MLTO C5, P6

This is the sixth Part of "MLIV:TO" 's fifth Chapter.
It was released on 12.03.2023.
== Plot ==
Geralt and his allies step into the lands of Avernum for the first time. Once there, they come to the realization that the situation that they saw above the ground is much worse in the lands below their feet. There is an increasing amount of unrest within the citizens of the Unknown Lands, most notably within those who live closer to its heart and are, understandably, most worried about the troubles that are happening elsewhere. During those times of absolute turmoil caused by Redmark and the secret enemies of Avernum, the villains that the warriors of the underworld bottled up with mighty efforts emerge once again and, now undisturbed by the heroes of this world, continue to wreck havoc and set the rest of the lands on fire. People come to trust the heroes less and less and it is up to a small band of heroes to fix everything once again- a common tradition in those wild, relatively unsettled lands.
On their way to solve the mystery behind the problems of Avernum and to eliminate a certain, very dangerous villain, our heroes come across the first signs of real trouble. A small but very efficient gang of wannabe vigilantes, led by the esteemed and notorious victim of the Darkness known simply as Moritz, they have to come face to face with a force that is capable of turning the entire world against them.
With the odds against them once again, the young heroes have to continue to make everything right, even though everything is already very wrong.
Will they prevail?
== Story ==
The mysterious group gets closer and joins their leader. They take a look at our heroes and, realizing who they really are, draw their weapons with little hesitation, forcing the young do-gooders to do the same.
"Did you really think that you can escape the hands of justice? That you can continue causing chaos in the world and make our lives even more miserable?"- The leader asks and sighs- "Friends, you're lying to yourselves. All that you've been doing until now is make the people everywhere doubt your abilities to save others from danger. Everyone has been hiding the truth until now. They know who you really are, but they chose to stay silent."
He stares straight into Geralt's eyes. He is not the least bit afraid of him.
"All that they need to start a revolution is a little push."- He adds- "Everything has already been decided. You can't do anything else for them."
Kaiden shakes his head.
"I don't know who you think you are, but I think that the one who is lying to himself... is the one who is standing in front of us."- He says- "Just because we failed to catch Redmark's loyalists red-handed doesn't give the people of this world a reason to hate us. In fact, some of them have even considered taking arms against the tyrant instead of staying inert like the rest of those fools. And if they think that they can rebel against us like you, I think that they're making a very big mistake."
Aurelia takes a step forward.
"I'm not much of a thinker, but I suspect that there is something that you're not trying to tell us."- She says to the gang leader- "If you truly want us gone, why have you waited for so long? Why did you attack us now when you had so many other opportunities when we were most vulnerable?"
The man shakes his head.
"We had... our own reasons. Political disputes with the government that slowed everything down for all of us."- He says- "Our leader has been busy smiting down the non-believers in those lands. Those who doubted us were very certain in their response regarding our rise. They caused us so much trouble. Many of our warriors lost their lives and I can't fathom how bad it could've been for us if we hadn't acted quickly. It was a nightmare, but we finally have the chance to hurt the targets with the highest value. Such as... yourselves."
Dante shakes his head.
"I've seen many villains in my short time as a hero. Many of them had different views regarding the disputes in this world. However, you are possibly the most deranged ones of them all."- He says- "How could you think that the heroes of this world are the villains who cause so many problems. Have you ever looked at a mirror and regretted the choices that you made? If you truly had the soul of a noble-hearted vigilante, you would rise your sword against the emperor who is trying to set the world on fire, not the ones who are trying to put it out."
Now the man is truly agitated. He tries to strike back at the words with more words, but he is out of taunts. Like a mouse in a trap, he is stuck in a corner and the only way out is fighting back against his enemies in a different way.
"There's a darkness living inside of each one of you. A source of evil that makes you think that you're the ones who are always right."- He says- "But that is not the case, for we are the ones who bring justice to this world, not you."
Aurelia sighs.
"Well, that was weak. Like the wine that you surely drink."- She says- "Is there anything else that you will say to us? Anything that will make our blood boil even more?"
Geralt takes a step forward. He tries to say something, but his allies keep arguing with the leader, preventing him from joining in.
"Umm... excuse me."- He says- "Can I... umm... "
Kaiden turns around.
"Yes, little bro?"- He asks- "Do you have something to add."
Geralt nods.
