MLTO- The Epilogue (Part 8)

This is the eighth (and last) Part of "MLIV:TO" 's sixth and last Chapter, as well as the last part of "MLIV:TO" overall.
It was released on 26.04.2023.
== Plot ==
The sacred mission of Geralt Kaos has been completed! The Empire has been brought down to its knees and Emperor Redmark will soon receive a proper punishment for his most unholy crimes. It is a day of joy and hope for the citizens of the entire world.
And yet, even through the greatest threat to the world (and, perhaps, the universe) has been removed, there is still a lot to do. Cities have to be rebuilt. Wild beasts have to be chased away. And, most importantly, a bright future must be forged from the ashes of the previous one.
What will be the final fate of the heroes who saved the Known Lands from evil?
== Story ==
As our heroes march victorious toward the capital of Silverdale, they look back at Emperor Redmark. Now that his entire army has been defeated, he is very close to going mad. His eyes are blood red and his hands are trembling. Even though there is clearly no future left for his dark Empire, he still dreams of makin the world suffer. And, as the wise people say, a tyrant will stay a tyrant for his entire life. Nothing will ever change him.
"So, emperor. Now that we can finally talk, I want to know something about you."- Geralt says- "Tell me more about yourself. Are you really a descendant of an ancient family of evil? Were you motivated by the spirits of the fallen ones or did you do it on your own accord?"
Marcus shakes his head.
"It's true. I am a part of what used to be an ancient and powerful family. But there's some things that your teachers didn't dare to tell you."- He says- "In each period of time, there was one person who was destined to rule it all. When they were young, they received a vision. A sign of clairvoyance, you might call it. And it depicted the lands of the world, scorched by the flames of vengeance. Desperate, scared people roam the streets, afraid for their own lives. And there is the emperor, holy and just, ruling over all those fools with an iron fist. He always had a sword in his lap and a bloody goblet in his right hand. The fist of fury has always been free, ready to crush all of those who dared to speak against their own leader. And I... I saw the same thing when I was a child. I dared not to believe it, since it looked like a childish fantasy. But as I grew older, I knew what had to be done. What I saw back there, it was my destiny."
Aurelia sighs.
"And that's the reason why he almost destroyed the whole world."
Marcus looks at her.
"Believe me, I didn't want to. I just... wanted to make the people see that the Empire cannot be opposed."- He says- "But none of them refused to believe me. Nobody took my rule seriously. So, I had no other choice, but to reveal the other side of the coin."
Aurelia rolls her eyes.
"Your crimes are truly unforgivable. Many people died because of you."- She mutters- "Still, if Geralt is willing to spare you, I won't object. He knows best about how you should be dealt with. I just hope that your punishment is not a light one."
Marcus sighs.
"Yeah."- He says- "I know."
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"But what about the reason why you attacked the Kaos family four years ago?"- He asks- "Did you do it all on your own accord? Or were your strings being pulled by someone else, an individual that we do not know yet?"
Marcus shakes his head.
"In my early years, I used to be a simple warrior. I was in a team with Adam Kaos and I knew both him and his father. I used to admire his bravery, but I soon came to despise him because of everything that he achieved in life. Everything that I could never be."- He says- "When I became emperor, I started to openly hate that man. So, I decided to launch a surprise attack on him and his beloved family. Believe me, I didn't intend to kill anyone. But the circumstances forced me to act like that. Adam killed many warriors of the old empire in the past and my people wanted him to pay a blood price for his crimes. So, I had to do it myself."
Geralt shakes his head.
"That is very interesting."- He says- "But you did not actually answer my question. Did you do it on your own accord or not?"
Marcus looks up.
"You want the truth? Well, no. I did not."- He says- "I had many powerful allies. They helped me seize the throne from that blabbering old fool and take charge of the most powerful empire in the Known Lands. Three of them were the golden delights of my allied forces. However, I have not heard of them for many years."
Geralt nods.
"Very well. I understand."- He says- "Thank you for your cooperation."
Aurelia sighs.
"All of this sounds like simple jealousy to me."- She voices her opinion- "Many villains have always been jealous of someone else during their so-called careers. They always wanted someone dead because they were better than them. Redmark is, truth be told, very predictable. Such a pity for an ambitious emperor like him."
Geralt glares at Marcus.
"You and your people killed my sister."- He says- "Aren't you at least a little bit ashamed of what you did back then?"
Marcus glares back.
"Well, you killed one of my finest generals on that very day. Troy Harvey, if you care enough to remember him. I saw it all with my own eyes."- He says- "So, I think that we're due. You have no right to make me compensate you."
Geralt sighs.
"Troy was nothing more than a bloodthirsty murderer, sugarcoated in imperial goodness. His heart was always tainted by evil and his high status only made it worse."- He says- "Did you really think that he would last for very long? A man whose sole mission is to make the good people of this world suffer does not deserve any mercy. And this is the reason why I showed none of it."
He continues to glare at him.
"And the generals that we defeated. Those foolish, self-centered fools who pretended to care about you and your beloved empire."- He says- "Well, they were not better."
Marcus sighs.
"We were defeated by a bunch of incompetent children and overly righteous fools."- He says- "The next emperor will make sure that all of you pay for this insolence! That, I assure you!"
Geralt smiles, knowing that words like those will never hurt him anymore.
"But the next emperor will not be chosen by you."- He retorts- "And, once you are gone, a new age of the Empire will rise and shine. The Darkside Loyalists and those loyal to your regiment will be punished for their crimes. The dark side of the empire will be forgotten and, soon, gone for good."
Marcus shakes his head.
"Argh. You're so infuriating."- He says, clearly annoyed- "Can we just go on already?"
Aurelia grins.
"Sounds like someone's really bummed right now."- She says- "The truth hurts more than a giant wasp's stringer. Isn't that right, Mr. Redmark?"
Marcus says nothing.
"Heh."- Aurelia adds and smiles- "I thought so."
As the group continues to move, Jared approaches the former emperor.
"Before we go further, I want to know something."- He says to him- "Are you truly aware of what happened during the day when you slaughtered our family? Sure, you killed Kiara and chased us away, but do you know what happened to the man you once respected- my son?"
Marcus looks at him.
"I never heard a thing about it."- He says- "Care to enlighten me?"
Jared sighs.
"He set a huge fire and killed many of your soldiers."- He says- "We never saw him again, but we never found his body either."
Marcus raises his eyebrow.
"So, you mean that Adam... might still be alive?"
Jared smiles.
"In fact, we already know that he is alive."- He says- "The signs have never been more clear."
Marcus sighs.
"I wish him a good future, wherever he is."- He says- "I failed to fulfill my own destiny. But he still has a future in his hands. I hope that he can find what he's looking for."
