Everheart: Chapter 23

I want my feather bed back.  And some squirrel sausage with gravy-drowned biscuits.  And coffee that isn't nearly frozen.  And a gods damned indoor toilet.

The lovers cuddled together against a somewhat smooth section of the cavern wall, their birds nearby in their own pile.  Ginal gazed out the cavern opening, to the dimly lit gray and white that seemed to stretch on endlessly in all directions.  The only things she could see that added variety were an occasional skeletal tree.  Her ears flattened in answer to the howling winds, nose wrinkled to match.

Glad we got in before that picked up.  Selah's right, Coerthas is awful.

The miqo'te smiled, though, as her attention drifted to the chocobos sleeping alongside each other.

"Peri and Din are getting along well." Ginal observed.  "Kinda cute, isn't it?"

Selah looked beyond tired, with bags under her eyes dark enough to be mistaken for bruises, and hair tossed and disheveled, leaving Ginal to imagine she didn't look any better.  The smile Selah offered was clearly forced, with eyes void of joy or affection that were barely even open.  Irrational, hot anger exploded in Ginal's heart, and before she realized what was happening, her expression had twisted into a hostile sneer.

"The hells is that for?" Selah demanded, her own brow furrowed and lips pursed.

Ginal looked away and slowly inhaled, then slowly released.  She repeated, wishing the sudden tension in her shoulders to subside, until, at last, it did.

Cool it, girl.  Don't blow up, not now.  Won't help anything, and you know it.

"Sorry..." Ginal meekly offered.  "It felt like you...didn't care about talking to me."

"No...I'm sorry, too." Selah offered.  "Guess this, ah...sleeping in shifts isn't doing us any good."

Selah's nose wrinkled with a sharp sniff, "What is that?"

"Me." Ginal sighed.  "Miqo'te musk, gets bad after a couple days."

And a hot bath, with bubbles and candles.

"Oh...hardly noticed."

"Good save."

With a gentle purr, Ginal placed an affectionate kiss on Selah's cheek, to which the hyur held her close and lovingly squeezed.  Selah rubbed her eyes as a drawn-out, loud yawn escaped her.  Again, she offered a smile, this one seeming less forced than the last, but still not quite heartfelt.  Ginal squeezed her hand before pointing to the blankets bundled nearby, offering the most loving smile she could muster.

"You're about to fall over.  You sleep, I'll watch."

Selah's gaze fell away from her beloved, her lips turned down.  "I'm sorry..."

"Don't be.  I'll just...I don't know, practice my sword form or something."

The gem-forged greatsword materialized in Ginal's hand as she slowly paced, a yawn of her own escaping.  The cave stretched on and on in jagged halls of gray and brown, twisting and sinking in just enough places to keep the miqo'te from staring straight through.  Her ears twitched as she strained to listen down the cavern, but all she heard was the wind, the birds, and Selah. 

Rumbling and an empty ache called from Ginal's stomach.  She retrieved a fist-sized chunk of the jerky from their bag, and felt a brief wave of nausea wash over her as the sharp, salty smell assaulted her nostrils. 

Gonna be eating this shit for a few more days, aren't we?  Gods, I'd almost rather go out into that mess to hunt.

"Selah?"

"Mm?"

"When we get back home, you're gonna make my favorite breakfast.  And rub my feet while I eat in bed."

"Mm."

Ginal allowed herself a playful grin at the thought, and looked over her beloved's sleeping form.  The rise and fall of Selah's chest was comforting in its hypnotic quality, but caused an ache in her heart.

Gotta finish this up so we can go back to sleeping in our own locked room again.  This just reeks.

Confusion.  Shock.  Heartache.  Sorrow.

This can't be right.  They can't truly want this!

"You expect me to do WHAT?!" Selah shouted. 

The Warrior sneered as he looked down upon even her elezen height.  His polished breastplate gleamed in the light of her torch as her long, sapphire toned coat danced with the evening breeze.  The sky was black with clouds, suggesting that even the moon was fearful of what may come. 

"Your union with Serafine, and the child you now carry, are forbidden!  You will end both!"

With fists balled and brow drawn together, Selah stepped close enough to put her face mere inches from The Warrior's.

"I will not."

His eyes narrowed upon her as a deep and guttural growl warned of danger.

"We gave you power, purpose and eternity, Amani!  The price was to be our champion, to serve our cause and submit to our will!  You will do as we command!"

Was I naught but a fool?  Have I been so blinded by having my beliefs validated, and being granted these powers, that I sold myself into servitude?  And now, to serve, I must lose...

Everything that matters.

Selah caressed her expanding belly, smiling lovingly.  She could feel the gentle rythym of the second heart, and winced at a small, jabbing pain from within as the child kicked.

I wonder, will you look like both of us?  Will your eyes be turquoise?  Will your ears be on top of your head, or on the side?  Will you have your miqo'te mother's tail?

Oh, Serafine...  My beautiful, emerald-eyed knight.  I never thought of having a child.  Never thought it would make me happy, but...  It may not be what I've dreamed of, but it just might be a good life.

I won't let them take it from us!

The gentle glow in Selah's eyes flared in intensity as she grit her teeth.  A staff of red-brown lacquered wood materialized from blue-white swirling light, a brilliantly glowing sapphire orb adorning the top of it.

"I renounce my service to you!" she shouted.  "You will not take away what I hold most dear!"

The Warrior snarled as an axe of shining silver appeared in his hand, teeth like daggers on threatening display.

"We should have known one who was not of our children would be deficient.  You will die for your defiance!"

An angry scream was Selah's only warning before orbs of flame flew from her palm.  The Warrior cleaved through one, and was struck off balance by the second.  Seizing the moment's advantage, aether gathered about the elezen's hand and orb, and was unleashed as a torrent of lighting from the heavens.  The Warrior cunvulsed as the electricity poured over his body, the soil around him now a series of small, singed craters.  Selah gazed upon The Warrior a cold, piercing hatred, and more aether gathered about her.  An inferno poured fourth from her hands, consuming The Warrior's frame and turning it to ash.

Droplets of sweat fell from her brow, eagerly swallowed by the dry, craggy ground.  She allowed herself a satisfied nod as her breath found its resting rythym.

That was...easier than I thought it might be.  Maybe the avatar lost strength in enhancing me.  Who cares, though?  Just glad to be rid of them.

