The group went back to the kitchen as a whole, chatting and cheers to be had. Once everyone had been seated, Emiri and Grant served the group, then sat down to eat themselves. There was a comfortable silence as they ate, though Nadeline's smile couldn't get wider even if she tried. Once the group finished, Emiri went around collecting plates and refilling cups of coffee. At the back of Nadeline's head, however there was one tiny little detail that she did not consider in the heat of the moment. Then again, it could be dealt with later, right now she wanted to enjoy the moment.

The silence they all sat in was a comfortable one. Everyone was just too happy for the newly-engaged couples. Sure, there were some words thrown here and there, but for the most part it was silence. Well, except for the sounds of forks hitting the plates and burps being let out by Jaakuna and Savayna, but they have no table manners, so it wasn’t really fair to group that with the rest of them. Aside that, however, there wasn’t any sounds. When everyone was done eating, Emiri would collect the plates, and refill everyone’s cups with freshly brewed coffee that was just getting done as she started to pour it. When they each had their coffee and to their liking, Jaakuna would sip it and then set it down. He figured now was a good as time as any.

“Okay, there’s something I have to tell you guys that Emiri didn’t yesterday.” He said biting his lip. “I really can’t comprehend it myself, so just let me say it all and then give comments please.” Jaakuna said as he thought about the best way to tell them. After thinking about it for a minute, he figured just to go for it. “Okay, so The Voice? Well that was my father. I guess, according to him, his soul was trapped in The Great Crystal by my grandfather, Hamut Darcone. I really don’t know how, but the why is pretty simple.” Jaakuna said as he thought about it carefully. “My father, back when he was still emperor, was going to sit down with the leaders of the Rozarrian and Dalmascan empires to settle for a truce. My grandfather didn’t like any of that, so through some unknown method, my grandfather sealed his own son’s soul within Giruvegan.”

Jaakuna continued. “Furthermore, my father has seen everything that has happened through my eyes. I really don’t understand it myself, but he knew about why Vincent kidnapped Emiri. “ JAakuna said, “He did it to heal my father, but Vincent didn’t even know about our father’s soul being trapped in Giruvegan, but obviously he thought our father was just dead or something like that.” Jaakuna continued. “He went on to further explain that he needed my help to get to his body. Now, for that to happen, my father requested that I allow his soul to enter my body.” Jaakuna just realized how that sounded. “And no, it’s not like two minds, one body type of thing. It’s more like how it is with the Espers — their inside you, but as a part of your magick.” It was getting weirder and weirder as he further the explanation. “So yeah, my father’s soul is currently inside my own body and the new marking you see on my left arm.” Jaakuna showed the group the new marking. “Well, say hello to my father.” Jaakuna joked and laughed.

When Jaakuna explained, both Wesley was dumbfounded and shocked. His eyes was widened and they literally had no words on the matter at the moment. It wasn’t that he couldn’t respond(he definitely could), but it was just he didn’t know how to properly respond without thinking Jaakuna had lost it. However, Savayna would speak her mind.

“Well, guys and gals, it’s official.” She said, “Jaakuna has officially lost it.”

Nadeline knew that damned voice was bad news, and this only confirmed it. She listened carefully to Jaakuna and his explanation, and the entire thing just spelled out 'bad idea'. She looked at Jaakuna, and then at Emiri. Savayna may have thought Jaakuna had lost it, but she understood why Emiri didn't say anything yesterday. What she found difficult to believe, however, was the fact that Emiri let him go through with it. What in the world were they both thinking? Emiri couldn't help but shift in her seat, knowing Nadeline's once happy smile had degraded into a glare so fierce, and it was aimed right at her. She avoided eye contact for the most part. Grant was slightly confused, but he didn't think Jaakuna had been making it up. It did make him somewhat curious, though.

"Alright, so you have your father's soul. What do you plan to do with it?" He asked somewhat uncertainly.

"Return it to his body...in Archades." Emiri replied quietly.

At this point Nadeline threw daggers at Emiri, though she quickly turned them to Jaakuna. "Is this true?" She asked him, her voice rather low. Grant let out a small sigh, shaking his head at her. "You're comfortable going back there?" Nadeline asked him.

