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Chapter Text

Thick fog rolled through the Twelvewoods, blanketing every rock and tree in a heavy white, almost impenetrable mist. The calls of the birds and other creatures that made the forest their home seemed to quiet as it pressed down upon them. Even the sound of unseen rushing rivers seemed unusually muted under its weight.

All was still…but only for a moment.

A small female Miqo’te burst through the underbrush, breaking the silence. She ran as if her life depended on it. The sound of her frantic footfalls echoed in head as she ducked branches and leapt over fallen logs. Every move she made felt unnaturally loud. She looked back over her shoulder, her ears twitching as they strained for the sound of whatever had sent her running. The thick fog limited her vision, but she didn’t need her eyes to know she had to keep moving.

Instinct did that.

A spine-chilling shriek filled the air, reverberating over every rock and tree. More shrill cries joined the first drawing ever closer and clearer. It was the squawking, shrieking battlecries of Ixali warriors. She could hear them all around her, pursuing her. Hunting her. Tears trailed down her face as she ran, alone and unarmed.

She remembered she had others at her side once, but they were gone, all of them lost to the mist: captured, or worse… Not even her carbuncle, her constant companion, remained, following at her heels.

She had to keep running. She couldn’t let them catch her. She had to escape.

The forest seemed to press in around her, the heavy mist making the once familiar trees feel foreign. The trees and brush caught at her hair and clothes like claws pulling at her, holding her back. She twisted against their grip, trying to pull herself free, heedless of the tears they made in her robes or the bleeding marks left across her skin. She was beyond feeling pain, only aware of the fear driving her on. With a final tug she broke free, racing towards the treeline she knew was not far ahead. She knew she would lose the protection the trees provided, but the brush would no longer slow her down. If she was lucky she’d gain enough distance to lose the Ixal chasing her completely.

The terrain when she did break free of the trees was not any smoother than that of the woods. There might not have been bushes and overturned logs, but the ground beneath her feet rose and fell unevenly. The loose stones and gravel shifted, threatening to send her sprawling. Still she pressed onward, scrambling over earth and rock. She ran hard and she ran fast. Her pulse raced and vision narrowed as she tried desperately to outpace her pursuers. Her breath caught in her chest as exertion and panic took their toll on her.

She glanced back once more expecting to see the Ixal hot on her heels but all she could see was the mist. Even the towering trees behind her had been swallowed up in thick white fog. She could scarcely make out her own hands before her as she continued running.

The sudden cold splash of water enveloping her feet was a shock. She still couldn’t see anything around her. Had she reached a river? She must have. She pressed on, water soaking her boots and trousers. She knew it should cover her trail, vaguely remembering her aunt teaching her that in hunt training many, many years ago.

As she ran the mist around her slowly changed, darkening then thinning so gradually she could not tell until the mist had almost completely faded. Gone were the forests and rivers of her childhood home, replaced by dark stone walls rising over her to become tall vaulted ceilings. The floor was covered by crumbled masonry and a thin layer of stagnant water. These were man made…tunnels? Or halls?

She paused, bending over to catch her breath. She had no idea how she’d ended up here, but knew the Ixal were unlikely to continue their pursuit. For a moment the only sound she could hear was her own heart beating heavily in her chest. Her hands shook as they clutched her knees for balance. She’d escaped. She only had a moment to examine her surroundings before her ears picked up the sounds of nearby commotion.

“I heard her! That way!”

Fear rose within her once more as loud voices filled the air. Her ears twitched as the voices drew closer accompanied by new sounds. Instead of the croaking cries and chittering calls of the Ixal with their leather armor and bone and wood spears, she could now hear the creaking and clanking of metal and the voices yelling over the din sounded distinctly manlike. Her breath caught in her chest as with horror she recognized those voices as those of Ul’dah’s Brass Blades and memories came flooding in. The Sultana. The banquet. Raubahn and Ilberd fighting. She and the Scions running from the combined forces of the Crystal Braves and Brass Blades.

She wasn’t the one who killed the Sultana. Nanamo had been her friend! She was innocent! But none had seemed to believe her, binding her and dragging her before the crowds. Accusing her of regicide. She had to get away, she couldn’t let them catch her. Like they’d caught the others no doubt.

Once more, she took off running.

Dingy sewer water splashed noisily with every step she took. It seemed to be rising slowly as she ran—from beneath her feet, to over her ankles, then to her knees. The harder she ran the more the water pulled at her, slowing her pace. She could hear the sound of the Blades closing in behind her. Their crashing footfalls and clanging armor growing louder by the second. The water didn’t seem to be slowing them down any. They were going to catch her. She glanced back fearing they were right on her tail. Distracted, she couldn’t mind her footing. Her heel slipped on loose stone sending her tumbling. She went careening forward into the dark water, knowing all was lost. Her stumble had slowed her down too much. All hope of escape was lost. She braced herself for the frigid chill of the dark, dank sewer water.

But it never came…

She opened her eyes cautiously, but she might have well kept them shut. She could see nothing. The darkness pressed around her so densely that not even her keen night vision could see through it. Her heart beat loudly in her ears as she looked around futilely. She dared not move from the spot she found herself in, untrusting of the terrain after her fall…or near fall? She didn’t know how she’d arrived where she was, wherever that was. Her tail flicked anxiously behind her as she held herself as still as possible. Long moments passed as she stood alone in the darkness, waiting for what lurked in the shadows.

She could feel eyes upon her, watching her every move. Her every breath echoed in the silent air. Tension coiled in her stomach as shivers raced up and down her spine as the minutes passed and those in the dark maintained their silent watch. She felt as if she were going mad, like the beasts caged before being sent into Ul’dah’s gladiatorial pits. In the growing frenzy of her mind she nearly missed the first whisper that drifted across the cold air.

“...Warrior of Light…”

Her head shot up as her title reached her ears. A bright light suddenly filled the room, blinding her. As she blinked, her eyes slowly adjusting to the light, she was able to see more of her surroundings. She was surrounded on all sides by bars–she was in a cage then—but beyond that the impenetrable darkness remained. She ran to the bars searching frantically for a way out. The cage seemed to possess no door or latch and try as she might to pull them the bars held firm. With a frustrated growl she pushed away, pacing her confines and peering out into the darkness beyond.

She scanned the darkness for the source of the voice, but silence had fallen once more. More time passed, periods of silence followed by the mention of her name or titles. It felt infinitely long and instantaneous at the same time. A static humming grew in her head the longer she remained. She hardly noticed as the humming began to coalesce into words and phrases whispered into the wind.