The hairs on Selah's neck stood, as the unmistakable sensation of an unseen presence washed over her.  Gripping the staff, her eyes darted about the sunless landscape, her ears straining to hear anything of aid.  Strands of silver light swirled together before her, becoming a mass that stretched and coalesced into the towering and powerful form of The Warrior.

"Well...damn."

"Amani of the Sapphire Soul!" he bellowed, eyes alive with ire.  "You have betrayed your allegiance and stood against us in battle.  This, we do not forgive...or forget."

The amalj'aa'as form shimmered and exploded into ribbons of aether, illuminating the landscape as they scattered and dissipated.



Panicked and disoriented, Selah rose to her feet as she spun about.  Her heart thundered in her chest, skin sticky with a cold sweat.

Oh.  Right.  Another dream...memory...whatever.

The weight of the lance in her hands finally registered with her conscious mind, and she willed it to return to dormancy.  A slow inhale, a matching exhale, and calm slowly enveloped her.  A smile crossed her lips as she spied Ginal, slumped against the cavern wall and fast asleep.

Oh, Kitten...  You tried to put on the brave front, didn't you?

Selah found a seat by her beloved, and kissed her ear.  Her stomach twisted on itself as the images, sounds and sensations of the dream lingered in her mind.

To think, I was once...okay with being pregnant.  Or at least, it didn't feel so wrong.  But, that's not who I am in this life.  The idea is just...it feels wrong.  Like I'm betraying a part of myself.

Her shoulders drooped as she listened to Ginal's gentle snore.

I really hope it's not something you were counting on, Kitten.  Despite your anatomy, you're still a woman...and women don't sire children with other women.  I hope that part of you is what's dominant...I don't want to disappoint you.  I love you.

The wind continued to howl outside the tunnel, with snow and what looked like sleet pelting the ground with a frozen spite.  Selah retrieved a blanket to drape over Ginal, and sneered at the storm outside.

Coerthas was a verdant place before The Calamity, but at least this is a more accurate depiction of what it's like to live here.  A place that's cold, harsh and unrelenting toward those who don't belong.  I hate this place.  I don't want to spend a minute in Ishgard's borders longer than I have to.

Selah's eyes drifted to the bare legs shown by the slits of Ginal's dress, and allowed a smirk.  Her eyes tailed up the miqo'te's legs, to the bare tummy on display, and passed the tightly fit top that covered Ginal's bust.

I'm not convinced it's a practical outfit, my love, but I'll not deny that you know how to give a good show.  Maybe when this is over you can use this outfit in the dancing shows you always wanted to hold.  Not a man alive could resist throwing his gil at you...

Eyes gleaming with condescending intelligence.  Lips turned in a sardonic grin, framed in a meticulously trimmed goatee.

"Ah, Selah, now that I have eyes to look upon you again, I'm delighted to see how you've retained your beauty...and equally delighted to see how your taste in woman has only developed over time."

Geoffrey, you conniving, malicious bastard.  You keep your eyes off my girl, you hear me?  Or I'll gladly rip them from your sockets!

An explosive sigh, clenched fists, and an incensed snarl followed Selah's thoughts.  She halted her outburst, and shook her head free of the thoughts.  The tension faded from her shoulders as she found a seat by Ginal, a hand running through her own hair.

Grezel, why didn't you bring Ginal a nice, long skirt and a solid breastplate?

I'm getting tired of traveling by night.  I don't care how well I might see, this night-vision of mine washes out the world's color too damn much.  And it's so, FUCKING, cold!

As Peridot jostled beneath her, Ginal rolled her eyes as she noticed how her nipples were prominently on display beneath her top.

The one damn time I'm not turned on.  At least my wonder-bit has taken a queue from the cold.

The winds had stilled, and the sleet ceased to pelt the land, but snowflakes still slowly drifted from the ceaseless clouds above.   The caverns lay behind them, beyond a bend in the road, the jagged mouth no longer visible as the lovers and their mounts made their way down a miles-long slope.

"Where were we headed, again?" Ginal asked of her beloved.

"It's called Whitebrim." Selah answered.  "One of the fortress towns that serve as a border of sorts for the capital city."

"Will they have real food?"

"Mutton, probably."

"And coffee?"

Selah smirked, "Coffee beans wouldn't grow well in this climate.  I imagine it's something imported from Gridania anymore, so don't expect a huge supply available to civilians."

The hyur rolled her shoulders in a shrug, her brow drawn together in apology.  The miqo'te frowned, her shoulders slumped as a pang of disappointment moved through her heart.

"At least tell me we can rent a room with a fireplace and a bath?"

A shrug and a sigh were Selah's answer.  "Ishgardians were never known to be hospitable.  It's probably worse so since the changes of the Calamity."

Ginal's tail flicked in irritation as she returned her attention to the road ahead.  "This land is awful."

"Tell me about it, love.  You're not the only one who needs beauty sleep, and I imagine I've got bags under my eyes that do me no favors."

Offering a playful grin as Selah indicated the purple-black skin under her eyes, Ginal felt her heart sink for a moment.

If she's actually getting concerned for her looks for once, then maybe she's aware of how worn out this journey is making her look...

"I hardly noticed, darling."

"Good save." Selah replied with a wink.

The hardened snow cracked and shattered under the footfall of the chocobos, but were not the only sounds to fill the night.  Ginal strained her ears as the howls of wolves echoed in the distance.  Her gaze drifted in the direction of the noise, but all she saw were trees of dead and barren limbs, and the occasional stone jutting from underneath the snow and ice.

In the distance, a bright twinkling caught Ginal's eye.  As their birds continued to dash down the sloping hill, another twinkling joined the first, and then another.

"Lights!" she called out.  "Sweet Nophica's tits, there are lights in the distance!"

Selah's laughter was obviously in response to her outburst, but the miqo'te didn't feel even the slightest bit of embarrassment.

"At least tell me we can sleep and not fear death?"

"That, at least, even Ishgardians should not begrudge us."

Everheart: Chapter 22

Gods damn, this place is crowded.  You'd almost think there was no reason for these people to be someplace else.  Surely there's glory and fortune to be made outside Mor Dhona.

Pushing her way through the crowds, ducking pantomiming adventurers as they recounted their deeds and shoving past merchants intent on making quotas had left Ginal visibly annoyed.  One such merchant, a miqo'te as well, noticed the anxious flicks of her tail and quickly moved from her path.

