road leads us both to Camp Dragonhead. Seek me out when you arrive, Celaena,” Alphinaud said.

“I have a few things to prepare, but I shall join you anon,” She said.

“I too must hasten back to Ishgard and inform Ser Aymeric of the good news. He will join you as soon as he is able,” Lucia said.

With that, they exited the solar and made their preparations for the journey into Coerthas.

--------

As she made her way into Camp Dragonhead, Celaena could feel the tension in the air. Many of the knights of House Fortemps were clustered in small groups, whispering to each other. Dragons aside, she couldn’t help but wonder if something else was amiss. Spotting her friend, she approached him and he said, “It seems I was the swifter Celaena. You too, however, have arrived with time to spare, for our host has yet to make an appearance.”

“That’s good. Something else is going on here. I’ve never seen the knights so tense.”

“The murmurings about camp tell of some manner of trouble at the Gates of Judgement… In the lord commander’s absence, I suggest we visit the place, and find out what is afoot.”

“Agreed. Let us away.”

Walking the short distance to the gates, Celaena approached a clearly unhappy Temple Knight and said, “Excuse me, but I am told there is some sort of trouble here. Would you be so kind as to tell me what it is?”

“Heretic scum!” He spat. “How dare they meddle with our divine protections. I shall rid our nation of their blasphemy even if it means cutting them down one by one!”

“I see.. Thank you,” she said, walking to another knight who, by the way he was trembling, appeared to be quite green. “Are you alright? Did the heretics do something to the gates?”

Seemingly not hearing her, the knight rambled to himself. “W-We need not fret overmuch--there are yet several layers of arcane protection that shield the city from invasion. Mother will be fine…”

Leaving him to his thoughts, she decided to approach one more Temple Knight with hopes of getting a straight answer. “Excuse me, is something amiss with the wards protecting the gates?”

“The Gates of Judgement are much more than mere doors--they are the outermost layer of Ishgard’s magical wards. If our first line of defense can be so easily shattered…”

Heretics, magical wards… there could only be one person capable of such treachery. “When I laid eyes upon Lady Iceheart... I felt the marrow freeze within my bones,” Celaena heard a nearby knight mutter.

Walking back to Alphinaud, he said, “‘Twould seem the heretics struck the first--and most telling--blow against Ishgard…”

“To dispel their arcane protection just like that… Why?”

“Scions!” A voice interrupted. “We expected you at Camp Dragonhead!”

“My apologies. We chanced to hear there had been trouble at the gates, and thought it prudent to investigate the cause,” Alphinaud replied.

“Then you have learned of the heretics’ treachery. Lady Iceheart led a force of her followers against our defenders, and came close enough to dispel the first of our wards,” Lucia stated. “But let us speak more of this at the camp. Ser Aymeric awaits you…”

“...Lady Iceheart has grown bold indeed if she would risk direct action against the city. Come, let us do as we were bid, and return to Camp Dragonhead. Lord Haurchefant will know where Ser Aymeric means to receive us,” the boy said.

“I’m going to guess the intercessory, but I’ll ask anyway. Lord Haurchefant will probably chase me down if I don’t at least say hi.”

Walking the short distance back to the camp, Celaena marched up to Haurchefant’s desk and was greeted with his customary warmth.

“'Tis reassuring indeed to behold the countenance of a friend when one's homeland teeters upon the very brink of disaster! Though a single misstep could send us plunging into the abyss, your heroic presence stokes the flames of courage within my heart! Ah, but you did not come to Dragonhead to listen to my prattling! The lord commander has arrived, and would treat with you in the intercessory.”

“Thank you, Lord Haurchefant. Let us hope the only thing plunging into the abyss is the dragons after we have defeated them,” Celaena said.

“We? Does that mean you’ll be assisting us?”

“Of course it does. I cannot very well sit idle when my friends need me now can I?”

“You truly are a remarkable woman and an inspiration to so many, myself included. Now go, don’t keep the lord commander waiting,” Haurchefant said with a smile.

Exiting the building Alphinaud and the summoner traversed the short distance to the entrance of the intercessory. “Ishgard's future hangs in the balance. If the city's salvation rests on our assistance, I cannot well withhold it. Even so, I mean to make Ser Aymeric sweat for his reinforcements. On this occasion, feigned disinterest may serve the cause of Eorzean unity better than naked philanthropy. Come! Let us find out what concessions the Holy See is willing to make…” the boy said.

“Whatever you do, try not to insult the man this time,” The summoner said pointedly.

“I thank you for coming with such haste...and apologize for my absence. Suffice it to say, Lady Iceheart and her heretics have much to answer for…” Aymeric said as they entered the room.

“Yes...we are but recently returned from the Gates of Judgement ourselves. Given the circumstances, we quite understand if you would prefer to postpone our appointed audience.”

“On the contrary, Master Alphinaud─I think it more important than ever that this meeting take place. Rest assured, I shall return to my post on Ishgard's walls the moment our business is concluded. Before we move on to the subject of reinforcements, however, I would introduce you to a close friend and stalwart ally. Estinien!”

Celaena flicked her eyes to the door as it creaked open, Lord Haurchefant entering followed by a man clad in black armor. Her mouth fell agape as her eyes traveled from his toes to the tips of the horns adoring his helmet.. She had seen her fair share of plate mail, but this clung to his lean form like a second skin. Whoever had forged it was clearly a master at their craft. She caught the ghost of a smirk on his lips, the only part of his face she could discern, before beholding the wicked looking lance strapped to his back.

“May I present to you Ishgard's Azure Dragoon,” Aymeric said.

“An impressive title...though I confess, I know precious little of the order of dragoons,” Alphinaud said.

“They are formidable warriors all. Yet even among such masters of the lance, Estinien is without equal. He, out of all the warriors of Ishgard, was chosen to wield the power of dragons, and may thus contend with any Dravanian.”

“So, you are the adventurer of whom they spoke…” the dragoon’s smooth voice said. “I see now why my blood fair sang in anticipation of our meeting.”

“...Well, now that we have all been introduced, let us proceed to the matter at hand. I would share with you what we have learned of Iceheart's design, as confessed by the heretics taken captive after the assault on the gates. 'Twould seem that Lady Iceheart and the Dravanians share a common goal─the reclamation of Nidhogg's stolen eye,” the lord commander continued.

“Are we talking literal eye, or metaphorical eye?” Celaena asked.

“Nidhogg… One of the seven great wyrms. His name features prominently in your nation's history. Though once defeated by the hero Haldrath, the beast is said to have terrorized Coerthas since Ishgard's founding,” Alphinaud interrupted.

“Aye, many are the scars our walls bear from Nidhogg's relentless efforts to raze the city. The trophy Haldrath plucked from the bested wyrm's skull─known simply as “the Eye”─is a treasured relic of Ishgard, and one possessed of untold power. Should it ever be returned to Nidhogg, the dread creature would be restored to the height of his strength. ...And then no wall or ward we could erect would be stout enough to deny him.”

“So, literal eye then,” the summoner said, more to herself than anyone in particular.

“My vengeful son hath waged war against Ishgard for a thousand years. No mortal mind could comprehend the depths of his rancor,” Midgardsormr’s voice rang inside her head.

“The Eye itself is secreted deep within the Vault. It is kept under heavy guard─surrounded at all times by men and women who have proven their loyalty to the Holy See,” Aymeric continued. “But though stout walls and sharp blades may suffice to discourage the heretics, the dragons are another matter. There are individuals within the Dravanian Horde whom an entire company of knights would labor to repel─to say nothing of Nidhogg himself.”

“Nor does age rob them of their strength,” Estinien chimed in. “Through the endless march of years, the dragons endure. Patient. Calculating. Inexorable. You must understand: these creatures do not share our perception of time. And that is especially true of the great wyrms─they who spend centuries in slumber only to wake and resume their campaign as if mere hours had passed.”

“My battle with Midgardsormr proved as much. Though he appeared a hulking corpse, his essence still remained, biding his time until he could rise again,” Celaena said.

“It has been twenty years since Nidhogg last darkened our skies. Twenty years for him to gather his strength, and for us to bolster our defenses... And now, just as he seems primed to return, the heretics strike at the gates…” Aymeric said darkly.

“...You believe that Lady Iceheart is in league with the creature, then?” Alphinaud asked.

“Of that, we cannot be certain. Though we know the heretics covet the Eye, we have been unable to determine their plans for it. Such questions aside, we must needs address the ragged hole their mistress has seen fit to rend in Ishgard's protections. 'Tis a weakness the Dravanians are not like to leave untested.”

“So it would seem... You have described your plight in admirable detail, Lord Commander. Yet I cannot help but wonder at your candor. Why share such sensitive information with us?”

“I shall speak plain. Ishgard has need of allies, and I would have you bolster our front lines in readiness for the coming battle against the dragons,” the lord commander stated.

“This much I expected. Unlike our arrangement concerning the Keeper of the Lake, however, only you stand to benefit from our assistance in this matter. I fail to see why we should intervene in a conflict which concerns only Ishgard and Dravania. When the Eorzean Alliance requested Ishgard's assistance during Operation Archon, you refused us. Does it not seem grossly unjust to demand that we now risk our lives in your private war?”

“I make no attempt to defend my country's conduct. I only ask that you consider what would follow were Ishgard to fall. Having razed our city to the ground, the Horde would have little cause to linger, and most would return to their lairs in Dravania. Soon thereafter, the ruins of Coerthas would be buried in snow, and the land would become the sole province of beasts and beastmen. ...Until the Garleans' arrival, that is─for you may be certain that the Empire would not hesitate to claim Coerthas. They would not even have to draw steel.”

Celaena had to hide her smirk with her hand. Though Alphinaud had promised to make him sweat for assistance, it would seem the boy was the one sweating. She locked eyes with the lord commander and let him know she approved of his retort. The man was gifted with a silver tongue, and well, he had a point.

Alphinaud’s jaw dropped. “An imperial province sharing a border with Mor Dhona...? Seven hells…” He cleared his throat. “Very well─we will assist you in repelling the dragons. The roar of a great wyrm may have shaken the firmament, but we of Eorzea will not abandon our Ishgardian brothers to face the coming Horde alone.”

“Nor did I ever think you would,” Aymeric said, smiling. “Now, upon the matter of the roar─”

“Allow me, Ser Aymeric,” Estinien said. “Through the power of the Eye, I have become the vessel of Nidhogg's strength. His essence has stolen into my very blood.”

“What!?” Celaena asked, incredulously.

“Fear not─I am in full control of my faculties, I assure you. And the Eye itself is of no relevance to this tale─it is not essential that I bear it with me wheresoever I go. Its lingering influence does, however, allow me to hear Nidhogg's voice…”

“Then the wyrm who roared...?” Alphinaud asked.

“...Was Nidhogg, aye. He means to hurl his Horde against Daniffen's Collar, and shatter the remaining wards that protect the city. There can be no doubt─the wyrm has summoned his minions to war.”

The summoner looked at the dragoon and inhaled deeply. Midgardsormr had not been lying. Though she knew not what motivated the great wyrm’s son, a thousand years of resentment was not something to be trifled with. We’re in for a hell of a fight. She thought.

Her gaze traveling to Ser Aymeric, he looked up at her and said, “I am painfully aware of the hypocrisy of our request, and the self-inflicted nature of our predicament. But should it serve to deliver my people from their unkind fate, gladly shall I bow my head and beg for aid. I expect─nay, welcome─the coming storm of scorn and disdain.”

Shaking her head, she replied, “There is no shame in asking for help, Ser Aymeric. Whatever the alliance or your fellow countrymen have to say, know that my magicks are yours to command as are any of the adventurers I am able to recruit to the cause. I will not abandon Ishgard in her hour of need.”

His heart swelled at her words. “You truly are the hero of our age. I cannot thank you enough, Celaena.”

Estinien regarded the two of them and said, “Nidhogg… He is the source of our suffering. If we do not fell the wyrm, these endless clashes count for naught.”

“And if he does not deign to show himself in Coerthas?” Celaena asked. “Shall we bring the fight to him?”

The dragoon smirked. He liked her. “If needs be. I trust you will be joining us, my lady?”

“I wouldn’t have it any other way,” she retorted.

“Whether or not Nidhogg decides to show himself, we have preparations to make,” Alphinaud stated. “Shall we return to the Rising Stones?”

“Were that we could stay longer, but I suppose we shall,” Celaena replied. “I have adventurers to contact and you have Crystal Braves to organize.”

“On behalf of Ishgard, I thank you for your aid,” Aymeric said.

“We shant take long. The sooner we rid Ishgard of dragons the sooner we can celebrate our victory,” the summoner replied with a smile, following her friend out of the intercessory.

After the door shut, Aymeric looked at the dragoon with raised eyebrows. “The rumors don’t quite do her justice. She truly is a force to be reckoned with,” Estinien said. “Isn’t she?”

“You’ve no idea my friend,” the lord commander said with a smile. “You’ve no idea.”

As Celaena and Alphinaud made their way to the entrance of the camp, the younger Elezen said, “Though the circumstances are far from ideal, this desperate endeavor will at least provide us an opportunity to bring the sister states of Eorzea together in common cause. ...Ser Aymeric was more ruthless in his negotiations than I had anticipated. I suppose one must give no quarter when one's home is at stake.”

“I daresay he’s learned a few things from your particular brand of negotiations.”

“But did you see the look on his face when he formally requested our assistance? Though the lord commander has long campaigned for Ishgard to open its gates to outsiders, I suspect this softening of the Holy See's attitude towards foreign cooperation comes as something of a bittersweet victory. The days ahead promise to be interesting indeed…”

“Lucia said as much. I don’t doubt this request came at great cost to their pride, but as I told Ser Aymeric, there is no shame in asking for help. Let us away to the Rising Stones and inform the rest of the Scions the fruits of our meeting.”

-----------

Back at the solar, Celaena was making idle chit-chat with Minfilia when the doors opened. “Alphinaud, it’s good to see you. Tell me, what have you learned?” The antecedent asked.

“Pray summon the others. They must hear my report.”

After they finished recounting the events in Coerthas, Minfilia said, “So this was all but a taste of what’s to come…”

“Indeed. The main host advances upon Ishgard as we speak.” Alphinaud said, gravely.

“Whose vaunted defenses have been nullified,” Papalymo added.

“Shorn of its wards, the city will bear the full brunt of Nidhogg’s fury,” Y’shtola stated.

“Alphinaud is right. The Dravanians cannot be allowed to prevail. If Ishgard falls, all of Eorzea will suffer the consequences,” Thancred interjected.

“Then you agree we have no choice but to intervene. For the good of the realm, the Scions of the Seventh Dawn and the Crystal Braves must join the defense of Ishgard,” Alphinaud said.

“Let there be no ambiguity about what’s been proposed. We would be directly intervening in the war. But if all here believe the cause to be just, then to war we shall go,” Minfilia stated, turning to Celaena. “The path we now embark upon is perilous, but I pray you will walk with us to the end.”

“I was planning on going regardless of what was decided and I’ve already told Ser Aymeric as much. This whole ordeal has been bothering me since my fight with Shiva. I will not sit idle while my friends fight to what could possibly be their doom,” the summoner boldly stated.

The antecedent nodded. “For those we have lost. And for those we can yet save.”

“Then it is settled. I shall inform the council of our intentions, and request that they contribute their own forces to the defense of Ishgard,” Alphinaud proclaimed.

As the group dispersed, Celaena noticed a hushed exchange between Ilberd and Yuyuhase that ended with the lalafell saluting and walking off. Riol had apparently noticed it as well and she thought of his words to her in Ul’dah. Shaking her head, she departed the solar. Ishgard took precedence at the moment and she had volunteer dragonslayers to recruit.

Notes:

This was a long one, and I thank you for staying with me till the end. I suspect another chapter or two before we get to the events of Heavensward, after which I'll mark this one complete and start a new volume for the series. As for Midgardsormr's dialogue, he's a lot chattier and more upfront about his intentions in the Japanese version, so I decided to use a combination of that translation as well as the English version. Till next chapter!

[matan4il]

Your comments on AO3 are more powerful than you know.

A comment on a fic more than once gave me the idea or inspiration I needed to add another part to that fic. It helped me to produce even more of the content that the reader who left it enjoyed so much.

A comment on an older fic reminded me that my fics don’t get lost 24 or 48 hours after posting. True, that’s when most fics get the majority of their hits, kudos and comments, so a writer sometimes feels like if a fic hasn’t done well in that time frame, it’s as good as gone. But some people discover and love such fics later on and that’s incredible.

