Alexander McVries wandered through the petrified remains of the Phantom Forest on his chocobo, Cort. He had been journeying through the Doma Fallout Area for about 3 days, and he knew he was reaching the border where he could cross the containment wall and get to Nikeah. Alex was a somewhat tall guy, was 26,and he was an Old Imperial Magitek Knight.

Or was supposed to be before the old Vector burned. He was built the best they could: He was sane, he wasn't sterile like half of his tubebrothers, and he was exceptional with psionic powers and had mastered the sword 5 years earlier than the norm. Kefka was placed in charge of him, so, although he doesn't use it that often, he was also an exceptional criminal. No point in murdering or raping in a world like this when in some places the ground is made of scrap iron from Axis Vector and Carnifexes terrify the remaining people.

Unless you were on Axis Vector, of course. The sky's your oyster then. There is no law on Axis Vector, Kefka saw to that. You can do what you want aside from harming one of Kefka's men or attacking his women.

He was currently wearing a widebrimmed hat and cloak designed to protect from the radiation poisoning the Eye of Kefka gave off. He stopped Cort and looked around the petrified trees and blasted railway cars, watching the ever widening shadow. Axis Vector was floating over him. The place was pretty well blasted, so the Eye of Kefka wouldn't fire at him here. Probably couldn't detect him anyhow, a fallout cloud was hovering in the air. He just tapped Cort on the head, and he slowly started off. Alex heard a small giggle from the seat behind him, and checked on Jaime. Jaime was a baby he found at the south border of the Doma Fallout Area, where her mother had given him to Alex. Her mother was in the final stage of the Decay, and had melted shortly after he took Jaime from her. So, now he had something to lose. Made him less aggressive, but didn't stop him from his job as mutant hunter.

Alex wrapped her cloak around her, touched her head, and she fell asleep soon after. Alex sighed, an look ahead. He could see the containment wall just ahead. He'd be in Neo Imperial territory, so he'd have to pay 600 Kefcoins to enter. He had plenty since his last job: Hunting and killing a Carnifex that had been killing the cows down at Mobliz. Cows were worth a fortune in the East now, most had moved to the West using the Serpent Landbridge. He stayed a week at the house of some lady named Katarin, then while Katarin and her husband were asleep he left his card and moved on across the Landbridge. Best that way for all concerned. About an hour later, he reached the containment wall. He paid the fee, left the Fallout Area, and made a stop in a small town known as Suedeten. He left Cort at the Chocobo stable and took Jaime with him to the Way Station Inn, where he rented a room and walked up to it without stopping at the tavern. A first for Alex.

He put Jaime to sleep and went through his belongings. His sword, Sanguinus. Titanium chainmesh armor. A Titanium shield, boosted with magic. Several bottles of milk for Jamie. Several bottles of milk laced with vellocet or synthemesc, specially marked for Alex. A thing called a sixshot he looted from a Figaran Outpost in the Mohaine desert, with 900 rounds for it. A change of clothes. Fresh underwear. His bandanna. A book of magic. Half a pack of cigarettes. 14,400 in Kefcoins. His old straight razor, good in a bar fight and a perfect shave as well. By the time he got to counting his money, one of the torches in the room was growing dim. Torches were a bit uncommon, but the innkeeper said some mutant attacked the Makopowplant about 2 days before. He looked at the sputtering torch and concentrated. The tip burst into flames after 2 seconds. One of the good things Kefka did for him when he was gestated in the tube: he made him a Firestarter. He turned back to his inventory and placed in back in his satchel, taking a bottle of vellocetted milk. He hung his cloak and hat on a chair, placed Sanguinus on a table, checked the ammunition in the sixshot, and placed his boots next to the toilet in the bathroom. At least the mutants didn't get the septic tank. He stretched out on the bed. Clean sheets here. And warm, too, just like at Katarin's. Well, Katarin's couch, actually.

Mobliz had done well. It hadn't been Gazed upon yet. Alex stared at the ceiling, then looked out the window behind him. The sun was setting, and he could see a hover fly off of Axis Vec and land out side of Suedeten. Alex guessed it was a Protectorate Defender. Kefka picked them from his entourage to whack the hell out of the mutants to keep his taxpayers safe. He only Gazed upon those who displeased him, like South Figaro and Thamasa. Just as well. He couldn't go there anyway. Kefka knows Alex is still alive, and he always did look after his tubebrothers and tubesisters, like Eileen. Alex was supposed to meet her in the Nikeah Protectorate in a fortnight, and then they would go to Axis Vec for a few days. There Eileen could get a job as a Protectorate Defender, and Alex could get a vacation before returning to his mutant hunter job. He took a sip of the vellocetted milk, and the world turned to a vibrant color of sound slowly. He placed the cap on the bottle, and fell asleep to a good view of The Goddesses And Their All Holy Angels And Saints And Knights.

The next day he woke with a small hangover from the vellocet. He did the usual things he did each morning. He did the usual prayer to the Goddesses, his unseen protectors. He got Jamie, changed her, fed her, and he got some supplies like jerky and some new gloves. He had Sanguinus sharpened while he changed his clothes to blue pants and a white tunic over his chainmesh. He wrapped his cloak around him, adjusted his hat, and left Suedeten. 10 day ride to Nikeah, but he wouldn't have to worry about being ambushed, killed, used as a dartboard, leaving Jamie alone.... forever alone.. But no, he left them all behind in Tzen. Surely George's gang wouldn't chase him through the Fallout Zone, he wasn't that much of an idiot. He put such thought out of his head as he approached a stream. He said the usual prayer to the Goddesses for safe passage. Despite Kefka's training and words of wisdom ("Why the hell would you believe three slut wenches in a book rule us all, boy? You haven't been into my whiskey, have you?") he was still a devout follower. They have to be looking after him, for keeping him alive the past 8 years since he survived the Vector fire and the launching of Axis Vector. He looked at the ground on the other side of the bridge. Green grass. Clean soil, fresh air. He was on his way to Nikeah.

He had spent the rest of the day heading down the path, stopping at times to eat lunch, dinner, and to take care of Jamie. Now he was camping in an. abandoned shack by a pond. Cort was outside grazing and poking for minnows in the water. Alex began to wonder about Nikeah. He knew he would meet Eileen there, and he knew the others would be there. The others were his old buds from the Imperium days: Lenny McVries, who was one of his tubebrothers who ended up like Alex did: Sane, potent, and a good fighter, Seth Kinyen, and John Muzalski. Lenny wasn't his actual brother, when you're gestated from a Genebank of frozen sperm and ova in a augmentation tube, you don't have any real family. Instead, you have members formed from the same Lot. Lot-61 McVries was experimented heavily on during the early years of the War, just like Lot-24 Chere was. He remembered reading in the news back in East Narshe that Kefka had one of the Lot-24 members with him on Axis Vector, and that she had recently found and killed a high traitor in his ranks. Anyway, Alex and his friends used to do all sorts of things before they separated when Kefka began Gazing with the eye: Crime sprees, lootings, hunting, it was all beautiful. Then Alex would come home late at night and listen to recordings of the Opera House Orchestra and fall into a deep sleep. He still did that. Eileen was a lady he met in Cid's Lab one day when they were both 12. They spent some time together before she was moved to Maranda. They saw each other at 19, though, and have remained in contact over the years. Alex began to think to himself, Eileen's a Chere, isn't she? He pondered that for a while before extinguishing the fire and laid on his bedroll. Alex, Lenny, Seth, John, and Eileen. Best group of gen-engs in the world.

Alex woke up the a while later and got some jerky out of his satchel and absently munched on it. He looked up at the shack door. It was still night. He never woke up at night unless-- Alex quickly grabbed Sanguinus and his chainmesh and shield, and walked outside. It was several hours before dawn, so there was a little more light than he expected to be. He moved slowly forward, looking for any danger, and saw none. Cort was asleep, he would have awoken Alex if he was in trouble. He lowered Sanguinus, and turned to the shack.

He then saw the thing sitting on the roof of the shack. It was a mutant, and it appeared hostile. It was giving off a light phosphorescent glow, and it resembled a werecrow, like the one he had seen back in the Sabil Mountains. It had changed into the half-crow form, and already its hands had turned into sharp talons. It stood up. Leaped into the air, and flew into Alex, ramming him into the ground. He kick the thing off him and grabbed Sanguinus, which fell from his hand. Kefka had once told him the way to become psychotic in battle using a simple spell, and he quickly chanted the words as they circled each other.

The werecrow made it's move first, leaping into the air again, but by then Alex had the spell cast, and leapt into the air as well, stabbing with Sanguinus and slamming it with his shield. They both fell from the air, and Alex landed on the mutant, and as Sanguinus drank the red blood escaping from the large gaping wound and chewed the organs on the inside, Alex was filled with a large feeling of joy and ecstasy that spread through his body, oblivious to the world around him. He was oblivious to the world around him and to the wasted cries of mercy from the werecrow mutant. He quartered the body and threw it in the lake. He saved a leg and placed it next to Cort for his breakfast. As he entered the shack his only regret was that he had woken Jamie, who laid on her bedroll screaming and crying.

The rest of the 9 day journey was uneventful. He slept by the side of the road or in any shelter he could find, and the only trouble he had was with Cort, who got sick on the final day of the journey. In the end, Alex healed him, but Cort was still very sick. Alex walked beside him all the way with Jamie in the saddle. But he had reached lovely lively Nikeah, with its own opera house and beautiful streets, sign of the rebirth of the Neo Imperium.

He walked with Cort down the street until he came to the Chocobo Stable, where he left Cort with its doctor. He then found his way to the Nikeah Inn, where he rented a room. He was 2 days early, Eileen and the others wouldn't be here just yet. It was nearly night, and he was tired from his journey. Oh, how had suffered over the trip! The last part of the berserk spell was said wrong, and he had been in crippling pain to pick up Sanguinus, leaving it in its sheath, and he felt better after putting away the thing of violence. But, he had not been waylaid, so Alex was joyful for that.

He looked at himself in a mirror over the dresser. His black hair was tangled, and his blue eyes were bloodshot. He drew himself a bath after casting another Sleep spell on Jamie, and sat it the warm water. He was at peace now. He washed himself, placed on his nightclothes, and read the Nikean newspaper while drinking some milk, this time with synthemesc instead of vellocet. He couldn't read it due to the visions the synthemesc gave him, so he fell into a deep sleep and lived out the drug dream the synthemesc was giving him in his mind.

The dream was a psychedelic one, instead of the Goddesses he saw flying sounds and vibrant smells. He wandered the surrealist landscape for hours, until he awoke with the word "Violence" on his lips.

He washed his face and checked on Jamie before changing his clothes. She was still asleep, and would be so for several more hours. He took the newspaper and went to the restaurant section of the Inn. He ordered the lunch special, it being about 11:30, and it was served to him quickly. He scanned the headlines, Axis Vector to arrive in several days, Mobliz is now under Axis protection, and a certain Alexander McVries was to be congradulated for that. Alex smiled and bowed a bit, as Katarin applauded him and said he was welcome if he wanted to return one day. Alex thought maybe he would, and then read the whole paper from start to finish before buying today's paper.

When he was done with that, it was nearly 2 PM. Alex was making up his mind on what to do then. He could go for a bit of the old crimes later, go to the music store, or the bookstore. After all, Nikeah wasn't like the rest of the world. It was Neo Imperium territory, so anything he did would be smiled upon by Kefka. He decided maybe he'd go for something criminal later, and would go to the music store now. He went there and bought a record of the 5th edition of "The East and West" sung by Maria. The 5th edition was the one where Maria falls in love with the Chancellor but stays in love with Draco, and Maria chooses Draco instead of the Chancellor, who exiles them both, but is killed by the Emperor of the East, whose name turned out to be Alex as well. Alex just had to smile at that. This was one of the better script rewrites, and Alex looked forward to listening to it.

He went back to the Chocobo Stable to see that Cort had pulled through. He paid the doctor and took a saddlebag from Cort, which he took to his hotel room. Inside was an electric phonograph. He plugged in the phonograph and turned the lights low as the music came on.

Oh, it was all bliss and Heaven to Alex, who sat there listening to the beautiful falsetto of Maria. Alex lay on his back in a daze, listening to Maria cry her pain to the world, and feeling he was there with her through it all. When the final movement ended, Alex fell asleep with the record, his face covered in tears for Maria.