“Weak…too weak…”

Her head shot up as the words reached her ears. Dark shapes had drawn slowly closer, their forms amorphous in the shadows beyond her cage.

“You didn’t protect us…why didn’t you protect us?”

She froze, staring out at the approaching shadows. The closer they came the more she was able to make out individual forms. Some tall and burly, others small and slight, and all sizes in between. The one thing they had in common was the single minded determination with which they drew closer.

“We trusted you to save us…”

The figures surged forward, the light expanding highlighting their features for the first time. She flinched back as she recognized the faces circling her cage. A’aba, Aulie, Liavinne, Noraxia, Percevains, Satzfloh, Una, Clive & Ursula of the Students of Baldesion, Haribehrt…and the countless others who had fallen in the Waking Sands. The friends and colleagues she’d been unable to keep safe.

“Dead, all of us dead, for your weakness…”

A tall achingly familiar figure stepped forward, the light catching on her silver hair. Moenbryda. There was no trace of her usual enthusiasm. Her voice was uncharacteristically cold, disgust visible on her face as she pushed into the light.

“Had she been stronger there would have been no need to sacrifice myself.”

A male Hyurian form pushed forward next, anger radiating off his entire being. The bright blue uniform he wore was slashed and bloody, revealing wounds none could have survived.

“If she’d been more outspoken I’d not have been betrayed and murdered by my fellow Crystal Braves,” Wilred’s voice rose up. “How many of us has she failed?”

Shouts of agreement filled the air as the multitudes surrounding her cage pressed forward. She stumbled back, falling to the ground as she scrambled away from the hands clawing at her through the bars. The faces of those she’d called friends and allies were twisted in anger and hatred, almost unrecognizable, as they continued to shout at her.

Above the cacophony of their voices rose another, louder and more terrible. The massive skeletal form of Midgardsormr loomed high above the others, his eyes glowing as he glared down upon her.

“Her Blessing is wasted upon one such as you.”

She could not do anything but stare up at him in horror as energy gathered around his head, shooting out towards her. Instead of striking her, it connected with the cage around her. The bars shimmered before fading away completely leaving nothing between her and the angry mob.

They descended upon her and she knew no more.

—-
Perhi shot upright in her bed, her mouth open in a wordless scream. The sound of it reverberated off the stone walls of her chamber before it cut off suddenly as Perhi slapped her hands over her mouth. Her eyes darted back and forth, searching for the figures who had surrounded her. But she was alone.

Her shoulders began to shake and tears streamed from her eyes as the terror of her dream faded into the stark depression of her reality. Her knees drew into her chest as she began to rock back and forward, her face pressed into her knees. Everything said in her nightmare had been true. She hadn’t been able to protect the other Scions. Instead each of the others had stayed behind to slow down their pursuers. Even Menphina, who had no combat experience as far as Perhi was aware, had chosen to make a stand so she could escape. How could she, renowned as the hero of Eorzea, fall so low.

Sunk deep in her misery, Perhi did not hear the frantic knocking on the door to her chambers. It wasn’t until a weight settled next to her on the bed and long arms wrapped around her drawing her close that she realized she wasn’t alone. Her head snapped up, turning towards the person holding her. The dim light from smouldering embers in the fireplace caught on the silver-blue hair and angular features of Haurchefant Greystone. He looked down at her, worry clearly visible on his face.

Perhi stiffened slightly, trying to hide how affected she still was. She rubbed her eyes harshly, sniffing back another round of tears as she tried to put her usual masks back on.

Haurchefant’s face softened at the sight of her tears. “Tis alright, my friend. You have suffered many trials in recent days. I have said to take these halls as your sanctuary.” He took her hands between his. “I did not mean that only physically. I shall do all I can to safeguard your mind until you are able to see brighter days once more.”

Perhi kept her eyes fixed on his for a moment longer before crumpling into his arms, her entire body wracked with sobs. She faintly heard his soothing murmurs as he stroked her back comfortingly until she fell back into an exhausted–-and thankfully dreamless–sleep.

Chapter Text

If there was one thing Coerthas had become known for in the years since the Seventh Umbral Calamity it was its frigid, unforgiving environs. Long gone were the days of lush fields and temperate summers, both had been relegated to distant memory. Now snow and ice stretched as far as one could see and blizzards were just as likely in summer as in winter. The cold had a way of creeping in everywhere making it impossible to get truly warm, no matter how one bundled up nor how high the fires were stoked within their grates.

It was for this reason that Perhi was no longer surprised when she awoke to wind rattling the small shuttered window in her borrowed bedroom. She didn’t bother getting up, if she’d learnt anything during her extended time in Coerthas, blizzards meant staying within the walls of Camp Dragonhead until the storm passed. If not for her own sake, but to spare her friends the worry over her well being. She’d nearly gotten lost the first, and last, time she’d ventured out into the Coerthan wilds during one since they took refuge with Haurchefant. She’d never forget the fear in Tataru and Alphinaud’s eyes when she returned blue and shaking from the cold, nor the scolding she had received from Haurchefant when he had heard.

It seemed none of them could bear the thought of losing another friend.

Perhi curled up tighter in her bed, shivering beneath its thick blankets. No matter how many coverings she had, how thick her clothes were, nor how high the fires had been stoked—though she was sure the one in her room was presently little more than embers—she could not get warm. It was as if she’d left all warmth behind when they'd been forced to flee Ul’dah.

The Sultana’s banquet had been more of a trap than a celebration. Nanamo Ul Namo had been assassinated–poisoned–in front of her. The Monetarists, with Talejdi Adaledji at the lead with help from the Crystal Braves, had accused her and all of the Scions of regicide and conspiracy. They’d been forced to scatter and flee. By the end of the night, only five of their number remained accounted for: Perhi, Lively, Tataru, Alphinaud, and Urianger. They didn’t know if the others had escaped, been captured, or worse. Nor did they know who to trust, for in their hour of need each of the other city-state leaders had turned away leaving the scions to face the accusations alone.

Thankfully not all of their allies had abandoned them.

Haurchefant Greystone had welcomed the remaining Scions to Camp Dragonhead with open arms, promising them refuge until their names were cleared. While Perhi, Tataru and Alphinaud had accepted his offer, Urianger and Lively elected to remain in the Waking Sands, seeking information about the rest of the Scions whereabouts and what had truly happened that night. While they investigated, those in Coerthas had little to do but wait. Wait for answers and wait to be allowed into Ishgard. With the recent Dravanian attacks, the city’s defenses were higher than ever, leaving its gates shut to outsiders. Haurchefant assured them he was doing all he could to gain them entry, but that it would take time.