"Well, I thought about your situation. About the problems that you had to endure, the resentment of the locals that you had to dispel with your actions."- He says- "And I came to the realization that might chance our views toward you. No matter how much you like to pretend that it is otherwise, you are just like us. You have a reason to stay united. You keep on fighting, in the name of a better world. And you have the same emotional scars that we have ourselves, even though they are not quite as... huge. We are one of a kind, even though we are enemies."
He turns toward the leader.
"So, tell me."- He says- "Umm... "
The man raises his eyebrow.
"Yes?"
Geralt does the same.
"What is your name?"
The man looks confused.
"My... name?"- He asks- "Why do you want to know, villain?"
Geralt smiles sadly.
"Well."- He says- "If we are going to fight, then can you at least tell us who you are?"
The man nods.
"I can see that you're being curious. Perhaps I will indulge your attitude, but you deserve it. To some extent. You've gone very far, and it'll be best to let you know."- He says to him- "My name is Moritz. I am a man who has held a weapon ever since he was a child, be it a mere stick or a powerful sword. I was born in a marsh and was abandoned when my parents were forced to run for their lives. I was found by a group of kindhearted herb gatherers and taken to their settlement, where I stayed for sixteen years. When I was old enough, I emerged from my hometown and joined the nearest gang that needed my help, which happened to be this one. And I haven't regretted my decision for a single second, as we have brought safety for the people of those lands."
Geralt nods.
"You seem to be a man who values justice as much as we do, Moritz. I can respect that."- He says- "But a true hero never lives for one thing. He continues to find reasons for his actions, in the hopes that the light of redemption will illuminate his life once again. And, from the looks of it, you have been living in the shadows for a very long time. It makes me wonder if you have ever seen the light or not."
Moritz raises his eyebrow.
"Am I supposed to?"- He asks- "Just because I'm a denizen of the underworld, it doesn't mean that I haven't been touched."
Dante looks at him.
"It depends what touched you in the first place."- He says- "Was it the light? Or the darkness?"
Moritz shakes his head.
"It doesn't matter. At all."- He says- "All that you need to know is that you've been marked by Baron Bridges. Don't think that the visit of Andras was purely coincidental. Everything was planned from the start and all of us are in the middle of it."
Geralt nods.
"I never doubted your involvement in this situation."- He responds- "Your trail, although a little faint, has been very prominent. And I long suspected that Baron Bridges' people will keep trying to end our lives."
Moritz nods.
"Then you're no fool. You prepared as much as you could and now, your worst fears just came true."- He says- "You're ready for battle, and so are we."
Dante sighs.
"I don't think that this fool realizes how doomed he truly is."- He whispers to Geralt- "Shall we teach him a lesson that he'll never forget?"
Geralt looks at Moritz. He thinks that he is smarter than most villains that he encountered and wants to give him a chance. However, the current circumstances prevent him from having independent thoughts, so he is forced to agree with his allies' decision.
"We will. Rest assured of that."- He whispers back- "But I have a quick suggestion for you. No matter what happens next, do not try to kill them all. Do not let your guard down, but act merciful, to a certain extent. We want to make peace with the people of Avernum, not to anger them even further."
Dante sighs.
"I can't make any promises. Mercy isn't really my thing, as you may already know."- He whispers- "But if this is what you want, it shall be this way. We'll try to spare a few of the less bloodthirsty fools."
Moritz shakes his head.
"Enough of this chit-chat. I'm tired of acting like a diplomat."- He says- "Let's get on with this, you villains. En garde!"
Then, much to the surprise of his enemies, he pulls out a pair of large pistols and fires them- a sign that the battle has already begun. His allies react to this signal with great violence, letting out fierce battle cries and charging forward.
From the shadows of the caves around them, more vigilantes appear to stop the heroes from going anywhere, even though they never had the intention to do so. They are stuck between the hammer and the anvil, waiting for disaster to strike while defending themselves from the one that is already here.
While Geralt's allies are busy taking care of Moritz, their leader focuses his attention on the opposite of the enemy team- Geralt himself. He attempts to strike him down with his guns, but the young hero nimbly avoids the shots and makes the whole situation seem like a dark pirouette. 
Moritz eventually grows tired of Geralt's continued survival. He takes a step back and pulls out something from his pocket. A seemingly normal object, at first, but looks can be quite deceiving. 
