A/N: Hey everyone, after a long and stressful month, I have returned again! Work has been keeping me very busy but I managed to use some spare time to do this (and man this took me a while with time and patience!) As you all know, I originally planned on publishing a new story on June but work had kept me occupied. I know some (or most) of you are surprised to this. This isn't a Kamen Rider crossover.

This is a different crossover entirely and to be honest, it feels refreshing. And yes, I am a big fan of Final Fantasy as this story is a crossover of Final Fantasy VII and Final Fantasy XIV. So, I decided to test out my writing on a different type of story that isn't Kamen Rider-related.

This story anyway was from inspiration after reading Final Fantasy: Lost Stranger and a few other manga during my free time.

Aside that matter, I would like to inform you all that the first few chapters will take place before the main events of Final Fantasy VII and this story will fellow the Final Fantasy VII Remake and the original Final Fantasy VII game together.

EDITS OF CHAPTER MADE AT JULY 16, 2020

Now let us begin the new story - Final Fantasy: The Lost Warrior

'Thought'

A pair of eyelids snapped open, their head pounding to the migraine in his head. A groan escaped their lips and the body ached like someone ripped out their soul. "Where… am I…?" The person groaned, the voice revealing to be male.

His eyes saw the dark-lit area yet they could hear the faint sound of something in his surroundings. It was obvious it was dusk but—wait, was it dusk from what he could recall before waking up?

The man grunted, slowly rolling himself over and harshly coughed, nearly vomiting his stomach contents. His left hand grasped his aching head after his breathing relaxed. Raising his head, his eyes traveled to the surroundings, the dark area being unfamiliar to him. What was this place? How did he get here?

Many questions about it crossed his mind but they were put to a halt when the fingers of his right hand felt cold. The person raised his hand and noticed a small puddle of water on the dirt floor.

Seeing the small patch of liquid, the man saw the small reflection (albeit slightly). His eyes were a brown color against light olive skin that held a somewhat mature look but with a young complexion and a noticeable scar that reached from the right cheek to below the jaw (under the ear). His appearance clearly in his early 20s as his somewhat ruffled yet short hair was black as the plumes of a raven. However his bangs (mostly the front-left half and a few small locks on the either side) faded into a natural snow white color (he even tugged it and saw the white hair was real much to his surprise given his age).

Then he looked at himself and took notice of his outfit.

Black, armored plating hugged his torso but it wasn't tight or uncomfortable. It was attached to a matching black shirt that hugged his fit and agile form. A special strap laid over the light armor on his chest diagonally with a dim red-orange glow. A similar piece dangling by the belt but smaller.

Over the thin armored chest plate was a slate gray coat that reached above the shin with the collar behind the neck being raised and curved. A belt strap was around the waist area of the jacket itself along with belt straps over the shoulders, down from the back in an intersection and down to the waistline of the piece of clothing. Gold buckles kept the straps in place. A pair of armored gauntlets reached up to his elbows while his hands held fingerless gloves themselves but held armor plating for protection. However what caught his curiosity was the accessory on the left side of his coat—A strap of cartridge carriers dangle on the lower left side of the coat.

His pants were a black color while armor wrapped his thighs and down to the ankles to provide protection for his legs and feet. To keep the pants in place was a belt with a few silver metal pieces seen on the strap itself with small holes in the center piece for style. On the feet were a set of laceless thigh boots to match the gear he was wearing.

Seeing his reflection and his outfit, a fragment of his mind was wondering why he looked like this. "Who…" He noticed his reflection but grunted again, clutching to the migraine that rose once more. It felt like something was jabbing a knife into his brain. When the migraine settled, his breathing became heavy by the experience. 'Xavier Blackburn... is my name.'

Why did the recollection of his name feel painful, literally? Why the sudden yet agonizing headache?

He brushed his hair with his hand, eliciting a breath of frustration. No, he shouldn't get upset. Being like that will get him nowhere. The lessons from Oboro and Master Musosai reminded him to keep his emotions in control, to keep his mind clear. He planned to move himself onto his feet but a faint glimmer caught his undivided attention.

It was a well-crafted weapon made of steel dipped in a black and gray-silver color. However, it wasn't a normal sword due to the revolver-like cylinder embedded above the hilt and the mechanism to it. Engravings decorated the black blade alongside the symbol of a crown near the tip. It looked amazing to his opinion. He picked up the sword in wonder.