A comment once stopped me from deleting my AO3 account. For reasons, I was feeling really low, like I had no talent and nothing to offer. Like everything I was posting was banal and worthless. And as my finger was hovering over the ‘delete account’ button, a mail notification let me know that someone left a comment on one of my fics. I went to read it and it was absolutely lovely. And it complimented not just that fic, but my writing overall. It helped me get through a rough moment.

Your comments can mean so much more than you know. You have more capacity to do good and help content creation in the fandom, that you and others enjoy, than you realize.

So this is my little note, as an author, to say THANK YOU to all the people who take the time to leave a comment on AO3 or send an ask on Tumblr or write kind words in the tags of a reblog. It all means so very much! <33333

[sariahsue]

As an author, I can verify all these things. I’ve never gotten so discouraged that I wanted to delete my account, but nice comments can definitely turn my mood around.

And I *always* check the tags. 

[tyalangand]

That totally reminds me of this one moment when I felt like shit about my writing and then this one person started going through all my works and leaving lovely comments on every single one! Comments are honestly the best!

[niuniente]

And it’s OK to comment the same fic many times! I have some fics I like to read and I go back to comment them again, no matter did I read it 4 months or 14 years later again. There are no commenting rules! ALL authors will love comments and would you comment the same fic more than once or twice or trice, I assure you you will make the author’s day.

[tentoriwrites]

Same goes for tags. I love seeing tags even if it’s just one or two words. 

[celaena-writes]

Decided to name my sourdough starter so I'd remember to feed it.

[celaena-writes]

Strength In Unity pt. 3

The meeting at Gridania brought some unwelcome news; Garlemald had chosen a new emperor. Without the war of succession to distract the nation, it was believed it wouldn’t be long before the new leadership ordered the annexation of Eorzean lands to resume. It would seem the city-states would have to rekindle the fervor of the old alliance and somehow find a way to bring Ishgard into the fold if they were to weather the impending assault. At least no one would begrudge her for informing Ser Aymeric of the meeting’s contents; not that she would have cared either way. After the meeting, Alphinaud prattled on about the state of the three nations before bidding her to meet with Ilberd at the Adders’ Nest. “Should there be any developments in Coerthas, you may be sure that I will send word without delay. In the meantime, I wish you success in apprehending the Ivy.”

“Let’s hope this ends quickly.” She said, departing Nophica’s Altar.

Before making her way to the Adders’ Nest, she pressed her finger to her ear and silently cursed herself when she realized that, in her haste, she had failed to give Ser Aymeric a linkpearl so that he may contact her directly. Grumbling, she pulled out a sheet of parchment and penned a short missive to him regarding the meeting and dropped it off at the closest delivery moogle. Thanking her with a cheerful “kupo!”, the little furball flew off to the north.

-----

Drowning in paperwork as always, Aymeric sat at his desk poring over the latest reports from Snowcloak. Despite their best efforts, they had yet to discover a tunnel that led to wherever Lady Iceheart had stolen away to. He only hoped the Scions were making better progress. He was about to move to the next report when his door sprung open and an unfamiliar moogle carrying a red bag flew into his office. “I’m sorry sir, he wouldn’t wait.” Lucia apologized.

He waved his hand dismissively and said, “Well hello there, little one. To what do I owe the pleasure?”

“Delivery from Gridania for Lord Commander Aymeric of the Temple Knights of Ishgard kupo!” The moogle proclaimed, passing him the letter.

From Gridania? He questioned, before it dawned on him. Celaena. “Thank you for your service.”

“Have a nice day, kupo!”

Once the moogle had left, he broke the seal on the letter and unfolded the parchment. Contained within was a short note, printed in the elezen’s neat handwriting.

Dear Ser Aymeric,

I hope this letter finds you well and in a timely manner. Had I not had to depart so quickly, I would have given you one of my linkpearls so that you may speak with me directly. Be that as it may, I bring grim news from the meeting. Garlemald has chosen a new emperor. High Legatus Varis yae Galvus, grandson of  Solus zos Galvus, has taken the throne. Though he will require time to seal his grip on power, the Alliance fears it is only a matter of time before they resume their quest for Eorzean annexation. They’ve agreed to work together to prepare for possible hostilities with the Empire and also discussed how Ishgard might be convinced to join the fight. I am aware Ishgard has more pressing matters to attend to, but I wanted you to know. I am still waiting on a solution to our aetheryte problem, but once I have one, I shall let you know. 

See you soon,

Celaena

Lucia watched her commander’s face as he read the letter. The corner of his mouth lifted slightly before his brow furrowed. “Is something the matter, sir?”

“It’s from Celaena. Garlemald has chosen a new emperor and the Alliance fears they might resume annexation once he has firmly established power.”

“Given the devastation she brought on Castrum Meridianum, it will be some time before the Empire musters enough troops to resume its conquest.”

He nodded. “I agree, though I am not sure Ishgard will be able to stay out of the fight this time.”

“I’ve a feeling you may be right, sir.”

“Time will tell…” He mused, slipping the letter into his desk drawer.

Trudging back into the Rising Stones after running all over the Black Shroud in an attempt to apprehend the Ivy, she made for the Solar to inform Minfilia their mission had been a success. Once the Antecedent had gotten over her shock that Raubahn’s second in command was an imperial spy, she informed the summoner there had been a break in the aetheryte issue. “Ordinarily, it would be a simple matter to tap into the established Aethernet and thereby follow our quarry. However, despite our best efforts, we have been unable to ascertain the position of the aetheryte to which she teleported.

"Our prevailing theory is that she destroyed the second aetheryte upon arrival─a reckless, desperate measure, but also an effective one. After discussing the matter at length with Urianger, we have concluded that we lack the expertise to develop a solution. ...Which is why we have called upon the aid of one who does possess such expertise─a colleague of ours who is currently en route to Revenant's Toll from Sharlayan. She should be arriving within the hour, in fact. Since you are here, mayhap we could welcome her together. I am certain she would appreciate the gesture. Let us make our way to the northern gates and await her coming.”

----------

Returning to the Rising Stones with their Roegadyn guest, Celaena would quickly learn this was more of a reunion than an introduction. Moenbryda was not only an expert in aetheryte technologies, she was also a friend and fellow student of several of the Scions. After a touching and humorous reunion with Urianger of all people, she turned to Minfilia and said, “You still haven’t found it, then? Your missing aetheryte?”

“We have not, no.” Minfilia answered, explaining how the heretics likely destroyed the second aetheryte in order to impede pursuit.

“I’m sorry, but... if the aetheryte’s been destroyed, then that’s that. Although…” Moenbryda said pensively, “You’re absolutely sure she used the first aetheryte, are you? She didn’t just use teleportation magicks?”

“I was there,” Celaena said, “She stretched her hand to the aetheryte and vanished.”

“Well in that case, there might be a way--so long as the aetherial current is still flowing.”

“Truly? How?” Minfilia asked.

“We use the current to recreate the beacon. As you know, aetherytes are a bit like lighthouses. We use them to reconstitute our physical forms when crossing the aetherial sea. Without them, we’d lose all sense of direction and our essence would dissipate. However, we don’t solely rely on these beacons. There are currents of aether which flow between them--currents which help guide us to our destination. Now, these currents will gradually dwindle away to nothing if an aetheryte is destroyed. But, if even a sluggish current remains, we could theoretically use it to direct a surge of concentrated aether toward the void left by the beacon and thereby fill it up again.”

The scions proceeded to debate over the vast quantities of aether it would require and the feasibility of whether or not it would even work, to which Y’shtola said, “I barely succeeded in facilitating travel to an unattuned beacon. That which you describe sounds considerably more difficult.”

“And dangerous!” Moenbryda added, “Every person who has attempted to teleport in this fashion has died in the process. They, however, did not have white auracite at their disposal! I can use it to channel all the aether you can give me into the aetheryte. However, white auracite cannot retain aether for an extended period of time, so we would need to infuse it immediately beforehand. Just so you know, I’d confidently give this plan better than even odds of success. And, if the worst comes to the worst, your people won’t suffer.”

“Though it risk the lives of our best and brightest, we have not the time to seek other options. If the aetherial current still flows, we shall carry out Moenbryda’s plan.” Minfilia stated.

“That’s the spirit! Let’s roll the dice!”

Celaena nodded and forced a smile. She wasn’t exactly thrilled with the plan, what with her chances of either teleporting to the beacon like she had done hundreds of times to others or slamming into a proverbial brick wall and shattering into aetherial dust, but Minfilia was right; they didn’t have time to seek other options and they had a duty to attend. “When do we do this?”

“Give me three days,” Moenbryda said, “I’d like to survey the site first and take some readings to make sure there’s enough of a current to work with.”

“Very well,” Minfilia said, “I will inform Alphinaud of our plan and have him relay the information to the Temple Knights and have them cease their search for an alternate passage. Celaena, you know the drill; gather your companions and apprise them of the inherent risk of this mission. Tell them we will see to it they’re sufficiently compensated upon its success. As for the rest of you, save your aether and we will rendezvous at Snowcloak in three days time.”

-----------

“Commander Lucia,” Yuyuhase called, running up to her with a tall Roegadyn woman in tow. “I’ve a message from Commander Levillieur. It would seem the Scions have discovered a solution to our missing aetheryte problem.”

“A possible, but very likely solution,” the woman said. “Moenbryda, at your service.”

“Moenbryda here would like your permission to examine the aetheryte and take some readings to determine the feasibility of her plan.” The lalafell filled in.

Lucia regarded the large woman carefully. “Very well, I shall take you there personally.”

The trio made their way through the icy halls of Snowcloak to the chamber with a mid-sized aetheryte tucked into the corner. While Moenbryda gaped in awe, Lucia asked, “May I know the details of this plan so that I may report it to the lord commander?”

“Oh, yes of course.” Moenbryda replied, explaining the process with the white aetheryte.

“So,” Lucia began, “you’re basically opening the floodgates to fill a dry riverbed and hoping Celaena will be able to use that to travel to the void left by the missing aetheryte.”

“To put it simply, yes.”

“And what if she is unable to make it? What happens to her?”

“She dies, of course. Fortunately, it will be a painless death should that happen. But have no fear…” Moenbryda stated, adjusting the strange goggles on her eyes. “It appears the current is still flowing. I will need some more time for analysis, but I am confident this plan will succeed.”

“I see…” Lucia said, furrowing her brow. “And how much time do you need?”

“Commander Levilleur said the Scions will arrive in three days.” Yuyuhase interjected.

“Thank you, I will inform Ser Aymeric of these new developments and have him order his troops to provide backup when the time arrives. Are you two able to find your way out?”

“I’ll handle things from here, commander.” Yuyuhase replied.

The lord commander is not going to like this one bit. She thought, exiting the chamber and making her way outside.

Back in Ishgard that evening, Lucia made her way to his office to give her report of the day’s affairs. “I am also happy to report the Scions have found a way to track down Iceheart.”

“That’s wonderful!” He exclaimed. “Praytell how they plan to do so.”

“I met with a Sharlayan friend of theirs today who plans on recreating the missing aetheryte with something called white auracite. It’s never been done before, but if it succeeds Celaena will be able to use it like any other beacon.”

“If it succeeds?" He asked. "And if it fails?”

She swallowed thickly. “Naught but a painless death awaits her.”

Aymeric’s hands tightened their grip on the arms of his chair. “And this is the only way?”

“It would appear so, sir.”

His pale blue eyes flicked to the side and he let out a breath. Taking a sip of his tea that had long since gone cold, he said, “I wish that were not the case, but time is of the essence. When will their plan be set in motion?”

“In three days time.”

“Very well. I shall be there to receive them and offer the support of the Temple Knights in any way needed.”

“I’m afraid that is impossible, sir. You have a meeting scheduled with the Archbishop and Heavens’ Ward that day.”

“So I do…” He said, disappointingly. “One cannot simply cancel on the Archbishop now can they?”

Lucia tried to hide her smirk. “No, no they cannot.”

“Then I leave them in your care.” Aymeric stated. “And one more thing. Though I am loath to keep secrets, I think it best we keep the details of this plan away from Lord Haurchefant for as long as possible. You’re aware of how much he cares for Celaena and I’m afraid if he knows what she is going to do he may do something rash.”

“Will do, sir. Will that be all?”

“Thank you, Lucia, you are dismissed.” He waited for her to exit and let out the sigh he had been holding in. Running his fingers through his hair, he stood up and walked to the window. Three days. In three days time, his friend could be dead. He shook his head. I mustn't let myself think like that. Celaena wouldn’t agree if she didn’t think there was a chance of success. He thought, wandering back to his desk. Opening the drawer, he pulled out her letter and read it for what seemed like the hundredth time. Perhaps this meeting was Halone’s way of interfering. Though he had warned Lord Haurchefant may do something foolish, he wasn’t entirely sure he wouldn’t do the same. Sighing, he placed the letter back in the desk and set about writing his own.

--------

Three days later, Minfilia had expressed her confidence she would return and bade her speak with Alphinaud when she arrived at Snowcloak. Finding her friend in the throng of knights and braves, he turned to her and said, “Good to see you, Celaena. I was starting to wonder if you were having second thoughts. Captain Ilberd sends his regards, by the way. He attends to the interrogation of Eline Roaille in Ul'dah even as we speak. But I shall not distract you from the matter at hand. We can discuss the Ivy upon your return. I trust that... By which I mean to say…" He cleared his throat. "The others are waiting for us at the aetheryte. After you, Scion.”

Wending their way through the serpentine passes of the frozen wall, they arrived at the aetheryte chamber where the other scions awaited them. Moenbryda held out the white auracite and each of the Scions held out their hand to infuse it with aether. “There, it's ready!” She exclaimed, holding the glowing, milky white crystal up to the larger one. Celaena cocked her head as the aether flowed from one to another. She’d be lying if she said she wasn’t at least a little nervous.

“Hah! It worked...I think,” the roegadyn said. “Try attuning to the aetheryte now. Feel for the current and try to locate the beacon.”

Closing her eyes, Celaena stretched out her own hand and let tendrils of her aether flow into the crystal. She felt for the beacon, and though it was faint, it was there. “I think I found it,” She said. “I attuned to something at least.”

“We have done all we can, Celaena,” Alphinaud said. “For now, let us withdraw. When your final preparations are complete, you must seek out the beacon we have created. If, by the grace of the Twelve, you arrive safely, you must stop Iceheart before she summons Shiva. We cannot ignore the possibility that our actions have alerted Iceheart to our plans. Should that be the case, she may attempt to hasten the completion of the summoning ritual. And if she succeeds, you will have little choice but to face Shiva in battle.”

“Let us hope it doesn’t come to that,” she replied, turning to follow the rest of the Scions.

Squinting hard as she stepped back into the sunlight, she scanned for her compatriots that were crazy enough to follow her on this endeavor. In her search, she couldn’t help but notice a certain gold-clad commander was missing. He was no doubt a busy man, but a part of her wished she was able to speak with him before either rushing into battle or her doom. Sighing, she meandered her way through the camp and eventually found her way back to Alphinaud who felt the need to impart some more sagely wisdom on her. “Knowing little of this “saint,” I cannot say if your own strength will suffice, and so I would encourage you to call upon your allies. Some may have reservations about wagering their lives on the success of Moenbryda's experiment, but others will surely agree that desperate times call for desperate measures.”

“Fret not my friend,” she replied, smiling. “They’ve already agreed and will be here in less than a bell. I may be slightly mad, but I’m not that mad.”

“Very good, very good. Ah! Before you assemble your party, pray speak with that knight,” he gestured with his head.  “I believe he has a message for you from Ser Aymeric. Of all the myriad challenges you have faced, I should be amazed if it were a failed teleportation attempt that finally killed you. Pray do not surprise me.”

“I thought you liked surprises,” She teased.

He shook his head. “Not this time. Go. Get ready.”

“Yes sir,” She replied, walking over to see what this knight had to say. “Hello. I am told you have something for me?”

“Madam. Ser Aymeric regrets that he could not be here in person, and asks that I read to you this letter.” He cleared his throat. “Ishgard faces an unprecedented threat─yet in our hour of need, it is not her knights who stand poised to defend her. Celaena Fireheart, the Warrior of Light, savior of Eorzea─your deeds this day shall not be forgotten. Where others would flee, you choose to remain. Where others would falter, you rise to the challenge. Where others would use their gifts for selfish ends, you wield yours in service to a greater cause. May Halone bless you with good fortune and see you safely home.”

Celaena couldn’t stop the smile from spreading on her face. His written words were no less elegant than the spoken and whatever trepidation twisted in her gut vanished upon listening to them. “...May I keep that letter?”

“I...I see no reason to deny you. It is addressed to you after all.”

