MLTO C2, P15

This is the fifteenth and last Part of "MLIV:TO" 's second Chapter.
It was released on 21.11.2022.
== Plot ==
The task of importance has finally been completed. Aurelia, the Governor's daughter, has been rescued and taken away from her vile captors. Alais Keymoira got exactly what she deserved for her crimes. Crucial information has been revealed by the surviving papers of the slave trader's household. People are getting more and more inspired to take the fight back to Marcus Redmark and his treacherous Empire.
Now, there is only one thing left to do for Geralt and his allies- to head back home and reunite with the people whom they love the most. Family is not of relative importance when you're getting yourself in a lot of danger, but it is still invaluable and must be respected.
It is time for the soul to head back into its rightful place.
== Story ==
As Geralt and his allies head back into Brigantia, they see what the devastation from earlier has caused. Apparently, Governor Moonglow's warriors have gotten quite vengeful in the past few days and took their anger out on the settlement and its residents. Many streets are soaked with the blood of the fallen, both allies and enemies. The cries of the injured can be heard from the few remaining houses. Somewhere in the distance, they can smell smoke, possibly from the Keymoira Residence that nearly burned down.
From the looks of it, everything went well. Very well.
"I am not the type of person who encourages violence, but I think that this town was a disgrace in the eyes of all sane residents of the world."- Marlon says- "We managed to get rid of it, though. Perhaps the people will thank us for this deed, or maybe they will not trust us as much anymore."
Geralt looks around, surprised by what a small alliance of people is capable of.
"They were bad people, but not all of them were horrible monsters in disguise."- He says- "We could have struck some kind of deal with them and convince them to resist Redmark's rule. The numerous outlaws could have worked in our favor and become vigilantes instead of treacherous fools."
Marlon sighs.
"I wish that I could be as trusting as you."- He says- "But what's done is done. Time machines have not been invented yet, so we can't turn back time and tell them to stop fighting each other."
He looks down.
"But I can still scold my warriors for what they've done here... "
Geralt shakes his head.
"Do not be hard on them. They were just following their orders, even though they had to get a little bit out of line in order to get the job done."- He says- "Every good person wants to see their homelands free of evil. Punishing someone for doing what they thought was right is not always the right decision, you know?"
Marlon sighs.
"Something makes me think that it's not the vengeance that made them lash out. It was me. I pushed them so hard and made them go past their limits."- He says- "I won't punish them, but I do owe them an apology, at the very least."
Geralt nods.
"We will do that once we get home."- He says- "Now, let's proceed. There's a long road left to walk."
As the three of them get further into the ruins, they see someone standing next to a seemingly intact building. Geralt immediately recognizes his brother.
"What are you doing here, Kai? And why do you look so... well?"- He asks him- "I thought that your condition was critical."
Kaiden shakes his head.
"I chose to remain because I sensed a kindred spirit. A familiar soul, lost in the shadows of those ruins."- He responds- "I need to find them, whoever they are."
Geralt nods.
"Then I shall stay with you and hope that our time spent here will be worthwile."
The four of them sit on a fallen log and wait for something interesting to happen. Sometimes, it feels as if it is only their imagination, but they can hear a faint growling coming from somewhere around. Then again, it could just be a sense of paranoia, caused by the adventures that they had to experience during this year.
However, the strange sound does not go away. Instead, it only gets louder and louder with each passing minute. The sound of boots slowly gets more intense. It is almost as if someone is stalking them from the shadows.
Soon, the growling becomes so unbearable that they are forced to stand up. It does not take them long to identify the source of this annoyance.
"What in the world?!"- Geralt exclaims- "It's another reanimated survivor!"
Indeed, a tall undead man shambles toward them as soon as they look up. His skin is still not faintly green, so this means that he must have died and reanimated recently. His eyes are, as expected, a pale shade of yellow, common along most of the reanimated humans. 
And yet, despite his unfortunate predicament, he seems to be rather... intelligent. It is almost as if he retained some of the thoughts that he had in life and arrived at the place where he could possibly reunite with a living loved one. Perhaps this is a distant relative of Kaiden, or maybe even a fallen friend.
"Chuck!"- He exclaims- "No... no... I can't believe it!"
Despite the fact that he's unable to see the creature, he can still tell its origin by the energy that emanates from it. LIke he said earlier, he sensed a kindred spirit inside of him, so this must be why his reaction is so sudden.
Kaiden stands up and approaches the shambling undead.
"Oh god. I'm so sorry that you ended up like this."- He says- "What did thise goons even do to you? How did you get yourself in trouble? Did they... did they force you to act against your own will and punished you for disobeying?"
Geralt approaches his brother and pulls him away.
"Easy now, Kai."- He says- "I recognize him, too. But there is no need to get all dramatic, not in front of someone who is more than capable of killing you."
Kaiden looks at him.
"Geralt! This... this is Chester- our friend from school!"- He exclaims- "The person who always studied for all the tests! He was always so smart and ambitious! Do you remember him?"
Geralt sighs.
"As a matter of fact, I do."- He responds- "However, he never made any sort of incredible impression. He was a quiet boy, to the point when people were suspicious of him. We befriended him, though, and he was happy that we understood what he had become."
Kaiden looks down,
"And now, he's gone... "
Geralt sighs.
"Friends come and go. You can't keep all of them around."- He says- "However, Chester's death has been quite unexpected. Whatever happened to him, he died a hero. And he shall be remembered."
Kaiden shakes his head.
"I only wish that I was a better friend to him."- He says- "He was by best pal. The path to university alienated us and we had to go on separate ways. We became friends, but I didn't know that he would end up like this. It's truly a surprise for me and I don't know what to think of it. Was in a simple accident or a downright murder, caused by some kind of merciless psychopath? I guess that we'll never know."
The undead Chester continues to growl as he tries to get closer. However, Geralt manages to hold him for long enough to prevent him from doing anything else. And yet , his defenses do not last for very long, as the creature sets his sights on the young hero and tries to bite him.