In the meantime there was little the three could do to fill their days.

Perhi found that inaction did not suit her, nor did it suite her increasingly mercurial moods. From day to day she found her moods shifting from sullen silences to wild rages. Tataru and Haurchefant—Alphinaud remained too deep in his own guilt and grief to note anything beyond his own misery—did their best to uplift Perhi during the former and as for the latter, the number of beastkin roaming outside of the keep had greatly diminished since they’d been in residence. Her new Warrior job stone was getting plenty of use these days. It did not help that their movements were restricted to the environs around Camp Dragonhead going perhaps as far as Whitebrim when the weather allowed. They did not know if the Crystal Braves were on the lookout for them and decided it was better to not test fate by venturing too close to Mor Dhona or the other city-states.

Perhi curled up tighter. She knew she should stop brooding, get up and see if there had been any news, but she wasn’t sure she had the energy to put on her Warrior of Light facade. Just as she was about to pull her blankets over her head to drown out the world for a few more bells, a soft knock on her door reached her ears.

“Perhi?” A soft voice called through the door. “Are you awake? It’s Tataru. Lord Haurchefant has received word from Ishgard.”

—-
Perhi completed her morning ablutions as quickly as she could so that she might join the others. While little truly piqued her interest recently, sharable news from Ishgard was something of a novelty. After the first few missives from the city did nothing but dash their hopes of moving on from their refuge at Camp Dragonhead, Haurchefant had stopped calling for them whenever more had arrived. That did not stop Perhi from being acutely aware whenever a messenger entered the fortification.

Both Tataru and Alphinaud were already waiting by the time Perhi entered the Intercessory. While Tataru turned to Perhi with a warm, but hesitant smile, Alphinaud continued to stare into the fireplace, obviously caught up in his own thoughts. Perhi forced herself to return Tataru’s smile, hoping the lalafell wouldn’t look too closely and notice it did not reach her eyes. Perhi felt the most guilt for leading Tataru into this situation. Of the three of them, she was the only civilian and had been far from Ul’dah when the Scions were betrayed.

“The dawn's light will shine again…” Alphinaud finally spoke, drawing Perhi’s gaze. She thought he seemed to be speaking more to himself than anyone else. He turned towards Perhi and Tataru, a serious expression on his youthful face. “So long as we have these specious accusations hanging over us, we will struggle to achieve anything.” He looked between the two women; none of his former bravado seemed to remain within him. “You must go to Ishgard, as Tataru proposed. I will return to Ul'dah and set things right.”

Perhi’s ears flattened against her skull; she hated that idea immediately. What was the point of all of them fleeing if Alphinaud was just going to turn around and throw himself at the nonexistent mercy of the Brass Blades and the Syndicate. She opened her mouth to protest but before she could say anything another voice chimed in.

“Pray do not be so hasty, Master Alphinaud.”

Perhi turned towards the door in surprise. Hauchefant stood next to the door, his attention focused on Alphinaud. While she knew he was soon to join them, she had not heard the door open nor his entry into the room. He had obviously arrived in time to have heard Alphinaud’s, in Perhi’s opinion, idiotic plan.

“Full well do I understand your desire to clear your names,” Haurchefant cautioned, “But now is not the time for drastic action. You yet have allies upon whom you can rely. There is no need to act alone.”

Perhi forced herself not to nod too vigorously when Alphinaud turned, seeking her and Tataru’s opinions. “I think we’re better sticking together for now. You are the best of us at seeing the big pictures and connecting things.” Perhi did not want to hurt Alphinaud’s already bruised feelings by saying exactly what she thought of his plan to surrender.

“Even after everything with the Crystal Braves?” Alphinaud asked. “I did not see their betrayal coming until the sword was at my throat.”

“Even then,” Perhi spoke firmly. “I should have brought my concerns to you earlier. For all your cleverness, Alphinaud, you are still young.”

Alphinaud grimaced at the reminder, but appeared to accept Perhi’s words.

That settled, Haurchefant turned to the reason he had gathered them into the Intercessory: the missive he had received from Ishgard. Count Edmont de Fortemps, the head of his House, had agreed that the three of them would be made wards of their house, granting them entry into Ishgard proper. They’d be able to use their manor as a new headquarters while they resided in the city.

Haurchefant smiled at the three of them warmly as he finished relaying the Count’s offer. “Needless to say, should any of your missing allies be found─as I am certain they shall─they will of course be welcome to join you there.”

Perhi was mildly surprised when Alphinaud again turned to seek her and Tataru’s opinion on the matter before turning to accept the offer on their behalf. Just a few moons ago he would have accepted on their behalf immediately. While Perhi wished recent events had never happened she couldn’t help but appreciate Alphinaud’s more humble attitude since then.

“The count is a good man and just,” Hauchefant assured them. Now that the offer was settled he appeared more ready to extoll on the virtues of the head of his House. “He will treat you with the kindness and respect that a hero─and dear friend─deserves.”

As the three of them separated to make their preparations to enter Ishgard, Perhi felt a spark of hope rise within her. She could only hope Haurchefant’s faith in Count Edmont and in their lost allies' return would prove true.

—-
Tataru’s reminder to dress warmly before they left Camp Dragonhead proved apt as the three Scions made the long journey across the Steps of Faith. There was nothing shielding them from the freezing, whipping wind and ice. Perhi had crossed the Steps before, but this journey felt infinitely longer and colder than she remembered it being, though the lack of attacking dragons and heat of battle might have had something to do with that. Her nerves rose as more and more of the towering spires and parapets emerged from the fog with every step they took. She could not help but feel as if the rug would be pulled out from under them at any moment. That they’d reach the gates closest to the city, only to find their entry barred.

It wasn’t until they were standing in the main aetheryte plaza that the realization they had finally made it to Ishgard fully hit her.

The city was unlike any other she had been to. It might have perched on rocky cliff faces like Limsa Lominsa and possessed tall defensive walls like Ul’dah but it was distinctly different from either city. The only similarity she could see between it and Gridanai was the number of Elezen and Hyur that made their homes there. Ishgard had built layer upon layer, centuries of new construction rising over the old until it emerged through the mists as if floating in the air, sunlight glinting on its many spires. The buildings seemed taller now that the three were in the midst of them than they had been when crossing the Steps and, from what they looked like, they were not yet even in the more affluent areas of the city.

