[Thread; Closed]

[mademyresolve.livejournal.com]

Characters: Delita and Ashe
Summary: Seeking closure, the pair visit the Farplane to say goodbye to their loved ones.
Location: The Farplane and Guadosalam
Date: A few days after their return to Warjilis
Warnings: Initial angst?

Not lightly had the choice been made. Even as they rode on chocobo back with a half-hour's journey behind them, Ashelia couldn't help but question whether her decision to accompany Delita had been driven by selfishness. This place - the Farplane - somehow granted the opportunity to see images of those loved and lost. Journeying there meant she could see Rasler again, yet this reunion, she knew, would differ greatly from those past. Well, those in Gaia.

Her mind wandered, into the great halls of Raithwall's Tomb where the prince's ghostly form had materialised and gripped her heart. This would prove closer to the form she would find in the Farplane. Without being, a representation only. Yet it would not deceive her, as the Occuria had aimed for those years ago. No longer would she be toyed with, nor Rasler's likeness used undeservedly. In her eyes, this journey held one purpose alone.

To find some semblance of closure, and the will to embrace the future.

Comments

[lionwarhero.livejournal.com]

Delita himself had mixed emotions regarding this trip to the farplane. For too long, he had sought nothing but the soothing of his conscience regarding his sister's death. He spared a glance to his side taking note of the woman beside him. Scarcely could he believe that she was joining him on this particular trek. It surprised him even more, that he knew she would accompany him before the question had even been asked.

Once upon a time he would have returned there solely to lament his lot in life, but this time his purpose was to move forward. He hoped to say goodbye once and for all to his sister, but he also wished to share this portion of his life with the princess. He knew not if closure would come for him, but he knew that both Tietra and Ashelia deserved more from him.

[mademyresolve.livejournal.com]

Revelations had not been limited to the knight alone. For his surprise was shared and the princess had known, even without the possibility of facing Rasler's likeness, that she would have accompanied him nonetheless. Delita's oath to remain near so long as she needed - it was unspokenly returned. To an extent, Ashe understood the deep impact his sister's loss had borne upon his life. Such knowledge he had entrusted to her, the regret, responsibility and guilt which she herself had endured upon Rasler's death. In that sharing grew understanding, that loss had played a significant role in both their lives, moulding them into the people they were today and inevitably drawing them closer together.

Sight of their destination up ahead brought an unease she ought to have anticipated, yet Ashe refused to doubt, looking to Delita and finding herself strengthened by his presence.

[lionwarhero.livejournal.com]

As they approached the farplane destination, Delita slowed his chocobo. He gave an appreciative glance to Ashelia. After so many years of held rage, it was time to put her to rest. Still it was a little scary, but he was thankful that she was along.

He looked down, apprehensive about going in drawing strength from the princess' nearness. It was solely his desire to share his sister's likeness that drew him on.

"I am glad to have your company this day Ashelia."

[mademyresolve.livejournal.com]

Despite Guadosalam's close proximity to Warjilis, this was her first experience of the place, and even without entering she marvelled upon its construction, the huge tangle of oversized roots of the ethereal Iifa Tree within which the city lay nestled. Alongside his chocobo, hers matched the slower pace without command, prompting her to turn toward Delita even before words came to him. To someone without appreciation of the day's meaning, his statement was simple. For Ashe, it said everything, for she could no sooner have made this journey alone than he, and she nodded as they passed into the unfamiliar realm itself.

"As am I, to have yours."

Sensing her mount's sudden unease, the princess took the initiative and dismounted to secure the chocobo's reins to a branch. From there on, walking was necessary.

[lionwarhero.livejournal.com]

Likewise Delita dismounted Ardi, leaving him beside the princess'. Having been to Guadosalam and the Iifa Tree twice before, he knew well the way. This day though, was the first that it was his decision, his choice to visit.

He stared for a moment at the fullness of the tree, before offering his arm to assist her up onto the first of the roots. For the first time, he noticed the greatness of the tree before them.