"I know that you like to get all wise and thoughtful at times, but this is not the right one."- He says to Kaiden- "We either leave him where he is or put him out of this misery. There is no other way, Kai."
Kaiden stares in Chester's direction. At first, he is conflicted whether to kill or leave, so he's left in a situation similar to that of his brother. However, once he hears his yell, he decides that it is for the best to eradicate this potential danger while it is still young.
Drawing his blade, he approaches the undead, wipes a tear from his right eye, and shakes his head.
"Chet. It... it's my fault. I should've listened to you and cherished our friendship while I still had the chance. Finding friends is not easy and losing them is much worse. And today, I feel like I lost someone that I've known for all my life."- He says- "I'm aware that you were always the type of guy to be a stranger to everyone. You never were much of a talker and prefered to spend time with your books than with your friends. But I still considered you my pal, because you were the only friend who truly understood me and cheered me on, even when I was down. But now, you're gone. You're probably far away from our little world. And it's... it's time for me to move on."
As he speaks, the undead Chester growls and attempts to attack him. However, he's held in place by Geralt, allowing his brother to finish him off.
"Kai!"- Geralt exclaims- "Hurry up, please! I can't hold him still for much longer!"
Kaiden sighs.
"And may our eternal creator have mercy upon your soul."- He adds- "Farewell, brother of mine. See you on the other side."
Having said that, he raises his blade and chops Chester's head. However, he keeps hearing his growling, so he chops him again.
On the third chop, his struggles finally come to a halt as he slumps to the ground and dies for good, his soul no longer chained to this world by his undead self. However, Kaiden is not satisfied enough. He wanted to see his friend alive, not dead, and the fact that he is gone pains him greatly.
Saddened by the loss of a loyal companion, he turns to Geralt and sighs.
"It's over. We've done it."- He says to him- "My friend can rest in peace, at long last."
Geralt nods.
"And there is nothing left to keep us in this horrible place."
Kaiden looks down.
"Except him."
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"You want to bury him, don't you?"
Kaiden sighs.
"I feel like Goznor would be the perfect resting place for him."- He says- "Can we take him there?"
Geralt nods.
"Of course."- He responds- "There are four of us now, so we should be able to carry him out."
Jared raises his eyebrow.
"But Geralt."- He says- "You do remember that Kaiden is blind, right?"
Kaiden sighs.
"I may have lost my eyesight, but I will never lose my sense of honor."- He says- "Come on, everyone. It's time to go home and pay our tributes to the man who gave his own life away for us to win."
After going to Goznor to bury Chester's corpse, Geralt and his allies reunite with his adoptive mother and Donovan, filling them up on the details.
"Well, it sounds like you prevented a large scale operation from happening in Brigantia."- Donovan says- "It's true that the destruction of their town may cause some problems for our relationship, but there's no need to worry about that. You've already done your part, so I shall do the rest and attempt to maintain good relations."
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"You sound like some kind of an ambitious diplomat, Your Majesty."
Donovan chuckes.
"Yes. Yes, I do."- He responds- "And well, that's what I am. All my life, I've been trying to spare others and make them our friends. Even though I haven't always succeeded, it's been my kind of thing, just like saving the world and being a hero is yours. And I'm happy with how our common situation managed to turn out."
Sharla approaches our heroes and smiles.
"You've done well, dears."- She says to them- "Now go ahead and take a good break inside our kingdom. Goznor has many places of interest and I'm sure that you would love to see them all."
Geralt shakes his head.
"I truly appreciate this offer, and I'm saying it on behalf of all of my allies, as well."- He says to her- "Unfortunately, we have important business elsewhere and we cannot stall for time."
Donovan raises his eyebrow.
"Is it about Aurelia- the Governor's daughter?"- He asks- "Are you worried about her?"
Geralt sighs.
"Well, I left her in the hands of the rest of our allies, so I am unsure if she made it to Silverdale."- He says- "We have to depart as soon as possible."
Marlon nods.
"I share the boy's feelings."- He adds- "My daughter is still not out of danger yet. We must hurry and protect her, because she would be vulnerable otherwise."
Donovan nods.
"I shall arange a trade between our kingdom and one of the merchant caravans within our capital. On your behalf, of course."- He says- "In a few hours, you shall receive your ride. Does that sound good for you?"
Geralt nods.
"Of course."
Amber takes a step forward.
"If you want to go back, then I want to do the same."- She says- "Goznor is a nice place, but it's nothing quite like home. Besides, I already managed to help His and Her majesty, so I'm sure that they could still do well without me."
Donovan smiles.
"It was a pleasure to have someone as devoted and noble as you, dear Amber."- He says and hugs her- "Make sure to say hello to the lucky little maiden from me once you get home. I would love to meet her in person, someday."
Amber smiles.
"I'll miss you, Donovan."
Donovan nods.
"Me too, my friend."
The five of them wait in the throne room while Donovan goes outside. Sharla goes to the kitchen and makes them tea, hoping to ease their minds and make them feel at home for as long as they can stay. 
When the deal is finally made, Geralt looks at a nearby window. He sees a large caravan, waiting for them outside, while the rest of his friends and family notice Donovan return from his trip.
"Well, the caravan masters judged which route would be the best for you. There's still a lot of outlaws out there and it's clear that many of them are angry about the destruction of Brigantia."- He says- "Your journey will be a dangerous one, but I'm sure that the guards would do very well."
He smiles.
"It has been an honor to work with you. I mean it."- He says- "Me and Sharla hope that you can come back soon. We must work together to overthrow Redmark's tyrannical rule and we can't succeed if we are divided by our own desires."
Geralt nods.
"I give you my word, Your Majesty, that we shall join you again as soon as we get the chance."- He says- "My father trusted you long ago, so I shall do the same. Together, we will defeat the darkness."
Donovan nods and turns to Marlon.
"By the way, Mr. Moonglow. Aurelia came by and asked me to give you this little bracelet."- He says- "She mentioned that it has some sort of significance inside of your family, so I figured that you might want to see it."
