melodiesofeternity | The Heroes of Light

Bonnie wriggled a bit in her seat as her question went unanswered. She hoped the Empress had noticed her but considering their last meeting she doubted that the woman would neglect to notice her. Still, the suggestion made to her earlier by Yotsuyu was still bouncing around in her mind.

But questions she did answer did, in a way, give a partial answer to Bonnie's own. Whether she knew it or not, she was describing a moment from the Heroes' battle against Kalki, at least as was told to the moogle. It matched, close enough anyway. Whether her world's name for the Calamity was known here was still a mystery, but all else was there. Bonnie wasn't keeping near as fine a poker face as Takeshi but she was keeping quiet beyond a few murmured 'kupo's here and there.

But a neutral enough question does eventually bubble to mind, "Um, I hope nobody asked this already, or maybe I might have missed something, but are we allowed to visit the temple ourselves, kupo?"

Sparks pushed aside any food and drink that was near him. He's suddenly lost his appetite with this revelation.

"Aaaand there is it. Been waitin' months for that little bit of information to come to light. Knew it was gonna happen eventually. Heroes of Light, round two. Just what we wanted."

On second thought, Sparks pulls his wine back towards him and take a drink. He's going to need more to get through this conversation.

[Heroes of Light? What Gladio's getting from this is that they've been brought to this strange world because someone is summoning - or has already summoned - this world's Bahamut. And all of them are supposedly successors to the previous Heroes of Light.

All of this sounds irritatingly similar to the prophecy from home and it takes a few bites of food, some sips of wine, and a deep breath to make sure he's calm enough to speak.]

I would like to apologize for how I spoke to you earlier, Your Imperial Majesty. I was out of line and it will not happen again.

[He doesn't try to explain that he'd let his temper run away with his tongue because that's just an excuse and in a setting such as this foolish mistakes like that need to be rectified quickly and simply.

Despite his discomfort, Gladio's apology is sincere - no matter his feelings he knows better than to address Royalty like that. It had been rude, unbecoming, and unacceptable.]

If I may, what can you tell us of the previous Heroes of Light? And if we are their successors, would Your Imperial Majesty grant us any aid we may require if we must, in fact, handle the unexpected Summoning of Bahamut?

[See, he can be polite.]

[Reno had -- perhaps surprisingly -- been quiet for most of the dinner. For multiple reasons. He hadn't been too sure about trusting the food and a good amount of time had been spent glancing to others, looking for any sign of illness. Now that the truth of their invitation had come out... ]

[Reno cleared his throat.]

Well. If yer gonna summon Heroes of Light, gotta summon the Heroes of Light, am I right Sparks?

[Yeah, he said it. But at least he could be confident in those who had come with him from Crystallis. He had to believe they had an advantage here. He drained his wine glass and nodded.]

Alright. Given the proof that others have asked for, I think we could work something out.

[Kenichi had kept quiet, taking everything in between a few bites and sips of wine. With the connection between the Crystallis' Heroes of Light now confirmed, he finally spoke up.]

Even so, we're nowhere near the strength you guys were at that final battle. We're going to need as much time as possible to achieve that and yet I suspect that isn't a luxury we can afford. Given Bahamut's really got this much power and hasn't razed the planet already can mean either it's biding its time with a plan or just plain toying with us.

Your Imperial Majesty, I don't suppose there's been a way to track Bahamut's activity and location?

For proof, we will have our researchers's reports and findings made readily available to you. [A pause.] Of course, I do not expect this to be enough. The guildmaster of the Summoner guild along with Master Summoners from Arito were invited to the Festival of Light. They are currently investigating the situation at the Crystal Temple. I hope hearing confirmation from a non-imperial source will be enough for you.

And if their words do not convince you, the skies of Vaikuntha should turn red in the days preceding the summoning. If anything, I hope this shall convince. However, should you wait until then to take action, it will be too late.

