Several weeks passed by. After the events in Altissia, the five friends were left shaken. Lunafreya was gone. Ignis lost his sight. Noctis obtained Leviathan's blessing and the ring at the cost of his beloved. But with few other options, they continued their journey. Their next step: retrieving the Crystal from Gralea. They were already on the western continent, and traveled by train toward Cartanica. Cor had informed them of a tomb hidden in the old mines there. And so, that's where they'd go. But the ride was quite uncomfortable, as the tension in the air was thick between them. Ignis and Prompto sat side by side, and Ryella was across from her boyfriend. Gladio had a seat behind Ignis and Prompto. As for Noctis, he sat alone on the opposite side of the train, staring down at the ring in his palm.

"So..." Prompto began, breaking the silence, "we're gonna roll through Tenebrae."

"Not before visiting the royal tomb in Cartanica," Ignis reminded.

"You're sure you're up to that?"

Ryella glanced between the two as they talked. "The wounds have mended," Ignis replied. "Eyesight's a matter of time."

All three hung their heads down, growing quiet. Gladio suddenly got up and walked over toward Noctis. "The hell is wrong with you?"

The young king looked up at him. "What?"

"We're not stopping in Tenebrae. You need to grow up and get over it."

Noctis jumped to his feet to confront the tattooed male. "I am over it. I'm here, aren't I?!"

Gladio snatched his jacket, yanking him closer. "Maybe when you're not to busy moping, you can look around and give a shit about someone worse off than you."

Prompto and Ryella looked at each other, worried and stunned. Ignis kept his head down, unable to see but listening closely. "Let go of me," Noctis demanded.

"How's that ring fit ya? You'd rather carry it around than wear it? She gave her life so you could do your duty, not so you could sit around feeling sorry for yourself."

"You don't think I know that?!"

"You don't! Ignis took one for you too, and for what?!"

"Enough, Gladio!" Ignis snapped, finally speaking up.

"You think you're a king," the shield continued, "but you're a coward."

"Shut up!" Noctis tried to shove him off, but Gladio didn't budge, so he grabbed his jacket as well.

Prompto quickly got up, holding a hand up toward Gladio. "Don't do this-!"

Gladio put a hand on the blond's face and effortlessly shoved him away. Prompto stumbled back, catching himself on the edge of Ryella's seat, leaning against it. The girl caught his arm, concerned.

"I get it, alright?!" Noctis yelled. "I get it!" He finally managed to shove Gladio off him.

"Then get a grip! Pull your head outta your ass already!"

Ryella had had enough of their arguing. She stood and swiftly got between them, letting her anger out. "That's enough!" she growled. "Both of you!"

With a furious scowl, Noctis twisted around and stormed off. Prompto watched him leave. Gladio then turned on his heel and marched away in the opposite direction. Ryella looked between them both and sighed, a sad frown on her lips. She could feel the waves of anger coming from Noctis. Prompto suddenly took her hand in his, tugging her back over to their seats. The girl sat by the window, her boyfriend by her side. Their hands stayed connected between them.

"Thank you, Ryella, for stepping in," Ignis said.

The Guardian looked over at him across from her. "Of course. I had to do something about their bickering."

Prompto smiled sadly. "Good job." He gave her temple a small peck. "So, um, have you ever been to Cartanica?"

"Flown over it before," Ryella replied. "Never really explored it much, and I certainly haven't been down in those old mines."

Prompto nodded in understanding. It grew quiet again, and even the gunman's cheerful personality couldn't lift the mood. He instead settled on simply cuddling up with his girlfriend. Ryella hummed a soft melody while leaning against Prompto. The boy wrapped an arm around her shoulders, and she reached up, lacing their fingers together. The brunette's other hand rested on his leg with his hand over hers. They stayed that way until the train slowed to a stop. Ignis took his cane in hand and stood. Ryella and Prompto both got up, guiding him through the train to the nearest door. As soon as they exited, they noticed both Noctis and Gladio stepping off the train as well, but from different cars of the train.

With Noctis immediately heading down to the elevator to the mines, the others followed. The king paused briefly, glancing back at his teammates, namely Ignis. He debated on whether it would be a good idea to have him wait for their return. But seeing his loyal advisor still advancing alongside them, he didn't have the heart to bring up his concern. He kept quiet instead, allowing the now blind man to accompany them as always. They all piled into the elevator and took it down. As they descended, Ryella caught a slight whiff of the earthy, swampy scent, and once they hit the bottom, it actually overpowered her sensitive nose. She covered her mouth and nose, trying hard not to gag.

