Chapter One

The sun over Thanalan burned - but when didn’t it? After the Calamity, it had seemingly grown harsher and harsher. However, the Hyur currently gathering in the sands close to Little Ala Mhigo was one of the few who could compare it closer. After all, it was as if she’d snapped from the falling lesser moon to the current day. (Technically, around a month ago. She was counting.)

Lightning shards and crystals… a lot needed to be gathered to be worth much Gil. But it was honest work, and if she did enough? She could hire a porter and the money to rent an inn room for around a week. Eight days in Ul’Dah should be enough to figure out what she needed to. Even as her knuckles grew bloody from her tight grip, even as the magenta crystals dripped with sweat - it would be worth it.

Time didn’t matter, either. She had begun as the sun rose, and the sun was beginning to set. Perhaps it was that Ala Mhigan mindset. It was the best she could do - and what made her almost happy. Soon, she would be able to go back to…

…well. Her people, if they still were there. The Path of the Twelve. The Hyur gave a little shudder, as she felt the sun beginning to set. While the sun burned during the day, it tended to grow chillingly cold during the night. But not how it used to.

—no, that shudder was different. The Echo - the Hyur could feel something coming. Swiftly rolling to the side, she barely missed the half-rusted blade held by what looked like another Ala Mhigan. A Highlander, but their body was mostly hidden - perhaps they were Au Ra, for they had a large tail swishing behind them? The blade had gotten stuck in the rock she was mining, but it seemed to distract the attacker - levin energy crackling, and the attacker trying to… do something with the rock, hands tightening around it. Blade still stuck, but the Highlander desperate.

Eventually, the silence was broken by the miner. “Excuse me?”

The other looked at her - eyes visible under the heavy clothes. A deep green, terrifyingly so. “—crystals,” is all she muttered, before turning back to the rock. Trying to dig out the crystals, perhaps. Tail swishing as her heavy claws dug into the rock— were they gloves, or…?

Before she could ponder more, the other lady retrieved her blade - the rocks crumbling around it. “There’s plenty here,” the Midlander said, gently. “You don’t need to get violent.”

The other - the tailed one - looked her in the eyes. And then asked… “Your name?”

“It’s Minfilia. Minfilia Warde,” Minfilia said with a gentle gaze. This terrified other lady - there was no reason to get on her bad side. If she could talk the other down… then they wouldn’t need to fight. “Do you wish for more crystals?”

The other nodded, and watched as Minfilia got some out. She took them greedily, before beginning to back away. “There’s… more here?” she asked, the best she could. Minfilia nodded, and the other was gone.

…That was frightening, Minfilia thought. But it worked out fine, right? Even giving those away, she could still spend time in Ul’dah. Still, she was shaken - she would retreat to where she’d been staying.

No, she hadn’t been staying in the settlement. Even if she had been accepted there, she wanted somewhere of her own. A small cavern she’d found nearby, one she’d thrown some fabric over the entrance to. Even if she trusted other Ala Mhigans, she didn’t trust the Flames as much - or the adventurers who came though. She needed these crystals herself, so she could get home.

If they went missing, she would need to begin again… again. By the time the sun had set, she had sealed up her cave with a few rocks. The muscles of a miner ached, but it helped. It was small, but cozy - and that’s all that Minfilia needed. The remains of a caved in mineshaft, the bed half-crushed by rocks, was where she rested - next to a safe that she had cracked and locked again. Still, it was comfortable. As Minfilia slipped into sleep, she wondered about the one who attacked her…

…she wondered if they’d meet again. But, recently, a lot of people had wished for crystals. Things had become more violent - not just with the Amalj’aa, but with the Ala Mhigan youths. She had fought by their side - in battles which felt like illusions, ones which almost seemed to happen again and again. Even if Minfilia was not much of a fighter - she still had the dagger Thancred gave her, but… well, she couldn’t help but think on this as she slipped into the realm of dreams.

Morning, as compared to dusk, was a quiet time. Of course, the beasts did not seem to care what time it was - but at least people seemed to rest. There was no rest for Minfilia, however. She had to get some food, and then get back to work.

(Food, in this case, being gathered. Or bartered for with the Immortal Flames who had set up nearby - if she required something that wasn’t foraged.)

But this morning, Minfilia noted two things. One was that there were an odd number of Amalj’aa around. The second was that there was also an odd number of Flames. A conflict, of course. She should intervene. But her place— she couldn’t stop them once they began fighting. That would be foolish. And yet - she slipped on her light clothes, and moved to listen.

—wait. She could understand the snarls of the Amalj’aa. She couldn’t before - before she awoke in this future. They snarled at the Flames, protesting. They had to get past. They had to find Him - who was him? Minfilia couldn’t figure it out.

And it wasn’t like she’d run into the battlefield to ask - especially as the larger Spoken fell to the Immortal Flames, their blood staining the sand. Soon, they fell. And that’s when Minfilia rushed out.

“What was going on?” Minfilia asked who seemed to be the commander of these Flames. An older woman, with a haunted gaze on her dark face. Ala Mhigan, if Minfilia was to guess. A mask covering most of her face - but the ways her lips moved showed she had been hurt one way or another.

The other looked over Minfilia, and gave a soft gaze. “Recently, they’ve been getting closer and closer to Little Ala Mhigo. I’ve tried to be reasonable, but—”

“I mean, why are they getting closer?”

A pause. “Well, there’s been crystal shipments lately. Lots of them. So… while it sounds weird… there’s rumours that they might be trying to summon a Primal. We’ve got our contacts looking into it, but until then, we need to make sure it doesn’t happen.”

These contacts— “May they be related to Louisoix?” Minfilia asked, expression growing a little excited. The Immortal Flame gave a little smile, and a nod.

“Oh, Louisoix… his finest students have remained here, after… well, you know.”

“Actually, I don’t.”

The Immortal Flame paused, tapping her finger against her lips. Thinking. “Did you live under a rock for the last five years or so? Because I don’t think anybody wouldn’t know what happened.” Even as she spoke, however, the Immortal Flame commander offered out a hand. “Wanna sit down and talk about this? I mean, not in Amalj’aa corpses?”