Jared nods.
"Here's hoping that you're truly honest about it."- He says- "You and Adam used to be friends in the past. Maybe he will still be able to forgive you."
Marcus raises his eyebrow.
"Well?"- He asks- "Will you?"
Jared looks at him. A series of conflicting emotions swirl inside of his mind as he carefully chooses his response. Finally, he decides to say the words of a true hero.
"Yes. I will forgive your earthly crimes, just this life."- He says- "I do not want to be your judge. I will allow the almighty one to do it instead."
Marcus smiles.
"Are you acting like that because you're scared of me?"
Geralt shakes his head.
"He is just saying that scum like you deserves to be punished by its own creator, not by the heroes of this world."- He says- "Do not think that you are inducing some kind of fear inside of us. We have already seen far more than you can imagine. Your words do not scare us."
Marcus looks at him.
"I thought that true heroes like you are the hands of God."- He says- "Perhaps I was wrong."
Geralt sighs.
"Yes. We are the warriors of light. The messengers of the heavens, given the chance to save the planet."- He says- "But heroes like us are not meant to shine everywhere, especially to villains such as yourself. We will punish you as best as we can, but the biggest punishment will be carried above the veil of the world."
Marcus blinks a few times.
"You're not making sense."
Geralt nods.
"That's because you are not that smart."- He says- "If you cannot understand simple words like those, then you are truly lost."
Marcus sighs.
"Let's just go."- He says- "Already."
Aurelia stands next to Geralt and smiles.
"Bummed again."- She says- "Hmph. Redmark's very easy to tick off."
Geralt sighs.
"He is still our prisoner."- He says- "We should treat him with some respect, even if it is just a tiny bit."
Aurelia looks at him.
"But you're the one who told him that he's not smart."
Geralt nods.
"That is true. But I just wanted to prove the point of those who thought the same thing in the past."- He says- "Even though I do hold a personal vendetta against him, I do not wish to insult him. This is beyond my level of intelligence and I do not want to stand so low."
Aurelia smiles.
"Oh! I got it!"- She exclaims- "An indirect insult's better than a direct one!"
Geralt sighs.
"Bingo."- He responds- "You are a very smart girl, Auri."
Aurelia's eyes start to gleam. Sparkles appear inside of them as she looks at Geralt.
"Really?"- He says- "You mean it?"
Geralt nods.
"Of course you are."- He says- "I have met many girls in my life, but few were as smart and caring as you are right now. That is why I respect you so much."
Aurelia smiles.
"You know that your compliments will only make me love you more, right?"
Geralt sighs.
"I am fine with that."
Aurelia hugs him.
"That's why you'll always be my hero!"
As Geralt hugs Aurelia back, a lone person approaches them. It is Moritz- the Avernite scout that Geralt and his allies saved earlier.
"Excuse me."- He says- "Can I talk to you for a second?"
Geralt looks at him.
"Oh, Moritz! It is good to see you!"- He exclaims- "How has life been treating you?"
Moritz smiles.
"Pretty well, actually."- He says- "It turns out that being an adventurer is much more profitable than being a scout. That job was very dull and the Baron didn't know what he was doing. I'm glad that you pointed me toward the right path."
Geralt nods.
"I am always eager to help the good people of this world."- He says- "You are welcome."
Moritz sighs.
"But that's not the reason why I wanted to talk to you."- He says- "When I was in Silverdale for a while, your aunt spoke to me. I told her that I'm one of the people that you spared and she shared some... disturbing details about what she was going to do next."
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"You spoke with aunt Akira?"- He asks- "Is she feeling well?"
Moritz shakes his head.
"After her husband's demise, she's always felt very empty. She said that she told you not to worry about it, but she's always been worried herself. All this pain's like a burden for her."- He says- "I fear that she may never be able to recover. And, if we allow her to do stuff on her own, it may become much worse."
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"So, you want me to speak with her. Convince her that she still has a life worth living."- He says- "Is this your request?"
Moritz nods.
"It's just a humble task."- He says- "I know that your aunt's not somebody that I know, but I'm worried about her. She needs help."
Geralt sighs.
"Alright. I will do my best to calm her down."- He responds- "Thank you for your time, Moritz. You are a good person."
Moritz smiles.
"You helped me become one, Geralt."- He says- "I owe it all to you and your friends."
Aurelia smiles.
"Aww."- She says- "I'm glad that my healing wasn't in vain."
Geralt nods.
"And I am glad that my choice to give you another chance has been paid off."- He says- "You will become a great hero someday."
Moritz raises his eyebrow.
"You mean it?"
Geralt nods.
"Of course I do."- He says- "I know a real hero when I see one."
Moritz sighs.
"Thanks for the trust, Geralt."- He says- "I'll just stand back now. Once the emperor's been taken care of, I'll leave and continue helping people."
Geralt smiles.
"That is wonderful, my friend."
As the group keeps marching forward, Jared points at the lights ahead of them.
"The city of Silverdale is just ahead."- He says- "Get ready, everyone. The final step of our journey is about to begin."
It has taken our heroes a few hours to reach Silverdale, but the process of setting up Redmark's trial takes much less time than that. A huge crowd gathers to watch the punishment of the one who has been torturing them for so long, some of them angry that he is still alive. All of them quiver with anticipation as Geralt and Aurelia step on the podium and drag the emperor in front of them.
"Citizens of Silverdale! Noble souls of the world! Today is the day when the emperor shall stand in front of you and answer for his crimes!"- Geralt exclaims- "For a long time, our people have been troubled by this seemingly insignificant man. Although he does not seem like much now, his power and absolute rule are what managed to bring most continents to their knees. This is the person who ordered the murders of your loved ones, the tyrant who torched all of your homes and allowed many of you to endlessly roam the streets, all while he sat in his comfortable little empire and watched you from above. But no longer. Now, he stands on the same level as you. The royal hierarchy has been broken and a new age of freedom and light shall rise!"
The people raise their fists in the air and cheer as Geralt forces Redmark to step further.
"And now, my dear friends. My worthy allies. My loyal comrades."- He says- "How will Redmark's reign of terror end?!"
At once, the crowd starts chanting the same words. None of them dare to say something else- a villain like Redmark does not deserve a less severe punishment.
"Death to the Emperor!"- They chant with all their strength- "Death to the Empire!"
Aurelia looks at her companion.
"Umm, Geralt."- She mutters- "Don't you think that this is a bit too... extreme?"
Geralt sighs.
"I do, Auri. But it does not matter now."- He says- "The people want me to punish him. I must carry out this sacred task."
Aurelia takes a step forward.
"Then I'll stand beside you."- She mutters- "Redmark killed many people that I loved. I want to be there when he takes his last breath."