"Ugh, the smell down here isn't very...pleasant."

Prompto sniffed the air. "Eh, it's not really that bad. Kind of a combo of plant and pond smells."

"Easy for you to say," she responded. "You're not the one with the sensitive nose." She slowly uncovered her face, taking small breaths to get accustomed to the aroma. "You guys turn around. I'm going to change forms, just in case."

She waited for them all to turn away before undressing. She left her clothes in the elevator and transformed. Once in dragon form, she purred to the others, letting them know she was ready to go. They got moving, their pace slower than usual to allow Ignis to keep up.

"Footing's bad," Gladio warned. "Watch your step."

Ignis sighed. "As best I can."

"Wanna let Ryella carry you?" the blond suggested. "I know she wouldn't mind."

Ryella looked down at Ignis for an answer. "Thank you, but I must decline. I must walk on my own two feet, whether I can see or not."

Once they made it down the sloping path, they came across shallow waters occupied by a group of gurangatch. Ryella snarled, preparing to fight. But once she stepped into the shallows, she felt her hands and feet touch the squishy, muddy bottom. It disgusted her, and she quickly stepped back, shaking her feet free of muck. The boys charged in though, not caring about the terrain. The dragon watched her comrades fight as she paced around the edge of the water. She kept her gaze on Ignis the most as he was attempting to battle in his condition. His movements were rather clumsy, and he often came close to being hit by their foes, but somehow, he came out unscathed, much to everyone's relief. As soon as the monsters were dead, Noctis looked at his advisor, glad to see he was unharmed.

"Hey, you should hang back," Noctis said.

"Was I in the way?" the blind man asked.

"No, you weren't. It's just..." The king sighed, not wanting to offend Ignis.

Gladio walked over to one of the paths that split off from the large area they were in. He remembered that Cor had told them the tomb was in the depths of the quarry. "Tomb must be down below."

Noctis hurried past him, leading the way again. Ryella flew over the pool of water to join them. Prompto laughed lightly at her. "Don't like that icky, swampy water, huh?" The Guardian shook her head in response.

After a downhill walk, the group stopped upon seeing an old piece of mining machinery blocking the path. "They parked here?" Gladio questioned.

"Wish we could write 'em a ticket," the gunman joked.

Ryella approached the machine, gazing up at it. Because of the thick vegetation, the openings above it weren't large enough for her to fit through. She stood up on her hind legs, placing her hands against the cold metal. She tried pushing it, using as much power as she could, but it still didn't budge at all. The dragon grumbled in irritation.

"Nothing but a giant roadblock," Gladio said.

"Ironic for a vehicle," Prompto added.

"If we get its motor running, perhaps we can move it out of the way," Ignis chimed in.

The five backtracked to the open area with all the water. There was a bunch of large machinery that looked like it connected to the part that was in their way. Below it all was what looked like a control panel. Noctis and Prompto both climbed the metal steps to where all the buttons and switches were located. Noctis found a power button and pressed it. The machine started up, smoke pouring from the smokestacks. But it shut back down as quickly as it had started up.

"What're you stopping for?" Gladio asked in an angry tone.

"I'm not," Noctis snapped.

Prompto went over to a board that gave instructions on the machine's usage. "Let's see here..." He began skimming the information. "In case of power failure, use backup generators. There's a key in the shed!"

Ryella abruptly flew up into the air. She scanned the area, catching sight of a shed close to a haven. She then flew down to the appropriate path and perched on a rock. She howled at them, signalling that that was the direction to go. Understanding, they all followed without question. Ryella was slightly frustrated by the fact that they were still being stubborn and angry...well, Noctis and Gladio were. She could easily fly them where they needed to go, but with two of them having a feud and one of them determined to act independent, there wasn't much she could do. She hoped that they'd work through their problems during their little venture, and if they didn't, she might just snap at them.

She led them along in the direction they needed to go. Night was swiftly approaching though. With daemons certain to spawn soon, Ryella went to the haven where she flopped down on her stomach, refusing to go further with darkness closing in. With no other options, they did as she wanted. That night, they ate Cup Noodles and sat in silence. Gladio didn't even join them around the fire because he didn't want to associate with Noctis. Prompto had his camera in hand, looking at his best friend.

"Took more photos today. You...wanna see?"

Noctis replied, "No, not really."

Prompto hung his head down and put his camera away. "Yeah. Of course."