Geralt immediately knows what is going on. He tries to warn his allies, but soon realizes that he is in the middle of the blast, as well. Instead of fighting back, he tries to reason with Moritz.
"Why are you being so reckless?"- He asks- "If you use that thing, you are going to kill us all. Put it back before you make a mistake that you will regret."
Moritz shakes his head.
"It's too late. I've already made my choice."- He says- "If this is my last battle, I'll go down with a boom."
Aurelia leans close to Geralt.
"I'm sure that the pun was not intended."- She whispers- "Maybe."
Moritz raises the small object in the air.
"Perish, Kaos!"
Then, he throws it at Geralt, watching coldly as the explosion engulfs the entire battlefield. He wants to laugh, but soon realizes that only a true villain would ever do that. So, he stays silent and watches as the chaos unfolds quickly before his eyes.
When the smoke clears, he sees a massive hole, caused by the blast. A small number of bodies are visible at the bottom of it.
"Hmph."- He says and turns around- "My work here is done."
When he prepares to walk away, he feels a familiar presence somehere behind him. Just in time, he avoids a beam of light that was fired in his direction, effectively saving himself from a very humiliating ending.
"What in the world?"- He says and turns around- "What is this mockery? Who dares to-- "
Then, he sees the face of his attacker.
"No. This is not real."- He says- "I saw you die back there. You can't come back and haunt me."
Geralt smiles.
"Well, I am afraid that this is not the case."
Then, he glares at Moritz as he continues to watch him.
"A true warrior of the world never allows his soul to drift away so easily. He holds onto it for as long as he can, reaches out as far as he can."- He continues- "I have faced many difficult situations in my life. I was shunned by the people that I called my friends. I was alone, in a world full of evil. I had to become one with the world itself to know how it feels to be a part of it. Every single thing that I have done, I did it because I wanted to serve as a source of inspiration to others like me. And you will not claim me, not while the fire in my soul is still burning."
Moritz raises his eyebrow.
"Is that so, you villain?"- He says- "Then allow me to become the water that puts it down!"
Lunging forward, Moritz attempts to shoot Geralt again. However, the young hero performs a perfect backflip and avoids the flurry of bullets that is being sent toward him. With each missed shot, Moritz grows angrier and angrier, until he finally snaps and tackles Geralt, grabbing him by the neck.
"I made a promise to the baron. He gave me a chance to redeem myself and he's going to reward me by giving his blessing to my family."- He says- "Don't you realize what he's capable of. Don't you have a little pity for us, the normal people who risked everything to live normal lives?!"
Geralt shakes his head.
"This is the most blatant lie that I have ever heard."- He says- "If this so-called 'Baron Bridges' claims that he will save everyone from the spawns of evil, he is lying to himself. There is always evil in this world and the only think that he does is to distract the people from the true villains, the ones who are responsible for all the misery and grief. And if you think that you will receive any favors from a man who is so good at lying his way out of a problem, then you are as much of a fool as he is!"
For a second, Moritz grows doubtful of his current ideals. He thinks that there is something beyond his way of thinking and that he needs to find it as soon as possible. However, the feeling soon passes and he continues to attack.
"You don't know us. You never saw us in a different way."- He says- "If it's not justice that you want to see, then allow me to show you something better."
With great effort, he pushes Geralt toward the massive hole, His intentions are completely clear- he wants to throw him in and get rid of him once and for all. However, the doubts from before are still present. He doesn't know whether Geralt is telling the truth or not yet, but he is certain that there is something special about him. Something that disturbs his inner thoughts, that gives him the visions of a hero.
"You know, I tried to learn about you when I was still sitting in our base. I read books about the Kaos family and I understood more about its youngest, most troubled member."- He says- "I came to know you better, Geralt Kaos. I understood that you had faced much more than any normal child ever should. And you know what? All that knowledge made me respect you, to some extent. I saw you as a hero. As a do-gooder with a pure heart. However, my mission involved eliminating people such as yourself. I had to make a noticable change in the ways of this world. So, I had to come out here, in the hopes of making it happen."
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"And you still claim that this is the whole truth?"- He asks- "Are you really as loyal to your master as you claim to be? Or is there something that you have not been telling us... Mister Moritz?"
Moritz sighs.
"I've got to admit. I had my suspicious of my master's plans. At first, I wanted to simply bring you to our lair and understand you a little better, to see whether you're as bad as they claim that you are or not."- He says- "Believe me, I feel very bad about having to kill one of the world's greatest heroes. I really do. But it is something that must be done and I can't let guilt take over my actions."
