[ It's really a test of faith on all their fronts. Something they should be used to by now, shouldn't it? So often they have had to push forward on belief and hope, but those ends were always founded on the paths that they themselves paved.

This is just another they will have to see through to the end. While Himeka felt she did a poor job back when they were forced to flee to Coerthas, she now has the conviction and ability to reassure those she sees under her care. Alphinaud is more than capable of taking care of himself, of course, but it is nearly impossible not to become attached to both Alphinaud and his sister in seeing them grow over the years. To be part of that.

Himeka nods once, a smile returning, though a placid one. ]

As we understand it, yes. As long as our shards remain intact, we should return.

[ However... ]

...I'll admit this isn't how I was hoping to test our understanding.