Minfilia nodded a little, as they moved to the outside of Little Ala Mhigo - sitting on the cliffside. “Well… it’s a little complex. But, no - I don’t know what happened. I… have amnesia,” she admitted. That was the easier explanation, right? “The last thing I recall is Dalamud falling.”

The elder woman gives a soft sigh, before leaning slightly on Minfilia - she felt firm, muscled, under her clothes. Strong, powerful… just like an Ala Mhigan should be. But she was not as tall as a Highlander. They were close to the same height, actually. “Well, um. Louisoix… sacrificed himself to stop Dalamud.”

Silence. Minfilia stared wide-eyed. “He’s dead…?” After another moment, she felt one tear. Another tear. It felt right - he would have given everything for the world. But he was not just her friend, but her mentor. Without thinking, the Immortal Flame gave a soft hug to the other. A familiar hug. But Minfilia couldn’t place it though the numbing grief that began to build. “He’s dead…”

“Mhm… but nobody’s going to forget him. Without him, the big dragon inside the lesser moon would have destroyed Eorzea. Still… I’m sorry, miss. He was really important to you, huh?”

Minfilia nodded, quietly. “He was… without him, I would not have chosen my path. I knew him well…”

The hug was nice, but Minfilia then quietly looked up. The other - the Immortal Flame - was biting her lip. Thinking, but then rubbing Minfilias’ back. Trying to be comforting. Before… “Wanna come back to my place to clean up?”

That’s right, Minfilia thought though her pain, the Immortal Flames tended to have Chocobo-drawn wagons. It was really just for their own comfort, and because it had become quite hard for them to rest with Ala Mhigans. A sniffle, and a nod.

—Minfilia did not expect to be lifted up by the Immortal Flame commander, carried in a hug-like hold. She could not protest, for she was far too shocked. It was not far, thankfully, before they passed an oddly massive Chocobo resting near a larger then normal wagon. Minfilia gave a soft confused sound, and the Immortal Flame explained.

“I’ve basically set up camp here - this good boy’s going to be sent back soon. My mission’ll likely keep me here for a few months - so I’ve got the supplies. Ala Mhigans listen to their own, after all.”

Entering the small wagon, it was clearly set up for comfort. A single table and couch (which clearly was also used as a bed), alongside a fully stocked cupboard. It could fit a few people… and, well, there was room for a light party to sit around the table, at least. A divider seperated the kitchen area - stocked with wood and a box filled with ice crystal shards. There was also a wall - likely to the bathroom, Minfilia thought.

The Immortal Flame commander placed Minfilia on one of the seats, before pausing. “Wait a sec, you deserve to lay down. I know it’s still early in the day, but you’ve had a big shock.”

“You’re mothering me,” Minfilia pointed out.

“I’m older then you. Probably. Maybe. How old are you?”

That actually made Minfilia pause. Had she aged in the time she’d seemed to miss? She didn’t feel older. Thus… “I am twenty-three years old, the last I checked.”

The Immortal Flame chuckled. “I’m fourty-five. So I’m an old lady compared to you - so I’m allowed to mother you.” As she spoke, she got out a heavy quilt, covered in Ala Mhigan symbols. “Here, this should keep you warm. Have you eaten yet?” Minfilia shook her head. “I’ll get some stew going, once I hunt down some—”

“—let me hunt with you,” Minfilia said. “I can fight. And… it might help me focus my thoughts.”

A pause. “I’m trying to be nice to you - but sure! We’re gonna hunt down a Angler or two - there’s a soup my boyfriend taught me how to make from them. I’ve got everything else nice and preserved.”

Minfilia stood - folding up the quilt - before beginning to follow the Immortal Flame commander. (She should ask for her name, but Minfilia was a bit distracted.) “You have a boyfriend? Is he in your squadron, or…?”

“Oh, no. We met elsewhere, he showed me how good people could be, and then we kiss a lot. Well, I kiss him and he gets all grumpy and it’s really cute,” the Immortal Flame said, as she looked backwards a little. “Maybe he’ll drop by sometime? Oh, and my little sister as well! I think you two’d get along - she’s just a bit older then you.”

How passionate… Minfilia frowned to herself. That explained why this lady was so fussy… she was a big sister. “Am I like your sister at all?”

A pause. “Well. You’re… Ala Mhigan, right?”

“It’s that easy to tell?”

“Well… yeah. You didn’t just wanna sit back, and you’ve got that look in your eyes. But I haven’t seen you around here before,” the Immortal Flame admitted. “Did you just escape from Garlean occupation, or…?”

“No, no.”

Minfilia gave a shake of her head, as they approached the Red Labyrinth. “It’s a long s-story - and quite unbelievable. But it’s related to my amnesia.”

The Immortal Flame gave a little nod to the other - before raising a hand. “Right. I’ll take the Angler on the left, you take the one on the right, and we’ll make some stew and talk over it. I might not look it, but I believe a lot of stuff.”

Of course, Minfilia followed the commands. Now, while she was not the strongest, she knew her way around a dagger. The same one that Thancred had given her, well. She knew how to defend herself. Even as the fish-like creature bit at her, and she slashed. It did not take long for it to fall. Mostly because she went for the eyes and mouth. Turning, she got to see the last of the Immortal Flame taking out her Angler - a firm punch, before drawing back to a neutral pose. “Two for two, huh?”

They began to walk back, meat juices dropping a little. “You ever prepared Angler before?” the Immortal Flame asked.

Minfilia shook her head. “I tend not to hunt - it’s usually others who supplied meat, before I took to this lifestyle. So, I’ve been eating plants and eggs and anything else I could forage for.”

“Oh? Well, that makes a bit of sense— wait, why did you take to this lifestyle? Or is that related to everything else?” A nod was all the Immortal Flame needed for confirmation, and she gave a little chuckle. “Well, meat helps you grow strong, and you need some strength to recover from… well, the news. I’ll cook it like my mother used to. Meanwhile… you should wash up. You can fill the tub with water shards.”