"I didn't say that." Grant replied.

Glares were shot to both Emiri and Jaakuna. Grant would ask what they planned on doing with Jaakuna’s father’s soul and Emiri nervously answered and Jaakuna getting a little worried about the group’s happy level. Before all of this, the mood was celebrating Wesley and Nadeline’s engagement and now it was shifted to the possibility of going back to Archades. The entire thing made the group feel uneasy and even when Nadeline would ask if Grant was comfortable going back to that place and he would respond by saying that wasn’t what he said.

As everyone would just feel unsure about this all, Jaakuna would clear his throat. “If you want anyone to blame, then blame me.” Jaakuna said. “I was the one who agreed to my father’s request.” Jaakuna stated.

When Jaakuna said that, Wesley would now speak. “So, your grandfather was the one who did this huh? I knew there was something not to trust about that man.” Wesley said. “That’s all the more reason to think about our next course of action.” Wesley offered up.

Savayna went from joking to being severely pissed. “Who is to say that whoever Jaakuna absorbed into his body is even his father?” Savayna asked clearly pissed and a little confused about it all. “For all we know, Jaakuna lowered his guard to someone that looked like his father. This person could very well be someone else pretending to be Simon.” Savayna was really pissed.

When she spoke, Jaakuna flared up into a standing position, pounding the table with open hands. “THAT’S ENOUGH! YOU DON’T THINK I DON’T KNOW MY OWN FATHER! Not like you would know Savayna, you barely could stand the guy, even all those years ago. “ Jaakuna had lost it, but after a good few seconds, he regained his composure.

Savayna eyed Jaakuna with dirty looks. “Low blow! Your father might’ve not liked me that much, but I did like him, thank you very much. Gods, you are just like your father. You have his quick temper.” She would say in a very loud huff.

Wesley would intervene. “This is what I meant. We need to think about everything. Whether or not Simon is who he said he was and how we can get him to his body.” Wesley said as he was struck by a wonderful idea. “Nadeline, any chance we can set a private meet with Aloa? She might just know a thing or two about this stuff, won’t she?” Wesley asked his fiancé.

"There is a chance she would know, but I am afraid it won't be possible. This is where I put my foot down." Nadeline replied, putting both hands on the table. "It's bad enough that someone--" She shot a look at Emiri. "--Isn't objecting to this, so i will. Jaakuna, with all due respect, you really have lost it. Not in the sense that Savayna has stated, but have you forgotten what had happened the last time we went to Archades? We had help that time and YOU were nearly beaten to death by your sadistic brother. I highly doubt he would be happy to see you, I wouldn't doubt his punishment being more severe since you not only escaped, you also took Emiri with you."

The brunette narrowed her own eyes at Nadeline. "Jaakuna is not going to be staying with his father's soul in him. We will go to Archades--with or without you."

"Are you stupid? Did you forget that Vincent wanted you dead as well?" Nadeline snapped, clearly displeased at Emiri's threat. "You can stop time, but that does not under any circumstance make you invincible."

Grant felt the need to speak up before the two's argument escalated further. "Calm down, you two, we need to properly discuss this." He warned them lightly.

Nadeline crossed her arms. "There is no discussion. I refuse, end of story."

If things weren’t chaotic now, then what had just happened would make that plainly obvious. Wesley didn’t know what to do here. He wanted to at least have it open up for discussion, but Nadeline had snapped. Not only is she pretty much saying no to the idea of Aloa meeting with them to at least see if it was possible to return a soul to its original body, but she was saying that there wasn’t even going to be a discussion. Truly, Wesley’s hands were tied here. However, Jaakuna’s were not.

Jaakuna’s nostrils flared up, his eyes full of anger, and he repeatedly hit the table, clearly angry as all hell. It wasn’t cause Nadeline had insulted his baby. No, that he could just shrug off. Women insult each other all the time. No, it truly was the fact that she wouldn’t even let it be up for discussion. It hurt him more than it made him angry. Jaakuna had a chance to save his father’s life and Nadeline wouldn’t listen to reason. On the surface, he didn’t know why, but deep down he knew. She was scared for her friend’s lives. Yeah, that had to be it. However, Jaakuna’s anger overtook his rationality of the matter, and so he spoke.