Alphinaud and Tataru seemed just as struck as Perhi felt looking around at the buildings towering around them.

“Gods... I feel like a child in a giant's castle!” Tataru murmured, her eyes wide.

Perhi nodded in agreement. “It is something…”

Looking closer, evidence of the recent Dravanian attack was everywhere. Piles of rubble lay scattered in the streets and wooden scaffolding was already being erected along the outermost buildings which seemed to have borne the brunt of the attack. Groups of armed knights patrolled the ramparts and square, ready for the next attack. The few citizens lingering in the plaza seemed on edge, staying close to buildings for cover and glancing up at the sky warily every so often.

It did not take them long to find the House Fortemps servant waiting for them. Indeed, the man noticed them first, beckoning them closer. Thankfully Alphinaud took the lead in making their introductions to the waiting House Fortemps servant as Perhi was still too distracted examining their surroundings to do more than smile and nod politely before looking around once more.

Perhi’s nerves continued to rise as they left the lower levels of the city and the buildings around them became more and more grand as did the people. Gone were the worn linens and wools of the tradespeople and poor, replaced with heavy silks, furs, and brocades. In their traveling clothes, she, Tataru, and Alphinaud stood out like sore thumbs—especially Tataru and herself. She had not seen a single Lalafell or Miqo’te in the city so far. She could feel the fur of her tail poofing out slightly as it flicked nervously with each person they passed. She couldn’t tell if the way the three of them were examined was with distrust, interest, or disgust. For all that she had lived among the Elezen and Hyur of Gridania, she had never fully mastered the skill of reading their expressions.

It was almost a relief when the manservant pointed them towards a large manor house bearing the House Fortemps crest. It was not as imposing as she had anticipated. She knew that House Fortemps was one of the four high houses—the very top of Ishgardian society—and she had expected to find their home more ornate. Aside from a spire here and there on the roof there was little by way of external decoration. That the three story house was well built and stood alone on the corner of the square where it was situatated—a far cry from many of the other buildings lower down in the city–did speak to the family’s elevated station.

As welcome as the sight of their destination was, even more welcome was that Haurchefant was waiting for them near the manor’s front steps.

“The Warrior of Light and her brave companions, walking the streets of Ishgard at last! What a glorious sight!” There was no mistaking the undisguised delight upon Haurchefant’s face as he caught sight of them. Perhi felt most of her nerves subside at his welcoming face. “I cannot tell you how long I have waited for this day. Allow me to present to you my family home: Fortemps Manor!” He stepped aside, sweeping his arms towards the double doors to invite them in.

Perhi let her eyes wander over their surroundings as they were led through the entry hall and into a large receiving room.

For all of the manor’s external austerity–well, as austere as the home of this level of society could be–this room matched her expectations of an Ishgardian high society manor. She did have to admit that for all the rooms’ formality it still gave off a welcoming air. Part of that might have been because of the roaring fire in the massive fireplace on the far wall. After the last few bells in the cold, the warmth was a welcome respite. As she looked around curiously she noted every detail with wide eyes. The walls were lined with a fine red wallpaper and dark wooden panelling while black marble pillars decorated with gold supported the vaulted stone ceiling. Plush carpets covered the stone and marble floors, and more couches that Perhi thought the family could possibly use were placed around the edges of the room.

It was far grander than any place she had ever expected to find herself.

What truly drew her attention were the vases full of what she only could assume were hot house flowers. They were the first natural pops of color Perhi had seen since arriving in Coerthas and she had to fight the urge to rush to the nearest one and bury her face in the fragrant blossoms; she doubted that would endear her to their host–who was standing in front of the largest of the vases observing the trio as Haurchefant introduced them. Perhi flushed at being caught staring at the room’s trappings. She tried to put a pleasant smile on her face as she felt herself being examined while Count Edmont welcomed them warmly into his home, but was uncertain as to if she had succeeded or if she looked as if she needed to be excused to the privy.

It was a relief when yet again Alphinaud took the lead in speaking for the Scions. It was obvious he felt completely at home in these settings. It made Perhi wonder what kind of upbringing he and his sister had.

Perhi’s gaze drifted towards the two young men standing behind Count Edmont as she listened to Alphinaud and the Count exchange niceties. Based on the resemblance, Perhi could only assume they were the Count’s sons. While their father seemed to be all friendliness, the younger men behind him did not seem to share his enthusiasm for the Scions presence in their home. Though they seemed willing to follow their father’s direction in welcoming them into their household, the older one eyed them with a thinly veiled suspicion while the younger looked disinterested in the entire meeting.

Her full attention snapped back to her companions as Alphinaud finally broached the reason they’d sought refuge in Ishgard.

“Forgive me, my lord, but...are you not concerned? To accept foreign guests at such a juncture─especially ones with our...reputation…” His voice trailed off as he sidestepped the accusations against them.

Count Edmont shook his head, the warmth in his voice never wavering. “Do not worry yourself on my account. 'Tis true that Ishgard's first thought has ever been the war effort, hence the closing of our borders...Yet it is in troubled times most of all that men should seek allies, don't you think?” He paused, his smile widening slightly as he looked at each of them in turn.

Perhi could not help but return his smile. She already liked Count Edmont. Between his warmth and confidence she felt her own rise in return. She only hoped others in Ishgard would agree with Count Edmont’s sentiments, but that hope immediately faded as he acknowledged that his acceptance of them would have drawn the attention, but not necessarily the support, of the other High Houses and authorities. It seemed as if House Fortemps was of a more liberal mind compared to the other Houses.

“But so long as you continue with your altruistic endeavors, I doubt my honored peers will feel moved to voice their concerns,” he advised.

The three remaining Scions understood immediately. Help Ishgard achieve its goals and the other Houses would be less likely to cause problems for them. Luckily it was not in their nature to stand by when others needed help. Alphinaud assured Count Edmont that they had every intention of continuing the Scions’ work, even with their diminished numbers.

Perhi let out a soft sigh, trying to keep the smile on her face as she nodded her agreement. Sometimes she wished people would accept her for herself and not what she could do for others. Those that did were few and far in between. Even the Scions had been more interested in her abilities than in her. Outside her family—and Lively—the last person she met who had almost immediately wanted to spend time with her and cared for her beyond being the Warrior of Light had been…

G’raha.