[ She takes her glass of water and drink. That's a lot of questions. ]

You can find those legends in various libraries and museums. You are free to visit our third district and inform yourself there— However, accounts of the legends change from region to region. What is in Sen Devadatta may differ from what you'll find elsewhere.

As for why you, it is a question even I cannot answer. There has never been any pattern as to who was pulled from the Dream Width. Perhaps the researchers at the Curti Center have isolated something in common amongst all of you? If not, I am afraid there is no answer to that question.

[ A pause before the next batch of answer. ]

Regarding what can be done... Separating Bahamut from its powers is a possibility worth exploring. However... We know not who the Summoner or Summoners are. Doing so could be what they intend so as to collect the Goddess of Death's powers. Ultimately, it is best to explore as many options as possible.

We will forward our ideas and plans to you, as will the leaders of other nations I trust. However, should the legends be true, the solution shall not come from us. I know not how, but if there is a secret to stopping Bahamut, you are key to finding it.

[ And finally regarding the summoning: ]

The summoning has not been completed yet. My apologies if my wording led to confusion. Be assured the temple is under our control and not being used to conduct the summoning. Even as we speak, our researchers are desperately working on the issue. We estimate the summoning may have begun in March at the earliest, May at the latest. I believe the first amongst you arrived in April? Again, this is too much to be a coincidence.

We currently estimate the summoning will take a full year to complete. So, between March and May of the next year. As soon as we have more specific data, it will be made available to you as well as to the other nations.

[ A timer will be added to the iMog Slates in the coming months. For plotting convenience, players can already access the timer here. ]

"Outstanding," Kuja sighs. "Another expiration date. Well, the simplest option, I suppose, is to find the summoner before the summoning is completed, and render him, her, or it to its constituent atoms."

Or 'them.'

[Dylas boldly corrects Kuja as he finally speaks up from where he's taking up three tables with his massive snake tail. His baby chocobo, Yakitori, is strapped to a baby carrier and rests on his chest. Someone has seen fit to affix a bowtie to the bird, and someone has also wrapped part of his tail in ribbons.

That's not the point, though.]

What if some of us don't want to help? This sounds serious, but it also sounds like a real pain in the a... [Whoops.] It sounds like a lot of hard work. And we didn't pick to be here. Are you gonna force us into helping?

I don't think we have much of a choice. [Sasami turns to look at Dylas.] I mean, sure, you can just ignore it and let everyone else take care of it, but if it's threatening this world, it could threaten all of ours.

You can't really want to sit back and expect everyone else to do the work. I'm more than certain everyone else here is going to stop me, but... I want to help stop this!

[The younger Lucis Caelum is silent for a moment as he tries to run through his head all the lessons he had in diplomacy growing up. Mostly to push back the building panic, but when the young girl speaks up... he finds he has to.]

She's right. [Noctis finally speaks, clasping his hands before him on the table before addressing the entire room. He keeps his voice steady, remembering to breathe when he has to.]

Whether we like it or not, this affects all of us. Native and displaced Outworlder, common and noble. [He sighs, looking down along the room from the end of the table to all the faces gathered here.] Whether or not you decide to take action or not, it's your choice. But until and after we have the information on the other's plans, we should focus on finding any leads we can on this world's Bahamut and the other four Legendary Eidolons. Once we have what we can find, I suggest we reconvene on neutral ground to discuss what we have. [He turns his gaze to the Curti Center workers among them. While he'd had plans to create something similar in Yun'Ashia, there might not be enough time to get it off the ground at this point.] I don't suppose you can talk to your superiors at the Center to see if we can reserve a room for a meeting in the next month..?

[Better to sit everyone down in person than use the mognet. His gaze falls on Empress Ramaa and the two gentlemen sitting beside her at the head of the table.] Thank you for the warning, and for opening your borders for us. While I'm curious why it's taken this long to inform us and the rest of the world, I hope this can be a sign of a future where we all might work together.