Geralt nods and raises his sword in the air.
"Then it is decided!"- He yells- "The emperor shall die!"
The crowd starts to cheer uncontrollably. The sole thought of the emperor's demise fills them with vigor and excitement, let alone the promise that our hero just made.
Geralt turns around and looks at Redmark. His eyes have become completely red. He is shivering uncontrollably. And, worst of all, his eyes are always shifting everywhere. A madman in the face of all the people that he hurt, he was finally crushed by the mistakes that he made in the past and has gone mad.
"Emperor of the tainted lands. Your fate has been decided. However, you could have avoided it. You always had the chance to do so."- He says- "Many times, people like me have been trying to steer you toward the right path. For a long time, we tried to make you a better person. But you never dared to listen. You were always blinded by the dreams of a massive empire, ranging from one ocean to the other. You were hero in the eyes of the people who believed in the old ways, but the new world would have never accepted you as you are no-- "
Marcus shakes his head and looks at Geralt.
"Can we get this over with already?!"- He yells- "I don't have all day! Get going!"
Donovan emerges from the crowd and steps on the stage where the three of them are standing. He approaches Marcus and glares at him. Then, just as suddenly as he has arrived, he raises his hand and slaps him.
"You incompetent sovereign! Shut your mouth and listen for a while!"- He yells- "Geralt is going out of his way to show you the future that would have been yours if you weren't such a heartless monster! So, why don't you stop acting like a tough person and start being reasonable for once?"
Marcus does not say anything. He just looks down and watches as Donovan backs away.
"Sorry for the interruption, Geralt."- Donovan says and smiles- "Please, carry on."
Geralt nods and looks at Marcus again.
"Redmark, you are guilty of much more than you can imagine. All of the world's criminals can never dream to be on your level. You are truly the worst of them, at least for this lifetime."- He says- "Felony. Manslaughter. Treason. Treachery. There are so many crimes that you are responsible for. You can never be forgiven."
Marcus glares at him.
"Can't you take a hint?! I don't want to hear your voice!"- He yells- "Just end this already!"
Aurelia approaches Marcus and punches him in the face. And then, she kicks him in the stomach and watches as he falls on his knees.
"And next time, you might want to show some respect!"- She exclaims.
Then, she looks at Geralt.
"Umm. Excuse me about that, Geralt."- She says- "Did I do something wrong?"
Geralt sighs and looks at her.
"No. You did not."- He says- "Now pull him up. We need to punish him before sundown."
As Aurelia pulls Marcus back up, Geralt grabs him by the handcuffs.
"Your punishment, as chosen by the people that you harmed for so long, is death."- He says- "And it shall be carried right away. No parole. No attempts to bail you out. We will be making this happen immediately."
Geralt and Aurelia take Marcus to a huge pole in the middle of the town square. They grab a large rope and tie him up with it as he continues to watch the crowd that is glaring at him. Seeing a bunch of rebels near his capital is one thing, but being in the mercy of the same do-gooders is a different thing.
"And now, for the final act. The end of the old empire and the birth of a new one."- Geralt says as sparks of flame appear in the palm of his right hand- "Aurelia, are you ready for our final task?"
Aurelia nods.
"I've always been ready."- She says- "Let's send this villain into history."
As Marcus stares frantically at both of them, Aurelia pulls out a torch and watches as Geralt lights it with his fire magic. Then, the two of them light the wooden pole, on fire, officially codemning the person who has been hunted for so long.
And then, Geralt steps back and allows the rest of his allies to do the same. Jared, Donovan, Cyrus, Moritz and Marlon line up to burn the wooden pole once more, making Redmark's impending doom even more certain than it was before.
At first, nothing happens to Marcus. His clothing is set on fire, but he feels nothing. It is almost as if the flames are healing him, not hurting him.
"Hah! Nice try!"- Marcus exclaims- "Is there another trick that you wish to show me? Or is this the entire show?"
Geralt smiles.
"Once again, you are being very blind."- He says- "The flames that are engulfing you are not like the flames that you have seen in the past. They are holy flames, infused with the power of light and meant to bring justice to evil souls such as yourself."
He and Aurelia take a few steps back as Marcus's skin starts to burn.
"Farewell, emperor Redmark."
Now that his entire body is burning, Marcus lets out a defiant scream. He tries to free himself from the pole, but the rope that is holding him in place is too strong. Soon, both he and the pole that he is tied to are burned to a crisp, leaving nothing more than the charred remains of a failed emperor and the remnants of a once-mighty empire. An old age has ended and a new one is about to rise, all thanks to the heroes to put an end to Redmark and his futile dreams.
"Citizens of the world! The emperor of darkness is no more!"- Geralt exclaims- "We did it, and it is all thanks to all of you! Thank you for assisting us during this journey! Now, let us build the new future and bask in the glory of our sacred victory!"
As the crowd begins to cheer, Geralt looks back at Aurelia.
"So, this is it?"- Aurelia asks- "It's truly over?"
Geralt shakes his head.
"Not yet."- He says- "Before we call it a day, I still have something else that must be done. I have been dreaming about it for many years and, now that Redmark is finally gone, I can make it happen."
Aurelia raises her eyebrow.
"What are you talking about?"
Geralt smiles serenely.
"You will see."
----A few hours later, Geralt and his allies stand in the middle of the town square again. Shrouded by white robes, all of them (except for Geralt himself) hold candles and watch the night sky.
"Well, now I see what you mean."- Aurelia says- "But I'm still inclined to ask. Is this a good idea?"
Geralt looks at her.
"When we were still in Blackcrag, I found a mysterious and powerful book. It described a complex ritual that might bring back a loved one who was killed in an unjust way."- He says- "Sure, it might not work. It might even cause terrible consequences. But it is our best chance to awaken the sleeping one, and I am not going to back down."
Aurelia nods.
"Let's make it happen, then."- She says- "You helped me out so many times, so you have my full support. I'm ready to assist you."
Geralt looks down at the recipient of this ritual. The corpse of his beloved sister, Kiara Kaos, lies on a white altar in front of him. It is remarkably well-preserved and the ground around it is covered with white flowers. They do not look like much, but if one is willing to look closer, they will notice that they are glowing faintly.
Although it would seem like this ritual might not work, it is not quite so. Kiara's skin has returned to its normal color, even though she had reanimated years ago. The bullet inside of her head has been carefully removed by Geralt and the damaged tissue has been healed by Aurelia. She is ready for the worst. Or maybe the best. Who knows?
"Dear sister of mine. For many years, I dreamed of seeing your face again. I looked forward to know you better, but the candle of life was extinguished far too early."- Geralt says- "Like a beautiful flower that was about to bloom, you withered away and left this world behind. The dreams that you had when you were a child were swept away by the currents of time. But this is not the end of your existence. Today, we shall make the impossible happen and prove Redmark wrong, all in the name of you."