While not being withdrawn, Delita did not introduce conversation. He kept his gaze upwards, drawing attention to the hole that marked the entrance to Guadosalam.

[mademyresolve.livejournal.com]

Having accepted the offered arm, Ashe had clambered with whatever grace the act allowed onto the root. The place lying within felt quiet, though this seemed right, somehow. The atmosphere spoke of great age and powerful magick, the princess breathing in deeply as she reminded herself of their purpose.

A purpose upon which Delita appeared to be focused, given the fixation of his gaze. Ashe clasped her hands together and stepped closer to him, nodding toward the open hole.

"... That is the way?"

[lionwarhero.livejournal.com]

"The hole opens into Guadosalem."

His steps got smaller the closer they approached the hole. He wasn't sure if it was more difficult saying a final goodbye to his sister, or letting go of some of the past.

"Once we arrive in Guadsalem, it's a long spiral down to the platform that looks into the farplane."

His hand brushed against hers in accidence, drawing forth a strength that he didn't even know that he required.

[mademyresolve.livejournal.com]

She felt his inner struggle, her reaction to the touch of Delita's hand almost calling forth one of her own. But she found focus, which likely came easier to herself since she lacked any first-hand concept of the Farplane, nor the experience. He, on the other hand, possessed that. Ashe wasn't certain which perspective felt easier, if at all possible.

"Then, let us go on," she offered quietly before carefully stepping up to the entrance, the decisive action meant as motivation for them both. There she waited for Delita to join her, gazed out across the tangled weave which formed Guadosalam.

"Amazing..."

[lionwarhero.livejournal.com]

Delita followed immediately behind, the desire to share his life more important than any momentary discomfort.

The trip down to the farplane was still long indeed, and he felt compelled to share a little of what she might find.

"All who have passed this life are found within its borders, yet expect little from the visions. Nothing is said, only stoic non-moving apparitions."

He was ready to move at Ashelia's pace, for he knew that communing with the departed could be trying and emotionally draining.

[mademyresolve.livejournal.com]

Although she continued on by Delita's side, Ashe very much relied upon him to lead the way onward or, as he claimed it would be, downward. To what he shared, she listened intently, trying to prepare herself for the manner in which she would see Rasler, and Delita, his sister. Very much akin to the Occurian form, then.

"The images... we only see those who were most important to us?"

Somewhat eerily, the city stood quiet, which enabled their conversation to come unhindered by greetings nor glances from the native Guado.

[lionwarhero.livejournal.com]

The inhabitants were used to many a weary traveler seeking closure with loved ones. They would not bother the pair until they returned from its depths.

Delita was well versed in their ways after his initial visit.

"You can see whomever you deem worthy enough to see."

In his case, his attention was limited to his sister. It would also show any of Ashelia's loved ones as well. He led her deeper and deeper towards its entrance until they could see its outline in the distance.

[mademyresolve.livejournal.com]

So far into the depths - Ashe had hardly imagined such was possible, and the path downward began to seem endless. Quietly she walked in step with the knight, slowing only when she caught sight of a great, glowing archway. The movement, it almost appeared alive, as what appeared to be fireflies drew her attention and curiosity.

From what she could tell, they had to pass through and onto the platform before them, amid the strange green glow... What had been nerves had passed. If anything, the princess felt drawn onward, wanting to look closer at the mystery ahead.

Yet she waited, knew it was important that Delita be the one to make the move and take the first steps within.

[lionwarhero.livejournal.com]

Rather than break the sanctity of the farplane, Delita paused but a moment before entering. He reached out his hand in support to Ashelia should she wish it, before passing through the familiar archway.

Conscious of the other guests, he led them to an empty corner and stood there for a moment devoid of thought. He wasn't quite ready to face the fact that she was departed, never to return.

He simply looked down until a memory of he and Tietra blowing grass in the fields crept into his thoughts. As the vision formed in the pyreflies, he clung to the last few moments of denying her eternal death with a low murmer, "Tietra."