Gods, this is ridiculous.  I don't have time to screw around with all of you.

"MAKE.  A.  PATH!" she demanded, her teeth bared for all to see.

Her point was taken, and at least two dozen people were only too happy to oblige the shouting miqo'te with glowing eyes.  With a clear path before her, she broke into a sprint toward the stable ahead.  Stopping to draw in a steadying breath, a quick wave got the stable attendant's attention.

"Hey, you!  Excuse me, I need your best bird!"

"Best?  Hmm..."

The attendant disappeared into the shack for a moment, and emerged leading a chocobo with plumage as green as anything the miqo'te would wear.

"This 'ere is Peridot.  Came to me when 'er master died tryin' to tangle with morbols."

That's so sad...but she's a gorgeous bird.  I wonder if Din would like her?

"Okay, thanks!  How much to rent her for...two weeks?"

"Be 'bout four grand." The stable hand stated.

"Wait, what?  That's robbery!" Ginal's tail flicked in agitation.

I don't have time for this...

"She's me best, like ya asked.  Rare, too, this kinda colorin'.  Figure it's a fair payment for so long a trip."

Shit, shit, shit.  I don't even have two thousand gil on me.  Can I flirt my way out of this?

As Ginal began to turn her lips in a playful pout, she realized there was a purple glow coming from the eye slits in the man's bird mask.

I know that glow...Robimont and Thad looked like that when they attacked us.  Is he being controlled by the avatars, too?

She held the image of her sword in the back of her mind, ready to summon it forth.

"Ah, know what?  Nevah mind, miss." the attendant said, his voice a softer tone than before.  "Starlight season's comin' up, an' ya look in need.  Take Peri, an' just be good to 'er."

The glow faded away, leaving normal eyes staring at her from behind the mask.  Ginal relaxed her hands, and allowed herself to breath again.

So, what?  You trying to help us now, lady?  Gonna take more than that to make up for all you've put us through.

Ginal turned her attention to the bird, who looked upon the miqo'te with caution and unease.

"I know you don't know me, or trust me." Ginal kept her tone as gentle as she could, willing her eyes to express all the sincerity possible.  "But, I need your help.  I have a long journey ahead, with a great distance and greater danger."

Peridot fluttered her wings nervously, offering a noise that was neither a squawk or coo.

"Please...please help me." Ginal begged.

The bird held her head at a tilt, and beak agape.  The two shared a gaze as they stood silent for a moment that felt like both an eternity and an instant.  Peridot closed her beak, and bowed her head, drawing a grateful smile from Ginal.

"Thank you."

"He just gave her to you?"

Ginal nodded as she patted Peridot's beak.  Selah was tying two rolled-up blankets to Dinornis' saddle, as the sky-blue bird idly nosed about in the wildflowers at their feet.  The miqo'te looked back at the stone gate behind them, the raucous activity of the city it guarded little more than a whisper at this range.  

Selah recognized the drooping ears and tail, at odds with her tall and confident posture.  Ginal was trying to push herself past sorrowful thoughts, forcing herself to stand tall and strong.  She also knew it wasn't that easy for Ginal, that her emotions were formidable and enduring.

Oh, Kitten, what's so heavy in your heart?  Foreboding thoughts of the battle ahead?

A gentle caress was enough to stir the miqo'te from her reverie, the hyur's expression concerned and questioning.  Her hands lovingly slid from Ginal's cheeks to her shoulders, eliciting a brief purr.

"Yeah, but I think it was that lady, avatar--whatever.  His eyes started glowing that purple color, like when Robimont and Thad came to fight us.  I'm thinking she--they, were trying to help us."  An explosive sigh erupted forth, "Dammit, how do I refer to her?  Them?  Ugh."

"I suppose it's all semantics, as long as we know who we're talking about." Selah answered.  "I'd just as soon refer to them as 'Those-assholes-who-don't-bother-us-anymore' myself."

"Oh, I got us some jerky and coffee." Ginal explained, indicating a cloth pouch and two canisters attached to Peridot's saddle.  Selah nodded as she approached Peridot and slowly reached a hand out, allowing the bird a moment to examine her.  Peridot cooed and allowed herself to be petted by the hyur.

"She is lovely." Selah offered.  "Suits you, I think."

With an irritated stomp, Dinornis butted his head against Selah's, inciting an annoyed glare from her.

"The hells was that for, Din?"

He squawked and fluttered his wings, then nudged Selah's hand away from Peridot.  Selah looked between the birds, and her confused expression slowly changed into that of amusement.

"Why, Din, are you jealous?"

Ginal giggled, "Aww, he is!  He's used to being the only bird."

Selah caressed Dinornis' face, offering an understanding smile.  "I know, Din, but this time we're under a time limit.  We can't risk wearing you out by carrying two, you know?"

The sky-blue chocobo peered into Selah's eyes, then turned his attention to Peridot.  Taking tentative steps closer, he eyed the female, who met his gaze.  Dinornis fluttered his wings and stomped his feet, cawing harshly.  Peridot only stared, and after a moment had passed, Dinornis repeated himself, this time his cawing sounded positively domineering.

You bastard of a bird, are you trying to put the female down?

Selah could only frown at the display.

Peridot craned her neck as she seemed to be searching over the other bird, and suddenly lunged, ramming her head into Dinornins and knocking him back.  Peridot drew herself up, stomping and cawing, and lunged again, this time kicking at Dinornis.

"Shit--Peri, no!" Ginal cried.

"Din, heel!"

Dinornis fluttered his wings, mouth opening and closing rapidly as his chest heaved with anxious breaths.  The two birds stared at each other for a long moment, until finally, Dinornis stepped forward and offered a friendly toned chirp, which Peridot reciprocated.

"Well...kind of reminds you of us, doesn't it?" Ginal said, grinning playfully.  "First comes the ass-kicking, then comes the undying love."

Wouldn't that be funny?  Ginal always did love chocobo chicks.

Hand-in-hand, the pair shared a moment in the relative silence.  The longer Selah gazed into Ginal's eyes, the greater the yearning in her heart burned, and yet, the calmer she became.  It was blissfully contradictory, and almost overwhelming.

This is what I have to live for.  There's no way in all the hells I'm letting anyone, or anything take this from me now.