He presents him with the same bracelet that he tried to give to Aurelia about a week ago. Once he reverently takes it in his hands, he sees a small note on top of its surface and reads it.
"The material world doesn't matter. Trinkets like those don't matter to me anymore."- It says- "Our love is not determined by money. Kindness and understanding are what truly mater. I shall eagerly await your return, daddy."
Marlon wipes a tear from his eye. Seeing that Aurelia cares about him more than her family's traditions makes him feel very happy.
"My little girl. She... she's changed so much."- He says- "I am the happiest father in the world."
Geralt smiles.
"That is very good for you, Mr. Moonglow."
Marlon looks at the caravan and sighs.
"But our ride cannot be prolonged for more than it already was."- He says- "Come on, everyone. It's time to go home."
The five of them depart on the caravan and head toward the kingdom of Silverdale. While there are a few outlaws that try to steal their supplies, the journey is otherwise pretty pleasant and it doesn't take a very long time for them to reach their goal.
Once there, Jared and Amber prepare to leave on their own. They take Kaiden with them and ask Geralt and Marlon if they want to join them. However, the two refuse, wanting to see if Aurelia did make it back, so they bid them farewell and continue alone.
"You know what, Mr. Moonglow?"- Geralt says- "Ever since I met your daughter for the first time, I have always admired her for many things. She has always been so kind, so innocent. Her genuine care for others has inspired me to free her from the chains of darkness and that is why I'm so glad that, wherever she may be, she is free to speak and to think."
Marlon nods.
"We're on the same page here, kiddo."- He says- "Aurelia has been a gentle soul ever since she was a little child. Even now, I can still feel that she hasn't changed. That wretched slave trader tried to break her down, but she never succeeded. My daughter always shined her way through the valleys of despair and this is a perfect example of that."
He smiles sadly.
"Her mother has been looking for her even harder than me, though."- He admits- "When she finally comes home, I'm sure that she would be thrilled to see her one last time."
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"One... last time?"
Marlon sighs.
"You'll understand it when you see it."- He says- "Come on. We've got to get to our household with Aurelia. I fear that the love of my life doesn't have much time left and I want to do my best to make her greatest dream to come true."
Geralt nods.
"If this is what your wife wants, Mr. Moonglow, then I would be happy to help."- He says- "Let's find your daughter and bring her back where she belongs."
Geralt and Marlon look around the capital, eventually reuniting with Emela, who tells them that Aurelia has been worried about them. They enter the building she guides them to and see that she has been waiting for them to return. As a response to their arrival, Aurelia leaps to her feet and hugs both her father and Geralt, showing just how much she missed them.
"Aurelia, my dearest."- Marlon says to her- "I... I'm sorry to say, but we must head home as soon as possible. Your mother, she... "
Aurelia sighs.
"It's okay, daddy. I know how it is."- She says- "Emela told me everything about my mother. I'm aware that she's in a critical condition and that she's close to leaving us."
Marlon raises his eyebrow.
"Emela?"- He asks- "But how did she know?"
Geralt sighs.
"Your wife's condition is no secret to most people, sir. But it was to Aurelia."- He says to him- "Miss Emela did us a kindness by revealing it to her. I am not sure if I could have done the same and I am sure that you were too heartbroken to speak about it. So, let's just get there and ask no questions along the way."
Marlon nods.
"I... I understand."- He says- "Our journey's not over yet, then. The final path that we must cross... is the one that leads to our roots."
Geralt looks back at Emela, who has just joined them in the building.
"Can you take care of everything while we're absent, Miss Emela?"- He asks her- "I am afraid that this might take a little longer than expected."
Emela nods.
"Sure thing, dear. No problem."- She responds- "How long will you be with Aurelia's family, if you don't mind me asking?"
Geralt shrugs.
"Oh, maybe for an hour or two."- He says- "I still have to join my brother and stand by his side in the hospital, though, so I have an even busier day ahead of me."
Emela smiles.
"Take as much time as you'd like, dear. It's all at your disposal, after all."- She says- "Don't worry about us. We'll hold our ground against Redmark's fools. As long as you're somewhere in this world, we'll be motivated to fight back. So, on the behalf of everyone else, I wish you three a safe journey."
Geralt nods and bids farewell to Miss Emela, hugging her as she hugs him back. Then, he joins his new companions and leaves her alone in the capital.
It takes a full hour to depart from the street and travel to the household of Mr. Moonglow and his family, but they get there soon enough. When they finally do, Geralt approaches the giant doors that serve as the entrance to the entire complex and takes a look at them. They are made of sturdy hardwood and they cannot be knocked down with ease. Even the strongest men in the Wild West would struggle to handle this absolute monstrosity.
"Mr. Moonglow?"- He says and turns around- "May I do this for you?"
Marlon smiles and nods.
"Go right ahead!"- He exclaims- "You are our guest, after all!"
Hearing that Marlon gave him his approval, Geralt pushes the doors open and enters the household first. There, he immediately notices that it is rather cold. No wood has been left burning in the expensive-looking fireplace. The gorgeous shelves are dusty and there are very few glasses left on top of them. The ornate guest table looks like it hasn't been used for what seems like entire years and it seems like it needs to be repaired soon.
In other words, the place feels very lifeless. It is almost as if the light escaped from this sacred land of peace and prosperity.
"Umm. Mr. Moonglow?"- Geralt says- "I mean no offense, but this place looks like a ghost house."
Marlon sighs and looks down.
"I know, my boy. I know."- He responds- "But we can't feel the joy of having the place to ourselves without any happiness, right?"
He shakes his head.
"And it's been missing for years."
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"But what could bring so much happiness that its absence makes this place feel like a desolate wasteland?"
Marlon stares at a large, beautiful painting on a nearby wall and points at it.
"She."- He says- "She's the reason for everything good that's ever happened to me."
Geralt takes a few steps forward and looks at the picture. He sees a younger Marlon Moonglow, hugging his little daughter and a mysterious woman that he assumes to be Marlon's wife. She seems to be so young and lively. Her eyes radiate kindness that make everyone around her feel happy and loved. 