[If only to assure mutual survival, which part of him really wonders if there's another catch... Yet he does his best to mask any sort of poor sentiment with concern. A concern that is currently far stronger.]

Edited 2018-08-23 16:41 (UTC)

...Y'know what, the guy can admit he ain't down for it. We didn't choose to be here, and it looks like we're saddled with stoppin' a big-ass Calamity.

But I think about the other side of it: Nobody had to gimme a place to stay free of charge, gimme food. Y'know how much money n' resources that eats up, especially when there's so many of us? I owe my hosts.

[He raised a fist, pounding it into a palm.]

What better way to pay 'em back than by kickin' the crap outta some summoner punks or even ol' Baha Blast himself?

Even if they can be rude sometimes

[ It's a quiet mutter mostly to herself, probably only audible to people in her very immediate vacinity. But she's been content to listen so far. And at Kanji's words she... well, she giggles a bit at 'Baha Blast,' but she also feels emboldened a bit. Futaba leans forward. ]

If we're not going to help, we're just going to die with everyone else once this Bahamut is summoned. And unless someone's been holding out, we're not any closer to finding a way home. Might as well add this to the list of things we're searching for.

If it's true that we were brought here because of Bahamut, it's likely we may find one answer while looking for the other.

... 'Baha Blast'?

[The first moment he spoke up and that's what he says? Well... wouldn't be Kanji if he didn't.]

Anyway, I doubt they would've had enough information in the beginning. As they said, the method in which to summon a Legendary Eidolon of Bahamut's nature was lost. It's better to not immediately jump to the idea, announce it, and cause a panic.

[Though, she was still concerned about ulterior motives...]

That aside, I suggest all of our summoners speak to each of the other Eidolons we can contact.

[ That is a quick proud smile in Noct's direction. ]

Regular information meetings would probably help greatly with making sure we all don't miss anything important. And, whether we choose to act or not - and it has to be a choice, for each of us, or things can go very wrong at the worst possible time - knowing as much of what is happening as possible is of vital importance.

If I may, Your Majesty, I would ask you to consider very carefully what you would have done had we not begun arriving, yet the summoning had started anyway. Call up the best of this world, too: a solution that worked once may not work again and, as you said, there are points at which any preparations will be too late to begin. Besides, we already know that the Dream Width can take away any of our number without warning.

Do not leave this world unprotected merely because we are, at this point in time, here.

[ Does he believe her unconditionally? No. He rarely believes that way anyone he hasn't known for years. Still, the scale of the danger is enough to warrant significant preparations, and at least trying to find out, a lot and fast.

Does he think that they're brought here because of one single thing?

No.

But it's a good place to focus their efforts for now. ]

[For Cornelia, the Empress' words form a poor rallying cry; it doesn't sit well with her that she's calling upon them while also speaking of legend and fate to seemingly absolve herself and the other world leaders of the greater burdens of the task at hand. It's their world, after all. Their people. Their responsibility, their duty, their honour. Though she can't ease away the hard edge to her tone or soften her frown, she does affect a diplomatic air to mask at least some of her disapproval.]

You have our gratitude for giving us access to your research. Beyond the provision of information and the freedom to visit Sen Devadatta in the future, what ongoing support can we anticipate from your Majesty? Will we have access to direct lines of communication with your researchers or with you and your colleagues? Are there any resources you can offer that are unique to your Empire? I have heard great things in particular about your Magitek technology; will we be permitted to put any of it to use ourselves? And can we expect the cooperation of your military should the need for their service arise?

[Briefly, her focus shifts from the Empress to each of her subordinates whom she attempts to meet in the eye, respectful, acknowledging, cautiously curious about how well their roles reflect those of her brother, Schneizel, who had been Prime Minister, and herself, who had been a Commander, and their working relationship with their father, the Emperor.]

Though perhaps some of my questions are better posed to the Prime Minister and the Commandant-in-Chief. I should like to hear their thoughts on the wider issue of the summoning as well, if they're willing to offer them.