His fingers brush against the special weapon. Memories again resurfacing from his mind upon the sight of the fine blade. 'My gunblade…'

A weapon used by people like him—the Gunbreakers. His brain reminded him of the other Gunbreakers like himself existing. He was the first Hyurian before Thancred to learn the true arts of a gunblade by Radovan as the latter's people (the Hrothgar) were the masters on the ways of a true gunblade. Unlike most Gunblades, the weapon in his hands was forged as a relic weapon thanks to Gerolt recreating the ancient blade.

However, the Gunbreaker remembered he was also a First Flame Lieutenant for the Immortal Flames. An Adventurer who traveled to Ul'dah to begin his quest as one such. More memories of his time in the land of Ul'Dah and other places flooded his mind. It felt nauseating but it quickly dissipated within a few minutes.

Now that's a relief.

His eyes drifted to the empty case, the color being silver yet held a unique design on it; a familiar symbol shaped as an eye. 'Could this be to carry it around?' He wondered.

Normally, he would carry it (if memory served him right) in hand during combat or over his back given he had no need for a sheath originally. With a shrug, he placed the gunblade into the case and closed it shut with a click. He slung the case over his back, keeping the strap snug against his shoulder. Then he noticed a satchel and looked inside it. The contents contained items which brought familiarity to his brain. It was two sets of clothes (his Scion attire), a variety of potions and ether, dye and glamour, six small crystals (similar to his Gunbreaker crystal), and a small sack containing gold coins; Gil. It was the inventory he kept throughout his travels.

With everything set (and brushing the dirt off his outfit), he took a deep breath. "Well… time to travel again," Xavier murmured and began his trek.

Okay… the place he was in was clearly not any he has been to or recognized. Not to mention the place was the slums given the experience he was able to recollect.

Just where was he?

"This isn't any place I've been to..." He looked at his surroundings in wonder. How did he get here and why did his head hurt with each minute?

The roads were of dirt. With neither wind nor rain to clear away refuse. Small buildings, ramshackle cottages, everything in this city seemed to be constructed from scraps of it. Looking up, he observed for the first time that even the sky had been replaced with a massive metal plate.

The whole damn place itself held a foul smell. Everything was in a shade of brown or grey, lit only by glaring lights broadcasting their jarring colours in the countdown till they blew or the power was cut.

He was familiar with Magitek given his encounter in the Garlean outposts and the travel on Azys Lla and the Srycus Tower with its Allagan technology.

…Yet the style of the lighting on a few buildings (including their structures) almost reminded him of-

"Grh!" He used the wall as support, grasping his aching head. Again, he was feeling that same pain as before. His mind filled with more memories that were of his own yet it eerily felt like they were forced into his mind.

Adventure, travel, hope, friends, and the joy of wonders yet there was death, betrayal, pain, loss, and war. A few memories caused him to shed tears.

The path of Light and Darkness.

Slowly, the pain subsided again and he wiped away the teardrops.

"What… the hells is wrong with me?" Xavier grimaced. The memories of his life were literally painful for him. What in the world was wrong with him? Why were the memories of his past painful to him? Why-

"I said leave me alone!" A female voiced hissed.

"Come on, baby. Don't be like that." A male voice said in a husky tone.

The Gunbreaker's train of thoughts were interrupted by the sound of distress and irritation in the female's voice. He pressed himself against the wall and took a glance at the source of the two voices.

The Hyurian man was wearing clothes that practically screamed the type who is up to no good. A thug.

However the woman was of average height, a few inches shorter than him. Her skin was a light color with no blemishes whatsoever. Her feline eyes were like emeralds against her delicate skin, her face bearing light brown markings that were natural. The neck-length hair was white as snow with blue highlights to add flair to her beauty, nearly covering her eye. The very beauty that made her an attractive specimen of all genders. The choice of clothes was something else. An elegant yet risque-like blue dress used by the Dancers but unlike the ones in Ul'Dah, it was the use of the weapons that are deadly if used right thus displayed her Dancer status was also part of being an Adventurer. The said circular blades seen on her slender hips that identify her class. The most unique feature about her were the tail and ears that signified her race.

A Miqo'te of the Seekers of the Sun.

"I am trying to find out about this place! Not to be around people like you!" She was distrustful of the man and obviously annoyed of his constant presence near her.

"I can show you around."

The Miqo'te scowled, "No." she turned away and planned to leave but she yelped when her tail was harshly grabbed. The one thing about Miqo'tes were the tails being a rather sensitive appendage.

A faint memory of another white haired Miqo'te having that similar predicament of her tail. That and getting blasted with Thunder by her. He shuddered at the memory.