Unable to handle the negative atmosphere, the gunman got up and went over to where Ryella was curled up. She moved her wing up, as if inviting him over. He took a seat at her side, leaning against her as she tucked her wing over him. He smiled lightly at her. She nudged him with the tip of her nose, causing him to hug her muzzle. She closed her eyes as he pressed his forehead against her snout. When they parted, the boy laid back against her soft fur, and Ryella settled to sleep. That night was quiet, and passed rather quickly. Before they knew it, it was already morning.

"We should get moving," Prompto said. "You okay, Ignis?"

"I'm fine. Don't mind me." His tone hinted at his slight aggravation. He was growing tired of feeling weak and having everyone worry about him.

It was just a short ways to the shed from the haven. With a fierce roar from Ryella, the pack of falxfangs patrolling the area were scared away. Noctis swiftly searched the old shed. There were rows of boxes piled up on shelves, and the black-haired boy found the key within one.

"Found it."

"That takes care of the key!" the blond said in a chipper voice.

"And the generators?" Ignis inquired.

"Apparently they're back by the control panels," Prompto answered. The five got moving again. With Ryella's help, they found both generators without much trouble, turning them on. "We've got the power!"

"Might not have it for long though," Gladio added. "Hurry up and move the machine."

The king had a sarcastic response to Gladio's demand. "Yes, sir."

They all backtracked to the control panel. "Hurry up," the shield urged. "Ain't got time to waste."

"Think I don't know that?" Noctis shot back.

He approached the controls, pressing the power button again. This time, the machine turned on and stayed on. They could even hear the machine that had blocked their path moving about. "Sounds like we're clear!" the gunman joyfully exclaimed.

Even Ignis cracked a smile. "Grand."

They all began heading for the once blocked path, seeing that the way was clear. "Hold up," Gladio suddenly said. Noctis turned to look at him while the others hung back. "You sure you're ready for this? You got what it takes?"

"To do what?" Noctis retorted.

The shield moved closer. "To face your ancestors and convince them to lend you their strength. Got a long road ahead." He crossed his arms. "Can you see this through? To the end?"

"Can and will," the king answered. "Whether I like it or not, I've got a duty to fulfill---as king."

"You're damn right, you do. Then that means you'd better start taking this seriously."

Gladio walked past him, continuing down the path. Ryella inwardly smiled. It wasn't exactly an apology or anything, but it was a start. Gladio was starting to speak what was on his mind, and Noctis was beginning to show resolve. The Guardian just wished they'd make up already. As they entered the new area, Ryella was hit by a strong, repulsive smell. She gagged, her tongue hanging out of her mouth. She felt like puking. Even the others were disgusted by the stench.

Prompto fanned the air in front of his face. "Man, something stinks around here. Don't slip and fall in whatever that is."

Upon reaching the bottom, there was another, swampy pool of water. Ryella remained on dry land again while the others waded in. There was a space in the wall that looked like a doorway, but it was covered in strange, pod-like eggs. A low growl erupted from the dragon's throat, and her eyes darted around the area. She had a bad feeling that they weren't alone. Before anyone could do anything about the eggs blocking the tomb, the ground under their feet rumbled. The four males twisted around as something began to rise up from the muck. A huge mouth full of teeth came into view.

"That looks like a mouth," Prompto pointed out. The creature rose up from the swamp water. "Is that its face?!"

It was a malboro that had been resting under the terrain, its tendrils wriggling about like worms. Ignis asked in a panic, "What? What is it?"

"Something real bad!" Noctis replied.

Ryella bravely stepped forward, roaring at the plant-like creature. She set aside her disgust and walked into the swampy water. The malboro turned toward her, seeing her as the biggest threat. It immediately began sucking in air, and spewed a thick smog. The white beast flapped her wings, keeping the substance from touching her. Several sprouts emerged from the nearby eggs, rushing out to help the adult malboro. The sprouts swarmed Ryella, biting at her feet. The dragon began shaking and swatting at them, but with their distraction, the malboro's Bad Breath engulfed her. She squealed, her senses completely thrown off. Her nose and throat burned, and her eyes stung and watered. She retreated to dry land, unable to see clearly, and furiously tried to rub her eyes free of the substance.

It was up to the boys to take care of the monster. But they quickly found their efforts futile. "It's useless," Gladio grimly said.

"What do we do with Ryella out?!" the blond cried.

Noctis gritted his teeth. "This might be a good time to panic."

Ignis refused to give in. "No. There must be a way!" The malboro prepared another Bad Breath attack, inhaling air. The blind man could hear its sharp intake and feel the air flow. It gave him a plan. "Noct, I have an idea. If I may..."