They returned to the wagon, and Minfilia moved into the bathroom. She was messy, that was true. She hadn’t washed since she awoke - the abandoned mineshaft she’d moved into had no way to wash up. Not even a river. There was quite a supply of water shards - whoever this Flame was, she must have a lot of authority.

Stripping off, Minfilia placed her clothes daintily on top of the nearby strongbox. Her body had lots of tiny nicks, of course, but none which would stand out or sting too much in the water. She activated the crystals - the magic draining from them, and water began to fill the tub. Strange… it didn’t quite look like Eorzean engineering. But that didn’t matter. Like with many tubs, the temparature could be adjusted by a mix of ice and fire crystals… and Minfilia made it a refreshing cool tub. There was even soap - Minfilia hoped that the Immortal Flame wouldn’t mind too much. But she offered this.

As she cleaned herself, Minfilia felt tears begin to fall. She felt her body begin to finally take everything in, and she felt her eyes sting with pain. Her hands seemed to split open, and she could no longer hold in her screams. Screams that echoed, and screams that seemed to make the world go white.

Wait, no. Minfilia recognized this feeling - the Echo. A vision, one she couldn’t control. The very thing she’d begun to study. Wasn’t it…?

Minfilia woke from the vision, and she was no longer in the bath. She had a towel wrapped around her, alongside the Ala Mhigan quilt. The Immortal Flame was still cooking, making sure nothing burned too much. It was a long meal to cook, but… as soon as Minfilia made a soft sound, the Immortal Flame turned around.

“Oh, thank Rhalgr—! I heard you screaming and then you weren’t moving and you were sort of. Submerged. So I had to get you out and I didn’t look at you too much I promise.”

Minfilia could barely hear the others’ rambling, as she thought backwards. Had she seen anything? If so, what had she seen, or heard, or even felt? She had smelled smoke. Heavy smog, not unlike the scent of a magitek engine. But she had not seen anything, nor heard anything. The ground had become firm, tough, metal.

…Maybe it wasn’t an Echo, but it was a stress break. That would make sense. Minfilia weakly looked at the other. “I think I’ve just… been though a lot recently. I apologize if I frightened you.”

The Immortal Flame commander shook her head. “Just, uh… try not to do it again? I don’t want you to… well, drown. That’d be a horrible way to go.” Even as she spoke, she went back to cooking, and Minfilia laid her head down again. Eyes closing.

“I have a question for you,” Minfilia finally said. “If Louisoix has passed, what has happened to those who followed him?”

“They’re still in Eorzea,” the Flame Commander said, “to make a brighter tomorrow. They merged with the Path of the Twelve, because their leader vanished, and now call themselves—”

“—vanished.” Minfilia knew that was… well, she was here. She knew it was wrong to interrupt, but—! “Do you know who that leader was?”

A long pause, as the stew bubbled away. “Actually, no.” The Flame Commander sighed. “They’re as forgotten as the Warrior of Light - you know, the one who helped save people, the hero who stopped Nael? It’s weird, but they’re just gone from our minds. Both the Warrior of Light and that leader. It sucks.”

Minfilia went silent, her face pale. The only think which stopped her from passing out was the smell of the stew, really. “…do you think you could remember them?” she asked. The Immortal Flame shrugged, and Minfilia let out a choked sound. “Has everybody forgotten them?”

“…you’re pretty invested,” the Immortal Flame pointed out.

“Of course I am! I was the leader of the Path of the Twelve - Minfilia Warde!”

Chapter Two

The scene was quiet. Minfilias’ voice had raised as she said her name, and the Immortal Flame had gone quiet. Dropping her wooden spoon, staring a little.

Would Minfilia be believed? Would Minfilias’ truth be accepted? The Immortal Flame slowly, slowly walked away from her stew. Came closer.

And then kneeled in front of her, examining her face. The tear stains, and the marks that covered her. “I… don’t know if you’re telling the truth,” the Immortal Flame commander began, and Minfilia almost seemed to flinch, until she continued. “But then again, you sound pretty sure of yourself.

So… I’ll believe you, Minfilia. Though I don’t know if that’ll work with everybody - you deserve somebody on your side, right?”

Minfilia stopped again. Looked at the masked older woman. And then, began to cry again. “Are you okay—!?” Minfilia nodded, leaning into the other. “…Oh, relief, then? Well, then… cry away, Minfilia.”

Minfilia cuddled deep into the Flame Commander, as she continued to talk. Softly, gently. “A lot of the Archons took Louisoixs’ death hard. But… I think the disappearances— well, they hit just as hard. Because, like… it’s not just like they’re missing, but everything about them’s missing. Even if it still happened.

…Uh, is this making it worse?”

Minfilia shook her head. “I need to know. I— wish to know. May I also ask… your name, at least?”

After getting some more comforting backrubs, the Immortal Flame commander nodded to herself. “My name… it’s Yda—”

“—Yda?!” Minfilia suddenly said, staring - and without thinking, moved her hands to the others’ hat-mask. Yda did not stop her from removing it, to see her soft but elegant face. With a few deep scars, and more wrinkles… well, only a few. But she was alive…!? “How did you— I heard you had died?”

Yda shook her head. “I… well, um. Long story short? I was at the Carteneau Flats - Garlemald had taken me prisoner. And I managed to escape then - but Garlemald still wants me back. For, uh, reasons.”

Minfilia didn’t need to hear more. From her sorrow, to this joy… it was too much. “…how’s the stew going?” she eventually asked. Yda paused. And then jumped up, as she went to check on it. Minfilia couldn’t help but smile a little - she was how she remembered her.

But… she was forgotten. And the weight of that was beginning to hit, as was the dread. At least, for now, it was Yda who she was with. But could she handle anybody she was closer to? Could she handle…

…no, it wasn’t time to consider that. Now, it was time to ask another very important question. “My clothes—”

“They’re where you left them - but you should wear some of mine. They’re really dirty - don’t worry, I’ve got some shirts that should be like dresses for you.”

Quietly, Minfilia stood - using the towel to cover herself. As Yda said, there were shirts that would cover her for now. “Can you really afford to take today… off?” Minfilia asked, quietly.