[Uendo has turned rather pale over the course of the discussion. Not only has the gravity of the situation grown far above anything he was prepared to handle, but hearing they're on a time limit -- less than a year -- is making his stomach twist with anxiety.

It's somewhat reassuring, though, that there are others facing the news with such confidence. It's enough to calm his nerves, at least for the time being.]

I wouldn't call myself a hero by any stretch, but... I'm a week's training away from mastering the Summoner Job. If it's in my power to be of any use, I'll do everything I can.

[He's not entirely comfortable volunteering for something this big, but... It's not like hiding away somewhere would actually keep him safe in the long run. And leaving the others to fight on their own just feels wrong.]

-It wasn't spoken, but Baiken and Cornelia's thoughts were along the same wavelength. Baiken's words from before still rang true. She didn't like being used, and even if this was some world-saving quest, she was still being used as a tool of someone else, someone placing a burden on her that she hadn't asked for in any way.-

I'm not a rush to die for a country I owe no allegiance to. -She let out a long exhale, the smoke at least sweet and pleasant in quality.-

Assuming this is all real, I'm not convinced as to why we have to do your fighting *for* you...

Kupo...

[Bonnie shuffles a bit, kicking her feet anxiously in the vast space between her seat and the floor. This is what she's always wanted to varying degrees at different times. A chance to help the Heroes, to be one. All of this has gone pretty much sideways since her arrival and somehow the idea of doing this without Mary was never something she considered.

This isn't the first time this blob of a thought rolls through her mind but it's certainly hitting home again. But Reno and Sparks' words make her perk up and she gives them a few encouraging paw jabs. Kanji earns an enthusiastic nod from the moogle too.]

Ah, I don't want to cast suspicion, kupo, but if that's the timing then maybe the summoner arrived around the same time we did? I mean, assuming they're not a native to this world, kupo...

[Bonnie's pom floofs a bit. She doesn't really have any evidence or reason to suspect anyone, and for all they know the person might have gone into hiding if any of this IS the case. But as the Empress said it's quiet the coincidence.

Quickly, Bonnie stands up in her seat, not gaining much height overall, but she bows emphatically to the head of the table.]

Th-thank you very much for telling all of this and pledging your support, kupo~

[Baiken's comment makes Papyrus frown, prompting him to speak up.]

AND WHO SAYS WE'RE JUST FIGHTING FOR HER? I'D PERSONALLY LIKE TO THINK OF IT AS TEAMING UP FOR THE GREATER GOOD.

[Although it is daunting. Especially here, without his resources, without his innate magic, facing a threat far bigger than anything he could have ever imagined.

As the others spoke around him, Papyrus had listened, yes, but also stared down at the table, bony brow furrowing and unfurrowing.]

SURE, SOME PEOPLE PROBABLY JUST WANT TO GO HOME. THAT'S FINE. I DON'T THINK WE SHOULD EXPECT EVERYONE TO PLAY AN ACTIVE PART, BUT UNLESS WE DO FIND A WAY BACK, WE'RE STILL IN DANGER.

IF YOU CAN'T FIND IT IN YOURSELF TO HELP BECAUSE OF THE WORLD, THEN SURELY YOU AT LEAST WANT THE CHANCE TO KEEP LIVING, RIGHT?

[He pauses, contemplating. This is heavy stuff, and he knows he's just one voice out of many.]

BUT! BONNIE HAS A POINT. THERE COULD BE A CONNECTION. AT THE VERY LEAST, IT'S WORTH RESEARCHING... AFTER ALL, THE DREAM WIDTH BRINGS ALL SORTS TO THIS WORLD.

Edited 2018-08-23 19:15 (UTC)

Ignis listened closely to the conversation around him. He didn't want to interrupt the Empress, to whom he had the honor to talk to at the museum before. But there was still a single burning question that King Regis brought up earlier.

If the Summonings are being attempted but the teachings lost, then something, someone must still be carrying the knowledge of it. That is certain.

