If there was anything Balthier dreaded most, it was returning to The Imperial City of Archades. Well, at the very least he was accompanied by Fran and five… unlikely companions. The former Princess of Dalmasca, Ashe. Basch, a disgraced knight thought to have been deceased. Vaan, a thief whom Balthier and Fran had encountered in Rabanastre (and honestly the sole reason Balthier found himself in this mess to begin with). Penelo, Vaan’s childhood friend that was wrongfully kidnapped to be used against Balthier himself. And last but not least, you.

The cobblestone beneath Vaan’s feet thumps as the young boy jogs ahead of everyone in astonishment, absorbing the scenery around him. Penelo joins her friend shortly after, and Basch, not wishing to keep the young ones by themselves, inserts himself into their conversation. Ashe observes them from a short distance, while Balthier and Fran both stand behind the rest of the group.

This leaves you standing at Balthier’s left side, leaning back against a thick stone wall that serves as a railing to prevent anyone from falling below the city. A few small airships can easily be spotted flying overhead, which captures your own attention for a brief moment.