[FFXIV] Bridge to the Heavens /「 天へと至る橋 」

... What is it? You are doubting now... What is that grips you in paralyzing stillness, and makes you so hesitant to take another step forward against your will? Ah... I see. You do not glimpse any path ahead of you, as it is shrouded in shadows. You fear that, if you take a step into the darkness, you will fall into blackest void, for all of eternity, or to your own death. It is understandable. The human heart fears that which it knows not and feels strange. And faced with darkness, it reviles it, fearing the horrors that might lurk in the shadows... gripping it with ink-black, cold despair. But that is a shame... for at the same time, it is this fear which makes you miss beauty you would have never imagined, waiting just beyond the edge of what you consider 'safe', if only a seed of courage would sprout from within your own darkness. The gilded cage offers kind tranquility and comfort, contrary to the call of freedom that spurs the soul into unfurling its wings. That is why you cling to the Light that illuminates what is already known and that which you believe it has already been revealed. It discourages you to dig deeper―making you avoid the dark depths where hidden marvels await. And thus the security of the prison's walls is more enticing than the promise of Liberty. Clinging to what is known in the Light, instead of taking a leap of faith into Darkness. You tried to preserve the reality you have known since birth. You thought that by fighting Death, you would ensure the light of your world's future. Ah... and now you realize the bitter truth: that no matter how much you tried to avoid the rift, tried to find different paths, every road brings you back to the edge between Light and Dark. And you long to cross the rift as much as you fear it. No matter how much you try to deny it. It is only natural. Human hearts do long for freedom they once knew. Some flames cannot be forgotten nor unlearned by the soul. Are you ready to listen to me now? Then close your eyes... and give me your hand. Do you trust me? Are you willing to find where ancient stars still shine—even if he who holds the key of your destiny is someone you once thought your foe? You need but remember what is the 'principle' that has ever guided you, in your present, your past, and your future. Hold it close to your heart—do not let it falter or let it be stained or bleach. Believe in the truth of your soul, and it shall break your chains and set you free. Can you see it now? The bridge of light, across the rift and through the dark, leading you to the very heavens. Now, it is time for you to cross over―until we meet again on the other side, where the embers of hope are still aglow. But before you do, just keep this close in mind and heart... The truths I confide to you now, to light your path no matter where you walk. Where man cannot reach, he tends a bridge. Where man is condemned to walk in chains, he dreams of flight. And what he cannot achieve on his own, he will attain by joining hands with his kin—reaching new heights and conquering the unknown. Do not try to fight the inevitable. Creation's will has ever been tending bridges―uniting distant worlds and kindred souls, mending rifts and joining hearts. For the real path unto the heavens, the bridge between souls and stars, is built from hands entwined. And this is why I know―we shall reunite once more at the end of our bridge to defy she who would keep us imprisoned eternally. I will be waiting for you, my love, to cross the last bridge and brave the final frontier together. FINAL FANTASY XIV © SQUARE-ENIX Lyrics & Art © ShadowMeowth (Agnus Dheir)