Selah wrapped her arms around her beloved and gently joined her lips to Ginal's, and though she very much enjoyed the affectionate exchange, she slowly pulled away before Ginal became lost to moment.  Ginal purred as she slowly opened her eyes.  Her hand protectively covered her crotch as she glanced around with cheeks glowing pink, a small tent noticeable in her dress as she stood.

Guess I'm a better kisser than I thought.  

"You haven't blushed like that in a while." Selah commented, trying not to smirk.

She's always adorable when she blushes like that.

"Guess I'm feeling a little self-conscious..."

"It's cute, but don't be."

A trio of adventurers, clad in tattered and tarnished miss-matched pieces of armored plates or flowing linen robes, strolled past, toward the town.  The roegadyn among them seemed to notice Ginal's hand as she shot a questioning glance.

"The hells'm I lookin' at?" the near-colossal woman asked.

Ginal was clearly caught off guard, and turned away in a flustered panick.  Selah's brows drew together as she positioned herself between them, glaring at the taller woman.

"What of it?" the hyur demanded.

Bewilderment shaped the expression on the roegadyn's face, and fear crept onto her features as she looked into the brilliant glow of Selah's eyes.  Finally, she drew the hood of her robe up and stepped quickly to catch up to her companions.

You're damn right, there's nothing to see.

Selah took Ginal's hand and offered a gentle caress of her cheek.  Her heart sank at the sight of Ginal's embarrassment, yet still a seething rose within at the idea that so much as a rude stare or unkind word was all it took to shake her beloved's confidence.

"Ginal...for the rest of our lives together, you will never have anything to fear from anyone.  You're stronger than you realize...but in any moment that your strength should falter, I'll be here to give you mine."

A silent nod, a slight but heartfelt smile, and a slow inhale as she blinked away the pooling tears.  Within a moment, Ginal was steady, her posture confident and her expression playful.  She leaned up on her toes and pressed her lips to Selah's cheek.

The hyur smiled warmly and pulled two simple cloaks from Dinornis' saddle, handing one over to Ginal.  "Coerthas is cold beyond reason.  We'll need these.  The miqo'te readily agreed as she pulled hers over her outfit.

"Come on, Kitten, let's go kick some ass."

The transition from mid-morning to night was gradual and deliberate, comforting for Ginal in its consistency.  The transition from Mr Dhona's mossy rocks and towering, warm crystals to the endless blanket of white powder and barren trees of the Coerthas Higlands, however, was sudden and disorienting.

Though rare for the elementals of the Twelveswood to allow snow into their domain, Ginal was familiar enough with it to know what it looked like.  What was alien, though, was seeing so much piled so high, and stretching on so endlessly.  Even the roads were barely visible, despite what Ginal knew about people still traversing them for trade and military purposes.

Gods damn, it's cold here!  Why does anyone live in this place if this is what it's always like, now?

"Wishing for warmer clothes, Kitten?" Selah remarked.  "Your taste in fashion finally betrays you."

Even in the near-dark of nightfall, Ginal could see the smirk on Selah's face.

"If nothing else, I'll meet the Matron looking better than anyone else who's ever died.  At least this cloak should keep me warm enough to stay alive."

Ginal glanced about the landscape, the sharp gray filter her natural night-vision cast onto the world in the dark of night a welcome addition on this journey.  The trees were largely barren and skeletal, the mountains sharp and angry as they protruded from the endless white carpet.  Her ears twitched sharply in response to growling in the distance, and she turned to see a trio of  wolves ripping apart the corpse of some unfortunate creature.

Nature sure isn't always pretty.

In the immediate distance, a trio of small lights inched along the road, which Ginal identified as three lanky elezen soldiers carrying lanterns.  Their chain-link armor rustled with their steady steps as it sat over their woolen coats, each of them brandishing swords in the hands not carrying lanterns.  The trio turned to identify the noise of the chocobo's plodding along the road, assuming a loose formation and battle-ready posture.

"You there!  Identify yourself!" called the center one, an older man with a gray mustache and features taken by wrinkles.

Selah and Ginal pulled the reins to slow their birds and stopped with a small gap between them and the soldiers.  The lovers slowly raised their hands as the soldiers approached, and Ginal was positive she saw Selah rolling her eyes.

Be glad elezen can't see in the dark.

"Evening, sirs." Selah greeted.  "My name is Selah, and this is Ginal.  Can you point us toward Whitebrim?"

"Selah?" inquired one of the soldiers, a woman with an almost gravelly voice.  "By Halone, it's been more than a decade.  I thought you dead for sure!  It's me, Ettoinette!"  The woman soldier hesitated suddenly, "By The Fury, your eyes!"

Selah shook her head, "Nothing nefarious, I promise.  If you're worried I'm in league with dragons, I haven't even been through the Highlands in years, as you've noticed."

The woman solider seemed to consider this for a moment, then stepped forward, sheathing her weapon and offering the hyur an affectionate hug.  Ginal realized she never appreciated how tall elezen typically were, as the woman soldier only had to stretch herself up slightly.  Selah was clearly surprised, but accepted the gesture with a smile.  Ginal's ears twitched, and she fought back the urge to bare her canines.

Cool it, girl.  Just an old friend, I'm sure.

Ginal forced herself to draw in a slow breath, and release it.

Damn, I'm a jealous bitch.

"You never were one for tradition or politics, Sel.  I know you never cared one way or the other about dragons or the war.  But still, it might be interesting to know the tale behind those eyes.  Either way, it's good to see you, Sel."

"It's great to see you again, Ette." Selah offered a warm smile.  "I hope the service isn't taxing you too much."

Ettoiette shrugged, "Everyone's gotta do their part these days.  Cold's killing of the livestock, and the dragons and heretics've been even more aggressive the last few weeks.  I think the only Ishgardians who still sleep are those living it up in the Holy See."

The elezen men present scoffed and muttered their agreement.  Another thing Ginal found alien, to see soldiers so clearly in contempt of their own kin.

We'd never let it get that way in The Shroud, no matter how bad things are.

"Anyway, Sel, what in the hells are you headed to Whitebrim for?  Nothing out that way save the Stone Vigil, and that damn place is changing ownership too often these days."

"What do you mean?" Selah inquired.