She tried to push the heavy weight of his memory away before it took hold. She could not let it weigh her down, not right now. At least she knew where he was, unlike her other friends, and that was safe within the Crystal Tower. There was too much she needed to do than to dwell on the thought of what could have been. It would serve no purpose but to cause her more grief and she knew G’raha would not want that for her.

Luckily right as Perhi felt her feelings start to overwhelm her, Count Edmont suggested they take the opportunity to tour Ishgard properly. She nodded eagerly at the suggestion. The cold and new sights would take her mind off things better left alone.

“'Twould seem a tour of the city is indeed in order,” Alphinaud agreed in a far more stately manner than Perhi could have achieved. “I thank you for your counsel, my lord. My companions and I shall of course do as you suggest.”

Count Edmont seemed to approve of their enthusiasm, offering a manservant to guide them around the city as well as providing them the paperwork that would prove them wards of the House. With everything in order, Count Edmont’s manservant led the way outside the manor.

However, before Perhi could follow the others outside, Hauchefant called out to her.

“One last thing, my friend!” He pulled her to the side to speak privately. “I shall likely be on my way back to Camp Dragonhead when you return. As much as I would like to stay while you settle in, duty calls me away.” Hauchefant smiled warmly at her, but Perhi couldn’t help but notice a slight tension in the way he held himself. If she had not known him so well she might have missed it.

“I understand,” Perhi reassured him. “We shall be well enough I’m sure of it.” Her tail flicked behind her. She was still nervous in spite of her words. “I must thank you again for all you have done for us. I do not know what we would have done without you.”

“Think nothing of it,” he ordered gently. “I am full glad to have been able to aid you.” He paused, his eyes focused on hers warmly, but intently as well. “I will always do so, as much as I am able.”

Perhi looked away, thankful though slightly uncomfortable under his focused attention. “You are a good friend, Haurchefant. I hope I can return the favor one day.”

Hauchefant cleared his throat, straightening up. The sudden tension between them broke.

“I shall not reveal your nor the others' presence here, but is there anyone whose messages I should pass on should I receive them? Your family? Other friends? Beyond those already in the know that is?”

Perhi shrugged. “Perhaps my family? I don’t know how much they might have heard of recent events…” She bit her lip thinking it over. “If anyone from the Wahondalo family comes asking, could you tell them I’m well? I don’t think they’d make the journey across the Shroud and into Coerthas,” she warned, “but on the off chance one of them does?”

“Of course.” Haurchefant hesitated a moment, before asking “What of your friends among the Sons of St. Coinach, was it? I recall you spending quite a bit of time with them recently…that G’raha Tia fellow?”

“G’raha Tia is currently unable to speak with anyone.” Perhi found herself declaring woodenly. In the moons since the Tower had been shut she had not had the opportunity nor strength to tell Haurchefant how her adventures in the Crystal Tower had ended. “He’s gone.”

Haurchefant blanched. “Ah, I didn’t… I am sorry for your loss. He sounded like a fine friend."

Perhi swallowed tightly. “Thank you…he didn’t die per se,” she clarified. “It’s a long story that I’m not equal to share right now…”

“I understand. I have a ready ear if you ever are,” Haurchefant offered kindly. He seemed to regret forcing her to remember another of her many recent hurts. He gave her a reassuring smile before continuing, “If any Wahondalo’s make their way to Camp Dragonhead I shall assure them you are well and take any messages they have for you.”

Perhi could have hugged him for not pressing further. “Yes, please do. I know you have many pressing duties, so even if it's just a note sent here I appreciate it.”

Haurchefant bowed gallantly. “Your servant. Now you have a tour of Ishgard to attend to and I have to take leave of the Count. Next time we meet I hope you shall regale me with tales of the adventures you find here.”

Perhi let out a soft laugh at his theatrics. He always seemed to know how to raise her spirits. She gave a pass at a curtsy before heading towards the doors and out into the late afternoon sun.

She had a city to explore.

Chapter Text

As much as Perhi would have preferred to have had longer to familiarize herself with Ishgard and her new, hopefully temporary, home, she fully grasped the necessity of making herself useful. Not only to thank Count Edmont for his hospitality and the risk he took vouching for them—not that he’d required them to do so—but also that more resources could go to bolstering the city's damaged defenses. The tour she, Alphinaud and Tataru had taken of the city had shown how heavy of a toll the recent Dravanian attacks had dealt to the citizens, especially the poor living in the Brume. Most of the knights had been assigned to protect the Pillars when the dragons attacked leaving the lower levels less defended in the assault.

From what little Perhi picked up during their visit to the Forgotten Knight, the tavern that served the lower sections of the city , few resources were being put to restoring the Brume, prolonging the suffering of those living there.

With Tataru choosing to make the Forgotten Knight her base of operations, that is staying where she could keep an ear out for gossip from beyond the Gates of Justice, Perhi was sure that they’d soon hear some word regarding their missing allies as well as know all the secrets of Ishgard. Tataru’s skill with drawing out gossip was beyond anything Perhi had seen. Once again she was glad that the Lalafell was on their side.

As for Alphinaud, Count Edmont recognized his talents were best put to use on the administrative side of securing resources for the city—seeking trade partners, negotiating contracts and the like. As much as Alphinaud had been made a fool of by the Syndicate’s funding the Crystal Braves, that was the kind of work he thrived in. Perhi hoped he’d regain some of his lost confidence in the process.

Perhi was unsurprised when Count Edmont requested she assist his sons with their work with the other High Houses—it was what she was best known for—much to the elder son’s dismay and the younger’s delight. She managed to keep a pleasant smile on her face in spite of their frankly insulting reactions to their father’s request–Count Edmont’s continued defense of her skills and experience did help soften that blow–knowing that she would eventually win them over. In her experience most people were more apt to be agreeable once she’d assisted them with a task or two. Her smile faded slightly as Count Edmont led Alphinaud off to familiarize her young friend with his new duties, leaving her alone with his sons. She eyed the two men, considering which one to approach first. They had each retreated to opposite walls of the room the moment their father had left. The younger son was openly eager for her help, but she had the feeling his task would be less pressing than that of the older, but more unwelcoming brother. Better to have the whole picture she decided, and speak with them both…but perhaps the friendlier one first to break the ice.

“Shall we be off then, old girl?” The younger son asked by way of greeting, before catching himself and properly introducing himself. “Ah, but where are my manners. Emmanellain de Fortemps, second son of Count Edmont de Fortemps─trueborn, that is.”