[mademyresolve.livejournal.com]

Ashe made no conscious decision to take his hand, rather hers seemed to accept his out of instinct as they passed, together, beyond the archway. What lay within elicited no less than reverent awe from the princess; the platform seemingly floating amidst billowing cloud and green hue.

Sight of other visitors surprised her somewhat, but then grief's reach was far, and though intrigued, respect lowered her gaze to lend privacy to them - to Delita as he stood in silence. Ashe did not release his hand, not even when the figure began to form, a young girl, spirit-like. His lost sister.

She gasped, able only to gaze upon the image and know she had been the most important person in Delita's life. Coupled with feelings of intrusion came great privilege, for the significance of this moment was not lost on her.

[lionwarhero.livejournal.com]

Delita held firm to the princess' hand, drawing strength from her warmth. He gives his attention to the living, focusing upon his friend.

"She was too young, but I'm glad for you to have seen her."

He let his gaze drift over to his sister, ready to finally accept her death. It pleased him that he was able to share this moment with Ashelia.

Finally at peace, his frown began to disappear even if he wasn't quite ready to smile.

[mademyresolve.livejournal.com]

"Thank you..."

For what she expressed her gratitude Ashe couldn't be certain, be it his company or the sharing of so personal an experience. Perhaps both. Having drawn her line of sight away from the apparition, she met Delita's gaze with her own, calm and placid.

Hope that he felt that which he set out to achieve... it slowly gave way to wonder. Could she truly find peace for her prince? Thoughts of Rasler came to her, the lack of respect with which the Occuria had manipulated his image. His memory deserved no less than peace, and her acceptance.

Only when Delita turns back to the incredible skyscape before them did she follow, only for a more prominent gasp to escape her lips. For there, before her, floated his very visage.

"Rasler..."

[lionwarhero.livejournal.com]

All of a sudden, Delita saw none other than Lord Nabradia standing next to his sister. He was about to note the similarities when Ashelia spoke his name.

He dared not say anything, for he knew of nothing appropriate to say. Instead, he just stood silently trying to take stock of the situation. His own sister all but forgotten, his thoughts turned to consoling the princess. While he may not have known of how to handle the situation, his hand grasped the princess' a little firmer hoping to reassure her that she was not alone.

As her friend, he waited for as long as she required - his only movement consisting of shifting his gaze from Lord Nabradia back to his sister.

[mademyresolve.livejournal.com]

Vacant, lifeless, blank. Ashe breathed deeply as the princely image's eyes stared into the distance without any of the light they once contained. She was granted an opportunity beyond belief, but... this was not how she wanted to remember her fallen husband. He was lost to her, though the memories were not. Many ought not even have come to pass, had it not been for Gaia.

Rather than regret, she found feelings of gratitude rising within. And just as the princess once stood upon the palace balcony to say her silent goodbyes, so she did again. Praying he could finally rest, Ashelia lowered her eyes, holding on to Delita's hand, so warm and comforting. When she looked up at him, watching his sister, understanding dawned. They didn't belong there, but amongst the living. Leaving this behind would not mean forgetting - rather accepting their pasts, and moving into the future.

"Their place is here," she stated quietly, focusing on her friend. "Ours... is not."

[lionwarhero.livejournal.com]

Delita listened intently to Ashelia. Never before had someone spoken ao elegantly and poignantly to him regarding his sister before.

He mulled her words in his mind over and over as he looked upon his sister. If not for the princess' hand in his own, he may have retreated back to his grief.

Grasping her hand for strength, he finally transferred his attention away from his Tietra.

"We do not belong here.?"

It is said almost with a plea for he has been a stranger among men ever since that day and he's not quite sure where he belongs except that he will remain responsible for this woman's welfare.