 Ettoinette drew in a breath, "Well, Warrior of Light stormed in and killed the brood that had claimed it.  Then we sent in some troops to start clean-up, an' another brood of dragons barged in to take it back.  Been a damn bloody mess."

"You wouldn't happen to have heard something about some group of metal monsters headed that way, would you?" Ginal inquired.

The soldiers shuddered, and Ginal knew it wasn't the cold.

"Oh yeah, saw them at a distance ourselves just a day or two ago." Ettoinette answered.  "Never seen anything like it, and hope to The Fury I never do again.  I'm willin' to bet those things could terrorize even the dragons."

"Well, damn." Selah muttered.

"What is it, Sel?"

"Nothing.  I was just hoping it was a bad dream."

With curiosity plain in her eyes, Ettoinette glanced between the lovers.  "Well, judging by your earlier question, I'll guess those monstrosities are headed for Whitebrim.  It should be, ah..."

Ettoinette looked to the stars for a moment, then glanced at the road ahead.

"Yeah, head that way." she indicated with her finger.  "You'll cross a bridge into the Boulder Downs.  Keep on the road, unless you wanna tangle with the gigas clan out there.  The road'll split, the left'll take you to one of our garrisons, the right'll take you through a long cave, which is where you wanna be.  Follow the road, and stay left on the next fork, and you'll see Whitebrim eventually.  Total trip should be, I don't know...three or four days, if your birds are swift enough."

The glint in Selah's eye spoke of returning memory, the enthusiastic nodding suggesting she knew where to go.

"Great.  Thanks so much, Ette."

"Sleep during the day, if you can." Ettoinette advised.  "You get colder when you sleep, and it's already colder than a wet dragon's arsehole at night."

Ginal couldn't help but grin at the colloquialism, and forced back the snicker that threatened to erupt.

The elezen hesitated, one corner of her lips turned up.  "Sel...if you can wait a day of two, we can probably get a platoon of our troops to go with you."

"No."  Selah firmly stated.

"A lot of people have already been caught up in this mess." Ginal explained.  "Good people have been hurt...or killed.  We'll see no more harm done.  We can do it ourselves."

Hands raised in surrender, Ettoinette shrugged.  "I hope you're ready for...whatever you're facing."

"So do I." Selah snorted.

Selah directed her bird forward, and as Ginal urged her own to follow, she saw Ettoinette mouthing silently.

"Take care of her."

A smile, true and loving formed on the miqo'te's lips.

"For the rest of my life." she whispered, knowing the elezen should hear it.

Everheart: Chapter 21

The endless black changed into swirling color.  The omni-present hum of aether receded, replaced by the gradually increasing volume of people going about their lives in a busy city.  The feeling of weightless free fall became solid ground underfoot.

Selah blinked rapidly, adjusting her eyes to the light of mid morning, and glanced about at the gray-white stone architecture of Revenant's Toll.  To her side, Ginal's body manifested from the aether, and the hyur was ready to catch her beloved as she stumbled.  The miqo'te was pale, clearly dizzy, and looked ready to vomit.

Damn, I hate seeing her like this.  I've never known of anyone so sensitive to being reconstituted.

A long moment passed, a minute or more, and color returned to Ginal's cheeks.  She offered a quick nuzzle before standing, arms outstretched for balance.

"Can we...can we never use that damn thing again?"

The hyur couldn't help but laugh a little, prompting the miqo'te to flick her tail in a playful slap.

"You think Din is still in the stable you left him at?"

Selah gritted her teeth as they walked, as pangs of regret and shame fluttered through her heart.

I'm sorry, Din...  Please be okay.

After pushing their way through the crowds and dodging the advances of aggressive merchants, they came upon the small stable.  The same attendant was on duty, sweeping a pile of dung and hay from the wooden shack, onto the grass behind.  

"Um, hello."  Selah called.  "I left my bird here, about...a week ago?"

"Name n' 'scription." the stable hand automatically droned.

"Dinornis, male, sort of a cyan blue."

The stable hand finally stopped to look up, eyes sparkling in recognition.  "Ah, yeah, that'n.  Been fussin' 'fer a couple days now.  Reckon the guy's anxious 'fer ya bein' gone so long."

Guilt loomed over Selah like a giant morbol's shadow.  As it began to sink in, Ginal squeezed her hand and stood on her toes to whisper into the hyur's ear.

"You did what you had to.  At least you left him in good care."

She's right, I could of just ditched him.

The stable hand emerged from the shack leading Dinornis, who began squawking as soon as he saw Selah.  The warbird butted his head against Selah's, and again, his way of chastising his flock-mate for leaving him behind.

"I know, I know.  I won't do it again." Selah swore.

Ginal dropped some coins into the stable hand's palm, offering her thanks.  Seeing Ginal, Dinornis greeted the miqo'te with a gentle nuzzle.  Ginal caressed the bird's hooked beak with a smile.

"I missed you, too, Din.  Thanks for taking care of Selah."

Dinornis then squawked angrily, stamping his feet and butting his head into Ginal's.

"Okay, okay!" The miqo'te replied.  "I'm not leaving again, I promise!"

Standing back to watch for a moment, relief washed over Selah, and tension melted away from her body.  Their family was finally coming back together, and it was the best damn feeling.

Weighted boots on stone, and a slow and steady gait.  Ginal's ears twitched at the walking rhythm she hadn't heard in months, and she spun about to look.

"A demon rages through the Shroud, taking the form of a miqo'te of wine-red hair and bathed in emerald fire.  Rumors of two woman, a hyur and miqo'te couple, whose blue and green eyes are as radiant as the stars on a summer's night.  And now, a monster of metal charges through Mor Dhona while screaming the name "Selah," and here I find the two of you."

A male hyur approached, heads taller than Selah and broad of build, and Ginal immediately recognized his scent, only adding to what the baritone voice confirmed.  He was clad in the same midnight-black armor of spines and spikes as he had ever worn, helmet of a dragon's head closed around his face.  A smile, however slight, formed on his lips as he looked from Selah to Ginal.

"I was never much for coincidence." Grezel stated.  "Also, I must say, these new eyes are worthy of you both."

You just leave, without a word....  Duty calls, and all that, sure...but what about me?

Ginal balled her fists as her lips turned in a sorrowful frown.

You're my brother, Grez!  You were the only one who looked out for me for so long...and you just left me!