Alex woke up about 5 hours later. Jamie had woken up about and hour before, and was crawling on the plush chair where Alex had placed her. Alex gave her a bottle of normal milk and watched her drink it, wiping up anything she spilled. Alex then thought of her mother, in the final stage of the Decay, giving Jamie to Alex so that she would live... Even though Jamie was one of the best things to happen to him, the memory still brought sadness. He fed her some baby food next, and decided he would walk the town a bit. He wore his clean clothes, washed his face clean, and took a dagger with him. His first stop was a tavern on the docks, where a crate of vellocet shavings and vellocet fruit was delivered. He had a bite and a drink, and felt like he was a God with an armful of lightning. He was lord, he was God, he was going to have some fun. He bought about 10 velfruits and left them in his room, and went to look around the town for the evening.

The rest of the events faded into a blur mixed with a vellocet dream of the Goddesses smiling upon him and saying they loved him, and he woke to find himself naked in his bed with half his money gone. DidnÕt take long to guess where the money went, but Alex didn't mind. Everything else was there. He did remember he had the sense to put Jamie to Sleep again before he left, and that she was sleeping when he returned. He checked how much he lost: 6,500 Kefcoins. He still had about 7,000, so he had spending money.

He bathed himself, dressed, and went in to the hotel restaurant for breakfast. He ate eggs and bacon with sausage, and drank it with some orange juice. He read this day's paper, and waited for the others to show. And they did, half and hour later.

Eileen came in first, and spotted Alex. She had long, blond hair and blue eyes like Alex's. She was wearing a simple dress and a light cloak, but Alex could see a piece of mesh coming out of one sleeve. She was a mutant hunter like Alex was, and you have to be deceptive. She noticed Alex and sat down at his table.

"Hello, Eileen. How are you?"

Eileen picked up a fork and poked it at Alex's uneaten eggs. "Just fine, Alex. Seth, Lenny and John are in the tavern next to this place. We've taken the overland route this time on a few Black Chocobos. Which way did you get in?"

"I traveled from Mobliz through the Veldt Wasteland to the Doma Fallout Zone. I got by the containment wall and spent some time at a town called Suedeten. From there I took the Great Road to here. I killed this werecrow on the way."

"Really?"

"Yeah. Put up a poor fight when I use the old UV spell on m'self."

"They always do."

"Right." Alex looked around a bit. "So when to the Axis Vec transport land?"

"10 minutes."

"Well, we'd better get Lenny and the rest then. I'll get my stuff."

Alex place some Kefcoins on the table and left Eileen. He went to his room, got his satchel, filled it, got Jamie, wore his hat and cloak, and sheathed Sanguinus. He told the stable owner to keep Cort safe and told him to put the charges on his tab. After that, Alex and Eileen met Lenny, Seth and John at the landing site.

Lenny spoke up first. "Alex! How are ya?"

"Just perfect, Lenny."

"Killed anything lately?"

"A few Carnifexes, a werecrow, several death muties in the Doma Zone."

"Cool."

Seth was next. "Hey Alex, I heard George's out looking for you. Still can't get over how you and me and Lenny and John kicked their stinking asses."

"Let him try! A bit of the old UV and he's gone."

"Amen, brother."

John came last. "Alex, what are we going to do when we get to Axis Vec?"

"Do the usual."

"Great, I had m'sword sharpened lately."

Alex looked at his old friends. Lenny was wearing the same cloak and armor he wore 2 years ago, and it still held. Lenny was tall and skinny, with brown hair and eyes. Seth was a bit shorter than the rest, but had excellent skill with the sword, equal to Alex. He wore a loose tunic over an armor plate, and his cloak fluttered in a sudden wind. His blue eyes stared at the sky every now and then, looking for the Axis Vec transport. John was as tall as Alex, and a bit slower than the rest, but made up for it with sheer strength and dirty fighting. His weapons were a large chain from a Vector metalworks, wound around his waist, and a short sword that was somewhat magical. He had black hard and hazel eyes, and smoked a cigarette. They conversed for several minutes, and inquired about Jamie. Alex told them the story, and after the transport arrived. It was a large airship, and they had 1st class seating. The flight took several hours. Soon, they were at Axis Vector, hovering over the ruins of Figaro.

Axis Vector was basically a very, very large floating continent. It was the size of three of the southern continents placed next to each other. Kefka conjured it after his tower collapsed, and he then proceeding to change the Light of Judgment into a Nuclear Laser known as the Eye of Kefka, which orbits the Continent. Due to Kekfan Law, there are no rules expect if anyone harms Kefka's soldiers or his women, they die. Perfect place for a bunch of criminals.

They found George's gang in an abandoned casino. There were 6 of them, and they were getting ready to rape some girl from a middle class sector. She looked no more that 15. Alex, Lenny, John and Seth heard her screaming across the street, and checked it out. Eileen was applying for a job at the government building.

Alex entered first and watched as the girl struggled before he spoke. "Well well well then." George and his gang friends looked up to see Alex. "If it isn't bloated stinking Georgieboy. How are you, you bloated heap of sewage?"

George pulled a large serrated knife from his pocket. "Just perfect Alex, and better when I slice off your fingers."

"Just let her go and we can avoid anything," Alex said, raising Sanguinus. The others got their weapons, John holding his chain menacingly.

George's only reply was to order his gangers to attack Alex. They charged him and the others and the blood flowed. Alex hit George with the sword handle while John blinded a big guy with an ax by chaining him on the eyelid and he laughed at his pathetic struggles to open his eyes. John then laid into him with his fists while Seth threw one ganger into a panel of glass. Lenny fought next to Alex, kicking George in the crotch repeatedly while Alex worked on his face. Alex held up a hand, and they stopped.

Three of them were on the ground and their legs were broken, or nearly unconscious. Alex heard a piece of Maria's singing waft through the broken window and he knew what to do as he felt the berserker in him come to life. He began singing, punctuating his song with a kick or a punch.

It was an old song sung by Maria when she met Draco in the first edition of "The East and the West" called "Singing in the Rain." Alex was singing in a rich tenor. "I'm singing in the rain (Kick to George's stomach), just singing in the rain (Stomps on his neck) what a glorious feeling (Cuts a ganger with a dagger) I'm smiling again )punches another ganger in the mouth.) As I walk down the lane (boots a ganger in the sides) with a happy refrain (Throws Sanguinus to Seth) the sun's in my heart (Looks at girl) And I'm ready for love (Looks at Lenny and Seth, who raise their thumbs. Alex points to the door.) Oh, I'm Singing (Seth throws Sanguinus to him while John and Lenny hold up a gang member.) Alex then looks at George, whose eyes are wide open. "See all and see well, brother. It'll happen to you if you try that again." Alex grabs the gang member's hand while holding Sanguinus with the other. A few slices and all the fingers are lopped off. Alex then moves on to the other. He then gathers the wiggling fingers and throws them at George, who recoils in terror. Alex, Lenny, John and Seth spit at them and leave the abandoned casino. George looks at them and screams his revenge at them as they leave. Alex's only reply is to set the fingers on fire.

Alex thought back to the first time George's gang ambushed him in Old Albrook. George was a former Imperial torturer who hated Alex for no real reason other than he pissed him off. He got a gang together, jumped him in an alley, and Alex had kicked their ass. He didn't know Lenny, John and Seth were with him.

Kefka walked through the halls of his chambers, waiting for the messenger. He had heard a rumor that one he knew would be here, one he thought died in the Vector Fire. His chambers were rich, exquisite, and disturbing. The corpses of the heroes (all but Celes and Terra) were stuffed and mounted. Special magic used by Kefka kept the blood from the wounds dripping. The walls were covered in Kefka's portraits, made from the magic blood, that depicted their deaths and tortures: Heating Setzer's metal cards and branding him with them, clawing Sabin to death and reviving him so he could do it again and so forth. He began talking to Locke's corpse about the one when he heard a knock at the door.

His messenger was there, who presented the news: "The one you were looking for, Alexander Saner McVries, Lot-61 McVries, gestated on 12-8 by Cid was on Axis Vector with several others: Eileen Jessica Chere, Lot-24 Chere, Leonard Harold McVries, Lot-61 McVries, Seth Rainsford Kinyen, Lot-120 Kinyen, and John Aaronsford Muzalski, Lot-200 Muzalski."

Kefka's eyes went wide and he laughed aloud for 10 minutes before he went to get his Chancellor. "Alex has finally returned! I have taught him well, more than the others, and he has returned! I wonder what crimes he has done on the surface world... the usual, no doubt, but still very very interesting! CHANCELLOR!!!!!"

The Chancellor, a toadying ratlike fellow, ran up to him. "Yes Emperor Kefka?"

"I want my men to find these people." He took the list of names from the Messenger. "I want them alive and in perfect condition. Especially Alex. Failure is death, SO DON'T SCREW IT UP!!"

"Y-yes Emperor Kefka. You heard the man! get some guards!"

Kefka closed the door to his chambers and absently stared at a picture of Terra while pouring a drink. "Soon my heir will arrive. Better make this shack appropriate."

Alex was half asleep in his apartment when the guards came, absently munching on a vellocet fruit. This one was pretty good. He drained the vellocet milk and drank that first before munching on the soft fruit. Jamie was drinking a bottle of normal cow's milk in the next room. He heard a knock at the door, and opened it to see several Imperial guards.

"Yes?"

"Alexander Sanger McVries?"

"No, it's Lenny. Lenny McVries."

"Wrong answer. We already have one Lenny McVries in custody. The Emperor Kefka wants to see you."

"Oh. Well, give me a minute then. By the way, can I drop my kid off at my friend's house?"

"How far away is it?" One soldier asked.

"Down the street a bit."

"Get her and letÕs go."

Alex changed into his Sunday best which he bought last Tuesday, picked up Jamie, and went with the guards. He asked them the usual questions on the way to the Tower, where am I going, why am I going, I'm not sentenced to death am I, and finally arrived. He was lead to a large golden door. It opened, and Kefka was there.

"Hello, Alex. Had a bit of fun lately?"

Alex knew what Kefka's definition of fun was. "Uh, no, ser Kefka. How art thou?"

Kefka's face darkened a bit. "Oh, just fine. Never mind the latter, that will come later. Anyway, Alex, follow me. There is much to discuss."

Kefka sat in his favorite chair listening to Alex talk about himself. I can't believe Geshtal programmed HIM of all people to surpass me. He listens to that damned opera trash. He doesn't like killing outside of the Rage spell. What was that old bastard thinking? At least is still alive. I have taught him well.

"Well, that's all very interesting, Alex. Still remembering what I taught you?"

"Of course, sir."

That's good. Better get down to business. I can't have a loose cannon like him here for long. Best to finish what I started.

Alex sat in a fine stuffed recliner, looking around the room. It was exquisitely furnished, plush carpeting, good solid oak doors. There was a window which overlooked the world outside of the Tower. He looked through it, then reset his gaze back on Kefka. Alex never knew his father. His father was a barrel in a cryofreezer in a Vector Lab. Kefka was the closet thing that came to actually being his father. Being here made him safe, even though he did have a couple of mental problems. "How have things been here, sir?"

"Oh, just fine Alex. Got our bimonthly shipments in yesterday, sent out a few Defenders to the surface and all. By the way your friend was accepted as one."

"You mean Eileen? That's good." Alex looked around a bit more.

I'd better tell him now. "Alex, I've called you here for a reason."

"Yes, sir?"

"Alex, when you left the Vector Institute, your training wasn't completely done. I am willing to train you in that, and if you can succeed, I will make you my heir to the Neo Imperium. Imagine it, Alex. The Eye of Kefka, yours to command. The entire city with it's Imperial army, yours as well. All you have to do is follow my instructions."

Alex thought about this for a minute before consenting. After all, it couldn't hurt. Besides, spending some time with Kefka would be a good thing after all.

Seth looked around the waiting room he was in. The guard at the exit said Alex was in the next room over, and they could see him soon. Seth began wondering why Kefka would want to see him. Seth absently scratched at a varicose ulcer on his right leg while wondering about this. They weren't under arrest, they were able to keep their weapons and armor.

All the while Kefka was talking to Alex they were served Figarian lobster with a light common ale. Not bad treatment. Maybe Kefka knew they were Imperial Magitek Knights, it WAS possible. Seth settled back in his seat and asked a guard for a newspaper.

"Well, it was nice to see you again, sir."

"It was nice to see you too, Alex. I'll see you in a few days, all right?"

"Yes sir."

The door closed behind him and the true nature of the room appeared Kefka held out his palm. The carpeting, the oak, the window all flooded into his hand, showing the true nature of the room: A library. But not just a library, every wall was lined with books of necromancy and hell magic, along with some elder magic as well. Kefka smiled to himself as he picked a volume and sat in his chair. Alex was finally his.

Alex walked out of the room into the waiting area. Lenny jumped up to greet him, and the guards showed them the way out of the Tower. On the street, they were free to talk.

"What did they say, Alex?"

"I told you how I was trained by Kefka, right?"