He holds Geralt up in the air.
"No! Stop it!"- Aurelia exclaims- "This is not the right way! You're hurting him!"
Like she did at the Blackflame Mountain, she runs forward and attempts to convince Moritz to let Geralt go. However, the villain is unmoved by her cries. He simply stands there as she talks and shakes his head.
"You're wasting your time, young lady."- He says- "We all have suffered from the consequences of our own actions. Just because your friend has been through more than all of us combined doesn't give him the right to act against the world's interests."
Geralt sighs.
"It is alright, Aurelia, I've got this."- He says- "Stand back. This is my fight and my fight alone."
Aurelia looks at him.
"But... you promised that we'll always be together!"
Geralt shakes his head.
"We will be. That, I can still promise."- He says- "But we cannot fight together. It is not possible. Not anymore."
As his allies look down, Geralt stares at Moritz.
"If this is what you truly want, be my guest."- He says- "But be warned. The fires of justice are burning on both sides. If one of them learns of your deed, you might be sorry. Very sorry.
Moritz sighs.
"I won't say that I'm sorry."- He says- "However, I'll say something which I've had on my mind for a while. You... deserved better than to be treated like this."
Geralt nods.
"And I reciprocate your thoughts, Moritz."- He says- "What I said before was truly genuine. I truly felt like we were cut from the same cloth. That we are heroes, in our own way, no matter who we work for."
He looks down.
"But if this is what you want, I will not stop you."- He adds- "Fate has always had its twists and turns. And if this is how I will be remembered, so be it. I will not interfere with the plans of the ones who are above our heads."
At last, the smog that has been shrouding Moritz's heart has been dispelled. He finally sees the world around him with different eyes, albeit he is the same person that he was before.
"What... do you mean by that?"- He asks- "Did you really want to... save me?"
Geralt tries to respond to his question. However, just before he could enlighten him a little bit further, an infuriated Kaiden steps forward and shakes his head.
"I've had enough of this worthless nobody!"- He yells- "If he won't let go of Geralt in the easy way, I will make it hard for him!"
Then. he picks up a javelin from the ground and throws it at Moritz, striking him in the stomach and watching as he stumbles back.
"No, Kai! Control yourself!"- Geralt exclaims- "This is not the real you! Do not let the rage overcome your mind again!"
Kaiden shakes his head.
"I'm sorry, Geralt."- He says- "But it's too late!"
Just as Moritz starts to stumble forward, Kaiden lunges forward and lifts his shades, revealing his closed eyes. Then, much to the surprise of everyone, he opens them and shoots a huge beam of light at the villain, striking him square in the chest and throwing him off the ledge.
"This is not the end!"- Moritz yells- "He will find you! You will not escape... the hands of justice!"
And then, he falls down and rolls to the bottom of the hole, unable to emerge again.
"Another villain gone. Another mission concluded."- Dante says and sighs- "I wonder how far we still have to go."
Kaiden looks back and sighs.
"Not as far as this fool, that's for sure."- He says- "If that's the truth, that is."
Geralt shakes his head.
"We are not going anywhere without saving that poor person."- He says- "He did not deserve it. He must be saved from a fate worse than death."
All eyes are now on Geralt. His words have caused a lot of unrest.
"Why would you try to save a man who just tried to kill you?"- Kaiden asks him- "What's the point of wasting our energy on a villain like him?"
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"He is not a villain, Kai. He is just misunderstood."- He says- "Now come here and help me out."
Kaiden turns away.
"I'm sorry, but I can't."- He says- "I won't help you help a villain who tried to cause so much pain to us."
Dante takes a few steps forward.
"Well. If you don't want to be a hero, we will take your place."- He says- "Come on, Geralt. Let's do this."
Kaiden raises his eyebrow.
"Dante?"- He asks- "What is wrong with you?!"
Dante looks back.
"The real question is: What's wrong with you?"
As Kaiden sits, confused, Dante and Aurelia focus their elemental energies to help Geralt create a rope of light to pull Moritz up. Then, they watch as he throws it to the bottom of the pit and attempts to persuade the villain into grabbing it.
"What is this? Some kind of a rope?"- He asks- "Nope. You won't blind me with your lies. I've already chosen my fate. You can't change me."
