Endgame: Not With a Bang

[animusnpcs]

The whole Tower went a brilliant, blinding white. Then it went black, and there was nothing. Surely this is it--something's gone wrong, something's failed, it didn't work, everyone is dead, or maybe worse--

And then light filters back in--it lights only the various residents of the Tower. No matter where in the Tower they were before this happened, they are all together again now. It appears that they are in a void, but after a few moments, as if their eyes are adjusting to it, more things become visible: the machine that may be their salvation is here. Ruana, with a visible pulse of energy encircling her, is here, but appears colorless and frozen. Aria is here.

Zo is here. And he speaks. "I can't hold her forever. We have to act now. I want to save you all, so I'll do my best. Just tell me, okay?

What do you want me to do?"

Comments

[oathshackledbird]

I am just glad I was able to do so much for you. After all, you did a lot for me and you deserve happiness as well, no matter what you think right now.

[Diarmuid smiles at him.]

Find a way to visit soon, okay? Don't make me wait too long, brother.

[swordofzero]

[He nods] I'll try my best, you might have more luck than me though, Waver's bound to think of something.

[oathshackledbird]

[A knowing smile crosses Diarmuid's face.]

Yes, lets be honest. If anyone figures it out, it will be Waver and not me. He is a lot smarter and talented than he gives himself credit for. We'll find a way. Until then, be as well as you can be. I will think of you often.

[swordofzero]

I will think of you often as well, I am glad to know that I can think of you being safe and happy with Waver.

[oathshackledbird]

I will do my best to be as happy as I can be, especially if that helps put you at ease.

[After a moment of thought, Diarmuid reaches up and removes the cloak he is wearing around his shoulders. He then folds it and holds it to Suzaku.]

I got my father's cloak back after one of the events. Even though it was stripped of its powers, wearing it still brought me comfort during times when I needed it. It won't be the same as me being there with you, but it is something. I hope wearing it will help remind you that you aren't alone no matter now much it seems so.

[swordofzero]

[Suzaku blinked as he took the cloak, touched by the gesture. He removed his own cloak and wrapped it around him. Then he held out his own to Diarmuid.] Then I ask that you take this to remember me, I am not sure how comforting it will be.

[oathshackledbird]

[Diarmuid takes the cloak with a smile and wastes no time wrapping it around his shoulders.]

It will be a great comfort. Have no doubt of that.

[swordofzero]

I hope it is.

[He held the cloak he was wearing closer around him.] I won't forget you Diarmuid Ua Duibhne. Even if we don't manage to see each other again [It was a possibility]

[oathshackledbird]

Nor I you, Suzaku Kururugi. Even if we don't meet again, you will always be my family and one of the strongest people I have ever met. Be well, my brother, as you walk along whatever paths await you.

[swordofzero]

[Tears were threatening now and he tried to keep himself in check] You are one of the greatest people I have ever met, I know you will be well... [They should probably leave before this turns into a mess. He knelt down to scratch Mac an Chuill behind the ears] You look after him you hear me.

[oathshackledbird]

[Mac an Chuill barks his agreement. The dog ran once when Diarmuid needed him the most. It's not going to happen again.

Diarmuid pats the dog on the head and then nods to acknowledge his brother's words. He doesn't say anymore, though, because he is also close to tears and that is the last thing either of them need right now. Instead, he motions for Mac an Chuill to follow him and they walk away to join Waver to wait for whatever is coming next.]

[swordofzero]

[Suzaku straightened again and watched as Diarmuud walked back into the crowd. He took a few breaths, calming himself before turning away and moving to the side, to wait for whatever was going to happen.]