Seth spoke up. "Yeah, over and over. Does he want to complete it?"

"Yes."

Seth looked surprised, he had meant it as a joke.

"And he said I would be his heir."

Lenny's jaw dropped. Seth looked surprised. John just thought it over. Lenny spoke up first. "Really, Alex?"

"Yeah, really."

"Well then, gentlemen! I believe a celebration is in order!"

And in the end, the celebration was very great.

Alex woke in his apartment the next morning with a hangover. He felt a bit worn out, but was all right. He had vague memories of the party his friends threw at a bar the night before. Shaking away his drowsiness, He got up, and checked his stuff. All there. And asleep. He got dressed, and got breakfast from a cafe. Walking over to Eileen's house, he retrieved Jamie and returned to his apartment saying a quick prayer after getting his supplies and moving on again. He knew the Goddesses were with him because of his meeting with Kefka. Heir to the Empire.

Alex walked the streets of Axis Vector for a while, thinking on what to do. It was too early to have some fun with the guys, so he decided to check on Eileen. She had an apartment on the west side, so he hoofed it over there. He knocked on the door, and Eileen let Alex in. She was looking well today, and happy. Alex and Eileen chatted for a while. She already knew about Alex, and the talked for a while longer about his plans. He left about 3 hours later, it being 6:20 PM now, and went back to his apartment. It was still a bit too early for some fun, so he spent the time watching Jamie, and reminiscing on his childhood.

"Now boy, go on. The sword is an extension of you arm, mind heart and soul. You will learn to use it to crush our foes and smite our enemies. So get out there and practice on the robot." Kefka then thrust a trainer's sword at little Alex, and pushed him into a relatively large room where there was a tall immobile robot. Alex raised the sword, and struck it soundly on the stomach, and deflected its counterattack, striking again in the face. His leg was grazed by the counterattack, but he parried the next and cut at the eyes. Half an hour later, little Alex won his fight swordfight, as his mentor Kefka looked on and smiled.

Alex broke out of this at the sound of a knocking at his door. He opened it to see Seth. "Hey Seth."

"Alex, there's been trouble. Lenny... was.. ambushed by George."

"..."

"He's alive, but, he's been broken up pretty bad."

"Let's go." Alex got Sanguinus and his armor, and wrapped his cloak about him.

On the way to Lenny's place, Alex thought about the first time he had met George.

Alex was 11 the day he met George. He was walking around the streets of Vector, coming home from the cafe, when he was kicked in the back rather violently and crashed into a cobblestone. He turned to see a boy about 16 years old, smiling at him. "I've heard of you, you know. Alex, Kefka's little creation."

Alex tried to stand, but was kicked back down.

"You probably think you're better than us, don't you, scum?"

"No, I don't even know your name!"

The boy simply kicked him in the kneecaps. "George Craighton, tube slime. You'll remember 'cause I'll be watching you." He turned to leave Alex, who had slowly stood up. While George walked away, Alex slowly walked after him, and he got close enough to punch him in the back of the head. George fell on his face as he lost his balance, and then Alex stomped on his back before he ran back to the Palace. He told Kefka about the whole event, and Kefka applauded him. Enemies are always to be hated and destroyed, he told him. He had done well.

Alex arrived at Lenny's place. It was a hotel room he bought from the owner, who was looking to sell it anyhow. Lenny was lying on his back, pressing some ice to his right eye. He talked in a low-pitched rasping croak. "Hey Alex."

"Lenny, where did this happen?"

"An... alley... near the Tower." He paused to cough, sending a few drops of vomit flying. "They just gave me the old beating, nothing broke. They recovered pretty fast, probably got a healer."

"It's cool, Lenny, It's cool, me'n Seth'n John'll find them."

"You'd better go then. I'll be fine, Eileen went to get a doctor, they'll be coming here soon."

"Okay. Stay cool, Lenny."

Hours later they found George's gang in a bar. They didn't see Alex or the others, so Alex simply walked up and punched George in the back of the head, sending a mouthful of beer flying. George spun around and saw Alex, Seth, and John with their weapons drawn. "Did you think we wouldn't find you? Did you think you would escape us? Come on, George, let's finish this."

"Very well, then Alex."

They all left and went into the street. George had 6 people on his side now, and Alex only had 3. The fight started a minute later, with Alex swinging Sanguinus left and right while kicking the enemy as well. John cut a few down with his chain, and Seth was wailing on a guy on the ground with his fist before jumping at another with his throatcutter razor drawn. A few minutes later the odds were even. Alex was fighting George, matching with each strike. Seth brutally kicked one gang member in the face and stuck him with the razor while John picked one up and threw him in the alley. They then watched Alex fight George for about 10 minutes until Alex stabbed him in the stomach. He fell screaming in agony, and passed out. Alex had just destroyed his worst enemy.

Miles away, Kefka watched the event through Alex's eyes like he did before. He truly didn't forget his teachings.

Alex was lying on his bed listening to Maria's beautiful voice on the phonograph. One day, Alex decided, he would meet her at the Jidoor Opera House. She was only a year younger than him, maybe he would ask her out if he had the nerve to. It was nearly 10 PM now, and out his window he could see four guys wielding swords, like he and his friends had, walking by. He smiled at this, and shut off the phonograph. Kefka's training was to begin tomorrow, and Alex wondered what more he could teach him. He walked into the living room. He had placed Jamie on the easy chair, and wrapped her up in a blanket near the fireplace. He sat on the couch and watched Jamie turn over. He sunk onto the couch, and remembered his past.

Alex was 11 or so. He was in the Grand Hall of the Imperial Palace, lined up with his brothers and sisters, generated from the McVries Genebank. Seth was holding a tapestry on a pole above them which read "DEATH WING COMPANY, 262nd TRINARY." The picture on it showed an angel in a black robe, its eyes glowing green, holding a bloodied sword made from bone and its wings made from razors. Alex was wearing his uniform, which was a suit with several medals on it and training patches, with a cloak bearing the Death Wing Company insignia on it. Alex stood at attention sharply as the Emperor Geshtal, accompanied by Sir Kefka, stopped in front of the unit. Next to them were other Companies, each generated from different Lots and Genebanks, all staring at Kefka and the Emperor.

Kefka walked up to Alex, and began to speak. "Your majesty, this is Alexander Sanger McVries, the one I was telling you about the other day."

Geshtal spoke up. "Ah yes, the swordmaster. And a firestarter as well." He then spoke directly to Alex. "So, you're a psychic one, aren't you?"

"Yes sir."

"Show me something then."

"Alright, sir." Alex then looked up and concentrated. A circle of fire appeared in the air, and hovered above Kefka and Geshtal. Geshtal looked surprised at the ring, and turned back to Alex. Kefka looked proud of him.

"An excellent job, Kefka! This is the only McVries firestarter we've had success with. And you've kept him in emotional control as well." He turned to Alex. "Alex, son, there is going to be a special place for you in the Imperium. I can see this coming!"

Kefka nodded and patted him on the shoulder. "Good show Alex. You will be rewarded." Kefka and the Emperor then moved on as the leader of the other Companies presented their talents.

The next memory came up suddenly. He was on top of the Imperial Castle standing next to Kefka, the Emperor, another general named Leo and a blond-haired girl whose name he couldn't remember. The Emperor then spoke into a loudspeaker and the words echoed over the legions of soldiers below. "Warriors of the Imperium! I have seen the Companies of the newly gestated soldiers, and I must say that they are an excellent crowd. Among the best are 2 certain children: Alexander Sanger McVries, trained and mentored by Kefka, who shows excellent abilities with the sword, and can project fire and use other forms of telekinesis. The second is Celes Elaine Chere, trained and mentored by General Leo, who shows promise with Magic and is an excellent swordfighter as well. With these two children, in seven more years we will totally crush our enemies, with them leading the way!" The soldiers below cheered. Alex looked up at Kefka, who smiled at him.

Alex was proud of himself back then. Kefka really was a father to him after all, and he knew he would never let him come to harm.

Alex went to the Tower the first thing the next day. He was wearing his finest clothes, and had brought Sanguinus with him. He left Jamie with Eileen, had a beer for the road with the guys, and then walked there at about 9:30. He was lead to a library where Kefka was waiting. Kefka welcomed him, and thus the training began. Kefka led him to an arena below the Tower. Kefka spoke out. "Alex, your first test will be one of swords. Defeat the monsters I send, and you will have proven yourself."

"Yes, sir Kefka." Alex turned around, and drew Sanguinus. A grate opened, and a Carnifex lumbered forth. Carnifexes were terrible things, deadly mutants from the wastes of the Veldt. Carnifexes were a mass of claws and teeth, and their flesh was made of chitinous plates. It shambled forward and lumbered a war cry.

Now the training truly begins, little Alex, Kefka thought.

Alex assessed the situation carefully. He was wearing his chainmesh, but one slash and it would be all over for Alex. Alex cast the Rage spell on himself, and felt his nerves tense and scream for blood. Alex leapt at the Carnifex, swinging Sanguinus, watching the crimson glory drip from the cuts. He sliced wildly, cutting off a claw, and ducked at the Carnifexes' counterattack. He plunged Sanguinus into a fresh wound, and watched it feast on the soft, gleaming, beautiful organs and drink deeply of the red crimson glory. He pulled Sanguinus out and jumped back. By now, the Carnifex was on the floor, it's life leaking from Alex's attacks. Alex then did the best thing he could: He set it to burn. The Carnifex roared as it was consumed by the flames, and Alex watched, licking the remains of the crimson glory and organ meat of Sanguinus's blade.

Excellent... Perhaps I misjudged him earlier. "Good fight Alex! Couldn't be better!" Alex smiled at him, his teeth covered in Carnifex blood. "Now, do it again." A second Carnifex was released and Alex smiled at the challenge. Sword and claw met in midair, and the first was killed much like the second. A third, and then a fourth came, and Alex fought with joy.

Later, Alex walked back to his room, his stomach full with the meat and crimson glory from the 9th Carnifex. Alex burped a bit and unlocked the door. He turned on the phonograph and listened to beautiful Maria while he took off his bloodstained boots and gloves. He placed them on a table in the bathroom, and checked on Jamie, whom he had retrieved from Eileen. He poured himself a mug of coffee to wash the taste of stale blood from his mouth. He listened to Maria sing for nearly two hours when he heard a knock on the door. He opened it to see Imperial soldiers, and a young lady in a white dress and cloak who was keeping her head hidden under a hood. The lady entered and the guards left. They closed the door behind them. While Alex stood puzzled, the lady handed him a letter from Kefka.

"Alex- Here's a reward for your glorious combat today. I have no further use for her, she is yours. - Kefka." Alex looked even more puzzled, and opened his mouth to speak when the woman broke down, and groveled at his feet babbling a stream of words, mostly "Oh please don't" and "I never did anything to you." Alex then tried to calm her, but to no avail. He picked her up from the floor, and sat her down on the couch. He tried talking to her again, but she just cried.

Alex then went to the kitchen, got a mug of hot coffee, and mixed in some vellocet shavings. He returned to the living room and gave the coffee to her. She drank it, and calmed down as the vellocet took control, calming her. She began to talk and reply when Alex spoke to her. "Uh, hello. I'm Alex. What's your name?"

She looked up at him with bloodshot eyes. "I'm...I'm.. Celes."

"Celes Chere?"

"Yes.. how did you..."

"I saw you as a child. Do you remember Alexander Sanger McVries?"

"Yes. He was at the . . you're him?"

Alex nodded.

"You're not going to... going... to.."

Alex shook his head. The woman breathed a sigh of relief. Alex really didn't know what to do, he hadn't been near a woman for a while. Alex simply drank from his coffee cup, and thought about what to do. In the end, he put his arm around her, and she began to cry against his shoulder. The stayed that way for a while, and fell asleep in each other's arms.

Alex woke the next morning, still on the couch next to Celes, who was asleep as well. She looked beautiful with the light streaming from the window on her face. Alex wrote a note and left it on the table. He had to see Kefka about this.

"Ah, Alex, my boy. Did you enjoy the gift?"

"Kefka, she was in hysterics. She broke down before I could say anything."

"So?"

Alex just stared at Kefka. He was a bright man, but was very dense at times. "So I didn't do anything."

"Why is that?"

Alex just sat down in a chair. Kefka wasn't going to understand through normal conversation. "Kefka, I don't know why you did that, but it was wrong, all right?"