Yda nodded. “It’s not taking the day off. It’s aiding with an Ala Mhigan who has information on Primal… right? If you were part of the Path of the Twelve, and knew about the Echo and the Beast Tribes and all that, then we can say that.”

Even now, Yda was being this kind… even if Minfilia could seem like a crazy woman to basically anybody else. Minfilia bundled back into her blanket burrito, letting out soft whines as she tried to process what had happened.

The stew was done, and Yda served up some for Minfilia - sitting across from her, with a warm smile. Most of her wrinkles were on her smile lines - though she had the marks of battle clear on her face, as well. “Dig in - and there’s always more.”

It took a little for Minfilia to take her first spoonful, as she kept freezing up. But both of them were patient, and Minfilia felt the warmth hit her stomach right away. “When did you learn to cook?”

Yda smiled, a little sadly. “From my family. I’d always do a lot of it, of course - but we all did our part.”

Minfilia continued to eat, greedily, but then paused. “I don’t think that slaughtering Amalj’aa will help stop a Primal summoning. But— I heard something from them,” she said - choosing her words carefully between mouthfuls. “They are searching for somebody - some male. But, as we both know, Amalj’aa tend not to use gender to refer to themselves - using rank instead. So… I think that they’re on the hunt for somebody who isn’t an Amalj’aa.”

Yda leaned back, thinking. “You’re really thinking about work after everything you’ve learned today, Minfilia? We’ll chase it up tomorrow, okay? But I’ll keep that in mind.”

Minfilia felt her energy seeming to drain as she ate… felt sleepiness crawl up on her. It had been far too long since she’d had such a wonderful homemade meal… though she knew nightmares would likely plague her. She looked to Yda, quietly. “…Yda? May I ask… are all the other Archon okay? And the rest of the Path?”

Yda crossed her arms, nodding to herself. “Yeah, they’re okay. We’ve got a comfortable new base… well, it’s a bit away from the city, but that’s so the Syndacite doesn’t try and take control of us. You’ll like it, Minfilia. After this mission, I’ll take you there, okay?”

Minfilia had already bundled herself back into her blankets, and fallen asleep. Yda shrugged… this poor kid. Even if she wasn’t who she claimed she was, she was clearly smart and struggling. Surely nobody’d mind if she took her in, right? Right.

And nobody’d mind if she spent today doing a bit of training and keeping an eye on the poor dear? Also right. Hopefully. Well, she could handle a lecture or two from Papalymo. (Three would be a few too many.)

When Minfilia woke again, it was night, and Yda was just outside, punching the cliffs.

Standing, she moved to check on the other - and Yda turned on her heels. “Oh - welcome back to being awake! Finally get some good rest?” Minfilia nodded, with a yawn, and Yda stretched more. “Wanna head out on patrol with me?”

“Actually… I wish to continue my own work. I have been gathering lightning-aspected crystals, in order to make some gil,” Minfilia explained, as she stretched out. “That may explain why I was so dirty.” Still, there was that pride in her gaze, and Yda couldn’t help but smile.

Still, Yda crossed her arms. “What do you want the gil for? I mean, other then for buying things, I guess?”

Minfilia paused. “Originally, I wished to fund my stay in Ul’dah to figure out… well, what happened to the Path of the Twelve. But you’ve informed me of such.” She stretched out as well, looking over herself. “Still, is it not better if I at least have some money to donate to the cause? Or to help you out? Ul’dah still runs on Gil, from what I have gathered.”

Yda couldn’t dismiss this. “Still! How about we secure your crystals a bit better? If there’s really the risk of a Primal, we don’t want them to be used for that.” Minfilia could see straight though Yda, of course. She just wanted to keep an eye on her…

Minfilia gave a soft smile. “Very well. I could also use your expertees to make sure none of the Corpse Brigade have broken our contract.”

They began to move, and Minfilia explained. “The Corpse Brigade… they’ve tried to make their own way without Ala Mhigo. They do not wish to reclaim that glory, however - why fight for something they would not get to grasp themselves? Garlemald has stolen their desire to work with the Little Ala Mhigans who have carved out a home here.

And yet… I think I understand. So, I have entrusted them to protect me, in exchange for half the gil I make. I know they have been become bandits and are a threat to many, but…

…well, I wish I could inspire them to aid us.”

As they walked, Yda seemed to fall into thought, slowing. “Garlemald is horrific, and their people probably would have killed them if they had tried an uprising. But accepting your place is also not something I can agree with.

I can’t agree with your choice, Minfilia, but I understand it. Won’t arrest or fight any of them while I’m here, okay?

That was acceptable, Minfilia thought, and she gave a nod. “I found an abandoned mine near to where they’ve settled - I think that the Calamity left it prone to collapse. But it’s been comfortable, at least—

—Yda, wait.”

They’d gotten closer - but there was an odd feeling. The air was warm, too warm. And the cloaked Au Ra was there - facing down another. One of the proud descendants of the soldiers who fell, who became the Corpse Brigade. She had only been a child when Ala Mhigo fell, from what Minfilia had learned.

Milleuda the Slitter. She had become their leader, for her strength alone - and she was facing down the other. Minfilia placed an arm, to stop Yda from moving. “—how dare you!” Milleuda was snarling, her blade drawn - blood already dripping from it. The other, however, didn’t seem to be injured… “You brought them here!”

The other watched silently, tail stilling. Before she spoke, that awkward voice. “…have a job,” she said, before stepping back a little. Not in retreat. No, she was preparing to strike again. (Why didn’t she use those clawed gloves?) “Not— not personal.”

“You’re a Garlean - everything you do is personal,” Milleuda said, slashing at the other. Blade seeming to stab right into the others’ body… but the other did not flinch. That’s when Minfilia felt herself begin to falter - stepping forward.

But both her and Yda were too slow. One slice from the cloaked being - now with a blade sticking though her chest - and the other was downed. It was clean, flames dripping. Minfilia rushed forward, but the cloaked being began to walk away. Minfilia barely noticed that the cloaked being was holding a large sack, nor her limp - but Yda did.

No - Yda didn’t charge the cloaked being. She knew the feeling in the air, but was it even possible? She wasn’t stupid, even if she seemed so. Instead, she reached a hand to her ear, her voice dropping to a whisper.