He reached into his jacket pocket, pulling out a magic flask full of fire magic. He tossed it right into the creature's open maw, causing it to burst into flames. The malboro burned to a crisp, and the sprouts fled in fear. It grew quiet as Ryella finally regained her vision, finding that the fight was over.

"Is it dead?" Ignis inquired, wanting confirmation.

Prompto grinned. "It is---and it's all thanks to Iggy! We'd be plant food if it wasn't for you."

"Happy to help."

Gladio scowled at Noct. "What, no royal commendation from His Majesty?"

The king muttered under his breath, "None for you, at least."

Prompto looked over to where Ryella was. "You okay, Ryella?"

She barked and nodded. Noctis then approached the eggs, summoning a bit of fire and incinerating them. With the way clear, he entered the tomb, collecting the Katana of the Warrior. With another royal arm acquired, the group began to leave.

"A moment?" Ignis abruptly spoke, causing the others to stop and look back at him. Ryella watched and listened from the water's edge.

"Is everything okay?" Gladio asked.

"It bloody well isn't. And I won't suffer this pointless bickering in silence any longer. Let's be frank. My vision hasn't improved, and probably won't. Yet in spite of this... I would remain with you all. Till the very end."

Sorry, but I object," the shield argued. "War is a matter of life and death."

Prompto was quick to defend the advisor. "But, we'll be there!"

"It's not about us looking out for him!"

"Uh-huh. Well, then he should be free to choose."

"There's more to it than just what he wants!"

"I know full well!" Ignis interrupted the two. "I won't ask you to slow down. If I can't keep up, I will bow out."

Gladio looked to Noctis. "What says His Majesty?"

"Noct, you are king." The black-haired boy set his gaze on his chamberlain. "One cannot lead by standing still. A king pushes onward always, accepting the consequences and never looking back." The blind man turned his head toward the shield. "Gladio, Noct will take his rightful place, but only once he's ready."

The tattooed male turned away. "Have it your way. We're still taking a big risk. We better all be ready."

Gladio began walking away, with Prompto following, but they froze when they realized Ryella was growling lighly at them. She was clearly angry at their silly arguments as well, finally showing it as Ignis did. She glared at Noctis and Gladio, her rage directed toward them. As soon as they all stepped out of the swamp, she scooped them all up in her arm, pressing them against her chest. She spread her wings and leapt up, flying a little ways before perching on a rock briefly, making sure she went the right way.

Noctis squirmed in her grip. "Ryella, put us down!" The dragon glanced down at him, giving a snarl of protest.

"Seems she's sick of your bickering as well," Ignis explained. "She's been silent this whole time, but she's been quite bothered since your little spat on the train."

No one else said a word as Ryella carried them back to the elevator. With her clothes still there waiting for her, she transformed and got dressed. Before long, the five were back at the station. Ryella immediately boarded the train in search of a bathroom to wash up, her eyes still bothering her a bit from the Bad Breath of the malboro.

Prompto trailed behind his girlfriend. "Ryella... Um, you're not still upset, are you?"

The girl paused, not looking back at him. She sighed. "I-I'm sorry. My behavior back there was...dreadful. I was just...so frustrated. You guys make such an amazing team, to see you fighting like that just..."

The boy placed a hand on her shoulder. "It's okay. I get it. You just didn't wanna see us act that way. But that's part of being a team. We laugh, we fight, we share our problems---just like anyone else."

Ryella smiled at him over her shoulder. "I know."

She took his hand, leading him along. They finally came to a small bathroom and went inside. Prompto gently took the girl's face in his hands, examining her eyes. "Your eyes definitely look irritated. They're kinda red."

She pulled his hands away and leaned over the sink, turning it on and splashing water onto her face. She rubbed her eyes lightly, running cool water over them. Fortunately, it didn't take long for her eyes to feel better. The blond handed her paper towels to dry her face. Once she finished up, the two left and went back out to the station where the others were. They were all preparing to reboard the train, and from the looks of it, Noctis and Gladio had made up.

"We're here for you," Noctis told the blind man.

Prompto grinned, he and Ryella rejoining them. "Yeah, let us help you." The train bell rang out, signalling that the train was preparing to depart. "And we're off!"

"Are we clear?" Gladio questioned.

Ignis gave a faint nod. "Crystal."

They began boarding the train. "Watch your step," Ryella warned.

She and Prompto led Ignis in, letting him follow them. Gladio and Noctis went after him, talking like true friends again. Now that they'd worked through their problems, it was time to continue the trip. Their next stop: Tenebrae.