"Oh, no you don't!" The thug spat harshly.

"Let go of me, you pervert!" The Miqo'te yelled, slapping away at his hands. She immediately froze when she felt cold metal pressed against her neck. Her eyes trailed to the weapon.

"Not a chance. I think the Don would be interested in having someone like you."

The Gunbreaker frowned before he chose to intervene. He approached from behind, earning the girl's attention. The thug was oblivious at first before the bastard had his arm grabbed and twisted, allowing the knife to fall and his body thrown to the cold dirt.

"She said no." Xavier warned.

"W-Who the hell are you?!"

At first Xavier was silent given his condition but decided to answer. "Just a guy making a good choice, unlike you." He kicked the knife away and glared at the thug. "Now leave her alone or that arm of yours won't exist."

The thug felt a cold chill to the threat before sprawling onto his feet and ran like a coward while shouting, "You will regret it!"

With the thug gone, Xavier grasped his face, taking deep breaths. What in the world is wrong with him? He acted differently for that brief moment – a protective side yet with it was defensively. He ran his hand down his face to calm himself and glanced at the girl. "Are you alright?" The Miqo'te took a step back out of caution, her eyes weary given what nearly happened. "H-Hey, it's alright. I'm not going to hurt you."

"How would I know you are not lying?"

The Warrior of Darkness/Light scratched his head. "I'm lost as you are. Last I checked, this isn't any other place in Eorzea I recognize."

The girl's brows raised in surprise. When she asked for directions to Ul'dah, no one recalled such a place but the person before her knew of the home continent. Her eyes trail to the bag and case. Then the gear he wore. A rare few Adventurers she met had similar gear but of different design and style.

"Are you… a Gunbreaker?" The Miqo'te realized.

"Uh yeah." He tapped the case over his shoulder. "L-Look, I know we just got off the wrong foot." He extended his hand. "I'm Xavier Blackburn. An Adventurer of Ul'dah's Guild and as you noticed, a Gunbreaker." He then thought, 'amongst other titles.'

The Miqo'te relaxed to hear the title 'Adventurer'. She didn't expect he was also in the same problem. Her emerald eyes drift to his hand and slowly grab hold. "I'm M'werla, an Adventurer of Ul'dah's Adventurer Guild like you. I am a-"

"Dancer, I figured." He pointed at her chakrams. "You really think I would assume those are just for show?"

The girl placed her hands on her hips, her lips pursed at the remark. "Says the gun-ho swordsman like some of you Gunbreakers."

"Oi."

At first they stared at each other with a minor glare before it changed into a fit of laughter. The tension now waned for the two. The snow haired Miqo'te glanced at the fellow Adventurer. "... I'm sorry for the treatment. Given where I am, well, we are, I'm just wary of those I meet."

Xavier raised his hand to assure her. "I understand the problem so you have every right to be wary of the unknown."

M'werla gave a nod of gratitude but noticed him losing balance while grasping his head. "Are you alright?"

"Just… headaches I have been suffering since I woke up."

The Miqo'te's brows furrowed in concern. It was obvious the headaches have been bothering him for quite a bit.

"So… how did you get here?" The Warrior of Light asked after his headache eased.

"A-Ah, well…" M'werla rubbed her arm. "I was taking a quest before this. When I finished the task, I tried to leave via Teleportation, but something went wrong."

The male Adventurer cocked an eyebrow in curiosity and asked her, "How so?"

"I thought I would return to Ul'dah to submit my report but instead… I ended up here. The locals looked at me and my appendages like I was extremely foreign to them when I asked them questions. Like they never saw my kin before."

The Miqo'te remembered how the people looked at her when she asked for directions. Some men ogled due to her choice of attire (which was a no-brainer) but what caught most people's attention were her ears and tail. Like she was something they had never seen before.

She looked at him. "What about you?"

Xavier grasped his head. "I'm… not sure how I got here exactly. That's what I want to know."

He honestly had no clue how he got here. All he can recall were memories of his time across Eorzea, Doma, and the other realm. That being said, he wanted to know where he was. "Say, M'werla, you said you asked the locals right?" The fellow Adventurer nodded. "Did you ask where you were?"

"Of course I did. They looked at me dumbfounded that I didn't know about this place. They said… Midgar I believe?"

"Midgar?" He was unfamiliar with the name of such a place. Its name almost reminded him of the places in Ishgard yet the architecture around them wasn't like that.