"Forgive me for interrupting," Ignis speaks up, leaning forward so he can address the Empress directly. "The obvious question of "who" is attempting the summons cannot be answered. However," he frowns a bit, "if the teachings have been long gone, how did the knowledge of it survive? But more importantly..."

"...Is there a chance that person with such teachings can travel through time?" It sounds absurd even to his ears but, "You took us, saved us from Dream Width at different periods in our lives. Is it too far-fetched to assume that Dream Width pulled out a person from a millennia ago and have them land here?"

"If so," he leans back, entwining fingers underneath his chin, "that could narrow down our search a little."

[Klonoa blinks. Well, that sounds like an interesting idea. After all, Kuja seemed to know how this 'black magic white magic' stuff worked even though he was from another world. But, they would have had to have come from the Dream Width too, right...? Were there other people going out to find people there aside from the ones that picked him up? This is only reinforcing his decision: he has to start exploring that place.]

"Well, I'm not going to let someone destroy this world. Lady Ramaa, I'll do everything I can."

[Klonoa's a lot more single-minded than some of the speakers. If the world's in danger, it needs to be saved.]

[ He won’t take out his tablet while in a formal audience, but Orcelito sifts through what facts he can recall; assuming summoning has an effect on the environment, some of the theories are starting to sound plausible. The eight months checks out, too. And yet… most of this was attainable knowledge to anyone who had access to the network and research stations.

He raises his head at Regis' and Cornelia's suggestions. A show of good faith would ease the tension. ]

There are many in this world who have mastered job classes. I agree that we would like to see your own forces mobilized for this, as well as cooperation with the guilds.

[Gladio's eye-roll at Dylas morphs into a proud smile at both Noct and Regis as they eloquently express their thoughts and politely offer their suggestions. Let it be known that the Lucis Caelum's do not disappoint when it comes to diplomacy.

He nods his head towards Ignis too at the man's poignant question about possible time travel. Truly ~~one of~~ the smartest in the room, no doubt about it.

But Gladio finds himself lingering more on the point raised by others - the Empress' consistent words of them acting as these supposed Heroes without any mention of her own forces or citizens.]

While I don't believe in sitting idly and allowing this world to fall into chaos simply because it isn't my home, I do wonder why you have yet to talk about your own forces or your own people joining us in this search for answers. And possibly in actual battle, should such an occasion arise.

Is there anything that would bar their assistance, Your Imperial Majesty?

[The comments and question are spoken with an honest, even tone. Gladio truly does not intend to offend or come across as rude.

Too much is at stake now.]

...I don't see we have a choice. We can't permit this world to burn. He's right.

[Vax glances at Noctis, then nods. Then, he looks back at the Empress.

Gladio has a good point.

And there's still a worried glance at Castor.]

"Welp." Frisk stretches, doing their best to hide their mounting panic behind a confident, lazy smile. World saving missions with massive parties fighting a freakin' god eidolon with another god's crazy power? Totally not their thing. "World saving missions with massive parties fighting a freakin' ultragod eidolon with another god's crazy power? Totally my thing. Plus it would be kinda bad form to just die in a huge Baha Blast just because we're lazy or we didn't trust the person who brought this whole thing up. Not saying that I don't trust you," they add hastily, "but, um, ah, nevermind. Anyways, we should probably take some time after this to split up. Smart people should hit the books, fighty people should start canvassing likely locations for smart people to find things worth researching or places where the summoner could be holed up."

Wait. Frisk's brow furrows. Maybe... "It's been chaotic these past few minutes, so I'm sorry if I didn't hear you mention this... but d'ya think that Leviathan waking up is because of this weird summoning ritual? Odd coincidence, right? We should probably recheck her temple in Ka'pandol to see if we missed anything.

"What?" Frisk looks at the rest of the banquet, smug. "Just because I'm a kid doesn't mean I'm lacking in basic common sense."

The Heroes of Light

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