Then, he looks at Aurelia.
"Whenever you are ready, Auri."
Aurelia nods and smiles.
"Let's do this!"- She exclaims- "I'm ready to meet your sister!"
Geralt nods.
"Very well."- He says- "Then let us begin."
The first part of the ritual requires the participants to clear their minds of all insecurities, as well as all troubles that are clouding their thoughts. They must focus solely on the revival of the recipient and have to forget everything that is on their minds almost immediately. The reason for this is the concentration that is required to perform the ritual. If there is not enough power focused into it, Geralt will not be able to call forth enough magic to make it happen. Thus, the failure will be nearly instant.
Now that everyone has closed their eyes and is ready to chant silently, Geralt looks at Aurelia.
"And now, we must place the sacred items inside the three boxes."- He says- "Remember, Aurelia. Two feathers of an angel to the left and right. A grand feather of a phoenix in the middle. Only then, we will be able to summon the light of salvation."
Aurelia nods.
"Two small feathers to the left and right. A big one in the middle."- She repeats- "I think that I got it, but I won't make any promises. You know how good I am at keeping them... "
Geralt sighs.
"Then let us continue this holy ritual."
Having said that, Geralt transforms into his archangel form. Aurelia leans forward and plucks two feathers from each wing, placing them in the leftmost and rightmost boxes almost immediately. Then, the young hero switches to his phoenix form and watches as Aurelia plucks a giant feather from the top of his head and places it in the middle box- the central source of light for this ritual.
Since the materials have been placed correctly, all three boxes start to glow as their contents unleash their inner power.
"Yes! This is it! Well done, Auri!"- Geralt exclaims as he reverts back to his human form- "Now we just need to focus the energy toward Kiki!"
He looks at her.
"But I still need your help."- He adds- "The ritual needs the help of another competent magic user. Since I do not always trust my own abilities, I want you to stand by my side again. So, are you ready?"
Aurelia smiles.
"Of course I am!"- She exclaims- "Let's do this! Together!"
The two youths channel the mystical energy of the feathers toward Kiara, focusing their thoughts solely on this task- saving the young woman from the clutches of the Afterlife and bringing her back to existence. It is a tough job, but they are strong enough to make it happen.
And yet, despite all of their hard work, nothing happens. Kiara is not opening her eyes. No signs of life can be found inside of her.
"No! This is not right!"- Geralt exclaims- "The ritual was supposed to work! Every single fragment was in place!"
He falls to his knees.
"What did I do wrong?!"
Aurelia stares at the corpse of Kiara, then at Geralt. Something in her mind tells her that there is a missing piece of the puzzle, but she is unable to decide which one it is. So, she keeps wondering, until she finally finds the answer.
"The body needs an engine to fuel it!"- She exclaims- "The gears of life have not been set because there is none!"
Geralt looks up at her.
"Umm."- He says- "What do you mean?"
Aurelia nods.
"In order to summon back the soul from the Afterlife, one must be willing to part ways with something that belongs to their inner self."- She says- "In order to achieve success, one must know what is required. Only then will the soul of the deprived be able to return to our nexus."
Geralt thinks about this for a while. It does not take long for him to realize what he must do.
"That's right! How was I so blind?!"- He exclaims- "A nexus is composed of mystical matter, just like our souls! Kiki is not able to return because her soul has been severed! My research so far has been wrong!"
Then, he rises to his feet and starts to chant again.
"The final object that this ritual needs is a part of a family member's very soul."- He says- "And I shall be the one to give it away."
Everyone gasps.
"But my boy!"- Jared exclaims- "Don't you think that this is too... dangerous?"
Geralt opens his eyes and looks at his grandfather.
"Dangerous or not, I have a duty that must be done."- He says- "I am ready to sell my entire soul to the gods, if it means that my sister will be alive and well!"
Jared nods.
"Very well."- He says- "But do not do anything reckless. We don't want to lose you, too."
Geralt sighs.
"I will be careful."- He says- "I hope."
Then, he closes his eyes and chants along with Aurelia. Soon after he begins, he feels a strong pain in the middle of his chest, but ignores it and keeps going. Just like he said earlier, his duty is to bring his sister back. And he does not want his years of study to be in vain, just like everyone else who decided to join him on this fateful night.
Around the end of the chant, Geralt suddenly falls to his knees. He opens his eyes, now glowing white, as he lets out a pained yell and grabs his head with both of his hands. However, he maintains control of his own body and continues to chant, albeit with a much higher voice.
"This is it, everyone!"- Aurelia exclaims as she notices a faint soul descending from the stars- "Chant with us!"
The people around them close their eyes and stand in a pose that resembles a mass prayer in a church.
"Spiritus Perditi!"
The soul continues to descend.
"Toom tempus venit!"
Soon, it gets much closer to Kiara's body. At the same time, a small part of Geralt's soul, much brighter than the one that is descending, rises and approaches the lifeless body at the same pace.
"Exsurge de cineribus Temporis... "
The two souls are close to descending into their new host.
"Profer lumen aeternum!"
Suddenly, the body of Kiara starts to shine as both souls descend into their new home. A wave of brilliant light washes over everyone as the Heavens bring back one of their most sacred children back to their true home.
As Aurelia pulls Geralt back up, the two of them stare at Kiara, as if expecting something to happen at any minute. And then, much to the surprise of everyone else, Kiara opens her eyes and starts to blink!
"Oh my god!"- Geralt exclaims, exuberant beyond human comprehension- "She is alive! Kiki is alive!"
Kiara blinks a few more times, then slowly stands on her feet. Before the eyes of everyone who is watching her, the body of the young maiden grows up and quickly matches the age of her twin brother- two years older than Geralt himself.
"Ungh. What a strange dream."- She says and looks at Geralt- "Wait a minute. Is that you, little brother? Is this... real?"
Geralt smiles.
"Kiki!"
Then, he runs forward and hugs her.
"I missed you so much! So very much!"- He exclaims- "Please, do not leave me again!"
Kiara smiles.
"I never went anywhere, Geralt."- She says- "I was always here."
She looks at the crowd that has gathered around them and raises her eyebrow.
"What's up with the people around us, though?"- She asks- "Who are they?"
Geralt smiles.
"Kiki, I would like to introduce you to the people who helped me save your life."- He says- "Together, me and them managed to fight back against Redmark and his people. We brought an end to his tyranny and avenged you. And now, we fought against the unfair rules of Life together and we brought you back!"
Kiara looks at them and nods.