There was something in the way he said “trueborn” that caught Perhi’s ear, but Emmanellain continued rambling before she could question it. She didn’t think it was disdain, but it didn’t sound positive.

“Yes, yes─I know what you're thinking, and you are absolutely right. What ill fortune to be born second in a society where the eldest inherits all. Oh, my brother would never cut me off, 'tis true, but who could be satisfied subsisting on a meager allowance, forever overshadowed by his sibling?” He did not wait for her before answering his own question. “Not I, old girl, not I! Which is why I need your help to ensure that this business in the Sea of Clouds goes swimmingly, so that the tales of my great deeds can win me a place in the people's hearts─or better yet, raise me higher in their estimations than Artoirel! Ambitious, I grant you, but then I do have a legendary hero to do my bidding! Hah hah hah!”

Perhi could feel her ears flatten and tail bristle. She was there to help, not to do his bidding.

Emmanellain seemed to realize he overstepped. “Oh, don't look at me that way! I jest, I jest! Anyway, we are to aid the good men and women of House Haillenarte. They have ever been steadfast friends to our house─though they've fallen on hard times since the Calamity, poor blighters. As for what precisely we will be doing, well... What fun would it be if I told you everything in advance?”

“More fun for you perhaps,” Perhi shot back, keeping a friendly smile on her face to try and take the sting from her remark. “However I believe I should see what your brother’s duty is before committing to a venture.”

“Ah, ever the responsible hero,” Emmanellain shook his head. He did not seem truly disappointed. “Though you assisting Artoriel first would give me time to see to my…business here before leaving the city…” He nodded in satisfaction. “It is decided, go help my boring older brother with his duties then return to me. I shall keep myself occupied until you return.”

Perhi decided she did not want or need to know about Emmanellain's business as she excused herself to approach the elder brother.

He looked mildly apologetic at her approach, brushing a strand of dark hair out of his face. “Let us begin anew, Mistress Winkle. I am Ser Artoirel de Fortemps, eldest son of Count Edmont de Fortemps.” He bowed respectfully towards her, obviously having taken his father’s scolding seriously. “You will forgive me my outburst, I hope. I meant no disrespect. I merely consider myself equal to the duties entrusted to me...unlike some.” His eyes darted over to where his younger brother slouched lazily. He shook his head before returning his attention to Perhi, giving her a once over before speaking. “...Haurchefant has spoken of you often. If you are even half the woman he claims, I shall be glad to have you at my side.”

“I hope to do his tales justice,” Perhi answered with a forgiving smile. Artoriel had made a pretty enough apology for her to accept. She’d rather avoid the awkwardness that holding grudges against her hosts could cause.

Artoriel let out a relieved hum at her smile. “To the matter at hand, then: we will be assisting my esteemed compatriots of houses Durendaire and Dzemael. You are aware of our friendly rivalry, I take it?”

Perhi nodded. “I’ve heard that they can be…challenging to deal with, yes.”

Artoriel let out a huff of laughter at Perhi’s read on the situation. “Aye, well, suffice it to say, the prospect of assisting said houses does not fill me with joy. However, it is the will of the Holy See that we set aside our differences at this crucial juncture.”

Perhi nodded slowly. “So the better our work assisting them the better House Fortemps looks in the eyes of the Holy See while, perhaps, one upping your friendly rivals?”

Artoriel nodded, the hint of a smile he’d worn on his face widening to a true one. “Quite so. First, we must needs secure transport to Falcon's Nest. Let us make for the chocobo stables in Foundation.”

—
Falcon’s Nest was not a particularly large settlement, made up of several large stone buildings and protective walls. Defense over aesthetics appeared to be the norm of most Ishgardian architecture, Perhi realized as she looked around while following Artoriel deeper into the settlement. It very much resembled the few other Ishgardian fortresses–both occupied and abandoned–she’d had the opportunity to see. Even Ishgard itself shared many similarities with these settlements, though it was in most ways much grander. Also much like in Ishgard craftsmen bustled about surveying the settlement and making repairs to the damaged structures, though it appeared that the damage to Falcon’s Nest was not the result of Dravanian attacks but neglect and long term exposure to the elements.

Perhi’s ears perked up in scholarly satisfaction when Ser Redwald, the knight in charge of Falcon’s Nest, confirmed that her musing on the settlement’s damage was correct while giving a brief history of the region during their introduction. Falcon’s Nest had been abandoned, along with the rest of the region, when it became apparent that the snow and ice resulting from the Calamity was not going to stop. There was no choice for those living there, it was freeze to death or flee. Unfortunately in the five years since Ishgard abandoned the Western Highlands the heretics had been able to get a foothold hiding out in the empty settlements. The Holy See had recently decided that the time had come to reclaim the region and root out their foes. Thus the high houses, Dzmael and Durendaire in particular, had been tasked with restoring the settlement to its former state and hunting down any heretical forces.

Though Artoriel and she had come to a reasonable understanding with each other, Perhi was happy when he dismissed her to seek out the foreman and begin assisting the settlement while he and Ser Redwald spoke on the heavier topics of how to deal with the heretics. She hoped that having some physical activity would drive off some of the bitter cold, in addition to working towards her and Artoriel’s mission.

—
Aside from checking in with her at each day’s end, Artoriel had left her to her own devices which Perhi appreciated as the craftsmen of Falcon’s Nest kept her busy over the next few days. So far her tasks had been nothing out of the ordinary: hunting down beastkins, recovering stolen property, or finding artifacts long lost in the snow. In spite of their mundanity, Perhi had always enjoyed picking up these kinds of little quests. They kept her grounded in the midst of the higher stakes challenges she seemed to now regularly face. She also enjoyed learning more about the new places she visited and the people who lived there through them.

However busy these tasks kept her, they did nothing to keep out the cold. Never before had she been somewhere where the cold was as persistent as it was in Falcon’s Nest. Even when she took her rest within the fortress the cold crept through its drafty halls and into the communal rest areas. Not even the roaring fires that were continuously stoked were able to drive off more than the worst of the chill. Perhi had even taken to keeping her tail tucked within her trousers, deciding the discomfort of confining it was preferable to it freezing off especially when her tasks took her into the wilds out of what little respite the fortress offered.