Geralt shakes his head.
"I am not going to allow a person to die in such a horrible way, no matter if they are a villain or not."- He says- "If you value your own life at least a little bit, allow us to come to your aid. It will be better for all of us."
Moritz shakes his head.
"You know me and I know you. That's all that you need to know."- He says- "I'm not going to let the world crush me even further than it already has. Cut that rope. Now."
Geralt starts to hear the sounds of faint rumbling. A force of nature is making its way to the bottom and if he wants to save Moritz, he needs to hurry up. So, without any hesitation, he swings the rope of light and throws it again, this time wrapping it around Moritz's entire body.
"I said that I will save you!"- He yells- "Now stand still and let me help you!"
Moritz looks up.
"But... the people!"- He exclaims- "They can't see me like this!"
Geralt shakes his head.
"They will not see how dependant you have become. I assure you."- He says- "Just accept your new life and don't let it crush you. The rest will be an empty tablet that you will have to fill with writing. Everything else is up to you."
Then, just as rocks start to fall from the top, Geralt pulls the rope with all his might. However, his strength is not enough to move Moritz away, not even slightly.
"This is not good."- He says- "Dante! Aurelia! Please, come here and help me out!"
Dante nods.
"We've got your back, Big G!"
Joined by almost all of his allies, Geralt manages to pull Moritz away from the ground. And yet, the force is still not enough to pull him up to the top. Something seems to be missing. A key component, absent and undiscovered.
"I don't think that I'll be able to hold it for much longer!"- Aurelia exclaims- "What happens now, Geralt?"
Geralt shakes his head.
"For the first time in a while, I am not sure!"- He exclaims- "God wants back what is rightfully his! I cannot resist his call!"
Moritz shakes his head.
"You already did your job! Now let me do mine!"- He exclaims- "It's the only way! You can't change the world!"
Just as Geralt is about to give up, he feels the strength of another human being beside him. A strong, firm force of will, ready to unleash its power upon anything, even the deranged gods themselves.
"Oh, there is a way!"- Kaiden yells- "Let us show you!"
With the strength of the four unbeatable champions, the rope is capable of finding its way through the piles of rubble. Moritz is easily pulled up to the surface and he watches, horrified, as the massive hole that he created is sealed back up.
"Man. That was a close one."- He says- "But... why? Why did you save me?"
Geralt looks at him.
"Nobody deserves to be treated like this. Villain or not, you were just misunderstood. Guided by the wrong force."- He says- "I can see it in your eyes, Moritz. You want to change the world, but are only capable of causing pain. This is why you went mad. This is why you let go of your ideals and adapted to someone else's. You allowed the darkness of this world to guide you and never dared to look back at the light."
He smiles.
"There is a second chance for you."- He adds- "You can begin your life anew. Your hard work will not be wasted away."
Moritz coughs.
"I appreciate your aid, Geralt. You truly made me see that justice's not my primary focus."- He says- "But I won't live long to see the change. When your brother attacked me, he caused a grievous wound in my chest. And I... I don't think that I can endure the pain for much longer."
To prove his point, Moritz unbuttons his shirt and reveals the massive hole in his chest.
"See? He was doomed all along!"- Kaiden exclaims- "All that we did was make him even more miserable! I stand firm to my promise and so should you!"
Geralt takes a step forward. His eyes may be a little dim, but his mind is still sharp. His head is still high and, from the looks of it, he is determined to do something right.
"It does not matter how hurt you are, you will make it out of this. That, I promise you."- He says calmly and looks back at his allies- "Aurelia, heal him."
Kaiden stares at his brother in disbelief.
"But little bro!"- He exclaims- "You promised that we'll get rid of all the villains in this world, didn't you? Why are you trying to spare one of the wors-- "
Geralt angrily shakes his head.
"I said heal him!"
Aurelia takes a step forward and nods.
"As you wish, my dearest."- She says- "It will be done."
She bends down and checks Moritz's wound. Then, she casts a minor healing spell to ease his pain and a second one to make the hole close up slightly. Little by little, she increases the intensity of her spell, monitoring the status of the wound with her own eyes, making sure that there is no pain or blood loss.
Moritz seems to be fine with this situation. He calmly lays back as Aurelia heals him, seemingly resigned to his new fate. His life has just started anew and his new troubles have yet to begin.