Tears rolled down her cheeks, as she bared her teeth indignantly.  Her breaths came rapid and heavy.

I almost lost myself, and...and where did you go?!  Why were you away for so long?!

Her tail flicked sharply, and the fire in her eyes surged forth.  Grezel was clearly taken aback, and Selah reached for Ginal's shoulder.

"Kitten, calm down..."

The miqo'te closed the gap quickly, growling and whimpering as she beat her fists against Grezel's armor.  Selah looked on with heartache plain in her eyes, and Grezel seemed content to let her go on.  After a long moment of her outburst, Ginal's arms grew too tired to continue.

She embraced the tears, and sobbed against his chest plate as he embraced her.

"Things have been...very heavy, recently." Selah offered.  "You were missed, but it's good to see you."

"I...I'm sorry." Ginal stammered.  "I've...been really emotional lately."

"Aren't you always?" Grezel replied with a smirk.

Selah kissed Ginal's ears and produced a small cloth to gently wipe at her tears.

"Ha, ha." Ginal sharply answered.

Grezel paused, his head atilt.  "Hm.  Your hair looks good long, Selah."

A frown formed on her lips, "Yeah, no...  I just haven't had time to manage it."

"Suit yourself, but it looks good."

Selah glanced around their surroundings, "You know, we're probably giving these people a bit of a show."

"Indeed." Grezel agreed.  He gestured over his shoulder, "Are you familiar with Rowena's House of Splendors?  It's the tallest building on the north edge of the city."

"I remember seeing it, yes." Selah answered.  "Unfortunately, we really have to be going.  Those heavy things I mentioned are getting urgent."

Grezel nodded, "I imagine, and that's why I came back to find you.  Meet me there, on the balcony of the top floor overlooking the city, in two hours."

Selah and Ginal looked to each other and shrugged.

Will this delay hurt anything?  I mean, the only thing in the direction he headed is that Imperial outpost, right?  Who cares if he kills some of those assholes.

Gods be good, the view from up here is amazing.

Selah looked upon the city sprawled out before her, eyes wide at the view from the terrace.  At the unmistakable sound of her beloved's purr, she looked over, and couldn't help but grin at the sight before her.  As Ginal leaned over the stone-carved barrier that served as both protective railing and privacy wall, the breeze was dancing with her skirt, allowing a look under the garment.

How can she wear thongs without complaint, anyway?  Aren't they uncomfortable with that anatomy?  They're not even all that comfortable for me.  Not a complaint, though.  She looks damn sexy in them.

The hyur allowed herself a chuckle as she glanced about.  The tables, chairs and potted plants on display would make an excellent cafe.  Curiously, there was also a stack of crates of various lengths and sizes, all marked as having been sent by Grezel or Timothy.

What in the hells have you boys been up to?

As though summoned, Grezel appeared from the stairwell, and sauntered toward the two.  Ginal stood up from her leaning and tugged her skirt down a bit, causing Selah to quirk a brow.

You did that on purpose, you little tease.

Grezel indicated the table nearest the couple as he assumed a casual lean.

"It's difficult to explain why, but Ywain, Miounne, Tim and myself have, since the moment we've met the two of you, been compelled to take a special interest in your lives."

His jaw was clenched as to suggest deep consideration, with arms folded over his chest.

"We have all come to agree, it's been as though...we were nudged by an unseen hand.  Very possibly the will of the Twelve, even in Tim's skeptical mind."

With a heavy sigh, Selah rubbed at her temple.

So these...avatars of ours, they've been meddling in all sorts of ways?

"I'm glad we've been here to support you," Grezel continued.  "You have been troubled souls worth saving.  Your contributions to Eorzean peace have been significant, and the love that has blossomed between you is...heartwarming."

Ginal smiled at this, reaching over to squeeze Selah's hand.

Grezel indicated the crates, "These were intended to be gifts for your bonding.  Something to set you off on your new life with, but..."

"But?" Ginal's interest was clearly piqued.

"We've also kept in contact with Ely, and we've been comparing notes of everything we know."

Grezel turned his gaze to Selah, "Such as your inquiries about the Everheart Circlets in Ul'dah's royal vaults.  Circlets forged as a pair with a sapphire and emerald motif.  Maybe just a coincidence, maybe not."

With pursed lips, Selah's gaze narrowed on nothing in particular.

Coincidence...  No, not after everything that's happened.

His attention turned to Ginal, "Let's not forget the way you've survived bleed outs, crushed bones and lethal aether exposure that should have, by rights, put you six feet under."

The lovers shared a glance, but could only shrug.

"I've...always been durable." Ginal offered.

A smirk was Grezel's response.  Again, he crossed his arms, head bowed for a quiet moment.

"A husband saved from the brink of death, where all his comrades perished at the Calamity's hand.  Attacks from friends and rivals empowered by mysterious means.  Bizarre new abilities and an intense aetherial aura surrounding you both.  Aside from taking a particular interest in you two, we four have come to agree: You two have a grand destiny ahead, if you choose to face it."

Destiny, divine intervention.  Next you'll be quoting some stupid prophecy.

"I make my own destiny, thanks." Selah scoffed.

A knowing smile, wide and playful formed on the man's lips.  "I would love to debate that with you sometime."

Selah chuckled.  "When this is all over, it would be my pleasure."

Wait, Ginal's been awful quiet...

"Something on your mind, love?"

The miqo'te's ears had folded down, her gaze distant.  She leaned back in her chair, staring up at the clouds.

"I just...wanted to be a dancer.  I only took up lance lessons because I was tired of being afraid of the world.  I didn't want any of this..."  A slow, sorrowful sigh escaped her, "But, fuck, turns out I'm some reincarnated warrior who pissed off the gods, or some stupid shit."

The depressed reaction made Selah's heart hurt.

"Reincarnated?" Grezel inquired.

Selah shook her head.  "Yeah, it's all still fuzzy.  We'll explain later."

Ginal went back to the terrace wall to gaze out over the city, her tail beginning to flick in agitation.  A low growl from her throat sent a prickling chill down Selah's spine.

Oh, shit.

The miqo'te slammed her fist into the terrace wall and turned back, her eyes ablaze.