I can't believe this, he actually has REMORSE? Where did I screw up with this damn kid? "Whatever. Anyway, your training for today is with you psychic power." Kefka placed 3 different paperweights in front of Alex. "Now, lift them up." Alex did so. The three objects floated through the air. "Put them down." Alex did that as well. "Now lift these." Kefka placed 3 swords in front of him. Alex lifted them, and had to concentrate a little more. The swords spun in the air, in a crazy dance, until Alex set them down. "Now these." Kefka set 4 large magic tomes. Alex lifted them, but they hung low to the ground. "Good enough." "Now, the true challenge. Lift that bookshelf." Kefka pointed to one filled with books on magic. Alex lifted it a few inches before he lost concentration. Kefka shrugged. "Okay. Back to the arena."

They were in the arena again. The Carnifex bodies were removed, but a large red spot on the floor remained. Kefka opened the grate, and several Magitek Suits walked out. "Okay, lift them." Alex tried, but couldn't. He tried again, but he failed there. Alex grew more frustrated as he tried again and again, then suddenly screamed and the 3 suits exploded. Kefka laughed. "Good, Alex. Now here's your challenge: 2 suits will be placed into the arena. You must use at least one to kill your opponent." Let's see you do this, Alex. A Carnifex walked into the arena. Alex's jaw dropped.

Alex walked back to the apartment with his arm bandaged. He came out of it well, he had passed, but he needed work. He opened the door, and Celes was there, reading a newspaper. Alex was surprised she was still here. "Oh, uh, hi, Celes."

"Hello."

Alex walked in and sat down. He checked on Jamie, she was drinking milk from her bottle. That's good. "So, how are you today?"

"I'm fine. What happened to your arm?"

"Nothing. An accident." It really was, he never meant to set his arm on fire. "Celes?"

"Yeah?"

"How did you end up here?"

"Kefka. He killed my friends at the old tower. The last one is still in the new one. Terra.. I tried to get her to come with me here, but Kefka wouldn't, he said he wasn't done with her." A slight pause. "What will you do with me, and why are you so close to Kefka?"

"Back in the old Vector, Kefka was my trainer and mentor. I was more gifted than most of my tubebrothers. I was sane, for one thing. I wasn't sterile, and I excelled at the sword years earlier than expected. Kefka is like.. a father, you know? I know you're from Lot 21, you were trained by Leo, you know how it works." He paused. "I'm not going to harm you at all. Really. I was trained by him, but I'm not like Kefka. You're safe here."

Celes smiled at that. "Thanks, Alex."

"You're welcome." They sat staring at each other for a minute. Alex spoke up first. "Do you need anything, like clothes, or food, or anything?"

"Just a few things, yeah."

"Okay. You want to go buy them now?"

"Sure."

Alex got up, and used his sleep spell on Jaime. He and Celes left the apartment.

He took Celes out to dinner that night. It was sort of informal, they just stopped by a restaurant and asked if she wanted something to eat. She agreed, and now they were there, Alex eating a medium steak with gravy, Celes eating a fine Jidoorian lasagna. They talked a bit about their plans, Alex to return to his job as a mutant hunter, Celes unsure. Alex hoped Celes would follow him a bit more. He was really starting to like her, maybe he was beginning to.... Alex ate a piece of his steak and they continued talking. Alex then asked Celes when she was born. December 9th, the day after Alex. The conversation went to the usual topics: The weather, the government, proliferation of mutants in fallout areas. After a while they paid the bill and went back to Alex's apartment. Alex placed Celes' packages on the couch, and checked on Jamie. He woke her up, changed her, and began feeding her on some baby food. He called to Celes from the kitchen, where he was. "You can sleep in my bed, if you want. I can use the couch."

"Really? Thanks. Is it any trouble?"

"No, it's fine." Alex finished and got some spare sheets from a closet. Celes then took her packages and went into Alex's room. Alex sighed, laid the sheets out on the couch, turned on a radio and began to read a book, a fictional novel from a popular writer.

Celes appeared a minute later. "Alex... you really aren't going to abandon me, are you?"

"No. I swear I'll protect you." Celes smiled, and walked back into Alex's room.

Seth and Lenny walked down the street, talking to each other about their friends. Seth spoke first: "Haven't seen Eileen for days, not since she got the job. Been at the Tower, she has."

Lenny next. "John's usually at the library. He always was the bookish type."

"Yeah, quite. And now Alex's gone, always working with Kefka. Wonder what he's been doing."

Seth and Lenny stopped in front of Alex's apartment building. Alex lived on the third floor, but it was easy for Seth and Lenny to see the woman changing from her evening gown. Seth stared for a few minutes before beginning to laugh, and Lenny joined him. "Well, we know what Alex's been up to."

"Yeah. She looks nice, Alex did have a good eye." Seth then walked down the street, towards a tavern a block away. Lenny stayed behind a minute before running to catch up.

Alex lay on the couch. He had eaten 2 full vellocet fruits, and was now drifting away into a dream-like paralysis. A vellocet fruit was the size of a mango, a little larger, and had a milk like whiteness to it. This always helped him sleep, and he needed his rest. The training was getting worse, he didn't feel him arm burning until it reached his shoulder. He fell asleep a few minutes later, wondering about tomorrow's training.

Alex was dreaming. He thought he was dreaming. He was walking in a palace in the sky, surrounded by other people, in white robes and armor, laughing and talking with each other. He was caught up in the conversation in a few minutes, and several of the people lead him to a room in the back. From where he could stand, he saw a large fountain, and three people in the back of the room, their faces blurred by a bright light. He knew where he was immediately. He fell on his left knee, and bowed his head. This was Arcadia, the Sky Palace of the Heavens. He must have died from the burn wound. The Goddesses of Life, Magic, and Prophecy were here to welcome him, or send him to Hell.

The first Goddess, life, spoke first. "Welcome, follower Alexander. No, you have not died, we have just called you here. The vellocet fruits produce a chemical that can allow us to contact certain people. This is not a dream."

Alex slowly rose, and looked at the Goddesses. He tried to, but the light from their faces blinded him. "How come I can't see you?"

"You may be here, Alexander, but it is too early. He have brought you here to show you your future. You walk the razor's edge, Alexander. The Laughing Demon has you in his trap, but it is your daughter he wants." Why does he want Jamie?

"He can sense the power in her. She will end up being more powerful than he in time, and he wished to use you to give her to him."

What can I do to stop this? "The only way out is to go forward. Rash actions will bring your downfall. Walk carefully."

What happens if I fail? "Your life will end. Jamie will become the pawn of the Laughing Demon, Celes will die, and your friends will be picked off in various acts of violence."

And if I win?

"Then you will be held in esteem in this palace. You will be our Avatar, servant on Earth."

I see. What must I do?

"Complete your training, then leave Axis Vector. The next part of your journey lies in the Mohaine, in a outpost you visited."

I remember there....Where I found the sixshot.

"Then you must go to the Sabil Mountains. Learn of the Laughing Demon's gaze, and the way will be clear."

If the 'Laughing Demon' is out for me and Jamie, why would I complete the training?

"Avatars know the white and the black to they can remain gray."

Oh.

"Your time here is up. We will send a sign to you, and you can visit us anytime. Farewell, follower Alexander. Be careful, for the Laughing Demon walks with your soul in grasp."

Farewell...

Alex awoke around 8:30 to feel his face being touched. He awoke, and Celes was standing over him. "Good morning, Alex."

"Morning." Alex sat up. The fire in the fireplace had gone out, but the room was still warm. A light snow was visible outside the window. Alex got up and went into his room. He changed, and walked back into the living room.

"I noticed your collection."

"You mean the records?"

"Yes. It's hard to believe Kefka's protŽgŽe would be well versed in music."

Alex smiled a bit. "I was taken to Jidoor at 12, and was blown away by the music and singing. And then, when I was 18, they had Maria. I fell in love with her voice, it stayed with me through all..."

Alex sat in the first row in the middle seat, gazing at Maria like she was one of the Goddesses. It was the first edition of "The East and West", and Maria was performing for the first time. He estimated she was as old as he was, and he listened to her beautiful voice. At the end, he stood and applauded loudly. Other people began to stand, and soon the whole audience gave a standing ovation as people threw roses onto the stage.

"Alex? Hey, Alex?"

"Huh?"

"You spaced out for a minute."

"Oh, sorry." He looked at his pocket watch. "I need to go. Will you be fine here?"

"Yes."

"I'll see you later then." He reached for Sanguinus. He left the apartment, and in the hall, saw the serrated edge of Sanguinus was replaced with a fine, silver blade, with a golden handle. The guard was shaped like falcon's wings, the hilt was long and golden, with a leather piece wrapped around it. There was an inscription on the guard: Sword of the Avatar. So he really did speak to the Goddesses! Then he realized Jamie was to be kept safe at all costs. He walked down the stairs into the lobby, where Seth and Lenny were waiting. Seth chuckled and walked up to Alex.

"Hey Alex. How was she?"

"Who?"

"The girl we saw in your room."

Alex paled. "That was Celes, and I'll thank you not to spy on her."

Lenny laughed. "Oh, we weren't spying at all! Just wondering where you'd been. And we got our answer." Seth laughed with Lenny

. Alex spoke up in Celes's defense. "I didn't do anything with her, guys. You can stop laughing now."

Seth sat down on the couch in the lobby. "You know we're just messing with you, Al. Lighten up a bit, eh?" "Yeah?"

"We're getting together tonight. Meet us at the Vector Tavern, okay?"

"Sure, Seth."

Seth spoke in a calm voice. "She really is good-looking, Alex."

"Thanks." Alex walked through the snow. Seth watched Alex leave. Lenny reminded him that John was meeting them at the tavern.

Kefka was a bit apprehensive today. One of his Protectorate Defenders was found dead in the Doma Fallout Area. Alex and Kefka sat in chair facing each other, and a girl with green hair walked into the room and placed two cups of Narshian Latte in front of them. She looked around 24. As she left, Alex asked Kefka who that was. "Oh, that was Terra." His eyes gleamed menacingly.

Celes said her friend's name was Terra... "Why is she here?"

Kefka sat back. "Just for the old bit of fun."

"Ah. I see." Alex knew what that meant, and he felt sick. He looked around the library for a moment. "So what's up for today?"

"Well, Alex, my boy, this will be the final step. If you succeed, all you see will be yours when I die. Fail, and you can keep Celes, but you must leave the city." Alex agreed. They shot the breeze for a while, enjoying each other's company, and then they walked down to the arena. Scorch and blood marks covered the hard sand of the arena. "One minute, my boy," Kefka said as he left Alex alone. He unsheathed the Sword of the Avatar. It felt light in his grasp, and seemed to glow brightly in the dim arena light. The grate opened, and Kefka walked out wielding a serrated ax and a sword stained blood-red. "I am your final challenge, Alex."

Kefka leaped forward, snarling a battle cry. Alex ducked under him and spun around in time to avoid a bolt of lightning. Alex rolled forward and caught Kefka from behind, slashing across his calf. Kefka roared and brutally swung at him, trying to back Alex into a corner. Alex deflected his attacks, and then did the only thing he could: he set part of Kefka's robe on fire. He put it out in seconds, but Alex was at the other end of the arena then. Alex chanted for a moment, and great shard of crystal flew at Kefka. Some struck him, and he fell to the ground. He prepared a large Bolt spell, but Alex hid under the Crystal Aura spell, and was safe. The battle raged for hours, Alex and Kefka countering each other, but it ended with Kefka falling to the ground. Alex had won. The training was complete.

Kefka had congratulated him, and made the announcement to the city. A parade was held, with a large celebration. Alex had walked back to his apartment afterwards. Celes was still there. He told Celes the events of the day, and Celes seemed happy, but sad. When Alex asked what was wrong, she asked him to do her a favor: get Terra out of Kefka's Tower. Alex agreed. He didn't really want to, but Celes's sad expression reminded him of Maria in her role in The East and West and in the great tragedy "The Life of Lord Vicconius." When he agreed, she leaped from the couch, hugged him, thanked him numerous times, and kissed him. Alex kissed her back, and then he had left to get Seth and the gang. Celes stayed behind, crying tears of joy.

"So you want us to risk our necks to get some girl we don't even know out of the Tower?" Seth shrugged. "Can't think of a good reason why not. Right, fellas?" Lenny and John nodded.

Alex spoke up. "Okay. I can get her out myself, but I need you three to get her in the hideout at Nikeah. Keep her there until I can come down there."

"Okay, then Alex. Bring her here and we'll do this one for you."

Getting into the Tower was easy, Kefka's receptionists and Chancellors all knew him. Using an Invis spell, he had crept into the hall leading to Kefka's chambers. He picked the lock, and entered into Hell. The library he knew had become a black pit. The shelves were there, but mixed with the books of magic were jars filled with various body parts, human, monster, and animal. A thousand dead eyes stared at him as he walked to a door at the end of the room. He opened it to a one room portrait gallery. He looked at one of Celes, and immediately left the room and threw up in a wastebasket. This wasn't the Kefka he knew and loved. He was like... a demon. The Laughing Demon. He looked back into the room and felt the sickness come back. He clamped his hands around his mouth, and walked to another door. It was a hall with a door at the end, and more of the terrible, terrible pictures on the walls. He kept his eyes on the floor, and quietly moved forward to the door. He listened at the door, and checked the keyhole. It was the same study he had been in earlier. He opened the door.