Which is what her latest task required. She’d had to travel the furthest out into the Western Highlands that she had yet gone, to a place called the Pike where she was to check on and assist one of the masons working there. By the time she had finished helping him and was able to return to Falcon’s Nest it was late in the day. After spending most of the day exposed to the elements she was looking forward to reclaiming what little warmth she could within the fortress’s walls. But that was not to be, Perhi realized finding the settlement in a state of unrest upon her return. Knights were rushing about, gathering as if making ready for action. Instead of seeking shelter within the lukewarm halls, she made her way to where Ser Redwald was normally stationed fearing that Falcon’s Nest was soon to be the site of Ishgard’s latest battle with the heretics or worse the Dravanian hordes. No matter what awaited her, the relief on the Hyur’s face at the sight of her cemented Perhi’s certainty that she was not to find her rest just yet.

“I must applaud your initiative, Mistress Winkle. Rothe tells me you have been quite busy,” Redwald said by way of greeting. “Alas, we have not the time to thank you properly. I have a task to which I would commit all able-bodied men and women─you and Lord Artoirel included.”

Perhi let out a breath, smiling resignedly. “I had a feeling that was the case. What do you need?”

She listened attentively as Ser Redwald explained the situation. It was not as dire as she had feared, but still required urgent action. They had lost contact with one of the reconnaissance parties searching out the heretics hideaway and though Ser Redwald knew not what befell them it was of the utmost importance that they locate any survivors before the unrelenting elements took their ultimate toll on them. Several teams were being sent out to various locations the party could have gone. She and Artoriel would be one of these teams.

“We’ll do our best to find your knights, Ser Redwald,” Perhi said determinedly before making her way to where Artoriel waited for her.

She let him lead her back out of the settlement and into the cold. Thankfully Artoriel was kind enough to shorten his strides so she didn’t have to work to keep pace with him. Still with night falling, they knew there was no time to wait. They followed the icy road past the Pike and towards a towering stone and iron bridge Perhi had noticed earlier in the day but had not ventured near it. Artoriel led her first west of the bridge pointing out their destination: Camp Riversmeet located down at the bottom of the cliff they stood on.

Artoriel shook his head examining the cliffface. “I see no way to descend the cliffs safely from here. Should we fall, the beasts below would make short work of us.”

Perhi nodded. She narrowed her eyes examining what little she could see of the camp from this angle. “There looks to be a small pack of wolves near the camp. I don’t see any signs of other activity, but the snow isn’t helping.” She looked up to Artoriel’s surprised expression. “Keepers of the Moon have keen vision in low light.”

“That is very useful,” He acknowledged approvingly. “Come─I know a path to the riverbed below, east of the Black Iron Bridge.”

He led her around to the other side of the bridge. The path to the bottom of the cliff was much clearer here though they did have to tread more carefully to avoid the beasts and voidsent wandering nearby. Luckily they were able to slip past most of the dangers on their way down to the bottom of the cliff. Unfortunately they had seen no sign of any of the reconnaissance party either.

It was eerily quiet as they approached the outskirts of Camp Riversmeet. Perhi strained her ears for the sound of anything out of the ordinary, but could hear nothing above the increasing fall of snow.

Artoriel also seemed on edge as he surveyed the area. “Hmmm... The camp appears to be deserted, and yet I cannot shake the feeling that...” He shook his head, turning to look at Perhi. “Mistress Winkle, pray search the camp while I stand watch. We dare not let the enemy take us unawares.”

Perhi nodded and quietly began sneaking closer to the camp. With her smaller stature she had a better chance of avoiding detection should there be anyone hiding out. She kept close to whatever cover she could find as she circled around the camp’s destroyed aetheryte, scanning for any sign of the lost knights or other dangers. It wasn’t until she reached the far end of the camp that the sound of anything other than the wind and snow reached her ears.

“No…Keep away, you vile…”

Perhi leapt forward, drawing her grimoire. An Ishgardian knight was attempting to scramble away from the three gaunt figures looming over him. Perhi let out a shout as she let her first spell fly, pulling the figures' attention away from their quarry. She drew them away from the knight, dodging their attacks and firing spell after spell at them. After fighting her way through Garlean castrums and battling Ascians, three half starved heretics were little challenge. When the last one fell, she raced to the knight’s side, examining him as best she could through the layers of armor he wore.

“I’ve got you,” she murmured soothingly as she peered into his face. “We’ve come from Falcon’s Nest to find you, ser.” Before she could say more a sound from behind her made Perhi start. She turned, her grimoire raised defensively as the sound of armored feet approached. She lowered the book in relief as Artoirel appeared from around the closest frozen tent.

“Are you all right? I heard sounds of a struggle.” He looked her over, relief crossing his face as he saw that she was both unharmed and had found one of their missing knights.

Perhi returned her attention to the injured man as Artoriel quickly examined the bodies of the heretics strewn about.

“Three heretics slain and one knight saved, just like that. You certainly live up to your reputation, Mistress Winkle.” He sounded more than a little impressed.

“You can drop the Mistress Winkle and just call me Perhi,” she informed him distractedly, flipping through her grimoire for the one healing spell she knew was in there. She examined the calculations and began channeling the magicks she rarely used as Artoriel began questioning the knight. Perhi listened with half an ear as she worked to ease what injuries she could—Physick was not a powerful spell.

The knight informed them that the reconnaissance party had been attacked by heretics while caught in a snowstorm to the north. They had tried to fight them off but, when he realized he was the lone survivor, fled to take shelter in Camp Riversmeet.

“But the heretics tracked you here,” Artoriel finished for him.

The knight nodded, coughing. “...My lord, the heretics' hideaway lies somewhere to the north. We must move quickly, before the snow buries all traces of their passing. For my brothers, we...we must…” He broke off in another coughing fit.

Perhi looked up at Artoriel shrugging helplessly. She had healed as much as she could, but the injured knight needed to be brought back to Falcon’s Nest before they worsened again.

Artoirel immediately understood. “Have faith, ser. Justice will be done. But first, we must see you to safety.”

“I...I can still fight…” Another harder coughing fit overtook the injured man.

“You have done enough, good ser,” Perhi soothed. “You have survived and completed your mission. Let us take it from here.” She looked up at Artoriel. “He must get out of the cold as soon as possible.”

Artoriel nodded, letting out a sigh. “He has the right of it, Mistress Winkle. Whatever remains of the heretics' trail will be gone with the next snowfall. But we cannot very well leave our friend here…”

Perhi watched him, waiting for him to come to some decision on what they’d do next. One of them would have to continue on while the other took care of the knight.