Yes. She is just like a certain person in Geralt's veyr own life. His own shining beacon of home. Looking at this woman makes him feel like he is staring at her instead,
"They look so similar that they could overlap each other."- He mutters- "This woman... she bears such a familiar resemblance."
Aurelia raises her eyebrow.
"Geralt?"- She says- "What did you see? It's just my mommy, right?"
Geralt looks at her, surprised.
"Umm, it is nothing!"- He exclaims- "I just had a... wishful thinking! Of the past that I miss so much!"
Marlon sighs.
"Well, I think that all of us have wishful thinkings. For both the past and the future, but also the present times- our current world."- He says- "Anyway, I'm afraid that we can't spend any time pondering about what we used to be. My wife is in her room and I'm sure that she's already heard the news. We need to see her as soon as possible."
Geralt nods.
"And that is exactly what will be done."- He says- "Your wife is sick, Mr. Moonglow. Let's give her the hope and salvation that she completely deserves."
The three of them go upstairs, noticing the lack of any butlers as they pass through the many halls of the household.
"When Aurelia's mother fell sick, I began feeling depressed. Most of our butlers were dismissed by that time, so I spent no effort to hire more of them. I cleaned the place all by myself, but I didn't do a very good job."- He says- "Perhaps, now that my little sunshine is back home, this place can shine bright once again."
Aurelia smiles.
"I'll do my best!"
Marlon smiles back,
"I'm sure that you will, my dearest."
Five minutes later, they finally reach the room where Mrs. Moonglow is staying. She is laying on the bed, so weakened that she's unable to get up and look at the visitors. And yet, she is able to hear Marlon's voice, giving her a little bit of energy.
"Honey? Is that you?"- She asks- "Where were you? This place was getting so... lonely."
Marlon looks at her.
"Didn't the people I sent bring you the food and drinks that you needed?"
The woman sighs.
"They did. They were so kind to me and they even offered to take me for a little walk."- She says- "But the feeling was not the same. I felt so betrayed when you left me, even for a little bit."
Marlon holds his wife's hand and looks down.
"I am so sorry, my love."- He says- "It won't happen again, I promise. I'm here for you until the end."
The woman stays unresponsive for a few seconds.
"Lydia, please say something."- Marlon continues- "You're worrying me."
Lydia quickly looks up.
"Did you find what we sought for so long?"- She asks him- "Is she still alive?"
Marlon grins, his eyes beaming with happiness and excitement.
"Well, I would like you to see it for yourself!"- He exclaims- "Love of my life! Meet the other love of my life- our little girl!"
Lydia looks up surprised. She tries to confirm what Marlon just said to her and it doesn't take long for that to happen. 
When she sees her daughter, she bursts into tears. The joy of seeing her daughter safe and sound after so many years is far too much for her little heart and she nearly faints. However, she soon musters the strength to stay awake for as long as she can.
"So they didn't lie! She really did make it!"- She exclaims- "Oh, my little Aurelia! Come to me! I've missed you for so long!"
She hurries out of bed and nearly falls down, but Marlon and Aurelia manage to hold her up.
"I'm the happiest mama in the whole world!"- She exclaims- "And to think that I nearly gave up!"
She hugs her daughter and smiles as she looks at her. Yes, she is real. Her smile is genuine. And she is back where she belongs, among her loving family.
"My eyes are not deceiving me. You are real, love."- She says to her- "You still have the same eyes of your daddy. Such a brilliant shade of emerald green. Such a gorgeous smile. Oh, I could have given everything I still had to spend another day with you. And now, you're here."
She lies back on the bed, still smiling.
"My dream's finally come true."- She says- "I can finally accept it."
Aurelia looks at her.
"Accept what, mommy?"- She asks- "What is happening to you?"
Lydia looks down at herself and sighs.
"I never told you anything. Did I, love?"- She says- "Well, it all started when you were taken away by those vagabonds. We looked and we looked, hoping to save you before they tainted your little mind. But we were growing impatient and I felt my strength slowly leave me. One day, I felt an inexplainable feeling of dread. I tried to pretend that it was just a nightmare, but it was far from it."
She looks at her sadly.
"Aurelia, honey."- She says- "I... I became sick when you were forced to leave us. I became so depressed that I nearly let myself perish immediately. This sickness is fatal for me and I'm lucky to have survived for as long as I have. But your father, this wonderful saint of a man, he always stood beside me. He spent days and nights looking for the little thing that was whisked away from us. And he always told me that he'll keep my hope intact. I... I'm glad that he never gave up."
Marlon nods.
"Perhaps you want to talk to your daughter for a while."- He says to her- "Go ahead, then. It's your chance to tell her what you've always been telling me."
As he and Geralt prepare to leave them alone, Lydia looms up and calls out for her husband.
"No, honey,"- She says- "I need you to stay here. I missed you, too."
Marlon sighs.
"Of course, my queen."
He approaches her and stands by her side.
"And you. You must be a friend of my family."- She says to Geralt- "Please, join us for a while. We would love to hear your story."
Geralt sighs and shakes his head.
"I am very sorry, miss."- He says- "I have something important that it must be done. I only had time to get your family here safe and sound, so I'm afraid that I must take my leave."
He turns around.
"I will join you again soon, though!"
Having said that, he leaves the household and heads toward the hospital where Kaiden is staying.
"What a shy boy."- Lydia says- "Has he always been this way?"
Marlon sighs.
"I've known his family for quite a while, but I never knew them on a personal level."- He says- "I know as much as you do."
Lydia nods.
"And yet, I can't help but realize that he looks so similar to and old friend of mine. She had such gorgeous blue eyes, such an innocent smile on her face. Her voice was like a melody, created by the angels of Heaven themselves."- She says- "And this boy, he looked exactly like her.'
Marlon raises his eyebrow.
"A possible relative?"
Lydia shrugs.
"Well."- She says- "It will take time for me to remember, but we shall see."