“Thank you,” she replied, taking the sheet of crisp parchment and letting her eyes traverse his flowing handwriting. “Do tell Ser Aymeric his words have helped steel my resolve and I will do everything in my power to neutralize this threat and return to you all.”

“It shall be done.”

Nodding, she pocketed the letter and saw that her companions had finally arrived. A wicked grin playing on her lips, she walked over to them and asked, “Are you ready? We have a summoning to stop.”

Read the rest on AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/32959384/chapters/83968003 

[celaena-writes]

Strength In Unity Pt. 2

Chapter 2: Snowcloak

A new day dawns onto the Coerthan Highlands and there are heretics to hunt

Spoilers for A Realm Reborn and Heavensward

Part 1

AO3

Celaena awoke early; a little too early. She could hear the rest of the camp slowly starting to stir and begrudgingly got out of bed. Shivering once she stepped out from under the warm, heavy blankets, she quickly got dressed and attempted to fix her hair. A few minutes later, she heard a knock at her door. “Celaena, are you awake?” Haurchefant called.

“Yes, you may come in.” She replied.

Her friend walked in, carrying a steaming mug. Noticing her still blinking the sleep from her eyes, he said, “Good morning sleepyhead. Sleep well?” She nodded. “I thought you might be cold, so I brought you something warm to drink.”

“Thank you.” She said taking the mug. “Those blankets are amazingly warm, but once you leave them, the cold certainly doesn’t let you forget it’s still there.”

He laughed. “I’ve heard they work even better when there’s two people under there. If you are won’t to test this theory, I will happily volunteer as a test subject.”

She raised her eyebrows. “Lord Haurchefant, are you trying to get me into bed with you?”

“‘Tis brutally cold outside my dear! Can you blame me for wanting to share body heat with a woman such as yourself?”

She placed her hand over her heart, feigning shock. “But my lord! Think of the scandal it would cause! A lord of House Fortemps lying down with a foreigner. What would the other houses think!?”

“Why, the gossip would spread like wildfire!” He laughed before his face sobered. “It’s a good thing I care little what the other houses think of me.”

Celaena looked at him, hoping she hadn’t overstepped any bounds, and said, “And that is one of the many things I like about you. You were the only one who showed us an onze of kindness when we first came here and I’ll never forget that.”

He grinned, placing a hand over hers. “Ever am I glad to hear that.”

Feeling a small blush creep up to her cheeks, she said, “Speaking of houses, I should get ready for our meeting with House Durendaire.”

“Ah, yes. Of course. I believe Master Alphinaud is already downstairs.” He stood, pulling her up with him. “Shall we?”

“Lead the way, good sir.”

----------

“Good, you’re awake.” Alphinaud said as she and Haurchefant approached him. “We have much to do today. After apprising Minfilia of the situation, I shall summon a unit of Crystal Braves to assist us. As for you, Celaena--pray join me in Whitebrim Front. As the knights of House Durendaire have redoubled their reconnaissance efforts, it is my hope they may have information which may help us determine precisely where the heretics are hiding. I shall see you there, then?”

Her stomach growled. “Once I’ve had breakfast, I shall join you. I’m no good on an empty stomach.”

“Very well. Don’t take too long. I shall see you there.” He said, leaving to call Minfilia.

Celaena rolled her eyes and turned to Haurchefant. “Care to join me?”

“I’d love to!” He replied enthusiastically.

--------

Fed and promising Haurchefant she would return with any news as soon as she could, she mounted her chocobo and made the short ride to Whitebrim Front. Ignoring the stares and whispers from the House Durendaire knights as she entered the camp, she made her way to the tower and climbed. “It seems I’m the last one here.” She said, greeting Alphinaud, Lord Drillemont, and, to her surprise, Ser Aymeric and his second in command.

“Good morning Celaena.“ Aymeric greeted, smiling. “We’ve only just arrived ourselves.”

“And I’ve just told Lord Drillemont of the situation.”

“The Scions of the Seventh Dawn wish to join in the hunt for Iceheart? Your assistance is more than welcome, my friends. Considering the report I received, I daresay your timing could be no better.”

“We’re all ears, Lord Drillemont” Aymeric said.

“A band of pilgrims was seen transporting a large number of crates to the west. Their garb appears to match the description provided by the squire who survived the attack. Alas, our scouts lost track of them at Snowcloak--that selfsame frozen wall which we speculated might conceal the heretic’s hideaway. Suffice it to say, the disappearance of these ‘pilgrims’ and their provisions all but confirms our suspicions.”

“I have heard enough.” Aymeric stated. “My knights will join the hunt.”

“I took the liberty of summoning a unit of Crystal Braves to Whitebrim Front. Given the gravity of the situation, I trust you will agree that we must use every resource available to us.” Alphinaud added.

“...These are extraordinary circumstances, Commander. ‘Twould be in our best interests to coordinate our efforts.”

“Such was my intent from the start, Ser Aymeric.” Alphinaud turned to Celaena. “And so it begins my friend--though I daresay it will be an all-too brief collaboration. Iceheart will not elude the combined forces of the Crystal Braves and the Temple Knights for long.”

“Here’s hoping .” Celaena said. “Seeing as how the Crystal Braves are unfamiliar with Snowcloak, it is my hope their fresh set of eyes will notice something that may have been overlooked.”

He nodded. “Nevertheless, a wise man does not wager all on the success of a single solution. There may yet be subtler means by which we can locate the heretics’ lair. Lord Drillemont, mayhap you have one in mind?”

“It seems as though we are always one step behind, our quarry ever just beyond our reach. Though I would like to believe that the tables are about to turn, I must confess to having certain doubts. A joint effort may succeed where others have failed...but it could yet yield the selfsame result. Fortunately, we are not without other options. I trust you haven’t forgotten Inquisitor Guillaime?” Celaena nodded. “We have not. The mystery of how the heretic remained undiscovered for so long has been much in our thoughts, as has the question of what steps might be taken to prevent a similar breach of security in the future. Accordingly, we have conducted an exhaustive--and covert-- evaluation of everyone in Whitebrim Front. Though some were found to have committed minor transgressions, we have identified only one possible heretic. If this man has pledged himself to Iceheart’s cause, he will have taken note of the movements of the Temple Knights and Crystal Braves. And upon recognizing their intent, he may attempt to warn the heretics. The man’s watch is to end soon, at which point he must report to Ser Jeantremont in the yard. I would have you keep an eye on him. If he ventures beyond the walls, follow him discreetly. Should he meet with a heretic, do not interfere--simply watch and listen. I have seen to it that the suspect knows nothing which could endanger our plans.”

“Very well.” The summoner smirked. “I’ve been training with Thancred and Lady Yugiri in the art of stealth whenever I’m able, so this will be a good chance to test my skills.”

Lord Drillemont nodded. “You’ll find Ser Jeantremont down by the supply wagons.”

“Do be careful.” Aymeric said. “We shall await your return.”

“With luck, you shan't be waiting long.” She said, not missing the concern in his voice as she made for the stairs.

“She’ll be fine.” Alphinaud said, watching her leave. “She always comes back.”

“Of that I have no doubt, Master Alphinaud, though one cannot help but be concerned when a friend could be facing potential danger.” The lord commander replied.

“I suppose I’m used to it by now seeing as the Scions frequently send her on dangerous missions. She is our greatest asset in combating the primal threat after all.”

Aymeric swallowed his annoyance at Alphinaud’s words. Asset? Is that all the Scions thought of her? That she was naught but a weapon for them to use whenever they saw fit? He knew she was a willing participant, but the term didn’t sit right with him. “Indeed she is. I suppose there is naught we can do but wait.” He said, biting his tongue before he said something untoward.

“And so we shall.” The boy responded.

-----------

A few hours later, Celaena trudged back up the stairs of Whitebrim front to find her friends pouring over a map of the area. Aymeric was the first to notice her arrival. “Welcome back!” He greeted, cheerfully.

Before she could respond, Lord Drillemont cut right to the point. “Well? Did your investigation bear fruit?”

“Your suspicions are confirmed, Lord Drillemont. I tracked the man to the Daniffen Pass where he met with one of the heretics.Though I was unable to hear their entire conversation lest I give away my position, it’s clear they’re well aware of the Temple Knights arrival in Snowcloak. He said their comrades in Boulder Downs will use the tunnels and they’ll be dead before they know what’s happening.”

“I see. I shall have the man detained at once. His guilt is plain.” The older man sighed. “Would that you could have heard their words more clearly… Yet...the few snatches you were able to make out are nonetheless enlightening. It would seem the heretics are aware of our operation--and confident they can thwart it. Their comrades in Boulder Downs are key to their plans--which means it is key to our plans that they be rooted out and put to the sword.”

“The Temple Knights are at your disposal, Lord Drillemont.” Aymeric said.

“I thank you Ser Aymeric. If you’ll excuse me, I must arrange for additional troops to be sent to Boulder Downs.”

“I shall join you.” Alphinaud said. “I’ve received word the unit of Crystal Braves has arrived in Coerthas and they’ll be needing to know their orders.” He turned to Celaena. “As for you, my friend, do enjoy this moment of respite. I fear the fighting will resume in due time.”

“It always does.” She said, flatly.

“And I suppose we should meet with our own contingent of troops.” Aymeric said. “Would you care to join us, Celaena?”

“As much as I’d like to, It’s probably for the best that I remain here should something happen. I’m in no mood to listen to Alphinaud’s nagging.” She added with a smirk.

The lord commander chuckled. “That almost sounds more fearful than a primal.”

“Primals are far easier to defeat.” She replied. “If I can’t join you, at least let me walk you two to the gate.

The trio walked to the bottom of the tower and out into the blinding snow. “I shall ready the chocobos.” Lucia said, taking her leave.

Aymeric nodded and turned to face the summoner, noticing an inquisitive look on her face. “Is something the matter?”

She shook her head. “No, it’s just… your sword. I’ve never seen anything like it before. It’s beautiful.”

“Naegling.” He said, unsheathing it and holding it in front of her. “A Borel family heirloom passed down to me by my father. Would you like to hold it?”

The summoner’s mouth fell open. “I...Are you sure?”

“I assure you it’s seen far worse treatment than someone holding it.” He smiled. “Take it.”

Gripping the handle of the blue blade, she took it from his hands and was shocked at how light it was. “It barely weighs anything.” She said incredulously. Marveling at the intricate details on the crossguard and fuller, she stepped back and took a few practiced swings at an invisible foe.

Aymeric watched her carefully. She clearly knew some swordplay, much to his surprise. The fact that she was letting him in on this knowledge while using his sword made him smile smugly. “You seem to know what you’re doing with that.”

“The arcane may be my specialty, but one can never know too much.” She stated. “Should I ever have need to steal a weapon, I daresay I should know how to use it. I’m quite practiced with the lance as well.”

“Perhaps you could show our dragoons a thing or two.”

She chuckled. “I’m afraid I can’t jump as high as they can and they’d have a very unfair advantage. Your sword, Ser Aymeric.” She handed Naegling back to him. “That is an exquisite blade you have there.”

He beamed, sheathing the sword at his hip. “Now that you’ve seen mine, I should like to see yours if you’d be so kind as to indulge me.”

“Fair enough.” She responded, handing over the ornate tome. “Grimoire. It was buried in the dirt near Silvertear Falls. It’s no family treasure, but it gets the job done.”

He thumbed through the pages, staring at the unfamiliar diagrams and words written in a language he couldn’t understand. “And this allows you to summon that creature you had with you last night?”

She nodded. “I can summon more than just that one.”

“Will you show me?” He asked, passing her book back to her.

“Of course.” She replied with a smile. She summoned her Titan-egi followed by Ifrit and ending with Garuda.

“Are those…?”

“Primals? I suppose it’s ironic; the primal slayer summoning her own tiny versions of them and using their powers against them.”

“But how? I thought the primals were uncontrollable.”

“The ancient Allagans discovered a way to siphon the essences of the primals and manifest this stolen energy into a controllable form called an egi. As I have defeated these three, I was able to capture their aetheric essence which allowed me to perform a ritual in a place rife with their respected elements that allowed me to summon their egi form. And, much like a wild chocobo, they needed to be shown who their master was before they submitted to my will. Now,” She flicked her hand to make Garuda disappear, “they obey my every command and fight as an extension of myself.”

“Incredible…” Aymeric breathed. “You truly are full of surprises.”

“There’s still much to learn about this lost art, so I imagine there will be more surprises to come.”

“I look forward to seeing them.” He smiled. The happy trill of a chocobo made the both of them turn as Lucia walked up, leading two of the giant birds behind her. “I suppose this is where we part ways for now.”

“I suppose it is.” She replied. “Hopefully I shall see you sooner rather than later.”

“Let us hope.” He said, mounting the bird and turning towards his second. “Shall we?”

“Lead the way, sir. We shall see you soon, Warrior of Light.” The other woman responded.

“Good luck with the search.” Celaena said, waving bye to the pair.

Nodding, they pointed their mounts towards the exit of the front. Once they passed through the gate, Lucia said, “If you had wished to stay, sir, I could have handled the preparations in your stead.”

Aymeric shook his head. “Though I would have liked to, it wouldn’t be very becoming of a commander. Besides, you know how knights gossip.Sometimes I wonder who’s worse, them or the noblewomen.”

“That is certainly a question for the ages.”

----------

Some time later, Celaena was making small talk with a few of the knights when she heard, “There you are! I’ve been looking everywhere for you.”

“Is aught amiss, Alphinaud?”

“Lord Drillemont wishes to speak with you as soon as you are able.” He said, “And what is this I hear of you holding Ser Aymeric’s Niggling?”

“His Niggling?” She snorted. “Do you mean Naegling?”

“Yes, that’s it. I overheard some knights talking about it. I do hope you’re not disturbing our friends’ things when they’re not around.”

She really couldn’t believe the audacity of him sometimes. “Oh this was a personal invitation to touch it. It felt wonderfully smooth and rigid in my hand. You wouldn’t believe how easy it was to work it. Simply exquisite.”

“....What exactly are you talking about?”

“His sword of course.” She said honestly.

“...His sword? Are we talking…? Alphinaud’s ears were turning pink and it certainly wasn’t because of the cold.

Celaena doubled over with laughter. “You know, the long, sharp, pointy things most people wear at their hip? Where exactly was your mind going, Alphinaud Leveilleur?”

He gaped at her like a fish. “...I didn’t mean...it’s not…I just...”

“You walked right into that one my friend.” She said, still chuckling. “You should have seen your face!”

“How was I supposed to know his weapon had a name?” The boy huffed, still clearly embarrassed.

“I didn’t know either until I commented on how beautiful it was and he proffered the information as well as the sword. Jokes aside, I really shouldn’t keep Lord Drillemont waiting.”

“Do let me know what he has to say when you return.”

“I always do.” She said, turning towards the main tower.

------------

“Thank you for coming,  Celaena.” Lord Drillemont said. “As you know, we have long suspected the heretics use a network of secret tunnels to traverse the highlands undetected… Given what you overheard, I fear that Snowcloak may be riddled with such passageways and that the heretics in Boulder Downs are planning to use them to take our forces unawares. Needless to say, we can’t allow that to happen. A contingent of House Durendaire knights are on patrol in the area, and I shall order them to begin searching for the heretics at once. But, knowing nothing of our enemy’s numbers or readiness, I cannot say for sure they will be sufficient… It would put my mind at ease if you would consent to assist my knights with the search. I know they would take courage from the presence of so storied a warrior. Pray rendezvous with them at Boulder Downs. If Halone is kind, we may catch these heretics before their plan comes to fruition. Show them no mercy, Celaena. The lives of our allies are at stake.”

“I think I can handle that.” She said, “I’ll depart at once.”

“I thank you. May Halone watch over and keep you safe.”

Exiting the building, she summoned her chocobo and made for the wilds. Through the Daniffen Pass she rode, the narrow passage giving way to a plain of red shards jutting from the ground that resembled frozen blood more than the crystals they actually were. She slowed her bird to a walk and scanned the area for the knights she was set to rendezvous with. It didn’t take long before she spotted them, and Halone had not been kind. Immediately on alert, she dismounted and summoned Titan. As she approached the carnage, she couldn’t shake the feeling she was being watched. It wasn’t long before five of the heretics attacked her, thinking the odds were in their favor. How wrong they were. Slinging both offensive and defensive spells, she made quick work of them and looked on the scene in disgust. She never liked taking a life, but it was inevitable in her line of work. Fortunately, the dead didn’t mind her rifling through their pockets and satchels for anything she could use. The only thing of note she could find was an unassuming piece of parchment with numbers written on it. It seemed out of place among the other effects, so she placed it in her bag and walked back to her chocobo. There were bound to be more heretics hiding in the shadows which meant Aymeric, Alphinaud, and their troops were also in danger. Mounting her bird, she hurried back to Whitebrim Front

----

Puzzled, Lord Drillemont looked at her and said, “My knights sent no word of your coming, Celaena. What’s that in your hand?”