"So you don't know either?" The male Adventurer shook his head, making M'werla's shoulders slump. "So this place is nowhere we know of in Eorzea... just where are we?"

Xavier leaned against the wall, wondering the same. He has been to the region of Norvrandt in the First world but there was no place called Midgar. Not there nor in Eorzea or the other nations. The only term with the word 'Midgar' he can faintly recall was of Midgardsormr, the dragon who was the king of kings. Wise one the mighty beast was.

Was it a place in Garlemald? No, it couldn't be possible but the technology was somewhat akin to it. Could this place be a Reflection? That assumption crossed his mind but wasn't sure until it was proven.

Xavier felt a finger press against his cheek, surprising him as M'werla looked at him in confusion. "Everything alright? You're awfully quiet."

"Just thinking." He answered. "I've been to several places before, but none like this." The Bringer of Light pushed himself away from the wall. "I think the best choice, for now, is to find out which continent exactly Midgar is in."

The sound of grumbling earned his attention. The girl's cheeks flushed pink in embarrassment.

"And probably some food."

"A-Agreed." She hadn't eaten food ever since she took the quest in Ul'dah.

"Question is…" The gunbreaker looked around. "Where to?"

With no familiarity of the area, he was as lost as a wanderer in the snowy plains of Ishgard.

M'werla tapped her chin for a moment before she recalled overhearing about a tavern. "What about the nearest tavern?"

The Hyurian glanced at the fellow Adventurer. A tavern. Places like that were bound to have some information regarding the area; be it from the drunkards (who were possibly bound to spill words at some point), a worker of the tavern, or the owner. Tataru would have agreed to the Miqo'te's suggestion, the kind Lalafell Tataru was to the Scions and seen as family as they all were together.

"Any idea where this tavern is?" The Miqo'te shrugged. "Figures…"

"All I know is its name – 7th Heaven."

"7th Heaven…" the male Adventurer registered the name. "Alright, guess we have to look around for that place then."

"Wait!" M'werla called, earning a confused look from Xavier. "Do… you have a cloak I can borrow?"

The Miqo'te adjusted the cloak to shroud her form and conceal her ears and tail. She wasn't sure why people looked at her differently due to her natural traits. The area held no other race such as the Lalafell, Roegadyn, Elezen, Au Ra, Viera, or even Hrothgar – not a single one. Every single individual in the slums was nothing but Midlander Hyureans. Their clothes looked different than the ones she was familiar with in Eorzea.

A few individuals moved away from the Gunbreaker as she followed closely behind. Some looked at him warily. His appearance would make most see him as a warrior due to the gear he held. The case concealed the weapon while it held the symbol of an eye. The symbol itself was familiar to her, including the Adventurer's own name. She swore she heard that name somewhere.

Her emerald eyes drifted to the locals again. A few looked at her, forcing her to face forward. Everyone here was unknown to her. It wasn't paranoia but rather how she lived in the past. She grew up in the streets of Ul'dah. Some would say it was normal given how refugees constantly arrive but it wasn't.

To earn a coin as a refugee was tough and people would do anything to find a place inside Ul'dah. If not, they had to live in the tents while fearfully praying they are not killed by either the monsters, bandits, or beastmen.

As a Dancer, her dancing served as a method to earn Gil. Despite being one, she also used it as a method to fight. A dual purpose if you can call it. Elegance that can be deadly. Being an Adventurer wasn't just for the sake of wonder, glory, or even fortune. It was of inspiration - by the Warrior of Light. She never knew who that person was due to the armor concealing his identity but she hoped one day she could meet the legendary warrior again. She never got his name.

"Uh, M'werla?"

The Gunbreaker's voice interrupted her train of thought. She raised her head slightly to notice his glance.

"U-Uh, yeah?" She asked.

"You said 7th Heaven, right?" The Miqo'te nodded. "Well, I think we're here."

M'werla looked up higher to the sign that clearly said 7th Heaven. The place itself obviously gave the guess it was a tavern when her nose twitched by the faint smell of the area, and the alcohol.

"Ugh, the air smells disgusting." She winced. "Better be clean inside. I really can't stand the smell in these slums anymore."

"You and me both."

The two Adventurers walked up the steps before entering the tavern. The interior was far better than the outside of the place as the wooden floors were kept clean, a few lights lit the ceiling to brighten the tavern. Several tables were occupied as were a couple of the stools. The music was fairly moderate to calm the customers given the life in the slums. A few customers took heed of the two (some mostly taking heed of the Gunbreaker) before going back to their meal or drinks.