Geralt takes his time off to join Kaiden in the hospital. He stays by his brother's side as the doctors arrive and refuses to go even after they politely tell him to leave. Eventually, they decide to let him stay since he is Kaiden's brother and continue to check out the young man's eyes.
"Hmm. Yes."- One of them says- "It seems like this one's had his eyes blinded by magical energy."
Geralt gasps.
"Is it reversible?!"
The doctors sigh.
"Perhaps. There's no reason to be pessimistic yet."- He says- "But it will take time to find the true cure for this affliction, so you might as well continue without him."
Geralt looks at his brother.
"Kai, I am so sorry that I dragged you into that mess. I feel guilty for insulting you so much."- He says- "Can you ever forgive me for my mistakes?"
Kaiden smiles.
"Forgive you? For what?"- He asks- "I haven't blamed you for anything at all!"
Geralt looks at him.
"But you looked so sad when we were leaving."- He says- "You probably felt betrayed that we abandoned you and you are trying to hide it because you don't want to hurt my feelings. I know that I hurt you and nothing I ever do in the future will ever undo it."
Kaiden continues to smile.
"Remember what Kia said when were feeling down about something? That we should never be sorry about something that didn't depend on us? Well, what we did out there was an act of justice, but also a test of pure wits and survivalism. Maxwell Norwood was an evil man and deserved even worse, but we gave him a punishment that he'll never forget."- He says- "Despite the fact that we were distanced from each other, we still worked together. You killed all of the trash talkers downstairs while I took care of the one who was hiring scum like them. So, it was a win-win situation and you shouldn't be sorry."
Geralt nods.
"But what happens now?"- He asks him- "You risked your life and willingly stepped into the fire. You suffer because of me. Are you sure that you can make it on your own?"
Kaiden raises his eyebrow.
"You think that I'm on my own."- He says and smiles- "Not quite, little bro. You see, I still have you and Kia. Mom and dad are also here, and so are grandma and grandpa. All of our friend still cheer us on. We've got the power to keep living our lives and I'll take this chance, in the name of all that we hold sacred. And I hope that you'll do the same and forget what happened out there."
Geralt shakes his head.
"It will be hard."- He admits- "Very hard."
Kaiden sighs.
"Yeah. I know it."- He responds- "But we've still got each other. And when we do, no force of evil in this world shall tear us apart. We're strong until the end."
He places his hand on Geralt's shoulder and smiles.
"Make sure to say hi to our family when you get back, okay?"- He says- "I'll be here if you need me."
Geralt feels the tears forming in his eyes. He leans forward and hugs his brother.
"I am so glad that we saved you, Kai!"- He exclaims- "You mean so much to me! I will never lose you!"
The doctors are pleased by this sudden show of brotherly attitude. They take a few steps back and watch them, smiling.
"And I would never let you go either, Geralt."- He says to him- "Now go out there and show them all who's the real boss!"
Geralt nods, tears still falling from his eyes.
"Yes! Yes, I will!"- He exclaims- "Farewell, Kai! I will be back!"
Kaiden smiles.
"I shall eagerly await your return with open arms."
Geralt clearly doesn't want to leave his brother alone, but he made a promise that he wants to keep. He is a man of his word, so he leaves for the Moonglow Residence as soon as he bids farewell to his big brother.
When he joins the Moonglow family back in their bedroom, he sees that Lydia is still lying on the bed. However, she has grown much weaker in the past hour and her skin has grown very pale. Her eyes have also turned red from all the tears of joy that she let out. It is almost as if she is an actual vampire, minus the sharp teeth and insatiable thirst for the blood of humankind.
And yet, she still has enough energy to look up and wave Geralt forward.
"Ah. You've returned, at long last."- She says weakly- "My daughter spoke very highly of your group and shared many wonderful things about you."
She smiles.
"I never thought that I would ever meet the son of my beloved friend Aalia."- She continues- "Take a seat, darling. You're as much of a member of this family as we are."
Marlon looks at Geralt.
"So. How is your brother? Is he doing well?"- He asks him- "I wanted to visit him myself, but you know. Family is far more important to me."
Geralt smiles.
"Kai is in perfect condition."- He says- "Perhaps a little bruised, but otherwise unharmed. The doctors said that he will live."
Of course, that's not exactly what they said. But it's good to have hope about something, right?"
"Well, that's very good to hear."- Marlon says- "My wife wanted to see you, though. Talk to you about, well, a lot of things."
Geralt nods.
"And I am eager to listen to what she has to say."
Lydia looks up at Geralt as he sits next to her.
"You're such a beautiful child, darling. Your eyes look like those of an actual angel."- She says- "Tell me, though. Did you know that your beloved mommy was secretly a valkyrie?"
Geralt gasps.
"A... valkyrie?!"- He asks- "But I never knew anything about that!"
Lydia nods.
"Of course you didn't."- She responds- "You were so young when the poor woman died. She was such a cheerful little flower. Such a fragnant smell in the sea of despair. Losing her was quite hard for myself and I did cry a lot. She was a very good friend of mine."
Geralt looks down.
"I miss her a lot."- He admits- "Every day, I keep pondering about how the world would have looked like if she was here with us. I felt such an insurmountable amount of guilt that I felt like I was the problem. I tried to move on, but it's always so hard, especially when the person that I have lost is a parent of mine."
Lydia smiles.
"Lia would've been so happy to see her son grow into a big and strong hero, even though he still so young and fragile."- She says- "The horrors of this world have hardened you, darling. But you're still capable of feeling love, of caring about others. Don't let them stop you from being yourself. You're a wonderful human being."
Marlon clears his throat.
"I'm sorry to interrupt, dearest, but you said that you wanted to look into Geralt's soul earlier."- He says to her- "Are you still willing to do that?"
Lydia gasps.
"Oh! Of course! I need to see if the boy's soul resonates with that of his mother!"- She exclaims and weakly stands up- "Stand still, darling! This is only going to hurt a bit!"
As Lydia pries into Geralt's mind and soul for a little while, Geralt feels rather confused. He has never been checked in such a strange manner and it is definitely quite an experience for him.