"I suppose that I should thank you for everything that you did for my little bro."- She says- "If Geralt is kind enough to trust you all, then I shall gladly do the same."
Then, she looks back at Geralt and smiles.
"All this work has made me very tired, though."- She says- "Can we rest for a while?"
Geralt nods.
"Of course we can, Kiki."- He says- "My oath to you has been completed. Now, we can finally be together."
As the three of them sit down on a nearby bench, the crowd disperses, respectfully leaving them alone.
After talking about the events that happened since Kiara's demise, the young girl gasps at the news of her twin brother's disappearance.
"So, you're saying that Kaiden vanished from this world without a trace?"- She asks her brother- "What happened to him? Was that phoenix really him? Or was it just some kind of byproduct of the residual energy that he emitted during that fight?"
Geralt shakes his head.
"Believe me, I would like to know the same thing. Now that the battle against Redmark's empire is over for good, I will make sure to send an expedition that will explore the remains of the summit and join them to see the results myself."- He says- "Although many people claim that Kai would not have made it out of that mess, I am sure that he did! I still feel his energy out there! I know that he keeps fighting for the good of this world! Our brother never went anywhere- he was just sent on another mission of importance! I am completely certain of it!"
Kiara nods.
"And I completely agree with you, Geralt!"- She exclaims- "Even though Kai's not here with us, I can still feel the power inside of his soul! He must be somewhere out there! We just need to find him!"
Geralt sighs.
"I would love to do that."- He says- "But I made a promise to him. His children are in my care now and I must take care of them while he ventures in the deepest depths of the underworld."
Kiara raises her eyebrow.
"Wait a minute."- She says- "Kai has children?!"
Aurelia smiles.
"Yup! Kaiden fell in love with my older sister, Isabella! Together, the two of them have two beautiful children, although she was never able to see them herself."- She says- "Me and Geralt made a vow that we will raise the children as our own and protect them from the horrors of this world. It's what we promised to both of them."
Kiara sighs.
"I'm so sorry for your loss, miss umm... "
Aurelia raises her eyebrow.
"Hmm?"
Kiara looks at her.
"What is your name?"
Aurelia smiles.
"My name's Aurelia Callisto Moonglow!"- She exclaims- "It's an honor to meet you at last, Miss Kiara!"
Kiara smiles back.
"The pleasure is mine, dear. It's so nice to see that there's someone who truly cares about my little bro."- She says- "If there is enough time in the next few days, can we get to see my nephews? I really want to meet them myself!"
Geralt nods.
"Of course you can!"- He exclaims- "We will be going somewhere else, though, so you can visit us anytime!"
Kiara raises her eyebrow.
"Leaving somewhere?"- She asks- "But you just arrived back!"
Aurelia looks at him.
"Yeah!"- She exclaims- "Where are we even going?"
Geralt sighs.
"Somewhere far away from this place."- He says- "Even though I helped the people establish peace and forge a new future, I can still feel the old resentment inside of them. They do not trust me. Sure, I am the hero who saved them all, but I can never feel at peace with them. I will be travelling to a settlement where I will never see any of them again. Only them, me and my nephews will be able to feel true peace."
Aurelia raises her eyebrow.
"But the people in this city revere you so much! You can't just leave them disappointed in you!"- She exclaims- "Besides, my dad still needs your help! You're his number one helper!"
Geralt sighs.
"It is true. The people of Silverdale have great respect for the one who saved them. But I feel ashamed because I let them all down, more than once. I allowed Kai to enter the dark portal himself. I watched helplessly as Isa died. I did not get to that vile prison in time to save my uncle from Redmark's people. I am a disgrace to this world, and I know it well."- He says- "As for Mr. Moonglow, his list of requests is endless. I am unable to keep up with all of them. Perhaps someone else will take my place."
Aurelia stands up and smiles.
"Then you won't be going alone! Not without the help of a dear woman!"- She exclaims- "I shall stand by your side! I know that, deep inside, you are looking for a strong, firm woman. And I want to be her!"
Geralt smiles.
"Well. Thank you, Aurelia."- He says- "Aren't you going to talk to your dad, though? I am sure that he might want to know first."
Aurelia gasps.
"Oh, right!"- She exclaims- "Daddy's going to lose his mind if I leave without saying goodbye!"
As Aurelia leaves, another person joins them. It is Aaron Dawson- Geralt's ever-faithful ally and classmate.
"Good evening, Geralt! I see that you're finally back from your journey!"- He exclaims- "How did everything go? Can we finally rest from the grand ordeal?"
Geralt smiles.
"It is over, Aaron. We have won the battle and the war."- He says- "Redmark will never trouble us again. And neither will his future successors."
Aaron grins.
"Now those are some great news!"- He exclaims- "Nice work, Geralt! I'm sorry that I wasn't around when you needed me, though. I feel like a torn sack of grain, thrown away in the back of the silo."
Geralt pats him on the shoulder.
"You did a great job at making Redmark's advisor relent."- He says to him- "If it were not for you, I would have had trouble dealing with him myself."
Aaron nods.
"I'm glad that I managed to help!"
He turns to Kiara and raises his eyebrow.
"Ooh!"- He exclaims- "And who is this beautiful woman?"
Kiara blushes a little bit.
"Umm... my name is Kiara! I'm Geralt's big sis!"- She exclaims- "Nice to meet you, Aaron!"
Aaron smiles.
"The pleasure is mine, m'lady."
Then, he leans forward, gently grabs her hand and kisses it, making her blush even more.
"I would love to learn more about you."- He says- "You are a wonderful woman. Maybe even a wonderful combatant, who knows?"
Kiara continues to blush.
"Well, me too!"
Aaron stands up and bows to Geralt.
"But now, I have a lot of work that I still have to do."- He says- "I wish you a safe journey, Geralt. I'll try to visit you as soon as possible."
Geralt nods.
"I would be really honored, my friend."
Aaron nods, smiles and salutes him. Then, he turns around and marches toward the city hall, eager to get his next mission for the day. Or rather, night.
"What a charming boy!"- Kiara exclaims, still blushing- "I think that I might be falling for him!"
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"You are falling for Aaron?"- He says- "This is wonderful! Perhaps you might have a chance with him!"
Kiara smiles.
"I really hope so!"
Geralt looks up at the night sky. Then, he lies down in his sister's lap.
"Umm."- Kiara says- "What are you doing, little bro?"
Geralt looks at her.
"I just want to lie in your arms for a bit."- He says- "The feeling of seeing you whole again is truly spectacular for me."
Kiara smiles.
"I'm just glad that I'm finally here with you, despite the fact that we have so many things to do!"- She exclaims- "I'll thank the gods every day for giving me another chance in life! I love you so much, little Geralt!"