Choosing to sit by the counter, M'werla and Xavier took their seats. Hopefully they can get information regarding the town they are in from overhearing the patrons or asking the worker of the tavern.

"You guys need something to drink?"

Several minutes earlier...

The bar was subtle with customers as the employee behind the counter cleaned the glasses used by the previous patrons of the 7th Heaven.

The employee wore a leather miniskirt adorned with pleated segments. A black sports bra and white tank top hugged her buxom torso nicely while the miniskirt was held with suspenders. Her long dark hair was bound near her waist by a simple red leather ribbon. A pair of padded, metal-studded gloves wrapped her hands due to her expertise as a fighter. On her feet were matching red boots along with a pair of black stockings that reach up to her thighs.

She was Tifa Lockhart, owner of the 7th Heaven, and a brawler taught by Zangan. She knew much about life in Midgar. With the city split into 8 sectors, those who live below the plates were living poorly with the lifestyle. Would she blame Shinra? Very much so.

Being the owner of the bar, she had her fair share of the usual due to the routines every day. Those who take things too far in the bar are met with her friend who would throw them out for their drunk stupidity. Then there was her friend's kind daughter. Most would say she acted mature than other children her age but she wouldn't blame the girl. With Barret's other task being his usual routine, she doesn't question it.

Her reddish-brown eyes drift to the customers who come and go. It was the usual almost every day. However none could compare to the two customers who entered on this day.

The cloaked individual was obviously female due to the cloak accentuating her frame slightly. The girl's complexion was flawless and a year or two younger than her, possibly in her late teens with surprising white hair that was barely noticeable due to the hood. What was odd were the woman's emerald eyes. They were cat-like and not glowing like the SOLDIERs along with noticeable markings on her cheeks. She was sure the markings were not tattoos given they were too natural against the girl's face. The hood of the cloak seemed to have two protrusions which was odd but figured it was probably to add some style to the bland cloak.

The other individual was a man around her age but his attire had set her on edge. He reminded Tifa of one of the SOLDIERs minus the glowing blue or green eyes. For the man, his short hair was jet black but it faded into a natural white in the front surprisingly, mostly the left side. Could he have been born with the dual hair color? The most noticeable thing aside from his battle attire and unique hair color was the long scar on his face. It ran from the right cheek to below the jaw, marring his young complexion. Clearly, the person had his fair share of fights.

She watched the girl adjust the cloak and stood by the coated man upon entering. The duo approached the counter and took their seats. The two must be acquaintances.

"You guys need something to drink?" Tifa asked the two.

"Water and a good meal, please." The hooded girl requested.

"...Same." The black-white haired combatant agreed albeit with slight hesitation.

Both seemed tired and if one could see in the man's eyes, it displayed its fair share of good will but look deeper, it was pain. Someone who has seen war and death.

"Long day?"

The dark-clothed man sighed, his chin resting on his palm. "Somewhat." He glanced at the girl who nodded in agreement. "We're just… trying to adjust." The hooded woman added bitterly.

Adjust? That made her curious but given their outfits (the girl's outfit hidden), they must have been doing something. The cat-eyed girl didn't look to be in the mood to speak to her; in fact it sounded like she didn't even trust her.

Sheesh, who barked up her tree?

After she cooked the two of their meals, Tifa set the plates and glasses of water in front of them. "Here you go. Enjoy." Tifa smiled.

"Thanks." The young man returned a thin smile of his own. His smile faltered suddenly, "Er… you accept Gil right?"

Tifa raised an eyebrow. What kind of dumb question was that? "Of course." She watched him reach into a pouch and fiddled before producing something that utterly astonished her.

Her eyes widened at the gold coin. The currency was obvious due to the shape but to see gold was unbelievable. Tifa quickly used a shot glass to cover it and made sure the others didn't see it. "Are you guys insane?!" She hissed quietly, her voice low enough for only the two to hear. "Don't show something like that here!"

The dark-clothed person blinked in confusion. "Eh?"

"What do you mean? You said you accept Gil." The hooded girl inquired.

"Yeah but something like this?!" The dark-haired woman pointed at the gold coin under the glass. "You are only going to draw too much attention!"

Never before has she expected the two individuals to carry that much coins that are worth thousands. Gold was a very valuable object in Gaia.

How on Gaia would they refer to their gold coins as Gil?! Gil was mainly silver, not gold! The objects in the glass looked to be very valuable! Her eyes drift to the busy patrons then at the two odd customers. Whoever they are, clearly weren't locals. "Just don't casually show it here." The buxom brawler sighed and reluctantly accepted the coin. She didn't want the two to be mugged in any lower Sector for such items that would set anyone for years.