"I've been at the mercy of bullies of some sort or another all my life, and I'm sick of it!  I'm gonna see this shit through so I can claim the destiny I want.  I'll rip apart this bastard ex of hers, and if I have to I'll find a way to even kill gods!  I'm going to be bonded in the Sanctum of the Twelve, I'm going to wear a gorgeous, custom made dress, with Selah in one made to compliment, and I'm going to be adored and cheered on by my new friends."

Pride swelled in Selah's heart at the sight.

This is the Ginal I love.  That passion is almost infectious.  Never let the world win.

A table-slapping guffaw came from Grezel, with a smile both proud and joyous.  "Yes, that's my little sister!  That's the fire I remember."

Grezel turned his attention to the crates stacked near the table.  "As I was saying, these began as bonding gifts, but, as the four of us have put pieces together, and were spurred on by recent days, we believe you have a more immediate use for these."

He pried the top off one crate and hefted an object, long, with jagged points on the ends, radiating a bright blue glow.

What is it?  A lance of some kind?  Is it...made from ice?

"While I was in Coerthas, I aided the Warrior of Light in combat against a new primal, some queen of ice and death called Shiva."

Selah quirked a brow, "You met the Warrior of Light?"

"Yes.  Fascinating person, but we'll talk about that later."  He twirled the long object as a lance, its "blade" end whistling as it cut the air.  "When the battle was won, there were patches of magiced ice that radiated this intense glow, like nothing I've ever seen.  I sent some shards to Tim to study, and in turn, he conferred with Rowena and they decided it could be made into a weapon.  Because of its appearance, Tim decided it would be an excellent lance for you."

Grezel handed the weapon over to Selah, who studied it with eyes wide in awe.  She gently traced her fingers along the long, sharp cluster of icicles that comprised the forward blade, and down the shaft of blue-hued metal that connected to a smaller cluster of barbed ice.  Ginal's ears twitched as she leaned close to examine it as well, an approving purr her response.

"It's...amazingly light.  And cool, but not cold.  Grezel, thank you."

Ice to pierce your frozen heart.  Poetic, isn't it, Geoff?

"Oh, there's more." Grezel continued.  "Now time was, I'm certain I remember you used to wield a lance as well, sister."

Ginal's ears folded in as she shrugged.  "It's not like I abandoned the lance.  It's just...somehow, this sword became my new weapon."

With a slight grunt of effort, Grezel opened another crate and lifted a sword, long and wide of blade.

"Tim had been working with the officers of the Twin Adder to have a weapon made for you, but had to scrap the original idea.  This wasn't ready until yesterday.  Try not to change your signature weapon on us anytime soon, hm?"

Ginal took the sword with a smirk, purring in appreciation as she hefted and swung it. She stood it on its point and looked upon it with pride.

"It looks like it was carved from a giant emerald."

"The blade is forged of alexandrite," Grezel explained, "a hard and sturdy gem.  The hilt is cypress, the pommel and cross guard are mythrite."

Ginal's ears twitched the way Selah knew meant an unfamiliar word.

"Mythrite?"

"A metal found in Coerthas." Selah explain.  "Known to be as light as mythril, but twice as strong.  Isn't that hard to get down here?"

"Not as difficult as it used to be." Grezel answered.  "There's been new deposits unearthed of late.  Anyway, it's been magiced by a conjuror's communion with the elementals...or is that blessed?  I was never certain how these elemtals do what they do."

He paused briefly to shrug, "Either way, it's sturdier for it.  The blade shouldn't break but under extreme duress."



It's like Starlight season in advance.  Guess I've not been such a bad girl after all.

Ginal set the sword aside and threw her arms around Grezel, her tail lazily swishing.

"Thank you, Grez."

A warm laugh and gentle pat on her head were Grezel's answer.  The miqo'te peered around her brother at the crates remaining, her ears twitching with curiosity.

"So...shall I assume you have even more wonderful gifts for us?"

Selah chuckled as she sipped at a glass of water.

"What?  I want my presents!"

"Indeed I do, Sister."

Grezel returned to the crates and pried open another, and turned his gaze to Selah.

"Though it's traditional, even practical, for dragoons to wear armor, you seem to have always preferred something lighter."

Selah nodded, "Honestly, I've simply been trying to distance myself as much as I can from anything traditionally Ishgard.  Though maybe with the things that loom ahead, I could stand to alter my wardrobe..."

Grezel hefted the crate and slowly made his way behind a screen that had been standing behind the table.

"Consider your wardrobe updated, my friend." Grezel replied.  "The parts are all ready, it simply needs to be donned and buckled together."

Selah shifted in her seat, the corner of her lips pursed.  She looked like she wanted to speak up about something, but was debating in her own mind about it.

Oh, don't be like that.  It's a gift, with a practical purpose.  What are you afraid of, that there's a skirt included?

Ginal leaned over to squeeze her hand and whisper to her, "Try it on before you protest it?"

I kind of hope there is a skirt.  You know it drives wild when you girly up a bit...

Shit.  Think about chocobo racing.

Selah silently nodded and made her way behind the screen.

Ginal grinned.  "You know, you might need a hand.  I'd be happy to undress you."

"And spoil the surprise?" Selah replied.

"You don't ever turn that off, do you?" Grezel asked.

What?  I enjoy touching Selah, what's wrong with that?

The miqo'te only shrugged her response.

Sounds of clothing rustling and metal setting on stone flowed from behind the screen.

"Wow, this is...quite lovely." Selah remarked.

"Hurry up!  I wanna see!" Ginal called.

A long moment passed, and at last Selah emerged.  Ginal's eyes were wide, her jaw hanging slightly open.

Oh, gods...she looks so...regal.

A shining silver circlet, set with a trio of glimmering sapphires, and earrings of the same motif to match.  A choker, a single gleaming sapphire set in silver and tied around the neck on a silky ribbon.  Knee-length boots and elbow-length gloves of sturdy, navy blue leather.  Armor that wrapped around her torso, shaped so as to display a noticeable, but moderate amount of cleavage, sat above a pair of simple black shorts.  Small, rounded pauldrons covered her shoulders, and all the armor shared the same color theme, navy blue with silver accents.  A cape of sky blue hung from the shoulders, flowing to her ankles.

I mean, she's always looked good in anything she wears, but..fuck, she looks amazing.

"You look amazing, Selah..." Ginal purred.  "I want you."

With a smirk and wink, Selah struck a playful pose with her hand behind her head.  She took a moment to look herself over, and rested her hands on her hips, standing tall.