As the healing continues to happen, Dante looks at Kaiden and smiles.
"The world is changing, Kaiden."- He says- "And right now, we're in the middle of it."
Kaiden sighs, takes a few steps toward Moritz and looks at him.
"I'm not sure if you realize how lucky you really are, but you just hit the jackpot."- He says- "Once Aurelia's done with you, you're on your own. The world is your canvas. If you want to paint it in a certain color, go right ahead. Just don't invoke our wrath again, lest we'll be much less merciful."
Moritz nods.
"Thank you... I suppose."- He mutters- "Maybe you ain't as bad as I was told."
Geralt smiles.
"It is always nice to look at others with different eyes, isn't it?"- He asks him- "Perhaps we could become allies. Someday."
Moritz sighs.
"I highly doubt it. I am a lone wolf and I don't like allying myself with others."- He says- "But if something ever tries to harm you, I might be there. Perhaps to help you, perhaps to simply watch as the chaos unfolds."
Geralt raises his eyebrow.
"Do you have a lucky coin for that?"
Moritz looks up at him.
"A lucky... w-what?"
Geralt smiles.
"Here, I will give you a little something for the road ahead."- He says and gives him a small silver coin- "This one used to belong to a certain notorious villain that I took care of in the distant past. He was always so greedy, so deceitful, and this little coin was always in his pocket. It brought him a lot of luck in battle... or so he thought, until he met us."
Moritz raises his eyebrow.
"And why would you let go of such a precious relic of times long past?"- He asks- "Isn't it supposed to stay with you and remind you of what you've become?"
Geralt shakes his head.
"There is no reason to worry about me. I already have all the memories that I need."- He responds- "Besides, I do not need this little coin. We have a lot of precious objects back at home. Nobody will miss it."
Kaiden grins.
"Just don't think about tails too many times!"- He exclaims- "You might find yourself with your metaphorical tail tied behind your back!"
Geralt smiles.
"I see that you have not lost your sense of humor, Kai."- He says- "That is worth some bonus points from me."
Kaiden nods.
"Trust me, I've never lost anything I ever had."- He reassures him- "My blindness only made me stronger."
Geralt nods, as well.
"And it shows."
After a few more minutes, Aurelia's healing finally takes effect. The massive hole in Moritz's chest is completely sealed and the man is ready go. Although a little tired from the ordeal, he stands up and thanks the heroes for their good deed.
"I can't make any promises. I never did before and I won't do it now."- He says- "But maybe, just maybe, we'll fight on the same side someday. If I ever meet the right people, that is."
He salutes them as he prepares to leave.
"Safe journey, Geralt and company."- He says- "I hope that you find what you're looking for."
Before he leaves, he looks at Geralt one last time.
"One more thing, young Kaos."- He says- "My ex-boss gave me this map to find my way through his lair and understand the different layouts of the passages that lead to it. It helped me understand the nature of that place. And now, it's yours. Use it well."
He tosses him a large map, either to help him out or to make his former boss pay for misleading him. Either way, he clearly let go of his villainy and it shows.
Then, he prepares to leave again.
"Wait!"- Geralt exclaims.
Moritz looks back.
"Thank you... Moritz."
Moritz nods.
"Don't lose the fire inside of you. That bright spark of life."- He says- "The forces of evil are on their knees. Burn them all down."
Then, without another word, he leaves for good, never to be seen again.
"Farewell, Mr. Moritz. It was good to know you."- Aurelia says- "We hope to see you again someday... "
As Moritz disappears from sight (but not from mind), Geralt and his allies plan their next move. They want to follow the map and go into Baron Bridges's lair immediately, but they know that the odds are still stacked against them, like a huge gate in front of a little soldier. A single wrong move could cause it to fall on top of him in an instant.
"You know, there is a single quest that we have yet to report."- Geralt suggests to his allies- "Do you remember the mission that we received in Almaria? About the drakes that caused trouble from their tower? Maybe the mayor can reward us for our efforts, at long last."
Aurelia grins.
"Ooh, I like the sound of that!"- She exclaims- "Let's get going, then!"
Geralt and his allies return to Almaria. The guards at the gate immediately welcome them and tell them that the mayor wants to see them. News of the drakes' defeat has already reached their ears and they are thrilled to see the fall of their sworn enemies.
Once the heroes arrive in the mayor's office, their suspicions are proven correct. The mayor has, indeed, heard of their victory and is ready to reward them with what they are due.