“Do you really not understand what this means? I have a chance to save my father’s life after going three years in thinking that I had killed him.” And it just slipped his mind up until now. “I didn’t want to say this, but the man I thought I killed wasn’t my father — it was my fucking uncle, and that too was my grandfather’s fault.” Jaakuna continued, “You have to understand, Nadeline. This isn’t just about me wanting my father back; it’s about Archadia getting its rightful Emperor back, it’s about there possibly being a treaty between the three empires.” Jaakuna pleaded with her, tears tracing down his face. “I can’t do this alone. I need your help. Please.” JAakuna pleaded more.

Wesley and Savayna couldn’t believe it, but more so Savayna. Never has she seen Jaakuna beg so wholeheartedly in the whole time she had known him. He was pleading and begging with all that he had. Savayna now felt bad about all of the shit she said. Truly, his father meant the world to him, probably almost as much as Emiri does.

---

In The Imperial City of Archades, more specifically in the room of the senate, there they were — all five of them — in their chairs. Their direction facing Hamut. All of their eyes on him and he stood there smiling and looking at them with his one visible eye and his hidden eye. His smile was devilish and as if something bad(for them) had happened. As Hamut would walk closer to them, it would be revealed by his gaze and the rays of morning light, all five senate members sat dead, throats slit clean across their necks. Blood was gushing out like a water fountain. Hamut started laughing so evilly. He would then bow his head to the deceased senate members. His plan was coming to full fruition.

He would exit the office of the senate knowing that he would never have to see their condescending faces ever again. He would make his way thought the halls, and into his office. As he stepped into it, he saw the other three judges and they gave him a nod.

“Is it done?” Francis asked.

Hamut smiled. “Of course it is.” Hamut confidently said.

Levi laughed a bit. “So, what’s next?” She asked.

Hamut had gotten to his desk and sat down. He looked to the other judges and smiled. “We just wait for Roman to arrive, which should be in a few hours. Then, we officially put our plans into play on the surface.”

Ixion still was very nervous about this, but he put on a supporting face. “And what about Vincent?” He asked.

Hamut looked to his grandson. “Well, once Roman arrives, I’ll go to him personally and inform him that his services are no longer needed” He said.

“And Robur?” Francis asked. “He is faithful to Vincent right down to his very core.” She added.

Hamut groaned. “Yes, Robur is going to be a problem. He lacks freewill like the rest of us and he is severely strong.” Hamut said. “Perhaps we should use him to our advantage. As First Judge, I hold authority over him as well. “ Hamut said.

The other judges smiled, but Ixion was still unsure. “Sounds good, Grandfather.” Ixion said.

“Until now, you three go about your business. I will be giving the signal when ready.” Hamut said.

It was with that they went along their way and back to their usual routines.

---

About ten minutes later, in Vincent’s office, there he was as angry as all hell. He really didn’t know what to say all of this. Vincent was just handed information that could very well put him in a position that he would no longer be Emperor. Truly, the veins in his face were showing, clearly angry.

“Is all of this true? Are you really saying that my grandfather wishes to bring me out of my role of Emperor?” Vincent asked the person in front of him, bowing their head.

The person looked up. “Yes, your majesty. He plans to do so with your older brother.” The person said.

Vincent looked confused. “The only older brother I have is Jackson.”

“Oh you must not know.”
“Know what?”
“Back in his youth, your father had a fling with a whore and she birthed a son, Marquis Roman.”

When that information was laid in front of him, Vincent couldn’t believe it. It wasn’t for the fact that his father fucked some whore, no, it was that he didn’t know about his own brother. He knew of Roman, but he didn’t know of the fact that he was his brother.

Vincent looked at the person in front of him. “Thank you for this information. Know that when the time comes, I will make you my first judge, you have my word on that, Levi.” He said, thanking Levi for her loyalty to Vincent.