“I will see him to Falcon's Nest and gather reinforcements,” He finally decided. “In the meantime, I would have you search the area to the north of the camp for signs of the attack. Should you pick up the heretics' trail, do not wait for me─follow it back to their lair forthwith, being sure to leave me some clear footprints...I realize that this plan may place you in considerable danger, but I see no alternative.”

“Understood. I’ll give you a clear path to follow.” Perhi let a grin cross her face. She could definitely weave a path of destruction for them to follow.

“Rest assured we will not be far behind. And Perhi...thank you.”

—
True to her word Perhi left a wide path for the reinforcements from Falcon’s nest to follow. It was not long after she left Camp Riversmeet that she ran into another band of heretics. She managed to dispose of most of them with little struggle–all but one that is. The last heretic fled before she could get a good hit on him, leading her on a chase through the snowbanks. Between his longer legs and familiarity with the terrain, Perhi was only just able to keep him within sight, though he managed to remain well out of the range of her spells. Unfortunately in her haste to follow him, Perhi did not pay as close attention to her surroundings as she might have otherwise, drawing the attention of several frost grenades and other beasts that roamed nearby. By the time she finished them off, her quarry had vanished. She knew he could not have gotten far; it had not taken her too long to dispatch the beasts. It only took a quick survey of her surroundings before she caught sight of a promising hideaway–what looked like an abandoned mill or farmstead. As she ventured closer she noticed numerous sets of footsteps heading towards and away from the main building; some were nearly faded, but at least one set was very fresh.

She cautiously approached the main building, keeping an eye out for anyone lurking around. There was no sign of anyone as she reached the front door. She took a deep breath and stepped just out of the doorway, her fingers dancing nervously on the cover of her grimoire, before she pushed the door open half expecting to be immediately attacked. When no attack came, Perhi poked her head around the doorframe. It appeared to be a stable…an empty stable. She cautiously entered the room, continuing to peer about for anyone hiding in its nooks and crannies. She let out a slow breath, heading towards the archway at the far end of the room. It led to a staircase down to a basement level.

It was upon reaching the bottom step that the expected attack came. The basement was full of heretics, all of whom were ready to defend themselves. The tight quarters and strain of her previous encounters made this fight the most challenging of the day, though Perhi still made fairly quick work dispatching the heretics. While she would have preferred leaving some of them alive for questioning the ferocity with which they defended themselves left her no other option. She knew if she had been in their positions she would likely act the same.

She was panting by the time the last heretic fell.

“Looking for me, I presume.”

Perhi spun about, another spell on the tip of her tongue before she realized who had spoken.

Lady Iceheart.

Perhi let the gathered aether fade. The only time the leader of the heretics had proven eager to exchange blows was when she had taken the form of the primal, Shiva.

“Ahhh, the child who glimpsed the truth.”

Perhi let out an aggravated hiss as Midgardsormer appeared for the first time since she crossed the Steps of Faith. Most of the time she tried to forget that every move she had made since the father of dragons had broken her blessing from Hydaelyn had been under his watch. Most of the time she tried to forget that she was without the blessing as well. It was hard to do so when Midgardsormer brought both facts up most of the time he deigned to show his presence. Though currently it appeared that he was more interested in speaking with Iceheart than ridiculing Perhi. The dragon flew closer to the silver haired elezen.

“She cameth unto me, as didst thou. Alike in gifts, yet set upon different paths.”

Some of the hostility faded from Iceheart’s stance as she shifted her gaze to Perhi. “He speaks true, Warrior of Light. Like you, I have been blessed with the Echo.”

Perhi let herself relax as she listened to Iceheart’s story. She probably should have tried to take the heretic’s leader into custody–if any of the Ishgardian’s discovered them in conversation it would not reflect well on Perhi–but she was interested in learning more of Iceheart. There were plenty of similarities in Iceheart’s past to Perhi’s own. They had both been young when the visions started, terrifying and without warning. The calamity had caused both lands they called home to rise up against them. Perhi shivered, remembering the terror of the Shroud shaking around her as Iceheart described her flight from the heavy snowfall that buried villages in a matter of bells.

Perhi had been luckier than Iceheart–indeed luckier than many. She had lost very few loved ones during the chaos that followed Dalamud’s destruction. Perhi was not sure she’d have ever emerged from her trauma if she had lost everyone she loved.

Iceheart continued, describing her flight to Dravania and how she had been found by one of the great wyrms, Hraesvelgr. Her voice grew more fervent as her memories seemed to flow over her. “And it was then that I knew why I had been given this gift, for with it I heard his voice, and saw the truth through his eyes!” Her eyes lit up with almost crazed devotion. “I was chosen to deliver this revelation to the people─to bring dragon and man together, as they once were, and should ever be!”

“And what of the innocents who died when you attacked Foundation? The old and infirm? The children?” Perhi pointed out, shaking her head. Attacking Ishgard was unlikely to bring the two sides together, it would only enflame the urge for revenge and destruction that seemed to be the basis of the conflict. “How is that supposed to bring anyone together?”

Iceheart paused, appearing to feel some remorse as the fanatical light left her eyes. “It wasn't supposed to be like that! You have to believe me! It was...beyond my control... Children taught to fear the skies, who saw their loved ones slaughtered...Yet the Dravanians─though they know where the fault truly lies─fell upon them with such fury…”

Midgardsormr scoffed, merciless. “Men die, and their children forget. But we are everlasting. To us, then is as now. Thou canst not comprehend the violation. The outrage. The fury.”

Perhi did not know much about dragonkind, but if Midgardsormr’s words were true she wondered if peace was truly possible between the two sides.

“I will make this right.” Iceheart shook her head. “I am neither a saint nor a savior─just another sinner. Yet I will not forsake this cause. I cannot. I will see this cycle broken and peace restored. I... We can do naught else, for we are now as one…”

Perhi let out a breath as she watched the other woman slip out one of the side doors. Capturing Iceheart would have raised her value to the Ishgardians, but something within Perhi realized that was the incorrect choice. There had to be some reason Iceheart had also been blessed by Hydaelyn. No sooner had Iceheart left the room than the door above slammed open and the sounds of numerous men in armor filtered down the stairs.

“Mistress Winkle?! Are you well?” a concerned voice called out.

“I’m down here!” Perhi called up. Instantly the room was filled with knights searching every corner. Luckily she was not asked too many questions before being sent back up. Perhi was not sure she would have been able to give a credible answer as her head spun in the aftermath of what she had learned.