"And, we're done!"- Lydia exclaims- "You can let your guard down now!"
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"Umm."- He says- "Ouch?"
Aurelia giggles.
"That was so cute! His face was so innocent, so peaceful!"- She exclaims- "Let's do it again!"
Lydia smiles.
"Now now, dear, please don't be rude to our honored guest,"- She says- "He's the son of my highschool friend, after all."
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"Highschool friend?"- He asks- "You knew my mother when you were at school?"
Lydia smiles.
"Oh yes! That time!"- She exclaims- "Your mommy was a first-year student in the school where I studied. Everyone thought that she was quite the loner and ignored her, but I saw something interesting inside of her. A heart of goodness, beating for everyone in the world."
Marlon nods.
"Just like the time when I met Adam at the Heroes' Guild for the first time."- He says- "He was always the bravest of us, the most intelligent and analytical. His mind was as sharp as his blade and his determination was unmatched by anything and anyone."
Geralt turns to him, shocked and thrilled at the same time.
"You knew my father?!"
Marlon laughs heartily.
"Know your father?"- He says- "My boy! I was one of his fellow comrades! It was such an honor to fight alongside that legend of a man while he was there! Everyone regarded him as a true hero and he was like an idol for me!"
He smiles.
"Not as much as your grandpa, though!"
Lydia sighs.
"Anyway, let me finish my story."- She says- "Aalia was on her way to perfecting her skill in healing. She was always shy about speaking with others, but was always there to help them out when they needed help. Everyone else started to feel mutual respect for her. And then, one lucky day, I became your mommy's partner for a large, end-of-the-year project that our class was taking. Aalia did not trust me a lot, at first, but she eventually warmed up and our project worked like a charm. We managed to get one of the highest scores in the school and continued to work together as a team. Together, we earned a lot of medals, a lot of praises. We were always the best of the best, even though we never felt like it. But then, just as we started having fun, school was over. Aalia had to go back to her husband and her children and I went out into the world where I met my beloved Marlon. And now, she's gone from this world. However, she left a legacy behind. A legacy that will carry her name for as long as it lasts. Which, if I may dare to assume, shall be forever."
Geralt looks down.
"I... wish I had more time to spend with her."- He says- "Mama has always been one of the people who motivated me the most. Her presence has always been so warm, so bright and clear. The reason why I am here is because they pulled me forward and gave me advice when I needed it. I have always tried to keep their memory alive and I am glad that others remember them in such a good light."
Lydia smiles.
"As for you, my little darling. I've heard so many stories about the young Chosen, the little warrior of the white flame whose destiny is to save the world from something horrible."- She says- "I've listened to the good deeds that you've done and admired you for your bravery. I thought that my daughter would love to know more about you herself, so I wanted to tell her when she came back to us.'
She nods.
"And I didn't expect that it would be you who saved her from that fire."- She says- "Despite all of my fears, you proved me wrong. You made a desperate mother the happiest parent on the entire planet and the entire family has you to thank."
She gently holds his hand.
"But the fight is not over yet. My daughter has yet to recover from the horrors that she faced out there."- She says- "I would never dare to doubt my dear husband's skills, but he's going to get very sad once I'm gone. So, I want you to take care of my little Aurelia. Treat her as if she were your best friend. Give her all of the love and faith that I failed to give her myself. Perhaps you might even restore her to the cheerful, loving girl that she once was."
Geralt respectfully bows his head down.
"In the name of everyone that truly matters to me, I give you my word that I shall make your daughter feel like a queen."- He says- "I may not be the knight in shining armor that she has been looking for, but I will still try to be one. I shall be by her side and together, we shall conquer our fears and stay on top of the world!"
Aurelia is overjoyed to hear that Geralt cares about her as much as she does. She jumps to her feet and hugs him. 
"Mommy, I want you to mark my words!"- She exclaims- "This boy may not look like much, but I shall make him mine someday! We shall be together forever!"
Geralt blushes.
"A-Aurelia!"- He exclaims- "But we barely met!"
Aurelia continues to hug him.
"I know."- She says and smiles- "It's my way of saying thank you. Take it or leave it.'
Geralt shrugs.
"Young ladies are always so weird."- He says to Marlon.
Marlon smiles.
"You'll get to know her better soon!"- He exclaims- "I'm sure that you'll get along very well!"
Moments later, Lydia looks down at her chest. Her heart is starting to beat much slower and her breathing becomes somewhat raspy. Her eyes are starting to close. It is clear that those are her last minutes and that she has enjoyed all of the time with her loved ones that she has left.
"Well, Aurelia. I trust your judgement."- She says- "I hope that you find yourself a truly devoted husband before your twenties!"
Aurelia nods.
"I will, mommy!"- She exclaims- "Just you wait and see!"
Lydia smiles.
"Oh. I will, dear."- She says weakly- "I shall be watching you from above. And when I look at you, I will smile from the Heavens. Admire your beauty and grace as I reminisce our happiest moments." 
She looks down at herself and coughs a little bit more.
"Well, this is it. My last moments have arrived."- She says- "At last, I can rest and be free from the chains that have been dragging me down for so long."
She looks up at Geralt and Aurelia, seeing the former in a way only a mother could and love him like an actual parent. It is clear that she sees the boy as her own child and deeply regrets the fact that she will not be there to witness the blossoming love between him and her daughter.
"I leave this world now. Thank you, my dearest human beings. You made my life into an intricate carving of harmony and perfection. Every moment that I spent with you, I always saw it as a blessing. It was always as if a choir of angels was smiling down on me, just like I will soon smile down on you."- She says- "But fear not! Even when I am far away, I shall never be far. Every moment that I spend shall be to think of you. My hopes and dreams shall be restored and my faith in the world shall be stronger than ever."
She smiles.
"My legacy shall burn strong. Our family shall be the shining ray of hope that everyone needs."- He says- "Together with young heroes such as Geralt, they shall fight for the good of this world. And I am certain that they'll do very well!"
Her eyes start to close just as she looks at the children.
