Exeuntes, a Story Based on Final Fantasy XV

Chapter XIX: Disaster

An Introductory Note:

Wow, an early chapter in February... what a surprise.

Song for this chapter:

30. Requiem in D Minor, K.626: IIIf. Sequenz. Lacrimosa dies illa by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Pictured:

Zegnautus Keep docked at Gralea, Empire of Niflheim

WARNING:

Some mature language and themes towards the end of the chapter. Reader discretion is advised.

September 26th, 2020 - This chapter has changed quite drastically. Give it a read!

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She can barely register the voices of those around her as she hits the ground. This... this can't be happening... can it?

Seeing the black miasma surround her, she surrenders, closing her eyes... for the final time.

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The Press Room is immediately launched into a frenzy as the events play out over the telecast. It is abruptly cut as a bullet enters Queen Mother Camelia's forehead, causing blood to spurt out.

"Your Royal Highness! Your Majesty!" reporters cry out, frantic to get to the prince regent and queen first. Gladiolus and the Kingsglaive rush in from outside the Press Room to form a barrier as they make a quick exit for the Emergency Room. Prompto, Ignis, Nyx, the remaining members of the Royal Council (who had joined them later), and Nathan and his friends follow suit.

After everyone finds themselves safely in the Emergency Room, they are able to catch their breaths. Queen Caelia looks faint as some Glaives try to stabilize her. Noctis and Ignis are locked in a heated discussion as Prompto listens. Domani, Nyx and Gladiolus join the members of the Royal Council in a separate discussion. Rhea and Vincent try to comfort Nathan who is barely able to keep himself upright.

"Alright, everyone! Order, please!" Ignis shouts, causing the room to immediately become silent, "Please take a seat around the meeting table in the adjoining room, we have a lot to discuss."

As Nathan takes a seat, he can't help but think of his own mother's death. Was it as gruesome as what I just saw? At least I didn't have to watch it play out live... He looks up to see Caelia sit next to him, her face still pale. Domani takes a seat to his right, concentrating on his phone as he rapidly types out words of worry.

Ignis clears his throat, "His Royal Highness would like to convene this emergency session of the Royal Council. As we have a few guests with us, we would also like to include them in the proceedings. Those against this motion, please raise your hand."

None of the Councilmembers raise their hands so Ignis sits down, letting the prince regent take over, "I... I'm not sure what to say at this point but on behalf of Lucis, I offer my deepest condolences to you, Queen Caelia," he says, turning towards her.

"Th-thank you, Your Highness. I am also not sure of what to say or do right now. I suppose I should speak with the Royal Chamber of Councillors in Altissia. Please excuse me," she decides, standing up from her chair and walking to the adjoining anteroom.

Watching her leave, Nathan can't help but feel absolutely powerless. He scans the room and notices that everyone else seems to share his feelings. As a Glaive closes the heavy door behind her, Noctis continues, "Um... alright then. With that... taken care of, I think we should decide what to do next."