He stood there, looking around. It was much like it had been earlier, but he felt something spatter in his hair. He looked up. A corpse, secured by a chain, hung over him. A bloodstained maggot was crawling in his hair. He nearly lost it, but brushed it out and stomped on it. He sunk to the floor and drew his knees up to his chin, and prayed. Oh, Goddesses, deliver me from evil, let me find the girl and get out of here safe and sane...please...

Seth waited in the alley outside of the Tower in a cardboard box. The guards never bothered the poor, just threw spare change at him. Seth had just made 1000 Kefcoins for just sitting and waiting for Alex. And Tara, Tina, whatever her name is. He had a sword ready, Alex could brink trouble with him. He calmly took a brush and a jar from his pocket, and calmly painted some clear poison onto the blade.

20 minutes later Alex had the strength to move. He found another door. Alex wandered through the chambers of horror for an hour before finding Terra. She was in a small bedroom, through the keyhole he could see Kefka's. Alex cast a small spell, and could see her in night vision. A few bloody wounds had been bandaged recently. Although she was asleep, her eyes were fixed on the door, as if she expected Kefka to walk through it any minute. She was wearing a nightgown, and had hidden herself in the shadows of the room, as if Kefka wouldn't see her. He woke her up, and she began to scream. Alex placed a hand over her mouth and whispered. "I'm Alex. Celes sent me to get you out of here. You must stay calm and quiet. Wait here."

Terra nodded. He looked at the window. Terra looked at him, crying. Who was this man who had came here, saying he had come to save her? Was it another one of Kefka's tricks? She had had enough of this, she had planned on killing herself later tonight. But if this man was telling the truth. . . Could he really get her out of here?

A few minutes later, Alex came back with something large wrapped in a bag. He threw it through the window as he removed the bag. Alex looked back at Terra. He whispered again: "Okay. Climb onto my back, and hold on tight." Alex carefully punched a few loose glass shards from the frame, and jumped.

The 700 foot fall was softened by a float spell Alex cast. They landed safe and sound. Seth came out of the alley, and ran up to meet them. Seth took his cloak and wrapped it around the now unconscious Terra so she wouldn't freeze. Seth looked at the rotted corpse on the snow. "Good distraction."

"Thanks. Now get the others and run. We'll meet you tomorrow at 6 PM."

"Alright." Seth carried the unconscious form down the street. Alex hid in the shadows, and made his way home.

Alex made the 10 minute trip in 2 minutes. Celes asked him where Terra was. Alex told her about Seth, the arrangement, and everything else. Celes was very happy at this. She thanked Alex again, and went into Alex's room to sleep. Alex got back on the couch, and thanked the Goddesses. He still couldn't believe it was all a facade. Kefka had to be stopped. The desert lay ahead.

Celes was dreaming of her past. She hated this dream, wanted it to be stricken from her memory, but couldn't do so. She just endured it.

Celes was standing before Kefka in Axis Vector. She had spent the past 5 months in a jail cell, and now Kefka... He had rubbed it in on how she and her friends failed, that she, Terra, and Edgar were the only ones to live, and she would now watch Edgar's death. The screen showed Edgar's castle, trying to submerge. A thing hovered over it, and then, there was a flash. The sands of the Figaran desert turned to glass. Edgar's castle was ionized in a flash of a second. She felt sick and collapsed. Kefka then walked over to her and said she was his.

The next few months were hell. Forced to see the hanging corpses of her friends. Forced to endure the hideous portraits Kefka painted. Forced to do whatever he wanted or else die, which she desperately wanted to do, but didn't want to die by Kefka. She was preparing to hang herself in a few days.

Then Alex stepped into her life. She didn't know much on who he was, or much else, but he gave her a place to stay, food to eat, and swore to protect her. She found it hard to believe he would do all that for her due to his training by Kefka. Alex was the one good thing to happen to her since the failed attack on the first Tower of Kefka. He even risked his mind and life by rescuing Terra! Celes felt a deep appreciation for Alex. Someone was looking out for her, after all. She turned over in her sleep and smiled.

Celes awoke the next morning to an odd sight. She heard Jamie giggling from the next room and, after she dressed, went in. She saw about 50 matches dancing in the air in front of Jamie while a lively piano tune played on the phonograph. The matches floated over Jamie's head, and then lit themselves on the coffee table, and continued dancing until they burned away, and the ashes faded in the wind from an open window. Jamie laughed more, and Alex laughed with her. They hadn't noticed Celes until she walked up to Alex and tapped him on the shoulder. "Oh, hi Celes."

"What was that you just did?"

"That's the Match Dance. It's the first thing I learned to do with my mind. Entertains children, especially Jamie. How are you?"

"I'm fine. Just a bit surprised, that all." "The Desert? Why?"

"I know a place where Kefka can't track us. He'll know I took Terra from him."

"Oh. Where is this place"

"A few hours near the Sabil Mountains. It's an abandoned war outpost where I found this." Alex lifted the sixshot. "It's the only thing that can kill the sand muties. A sword just injures them ,the wound reappears. This weapon's attack embeds itself in the mutant, and keeps the wound fresh so it dies."

"Ah."

"By now, Seth and the others should be in Nikeah. We're meeting them at 6, so we have a lot of time to kill."

"Right. Alex?"

"Yes?"

"How come you're taking care of me?"

"Well, it's the right thing to do. I mean, you were left here, and then you... broke down. I didn't know what to do, I couldn't let you leave, I couldn't do much of anything but give you food and a place to stay."

"Yeah, but.. I sense there's something else as well."

"There is. Here, I'll tell you a short story. There once was a guy named Alex. Alex was relatively normal, and lived peacefully in Maranda. Alex had a girlfriend named Juliet. Alex and Juliet lived happily until one day when Juliet left Alex. She said that Alex wasn't the nice guy Juliet thought he was after all. Alex took this as a message on his character, and left Maranda. He wandered the land. He walked alone, and strengthened himself. Alex became a hunter, a wandering savior to the towns he visited. He still hated himself over Juliet's words, and stayed as far away from most people as possible. Then one day, Alex found a woman dying near a river. Alex went over to help her, and he saw she had a baby with her. The woman had the Decay, and she was about to snuff it. The woman gave the baby to Alex, and then passed away. Alex saw this as a chance for redemption, and cared for the baby ever since."

"I see." Alex looked around uncomfortably. The memory of Juliet brought him close to tears. Celes saw this, and backed off. Alex sat back, wiped his eyes, and looked out the window. Alex looked up. "You want some breakfast?"

"What is it?"

"Eggs and bacon. The only thing I can cook that doesn't come from a can."

"Okay." Alex got up, and moved into the kitchen. Celes though on Alex's story. I hope he's okay. I didn't know Alex would say something like that, I know what that feels like.

"Celes?"

"Yes?"

"Here's your food." Alex and Celes ate breakfast, and had the usual morning chatter: weather, news, and so forth. Alex ate quickly, while reading a newspaper. Celes ate slowly, watching the world from the window. It was if they were married.

Alex sat on the couch. It was about noon now, at 3 they would pack and leave. Celes was in the other room, reading a novel. I wonder if she can tell I love her? It's sort of obvious, but not blatantly obvious. Alex read a newspaper, an article on the Neo Imperium. I wish I could get my courage up. I can't believe it, I hunt Carnifexes, I fight the death mutants, but my courage goes away like shaved ice in a blast furnace. Alex stood up and walked to the window. Below him, people walked by, soldiers checked the people, chocobos ran through the snow. Alex walked into the kitchen, and got some coffee. Alex drank it, feeling the liquid fall into his stomach. He got his chocobo saddlebags from the closet. Alex traveled light, part of the job. All he had fit into 3 saddlebags and his satchel. 2 for clothes and stuff, one for his records and phonograph, and his satchel for food and supplies. Alex rocked back in his chair. He needed to get out for a while. He wrote Celes a note, got his hat and cloak, and left.

Alex walked 2 blocks through the snow until he arrived at the Music Store. They had a large collection of works from the Jidoorian Opera house, like Maria's best operas, "The East and West (Every script rewrite)", "Lisenne", and "The Life of Lord Vicconius." The also had other groups there, but Alex saw Maria's work only. He ended up buying a copy of The 6th rewrite of East and West, where Draco dies in the duel against Ralse, and Maria snuffs herself while singing "Maybe It's Better Like This" in a way that chilled Alex's spine. He also purchased the 1st edition of "Lisenne". There were two so far, the story of a female wanderer who crossed the mountains to the heavens in Figaran mythology. He walked back to his apartment, and unlocked the door.

Celes was there, and she was mildly panicking. She hadn't seen the note. When Alex entered, she wrapped her arms around him and softly cried. "Alex! Alex, where were you, I was so worried I thought you left me alone..."

"It's all right Celes, I just went to the Music Store. I left a note in the kitchen."

"You should have came in and talked Alex..."

"I'm sorry, Celes. I'm sorry..."

"Alex..."

Celes released her grip on him. Alex then sat her down on the couch. "Celes, I need to tell you something. I don't know what you'll think of it, but I'll say it anyway."

"Alex, what is it?"

"Celes... I.. love you."

Alex said it! He finally said it! "I love you too, Alex."

Alex grinned, and began to happily laugh. Celes did the same, and soon the room was filled with laughter. I actually said it! Alex grinned wider. "How do you feel, Celes?"

"Perfect!"

Alex checked his watch, 1:30 PM. "We'd better start to pack. The transport will leave soon."

"Sure, Alex. I'll get my stuff."

Alex's stuff filled the usual spaces. Celes didn't have much, it filled the one extra saddlebag. They took Jamie, closed the door, and left the apartment.

Seth was in the hideout with Terra, Lenny was waiting for Alex. Seth sat on a chair, looking at Terra in the other. She had her knees drawn up to her chin, and was still wrapped up in Seth's cloak. She hadn't moved much, Seth had to feed her some food himself. Luckily, she hadn't needed to use the bathroom, Seth had absolutely no idea on what to do if that happened. Seth sat down in front of her and tried again. "Hello." Terra looked at him. "My name is Seth Kinyen." Terra focused on him. "Can you say Seth?" Terra mouthed the words, but no sound came forth. "Can you say Terra?" Terra mouthed the words again.

Seth began to lose it. "I can't believe Alex did this to me! Called down the Wrath of the Goddesses by taking her from Kefka, and she can't speak a word! Dammit, Alex!"

Terra sat at attention. "Alex?"

Seth looked at Terra. "Hello?"

Terra looked at Seth. "Seth Kinyen."

"Right, right! How are you?"

Terra looked up. The glazed look left her eyes. She looked around the room. "Oh, Goddesses! Alex! Where's Alex! For their sake, tell me where Alex is!!"

Seth's bladder was very full. He now had a desperate woman on his hands. "Alex will be here soon. I'm Alex's friend, Seth, remember?"

"Seth, where's Alex? I need to see Alex.." Terra began to curl up again, and cried, mumbling the name Alex every few seconds. Seth walked to her, and tried to comfort her. He wrapped an arm around her, and pulled her close, trying to think of what to do.

Alex and Celes were on the transport to Nikeah. Alex felt on top of the world after telling Celes he loved her, and hearing Celes echo his words. He had a cool exterior, but inside, everything was pure happiness that left a rolling feeling in his stomach. He looked and smiled at Celes in the next seat, and she smiled back. Alex was sure Celes felt the same. The flight was uneventful, and at 5:30, they were in Nikeah. Alex lead Celes through the twists and turns of the abandoned warehouses, and they met Seth and Lenny.

Seth had his arm around Terra, and looked up at Alex. "Alex, this woman has been babbling your name for the past 3 hours! What happened to her?"

Celes ran over to Terra. Alex walked over to Terra, who sprang up and threw herself at Alex, knocking him to the floor. She sobbed onto his chest, saying his name again and again. Seth helped them both up. Alex began to talk to Terra. "It's fine, Terra. Kefka's gone, and I'm here. Stop crying, Terra." Terra stopped a bit, and released Alex. Terra stopped, and just stood, following Alex around a bit.

They were on the road now, Alex having got Cort and several other Chocobos. John had stayed behind to distract anyone looking for them by saying they went to the Doma Fallout Area, in a town called Suedeten. It was getting dark now, and they were twenty miles from the Mohaine Desert. They decided to stop at a small town, Hax, and sleep at the Inn for the night. Alex was in his room, reading, and wondering about Terra. Kefka really messed with her, she's still in shock. I'm going to need to use the regression technique on her. I hate doing this, especially on women. Living their memories, good and bad... I never did get used to it.