[mademyresolve.livejournal.com]

Not with pity did she look to him, but understanding. Deep within the halls of Orbonne Monastery had he confessed - 'I have ever handled my burdens alone.' In her own time of need, she herself had been fortunate in the presence of friends who taught her the value of sharing burdens. Yet he had been... alone. On that day she offered trust and sought to end his solitude. Now, she hoped he trusted her enough to accept her words.

"We cannot restore their lives, Delita... though we can grant them the peace of which they are deserving." Gently she spoke, respectful. "Rasler once spoke of his wish that I continue living. Tietra... would she not wish the same for her brother?"

Instinct instructed her to stroke her ring, yet Ashelia denied it, held securely onto his hand, needed the warm contact just as much.

"... We belong with the living."

[lionwarhero.livejournal.com]

Delita indeed listened to the woman beside him. He wasn't sure quite how to live, but he was slowly learning what it meant as his friendship with the princess grew.

He fully turned his attention away from the apparitions, to focus on the living.

"I know no other way to live."

He looked deep into Ashelia's eyes asking her patience and assistance to attempt this growth. He leaned closer in, drawing massive inner strength but still too self-conscious to instigate the comfort of the embrace that he was seeking.

Unable to articulate the gratitude he felt, he hoped that the small smile would be enough to convey his feelings on the matter.

[mademyresolve.livejournal.com]

Such brutal honesty... Drawn into his gaze, Ashe was able to read the unspoken request for guidance, for comfort, and resolved to offer all she could; which began with a faint smile of her own, followed by the very gesture he sought.

Slowly, yet without apprehension she stepped closer, came to rest against him, encircled her arms around Delita and held him in a comfort they had shared only once prior. As for the reason, it remained the same, even if the solace she received in return felt... different, somehow.

"Then learn, with me."

The statement passed her lips without forethought, the princess surprising herself in the act. While she knew leaving the Farplane for the surface was the best option for them both, Ashe couldn't end the embrace, not yet, giving thought to her accidental words.

[lionwarhero.livejournal.com]

Delita sought nothing from the embrace, seeking only the compassion that had been offered. He added his arms to complete the circle. His head reaching to her shoulder of its own accord drawing from her the needed comfort and strength.

He dwelled upon her statement as well. 'Learn with me.' He knew not fully everything she meant, but he determined to learn surprising himself with his inward vow. As he closed his eyes, his thoughts drifted away from his sister and unto the woman within his embrace.

A contented smile began to form beyond her view as he noticed the silkiness of her locks against his cheek. It was not until he noticed the softness of her back that he became awkwardly aware that this was not just some friendly princess he was holding, but a full-fledged woman.

He began to pull back, lest Lord Nabradia step from beyond the farplane and demand pittance for his improprieties. A faint flush filled his cheeks as he softly spoke.

"'Tis a road I will travel with you."

[mademyresolve.livejournal.com]

The embrace ended, yet she was left lamenting the loss of his arms around her. Ashe felt confused, were the emotions of the day getting the better of her, or was this... something more? Not once did her attention leave Delita, not until his soft words broke the quiet between them. Having heard that, knowing he meant to progress in life alongside her, meant more than she could explain, and such was unexpected.

The princess focused again on their present, looked toward the exit with some apprehension. Passing through would mean a departure from the past. However, she would not break her resolve. Nor would she turn back to the floating images - for they would never be real, nor compare to true memory.

"I... am ready to leave, when you wish it."

Rather than the depths below, Ashe desired the fresh air, the warm sunlight above the grassy plain where their chocobos were tethered. Only then would this truly lie behind them.

[lionwarhero.livejournal.com]

For the first time, Delita was ready to depart the farplane. He knew not what the future held, but alongside Ashelia he could step forward.

"I need not remain within these borders evermore."

Delita firmly held out his hand before the princess. He knew not completely why he felt so compelled to exit by her side except it felt right and natural to begin this chapter in his life as such.

"Let us leave, never to return."

He never breathed as he waited to her to respond to his gesture. Even though he knew it to be trivial, the importance that she grasp his cloud defied all logic and thought.