“They didn’t send word because there was no one left to send it, I’m afraid.” She replied, grimly. “The heretics thought themselves fit to do the same to me, but they were quickly dispatched. I found this among their personal effects.”

The older man took the piece of paper and began mumbling to himself. Shaking his head, he said, “The heretics you dispatched were not of sufficient numbers to contend with the combined strength of the Temple Knights and Crystal Braves. There must be others and I’d wager they’re on their way to Snowcloak as we speak. To make matters worse, it seems the traitor you followed managed to pass the heretics something of value after all… The parchment you recovered is a timetable of the guardsmen’s watches at our outpost in Snowcloak. The traitor was stationed there long before he aroused our suspicions. Would that we had caught him sooner! With this information, the heretics would know when the watch was the weakest. They could use their tunnels with impunity and prepare their ambush…”

Celaena listened as he talked of ordering reinforcements to the area. Her own mind running through the terrain and possible places the heretics could hide. Wherever those tunnels were, they were extremely well hidden.

“Time is of the essence, Celaena. While my knights make ready to depart, the heretics may take our allies in Snowcloak  unawares. If you leave now, there may still be time to warn them.Make haste I beseech you! Fly to Snowcloak and tell Ser Aymeric everything we have discovered.”

She nodded and took off down the stairs, nearly knocking over a squire in the process. Though she knew Aymeric and the Temple Knights were plenty capable, their superior training and equipment would avail them naught if they were caught by surprise. Her chocobo seemed to pick up on her need for haste as it gave her a questioning trill. “I need you to go as fast as you can right now, ok?” She said, patting the bird’s neck. “Some friends are in danger and I don’t want anything to happen to them. Let’s go!” With a happy cry, it took off at top speed towards the seemingly seamless wall of ice.

--------

With the wind whipping at her cheeks, she tore into the camp, not stopping until she spotted Ser Aymeric. Dismounting, she trotted up to him and a smile alighted his face. “Celaena. This is a welcome surprise--perhaps the only one thus far. As you can see, we have yet to uncover any hidden--”

“I bring news from Whitebrim Front.” She interrupted, telling him of her discovery of the watch timetable and the threat of imminent attack.

His face softened. “...You have my gratitude. Truth be told, we suspected the heretics might be plotting such an attack. Now that we have confirmation, I shall place my knights on high alert. Has Commander Leveilleur been informed? The Braves must be made aware.”

“I…right. Alphinaud. I shall go tell him.” She stammered. Blowing out a breath and willing her hands to stop shaking, she turned to look for her friend. Crisis averted, for now. She spotted him not far off, speaking to himself.

“It must be here! I am certain of it! Why else would they go to such lengths to defend Snowcloak? ‘Tis but a pity this discovery comes when our enemy has us at such a disadvantage. Forewarned though we be─the heretics know the terrain far better than we. I dare not think how many are watching us at this very moment...Confound it! This is all wrong. Iceheart has us scrambling to save our own skins when we should rightly be straining every sinew to find her, and stop this damnable summoning!”

Celaena’s eyes darted to movement off to the side. “There she is!” The heretic shouted.

“Come here, girl!” Another shouted, charging at Alphinaud.

Before she could move to help, a blur of red and white ran in to intercept and pummeled the two men into submission. Yda!

“That was close! They didn’t hurt you, did they?” She asked him.

“Only my pride, Yda. There will be others nearby. We must see they are given a similarly warm welcome.”

“Commander Leveilleur!” Yuyuhase yelled, running up to him with Papalymo trailing behind. “There's been a development, sir! Together with the Temple Knights, we have secured the entrances to some half-dozen tunnels, after spotting the enemy breaking the surface. But that is not all, sir─we think that one of them may be important. Certainly, the heretics near flung themselves upon our swords to defend it.”

Celaena listed as Papalymo dissuaded Alphinaud from charging right on in, relaying how narrow the tunnel was and the unknown dangers lurking within. She agreed that a small party would be more advantageous in this situation. Fortunately, Alphinaud did as well.

“Ahem! A change of plans. While we rendezvous with Ser Aymeric and keep the heretics at bay here, you will go wherever that tunnel leads. If you find Iceheart at the end of it─do not let her escape. You venture into the unknown, so see that you are prepared for anything. I suggest you call upon your allies─though not too many or Papalymo will sulk.”

“I’ll get on the pearl,” She said.

“We’ll hold the line, Celaena. You may concentrate on the task at hand.”

Nodding, she walked off to see which of her trusted adventurer friends were available.

------

It took some time, but the summoner was able to locate three others willing to run headlong into who knew what. She paced around the camp while she waited for them to arrive, ignoring the points and whispers she was garnering from the Temple Knights. Her feet led her back to the dead end at the edge of the pass where Ser Aymeric stood. Seeing her approach, he turned to her and smiled.

“I am informed that Commander Leveilleur has asked you to lead a party down one of the tunnels. A characteristically daring proposition... Yet I can think of no one better qualified for the task. I bid you good fortune.”  

“Well, more like told me to lead a party rather than ask.” She said, returning his smile. “And I thank you for the vote of confidence.”

Asset. The word echoed in his mind as he listened to her words. Sending a small unit in was the right course of action, but her words bothered him nonetheless. “Have your friends arrived yet?”

“Not yet, but they’re all attuned to the aetheryte at Camp Dragonhead, so it shouldn’t be too long. I’m ready to get this done.”

“Do you ever get nervous?” He asked, “Running headlong into the unknown undoubtedly has its risks. It doesn’t worry you that you may fall into a situation that may be out of your league?”

“Of course it does,” She replied. “Everyone fears the unknown, but sometimes overthinking the gravity of everything is more apt to get you killed than whatever it is you’re doing. On the other hand, the unknown can also be quite exciting.”

“The thrill of the hunt?”

She chuckled, “Something like that.”

“Yo, Celaena!” A voice called.

“Over here!” She waved her arm and turned back to Aymeric. “It would seem my friends are here. Ser Aymeric, I’d like you to meet Enyala and the Espressos, Solo and Doppio.”

“A pleasure to meet you.” He said, bowing. “As Celaena has said, I am Aymeric, lord commander of the Temple Knights. We have established a defensive perimeter and you need not worry about attack from the rear. Pray speak to my knight over there and he will show you the entrance when you are ready.”

“I’ve been ready.” Celaena stated. “What about you three?”

They nodded. “Let’s go see what in seven hells is in that tunnel!” One of the lalafell exclaimed.

“May the Fury guide and protect you, Celaena.”

“I’ll be back as soon as I can.” She turned and walked to the knight to locate the entrance.

The lalafell who had just spoken hung back and eyed Aymeric with a smirk. “We’ll get her back to you in one piece, I promise.” He said, not giving the elezen a chance to respond before sauntering off.

--------

“Remind me to come to Coerthas more often. The men here are absolutely gorgeous!” The lalafell exclaimed.

“Shut it, Solo,” Celaena rolled her eyes. “We have a job to do.”

“Are you blind? He asked, “Or do you not see the beauty around you, especially that Ser Aymeric. That man has eyes for no one but you.”

“Oh please, I’ve only met him yesterday. He knows virtually nothing about me. Let us focus. We have a tunnel to clear.” The summoner replied.

“Yes, yes of course. Lead the way you spoilsport.”

And so they did; slashing their way through fiend and foe and arriving at the final chamber of the tunnel. After dispatching the last fiend, a silver haired elezen woman appeared before them. “The tales do not do you justice, Warrior of Light.” She said, “Yes, I know who you are. And you know who I am. I was given the name Ysayle, but I earned the name Iceheart. This endless cycle of hatred, of bloodshed, of sorrow--you would see it continue, O noble Warrior of Light? I would not. I will not . I will bring an end to this war between dragon and man--no matter the cost. In time, you will come to understand that what we do, we do for the greater good. For Eorzea. For Hydaelyn.”

Celaena started. For Hydaelyn? No… it couldn’t be… Before she was able to ask, Iceheart stepped up to the small aetheryte crystal and vanished. “The tunnel is secure.” She said, “Let us return to the surface and report our findings.”

-------

Breaking through the thin layer of ice that had formed, Celaena and her friends stepped out into the open air. “Though I did not doubt that you would return, I am nonetheless relieved to see my judgment validated.” Ser Aymeric said, approaching her, earning the summoner an elbow from her lalafellin friend.

“That took longer than I expected. What news, Celaena?” Alphinaud asked, approaching the group. After regaling the tale of what happened beneath Snowcloak, the boy said, “So Iceheart is but a pseudonym--not that it matters. That she managed to escape is regrettable, but from your description of that beast, you did well to come as close as you did.  In any case, now that you have cleared a path, the Temple Knights can begin to survey the tunnels in earnest. Mayhap they will even find a route past the ice wall. Wouldn't that do wonders for their fight against the heretics. The Crystal Braves would certainly share the credit for it too. Twelve be praised, Celaena─we may yet turn this situation to our advantage. ...Assuming we stop Iceheart before she summons Shiva, of course. Needless to say, our fellow Scions have not been idle. Minfilia and Urianger have been busy perusing the archives of House Fortemps, gathering what information they can on Shiva. Which reminds me, if you were intending to trudge back to Camp Dragonhead to report on the day's events─don't. The Antecedent should be here any minute. I can only assume some people enjoy subjecting themselves to this cold.” He shivered.

“It’s not that bad.” The summoner replied, smirking. “Anything is better than sweating.”

“Suit yourself. Ah, Antecedent. You come to us straight from the archives of House Fortemps. I trust your time there proved fruitful.”

“Would that it had. Urianger and I scoured countless texts, but what we found was of questionable veracity. Accounts of Shiva's life and deeds are sparse and contradictory, only agreeing upon one point… She lay down with a dragon─the gravest of all sins, according to the Ishgardian faith. Yet in the eyes of Iceheart's followers, this was a holy act─the blessed union of man and dragon. How such a thing could even be possible is quite another question. Suffice it to say, I very much doubt that we will find a useful answer in the archives of House Fortemps. Much knowledge has been lost over the centuries─though in this case, one wonders if it is by circumstance or design.” She replied.

Turning to Celaena, Alphinaud said, “You said that Iceheart took a moment to plead her case prior to escaping, did you not?”

“Yes, she said she was going to stop the cycle of hatred, bloodshed, and sorrow and end this war no matter the cost; that what they do is for the greater good.”

“Hm. Viewed without prejudice, most would agree that bringing an end to an endless war serves the greater good.”

“I think Ser Aymeric might take issue with her methods.” Minfilia added.

“I do not care if a few stragglers manage to escape. Until the sappers confirm that a tunnel is safe, the men are not to search it.” Aymeric instructed the knight, his voice interrupting their conversation.

“Yes Lord Commander!”

Walking over to him, Alphinaud said, “You pursue your foes with less zeal than I had expected, Ser Aymeric. Lest you misunderstand, I do not deny that our enemy has given us good reason to be prudent. I merely meant─you being a man of faith─that I had expected a certain...single-mindedness. After all, was it not by the will of Halone that your ancestors came to this land─why they took up arms against the Dravanians? What would they have done in your position, I wonder…”

The lord commander looked over and saw two additional sets of eyes on him. Celaena looked apologetic.. “...There are those who believe that faith is a renunciation of free will─that unquestioning devotion is required of all who would live a life in service to the Fury. Such righteous fervor may well serve a knight on the front line─less so a leader of men. We are all at liberty to interpret the scriptures as we will. I choose to believe that the Fury would value the lives of Her followers over the deaths of Her enemies. But I would not presume to speak for the knights of eld. 'Twas a different time─nay, a different era ─and scripture tells us only so much.”

“...Would that it told us more.” Another knight commanded Aymeric’s attention, so Alphinaud returned to the two women. “That man is awfully pragmatic for a servant of the Holy See. A welcome trait at the negotiating table, to be sure─less so when one's enemies are making ready to harness the power of a god.”

While he and Minfilia debated the feasibility of Iceheart’s plan to summon Shiva, her mind wandered to the woman herself. Why were reports on her so contradictory? She lay down with a dragon, that much was certain, but was it a sin or the peaceful union between man and dragon? Could it be possible that they were allies a millenia ago? Things didn’t add up, but, as Minfilia had said, was this by circumstance or design? The church had ruled Ishgard for centuries and faith was a powerful tool. Could they have omitted parts of history in order to fit their narrative? There were too many questions. I should like to have a look at their holy scripture when I have the chance . She thought. Alphinaud’s mention of the aetheryte located within Snowcloak brought her out of her reverie.

“My survey team has concluded a preliminary analysis of the aetheryte Iceheart used to escape. They believe that she teleported to another aetheryte, somewhere not far to the west. Despite the apparent proximity of this second aetheryte, however, they have been wholly unable to detect its presence directly. Unless Iceheart has some means to mask its signal, I can only presume she had it destroyed to prevent us from following her. Without the means to teleport as she did, we have no choice but to search for an alternate route─most likely a tunnel─assuming one exists.”

“Let us not give up on teleportation just yet. One of our colleagues in Sharlayan may be able to assist us.” Minfilia added

“I pray that you are right. I dare not think how long it will take us to survey the entire tunnel system… While Minfilia looks into our aetheryte problem, I would like to request your assistance with another matter.” Alphinaud said, detailing his request to follow the remnants of a heretic force that had attacked them and for her to meet at the Observatorium once she was finished. ”The Temple Knights shall hold Snowcloak in our absence. Let us leave them to their work─ours is more pressing.”

“The network of tunnels throughout Snowcloak is extensive. A full survey will take time.” Aymeric said, walking up to the group.

“Harry the enemy when he is entrenched. Retreat from his advance, and attack his flanks when he withdraws. Aye, Iceheart is no fool.” Lucia added.

“She certainly is not.” Celaena agreed.

“So, you’re off again?”

She nodded at the lord commander. “I’m familiar with the area, the Braves are not. Alphinaud figures my knowledge can assist them. Hopefully these heretics haven’t gotten very far and we can apprehend them quick enough.”

“Good luck. Should we discover anything of note, you shall be the first to know.” He smiled.

“I’ll see you soon.” She returned his smile.

--------

Following the trail east, she fought her way through stray heretics before coming upon Yuyuhase near Boulder Downs. After saving him from two heretics, he produced a parchment detailing an escape plan with a rendezvous point near the Observatorium. It also mentioned a merchant sympathetic to the heretics’ cause. She thanked the lalafell and made for the observatorium.

As she approached the outer walls, she heard two voices speaking in hushed tones. “I am through with listening to your excuses! We leave now !”

“How ? The woods are crawling with those bluecoats, and the knights are searching every wagon that passes through the gates!” The other voice hissed.

“Well, stay with her, then, if you think you'll fare any better.” The man gestured toward the approaching summoner.

“Now, now, there’s no need for that.” Ilberd said, cornering the pair with Alphinaud and Yugiri.

After the one man vehemently denied any wrongdoing, Ilberd hauled the two of them off for interrogation. Alphinaud informed her it was the merchant they were really after as, thanks to the work of Yugiri and her shinobi, he had potential ties to their search for the Ivy. Celaena had nearly forgotten about their search for the imperial spy, but for them to reach their tendrils all the way into Coerthas was telling. Electing to wait inside for Ilberd to finish his interrogation, the two elezen made for the Observatorium.

------

It wasn’t long before Ilberd approached the pair. “Captain Ilberd. Your report, if you will.”

Celaena listened as the captain detailed how the merchant received details of the shipments headed for Revenant’s Toll, including the ones from House Fortemps, thanks to an Immortal Flame stationed at the outpost. The Flame was detained and confessed to aiding and abetting the heretics. With that mystery solved, he and Alphinaud launched into a discussion of the potential identity of the Ivy. It seemed they had made a grave error and used certain administrative powers only available to a certain few high-ranking members of the Immortal Flames to cover their tracks. This would bring their suspect pool down considerably, and hopefully an end to this wild dodo chase.

“Very good. Pray continue your investigation with the 1st. Meanwhile, have the 2nd attend to the unrest. The 3rd can join the 4th in inspecting crystal shipments. If they notice anything unusual, I want to know about it. If Shiva is summoned in like manner to the other primals, the heretics will be looking for further supplies.” Alphinaud instructed the captain.

“Understood, commander.”

“I shall send word to Ser Aymeric informing him of our success in identifying the heretics' abettors. Hopefully, the information will be of some use to the Ishgardians.”