There was a light knock on the door. Alex opened it, and Celes stood there with a robe covering her nightgown. "Hi, Celes."

"Hi Alex. Could I come in?"

"Alright." Celes walked in and sat in a chair. "Alex, now that we know our feelings for each other, what happens from there?"

Alex sat down. "I don't really know. Juliet.. was.. the last woman I'd been in love with, and that was 6 years ago."

"Oh. The last man I was with was Locke. He was a treasure hunter, the best, he said. Kefka...dealt with him first so no one could..." Celes began to cry softly. "Oh, Locke.."

Alex moved his chair closer to hers. He began to talk in a lower voice. "What was Locke like?"

"He.... was... well... adventurous. He'd do anything for fame or money. He was reckless, and brave. Kind of like... you, Alex..." Alex moved closer to Celes. "I wish I could tell you more, Alex, but... we didn't have much time. All he did was give me a rose and his bandanna before Kefka..." She began to cry more.

Alex moved his chair next to hers, and wrapped his arm around her. Her crying lessened, and she turned to face him. Alex kissed her, and she kissed him back. They did this for several minutes, before they stood up. Alex continued to kiss her, and began removing her robe and nightgown. Alex moved over to his bed, and Celes followed.

Alex woke the next morning, and found Celes next to him. She was still asleep and tossed and turned a bit. Alex stroked her hair for a few minutes, and sat on the edge of the bed. Alex wrapped his robe about him, and walked to the bathroom, where he began to brush his teeth. The sound of the running water awoke Celes, who yawned and stretched. She picked up her robe, and wore that as well. She walked into the bathroom as Alex spit out the paste and washed his mouth clear. Celes tapped his shoulder from behind, and when he turned around she kissed him. This is perhaps the greatest day of my life.

They met in the restaurant of the inn an hour later, Seth eating his breakfast while Lenny helped Terra eat. She was a bit weak, and had trouble holding her fork. Alex and Celes walked in together, and Seth exchanged a quick glance with Lenny, who smiled. "Morning, Alex, morning, Celes. Fine day, isn't it?"

"Yes, it is. Anyway, the plan for today is to reach the Mohaine. From the edge of the desert, it's a 3 day ride to the outpost. We'll have to make as much time as possible. In the Mohaine, swords won't harm the sand mutants. I have a weapon called a sixshot that can finish them, so, stay behind, and I'll finish them off."

"Right, Alex."

Alex turned to Seth while Celes ordered breakfast for her and him. Seth knew what Alex would ask, so he came right out and said it. "How's Terra today?"

Seth smiled. "She can speak clearer, but she's still in shock. She can't hold anything heavier than a knife, and sometimes spasms a bit."

"Oh." The waitress placed breakfast in front of him. Alex cut a bit of sausage and wrapped it in piece of pancake before eating it. A clinking sound was heard as Terra dropped her fork for the 5th time that morning.

They had reached the Mohaine Desert at around 11:30. The grass gave way to white sands and broken glass formed by the purifying nuclear blaze as its vengeance was wrought on the sands. Chocobo claws made crackling sounds at the glass broke underneath. They were in a ragged V-formation, Alex leading the way, with Jamie behind him and the sixshot at the ready. The chocobos were fast, and they were crossing the desert at a speed of 40 MPH, above average speed for a chocobo in this environment. Most chocobos would give out, but Alex had purchased Nikeah-West Chocobos, bred specifically for harsh environments. Cort wasn't a Nikeah-West, he was a Marandian Chocobo, but after 6 years of travel with Alex, he was adaptable for every clime. They spent the day traveling, with the occasional attack by a sand mutie, which Alex dispatched with the sixshot.

Sand muties were terrible things, the corpses of dead travelers, plagued with many diseases that caused them pain but kept them alive. They spent the night beside a campfire, with Alex on second watch. They set out again early and Alex found it would only take a day's journey to reach the outpost, a day less than he had factored for. They made the journey there safe. The Figaran Outpost lay undisturbed. Alex pushed open the doors, and they wandered around a bit as Alex showed them around. In one room, though, they found something entirely different.

A man, about 55, was asleep in a room filled with paper of which various calculations were scribbled. Alex woke the man, who reached for a dagger. Alex kicked it away, and the man became more talkative. Garret Underwood, he said he was, a Figaran Lieutenant, a survivor of the Eye of Kefka. He did not have the Decay, he was sane, and he had been here 3 years, studying the operations of the Eye of Kefka. Garret lead them to the officer's rooms, each small with a bed, a nightstand, and 2 chairs, but private and separate. They unpacked, and Garret said they were the only company he had for 3 years, aside from his cat, Jones. They talked a bit on how Garret came, what he learned, and how he lived for so long in the desert. It was then dusk, and the travelers went to their rooms. Alex fell asleep nearly immediately.

"Welcome again, follower Alexander. We have called you here on completion of your first objective."

What must I do here?

"Listen to follower Garret. He is many years wise, and knows the Eye of Kefka well. After learning from him, go to the Sabil Mountains, and the next objective will wait there for you."

What lies in the Sabil Mountains?

"Death and salvation."

Whose death?

"These waters are deep, and the mirror cannot reveal their depths."

I see.

"So you do."

What lies after the Sabil Mountains?

"Find the next objective."

Alright then. Thank you for your time.

"Farewell follower Alexander. We will be watching and guiding."

Alex awoke as the light from his window flooded the room. Alex woke and dressed, and talked to Garret. "Hello Garret."

Garret looked up from a book he was reading. "Hello, Alex."

"Garret, what are all these writings?"

"Three years of research into the Eye of Kefka, since the Light of Judgment was created, and since Kefka made it into the nuclear laser it is now."

"How was this done?"

"Kefka's researchers discovered the inherent power of the atom. They learned to split it, release the energy, and added it to the Light. It made an effective weapon, as this desert shows, but it poisons the land. It'll be thousands of years before it's all clean."

"Oh. What damage does it do?"

"It infests the land. Causes defects. Kills species. The Figaran jackrabbit used to be proliferous here, but ever since the Eye gazed here, it's been a Desert Weasel in every pot and a wolf in every womb. The last of them died a few months back."

"What else can you tell me?" Garret smiled, and pulled a few thousand pages thick volume from a shelf.

Seth sat in the room with Terra. Terra had just awoken. and changed. Seth, being helpful as always, came to check on her. Terra's speech was back to normal. She had a clear voice, with a slight accent Seth didn't know. "Morning Seth."

"Morning, Terra. How are you feeling today?"

"A little stiff. My joints hurt and it feels as if my bones were made of cement."

"That'll go away in a while, I suppose." Seth placed a plate of food in front of her, and handed her some utensils wrapped in a napkin. Terra took this, and placed it in front of her. Terra opened the napkin, took a knife out, and with a steady hand, cut a piece of scrambled eggs. Seth smiled, she could move.

Lenny was in the armory of the Outpost. Much of the wooden weapons cracked in the desert heat, but a few metal ones were spared. Lenny found another sixshot, and took it. He also found 500 rounds. He wanted to use a few for practice, but the Goddesses frown on wastrels. He had placed the ammo and weapon in his satchel, and looked out the window. The Sabil Mountains loomed over the white blur, beckoning to him. That's up next. Lenny thought. Good thing I packed my hiking boots.

Celes woke late. She hadn't meant to, she was just extremely tired from the hard travel. She stood, stretched, and dressed before wandering around the base. Alex was busy in discussion with Garret. Lenny was checking the status of several weapons. Seth and Terra were talking about the weather, while Terra used her hands as normal, without shaking or cramping. The small miracles of the world were here. She walked to a window at the end of the dormitory hall, and stared outside.

Kefka was in the top of the Tower. The top of the Tower was his special place, a chapel devoted to the pagan goddess Asteroth. He knelt before the black altar, with the drugged pig on it, waved a sacrificial sword in the air, and began the ritual chant.

"Mystere, fara Asteroth! Manitas, morte-ra! Hale hala, Asteroth! Hass! Hass!
Asteroth, thy followers summon thee hence to accept the sacrifice at the Altar of the Grave, where the blood of 10,000 was spilt!
Death and destruction pave thy path, all men fall to thy unholy wrath!
We have gathered in thy church, and thus we beseech thee to arrive and claim this animal's blood as thy food and drink!
Mystere, fara Asteroth! Manitas, morte-ra! Hale hala, Asteroth! Hass! Hass!"

Kefka raised the knife above the pig, and brought it down. A rain of blood followed, and Kefka collected it in a bowl, and placed it on the altar. The pig's meat was cut, and a large portion was left soaking in the blood. Kefka then left the chapel. A sacrifice was always a sign of luck, especially in a hunt. And Kefka would be in one soon. Alex had taken Terra, he knew that. He laughing wondered if he had enjoyed wandering in the dark among the living portraits. He had designed them specifically for his enjoyment and the torture of others: They would move, forever reenacting the events on the canvas, forever. He had done that in a jovial mood. Kefka walked out the chapel lobby, and down a flight of stairs. He'd have fun doing this. He knew of Alex's daughter Jamie, she was integral to him. All his sacrifices and preparation wouldn't come to naught, he would purify the earth in nuclear fire and, after sacrificing Jamie, he would reign with Asteroth in the floating palace of the gods and fanatics.

Garret could talk up a storm when he wanted to. He had talked for 7 hours on the function of the Eye of Kefka and the problems it caused, and Alex listened raptly to the words that flowed from the old researcher's tongue. "...and thus, the spent uranium is ejected into the ruins, which causes further damage as it decays. The uranium decay causes decay in all organic life, and they end up dying as well. But one thing I noticed is that some of the effects are magical, that change things over time. I'm not sure what all it means, though."

"Thanks, Garret."

"Think nothing of it, Alex boy. I'm glad just glad to have someone to pass this on to."

"Garret, when we leave here, do you want to come with us? You seem to be very knowledgeable, you'd certainly help."

"Alex, I'm 55 years old. I haven't used a sword in ages. Of course I'd go!"

Alex left Garret's study an hour later. He found Celes in Terra's room, talking with her about Alex. Alex hid in the shadows outside the room and listened in. "Alex is a pretty nice guy, you know? He appreciates opera, he has a daughter and cares for her like his own, he also has reverence and remorse. I half expected anyone trained by Kefka to be the spawn of Hell."

"I never really thought much on it. Couldn't anyhow, that damned slave crown..."

"Yeah, I saw one of those once on you. At one of the rallies the Emperor held."

"Right, I do remember that." "I'd better go right now, I need to talk to Alex. See you later, Terra."

"Goodbye, Celes."

Alex cast a quick spell and faded into the wall. A minute later he reappeared, and followed Celes, who entered his room. "Hey Celes."

"Oh, Alex! I was looking for you!"

"What is it?"

"It's Terra. She can move now, and the spasms are gone."

"Good! I figured it was temporary."

"Seth is rather pleased, too. Last I saw him, he was at the armory with Lenny." Celes moved further into the room and sat into a chair. Alex sat down on the edge of his bed. "So, what's up?"

"Where are we going from here, Alex?" "Sabil Mountain range."

"Why there?"

"Kefka'll find out we're here soon. If we head into the mountains, we can most likely find a cave, or a town where we could stay temporarily."

"Oh." Alex looked out the window, it was kind of dark. "Why don't we go get some dinner?"

"Okay."

Terra was eating perfectly now, without the trouble she had when they were at the Inn. Dinner was some beef with gravy, fresh from a can. It was pretty good though, and it was filling. Alex took a bite and began speaking to Seth. "So, Seth, did you check the armory?"

"Lenny did that first. He found another sixshot, 500 ammo rounds, and a few broken wood weapons."

"Uh-huh. Does the sixshot work?"

"Yeah."

"Good."

Alex ate a bit more. "So, Terra, how's it like to be away from Kefka's Tower?" Terra froze. She didn't move, just sat still and stared ahead. She placed her fork down on her plate and drew her knees up to her chin. "Damn! It's a relapse, or something."

Garret came over. "It seems you brought up some thing rather unpleasant, Alex. She could be this way for a while."

Alex looked down. He never meant for this to happen. "Take her back to her room, Seth. I think I can fix this."

Seth had gotten Terra to walk, and lead her down the dusty halls to her room in the dormitory area. She stared at the floor, and didn't speak. "I'm sorry, Terra. Alex never meant for that to happen." Even Alex's name didn't restore Terra as it did before. Seth opened the door for her, and he placed her on her bed. Alex came in a minute later. He looked at Seth, and drew a chair next to Terra. He took hold of her hand, stared at her face, and concentrated. He had begun the regression therapy.