"Uh… okay?"

Tifa carefully checked the coin and attempted to bend it but to no avail. In fact, the coin couldn't bend at all unlike the silver Gil with the right amount of strength put into it. Silver Gil was one thing but a gold Gil? Gold Gil coins are unheard of.

'Who in Gaia are these two?' It raised questions. The dark-clothed individual didn't look to be SOLDIER with their glowing eyes since his eyes were brown while the girl was definitely unique due to her eyes. Neither looked to be from here. The case the coated man had against the stool must be of importance given the eye-like insignia embroidered on it.

The length and width meant one thing: a concealed weapon. That alone made her cautious.

"Excuse me." Tifa looked at the two. "You… wouldn't happen to have a map of the area?"

"Uh, yeah, sure." Lost was definitely the right word about the duo. The brunette produced a map of Midgar for the two from below the counter, allowing them to eat while studying the layout of the city and its outskirts (Aside from the coated man's wariness when he looked at his water for a brief moment before drinking it).

Tifa focused on cleaning the glass but not while giving a small glance out of suspicion and confusion. Their eyes were moving fast on the map of Midgar but they looked bewildered and shocked for some reason. She swore the protrusions on the girl's hood twitched upward.

Odd.

Originally it wouldn't be her business to ask but if one person was garbed in battle gear that almost screams SOLDIER and carrying a possible concealed weapon, she was bound to be cautious. One hand remained clenched out of precaution.

The doors opened again, notifying another customer entering the bar. Xavier and M'Werla gave a brief glance to see who it was.

The man was dressed in green tactical cargo pants and wore a ripped brown vest that exposed the black clothing underneath. He wore cargo-style pants, and his boots were zipper-back styled. Over his eyes were a pair of dark spectacles that even shadowed them. What surprised the two Adventurers the most about this man was the large gun that had been grafted into his right arm, completely replacing half of the limb while the left arm held a skull tattoo. The man looked downright dangerous and intimidating.

To the two Adventurers, they didn't feel intimidated given their experience against beasts and bandits unlike the other bar patrons. Well, in Xavier's case, it was facing monsters (and wyrms aka dragons), bandits, and the godly Primals (including his days in battle against the Garlean Empire across Eorzea and Doma).

Each step he took made some of the patrons tense and not looking at the tall man. It was obvious the man was either the owner or a friend to the woman judging from how she didn't seem nervous or intimidated by his presence unlike the customers.

The Adventurers focused on the map again and gave one hard look at it. The entirety of it being an unknown place to them both. It came to a conclusion regarding their location. They even compared it to their own maps from their journals. With realization kicking in, the two quickly finished their meals and stood up.

"Thank you for the meal," The cloaked girl gave a curt bow of gratitude before she and her companion left the bar.

The moment they stepped out of the tavern, the other patrons scurried out after hearing threatening shouts from the big man from earlier.

Yup, that man was definitely the owner.

What they didn't realize was the real owner of the bar happened to be the woman they spoke to.

With all the customers gone (albeit forced) for the night, Tifa sighed and rotated the sign on the door to notify the place was closed. To others, it was due to hours (or Barret) but in reality, the place served as a hideout.

"Everything alright, Barret?" Tifa asked the man.

"Just another damn problem with Shinra." The now named Barret grunted in irritation. "Is Marlene alright?"

"Yeah, she's fast asleep."

The man sighed in relief and took a seat as did the woman. "Good. The thing that irritated me is when the others went to scout out the area of the Reactors, they saw them leaving Sector 3."

Tifa bit her lip apprehensively. "Great..." She knew who he were referring to. Shinra's three special agents. She remembered the rumors of three people who were extremely dangerous to the organization due to their supposed 'reputation' as former generals or leader of a supposed squad.

Armored and dangerous being the best way to describe them. Looking down at the people below the Plates like rats which pissed her off. However due to a loss of a few cells by the three, there was no doubt they weren't to be messed with. "So Sector 3 is a no go…"

"Damn annoyance is what it is. We have been at this for a while but with those armored punks patrolling the Sectors in the upper plates, this shit will be difficult to get done. Unless we find better manpower, AVALANCHE will be sitting ducks if those three continue to find the other cells."

Tifa had to agree with him. They had to act quick or the three agents would eventually find their hideout. There was a reason why she joined AVALANCHE but she didn't want to see the organization fall by the hands of Shinra.