“I’ll go,” Celaena volunteered. “Lord Haurchefant should also be informed of our discovery. It will ease his mind to know he no longer has to worry about heretics absconding with the supplies.”

“Very well.” The boy nodded.

“It is time, Commander.” Ilberd said.

“Yes, I am aware. An emergency council of the Alliance leadership has been called. There have been developments in Garlemald, it would seem. As commander of the Crystal Braves, my presence has been requested. I would have you accompany me, Celaena. As the realm's stoutest champion, 'tis only meet that you be present for the discussion. Oh, and the Antecedent has already given her consent, lest you worry.

Like me, you are doubtless eager to conclude our business with Iceheart, but until another path to her sanctum is found, she will remain beyond our reach. Minfilia and the Archons are sparing no effort to secure an alternate route. Until such time as they succeed, I suggest we give some thought to the realm's other problems… I shall go on ahead to Gridania in readiness for the coming council. Meet me at Nophica's Altar, and we shall make our way to the Lotus Stand together.”

Nodding, she stated, “Once I finish informing Ser Aymeric and Lord Haurchefant of the recent developments, I shall join you anon.”

-----

“Celaena!” Her silver haired friend greeted her happily. “I am told you single-handedly secured Snowcloak and ousted the heretics from their hiding place.”

She chuckled. “Single-handedly is a bit of a stretch, but yes, Snowcloak is now secure. Unfortunately, Iceheart was able to escape. She used an aetheryte contained within to teleport to another location somewhere to the west. The scions are working on a method of ascertaining that location as it would seem the aetheryte on that end has been destroyed to prevent us from pursuit.”

“A setback, no doubt, but you are here, hale and whole, and that is what matters. Your friends will find a way in, of that I have no doubt.”

“I also bring some good news. We apprehended a merchant that was buying secrets from one of the Immortal Flames stationed at Revenant’s Toll; secrets pertaining to shipments of goods from foriegn nations, including those of House Fortemps. I’m happy to report that the Flame was also arrested and you should no longer have any trouble with your caravans. As an added measure of security, the Temple Knights are also searching every wagon headed out of the area.”

Haurchefant beamed and enveloped her into a hug. “That’s wonderful news!” Releasing her, but keeping his hand around her shoulders, he said, “Let us celebrate with a drink!”

“As much as I would love to,” she began, “I have to report to Ser Aymeric before meeting Alphinaud in Gridania.

“Gridania? But you just got here!” He pouted.

“The Eorzean Alliance has called an emergency meeting. There’s apparently been developments in Garlemald. What those are, I know not, but my presence has been requested.” She smiled weakly. “Worry not, my friend, I shan’t be gone too long. I do have a primal to slay.”

He returned her smile. “Then I shall await your return. As always, a warm hearth and warmer welcome will be waiting for you.”

“I look forward to it.”

------

The wind had picked up by the time she reached Snowcloak. Finding Ser Aymeric in the throng, she waited for him to finish speaking to a knight before approaching him. “Ser Aymeric, I bring news.”

“I do hope it is good news. My knights are reporting the tunnel network is more extensive than we thought.”

She reported on the apprehension of the merchant and how the shipments should be safe for the time being. “I’ve also informed Lord Haurchefant on the matter.”

“That is excellent news indeed. Were that I had good news regarding passage to wherever Iceheart has gone.”

“The scions are also working on a plan to possibly use the aetheryte. If there’s a way, they’ll find it. As there is naught to do but wait, my presence has been requested in Gridania. The Alliance has called an emergency meeting as there have been developments in Garlemald.”

“Garlemald? What developments?” He asked.

She shook her head. “Would that I knew. If they’re calling an urgent meeting over it, it has to be something substantial.”

Aymeric frowned. “I’d ask you to keep me abreast of the situation, but if you are unable to tell me, I understand.”

She smirked. “Ishgard may not be part of the Alliance yet, but she is still part of Eorzea. I see no reason to withhold information. As you said yourself, Ishgard is no friend of Garlemald.”

He could have hugged her. “No, she certainly is not.” He replied, smiling. “Good luck in Gridania. We’ll keep searching the tunnels for a way to Iceheart.”

“I’ll be back as soon as I can.” She said, tendrils of aether snaking up her form as she felt for her link to the aetheryte in New Gridania

“I shall anxiously await your return.” Their eyes met briefly before she slipped into the lifestream.

[celaena-writes]

Strength in Unity Pt. 1

celaena-writes (Ky_Lauren)

Summary:

A summons from the reclusive nation of Ishgard brings Celaena Fireheart to Coerthas once again. Who is this Ser Aymeric and why is he so adamant on meeting her?

I'll be using my character, a female elezen summoner, for the duration of this series

Spoilers for A Realm Reborn and Heavensward

Notes:

This came about because of a tumblr post I read about poor Lucia having to listen to Aymeric fanboy about the WoL on their way to Camp Dragonhead for their initial meeting. I had intended for this to be a one shot, but I got a bit carried away. At this point, I think I may just novelize the whole of Heavensward with a WoL/Aymeric twist. We shall see.

As always, kudos and reviews are most appreciated and thanks for reading!

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/32959384/chapters/81801127

Chapter 1: An interest bordering on fascination

Ser Aymeric sat in his office, staring at the ever growing piles of reports on his desk. Sighing, he took a sip of his tea when he heard a knock at his door. “Enter.” He said.

Lucia, his second in command, walked up to him, a grim look on her face. “Lord Commander, the astrologians have sent word again; the dragon star yet burns brighter and so grows their fear of Midgardsormr awakening. We must appeal to the Holy See at once and begin preparations for battle.”

He looked at her. “While I don’t disagree with you, I’m afraid the Holy See will. Without any tangible proof, they will not sanction it. Yet, we are unable to obtain said proof as we do not have any additional knights to send into Mor Dhona.to monitor The Keeper of the Lake.”

“So our hands are tied then.” Lucia admitted.

“Perhaps not.” Aymeric said, picking up a report that had landed on his desk that morning. Scanning it, he replied, “It says here there was some recent trouble with supplies being sent to Mor Dhona at the behest of House Fortemps.”

“Yes sir. Through the aid of the knights of House Fortemps and Durendaire as well as the Warrior of Light, it was determined the heretics were the ones attacking the caravans and stealing the supplies. For what reason, we know naught. They tracked the heretics to Snowcloak, where they seemingly disappeared.”

“Disappeared?” He inquired.

“We believe there must be a hidden labyrinth of tunnels inside of the ice wall the heretics are using to hide as well as ferry their supplies. According to Lord Haurchefant, the Warrior of Light was ready to give chase, but he advised against it and passed the matter along to us. I am told she has since returned to Revenant’s Toll.” Lucia finished.

“So, the Warrior of Light is once again involving herself in Ishgardian affairs.” Aymeric mused, resting his fingers on his chin. “And what of these supplies? Has Lord Haurchefant mentioned his contingency plan?”

“As he is a staunch defender of the frontier effort,  he has already sent a replacement shipment, much to the chagrin of the other high houses.” She added.

“Ah yes, I have heard such grumblings about providing foreign aid. Be that as it may, I agree with Lord Haurchefant that a fortification in Mor Dhona will do much to dissuade the Empire from trespassing on Coerthan soil.” He smiled. “I believe I have found the solution to our problems.”

Lucia cocked her head to the side. “Sir?”

“Word has reached me that a fledgling Grand Company makes its home in Revenant’s Toll; a company not bound to any city-state but under the direct leadership of the Scions of the Seventh Dawn--The Crystal Braves.”

Realization bloomed on Lucia’s face. “And in exchange for allowing the shipments of supplies to continue, you would have them investigate the Keeper of the Lake for us.”

“Precisely.” Aymeric stated. “Their commander is a man named Alphinaud Leveilleur. Though he is quite young, I am told he is capable. Send word to The Rising Stones that I wish to meet with him as well as the Warrior of Light. No exceptions. As this also involves House Fortemps, inform Lord Haurchefant we will be receiving them at Camp Dragonhead.”

“At once milord.” Lucia saluted and departed his office.

He smiled, pulling a file from his desk drawer and flipping through it. “I very much look forward to our meeting, Miss Fireheart.” The commander said quietly to himself, placing the file back inside his desk.

----------

Celaena Firehart strode into the Rising Stones, back from her rescue mission at Castrum Centri. Upon debriefing both Ilberd and Alphinaud, the young elezen turned to her and said, “I realize you have scarce caught your breath--but there is no rest for the weary. I require that you accompany me to Coerthas. I have been granted an audience with an Ishgardian dignitary, you see, and the man expressly requested your presence.” She raised her eyebrow. “Oh, do not look so surprised. You should be familiar with the trappings of fame by now. We shall depart as soon as you are ready.”

“And who, pray tell, is this man who wishes to meet with me so badly?” She asked.

“We have been blessed with a rare opportunity, Celaena--an audience with an ambassador of the Holy See of Ishgard. We are to treat with Ser Aymeric, lord commander of the Temple Knights, in Camp Dragonhead. It is considered a great honor to serve the Holy See as a Temple Knight. Needless to say, their leader wields tremendous political influence. It would be wise to court his favor. For that reason, I consider your attendance essential. If Ser Aymeric wishes to meet the woman behind the legend. I would not deny him the pleasure of your company.” He smiled, smugly, his finger in the air. “The antecedent should see the wisdom of this plan when you request her permission to accompany me to Coerthas.”

Celaena must have made a face, because he continued.

“...Mayhap you feel this to be a waste of your talents, which could doubtless be put to further use? If so, I should remind you that more good can be accomplished with the stroke of a pen than the thrust of a sword.”

The summoner regarded him closely. “Very well, I shall meet with this Ser Aymeric and see what he has to say. Let us hope he is more like Lord Haurchefant than some of the other gentlemen of Ishgard we have had the fortune of entertaining. Let’s speak with Minfilia.”

As Alphinaud expected, the Antecedent thought it a wonderful idea, but brought up a very valid question. “Yet welcome as these overtures are, I cannot help but wonder what prompted them. The Ishgardians have spurned all contact with the city-states for decades. Why reach out now?”

Why, indeed.. . Celaena pondered as Alphinaud recounted the reclusive history of the nation and it’s affiliation, or lack thereof, with the original Eorzean Alliance.

“I have tried to convince Ishgard to rejoin the Alliance at every opportunity. I have explained over and over again that unless Eorzea stands united, we cannot hope to preserve our freedom. One by one, our nations will fall, as once fell Ala Mhigo… And what have mine efforts yielded? Why, naught.” He said, exasperatedly.

While Minfilia was sympathetic to his plight, Celaena had her doubts. While she wholeheartedly agreed Eorzea needed to stand united in order to combat the Imperial threat, it was going to take more than the pleas of a young boy to change the minds of those that chose to remain isolated for decades. He knew that, of course, but it wasn’t going to stop him from trying.

“Of course, I am not so naive to think they come to us out of the goodness of their hearts. We have something they desire, though I have yet to find out what.” He sighed. “Such is the nature of diplomacy. They will bring their agendas to the negotiating table, and so will I--along with a handful of incontrovertible truths.” He turned to his fellow elezen. “Let us depart for Camp Dragonhead, Celaena. Our old friend Lord Haurchefant is expecting us. Since our quest to recover the Enterprise, I understand you have further ingratiated yourself with the man. Excellent work. His fondness may prove useful to our cause.”

Minfilia looked at her friend, eyebrows raised. “His fondness? Is there something you’re not telling us?”

Celaena shook her head. “He is a friend, nothing more.” She said pointedly, looking at Alphinaud. “Let us go. We have a meeting to attend.” She tugged on his ponytail, walking to the exit of the Solar.

“Ow!” He exclaimed. “I was merely stating the truth. His face lights up like a tree at the Starlight Celebration when he sees you. It would behoove you to use that to our advantage.”

“I refuse to manipulate a friend for personal gain. Besides, our relationship with Ishgard is tenuous at best, so drop it, Alphinaud. We have more pressing matters to attend to.

“You’re right.” He agreed. “My apologies.”

“You’re forgiven.” She smiled briefly, her expression turning serious. “I know you’re going to ask Ser Aymeric to rejoin the Alliance, and I won’t stop you, but do not be surprised when you’re greeted with an answer you don’t want to hear.”

“They’re a stubborn lot for sure, but I must try.” He answered, determinedly.

She nodded. “Don’t forget your coat. I know how you hate the cold.”

------------

Ser Aymeric and Lucia saddled their chocobos and walked them through the Arc of the Worthy, mounting them to ride across the Steps of Faith. “What a beautiful day.” Aymeric exclaimed. “Halone has truly blessed us with this reprieve from the blizzard that has raged these past few days. The sun has even deigned to show itself!”

Lucia looked at him, her face impassive. “Indeed it is, sir.”

“I do hope our friends from the Scions are able to witness this before it starts snowing again. Do you think they’ve arrived at Camp Dragonhead?”

A small smile played on her lips. “It’s difficult to say, sir. They do have a longer trek than we do.”

“That they do. Although, Camp Dragonhead is prized of an aetheryte. It’s possible they took the short way, provided they attuned to it, of course.” He said, more to himself before looking at his second in command. “Lucia, are you smiling?”

“Forgive me sir, it’s just that you seem...happier than usual.”

He barked out a laugh. “I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t looking forward to this day. We’re going to meet the Warrior of Light for Halone’s sake! This is the woman that has slain primals like they were mere snow wolf pups! Not to mention her routing the Empire, defeating a weapon of insurmountable strength, and killing Gaius van Baelsar in the process. I admit I was skeptical when I first heard the tales, but then she wandered into Coerthas seeking an airship to vanquish Garuda; and not only did she find her airship, she ferreted out a false inquisitor, cleared Lord Francel of heresy and returned the Stone Vigil to House Durendaire. An outsider gaining the cooperation of one of the high houses is a feat in and of itself, but three out of four? There’s also her recent discovery of the possible lair of the heretics. All of this for a nation that no doubt treated her unkindly when she first arrived. I shall strive to show her that her experiences in no way represent the whole of Ishgard.”

“If we are to acquire their aid, showing them true Ishgardian hospitality would indeed work in our favor.” Lucia replied.

“Indeed, but not only that, I do not wish to sour this budding friendship she seems to be acquiring with our great nation. Young Alphinaud will no doubt try to rope Ishgard back into the Eorzean Alliance, and though I must regretfully deny him, I can only hope they will be receptive to our plight.”

Lucia chose her words carefully. “Given her past actions and the accolades she’s received from Lord Haurchefant, she does not strike me as one to turn a blind eye to those in need.”

“Lord Haurchefant does indeed have nothing but glowing reviews for her. He has sung her praises on several occasions of how kind she is and how she treats his knights with the utmost respect. Perhaps one day she’ll show the same courtesy to the Temple Knights.” He said, wistfully.

“Given the opportunity sir, I’ve no doubt she would.” The hyur replied, amused.

Aymeric beamed. “Well, I suppose I’m getting ahead of myself. I haven’t even met her and here I am imagining her treating with the Temple Knights.”

“Rumor has it she purportedly wields the arcane instead of the sword.”

He nodded. “Her magicks are unparalleled, from what I’m told.”

“Then let us be glad she fights on our side.”

“Agreed.” The lord commander looked ahead. “Aha! We’re almost there. Let us make haste.”

Lucia hid a laugh behind her hand as Aymeric kicked his chocobo into a gallop. It was good to see him happy, even if he prattled on like a schoolboy with a crush. Though, she supposed he deserved this small reprieve. Despite all the good this meeting could bring, she couldn’t shake the feeling things were going to get much worse… Urging her own chocobo to go faster, she followed the lord commander into the camp.

The pair handed off their mounts to a squire and made their way to the main chamber. Lord Haurchefant stood immediately upon their entrance and greeted them warmly. “Ser Aymeric! Commander Lucia! Welcome back to Camp Dragonhead.”

“Always a pleasure, Lord Haurchefant.” Aymeric replied. “Tell me, have our friends from Revenant’s Toll arrived yet?”

“That eager to meet the Warrior of Light, are we?” Haurchefant teased. “Not that I blame you, of course. I’d feel the same were our roles reversed, but alas, neither her nor Master Alphinaud have arrived yet. In the meantime, why not warm yourself by the fire and have a drink.”

“As appealing as that sounds, I’m afraid sitting will only make the waiting go by even slower. I think I shall take a walk and see how your knights are faring.” He said, taking his leave before Lucia could follow.

“I shall come fetch you the moment they arrive.” Haurchefant called after him and turned to Lucia after Aymeric had left.. “The lord commander is in exceptionally high spirits today. Dare I say the man is practically giddy.”

“He was quite...animated on our ride over.” Lucia said, carefully. “All he did was speak of the Warrior of Light. He’s been following her exploits for quite some time.”