“Papalymo… I think I’ve found it. I’m gonna need some help.”

As Yda spoke over the Linkpearl, however, Minfilia moved to Milleuda. Ruffling though one of her pockets, trying to feed her Potion. Milleuda raised a hand. “Don’t bother. I won’t survive, Mimi.” But before Minfilia could protest, Milleuda gave a frown. “I wasn’t fast enough. That person - they might have the eyes of an Ala Mhigan, but don’t be fooled. They’re a Garlean - and their kind are trying to root us out from even here.”

Minfilia let out a soft whine, putting her lips to the other. “Milleuda… you won’t die from this. I promise.” As she spoke, Minfilias’ hands began to glow. She hadn’t used it much, but a curative magic pulsed from her. The wound was clean, after all - gently, Minfilia removed one of her fabric belts to wrap around it. “I won’t let you. I— need to tell you more.”

Milleuda closed her eyes, a frown on her lips. “Do you think Rhalgr accepts your distaste of fighting?” she asked, as she felt her strength returning. Not enough to move, but… “To our God, we are all the same. We all have the same rights - including to Ala Mhigo. And yet, only bloodshed will reclaim our home.”

“I… thought you had given up on it,” Minfilia whispered.

“No. I gave up on the idea of working with Little Ala Mhigo - those who had decided to bide their time.” Milleuda explained, as she noticed the Immortal Flame. “And those who’d given themselves to those who see us no better then cattle, to use and discard.”

“Yda. This is my girlfriend, Milleuda,” Minfilia said. “Though we’re not that serious. But she needs transport to somewhere safe - could she be transported to where the Archon and the Path of the Twelve keep their injured?” Yda gave an approving nod, before Minfilia looked back to Milleuda. “I think, Milleuda, that Rhalgr would recognize that violence isn’t the only way to fight.

I pray that He would.”

It did not take long for Yda to get her large Chocobo over, alongside another Immortal Flame. She had made sure that they would go straight to the Waking Sands - or she would be quite upset. Still, Milleuda gave a worried look to Minfilia - Minfilia gave her another soft kiss, before she was loaded onto the ambulance cart. The blankets were treated with a mix of potion and ether, used to dull the pain of whoever was to be moved. (More expensive mixes, of course, were used for people with more gil.) Minfilia watched, worried, as Yda shook her head. “You’re really friends with Milleuda? Closer then friends?

…you’re an amazing person, Minfilia.”

Minfilia sighed a little, biting her lip. “She’s a good woman, deep down. But we all fight our own way.

Anyway— that cloaked woman, I actually saw her before. She was looking for crystals…”

…Minfilia trailed off, as she saw Ydas’ expression shift. Oh. It just clicked for her as well. Quickly, she ran to the nearby mineshaft - and just as she thought, her crystals were gone. “She’s aiding with the Primal summoning?!” Minfilia asked, staring at the other. And she’d told her about where crystals were - she should have been less naive. Then again, she had no idea that Primals were summonable right now… still, she looked to Yda.

Yda paused. And put a hand to the younger woman. “It’s okay, Minfilia. I’ve got a friend heading over, and we’ll figure out a way to get this Primal cornered. And then, uh…

Well, please don’t be scared of our adventurer friend who has the Echo? She’s a little fight-friendly.” It was the most Yda could really say about their latest recruit - but her and her contact were both close, so they’d be the ones who’d take out the Primal. Probably. Hopefully. It was dangerous to fight, but to leave it here.

Minfilia then paused. “Yda? I have the Echo as well. And I may have an idea on how to lure the Primal…”

Chapter Three

The next morning, Yda had reheated some of the stew as a breakfast, and had set up the table in her wagon so that they could all sit around it. Her contacts hadn’t quite arrived yet, but Minfilia was a little nervous. Who would they be? Would it be somebody she knew before? Could she explain herself?

Her fears were confirmed after the door opened, and in came Thancred Waters. His clothes loose, his movement swift… but behind him entered a massive dragon-like person. Black scales covered most of their dark body - another Au Ra. But this one was massive. Larger then a Roegadyn. Towering over Minfilia, the Au Ra then spoke gently. “Hello, new friend. My name is Bolormaa, of the Dotharl. I am a new recruit to the Scions of the Seventh Dawn. It is my pleasure to meet you.”

Minfilia held out her hand, trying not to seem intimidated - and then smiled back. “It is my pleasure. My name is Minfilia, and I possess the Echo.” No need to complicate it, as Bolormaa shook her hand. The Au Ra sat down across from her, hollow blue eyes shining a little.

“You, too, have the Gift. It’s beautiful, isn’t it? To see lives which once were, and to connect the dots across lifetimes?” Pausing, Bolormaa chuckled. “Ah, my apologies. It is a long story. Perhaps, when we are not seeking an Eidolon, we shall need to discuss it.”

This Au Ra must be from far away, Minfilia thought, before she noticed Thancred looking hard at her. As their gaze met, Thancred gave a soft smile. “Thancred Waters, of the Scions of the Seventh Dawn. I must say… you look like a hard worker.”

—He really didn’t remember. Trying her hardest not to show her expression, Minfilia kept her placid smile. “I am, Thancred.

Shall we get to discussing this problem, then?” Thancred couldn’t but tilt his head, but Yda sat - she’d finished serving them up food, after all.

“Right! So. Our lead is a weird Au Ra who’s been stealing crystals. And according to Minfilia, she’s been just looking for them in general - oh, and the Amalj’aa are looking for somebody.”

“Now,” Minfilia said, between polite sips, “I may have thought that they were seeking ‘him’, but Amalj’aa tongue isn’t as easy as that. The Echo gives us the ability to understand their language, but there is still interpretation and bias.

I think that if we trap the Au Ra who’s been stealing crystal, we will either find Ifrit, or…”

“Or what?” Thancred asked, though he was following this train of logic, and he didn’t like it. “We know that Primal are influenced by whoever summoned them, but do you really think the Amalj’aa would summon an Au Ra?”