"Ah. The mighty heroes. The saviors of Known and Unknown Lands. The slayers of mythological horrors. The bringers of justice to the unfort-- "
The mayor's secretary coughs and looks at him expectantly.
"Yes, yes. The reward."- He says- "For your mighty efforts, I bestow upon you this monetary gift of 1000 Generic Gold Coins. Use them well my friends, you have earned them."
One of the guards comes into the room, holding a large sack of gold. He gives it to Geralt and smiles as he takes a good look at it.
"Wow! It really is true!"- Aurelia exclaims- "Helping others is truly rewarding!"
The mayor nods.
"From the looks of it, I can tell that you're truly the heroes that we need."- He says- "Now go out there and make everything right. Avernum needs you and so does the entire world."
The guards look at our heroes with a little bit of envy. They are jealous that those youngsters are doing much more work that they will ever do in their entire lives, but they seem to be rather fine with it. Being a guard is one thing and being a hero of the world is another. They are content with simply watching them from afar.
As the heroes prepare to leave the mayor's office, Geralt looks back. Something seems to be on his mind, but it is not immediately clear what it is.
"Hold on."- He says- "I have one more thing to say."
He approaches the mayor and looks at him.
"When you gave us this monetary reward, I felt truly appreciated. I know that the people of Avernum are normally to worried about their own problems to worry about us and I truly appreciate the fact that you are going out of your way to help us, the humble heroes, out."- He says- "However, I am afraid that we cannot accept it just like that. I do not want to sound selfish or make others think that I have been bribed to do something for someone else. Thus, I am afraid that I want to withdraw our reward."
Everyone in the room gasps.
"Geralt! What in the seven heavens are you talking about?"- Aurelia asks him- "This is the reward for our hard work! You can't just toss it away!"
Geralt looks back.
"Is that so, Aurelia?"- He asks- "Then watch closely. I am about to prove you wrong."
He approaches the mayor's desk and places the bag of gold on it without any hesitation.
"You want to leave your rightful reward?"- The mayor says- "But why? What are your motives? What are your intentions?"
Geralt sighs.
"Many people think that this is my first visit in Avernum. But I am afraid that it is not. And it will likely not be the last one, either."- He says- "Six years ago, my parents brought me on a journey in those humble lands. I saw the pain of the people who were forced to live here. I came to understand what they had to sacrifice to live like this. But I was most touched by the story of a small place that really made me think, really made me feel."
He looks at his allies.
"When I was in Avernum, I came across a small orphanage just outside the walls of Formello. They were being neglected by the locals, left to fend for themselves with little more than the standard allowance of the Avernites around them. And they remained there, starved. Emaciated. Weakened by the ordeal. They never, ever saw the sun. If this keeps happening, they likely never would."- He says- "Their caretaker, that poor, tortured soul, he has been through the worst of it. While being neglected by the military, the orphanage was noticed by certain outlaw parties. They were attacked by bandits. Humanoids. Even a drake or two. And the brave man, he had to fend them all off. He had to protect all the children within this sacred place. And yet, despite his best efforts, he could not save them all. A few children perished during each raid and the victim could would only rise with each consecutive attack. So, I made the decision to aid those people in their effort to regain their lost pride. The happiness that was stripped away from their hearts. If there is one more good thing that I want to do, this is it."
The guards in the room applaud Geralt for his generosity and kindness. Such a brave act is barely seen by anyone, and those people are witnessing history. A lone hero donating his massive reward to a small place in the middle of nowhere? Unheard of!
"How... noble of you, Mr. Kaos. To think that you actually want to help those who have so little strength and remain unnoticed by anyone is... truly something else."- The mayor says- "Alright then. If that's what you wish, then I shall grant it. The money will be given to the orphanage as soon as possible. Perhaps it will help them reform once again."
He looks at him.
"But tell me, young Geralt."- He says to him- "Once the money arrives at its new destination, should we tell the caretaker that it was you who sent it? Or should we keep it secret?"
Geralt shakes his head.
"It is best if the people do not think too much about it. I want them to focus on their new, bright future."- He responds- "Keep my donation a secret, if you can. Mentioning my name would bring much joy, but it would also bring much sadness."
The mayor smiles sadly.
"So it be, Geralt."- He says- "Your wish shall be granted."
As the guards prepare to take the money away, Dante angrily steps forward.