“It’s hard not to.” Haurchefant agreed. “Celaena is a hell of a woman.”

“So I’ve heard. I look forward to meeting her. If you’ll excuse me. I should be getting back to the lord commander.”

“Of course,” the knight said. “I will await here for their arrival.”

------

The cold air hit them like a slap in the face as they materialized into Camp Dragonhead. “Confound this climate!” Alphinaud bemoaned. “I don’t think I’ll ever get used to the cold.”

Celaena blew out a breath, watching it cloud before her eyes. “I kind of like it. I’ll gladly take it over the oven that is Ul’dah and Thanalan. Besides, you were the one that suggested we use the aetheryte network since we were in a hurry. What did you expect, jumping from one place to another.”

The younger man huffed, ignoring her barb. “Lord Haurchefant awaits. Let us get inside and out of this infernal weather.”

The pair descended the steps from the aetheryte and into the main chamber of the camp. Walking up to Lord Haurchefant’s desk, she was greeted with his usual enthusiasm. “Ah, Celaena! Ever a welcome sight. Our hearths have been stoked to blazing in preparation for your arrival. It would not do such a distinguished personage to catch cold whilst enjoying our hospitality.”

“It’s good to see you again, Lord Haurchefant.” Celaena said, smiling.

“The gesture is most appreciated.” Alphinaud said. “I fear I shall ever struggle in cold climes.”

“...Ah, good Master Alphinaud. An honor, as always.”

“Likewise, Lord Haurchefant. Forgive us yet another imposition--I fear we have relied overmuch on your aid since you so generously assisted us in locating the Enterprise. ”

“Nonsense!” He waved them off. “Any debts incurred have long since been repaid. Besides, who can say what the future may bring? House Fortemps may even seek the aid of your newly formed Crystal Braves. In any case, I am simply delighted that the Holy See is at last willing to grant you an audience. No doubt your discoveries at Snowcloak helped to justify the decision. This recent resurgence in heretical activity is of grave concern to us all. But to the matter at hand: Ser Aymeric arrived in Camp Dragonhead earlier, and I am told he is eager to meet with you at your first convenience.” He glanced pointedly at the summoner. “You are doubtless weary from your journey and desirous to rest awhile by the warmth of our hearth...But if you are willing to forgo such comforts, pray inform the knight stationed outside the intercessory. He will grant you entrance and send word to the other attendees.”

“As inviting as your hearth sounds, I think it best we proceed to the intercessory forthwith.” Alphinaud replied, looking up at the older woman.

“Agreed. I believe we’ve made Ser Aymeric wait long enough.”

“He will be most happy to hear that, especially from you.” Haurchefant grinned. “As this purportedly concerns House Fortemps as well, I shall also be joining you once I have finished some paperwork here.”

“We shall see you anon.” Celaena replied, heading toward the intercessory

------------

Aymeric mulled about the camp, willing the time to go faster, when he overheard a nearby conversation, making his ears perk up. “Did you see her?”

“See who? There is more than a fair share of women at this camp.” The older man replied, annoyed.

“The Warrior of Light!” The young knight said excitedly. “I saw her descending from the aetheryte tower not but a bell ago! Do you think she’s here to fight the heretics?”

“Whatever her business here, it is none of ours. Get back to work.”

“Lord commander.” A voice said, interrupting his eavesdropping. “Master Alphinaud Leveilleur and Mistress Celaena Fireheart await you in the intercessory.”

He cleared his throat. “Thank you ser. I will be there anon.” Turning towards his second in command and failing to hide his glee, he said, “Come Lucia. They’re here.”

------

Celaena paced in the intercessory, her Ifrit-egi trailing after her. Why do I suddenly feel nervous? She mused. It’s not like I’ve never met those in power before , but this was a request to specifically meet me. Why? She ran through a myriad of reasons in her head before the click of the door made her jump and Haurchefant’s smiling visage greeted her. He must have noticed her agitation, for he said, “Have faith my friend. You need only state your case with confidence and clarity.”

“That’s the thing. I’m not sure what exactly my case is.” She replied. “All I know is my presence was specifically requested for this meeting, and that’s it. It’s quite frustrating to be honest.”

Haurchefant chuckled. “Insular as Ishgard is, your deeds have, in fact, reached the ears of the Holy See. Between you and I, Ser Aymeric has been wanting to meet you for some time, he just lacked the occasion to do so.”

“You mean I now have something he wants.” She retorted, smirking. “Any idea what that might be?”

“Oh, I can think of a few.” He replied cryptically. “I say, where is Master Alphinaud?”

Celaena rolled her eyes. “I swear that boy has a bladder the size of a kupo nut.”

Their laughter was interrupted by the door opening once more. Alphinaud stepped into the room followed by quite possibly the most beautiful man she had ever seen. He was tall, even by elezen standards, soft black waves fell across his forehead, framing his impossibly blue eyes. Long ears and a slender, but chiseled face gave way to blue, black, and gold armor that glinted in the firelight while a peculiar looking sword of blue steel rested at his hip . Well, this meeting will be pleasant to look at, at least. She thought, their eyes meeting

Aymeric tried his best to not gape at her. She had been laughing at something with Lord Haurchefant when they had walked in, and the way it made her bright green eyes light up had him aching to know what the joke was. But here she was--the elezen woman he had heard so much about before his very eyes. Her short purple hair was spiked up in the back while long, pointy bangs fell over the right side of her face. The black and blue cloth armor clung to her lithe frame like a second skin and she bore no weapons save for a thick tome at her side and a strange, flaming creature floating behind her. He swallowed thickly. She was no conventional beauty for sure, but he found her intimidatingly gorgeous. The clink of Lucia’s armor brought him back to reality. “Commander Leveilleur.”He said, not taking his eyes off of her. “It is both an honor and a pleasure to meet you. I am Aymeric, lord commander of the Temple Knights.”

“Alphinaud Leveilleur, at your service.” The younger man replied. “Your reputation precedes you, Ser Aymeric. I think we will find that we have much in common.”

He nodded, turning to Celaena. “Speaking of reputations, yours towers over us all. Does it not?”

“It does indeed, Lord Commander.” The hyuran woman behind him stated, Haurchefant nodding in agreement.

“I am not too proud to admit I have followed your activities with an interest bordering on fascination. Full glad was I to learn that you would be joining us.” He smiled.

By the Twelve, even his voice is nice . “Full glad am I to be here, Ser Aymeric. I thank you for inviting me, though I am a bit perplexed as to the reason for this meeting.”

Inquisitive too . He made a mental note. “Well then, shall we begin?”

He watched as she took her seat in the nearest chair, the creature following after her like a flaming pet. I’ll have to inquire about that later. He thought. Unfortunately for him, she caught him staring at her egi and with a flick of her hand, the thing folded in on itself and disappeared.

“Sorry.” She said, sheepishly. “Force of habit.”

Also cute.  

Taking his seat in the ornate chair across from her, he was barely able to utter a word before Alphinaud launched into his diatribe about the benefits of Ishgard rejoining the Eorzean Alliance. Though the request was expected, the boy’s fervor was not. “Once again, I must respectfully disagree.” He stated.

“On what grounds?” Alphinaud demanded.

Aymeric inhaled slowly and calmly explained how the Holy See saw the primal threat as a Gridanian affair and that Ishgard does not interfere in the internal affairs of other nations. “Even were that not the case, our forces are wholly committed to the Dravanian conflict. We have not the knights to spare.” He could see the boy’s agitation grow as he brought up the Empire’s history and how it was agreed it was only a matter of time before they resumed their campaign in Eorzea.

“Then surely it would be in our best interests to present a united front?” The boy asked, exasperated.

“Mayhap one day, but not yet .” Aymeric replied pointedly, bringing up Gaius van Baelsar’s death and how it was highly unlikely the Imperials were going to emerge from behind the walls of their castra any time soon.

“Alphinaud,” Celaena interjected, warning in her voice. “Let us not shoot the messenger. We are here at his behest and you have not allowed him to get a word in edgewise.”

Halone bless her. Aymeric was a patient man, but this futile argument and its circular logic was starting to wear on his nerves.

“Forgive me, but if Ishgard’s position has not changed, why did you agree to this meeting?”

“It was not only as a representative of Ishgard that I came here.”

Alphinaud looked dumbfounded. “Pardon?”

“It is not within my power to change Ishgardian policy, regardless of my personal feelings. There is, however, one area in which I may exert a measure of influence. Concerns have been raised over the supplies House Fortemps has offered to Revenant’s Toll. These have led to calls for restrictions on the provision of aid to foreign powers. I can continue to ensure the shipments continue unabated.” He smiled smugly.

“Ser Aymeric, we would be in your debt!” Haurchefant exclaimed happily.

“No, you would not, for I require something in exchange.” He turned to Celaena, a knowing smile on her face.

“And this is the real reason why we are here, I am assuming?” She questioned.

And sharp as a tack. “Of late, there has been a flurry of Dravanian activity, the purpose of which was not immediately clear. However, our astrologians have since observed alarming changes in the heavens. The dragon star waxes unnaturally bright, and there are whispers that it portends the resurrection of Midgardsormr.”

“The fallen guardian of Silvertear Falls? That’s absurd!” Alphinaud scoffed, earning him a pointed look from the summoner.

“Full many times have I gazed upon the dragon’s corpse, still wound around the Agrius , and wondered how different our world might be if it lived to plague the skies. I do not know, and I do not wish to know. Nor does any son of Ishgard. Yet the mere presence of Dravanian forces is not sufficient grounds to send knights to Mor Dhona, whatever our astrologians say. As I told you before, we have not the forces to spare.

Realization appeared on the young boy’s face. “...But we do. So you will intervene on our behalf if we agree to watch over the Keeper of the Lake.”

“Do you accept these terms?” The lord commander asked.

Thinking for a moment, he replied, “I do. I will see that you are kept abreast of any developments. I regret that we could not come to a similar agreement on other matters, but I understand that you are not at liberty to make such decisions. Nevertheless, I hope that what we have accomplished here today will serve to demonstrate to your countrymen that we can work together towards a common goal. Mayhap we shall look back on this moment as the first step towards a united Eorzea.”

“Mayhap we shall, commander.”

Opening her mouth to agree, the door flew open and a panting knight rushed into the room. “What is the meaning of this?!” Haurchefant demanded.

“The caravan my lord! It’s been attacked!” He breathed. “It was Iceheart, my lord!”

Everyone in the room looked at each other and back at the knight. “What?! By the Fury! All our precautions were for naught?!” He paused. “I must apprise my knights of the situation. If you’ll excuse me.” Haurchefant said, exiting the room.

“I shall assist him.” Lucia said, following after.

“And I shall inform Revenant’s Toll of the situation.” Alphinaud said, leaving the two of them alone.

“And what of you, Celaena?” Aymeric asked, enjoying the way her name fell from his lips. “What will you do?”

“Well I certainly can’t stand by and do nothing. Ishgard may not interfere with the affairs of other nations, but I do.” She smirked.

There’s that boldness I’ve heard so much about. “So, does this mean you’ll be staying in Coerthas for a while?”

“Would you like that, Lord Commander?” She asked, a hint of amusement in her voice.

Aymeric started, his mouth falling open slightly before he regained his composure. “Yes, of course. I mean, any aid offered by the Warrior of Light is most certainly welcome.”

Her smile grew. “Well then, seeing as how my previous efforts at tracking down the heretics were rebuked in favor of involving the Temple Knights, I imagine we’ll be working together quite closely from now on.”

“Yes, I imagine we shall.” He said, his heart soaring as he studied her face. “I must say, you are much more talkative than I expected. Rumors claim you’re the strong and silent type..”

She barked out a laugh. “One, you shouldn’t believe everything you hear, and two, you could say that about anyone placed in the same room as Alphinaud. As you have well observed, once he gets going, it’s hard to foster any sort of conversation. Do forgive him. He can come across as brash and sometimes downright rude, but he truly means every word he says. It’s largely why he founded the Crystal Braves.”

“He certainly does not lack passion, I’ll give him that. Do you agree with him? That all of Eorzea must stand united?”

“I do, but I also agree with you. Now is not Ishgard’s time. The more you insist upon someone to do something, the less likely they are willing to do it. It is folly to think a country that has isolated itself for decades will completely upend its ways and reverse policy based on a few lines of dialogue, however rational it may be. Our friendship with Lord Haurchefant and House Fortemps as well as our meeting today has no doubt opened the door, if but a crack. It will take work on both sides to open it further. I can only speak for myself, but I am willing to put in that effort.”

Aymeric couldn’t help but smile. “As am I. It will take time, but time spent in good company is never wasted.”

“Then we are in agreement!” She beamed. “Let us go see what has happened with those heretics, shall we?”

“You go ahead. I must inform headquarters the outcome of our meeting. I shall join you anon”

“Very well. I shall see you soon Ser Aymeric. I do hope our chat was fascinating enough for you.” She smiled, bowing slightly before walking out of the intercessory.

Aymeric blew out a sigh and sat back down. “You truly are something else.” He said softly.

-------

“Well, Lord Haurchefant, it seems we will be imposing on you for a while longer.” Celaena said after learning the status of the supplies.

“Nonsense! How many times must I repeat myself? You,” he tapped her on the nose, “are always welcome here. I shall have rooms prepared and ready for you once you have returned from investigating the caravan.”

“Thank you, as always.” She smiled warmly. “Hopefully this won’t take long.”

“With your talents, it shant take but a bell. Go. We’ll be waiting.”

She nodded in reply and walked out to summon her chocobo. Not long after, Ser Aymeric walked into the room. “Forgive my tardiness. What news of the caravan?” Lord Haurchefant filled him in. “I see. Well, after finally meeting her, I’ve no doubt she’ll be able to ferret out something. The stories scarcely do her justice. I see why you admire her so. That woman is a force of nature.”  

Haurchefant laughed. “I hate to say I told you so, my friend, but I told you so. At least one upside to this fiasco is that she has decided to grace us with her presence a while longer e’re we attempt to solve what has happened. Master Alphinaud tells me you two chatted with each other after the meeting. Dare I ask what you two spoke of?” Aymeric obliged. “She truly said that about helping Ishgard?”

“Indeed she did.”

“Halone certainly smiles upon her.” Haurchefant said. “I have a feeling she’s going to blow that door wide open someday. Change is coming, I can feel it. However, until its arrival, we can do naught but wait. Drink?”

“I’d love one.” Aymeric replied.

--------

Pushing the door open, Celeaena shook the snow from her hair as she moved to her friends to report her findings. Looking around, she asked, “Where’s Ser Aymeric?”

“Regretfully, he had to return to the city. You can be sure I’ll relay any information back to him.” Lucia said.

“What news have you for us, my friend? Alphinaud inquired.

“Well, the knights weren’t able to offer much but speculation. They stole the supplies and tipped the wagon, which likely means they had their own, less conspicuous way of transporting the goods. He did mention a sole survivor, a squire, recovering at the Observatorium, so I headed there after. I had to wait a bit for him to wake up, but I believe what little he was able to glean could be of help. The heretics were dressed as pilgrims, seemingly lost souls trekking north. The leader of the caravan reached out to them, asking if they needed help. A young woman with silver hair seemed to accept his offer, until she stabbed him. Then the bloodbath began. The squire suffered a blow to the head and was knocked unconscious, but when he came to, he had the foresight to feign death and listen. He said they spoke of deliverance, resurrection, and someone called Shiva. ” Celaena recounted.

Haurchefant blanched. “It seems the Lady Iceheart does not scruple to sully her hands with blood.”

“Who is this ‘Shiva’ the heretics spoke of?” Alphinaud asked

“...Have you not read a single line of the Enchiridion Master Alphinaud?” Lucia asked. “Shiva was a traitor to kith and kin--an apostate who lay down with dragons .”

“Now, now, we cannot expect all foreigners to know Ishgardian scripture so well--particularly when it comes to the patron saint of heretics.” Haurchefant countered.

Celaena and Alphinaud looked at each other wide eyed. “Wait--you say she is their patron saint? Oh no… It all makes sense now… Lord Haurchefant, what was the caravan’s cargo?” The boy asked.

“Ah…. If I recall correctly, the Diamond Forge had requested a rather large quantity of crystals--”

“Then we’re about to have a problem on our hands…” Celaena stated, Haurchefant and Lucia looking at her quizzically. Alphinaud answered.

“Do you not see? Iceheart and her followers intend to summon Shiva, as a beast tribe would a primal! Why else would they go to such lengths to secure crystals?”