Geralt smiles back.
"I love you too, big sister."
Then, he continues to lie in Kiara's lap. Just like a little child, peaceful and eternally happy.
----One day later.
Geralt approaches the city hall, a large list in his hand. He is greeted by the soldiers inside and welcomed by Governor Moonglow himself. The man eagerly escorts him to his office and watches as he sits down.
"Well. I am finally here, sir."- He says- "Is there something that you want from me?"
Marlon smiles.
"Only that I wanted to ask you for some... consent."
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"Consent?"- He asks- "What for?"
Marlon grins.
"For my only child, of course!"
Geralt looks at him.
"Aurelia?"- He asks- "But she is the woman of the house now! Can't she ask me about it herself?"
Marlon nods.
"Umm, yes. You're right, as always."- He says- "But this time, I fear that the matter at hand is more... romantic."
Geralt looks at him, puzzled.
"Are you implying that she is still at it again?"
Marlon sighs.
"Every day, she's been thinking about the same person. All of her days, she is absorbed in loving the one who brought her back to life."- He says- "I know that this sounds weird, but the person that she asked for... is you."
Geralt nods.
"I knew it."- He says- "So, what does she want this time?"
Marlon grins.
"Well."- He says- "She wants to marry you!"
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"Marry?"- He asks- "But she is not even my girlfriend yet!"
Marlon nods.
"She actually thought about that one."- He says- "So, she wants to be your girlfriend and soon, your wife."
Geralt shakes his head.
"I do not want to get married so early."- He says- "I am still a young hero. I have so many things on my mind."
Marlon shrugs.
"Well, you don't have to marry her immediately. It's your choice, after all."- He says- "But Aurelia asked me for my permission to claim you and make you her boyfriend. How could I refuse to that? You've always been so kind, so polite. If it were not for you, Aurelia could still be a slave, or maybe even worse. And, well, girls can be girls sometimes. If they want something, they'll stop at nothing to get it. So, I decided not to interfere with her love affairs. I just hope that she made the right choice."
Geralt sighs.
"Well, that makes two of us."- He says- "Aurelia is very dear to me, but I know that there are many more boys out there. I do not know why she wants our futures to be connected, but I will do my best to make her happy. I hope."
Marlon grins.
"Splendind! Hearing that you agree with this makes my heart beat excitedly!"- He exclaims- "Now, I'm sure that you still have a lot to do! Don't let me hinder you!"
Geralt stands up and bows.
"I will, sir."- He says- "I will continue to spread the light in this world, in the name of everyone that has been wronged by Redmark and the rest of those who sought to corrupt us all."
As he starts to leave, Marlon calls him back.
"One more thing."- He says and places his hand on his shoulder- "Thank you for being such an ever-faithful ally of ours. From now on, you shall be remembered as the Hero of Silverdale. And soon, you shall be the Hero of the World. I'm certain of that."
Geralt nods.
"Thank you for trusting me, sir."- He says- "Now, if you will excuse me."
Marlon takes a few steps back.
"Of course, my boy."- He says- "Good journey. And remember to visit us sometime."
Geralt sighs.
"I... will do my best."
As Geralt leaves the city hall, he encounters a lone person in the park ahead. At first, she does not look like much. A simple college student, dressed in her respectful university's usual code. But when he looks into her eyes, he feels like he is staring at someone that he has known for an entire lifetime. A kindred soul that has been watching over him for years.
"Excuse me, young man."- She says- "Are you Geralt Kaos?"
Geralt nods.
"Well, that is me. I guess."- He responds- "Is there something that you want? I would be happy to help."
The woman smiles.
"No. This time, I would like to help you."- She says- "My name is Nina Fortner. I came to this city many years ago, searching for my twin brother. And thanks to you, I managed to discover him."
Geralt gasps.
"Oh! You are Nina Fortner?!"- He exclaims- "You look so much more... beautiful now."
Nina continues to smile.
"Many men told me the same thing."- She says- "But your compliment, it truly makes me happy. So, thank you."
She looks at him.
"But I heard that you lost someone important to you back then."- She adds- "Have you managed to come to terms with the past? Did you move on?"
Geralt smiles.
"Actually, you should not worry about that!"- He exclaims- "I recently discovered a powerful white magic that brings people back from the void. Thanks to my superior knowledge in magecraft, I was able to call her soul back from the heavens! She is here now!"
Nina smiles again.
"Is she? Oh, that is so wonderful!"- She exclaims- "If only I could bring our parents back like that... "
Then, she looks up, lost in the clouds for a few seconds.
"Yes. Our parents."- She says- "Oh, how I miss them both."
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"Umm, Miss Nina."- He says- "Are you alright?"
She coughs.
"But enough of that!"- She exclaims- "The reason why I came here... was to look for something."
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"Do you... want your crystal rose back?"- He asks- "I know that it must have been quite dear to you. I do not want to have it if it still is."
Nina blinks a few times.
"What? Oh goodness, no!"- She exclaims- "The crystal rose is the symbol of hope that I gave you years ago! I would never want it back!"
Then, she shakes her head.
"No, dear. That's not it."- She says- "The reason why I came here was because of you. I was looking for you, hoping to see your face again after the war. And I'm glad that I came here in time, because you're here."
She places her hands on Geralt's shoulders and shakes her head. Tears start to fall from her eyes as she stares at the child that she helped during his time of need.
"I... am sorry."- She excuses herself- "I was just remembering the time when you were just a lost child. After your sister died, I felt so sympathetic toward you. I'm glad that the world managed to treat you well."
Geralt smiles.
"And you managed to help it!"
Nina nods.
"Yes. Indeed."
She looks at him.
"Geralt. I know that you're still busy. I know that the world continues to crush you. But I want you to promise me one thing."- She says- "No matter what happens next, don't lose that big spark of hope inside of your heart. The dreams that you have inside of your mind are fueled by the things that you feel. And I... I want you to be happy. I want you to feel joy, to be safe and sound. It doesn't matter where you go, I just want you to remember that you're not alone."
She smiles.
"So. Can you do that for me?"- She says- "You'll get a cookie if you do!"
Geralt smiles back.
"If it means that you will feel at peace, then I shall make a promise."- He says- "It will be our little oath. Our light of redemption. Thanks to our bond, we will always remember each other and admire the things that we have done."
Nina nods.
"Then it's settled! We have a promise!"
Then, she hugs Geralt, as a way to thank him for being honest and kind to her.
"Now that I've finally managed to see you, I have to go back to my hometown."- She says- "University's a hard thing and I'm almost at the end of it. So, farewell. I wish you good luck in... in whatever you want to do! I know that you'll always excel at everything! I just do!"
Geralt smiles.