"I do look pretty damn good, don't I?"

"I especially like the way you're showing off a little." Ginal remarked.

Cleavage and a little thigh.  Is it my birthday?

"No, but seriously, you look amazing.  Noble and deadly."

"Indeed you do." Grezel added, nodding approvingly.  "You look to be a genuine rival for even the Azure Dragoon.  The mythrite it's forged from will save your life, but it's thinner than what would be made for a gladiator.  Don't rely on it."

"I never do."

For a moment, whatever the two hyurs were bantering about was lost to Ginal's perceptions.  As she looked upon her beloved in her new attire, her heart swelled with pride and adoration.

She really does look like the noble and strong princess I always dreamed would rescue me.  And rescue me she has, in so many ways.

 "Ginal?  Ginal?"

Ginal blinked rapidly as she sat up, finally realizing she was being spoken to.

"Are you alright?" Selah inquired.

"Oh, heh, yeah.  Just thinking."

'I thought I heard gears grinding." Selah smirked.

"I've moved your crate, whenever you're ready." Grezel informed her.

Giddyness fluttered through Ginal as she sprang for the impromptu changing room.

I wonder what it could be.  A cute micro skirt with thigh-high boots and a studded leather cuirass?  No, I'm still thinking like a lancer.  Maybe a classy long skirt and a steel breastplate.

She peered into the crate as her ears twitched in anticipation.  Polished gold and glimmering emerald rested within, and she purred as she rubbed the green cloth between her fingers. 

Damn, this is soft.  Silk?

"What's this material, Grez?"

"Thavnarian silk.   Smoother and softer than normal silk, and twice as durable.  The armor is forged of mythrite."

She pulled the objects from the crate and set them aside.  Boots, gauntlets, a circlet, a bustier and some kind of skirt.  Off came her skirt and top, and Ginal grinned eagerly as she began to work her way into the new clothes.

The boots that climbed past her knees and gauntlets that stretched to her elbows were smoothed and rounded plates of gleaming golden metal set atop comfortable leather.  Silken ribbons flowed from the sides of the Golden circlet, while a single tear shaped emerald hung from a rounded cross on the forehead.  A bustier of the same silk wrapped snugly around her bust, while a golden crest adorned with a large emerald connected directly to thin golden choker.  The skirt flowed to nearly her ankles, adorned with intricately carved loops and tassels of glimmering gold and ornate feathers that match those that hung from the bustier, while wide slits revealed her legs up to the thighs

This is...absolutely perfect.  This is so ME, it...gods, it's just amazing.

Ginal emerged from changing, her eyes shining with appreciation and joy at the gift.  She struck a pose, a playful and risque bend that pushed her bust and backside out, and began twirling about in a simple dance in the open space.

"Gods be good, Grez, I think you've helped me fall in love all over again." Selah remarked, her grin mischievous as her eyes slowly climbed and descended the miqo'te's frame.

Ginal met her beloved's gaze with a wink, her tail swishing playfully.

Oh, you better believe I'm gonna tease the hells out of you with this.  But, really...what do you think?

Ginal straightened to look upon herself, ears twitching curiously.   The heat of embarrassment crept into her cheeks, and she looked to Selah with a hint of worry in her eyes.

I've never worn anything this revealing...Is it really me?

"Revealing in all the right places, Kitten, but the intimate parts are still well covered.  Besides, those gauntlets and gloves are long enough to provide ample protection."

"As well," Grezel added, "the silk itself was magicked...somehow, to react like a harder material.  I'm sorry for the lack of specifics, but I was never trained in the particulars of magic or weaving.  I would say we have an outfit worthy of your beauty and sensibilities, sister.  You can thank Ozalie for insights in designing this outfit for you."

The miqo'te beamed, pride and eagerness swelling in her heart.

I do look good, don't I?  And yes, I think this will be protective where it counts.  Besides, I did always enjoy showing off a little.

"Since we're all here together, perhaps a meal before you must be on your way?" Grezel inquired.

A dizzying disorientation overtook Ginal's senses, and the world around her became a swirl of noise and color.  The pull of gravity and solidity of the ground under her slid away, and she felt like she was falling and soaring at the same time.

Am...am I in the aethernet?  How is that possible?

Hear...  Feel...  Think...

That voice!

It was the same voice that awed and comforted she had heard in the Shroud, many days earlier.  The same voice that came from without and within.  The voice of a mother soothing a child.

My daughter...

The swirling world around her morphed into a vast, frozen valley.  Snow blanketed every inch of the place, while the stinging wind pierced to Ginal's very bone.  Trees, barren and dying swayed with the winds, icicles snapping from their perches and shattering on the soil below.  Before she could react with the shivers her body was calling for, she was startled by tremors underfoot, and the boom that sounded like a giant's feet stomping.

Oh...oh gods, what are those?!

Monsters of metal as black as night marched toward her, dozens if her guess was right.  Some were human shaped, with long arms that ended in sharp points.  The others were hulking beasts that strode upon two legs, with maws that opened to spit flame.

Ginal ducked to evade the impending death, her heart thundering in her chest, when she realized she wasn't their target by how widely she was missed.  She spun about to find half crumbled walls of gray stone, draped in snow and ice, with winged reptilian beasts perched atop.  The bests roared defiantly and took the sky, their wingspan both fearsome and awesome.

Are those what dragons look like?

My daughter...you must go...to fight the shadow...

"...inal?!  Ginal?!"

Ginal blinked rapidly, the world and its weight suddenly a part of her existence again.  Her heart still pounded in her chest as she trembled from adrenaline.

"Thank the gods!" Grezel exclaimed.  "You and Selah both--"

"Did you see it, too?!" Selah interrupted.  "You saw them marching?"

"Yeah, but where was that palce?"

"Coerthas, he's marching on Coerthas."  Selah's eyes burned with urgency as she grabbed Ginal's hand.  "He must have moved through the mountains, maybe, who knows."

Selah glanced at Grezel, "Thank you for the gifts, Grezel.  I'm sure we'll put them to good use very soon."

As the lovers hurried for the stairwell down, they looked back at Grezel.

"Don't follow us!" Selah demanded.

"This isn't your fight!" Ginal added.

They took each other's hand, sharing a gaze that spoke volumes where words were unnecessary.

It was time to put an end to the shadow looming over their lives.