“Then we need to figure out how the heretics are getting into Snowcloak and where they intend on completing the summoning. Last I was here, House Durendaire was leading the reconnaissance effort in that regard. Do their knights still patrol the area?” Celaena asked.

“Yes. As I understand it, since the incident at Snowcloak they have redoubled their efforts in patrolling the area.” Alphinaud stated.

“I believe it’s time to pay our friend Lord Drillemont a visit and see if there have been any updates to the situation that may help us determine precisely where the heretics are hiding.” She said.

“Agreed. Though I would like to head there as soon as possible, night will be here soon and I believe it’s best we wait until the morning.”

“...I shall inform the lord commander at once. Lord Haurchefant, you would agree that discretion is of paramount concern?” Lucia asked.

“Of course. I trust we can continue on your continued support, Master Alphinaud?”

“The Scions of the Seventh Dawn are sworn to combat the primal threat. Our support is a given. I will need to send word to my brethren in Revenant’s Toll. Our entire order must turn its efforts to the prevention of this summoning.” He turned to Celaena. “Naturally, that includes you--though I’m sure you would not miss this for the world.”

She chuckled. “These heretics have caused our friends enough trouble and they need to stop. Of course I’m in.”

“Then it’s settled.” Haurchefant said. “I will send a message to Whitebrim Front to expect you on the morrow. You two should rest. You’ve done more than enough for today.”

“Thank you, Lord Haurchefant.” Celaena replied. “We will.”

“I will return to Ishgard immediately and inform Ser Aymeric of all that has transpired.” Lucia stated, saluting and taking her leave.

WIth just the two of them left, Alphinaud blew out a breath. “Well, today certainly could have gone better.”

“The shipments to Revenant’s Toll will continue unabated, so there’s that. Not to mention we gleaned some valuable information regarding the summoning of a primal. It’s good we got here when we did. As capable as these knights are, I don’t think they’d fare too well against one.”

“You’re right. Tis a shame we didn’t make any progress regarding the Eorzean Alliance though.”

“Did I not tell you to expect an answer you didn’t want to hear? Badgering them every time you come here will do no good.” She looked at the boy. “Alphinaud, I say this out of love, but sometimes you really need to shut up and listen to what people have to say. You have this habit of talking at people rather than with them. Ser Aymeric could barely get in a word before you verbally assaulted him about the alliance.” She held her hand up when it was clear he wanted to interrupt. “See what I mean? Let me finish. I know you have a lot to prove with the Crystal Braves and I agree with you about a united Eorzea, I do, but it takes two people to open a dialogue. I know Ishgard will come around, but we needn't force it. Patience is key here.”

Alphinaud huffed. “...I thank you for your honesty. I suppose I could have been more accommodating.”

“You’re a smart guy, but not everyone sees the big picture as quickly as you.” She wrapped her arm around his shoulders. “Besides, maybe this whole primal threat will be the eye opener they need.”

“Your unfettering optimism can be quite annoying at times.” He smiled. “So, what will you do now?”

“I’m going to take Lord Haurchefant’s advice and rest with a nice glass of Ishgardian brandy by the fire. Care to join me?”

“I’d love to.”

------------

Aymeric looked at the clock in his office then out the window at the darkening skies. What on earth could they have discovered that’s taking so long? He thought.

As if on cue, Lucia walked through the door. “I have returned, lord commander.”

“What news from Camp Dragonhead?” He asked. She nodded and recounted the events of the evening. “By the Fury.... A primal? On Coerthan lands?” He shook his head. “The Temple Knights will pledge their full support in the eradication of this menace and I should like to personally inform Lord Drillemont of our assistance. We make for Whitebrim Front in the morning.”

“Of course, Lord Commander.” Lucia replied.

Sitting back in his chair, he said, “Well, the evening certainly took a turn, but what did you think of her? Of the Warrior of Light?”

Lucia chose her words carefully. “She certainly seems more than a capable warrior, both on and off the battlefield. She struck me as both logical and rational and I admire her willingness to jump in and help. Twas her idea to seek the counsel of Lord Drillemont after she recalled House Durendaire was leading the reconnaissance effort at Snowcloak.”

Aymeric beamed. “So she’s tactical as well… Incredible. To say that she exceeded my expectations would be a gross understatement. I believe we have made an invaluable ally and friend today.”

Lucia nodded. “And it seems she will be treating with the Temple Knights much earlier than expected.”

“Ha!” He laughed. “Indeed she shall. If that is all to report, you are dismissed for the evening. I shall see you in the morn.”

“She did ask where you were when she returned from her investigation and seemed disappointed when I informed her you had returned to the city.” She saluted. “Good night, Lord Commander.”

Aymeric watched the door shut and smiled. So, she thought of me. He mused. The day hadn’t gone to plan, that much was certain, but grim though the situation was, he found himself excited at the prospect of working side by side with her. Perhaps I’ll even get to witness her fight! He thought, standing up and walking to the window. The snow was beginning to pick up again; a wall of white whipping about in the wind, and he hoped she wasn’t cold at the drafty camp. Were it up to him, her and Alphinaud both would be tucked safely behind Ishgard’s walls with him at the Congregation of Knights Most Heavenly. “Stay warm. I shall see you tomorrow.” He said softly.

[celaena-writes]

Promises Kept Pt. 3

Chapter 3

Summary:

A new primal threat looms on the horizon...

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Covered in dirt and Ixali feathers, Celaena marched back to Ishgard and to the Congregation. All eyes turned to her when she pushed open the door. Aymeric set his papers down and rushed to greet her. “It brings me joy to see you safely returned to us, Celaena. What news from Xelphatol?”

“It is good to be back. Though we have another problem on our hands, we were able to prevent the summoning entirely.” She replied.

“...Then we were not too late. On behalf of Ishgard, I offer you my deepest thanks. As for we who remained behind--Mistress Y’shtola has been tending to Mistress Alisaie in your absence… and I am pleased to report she has regained consciousness. I imagine you have many questions, especially given your recent encounter with the Warriors of Darkness. I know I do. Come, let me show you to her room. Do not worry, her condition is much improved. She is a resilient one, much like her brother.”

A wave of relief washed over the summoner. “No, thank you Ser Aymeric. That’s two friends you’ve now helped rescue from the brink of death. Should I ever find myself in that position, I pray they bring me here.”

Though Aymeric knew she was trying to lighten the mood, his expression grew dark. “I don't even want to imagine that. Come, let us see Mistress Alisaie.”

Shocked by the utter seriousness of his tone, she could only nod before following him up the stairs. Greetings were exchanged, Alisaie reassured everyone she was feeling much better, and Celaena recounted the events that happened at Xelphatol, ending with the Warriors of Darkness’s claims they were trying to save their own world.

“...As if we needed any further confirmation they are in league with the Ascians.” Thancred scoffed. “...But to save another world ? I think not.”

Alphinaud reasoned there could be some truth to their story while Y’shtola had a question of her own. “You were following these people, Alisaie. Why?”

Alisaie explained of the rumors she’d heard of a gifted band of adventurers supposedly sworn to slaying primals in the Scions’ stead. It was in her pursuit of them she had come to know of their involvement with the Ascians.

“Forgive me, but if these Warriors of Darkness mean to bring about another Calamity, to what end do they hunt primals?” Aymeric asked.

Alisaie continued, explaining how it was to prompt an escalation and goad the beastmen into summoning even stronger gods, that with primals being slain left and right and Nidhogg being bested by the hand of man it was only natural they wanted to defend themselves.

The Lord Commander closed his eyes and grimly stated, “Power answered with greater power, death with more death. A vicious cycle fueled by fear and hatred. I know it's like all too well.”

“Indeed.” The younger girl replied. “The Ascians sow discord and desperation, and the Warriors of Darkness reap the harvest. And so it continues. Yet, that is not the extent of their ambitions. The Ascian himself observed that once the powerless realize that the old gods have failed them, they will have little recourse but to look for a new one.”

Celaena looked grim. “...We cannot let that happen.” Y’shtola said, echoing her thoughts.

Thancred stepped forward and volunteered information that he and Alisaie had uncovered evidence the Ascians were somehow supplying the beast tribes with a constant supply of crystals, and that severing their supply lines should significantly slow down their escalation. The group in agreement, Y’shtola volunteered herself and Krile to examine the Ixal in Xelphatol.

“Hm. Then I, for my part, pledge to lead a similar investigation into the origin of the Gnath’s supply.”

“Ser Aymeric?” Alphinaud questioned.

“As a member of the Eorzean Alliance, Ishgard is honorbound to play an active role in maintaining the security of the realm. You might also say that I have some personal motivation, given the Ascians' dealings with my father. However, I make no secret of the fact that my knowledge of primal beings is scant at best. As such, I shall be most grateful if one of your order were to assist me.” He tossed a fleeting glance in Celaena’s direction.

Before she could even open her mouth, Thancred had volunteered. “Allow me, Ser Aymeric. I have dealt with the Gnath before.”

Hiding his disappointment, he simply nodded in agreement. Alphinaud, Alisaie, and Celaena were to visit Urianger at the Waking Sands to glean any new information he may have of the primal threat, but not before Tataru had Alisaie try on the new outfit she had created for her. Aymeric had to give the lalafell credit; she had a keen eye for design, and to create such a well fitting garment in the short amount of time the girl had been in Ishgard was very impressive. He thought back to how Celaena had spoken of Tataru’s lament that she couldn’t design something for their dinner together and smiled softly to himself.

Dare I wonder what she would make for the Warrior of Light…  He mused, heading for his office.

------------

Though Alphinaud and Alisaie had wished to depart for the Waking Sands immediately, Celaena had convinced them to wait for a bell or two, claiming she had to gather something she had forgotten at House Fortemps. While that part was true, she also wanted to say goodbye to Aymeric. So, after grabbing her items and bidding farewell to Lord Edmont and the rest of the house, she found her feet on the familiar path back to the Congregation. She spoke with the knight stationed outside his office before he knocked and opened the door. “I wish to not be distracted.” Aymeric called, a hint of annoyance in his voice.

“My apologies, Lord Commander.” The knight replied. “But the Warrior of Light wishes to speak with you.”

“That is a distraction I will make an exception for. Please, send her in.” The knight saluted and the elezen entered. “Celaena.” He smiled, standing up. “What a welcome surprise. I thought you’d be halfway to Thanalan by now. To what do I owe the pleasure?”

“I’m afraid it will be some time before I’ll be in Ishgard again, and I couldn’t leave without giving you a proper goodbye.”

His gaze softened. “I’d be lying if I said I’m not disappointed you’re going to the Waking Sands instead of staying here in Ishgard to help with the Gnath.”

She nodded sadly. “Loathe though I am to leave, Thancred’s knowledge of the Gnath far exceeds my own and will serve you well.”

“I understand he lived among them for quite some time.”

“Indeed. After the Lifestream spit him out as bare-assed as his nameday, it was they who outfitted him with proper clothing in exchange for his hunting skills.” Aymeric gaped at her. “What? Spend enough time in Limsa Lominsa and your vocabulary is bound to pick up a few choice phrases. She said, chuckling.

He shook his head, grinning. “Things are never dull with you around.”

“I-I should be going. Alphinaud and Alisaie are waiting.” She said, after a pregnant pause.

He closed the distance between the two of them and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into a hug. Decorum be damned. “I shall miss you my friend.”

Celaena’s eyes widened as he drew her to his chest, her body stiffening in surprise before she relaxed and tentatively returned the gesture. By the fucking Fury was it nice. It had been far too long since anyone had touched her like that. “And I you.” She replied, her head nesting against his shoulder.

Though Aymeric was sure she could feel how fast his heart was beating even through his armor, he responded by hugging her even tighter. He wanted, nay, needed to sear this feeling into his memory. The way her tall, lithe body fit so well against his, the tickle of her hair against his cheek, the feeling of her arms encircling his torso… He closed his eyes, breathing in her scent before reluctantly letting her go. “Come, I shall walk you out.”

A nod was all she could manage as she willed her heart to slow. That was unexpected . She thought, following him to the door. Definitely not unwelcome, but definitely unexpected. Before she could ponder the gesture any more, the pair were greeted by Thancred walking into the Congregation.

“I thought you had left already.” He quipped.

“I’m on my way out. As I don’t know when I will next be in Ishgard, I thought I would say goodbye.”

Thancred raised his eyebrows, a cocky grin appearing on his face. “I see. Well, worry not my dear, I will take good care of the Lord Commander in your stead whilst you are away.”

If there was one thing her fellow Scion certainly had, it was the audacity. “See to it that you do, my darling, or I shall be most displeased.” She fired back.

“Hah!” He laughed. “Get out of here before Alphinaud sends the whole of the Temple Knights looking for you.”

She turned to Aymeric, who was stifling a laugh beneath his hand. “Good luck with the Gnath you two. May we all find the source of these crystal supplies quickly and end this. If you need anything, I’m only a linkpearl away.”

Aymeric smiled warmly. “May the Fury watch over and keep you safe.”

“Give the twins our regards.” Thancred added.

“I shall. Now, I should go before that boy really does send the Temple Knights after me. Hopefully I will see you both sooner rather than later.” She smiled one last time before striding out the door and towards the airship docks.

“She is something else.” Aymeric remarked.

Thancred snorted. “You have no idea…”

-----------

Celaena watched Ishgard grow smaller the higher the airship climbed and sighed. She had a lot of emotions to process, and fortunately had a long airship ride to do so. “Something troubling you, my friend?” Alphinaud asked.

She shook her head. “Not really. It’s just strange to be leaving for an extended period of time, not knowing when we’ll return.”

“Indeed. It has been our home for many moons now.”

“I’ll miss it.” She said, wistfully.

“Well, after talking with Tataru,” Alisaie interjected, “I dare say there will be plenty to command your attention upon your return.” Celaena raised her eyebrows at the younger woman.

“But of course there will.” Alphinaud stated plainly. “That is true wherever she goes.”

Celaena and Alisaie looked at each other and burst out laughing.

“And just what is so funny?” He asked, irritatedly.

This only made Alisaie laugh harder. “Oh Alphinaud…. I’ll tell you when you’re older.”

Celaena turned her eyes back to the shrinking city as the twins continued to bicker with one another. I will return. I promise.

Notes:

Well, that wound up being much longer than I intended, but it didn't feel right to just leave off everything that happened after dinner. This had been living in my head rent free ever since I first watched that cutscene and it needed to come out. Where will Celaena go next? I'm not sure. This was more entertaining to write than I thought it would be, so I may continue with the main story or I may make up my own filler episodes. We shall see. If you've made it this far, I thank you. I hope you enjoyed reading this and I will see you in the future.

AO3 link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/32639998

[celaena-writes]

Promises Kept pt. 2

Chapter 2

Summary:

Though the conversation flows as freely as the wine, all good things must come to an end...

Chapter Text

They made their way to the dining room, Aymeric stopping to pull out her chair before taking the seat across from her. The servants supplied them with more wine before disappearing into a side door. “I do hope tonight’s dinner will be to your liking.” He said.

Celaena placed her napkin on her lap and took a sip of her wine. “I’m sure everything will be delicious.” The servants returned with two covered platters on a serving cart. Placing the plates in front of the two of them, they removed the covers and her mouth started watering. “This smells amazing!”

He smiled, picking up his knife and fork. “Please, enjoy.”

Celaena had to slow herself from digging into the meal like a ravenous beast. The roasted meat was covered in a thick sauce with seasoned popotoes and vegetables accompanying it. She noticed Aymeric watching her with a smirk on his face as she took a bite of the meat. It practically melted in her mouth and she had to keep herself from moaning. “This is the best meat I’ve ever had. I would love to have the recipe.”

“It’s the Borel recipe for roast dragon that’s been handed down for generations.” He replied.

She stopped mid-bite and stared at him incredulously. “What?”

Aymeric stared back before breaking into laughter. “A jest my friend! A jest!”

“And a very poor one at that, Aymeric de Borel! Are you trying to restart the war?”

“Yes, it was in poor taste, I admit, but the look on your face was priceless.”

By this point she was laughing as well. “I will get you back for this, mark my words.”

“I shall look forward to it.” He replied, sipping his wine.

“Even if it was dragon, my statement still stands. This is the best meat I’ve ever tasted. Meat is always hit or miss when you’re in the field.”

“Ah yes, that bandersnatch we ate on our way to the Churning Mists was more akin to boot leather than meat. Speaking of which, I do believe you were going to tell me of your travels to parley with the dragons.”

She told him the finer details of Alphinaud’s plan and how it hinged on the locating of Lady Iceheart, the wine loosening her tongue as the meal continued. “And then, once we finally did locate her, she proceeded to tell us our plan to parley with Nidhogg was foolish. After Alphinaud suggested trying Hraesvelgr instead, she insisted she come with us.To say I was shocked is an understatement, but as you well know, she proved to be a most unexpected ally.”