"Is something wrong, Mr. Gonoru?"
Dante slams his fists into the desk, shocking everyone.
"This is unfair!"- He yells- "You can't just give this money to some strangers! It will help nobody!"
The mayor shakes his head.
"Perhaps you're more heartless than we thought."- He says- "This is not good news for you, Mr. Gonoru."
Dante glares at Geralt.
"Don't you realize how much money this is? It would save my entire kingdom!"- He yells- "Bring it back! We have an entire nation to save!"
He attempts to take the money back, but Geralt stands in his way.
"I am afraid that it will not happen, Dante."- He says- "I already made my choice. And it is far more noble than what you are thinking about right now."
The mayor nods.
"I agree with the young Kaos. Helping the less financially stable parts of our society is the best move a true hero could make for a nation."- He says- "Besides, what good would 1000 coins do for an entire kingdom? Do you realize that you need far more than that to save it? If you truly want to bring back the former glory of Goznor, start by dispelling that irritating arrogance inside of your heart."
Dante glares at him.
"I have my own reasons. And you don't need to know them."- He says- "For the good of everyone in this room and outside of it, do as I say. I don't want any trouble."
Geralt shakes his head.
"The condition of one man is crucial for us, but it is not quite as important as the future of those poor little children."- He says- "If we decide to bring them back to Goznor, what will happen to them? Are we just going to let them starve away? This could be a bad omen for many people around the world. Why do you want to make it worse?"
Dante's rage becomes uncontrollable. He glares at Geralt again, this time in a more aggressive way.
"Don't tell me what to do with my life!"
As Dante lunges forward to punch Geralt, Kaiden stands in his way and viciously slaps him.
"Your kingdom's not the only place that needs help, you fool! The entire world needs it!"- He yells- "Helping people like this is our duty. Our desire for money is nonexistent, even if it is for the good of our people. We think about the world more than we think about ourselves. And if we want to finish the puzzle of Life, we need to show the world that we truly care about it by helping those who are most affected, not to be selfish and sadistic!"
Dante tries to glare at Kaiden, but Kaiden glares back. Or, at least, as much as his blind eyes can allow it. Sparks fly between the two men and it is clear that there could be a fierce confrontation.
But then, Dante has a change of mind. He falls on his knees and raises his hands in the air.
"Nothing good ever happens in our lives! Only pain and suffering!"- He exclaims- "My parents, they've always been on the edge. Saving an entire kingdom is no easy feat. But then, my father became possessed by that otherworldly fiend! And I... I... "
Kaiden leans forward and pats him on the back.
"There, there. Don't be feel sad."- He says to him- "Don't let your emotions define who you are. You're a hero, just like us."
Dante looks up.
"But do heroes... hurt each other?"
Kaiden sighs.
"Maybe."- He says- "But that's not the point. We're a big family, And where there's a family, there is respect and understanding."
Dante looks up at Geralt and the mayor. His expression softens. A little bit.
"I... need some time alone."- He says- "I need to go. I'm sorry."
As Dante stands up and leaves, the mayor stares at him and sighs.
"I think that the younger's been really misunderstood. Loving as his parents may have been, they never showed him the true meaning of life. He has to discover it himself."- He says- "For the time being, we'll make sure that he stays in Almaria. We'll monitor his status and inform you if something goes wrong. As for the money, it will get delivered to its destination. Our couriers are travelling, even as we speak. Everything will get better, I give you my word."
Geralt nods.
"Thank you very much, mayor."- He says- "From the bottom of my pure white heart, I thank you for deciding to keep my rebellious cousin in your humble city. I hope that he starts to believe in the light again soon."
The mayor nods.
"And so do we."- He responds- "Farewell, young Kaos. May the light be with you."
Geralt and his allies emerge outside and stand near the city gates. The guards watch them suspiciously, but they know better than to question the people who risked their own lives to save theirs.
"Well, he's gone. We're a trio now and that's... uhh... great. I suppose."- Aurelia says- "So. What should we do next? Any suggestions?"
Geralt sighs.
"Tomorrow, we go on a quest to learn."- He says- "We will educate ourselves and understand the true nature of this problem."
He stands near the west gate.
"Whenever you are ready."
Kaiden nods.
"If it's knowledge that we want, it's knowledge that we shall get."- He says- "The libraries are waiting for us. Let's search them."