"It was an honor to see you again, especially after so many long years."- He says- "Thank you, Miss Nina. I will always remember you."
Nina nods.
"Me too, dear!"
Having said that, she hugs Geralt one more time, then picks up her things and prepares to leave Silverdale.
"She gave me so much hope back then. And now, I will do the same for the them."- He says to himself- "I will never forget your advice, miss Nina."
Now that he met the person who helped him so many years ago, Geralt is ready to go. He approaches the Kaos residence to pack his things and say goodbye to his loved ones. 
On the way there, he meets Jett and Cynthia. The two of them are standing on a bench next to the residence, holding each other's hands. Even from a fair distance away, one could tell that Cynthia is blushing.
"Hello, my friends!"- Geralt exclaims- "Is everything going well for you?"
Startled, the two of them look up at Geralt. Then, they shy away from each other, greatly embarassed.
"What makes you think that we... umm... I mean what's your problem. I mean... uhh, what do you want?!"- Cynthia exclaims- "Agh! I'm not good at this."
Geralt smiles.
"It's okay, you two. I will not tell anybody."- He says- "So. Are you actually dating now?"
Jett and Cynthia stare at each other. Then, they blush.
"Umm. It's not what it looks like!"- Jett says- "Me and Cindy are just... studying! Yes!"
Geralt smiles again.
"Are you studying how to understand women?"- He says- "If so, I can help you out with that?"
Jett shakes his head.
"Well, I appreciate it. Maybe I can ask you for advice some other day."- He says- "But not now. Not yet."
Geralt nods.
"This is completely fine. I understand."- He says- "I am just glad to see that the two of you are happy. Nothing more."
Jett stands up and looks at Geralt.
"Hey G."- He says- "Umm. I don't know how to say this, but... thank you. If it were not for you, I never would have met Cindy and her family. And when you left me in here, I got the chance to know everyone better, some of them on a rather personal level."
Cynthia chuckles.
"Heh."- She says- "Personal."
Jett smiles.
"So, thank you for sparing me when I was still angry about my father's demise."- He says- "If another hero happened to come by at that time, I don't think that I would've received the same mercy that you showed."
Geralt nods and smiles back.
"Well, I am glad that it worked out for you. Helping people in need is my thing and I am truly happy that I managed to help you out."- He says- "But what are you going to do now? Mr. Norwood used to own so many properties. How are you going to handle this mess?"
Jett sighs.
"As the sole heir of the Norwood dynasty, I must analyze all of them and deem whether they're worthy of being used by their future proprietor or not."- He says- "Fortunately, it isn't that concerning for me. As soon as me and Cindy get back to my father's mansion in Brigantia, I'm going to hire the most renowned trading master in the region to help me sell them to people who actually need them. My father used to own all of those properties, but he never came to know their value. He never considered giving any of them away to anyone else. Now that he's gone (and I'm kind of glad about it), I'm going to make sure that those mistakes remain in the past. Just like in the world that you're building right now, a new future shall also arise in ours."
The door to the Kaos residence opens. Kiara peeks through the door.
"Come on, little bro!"- She exclaims- "We're almost ready!"
Geralt nods.
"I am on my way!"
As the door closes, Geralt looks back at Jett.
"I think that you should chill out for a little bit though, big hero. You've been fighting for so long that it feels like a century!"- He says- "I heard that you're going somewhere else too, so don't let us stop you. We'll also be on our way. So, I wish you good luck. Maybe we can meet again sometime. Somewhere."
Geralt nods.
"Are you going to be alright, though?"- He asks- "I mean, with all the scandals that arose after your father's demise... "
Jett shakes his head.
"Those people are greedy and want nothing more than to strip me of the clothing on my back. But they're not going to succeed. I'll make sure of that."- He says- "It was good to see you again, Geralt. Even though I've only been your companion for the journey in centaur lands, I'm still glad that I came along. It's been quite pleasant."
Geralt smiles.
"I am also glad that I decided to welcome you in our team, Jett. You seem like a very interesting person. Very good, too."- He says- "So, farewell for now. If you want to visit us, do not be shy. I will make sure that my messengers provide you with the correct address."
Cynthia smiles, as well.
"Yes!"- She exclaims- "We would love to see our little nephews!"
Geralt nods.
"Until then, good luck to both of you."- He says- "The road ahead of us is still long. However, even though we will be separated for a while, I know that we can still make it a bright one."
Jett sighs.
"Just... don't let your guilt corrupt you."- He says- "Okay, big hero?"
Geralt nods.
"I will not allow it."- He says- "I promise."
Jett smiles.
"Then I wish you a good journey."
Having said that, Jett sits back on the bench and continues to make out with Cynthia. They have no fear of Geralt catching them anymore, knowing that their friend is going to keep their secret relationship the way it is. And Geralt himself is glad to see two more people happy and loved.
"My work in this region is finally done."- He says to himself- "It is time to begin a new adventure, somewhere in the broad horizon."
And so, Geralt and his allies managed to defeat the foul emperor known as Marcus Redmark. The end of the corrupted one's empire came not long after. His remaining forces, after hearing about their beloved emperor's defeat, sued for peace and put up the white flag very quickly. Just as Geralt himself had suspected, a nation's gears are being turned by a leader. Remove him from the throne and everything else will easily fall apart.
The infrastructure of the world bloomed after the subsequent defeat of the Old Empire. Esteemed members of the New Empire, as well as Geralt and Aurelia themselves, donated many of the late emperor's finances to people who truly needed them. Many hospitals, orphanages and food factories got the resources that they needed. Guardian agencies are subsidized by the two heroes, capable of defending the world from evil influences. The world becomes a safer and happier place, all thanks to those honorable people.
After another fateful journey, Geralt manages to reach a large coastal town, protected by a dense forest to the south and the vast expanse of ocean to the north. Joined by his ever-faithful Aurelia, his very dear sister Kiara and his two baby nephews, the five of them manage to settle in very easily. It turns out that the locals in the region are quite fond of the Kaos family and are pleased when its youngest and most prominent members decides to move into their city. They get to work and make sure that the Kaos family are protected from the few warriors of Redmark who are still furious about their emperor's demise. Other than a few minor skirmishes in the first few months, they face no other major troubles and their stay in the tropical city is quite pleasant. Their families respect their decision and do not bother them.