The sooner they find a way to stop Shinra, the better hope they have of protecting the planet. The brawler paused, reminded of the recent development she discovered. "Say Barret, I should have told you what happened here."

"Did someone get drunk and tried to start a mess in here again?" The tall man guessed.

"No. Well, no troubles despite a few being drunk." Tifa presented the gold coin. "Look at this."

Barret took the coin from her palm to observe closely. "The hell? I thought Gil was supposed to be silver."

"It's gold, Barret." She compared several other gold coins she was given by the customer to the current Gil they use. "Actual gold."

"What?! How the hell did ya come across this?!"

Tifa gave a glance at the door. "The two customers who left first when you arrived had two pouches full of it. I don't know about you but the guy that was with the girl in the cloak was geared for a fight."

Now that Barret recalled. Only a clueless idiot wouldn't guess the man from before was ready for a fight and the case was merely holding a weapon. The girl was wearing the cloak to conceal her appearance albeit revealing her face.

Was the man working as a protective detail? A bodyguard? Those were possible assumptions. He didn't want to assume the man was a Shinra Operative but from the way he was shown it all.

"Are they-"

Tifa quickly cut him off and said, "Don't know." She wasn't sure if the man even worked for Shinra due to their reactions. "The two were really spooked when they looked at the map."

"What got them so spooked when they looked at the map?"

"I'm not sure." The brawler was as confused as her friend was regarding the two mysterious customers. "I did notice they were comparing the map with the booklets they had with them."

Barret raised an eyebrow. Something clearly was up based on Tifa's explanation. To carry vast amounts of gold coins, comparing the map to their journals, and one of them wearing gear made similarly for a SOLDIER? It was suspicious.

The question is, who were they?

The two Adventurers sat against the wall of a building while reeling to the reality of their situation. Neither of them were in Eorzea (or the First in Xavier's case). No, they were in a place that wasn't the world of Hydaelyn. It was another world entirely. There were no sights of any Aetheryte Shards to attune to Teleport back to Ul'Dah. Thus… there was no way to return to their homeland.

"This is impossible…" M'werla uttered, grasping the hem of the cloak in shock. "W-We're not in Eorzea anymore."

Xavier however was astonished by the predicament. While the possibility of other stars were existent given the Omega and Midgardsormr's origins, including his time in the First, it was obvious this star was another world. Would the great dragon know of this world? He could try to call him but he wasn't sure if the great dragon would appear.

"What are we going to do?!" The Miqo'te yelped when she felt a flick to the forehead. She rubbed her head and noticed Xavier being responsible. "What was that for?!"

"Don't panic. As much as it is right to do so, shouldn't we focus on coming with a plan?"

"... what?"

The Bringer of Light sighed. "What I mean is that we must remain calm and find a way to return to our realm." If his old friend G'raha Tia was able to transport his fellow Scions (albeit unintentionally at first) and then him, to the First, then there is bound to be a different method to return to the Source. Soul and body-wise, of course.

"O-Oh…"

"So take a deep breath and relax." The older Adventurer advised.

The snow-haired Adventurer took a deep breath and allowed her body to relax. Her mind started to calm from the recent panic she had. "Do… you have any idea how we can find a way back?"

"I'm not sure." He caught the girl's glum look. "However, that doesn't mean we should give up here and now. We're Adventurers, right?" Immediately, the Miqo'te nodded. "Then let's find a way back as a party."

M'werla felt a rising sense of confidence by his statement. Adventurers were known to form parties to explore, even sticking together from day one as such. While she has been with a few parties in the past, this was going to be a two person party.

"So, ready for the sense of adventure?" The monochrome-haired Gunbreaker asked.

The Miqo'te ears were raised under her hood and she nodded excitedly to an adventure. "You bet!" She paused. "Uh… so which way?"

Xavier clicked his tongue. "Ah… well, for now we can explore these… 'sectors' from what the map explained." It was obvious Midgar was separated into eight sections, a high level and the lower level. "That way we can fully understand how this city runs and from there, a way to return to Eorzea."

"Got it." The snow-haired girl understood. If they can understand the city and their methods, they would be able to find a way back home.

With their decision set into motion, the two Adventurers brushed the dirt off the back of their outfits and began their trek across 'Sector 7' based on the name of the location on the map they observed earlier.

The place was still surreal as they were in a new world. To Xavier, he knew the possibility of other stars (worlds) existed due to Midgardsomr and Omega's home worlds. But to be in another world aside the First and Source? It was astonishing.