The memories were terrible and Alex was forced to live them out in his mind. Terra was captured after the battle at the Tower, kept in a prison cell for 7 months where she was beaten once every day by Kefka, and was forced to live on water and a thin rice stew. She was made to see the torture of Cyan, a horrible ghastly event, and then Kefka had begun to rape her. During these memories Alex began to feel very sick, but managed to barely endure. He was able to skip by a few, and that kept the bile down. This was continued for months, and there was a memory of Terra's attempted suicide by poisoning, but Kefka had gotten to her in time to keep her alive. Then he came across the memory of Terra bringing the Narshian Latte. The thought in Terra's mind were "Who is that?" and "Am I going to be given to him like Celes was?" Then there was the memory of her rescue, and Seth trying to get her to speak. He noticed an attraction between her and Seth. Her mind was entirely jumbled, the timeline of events broken. Alex was able to fix this, and he left Terra's mind.

Alex broke out of the paralysis and saw Terra was awake.

"Alex?"

"Yes?"

"What happened?"

"I mentioned Kefka's Tower, and then you froze. I had to get inside your mind, and fix your memories."

"How?"

"Kefka messed up your head, and I had to place it back together. I have a psychic power, you see, which can let me enter minds, and live out memories while fixing them. The only problems are the migraines."

"I feel fine."

"But I don't."

"Oh. Well, thanks, Alex. Celes was right about you." Alex stood up and left Terra. He went back to his room and fell on the bed. He took off his clothes, placed them on a chair, and slept.

Celes laid on her bed, wondering about Terra. She had decided to leave her alone for now, but wondered about how Alex had helped her. Terra will be fine, Alex probably used magic or something on her. But still, it's odd. Just a mention of the Tower, and she snapped again. Celes turned on her side. I wonder how Alex is right now? I saw him as he passed by, he was clutching his head a bit... Celes got up and went to Alex's room. The door was a bit ajar, and the lights were out. Alex was fast asleep, and next to the bed on a nightstand was a bottle of aspirin. Must have a headache, then. He'll get over it, I know he will. Celes closed the door to Alex's room and went back to hers. She laid back on her bed, and turned off the light. The night went away and day followed. Alex woke up last, his migraine gone. They were in the mess hall, eating some eggs. Celes was talking with Terra. Lenny was looking at a schematic with Garret. Terra had already ate, she was now feeding some baby food to Jamie. Seth ate while reading a book, a fiction story. Alex took a seat next to Celes, who turned and smiled at him.

"Good morning, Alex. How's your head?"

"It's fine, Celes. Good morning, everyone." The rest welcomed Alex, and Garret got him a plate of scrambled eggs. They then proceeded to talk of their plans: tomorrow they would go to a town on the edge of the Mohaine, and at the foothills of the Sabil Mountains known as Branstown. From there, they would head to the summit of Mt. Koltz, and think of a plan from there. This was agreed on, and everyone left to do their own thing.

Their day was long, with preparations made towards the travel. The Chocobos were taken care of, Alex talked with Garret more, Seth spent his time with Terra, Celes made sure they had all their supplies, and Lenny oiled and loaded his sixshot.

Alex was in his room. His stuff was in his saddlebags and satchel, and only his clothes, sword and sixshot lay unpacked. Well, tomorrow's the day. I learned all I could from Garret, so, now the Sabils are ahead. Shouldn't be too hard, I've been there before. Alex heard a knock on the door. "'S open!" Celes opened the door and came in. "Hi, Celes, here have a seat." Alex pushed a chair over to her. She took it and sat down. "Sure, Celes. What is it?"

"I just want to know if you really do love me."

"Of course I do, Celes! I meant what I said, like when I said I'd protect you!."

Locke said the same thing... "Locke said the same thing, too."

"Did he try his best?"

"Up until his torture."

"What did he do?"

"He... he... betrayed me to Kefka." Celes' head fell.

"How did he do that?"

The memory came back to Celes, and she told Alex.* * *

Kefka was wearing his usual robes. He was in a dungeon, and Locke's arms and legs were tied to a chair. Locke was wearing the torn and bloody scraps of a prison outfit. Kefka looked at a bruiser guarding Locke. "Hold his head still." Kefka went back to bending some wire into shape. Locke saw what he intended to do, and struggled. Kefka called out to a servant. "Bring her in!" The cell door opened and Celes was thrown in. A bruiser grabbed her arms, and held her from behind. Kefka took one of the wires, and slowly, deliberately walked to Locke, who then began screaming at the top of his voice. "Not me! No, no! Do it to anyone! Do it to Celes! DO IT TO HER! NOT ME, HER!" But Kefka was upon him. Locke tried to shut his eyes, but the wire poked effortlessly through his eyelid. A white fluid poured out, and Kefka got another wire. Celes had collapsed at Locke's words, and was crying loudly.

"He didn't really mean it, Celes. Anyone would say anything to avoid torture like that."

"I know, but it still hurt, more than what Kefka did to me." He really does love me. He must, to put up with this. Still, the pain...

Alex stood up. "Here, you can use my bed. Just lie down and get some sleep." Alex lifted her up and laid her out on his bed. Alex sat on the edge of the bed, and looked at Celes. No wonder she broke down like that at my apartment, she can't be left alone for too long before she loses it. Alex took the sheets and laid them on her. Celes was awake, but was quiet, and moved a bit. "Here, get some rest, I'll just sleep in this chair." Alex begun to stand, when Celes sat up and kissed him. They kissed for a while longer before Alex got under the sheets with her.

Celes woke first, dressed, and left the sleeping Alex to get breakfast. She was the first, and cooked some pancakes on the oven before taking them to a table. I knew Alex loved me, why did I need to go in and ask again? He loves me, he said so and proved it, I shouldn't need to ask him as a reassurance. She poked at the pancakes. Alex walked into the mess hall and sat next to her.

"Hello, Celes."

Celes looked up and smiled at him. "Hey Alex. Good morning."

Alex nodded. "How are you, Celes?"

"Better."

"That's good." It'll be a while before the emotional scars heal, but she'll do fine. I know that.

They set out at noon, with Alex in the lead and Lenny bringing up the rear. No muties attacked though, and they made it to Branstown at 4 PM. They stopped to buy supplies, and continued into the Sabil Mountains. They left the chocobos in Branstown and hiked up the mountains. On the 6th day they reached the summit of Mt. Koltz, and found an awe inspiring sight: there was a large temple carved into the side of the mountain. They set up camp outside it, and slept there for the night. Celes, Alex, and Garret went into the temple. They found a large worship area, an altar, and a massive library of occult texts. Garret began leafing through several while Celes helped him. Alex wandered around a bit, through the priest's chambers until he found a room with a deep pool of clean sparkling water in it. He touched the water, it felt cold. He plunged his hand in, and the water surged up and envelloped him.

He was floating in a black space, but it grew lighter. Alex looked around to see a forest with several ruins among the trees. He stepped forward and a light appeared in front of him that changed into a young red-haired woman in a white robe. "Ah, hello..."

"I am Julia, Archangel of the Future and Oracle to the followers of the Goddesses. I have not seen a mortal one here in years. I especially haven't seen a future Avatar." The woman stepped forward to Alex. "You have come here for your future, have you not?"

"No, I..."

"But you have! Jamie and Celes, you future, are with you."

"They are..."

"Follow me, Alexander." They walked through the woods and ruins to a temple, where they sat down at a stone table facing each other. "The Goddess of Prophecy has commanded me to reveal the events of your future. Listen carefully, Alexander. The Laughing Demon knows where you are, but fear not for you will win out over him."

"How?"

"That is up to you, I am only here to warn you." Alex shifted in his seat a bit. "I bear other news. The one you love is pregnant. She knows it not yet, but she carries your child." Alex's eyes expanded and he began to yell happily, but Julia silenced him and continued. "Your foster daughter is the key to the Laughing Demon's plan. If she falls to him, this planet will become the spawning grounds of evil under Asteroth."

"Asteroth?"

"The black lady of Hell. The Laughing Demon is her high priest and Avatar. You will be the Avatar for the Goddesses, and will thus need to defend our pure lands from the deadly evil."

"I understand. What of my friends?"

"Seth will fall in love with green-haired one, Terra. Garret will be the founder of a new nation to the South. Lenny will become one of his officials. But, that is all I can tell you now. The important thing is to keep Celes and Jamie safe. To truly be potent against Kefka, you must be initiated into the rank of Avatar. Once again, follow me." Julia led Alex further into a temple. A bright talisman and some armor was on a armorcrafter's mannequin. "Take these, follower Alexander." Alex did. There was a bright golden light, and then all was restored. "My job is complete, Alexander. Remember my words."* * *

Alex woke by the pool with his arm submerged. He stood and felt something heavy click against his chainmesh. It was the talisman. He truly was an Avatar. He got up, and dried his arm.

Garret had read some of these books before, but in one he found something that pertained directly to his research. The book was on Asteroth, a god he had heard of a while back. Mostly rites and rituals, one that involved a baby girl.... "Celes?"

"Yes?"

"That girl is Alex's, right?"

"Yeah, why?"

"Look at this." Celes read the book and paled. She was about to run off for Alex when he walked into the library. "Alex! Read this!" Celes thrust the book in Alex's face.

"I know, Celes. It's why Kefka is after me."

Celes handed the book back to Garret. "I found something in the back."

"What is it?"

"An oracle." Garret looked in the back room. "There's just some water here."

"That's what it was." Garret tapped the water with his foot. The water rippled a bit, but it didn't envelop him. "You sure, Alex?"

"Yes. Kefka will be here eventually."

Alex left the temple. Lenny was eating some can food, Seth was talking to Terra, Jamie still asleep. Alex told them all that Kefka would be here in less than an hour. They gathered their things hastily and left, heading down the path they originally took.

Kefka was called into the control room on the Tower. He was still trying to think of something to paint, and being called away angered him. "This better be good."

"It is sir Kefka. We've got them on scanners." The technician tapped a monitor. "7 people in the Sabil Range."

Kefka thought a minute. "Have the Eye destroy a section close to them. Enough range to feel the blast, but not kill them or give them the Decay."

"Yes sir."

"Good job. I'll see to it you get a bonus on your next check."

"Thank you sir."

Kefka smiled and walked back to his chambers. He sat in front of the canvas, and imagined what he'd do to Alex and Celes. A bit of fun with Celes while he made Alex watch, perhaps. Yes, that was it. Then Celes would watch as he killed Alex, and then her. Yeah! He took a brush and began to paint.

They were halfway down the path when it happened. The unmistakable shape of the Eye of Kefka appeared. Alex shouted for everyone to take cover, and the world turned white. The light seared Alex's eyes and he felt like he would burn up. The heat was followed by pain, and it grew immense, and then suddenly, the blast ended. The light faded. The pain and heat ended. Alex fell into unconsciousness. Before he completely went unconscious, he saw Celes running towards him, shouting his name. He also saw the newly formed crater that used to be several smaller mountains.

He came to a while later. He was in a hotel room, he could see Celes next to him holding his hand. He sat up a bit, and looked at Celes. "Hey, Celes."

"Oh, Alex, we all thought you were dead!"

"Where am I?"

"Branstown Inn. We got you back here on a makeshift stretcher. Alex, I though you died, thought you left me alone.." Celes began to break down a bit.

"It's okay, Celes, it's okay..." Alex sat up a bit more. Celes calmed down a bit. "Where are the others? Where's Jamie?"

"The others are in some tavern. Jamie's in my room. I stayed here all the time..."

Alex sat on the edge of the bed now. He was going to stand, but doubled over and coughed. It lasted a minute, and he moved next to Celes. "Thanks, Celes. You want to get some food?" Celes nodded. Alex helped her up, and they left to find a restaurant. They found on down Main street, a nice place where they got some food. Alex had some fried chicken, Celes had the same thing. They talked for a while to pass the time. The oracle was right about Kefka, was she right about Celes being pregnant? "Celes, how have you been feeling lately?"

"I've felt pretty sick! I thought you were dead, I thought we had the Decay, I though Jamie would have the Decay!"

"Did you get that checked?"

"Yes. We were just outside the radius for that."

"Good." Alex cut a piece of chicken and consumed it. "How are you feeling today?"

"Fine, now, since you're awake." Alex ate some more chicken, Celes finished her glass of wine. They shot the breeze for a while, before they finished eating Alex paid the bill and went to his room. He laid on his bed, and slept.

"You objectives are completed, Avatar Alexander. But there is one last service, a task we have set for you."

What is it?