"God bless you all, children of faith."
Then, she finally closes her eyes, passing away peacefully. Surrounded by her loved ones, this gentle and kind woman left this world behind, almost as if she never said a thing. And now, she is gone forever, never to return on this mortal plane.
Seeing that the woman who praised him and his mother so much is no longer among them, Geralt feels the tears falling from his eyes. He buries his head within the palms of his hands and starts to cry.
"Umm. Geralt?"- Marlon says quietly as Aurelia starts to cry as well- "I understand that you cared about my wife, but why are you crying so much?"
Geralt looks up. Tears continue to fall from his eyes as he speaks.
"Your wife, she looked just like my mother. So gentle. So kind. So compassionate."- She says- "Such a loving soul, trapped in a paradox of madness and uncertainty. Why... why would I not miss her? She was almost like a mother to me."
Marlon looks down.
"Yes."- He says- "Just like me- the poor, useless parent that I am."
As the three of them continue to grieve for Lydia, Marlon looks up. He reaches for his late wife's hand and inspects it.
"The process has begun."- He says- "She's turning. Fast."
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"Should we... do this for you?"
Marlon shakes his head.
"I wouldn't object. I don't think that I could do this and my daughter's too weak to act."- He says- "However, I taught her a special technique to put a person down without injuring the brain. And I want to teach it to you, in case you need it in the future."
He looks up at his daughter.
"Aurelia, my dearest."- He says to her- "Could you do your old man a favor and take care of this, umm, predicament?"
Aurelia nods.
"You got it, dad."
Tired of pretending that she is just an innocent girl anymore, Aurelia leans forward and touches her dead mother's forehead. She closes her eyes and mutters a few words. Soon, her hands start to glow white, as some of her energy enters and infuses Lydia's mind.
Soon, the entire reanimation system shuts down. Lydia's mind stops functioning and her skin turns back to normal. To Geralt, this is truly a miracle of magic that scientists will never be able to comprehend.
"When a person's mind is still active after their demise, they eventually develop murderous intentions and wake up as strange, alien beings. However, me and my people found a way to counter that process of darkening with a power of our own."- Marlon says- "This process of purification is performed with nothing more than a simple incantation that eases the mind and forces it to shut down the remaining stimuli, allowing the person in question to rest in peace forever."
Geralt nods.
"I think that I understood it."- He says- "I will take note of it and hope that I can use it myself in the future."
Marlon stands up and sighs.
"Anyway, your work here is done. I will make sure that you and your family are paid for the kindness that you've done for us."- He says- "If there's nothing else keeping you here, you're free to go on your way. We... would never dare to stop you, anyway."
Aurelia looks down.
"Thank you for staying by our side in our saddest moment, Geralt."- She says to him- "I'll never forget what you did for us."
Geralt shakes his head.
"I hate to say this, but I... I must stay here for now."- He says- "Despite being little more than a stranger, Mrs. Moonglow still meant a lot to me. And I... want to participate in her burial. Say some nice words about her. I want to support you once again, if you could allow me to do so."
Aurelia approaches Geralt and hugs him. Marlon places his hand on his shoulder and smiles.
"We would be honored if you did."- He says- "You're a vital part of this family now. Our paths are connected."
Aurelia smiles, as well.
"Yay!"- She exclaims- "I get to spend more time with Geralt!"
Geralt smiles.
"And I get to spend time with a dear friend of mine."
Aurelia blushes slightly.
"Aww. So that's what I am to you right now?"- She says to herself, never daring to say what she truly thinks out loud- "Oh well. Perhaps we could warm up to each other someday."
As the three of them prepare the burial for Lydia, they are joined by the rest of their allies. Together, they manage to dig a makeshift grave and say a few kind words for the fallen. It is clear that they are as saddened as Geralt, Aurelia and Marlon, and it shows.
While they spend a minute of silence for the person who made a beautiful dream come true, Geralt accidentally tilts his head up. He sees a lone man standing on a nearby hill, almost like a statue. He cannot see his features from this far away, but he can tell that he is peaceful.
"Geralt, my boy. What is it?"- Marlon whispers- "What interests you so much?"
Geralt looks at him.
"There is a lone person up there."- He whispers- "It almost feels like he is watching over us."
Marlon raises his eyebrow.
"Watching over us, hmm?"- He whispers- "Very suspicious. Perhaps I need to look further into th-- "
Suddenly, they hear a soft, yet powerful voice in their minds, A voice of wisdom, of reason. However, it doesn't make them feel uncomfortable that their minds are being scrambled by someone else. Instead, they feel rather relaxed, as if they are standing in a hot tub at home.
"To know others."- The mysterious voice says- "Is to know yourself."
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"To know others... is to know yourself?"
Marlon looks up.
"What a wise and insightful comment."- He whispers- "I've never felt something so energizing. It almost feels like I'm standing here with my wife."
Geralt looks at him.
"Only Mrs. Moonglow has made you feel this way?"
Marlon nods.
"Indeed."- He responds- "Oh, my gorgeous Lydia. I miss her so very much."
The rest of the ceremony continues as the mysterious man slowly fades away into the mist of the hills, disappearing from sight like some kind of pleasant dream.
"Well, that was exactly the moment of peace that we all needed to have."- Emela says and smiles sadly- "But now, it's time for us to move on with our lives, fighting empires and all of that stuff. We've got a long road ahead of us."
Marlon nods.
"Indeed, my friend."- He says- "Let's make the best out of it."
Geralt and Aurelia spend the rest of their day on the docks. They sit near the beach and watch the sunset together, free of all the troubles in this world and eager to continue living their beautiful lives.
"Are you sure that you have to go soon?"- Aurelia asks Geralt- "If you go, I'll be all alone again!"
Geralt smiles.
"You should not worry about that, my dear Aurelia."- He says- "You still have your father and your mother's spirit beside you. You don't need me anymore. I am just another obstacle in your noble life."
Aurelia shakes her head.
"No! You're dear to me and you always will be!"- She exclaims- "I still need you, Geralt! Don't do this!"