Minfilia shook her head. “Is it not the way of the Paragon to sew seeds of chaos and misdirection? If this is another case of their influence…”

“Excuse me,” Bolormaa said, half-putting her hand up. “What do you mean, Paragon? Like the one I fought?”

Thancred nodded. “Yes, they also have been influencing the beast tribes to summon Primal.” Sometimes, they forgot that they had a new Warrior of Light.

“Ah. And Ifrit is usually a large creature, yes?”

Minfilia crossed her arms. “Yes, usually. The myths of the Amalj’aa see Ifrit as a being of both fury and anger. A being who wishes to scorch the land and purify it, so that they are safe.”

“What if the Amalj’aa didn’t summon Ifrit?”

Everybody looked to Bolormaa, who continued to need to slump down. “I mean… sure, this is their territory. But territory might be why Ifrit is here. Ifrits’ soul might have been reborn in another.”

Thancred leaned a little against Bolormaa, in thought. “It’s highly unlikely. Yda, do you have any information which could lead us?”

Yda sighed - she hadn’t touched her food, and was now looking away. “Well. I do know the Crania Lupi have been dispatched out here. You know why.”

Both Minfilia and Bolormaa seemed confused, but Thancreds’ eyes narrowed. “Why didn’t you tell us earlier, Yda? We’ll need to get in contact with the other Grand Companies—”

“—as soon as Ifrit is dealed with. I can handle it until then,” Yda said, sounding a lot more relaxed then Thancred. “But Garleans wouldn’t summon a Primal - they don’t believe in Gods. So that’s more then out.

Anyway, that Au Ra is probably tempered. So if we follow her, we find Ifrit. Now, usually, I’d ask you, Thancred—”

“—I’ll do it,” Thancred said - even though he knew he didn’t have the Echo. It could kill him. Or, worse… “I’ll play my part, and escape as soon as I figure out what’s going on.”

Minfilia couldn’t help but let out a little choked sound, before her gaze grew dangerous. “No. That’s not the plan, Thancred.

You see, she came to me before, looking for crystal deposits. If I find her again and can corner her, I will be able to talk to her. Hopefully. If she is tempered, then we know what must be done.”

One of the worst parts of the job.

“But, if she is tempered, she will not have much of a reason to hide where Ifrit is. And then, Bolormaa?”

Bolormaa gave a little smile. “I will fight Ifrit. Others with the Echo have been contacted, as well, in case more are needed. The Scions are a good bunch of friends, huh?”

They were. And yet, Minfilia felt so sick. Mostly from seeing Thancred - who shook his head. “Let me follow you, Minfilia. Everybody needs protection, hm?”

She couldn’t refuse. Else, Thancred would ask why, and Minfilia could not explain it. So, instead, she gave a soft nod. “I know it is not a usual plan, but please, trust in me. And only strike if I ask you to, or if it seems I may perish.”

“Fine.” Thancred spoke, as he continued to eat. Continued to look at Minfilia, for there was something bugging him about her. Not just that her and Bolormaa shared a hair colour - that was common. But… no, he couldn’t seem to think of what it was.

Maybe it’d come to him later.

They agreed that Minfilia would set out first, and Thancred would follow a little after. As Minfilia left, however, Yda tapped Thancred on the shoulder. “So, do you think she’s cute?”

Thancred looked to Yda, a bit of a deadpan look on his face. “Cute as in good to sleep with, or cute as in cute? Because, it’s weird. She’s the latter, but not the former.”

“How’s that weird?” Yda asked.

“Because she’s— I don’t know if I’ve had this feeling before.”

Yda then moved Thancred a little away from the window - Bolormaa was out there, after all, beginning to investigate the area herself. (Or just peering around, posing for some strange reason.) “She told me something weird, actually. You remember how we’ve all forgotten a lot?” Thancred nodded quietly. “Well, she thinks she’s one of those people we forgot. Our lost leader - no, not Louisoix, but… the one who lead the Path of the Twelve?”

Thancred paused. And then frowned. “Why would I feel that way about the leader of them? I— don’t know, Yda. We’ll need to find proof.” And even so, it confused him. “And I think our current leader’s doing just fine,” he added.

Yda fell a little quiet. Her expression growing a little dark, before shaking it off. No need to tell Thancred how she felt about their leader. Instead, she perked up again. “Even so, I think that if she helps with this mission, we should let Minfilia join us. We could use a diplomat - and maybe we can get closer to the Grand Companies?”

Thancred nodded a little. “I think we’ll need to get closer to them for your sake, as well. It was hard enough to get you a position in the Immortal Flames… I still don’t think the Syndicate has figured it out, but it’s a matter of time.”

Yda slumped. “Yeah, yeah. It’s gonna suck. And I still wanna help Ala Mhigans.

…I think… it’s time for you to go, Thancred.”

Thancred could tell - oh, he could tell he said the wrong thing, and set out with a dismissive wave of his hand. While Yda couldn’t tell, Thancred was deep in thought. He had to protect this girl, at least. It’d be his duty.

It did not take much to find the violent cloaked lady. She had returned to the mining location, and was trying to claw desperatly at the rocks. She was screaming, she had drained much of the energy… before turning to Minfilia, eyes nearly visible under her cloak. “You—! They’re gone!”

Minfilia had to stand her group. “I know where there’s another cache of crystals. Without letting them rest, the aetherial charge lessens. Follow me.” Even after being robbed, Minfilia could focus. She could pretend she wasn’t terrified. The cloaked figure approached, looking at her. “Lead… lead me. Please.“

It was almost too easy, as Minfilia began to walk. Quiet, hand on her dagger. They soon got to where Minfilia was thinking of - a small branch from the Red Labyrinth. Recently, it had been discovered, and had a cache of shards. She could have told others, but… well. There were ways to get gil. Minfilia made sure that she blocked the exit, as the cloaked figure begain to claw at the rocks. Desperate, seemingly hungry. Pity entered Minfilias’ eyes, as she stood her ground.

It did not take long for the other to curl up on the rocks, seeming satisfied with the location. But before she could doze off, Minfilias’ shadow loomed over her. Trying to pull her hood over her eyes, she whined. “This is about ya crystals, isn’t it. Sorry, I’ll get ya some more when I can think clearly.”