"As Julia has told you, the Laughing Demon is the Avatar of our enemy. We need you to place him in check. You must disable the Eye of Kefka and cleanse his chapel in the Tower. All traces of it must be removed so it will take years to rebuild and consecrate in evil, and thus we can prevent Asteroth coming to this world, and stop the nuclear fire."

"Follower Garret knows the ways to disable the Eye. Distract Kefka long enough and prevent him from reaching Jamie as well so that Garret can destroy the Eye."

I'm really an Avatar, correct?

"Yes."

So what happens? I have a sword, a talisman, new armor, what does it all do?

"Your skills will be revealed in time. Right now you can sense evil, and can annihilate the undead with a prayer. You can also use your weapon to the full extent it was designed for."

Thanks.

"You are welcome, Avatar Alexander. Farewell, for now."

Farewell.

While Alex slept, he dreamed of Celes. It wasn't some degrading one, just a jumble of thoughts he was trying to piece together. He wondered if Celes absolutely was pregnant, like the oracle said. It could be made up, to keep Alex going, but it was true, why would an oracle lie? There was no doubt in his mind it happened, he did. That was definitely it, he had expected something like that to happen, but not so suddenly. He'd have two children soon, Jamie and Celes's child. It would be great, to be with Celes. He can buy a house in Maranda, marry her properly, and live there. He could still keep his job, there were a lot of towns near Maranda. Mobliz wasn't that far off, neither was Jidoor with lovely Maria. Celes really did look like Maria, maybe the Imperial geneticists made her that way. He had noticed she was built differently than other Lot-21 and Lot-24 members he'd seen. It wouldn't be too hard to do. But business would come first. They would have to get to Nikeah, sneak on the transport, and Alex would then need to fight Kefka while Seth and Garret wreck the Eye. Then Alex would need to burn the chapel at the Tower. Shouldn't be too hard. But the hardest thing to do would be deciding to tell Celes what the oracle said, or let her find out on her own.

Celes sat next to Alex's bed and watched him sleep. In the days coming, he would need all the rest he could get.

Alex awoke the next morning. He changed, got a cigarette, and lit it. He checked his stuff and knocked on the door to Celes's room. No answer, probably still asleep. He went downstairs. Seth was in the lobby reading a magazine. "Hey Alex. How long have you been up?"

"Since yesterday evening."

"Good."

"How's Terra? She's been pretty quiet recently, but she should be better now that you're up and running."

Alex left Seth, and walked into the chocobo stable. It was the middle of December, but there isn't any snow here. Must be the desert. Alex absently thought. Alex saw that Cort was okay, and he paid the feeding bills for him. They'd be leaving later today. Alex then went back to the hotel and bought breakfast. Celes was up, and joined him later. They ate breakfast together, talking about the usual things, their feelings, their health, and suchforth.

Celes thought it odd that Alex asked her about her health, he told her yesterday she was fine. Guess he's just worried for me. I did take it hard when the blast happened. They then got the others together.

"Okay, here's the plan. Lenny and John'll stay behind with Celes, Jamie, and Terra. Garret, Seth, and I will go to the Tower. I'll do what needs to be done while Seth and Garret destroy the Eye of Kefka." Alex looked around the people. "Agreed?" Everyone said yes or nodded affirmatively. "Then we leave at 5 PM."

Alex was loading his and Celes's stuff on the chocobo. Seth came in a few minutes later, and loaded his things as well. They didn't speak, and they left a few minutes later. Alex found his thought constantly drifting to last night's dream. His stuff was loaded, and he gathered the others again. They set out later, and arrived in Nikeah after 5 days of wandering. Alex met up with John, and Lenny took Celes, Terra, and Jamie to the hideout in the abandoned warehouses. Celes didn't stay there for the night, she checked into the hotel Alex stayed in. The next day, Seth, Garret, and Alex snuck onto the Axis Vector transport. No turning back now. Alex shivered a bit, and then calmed himself down a bit. They hid in the cargo section, and managed to steal a few bits of food from the crates for lunch. On the way there, Alex fell asleep reminiscing about the night before he left.

Alex was doing the final checks to his armor and shield, and sharpened his sword and a straight razor he kept in his right boot. The armor and weapons were perfect, he saw to it. Alex practiced his powers a bit, by lifting small objects, and starting a small wastebasket fire that he put out shortly after lighting. He then lay back on his bed, and was about to fall asleep when the door knocked. He got up, put on his pants, and opened the door. It was Celes, and she looked terrible. Eyes were bloodshot, face was stained with tears, and she shook a bit now and then. Alex helped her in, and she sat down in a chair. Alex sat down next to her as she began to speak.

"Alex... I don't... want you to go... Something terrible will happen, it did for me... and I..I don't want to lose you like I lost... Locke..."

"I'll be fine, Celes. I know how Kefka fights, been studying for 27 years."

"We... thought we did too...."

"I know, Celes. I know I can win." Alex stood up. "Here, Celes, I'll help you back to your room. Everything'll be fine. Really..." Celes stood, and wrapped her arms around Alex and drew close to him. "Celes, you really should..."

"Don't you understand, Alex? I may not . . see you again..." Celes stood there, shaking and crying on Alex.

It reminded him of when he first met her on that cold November evening. "Listen, Celes. I need you to take care of Terra for me. Jamie too. Those two depend on you, okay?"

Celes slowly calmed down. "Okay. But I'm just so scared!"

He wrapped his arms around her, and they stood that way for at least an hour. Celes fell asleep, and he took her to her room. He kissed her, and went back to his room. He laid awake in the dark for 2 hours, until Seth came and they headed toward the lift which would take them to Axis Vector. The final battleground.

"HEY ALEX!" Alex snapped awake and nearly hit his head. Seth was shaking his shoulder. "We're here." Alex stood up, and the 3 discreetly left the airship, which was docked on a landing port on Axis Vector. They made their way to the Tower, and entered it. The place seemed more ominous now, the statues of Kefka in the main entrance seemed to paralyze Alex with their unending glow. The receptionist let them by, thinking they were tourists from some hick farm town, which meant Alex's Masquerade spell worked. They made a quick plan in front of the lift: Alex would go to Kefka's chambers and complete his mission, Seth and Garret would find the Eye and disable it. They would then meet at the Barrens, the wrecks around Kefka's Tower. The plan made, Alex stepped onto the lift.

Kefka's chambers were terrifying, but quiet. When Alex snuck in, the aura of the room screamed evil to him now, and he clutched his head to stop the magical cries of evil. It faded, and Alex saw he was in the library. It was just like before, but several organic containers were empty. Alex then moved into a corridor. They were empty. Alex then stepped into the study he was in when he was being trained. The furnishings were much like before, and it gave the place a bit of sanity. He stood there, and a door opened. Celes came out, and ran to him. What?

"Alex! I knew you'd find your way here!" Celes drew close to him. "You don't need to do this." Celes wrapped her arms around him and brought him closer to her. "We're together, isn't that enough?"

"No, it isn't. Kefka needs to be stopped. Even if he doesn't find Jamie and sacrifice her, then he'll burn everything on the Earth."

Celes looked up at him. "But that doesn't matter."

"To the people below it does. And how did you get here?"

"Very well then, Alex, if that is what you choose..."

Celes kissed Alex, who closed his eyes, trying to imagine why she was here and acting like this. When he opened his eyes, he was staring into the face of a long-rotted corpse. Alex paled and backed away as the thing laughed at him and mocked him.

"I thought you loved me, Alex! You said you'd protect me!"

It's not real, Celes is alive. This is a demonic hallucination, not real... NOT REAL!

The Celes-thing slowly faded away into dust. Alex felt fear creep in to his very being. This would be the worst evening of his life.

Seth and Garret found the Eye's docking port. After a short battle with security, they had received some outfits that could get them by guards. They began to work on the Eye. It would take an hour to complete...

Alex moved through Kefka's chambers quietly. Alex had wished he killed himself 7 years back when he had the chance. The visions he saw were terrible. Kefka was trying to drive Alex insane, and it would work. He felt like he would vomit all over himself in every new room, which had at least one vision of him, Celes, or him and Celes, usually involving something violent and disgusting, while the single events were meant to frighten him into backing away, or committing an act of disservice. It was all terrible to Alex, who was made to watch each scene to the last minute. Alex stumbled through Kefka's chambers to a small bedroom, the one where he found Terra. He collapsed on a dresser, and stared into the mirror. He saw his reflection. Kefka's reflection appeared over it, superimposing the two. It all made sense to Alex. Kefka wanted Alex to share his madness, become his "son", not just in the sense from Alex's childhood, but his actual successor. Alex got up, and continued. He came to the dreaded gallery. With courage in his heart, he entered. The pictures came alive as he viewed them, tortures and slayings reenacted themselves for Alex. He stood in the door and looked about the paintings. He concentrated, and they all burst into flames. Like that, Kefka? Alex left the flaming room. He came across more apparitions, now more disturbing. He hated this more, but endured. He simply endured. He came into another gallery, a long hall lined with more portraits, and at the end was a lift. There were 2 variations of portraits, each featuring Terra and Celes. These weren't enchanted, only static images. He set them aflame as well, and operated the lift. Calm down, Celes, it'll be over soon.

Garret poked at the control board with the screwdriver, and pulled it off. Seth looked over a schematic for the core rods. 42 more minutes...

The lift took him to the dark chapel of Hell. The floor was made of a black substance that ate the light from the roof. The altar was drenched in blood and various fluids, and the pews were made from a black oak. He approached the altar, and he curled up in pain and unconsciousness on the floor. He saw a woman standing over him, and she reached for him.

Celes sat in the main room of the hideout with Terra. They were talking a bit, Celes trying to mask her fear for Alex, Terra comforting her. He'll be fine, he'll be fine. He will, I know he is, he'll come back and everything will be fine how could he leave me like this he'll be fine...

"How are you feeling, Celes?"

--oh no he'll kill him and come for me and Terra and Jamie and he'll lock us up he'll hurt us again Alex be careful don't let him-- "Just fine, Terra."

--he has to come back he needs to for me Terra Jamie and our-- "Yeah, just fine." Celes stood and walked into her room. She laid on her bed and stared at the ceiling.

Calm down, Celes, it'll be over soon.

"Alex?" She sat upright and looked about. You really need to calm down, imagining Alex is here won't help any. She lay back on the bed, and contemplated the future. She now knew she was pregnant, she could sense it when she cast a Cure spell on herself after cutting her finger with a knife, could sense the life in her. It made sense why Alex kept asking her about her health before he left. He just has to come back. All will then be well. She would actually be a mother now. Alex would marry her when he came back. He will, I can tell he wants to. They would find a place to live, somewhere away from Kefka, and all would be peaceful. Alex can handle himself. He said it himself, he knows Kefka, he can combat him and come away successful. Celes smiled at that, leaned back a bit, and fell asleep.

Alex was dreaming. He was sure he was dreaming. He stood with the woman by a lake. He remembered the lake, seven years ago. Juliet had left him a week back, and he rode by the lake on Cort. He had stopped by it, and watched the peaceful lake, it's calm surface, the life around it. Oh, how lovely it would have been for Alex to slip beneath the surface, be one with the beauty of the lake, and not have to face the hideous pain. Staring at the lake made the pain leave him, clearing his heart, giving him strength to continue, and not snuff himself. He turned to the woman, whose face was hidden behind a dark hood. He looked back, and he was at the opera house. He saw himself, 18 years of age, applauding Maria, who stood in the light, her beautiful face in a smile of appreciation, staring at Alex and at the audience. He smiled at this. The woman turned to him now, an image of Celes appeared. Celes was smiling, looking out the window of the old apartment, and turned to Alex. The light on her face was beautiful.

"You can't let Kefka win, Alex. All this will be lost to you." Alex remembered the voice from somewhere. "In the past, you have tried to embrace death, from suicidal thoughts to reckless mutant hunting. But now, you have life to look forward to. Celes's life, Jamie's life, and the life of Celes's child."

Alex looked at the woman. Did Celes know?

"We will give you the strength to persevere, the aura of this unholy cathedral will sap your power without it, and so will Kefka who waits below." Alex remembered the voice, the voice of the Oracle. "Go forth, Alex, and fight the evil. Your powers will serve you well in the upcoming conflict." The oracle touched Alex, and her strength revived him. He got up off the floor. He stared at the altar, and the statue in the alcove behind it, and concentrated. He set the room to burn, not with just his power, but with the powers of the Goddesses and their holy wrath. The icons of evil crumbled, fading to dust, as the light purified the area. Alex went back to the lift as the room burned behind him.

Garret carefully extracted the core rod, and wrapped it in a non-rad cloth before placing it in a garbage chute. 4 more rods and 28 minutes...

Kefka was waiting for Alex. "I wish you hadn't done that, Alex."

"Don't tal