“How did Estinien handle that one?”

Celaena laughed. “Oh how those two bickered with each other over things both large and small. Ysayle bristled any time he mentioned killing a dragon and when she spoke of the true history of man and dragon he called it heretical nonsense. I thought they were going to start swinging at each other that time, but Alphinaud was able to get the two of them to put aside their differences for the sake of the mission. Of course, Estinien had to have the last word and promptly told her the debate would be settled through the power of The Echo. Would that I could use my ability on command. Of course, he didn’t know  that Ysayle herself also possessed the gift and it was how she came to know of Hraesvelgr’s history..”

“He has always been a willful man.”

“And stubborn, and prideful.” She added.

Aymeric laughed. “Those too.”

“For example, we came upon a very large tree full of edible fruit on our way to Sohm Al. Even with our elezen height, there was no way we could have reached the fruit and climbing it was nigh impossible. When I asked him to use his jumping skills to get into the tree and pick the fruit for us, you’d think I had just insulted his entire lineage.”

“Did he do it?” He asked.

“Begrudgingly, after a lot of grumbling of how the skill was an art created for the slaying of dragons and not the mere picking of fruit.”

“That sounds like Estinien. I do hope he didn’t give you too much trouble.”

“It was endearing, in a way. He seemed a very lonely person, and though he grumbled a lot, I think the company did him some good. He seemed happier the longer the trip went on and the stronger our bond got.” She shrugged.

“He even bonded with Ysayle?”

“Even with Ysayle. Despite their bickering, I think he grew quite fond of her, though he’ll never admit it.”

“No, I suppose not.” Aymeric replied, mirth in his voice. “You mentioned meeting the Moogles of the clouds. Though I have met them as well, I would like to hear of your first meeting. Alphinaud mentioned it was quite the ordeal.”

“I dare say they proved to be almost as large of a challenge the dragons did.” She took another drink of wine and launched into the tale of their initial sighting of Moghan and how it took them all the way back to Gridania to seek the assistance of the Twelveswood Moogles. “Thanks to the Elder Seedseer’s diplomacy and Kuplo Kopp’s accompaniment, we were able to open a dialogue with them and learn of how to summon Hraesvelgr.”

“The horn.” Aymeric said, nodding his head.

“Yes, the horn, that bloody horn.” She laughed. “The moogles saw fit to give us a ‘Trial of Trustworthiness’ to determine if we were worthy enough to receive the thing.”

“A trial?” He chuckled. “What on earth could those moogles have you do?”

“Well, I had to pick flowers for a tonic that restores bounce to even the floppiest poms, teach some manners to some overeager Dravanian admirers, and look for an artistic masterpiece, which wound up being nothing more than a painted rock. Alphinaud said his trial amounted to little more than household chores, Estinien was sent to ‘chastise’ the local dragon population and amazed them with his jumping skills, and Ysayle was too enamored with their cuteness to tell me what she had to do. We did all of this only for Chief Moglin to tell us we were nothing more than a convenient distraction while they saw to the horn.”

“Oh no!” He exclaimed. “What was wrong with it?”

“It turns out it had been sat on and they needed time to repair and clean the thing. The fact that we were friends with Kuplo Kopp was apparently enough to determine we were trustworthy. The overstuffed furball just wanted the chores done and was quite pleased with how efficiently they had been done and how we had been goaded into doing them. At least he was until Estinien, quite literally, growled at him.”

Aymeric was in stitches. “To think the moogles would prove such harsh taskmasters! Forgive me, I did not know you had suffered so in your quest for the horn.”

“They certainly did not make it easy.” She laughed, recalling the use of the horn at the Zenith and their failure to parley with Hraesvelgr.

He looked at her fondly. “I must say, your spirited accounts always come as a welcome change from the arid reports which fill my days.”

The servant stepped in and asked if she would like more wine. Already feeling the previous glasses, she declined, turned to Aymeric and said, “I’m glad my tales help to ease your day. I’m happy to tell them.”

“Though I have lived in these lands my entire life, to hear you speak of them, there is much and more I have to see. Truly, yours was a marvelous journey.”

“Why not join me on the next? I’d love to have your company.” She asked.

The smile he gave lit up the whole room. “Hah! Well...truth be told, when I think back on the sweeping vistas of The Churning Mists, I do feel some slight pangs of wanderlust.... Alas, as much as I would like to accept your invitation, I fear my present duties with the House of Lords demand my undivided attention. Someday, perhaps.”

“I’ll hold you to that someday.” She smiled.

He smiled back then looked down at his lap, his expression thoughtful, almost regretful. “By your deeds you have helped us to lay the foundation for lasting reform.” He began, looking up. “The formation of the republic is but the beginning, for it is not only our system of governance which must needs change. We the people must learn to let go of our hatreds and rise above our bloody past. I only pray that I live long enough to see us achieve some measure of success--that I might know the lost did not die in vain.” Smiling, he continued. “I can still see you there, on the Steps of Faith, striding fearlessly towards the wyrm… If you could do that, who are we to balk at the challenges ahead?”

She felt a blush creep up to her cheeks. Maybe it was the wine, but hearing him talk of her deeds like that stirred something in her chest.“Nations are not built in a day, my friend. The people are no doubt traumatized by recent events, but they will heal over time, and so too will the city itself. I’ve no doubt Ishgard is in good hands. And though I’m no diplomat,  if there’s anything I can do to help, even if it’s just lending an ear to vent about all of your arid reports for the day, say the word and I’ll be there.” She replied.

Could she get any more perfect? Aymeric thought. Halone has truly blessed me by allowing this wonderful woman into my life.

“Thank you.” He said. “The question of how best to strengthen ties with the other great nations of Eorzea has been debated at length in the Lords and Commons as of late. As you may imagine, maintaining stability during this period of historic upheaval is our paramount concern. Nevertheless, we are greatly indebted to the Alliance for their support in the grand melee, and it would be remiss of us to not repay their faith in kind. Of course,” he added, “we owe you the greatest debt of all, and it is my hope that in extending our support to you and the Scions, we might also express our gratitude to our neighbors--nay, our fellow Eorzeans, whom we pray you will continue to protect. The Lords and Commons agree on very little, but not a soul in either house begrudges your order this offer of patronage. For all you have done and will do, we thank you.”

The man was positively beaming and she couldn’t help but return the expression. “I assure you I will do everything in my power to help wherever I can, and that includes relations with the Alliance. Ishgard has become my home just as much as that tiny island on the Rhotano and I will not stand to see it treated differently than any other nation. Again, anyone that wants to disagree is welcome to challenge me to a fight. Although, I think General Raubahn would take me up on that offer either way.”

To hear her call Ishgard her home made his heart soar. “A rematch for the ages!” He laughed, picking up his wine glass and raising it to hers. Drinking deep, he chose his words carefully before saying, “...May I ask you a personal question?” She nodded. “Now that the dust has settled, what will you do? Not as a Scion, I mean, but…” He paused. “What do you want for yourself?”

Me? She thought. I’ve been so preoccupied with everything that’s happened, the thought hasn’t even crossed my mind. She looked up at the man sitting across from her. I know what I don’t want, and that’s for this evening to end. She looked down, smiling. Opening her mouth to offer some form of response, she was interrupted when a House Fortemps knight burst into the room.

“Lord Commander, pray forgive the interruption.”

“News from House Fortemps?” Aymeric asked.

“An urgent message for the Warrior of Light. I was instructed to deliver it without delay.” The knight turned toward Celaena. “Master Thancred returned to the manor a short time ago, bearing an injured maiden. Master Leveilleur and Mistress Tataru are tending to her wounds, but they like not her chances. Respectfully, my lord--they have requested the Warrior of Light’s immediate presence.”

Celaena’s heart sank and she turned toward Aymeric with a grave expression. “You must go to them, my friend. And I shall come with you.” He said.

Thank the twelve for small favors. She thought. She had lost enough friends lately and was glad for his unwavering support. Nodding, the two of them strode from the dining room and out of the manor. After thanking the steward for his hospitality, she and Aymeric followed the knight to Fortemps Manor.

----------------------------------------

Though grim expressions greeted them upon entering the manor, Thancred gave Celaena a knowing look when she arrived with Aymeric. Before she could respond, a groan uttered from the couch. She looked over to find a carbon copy of Alphinaud laying there, her brother kneeling before her. “Is that…?” Aymeric asked.

“Alisaie, Alphinaud’s twin sister.” Thancred finished, looking back at the pair. “She ran afoul of the Warriors of Darkness.” Celaena’s eyes grew wide. “I had been tracking them since the ceremony at Falcon’s Nest. Little did I know I was not the only one. Evidently, she had learned of their activities and attempted to shadow them on her own. Poorly.” He added. “I rescued her in the Twelveswood, and together we fled north. But although I made every effort to cover our tracks, they caught up with us on the Ishgardian border, and in the ensuing struggle, Alisaie took an arrow to the shoulder. ‘Twas only after we made good our escape, I realized it was poisoned…”

Alphinaud stood up and walked over, his eyes ringed with red. “Thank you for coming so quickly. And you, Ser Aymeric.”

“Think nothing of it. How is she?”

The boy’s eyes cast downward and Celaena’s heart broke for him. “We have done all we can for now. Although the immediate danger has passed, the poison yet lingers in her blood…” He trailed off, before continuing to tell of how he and his sister had come to Eorzea to learn of the land their grandfather had given his life to save. How she refused to get involved with what she called “Eorzea’s squabbles” before going her own way. “For all of our differences, she is as dedicated as any Scion to the salvation of Eorzea. But more than that, she’s my sister… To be reunited with her only to lose her forever...Gods, even to speak the words...”

Celaena looked at Aymeric pleadingly. He offered a small smile before turning to the young man. “Take heart, Master Alphinaud. She will be attended by our most skilled chirurgeons.” He nodded once at Edmont and turned to the knight. “Bear Mistress Leveilleur to the infirmary at once. Apprise Captain Whitecape of the situation, and inform him that she is to be treated as my personal charge.”

Celaena breathed a sigh of relief. Captain Whitecape managed to bring Estinien back from the brink of death, so she knew the girl was in good hands. Admittedly, she had only met her briefly during the anniversary ceremonies for the Calamity, but admired her fiery spirit. As she looked at her friends, a weak voice emanated from the couch. “W-Wait… D-Don’t go… Please, come closer…” Nodding, the summoner walked over and knelt before Ailsaie. “The Warriors of Darkness are in league with the Ascians…” She croaked. “Slaughtering the primals is but the first step in their plan… They make for Xelphatol to bring about Garuda’s summoning… And to kill her… You must.... You must stop them.”

Alisae’s eyes drifted closed and Celaena looked at Alphinaud, the knowing look of determination on both their faces, and nodded. Tataru looked apologetically at the much taller woman and said, “I...I shall inform the others at once!”

In full commander mode, Aymeric turned to the rogue. “Master Thancred--I would ask that you accompany Mistress Leveilleur to the infirmary. Your knowledge of her injuries may well prove useful in determining her treatment.”

“Of course.” He replied.

Alphinaud mumbled to himself, the worry for his sister clear in his voice. “Did they not bring Estinien back from the brink of death? ...I am uncomfortably reminded of how he mocked me for praying at his bedside for days on end.” He looked up when he felt a hand on his shoulder. “What say you my friend? Shall we turn our attention to a matter whose conclusion we yet have the power to influence?”

“And here I thought I was going to get a night off.” She quipped. “I should change.”

“Wait, let us plan what we’re going to do first.” Alphinaud said before musing mostly to himself about the motivations of the Ascians and Warriors of Darkness for summoning primals only to kill them.

“What do you intend to do, Master Alphinaud?” Edmont asked, him and Aymeric walking over to the pair.

“There is much and more I do not understand, but I know this: a primal summoning cannot be ignored. Alisaie risked her life to uncover this plot, and we squander her gift at her peril. Celaena, will you accompany me to Xelphatol and help me stop the Ixal’s ritual?”

She looked at the three elezen staring at her and tapped her hand over her heart. “Do you even have to ask at this point?” Relief flooded Alphinaud’s face as he nodded. Edmont’s face remained impassive, and Aymeric looked pained before replacing it with his usual cool expression.

“Given that Ishgard shares a border with the Ixali homeland, we have a vested interest in the outcome of this ritual. We have been willing to suffer the beastmen’s intrusions into Coerthan lands to a point, but the summoning of a primal is something we cannot abide. You shall have our fastest airship Master Alphinaud. The mountains of Xelphatol are not easily traversed, and this endeavor demands all haste.”

“The gesture is most appreciated Ser Aymeric--but I fear an aerial approach is destined to fail. This is their homeland, after all, and Ixali dirigibles are not to be underestimated. No, experience tells me the only conceivable approach is by land. I believe it would be wiser to cross into Xelphatol by way of the mountain pass east of Camp Dragonhead.”

“In that case, I shall send instructions for a contingent of the camp’s knights to be at your disposal. They will secure you safe passage through the mountains, and escort you thence into Xelphatol. Though my men are unqualified to confront a primal, they are more than capable of contending with the Ixal.” Edmont proffered.  

“Thank you, Lord Edmont.”

Celaena finally spoke. “Well then, if you gentlemen will excuse me for a moment. I should change into something a bit more appropriate for battle.”

Aymeric smiled. “We’ll be waiting.”

Hurrying to her room, she slipped out of the beautiful attire and into her usual cloth and leathers. She stood up after tightening her boots and looked at herself in the mirror. Of all nights, why did it have to be tonight? She thought. And there’s that question I never got to answer. What is it I truly want? She shook her head, clearing her thoughts. “Not now.” She said to herself. “There’s a primal to kill.” Hitching her grimoire to her hip, she strode back to the lounge, to find only Aymeric standing there.

“Master Alphinaud and Lord Edmont left to talk strategy and I said I would wait for you. I was also hoping to have a word with you before you left.”

“I was hoping to have a word with you as well.” She said, closing the distance between them. “I...I wanted to thank you for a wonderful evening tonight. It was truly the most enjoyment I’ve had in a long while. Were it not interrupted by a primal…”

“The pleasure is mine, Celaena. It is not everyday I get to forget my troubles and relax in the company of someone as incredible as you. Time permitting, I shall like to do it again.”

She felt the tips of her ears turn pink. “I would like that very much.”

“I am overjoyed to hear that.” He smiled, hesitantly brushing a strand of hair from her forehead and letting his palm rest on her cheek. “That means you have to come back from this. Though I know you’re a more than capable warrior, please, do be careful.”

Though she was sure her cheek was burning under his touch, she reached up and placed her hand over his. “I will.” She whispered, staring into those ice blue eyes of his. Gods, one could get lost in those if they weren’t careful.

They stood like that for what felt like several bells before Aymeric said softly, “Celaena… May I k--”

“Celaena? Are you about ready? We must make haste for Camp Dragonhead.” Alphinaud’s voice echoed from the hall before he walked into the lounge with Lord Edmont.

The spell broken, Celaena and Aymeric practically jumped away from each other. “Yes, I’m ready.” She said

“Are you alright?” The boy asked. “You’re looking a bit flushed.”

“It’s...quite warm in here.” She managed. “Let us head outside.”

Aymeric cleared his throat, smoothing the front of his robes. “In the event that Mistress Alisaie regains consciousness, we will share with you any additional information she may provide. May the Fury watch over and keep you safe.”

Celaena nodded once. “Thank you.”

“Then let us be off. We can procure any additional supplies we require in Camp Dragonhead.” Alphinaud stated, marching for the door, the other three trailing behind him.

----------

Aymeric and Edmont watched as Celaena and Alphinaud made their way for the chocobo stables. “I worry every time she leaves too, son.” Edmont said.

Aymeric turned to the older man. “Even with all she’s capable of, it’s hard not to.”

Edmont nodded. “And however much we worry, we must have faith the Fury will watch over and bring her home.”

“Indeed, we must. I...I couldn’t bear the thought of losing her.”

“I know.” The count said, knowingly. “Now, if you’ll excuse me Lord Commander, I shall be getting inside. The older I get, the less my bones can handle this cold. I shall send word the moment I hear of any news.”

“And I the same. Good night Lord Edmont.”

“Good night, Ser Aymeric.”

Sighing, he strode away from Fortemps Manor and in the direction of the Congregation of Knights Most Heavenly. Though he wouldn’t be able to do much, keeping vigil over Alisaie would provide a much needed distraction from the turn this evening took. Stopping to gaze up at the sky, he found Halone’s star and said a silent prayer before entering the barracks.. Please come home. We need you. I need you.

AO3 Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/32639998