Minfilia sat down in front of her, yanking up her hood. And she was horrified. This was no Au Ra. Her skin was clear as a Hyur, except for the horns piercing her skin, seeming to twist around. Scales seeming half-formed, seeming to clamp down on her - and hair seeming to be firey, turning from red to orange to yellow. Her eyes had changed from that brilliant green to a duller one. And now that she could see the other closer, she could see those claws were part of her flesh as well.

This person was clearly either tempered or… that theory Bolormaa had given was right. And by the way she curled around into the crystals… oh, Rhalgr. “—what happened?!” Minfilia couldn’t help but say in her horror. The tired other woman simply curled back into herself, pulling her hood back over.

Mumbling, she didn’t bother drawing her weapon. “…don’t know. Woke up this way.” Her accent was… somebody trying to hide their Ala Mhigan accent, now that there was tiredness included. Trying to be more neutral. “Need crystals to think.”

Minfilia had gone from horrified… to horrified, in another way. She placed her hand to the other, before the other shifted away. “Have… I have work to do.” And yet, she curled up more. Shuddering. Was it right to leave her suffering? Minfilia gulped, before brushing at the hair of this other.

“…What were you doing before you came here?”

The mashup of Ifrit and a Highlander chuckled. “You’ll kill me if I tell you.” After a short pause, she smiled to herself. “I’m… Garlean. I was deployed to hunt down… somebody.” It was hard to think. Hard to remember names. But yet, she continued. “Me and my partner… Cecilia… we split up. And then, this black robed person grabbed me… and I passed out.”

Black robed— “One of the Paragon,” Minfilia whispered. “They took you, and— likely presented you to the Amalj’aa.”

The hooded figure groaned. “Those savages won’t leave me alone.” Even if she was their Primal, it seemed she had her mind, if only a little. But it took crystals to keep it… Minfilia was thinking. Foolish, naive thoughts began to enter her mind, as the other continued to talk. “I don’t want ‘em. I want to go back…”

“You can’t return to Garlemald,” Minfilia began, before being interupted.

“Not Garlemald. Ala Mhigo. I— told ya you’d wanna kill me.” But instead of what she thought would happen, Minfilia began to remove the others’ cloak. Underneath, spikes seemed to have pierced her armour, just like Ifrit.

“Garlean or not, you don’t deserve… this,” Minfilia whispered. “We may be enemies, but this has never happened before.”

As the now-uncloaked figure stopped protesting - she was so tired - Minfilia continued. “Usually, Primal are how the tribe sees them - summoned instantly, out of aether. And yet, it almost seems as if Ifrit is growing… inside you.” It wasn’t something she’d heard of before. And if they just slayed this Ifrit, they might not get answers. Yet, Minfilia knew the truth. A Primal was not just a danger because it was violent. No, it would drain the land of aether - and it would enthrall others.

But a Garlean would not wish to do either - either a Garlean by blood or by being raised in that enviroment. This woman seemed only a little younger then her. Would she have known the Ala Mhigo of before? “I cannot let you go free,” Minfilia finally asserted. “But I cannot let you die.”

The Ifrit-fused woman looked up at her, with a little tsk. “Then what— are you going to do?”

“I’m not certain yet. But… you don’t feel influenced by the Amalj’aa? At all?”

A shake of her head. “I— don’t.”

Minfilia had an idea. “…I think I know how to save you— what’s your name?”

“…Fordola,” the half-turned woman said. “Fordola pyr Lupis.” Minfilia didn’t quite recall what pyr meant, but it was rather high-ranked, she assumed. Somebody to respect. Lowering her head, Minfilia continued to fuss with her - now with her armour, which had been melted by the heat. “…oi.”

“Your skin’s burned,” Minfilia stated - before magic began to sparkle at her fingers again. More curative magic. “I won’t remove more.”

Fordola gave a little tsk. “Who th’hell are you? And what are you plannin’?”

“You will remain with me if I save you,” Minfilia began - as Fordola didn’t protest, she continued. “Primal require two things to be sustained. Influence and crystals. It seems that a Paragon— the black-robed person— has managed to subvert the first. And if there was a way to minimize your aether requirement, then…”

“…you’re speakin’ nonsense.”

Minfilia sighed, leaning on the rock a little. “If I can figure out how the Paragon altered the summoning, then I can save you.

Please, let me try.” She did not say that to Fordola, though, but to the figure in the background. To Thancred, who stepped into the light, towards Minfilia.

He was staring, in half-shock. “…Are you certain you have the Blessing, Minfilia?” he finally asked, looking between them. Jaw slightly open.

Minfilia stared at him. And then her expression softened. “I do. This woman has her mind, Thancred - you heard her!”

“She’s a Primal, Minfilia. We can’t just— she’ll end up turning.”

Minfilia was quiet. Before looking right at Thancred. “Then - let us try once. If we fail, then I will kill her myself.” Her expression didn’t waver, and Thancred stood his ground. Before his hand raised to his ear.

“I shall contact one of my allies, to see if he believes this is possible—”

“Urianger, right?” Minfilia said, as she moved closer to Fordola. “Be careful. If there’s one Imperial here, then others might be listening.”

Thancred nodded, half-rolling his eyes. But Minfilia was so earnest… he owned her at least a call.

Yda and Bolormaa, meanwhile, had begun to try and find out more information. The two of them walked side-by-side, and they couldn’t help but talk. “You see,” Bolormaa said, tail wagging, “I do not have talent with magic, and that is why I use daggers. That is how it’s always been. But I have repaired mine by myself.

That is what Bolormaa does. That is who Bolormaa is.”

Yda stretched a little. “It’s a little weird, but it must be nice to feel that connected to your past. I wonder if I’ll ever…”

But as Yda trailed off, she turned. For there was somebody shadowing them - one of the Crania Lupi. One smaller then her, one with a thin blade. Ydas’ expression grew dark. “Bolormaa. Go and get one of the Immortal Flames - one who isn’t me.

I need to handle them alone.”