Geralt looks down, his eyes filled with guilt.
"Forgive me, Aurelia. I must."- He says- "I made a promise to those people. They are the ones that my father protected one and the prophecy chose me as his successor. I must fulfill my role, if I want to live a happier life."
He turns to her and smiles.
"Maybe the winds of fate shall reunite us someday. Maybe we shall be able to feel what we are feeling now."- He says- "Until then, we shall just remain friends. Good friends."
Aurelia looks down.
"I... I... "
She is about to say something else, but is interrupted when an old man approaches them.
"Forgive me for interrupting your thoughts, but I am looking for a certain someone."- He says- "Which one of you is Geralt Kaos?"
Geralt nods.
"That would be me."- He responds- "But who is the one who is asking?"
The man smiles.
"I am Akihiro- master of Faith and Light from a time long past. A soul of purity that searches, high and low, for the perfect student."- He says- "I wish to train them in the ways of true heroism and give them a chance to redeem themselves. It is the last thing that I want to do in my life and I would be honored if I could find them."
Aurelia starts to tell the man that he is likely mistaken, but Geralt stops her.
"And how would you know if a person is worthy of this title or not?"
Akihiro smiles.
"One must always be pure of heart and mind. To only consider his decisions with the wisest of thoughts."- He says- "He who conquers his own fears and sucks out the venom in his own heart shall become known as a student of faith. A hard task, but not impossible, if you know what you are looking for."
He looks at Geralt.
"I have no students left, though. Most of them got bored of my philosophies and left me behind."- He says and looks down- "For a hundred years, I have been wandering alone. Lost. Searching for the truth under every grain of salt, every rock along the way. And yet, I came with nothing to take home, I am afraid."
Akihiro's eyes light up as he keeps talking to Geralt.
"But then, I saw the light emanating from a fellow hero's soul. A fragment of existence, too pure for its own good."- He says- "That's when I knew that I was on the trail to justice and wisdom."
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"And you think that the person that you are looking for... is me?"
Akihiro shrugs.
"I guess that we shall never know until it is proven otherwise."- He says- "But I have ushered many students and none have been as worthy as you, I have to admit."
He smiles.
"So, if you wish to join me, I shall help you reach your destiny. Allow you to see the truth and defeat whatever villain is plaguing your mind."- He says- "What say you, heir of pure light?"
Geralt nods.
"Well, I had the intention of going out of town for a while, anyway. Joining a mysterious master of Faith is probably even better than going alone."- He says and smiles- 'You got yourself a deal, ancient warrior. I shall accompany you on your journey to wisdom."
Akihiro bows his head.
"Oh my! What have I done to deserve this wonderful blessing?"- He says- "Thank you for answering, though. I shal look forward to having you by my side."
Aurelia takes a step forward.
"Umm. I know that it's probably not any kind of two-player game, but I've been really itching for adventure."- She says- "Can I... join you, too?"
Akihiro inspects the young girl. He thinks about this for what would seem like a minute. Soon, he comes to a conclusion.
"I see that your soul is also pure. Not quite as pure as Geralt's, but you still deserve admirations."- He says- "Alright. You may join us on this journey. Two swords are always better than one, they say, and I would love to see you prove me right."
Aurelia jumps up and down in joy.
"Yes! Yes! I'm going on an adventure!"- She exclaims and hugs Geralt- "We're going to be the best team ever!"
Geralt smiles.
"I... really hope so, Aurelia."
Aurelia nods.
"I'm gonna go and check in with my dad. See if he can give me his blessing for my new destiny."- She says- "See you soon!"
Geralt and Akihiro wait for a while as Aurelia runs back to her father's household and returns with a response.
"Good news, everyone!"- She says- "Daddy gave me his blessing! And he wished Geralt good luck! We set for the adventure of our lives!"
Geralt smiles.
"This is very good to hear, Aurelia!"
Aurelia blushes.
"T-thank you, Geralt."
Akihiro nods.
"Very well, then."- He says- "In the spirit of a good journey, we shall begin our adventure tomorrow morning. Rest well and prepare yourselves, because you shall soon feel the taste of true light."
Geralt nods.
"We will be honored to join you, mighty master of old."- He says- "Farewell, for now. We shall see you very soon."
Akihiro smiles.
"Take care, young Geralt."- He says to him- "You have incredible potential, the potential to change the world for good. Let's hope that you realize how important you are to the new order that is being built, even as we speak."
With a final bow, the ancient man takes a few steps backwards and disappears into the mist ahead, allowing Geralt and Aurelia to return home and open a new page in their lives.
----And so, destiny itself has changed in favor of the good in this world. Good things have happened and the bond between the forces of evil has been shattered. Brigantia will no longer be able to help outlaws, thieves and other types of petty miscreants to thrive in peace. Slavery, once allowed in the proud town by the cruel and senseless Emperor Redmark, has now been abolished. All of the surviving slaves and servants return to their families and are assigned to much better jobs. 
And yet, the wound caused to them by the exceptionally cruel slave traders still remains. It is like scars in their hearts, hard to heal after all that has been done to them. But there is always hope in the air. Soon, all of those bad memories shall turn into simple nightmares that are easily forgotten. Even though the pain is always here to stay, there shall still be peace, of both mind, heart and soul.
But what would happen to our two heroes- Geralt and Aurelia? Did they make the right decision? Have they just condemned themselves to a common fate that they might regret soon? Well, there is nothing in the world that would be able to predict that. Only time would tell whether the fabled young hero and his gorgeous female companion will see the things that Akihiro told them and whether they will feel complete or not.
Journeys happen all the time. Heroes come and go. The gears of time never stop moving, even for a few seconds. And yet, there is still hope for something new, something that shall save them all from this tiresome monotony.
Until then, the only thing that is left... is the prayer for a better future.
Onward, brave heroes!
== Trivia ==
* The words that Aurelia says at the end of the Part ("Good news, everyone!") are a reference to Professor Farnsworth of "Futurama", who is popular for saying the same phrase himself.