M'werla however, looked at her surroundings in wonder. Never before had she seen such unique places especially in another world. She always wondered if there were other worlds but most would consider it outlandish. Seeing this right before her eyes proved there was another world. At least she wasn't alone here.

Diverting her attention to the male Adventurer, her emerald eyes trail to the case that carried his weapon, more specifically the insignia. The Dancer stared at the case in growing curiosity, the symbol now becoming very familiar to her. Now she knew where she had seen it before!

"Hey Xavier."

"Yeah?"

"I wanted to ask about that symbol on the case. Is it the symbol of the Sci-" she was interrupted when she was shoved aside slightly by the shoulder, nearly putting her off her feet.

Xavier however helped her stay still. "Are you alright?"

"Y-Yeah. Why did he do that?" The female Miqo'te wondered in irritation.

Xavier looked ahead but instead of someone chasing after the person, others were running away as well with haste. Now this was leaving the two with questions.

"Why is everyone running?" M'werla noticed the frightened looks from the locals. A few had to quickly close their shops while others gave shelter to their fellow people in order to hide.

Wondering what was happening, Xavier stopped one of the civilians. "Excuse me, what's going on?"

"Numerous monsters breached the fence!"

"Monsters?" Xavier and M'werla looked at each other in surprise at the answer. There was an existence of creatures in Midgar, much like in Eorzea.

"I would hide until the Neighborhood Watch handles them!" said the civilian as he ran to the safest place to hide.

"Neighbor… hood Watch?" M'werla repeated. "Never heard of them."

"Me either but if monsters are scurrying around and harm the civilians, we better handle them before it gets out of hand." Xavier decided.

"Right." It was similar to a few quests they took in Eorzea so this was no different than monster extermination.

The duo made haste as the fleeing locals ran past them. Some would question why they are heading towards the monsters but mistakenly assume they are part of Neighborhood Watch.

Upon arriving on the scene, the two Adventurers saw the monsters that were mentioned. The creatures they saw were almost insect-like but were knee-high in height while having gaping maws that look to devour a limb with ease. The said creatures scurrying like a swarm of insects due to the numbers.

M'werla whined. "Bugs again…" she had enough large insects to deal with. The quest she took was the involvement of the giant worms in the sands of a village which sent a shiver down her spine.

"At least they aren't sandworms." The male Adventurer quipped.

"Please don't." She hated those sand crawlers. "Let's just deal with them. I had enough bugs to deal with."

"Fine by me."

"What are you two doing?" The voice earned their attention and turned to the source, seeing two people jogging up to them.

One of the men was tall and thin, and his dark hair was tied back with a red bandana to keep it up. He was dressed in an olive green short sleeve shirt and a pair of tactical pants that were a slight darker shade of green. The man that was with him was shorter and heftier. His messy black hair was partially covered by yet another red bandana, and he wore blue pants, double metal shoulder pauldrons with a white t-shirt underneath.

The other thing to notice was the two carried weapons. Given certain individuals use of their guns, Xavier knew the two carried one such. He should know due to his experience with a firearm.

"You guys should get somewhere safe before those monsters get close." The man with the barreled firearm advised.

Xavier chuckled much to their confusion. The two men really shouldn't judge a book by its cover. "Don't worry, the both of us got this." The gray-coated man assured the two.

"Huh?"

The monochrome-haired swordsman flicked open the case and allowed it to drop onto the dirt floor and twirled the noble Gunblade Relic, the Crownsblade, in hand. The sight of the weapon surprised the two.

Xavier's eyes hardened while M'werla plucked her chakrams from under her cloak, keeping her heels above the dirt floor in preparation for her movement. This surprised them more upon seeing the girl had weapons hidden by the cloak.

The male Adventurer rested the weapon over his shoulder. "Let's get started."

A/N: Well that completes the first chapter to this new story. I know some of you may be surprised by this but I hope you guys like this and you too are fans of Final Fantasy VII and Final Fantasy XIV. As you all know in Final Fantasy XIV, the Warrior of Light is basically the player itself (including selected race, gender, and appearance) thus the protagonist is basically one the player created.

As to the possible pairings? That I am still debating on but I might do pairings in this. But again, on debate but I'll probably put up a poll if the debate is still ongoing.

I want to again thank one of the Beta-Readers for helping me in this. I plan to do another FFXIV story soon but that will wait for a bit. If you want to see more of this story, feel free to let me know and I'll answer any questions you guys have. Don't forget to leave a review, favorite and follow! Til then see you guys later!