Even though Kaiden and Isabella are not there to take care of their infants, Geralt and Aurelia do a wonderful job at being the children's parents instead of them. Under the incredible care and wise guidance of their uncle Geralt and the love shown by their beautiful aunts Aurelia and Kiara, the two boys grow safely in the tropical city where the family settled when they were still infants. William has been quite energetic as a child, and he became very adventurous as a youth, kind, intelligent and helpful like his uncle Geralt. He started off the second decade of his life as a junior adventurer, eventually becoming a professional trainee in the arts of swordsmanship and, as a teenager, was enlisted as a member of Silverdale's royal guard until he became 20 years old, under the tutelage of his respectful grandfather- Marlon Moonglow. Quinn was quite laid back as a child, and he became relatively lazy when he grew up. He is not hardworking like his twin brother and instead prefers to spend his time reading various books, alone in the family household's basement. Their family has mixed signals about their eventual future, but are certain that they are going to achieve something incredible in life. In their own, special ways.
Now that Cynthia has moved away with the love of her life, she offers Cyrus a chance to leave Canonia and join them. However, the young shaman politely refuses his sister's request, deciding that staying in their birthplace and caring for their parents. He continues to serve as the Shaman of Canonia, wishing to remain the guardian of Nature for as long as he lives in this world. Which will be a very, very long time. Thanks to Geralt's hard work, the job of protecting the region becomes much easier. The citizens start listening to the young shaman and his influence becomes much greater. Soon, he becomes the most revered shaman in the world. People come from all around the world to hear the sacred wisdom of the little shaman. His knowledge allows the world to reach even greater heights of evolution, many of them involving the powers of Nature. The world becomes a much better place, and a lot of those achievements are thanks to Cyrus Braveheart.
As for Cynthia herself, she manages to settle into the Norwood mansion with Jett. They manage to form a pretty good couple and their eventual marriage lasts for a very long time. At the age of 18, Cynthia gives birth to her first child- a beautiful son with black hair. The next child, at the age of 22, is a black-haired daughter with green eyes, just like those of Cynthia's beloved brother- Cyrus. Her third and last child is born at the age of 24, a white-haired, blue-eyed son who really reminds her of her own father- Jonathan Braveheart.
Donovan and Sharla continue to rule the kingdom of Goznor, even in Dante's absence. Of course, the young do-gooder is not heartless and visits his own family from time to time. When he stays there for one or two months, the king and queen remind themselves that the kingdom is still being watched over its true king, the one who goes from town to town to solve all of the disasters that bring ruin to the Known Lands. And so, they eventually think that this is the kind of leader Goznor needs, eventually granting a small part of their leadership to their hard-working, travelling son. Dante himself is very happy that his parents still respect him and continues to fight the servants of evil in their name, knowing that they will always be on his side.
Akihiro is pleased that he finally found a hero who is truly pure of heart and that his mission in life is finally done. He tries to allow his own body to collapse, but a sudden force of will stops him. So, he decides to join his favorite student in his new home instead, making sure to teach many new warriors in the ways of purity and why they should respects the balance of the world. Surprisingly, his studies are quite effective. Many warriors of light owe their success to the little man who taught them so much, and Akihiro himself is glad that Geralt showed him how to understand the people around him better. He becomes a prominent figure in the new world and soon becomes a household name, both as an unstoppable guardian of balance and as a patient and wise master. Many people are eager to learn from him, and he is pleased that he is finally being respected, just like he was centuries ago.
For the people that Geralt decided to spare, life is quite hard at first. Nobody wants to trust them due to their low status and they are shunned by society itself. However, as more years pass, people start to realize why Geralt gave them a second chance and decide to do the same. Soon, they become brave heroes, just like Geralt himself. The names of Moritz the Human and Dillon the Centaur are remembered for many years to come as the silent protectors of the Known Lands.
Geralt's interference in the lands of the centaurs allowed the rest of their kind to rise from the ashes and finish what the young hero had started. The rebellious centaurs are easily crushed and Nature regains its sacred balance. The dryads of the woods praise the young hero's name and remember him forevermore, telling all who happen to pass by about the generosity of the child who managed to save the world from an entire empire.
Without their leader, Avernum's Saviors cannot act as a group anymore. However, they are still capable of forming teams in each region of Avernum and continue to travel around the subterranean world. However, unlike the time when they secretly harmed people instead of protecting them, they completely disobey the Baron's orders and go against their group's ways to aid others instead. Many poor people receive food and drink, while the current sovereign of Avernum- King Jared Kaos- does not have to rely on his forces to disperse justice everywhere in the Unknown Lands. The people of Avernum are very thankful for the Saviors' cooperation and the Castle's residents decide to build a statue in their courtyard to honor the hard work of their new leader- Sir Benjamin.
Neither Adam Kaos nor his son are ever heard from again since their disappearance. Geralt attempts to look for both of them, but all of his explorations are rewarded with absolute failures. Nobody knows what happened to them and their fate continues to remain a mystery.
Even though he is alone in Silverdale now, Marlon Moonglow continues to act as the region's governor for many more years to come. Under his leadership, the cities in the region are expanded, the poorest people in the settlements get more than they are due and his builders are able to construct huge status of Geralt, Aurelia and the late members of the Moonglow family, in honor of the people who risked everything to ensure a safer and brighter future for everyone else. After an entire decade of hard work, Marlon finally decides to retire, passing the torch to his only surviving child- Aurelia- who officially becomes Governess Moonglow.
Emela Innanu- the Water Guardian- remains in her respective temple for a long time. The damage that was done to it during Redmark's siege has caused her to lose a lot of her patience and focus most of her attention on preventing future incidents, making her treat her followers less fairly than she did all the time during her career as the Water Guardian. However, she still retains most of her caring attitude and remembers Geralt Kaos and his father in a very kind light. She has a lot of beautiful memories of their adventures inside of her mind and wishes to reunite with both of them someday. Whether that will actually happen or not remains to be seen by Time itself.
In his later years, Geralt manages to achieve a lot of incredible things. His vast knowledge in swordplay and spellcraft allows him to become a revered teacher, travelling everywhere to teach those who are willing to learn about the ways of the hero. Eventually, he also becomes a member of Silverdale's council and, once Aurelia becomes the Governess, Marlon appoints him as the new Governor of the region. Although he is only his daughter's loved one, he becomes his official successor, receiving most of the authority which Marlon himself had as the governor of Silverdale. Under the rule of the two of them, villainy is swiftly purged from the face of the world. Light and Darkness are finally balanced on the ethereal scale and nobody dares to disturb the peace for many years.
There are many stories with happy ending. This is one of them. However, there are many things that still remain uncertain. Will this happy ending last? Is Geralt's future truly going to be a bright one? Will the peace within the Known Lands finally be permanent.
Well, there is no clear answer to that question. And yet, one thing is for sure:
Nobody can unring a bell.
The End.
== Trivia ==
* The chant that revives Kiara in this Part is written in Latin. The (rather rough) translation of it reads: ("Spirit of the lost one!/Your time has come!/Rise from the ashes of Time./And bring forth the eternal Light!")