Bolormaa didn’t ask why, as she scurried off. Yda turned back. “Didn’t know you’d be this persistant,” she said, getting ready to fight.

“You have quite the audience wating for you back in Garlemald,” the other said, “but this isn’t about that.” Yda tilted her head - before the Lupi continued. “I could care less about some noble struggle.”

Before Yda could retaliate, a mask appeared on the other, their skin seeming to burn away to reveal the cloak of an Ascian - or what they had been calling a Paragon. “I cannot let you interfere in my masters’ plan - even if you’re wanted alive.”

Oh. Yda shrugged, expression shifting to a grin. “So I don’t need to hold back, right? A pity that person’s dead, buuuuuut.” Yda shifted forward, swiftly, punching right at the face of the other. The fight began - blade and fists dancing, both mostly dodging the other. Yda having to be careful - she didn’t know much about fighting them. It wasn’t her place in the Scions.

The Ascian, though, could feel the grip on this body falling. Cecilia had been their identity - it had been easy to overtake her life. All for their Master, of course. Even if this scheme seemed odd. There was no questioning them.

No, they just had to take down Yda. Or at least distract her for long enough.

Yda, however, was counting on this. Because, well… as Cecilia dodged and dodged her fists, she could not dodge the dagger in her back. Sliding down, Cecilia barely saw the adventurer, Bolormaa, looking Yda in the eyes with a smile.

They had taken down an Ascian, unaware of how Minfilia and Thancred were doing. The two of them giving a soft look to the corpse, the Ascian within seeming to fade away.

Quietly, Yda nodded. The other Immortal Flame they’d brought approached - and Yda gave a sad smile. “She was long-dead - and possessed.

Still. I think we should try and see if there’s any identification - or information on why she was this far from Gyr Abania.”

No need to worry them and mention it was Ascians. Everybody was already on-edge because of the ideas of Primal summoning…

…not that Yda knew just what was going on with the so-called Primal.

Chapter Four

Thancred Waters was not a mage. Nor was he really good with these sort of things. But somehow, this Minfilia figure had talked him into this - with instructions from Urianger, delivered by an oddly swift Moogle. (Almost as if Urianger had already written down the instructions? But that was impossible… unless it was another study of his. The nature of Primals had fascinated him for a long time, after all. What made a being a Primal, and that kind of thing.)

Still, Minfilia had gone off to gather more crystals - not far, of course. Just enough Lightning Shards to keep the half-Primal Fordola pyr Lupis calm and placid. The Mythril Sand was a bonus, which would help conduct the magic. It was something that Fordola would need to use - what was it meant to do? The notes were messy, incomplete. A lot of it must have been in his mind.

If Thancred did not trust Urianger, he would not be doing this. As he continued to carve the patterns into the ground with a dagger which had been supplied. It was odd to the touch - metals Thancred had never quite felt, the blade made of an odd gold. He couldn’t use these as weapons, but to carve these symbols? It was fine.

Soon, Minfilia returned - with a sackful of crystal, looking exhausted. “Thank you, Thancred,” she whispered as she slid down next to Fordola. Laying the crystals out, the half-Primal seemed to relax. No longer shuddering.

Now that she could, Minfilia began to scatter the dust on the symbols. It gleamed oddly, magic already seeming to surge from the influence of Ifrit. Thancred backed away, warily, as they looked at the results of their work. It sure looked impressive - lighting up the area around their subject. Minfilia looked to Thancred, gently. He knew what that look meant - get out of there, it was dangerous.

He’d need to trust in Minfilia, and that Minfilia would do what she needed to do if this didn’t work. Even if they didn’t know what working was. And thus, he left the two ladies - sitting just outside, feeling a dread building in his stomach. Why was he so worried about Minfilia? Damnit, he couldn’t explain it!

Minfilia, meanwhile, approached Fordola. Put a hand to her, gently. Before handing her the words she had to speak. It was not in Eorzean, but a pronounciation guide had been included. Fordola snorted a little, looking to Minfilia. “You’re really tryin’ to help your enemy. You’re fuckin’ weird, you get that?”

…Quietly, Minfilia nodded, before stepping back. Fordola recited the words, the magic circle and equations beginning to light up - and a light pillar suddenly enveloped Fordola. Brighter then anything they’d seen - almost as bright as the sun above. It was cold, chilling, and all that could be heard was a horrific scream.

It felt like an eternity until the darkness vanished. Until the marks had been blown away, filled with mythril and a gold-like substance… and ice? Something cold, something colder then the air around them. Minfilia rubbed at her eyes, feeling a sickness to the pit of her stomach, but she could not explain it. She barely noticed that where Fordola had been, the figure had changed. That this strange ice had covered the crystal-filled rock - well, all the crystals had dulled. As if the very energy had been pulled though these odd lines.

But where the half-cursed being had been, there was now a tiny Ifrit. Around the size of a chocobo chick, and with those bright green eyes - not to mention the tattoo. The icy marks seemed to fade from them, as the tiny being stood. Stared around, before staring at themselves.

Fordola couldn’t seem to word her thoughts - her gaze turned from herself, to Minfilia, who stared. Minfilia eventually took a step forward, then another - getting out a few lightning shards she’d kept in her backpack. Just in case. Without thinking, Fordola began to bite at them, hungry - but it was not all-consuming. In fact, she stopped after a few. “…this is really fucking weird, you understand, right?” Fordola finally managed to whisper.

Minfilia dropped to her knees, even as the ice burned at her with its cold. “Do you have your mind? Did this… work?”

Fordola nodded, and Minfilia let out a sigh of relief. “But you’re… tiny. And— you’ve lost your form. Oh, Twelve, I’m so sorry…”

Minfilia could feel herself shuddering again. Before she put a hand to the tiny Ifrit, and began to stroke her. Fordola tried not to relax too much, but it was sort of nice. She then, however, turned her head. Huh… “Did ya leave a crystal over there?” she asked, tail beginning to swing. It felt… warm. Firey. But she was already full. Minfilia approached it, the tiny Ifrit crawling up her…

And as she put her hand to it, all went blank.

FIRST HYDAELYN SCENE

Chapter Five