“As my emperor, I serve only you , sire.” She said raising herself and departing. An evil smile would overtake her face as she departed.

"As long as Reia is around, there can never be peace between the three Empires. Never. And what would you have us do? Dethrone her? Because that would be the only way there would ever even be the slightest chance at peace between the three nations." Nadeline reminded Jaakuna, clearly not swayed by his passion. She knew well that he was not speaking or thinking rationally. And if she had to be the villain in this, so be it. She couldn't let them go through with this, she just couldn't. "Have you even thought about the mess that will happen once Simon is revived? Do you realize the absolute pandemonium that will follow? Even if ti was your father, he [i]helped[i] us, if the previous Emperor was banished to Giruvegan, there had to have been a reason for it. This entire situation is too much to risk on the sole assumption that the voice is your father, it was a mistake for you to go after that voice in the first place."

Grant couldn't help but sadly agree with Nadeline--his sister had fallen, it was much too late to think she would go for peace. He didn't want to really admit it, but he was starting to slowly shift to her side of the argument. Still, if Aloa could just prove it was indeed Simon, he would feel a lot better about all this. In all honesty, he could care less about Archadia--though that was because he was a resident of Rozarria. He could actually say he felt more motivated to help Jaakuna for a much more personal reason more than anything.

"So after everything we have been through together you would refuse to help a friend? Really? What in the world is wrong with you, Nadeline?!" Emiri shouted, clearly upset at her. "You of all people should understand! All you ever wanted was peace, or have you forgotten that already?"

Nadeline fell silent after that. For what seemed like an eternity, she stared at Emiri. Grant wasn't sure how this would end. And then finally, she let out a sigh. It seemed as if she would relent. She spoke afterwards. "Let us return to Stigma and see if we can find Aloa. After that, I will remain there. I told you, I refuse to take any part in this. All you need is Aloa's viera abilities, you don't need me."

The tension was so thick in the air, not even Giruvegan could top the thickness. The entire situation had went from bad to worse in a matter of moments and it only took Nadeline's stubborn(somewhat rightfully placed) attitude to make things like this. Jaakuna didn't know how to respond, Savayna didn't want to respond, and Wesley knew he shouldn't respond. Though, Wesley had to admit that everything Nadeline had said was pretty spot on. Reia will always stand between anyone who dared try to achieve piece. However, WEsley felt sympathetic with Jaakuna. The guy just wanted his father back. Wesley definitely can relate, but he had to side with Nadeline on this. There were just so many factors that weren't clear that made all of it too risky.

As WEsley stayed silent, Jaakuna would not. Oh the gods knew he wouldn't. "I knew it was asking too much for you to understand. You couldn't possibly understand any of the hardships I went through. You have both of your parents and you can go back to them once this one problem of that Lola chick is dealt with, but what about me? Nope can't. My mother died during my three years away from my home and my father is pretty much in a coma." Jaakuna said sighing. He was more disappointed in Nadeline than angry(well now, at least). "But yes, let's go to Stigma, find Aloa, and just take it from there." JAakuna clearly didn't want to say anything else as he feared that he would say something he would regret.

Jaakuna sat back down. "Iris, set a course for Stigma, and put it in maximum speed."
"Yes Master, Jaakuna. Arrival in 20 minutes."

As Iris responded to Jaakuna, the ship would be there in less than twenty minutes, and in the five minutes after that, the group had separated into three duos — Nadeline and Wesley, Emiri and Jaakuna, and Savayna and Grant.

Savayna and Grant had ran off to Savayna's room. They were the two who were, well they had no place in that discussion, not really anyway. "Shit got intense back there." Savayna said as she stretched. "What are your thoughts on it all?"

Wesley didn't know what to say, but he knew he had to say something. "It got pretty intense back there. How do you feel about all of this, really?" Wesley asked.

JAakuna and Emiri were in his room and boy was Jaakuna pissed. Oh the gods, he was pacing back and forth, kicking the air, punching it, and just doing just about everything that he could to get his anger out. It wasn't just anger he was feeling. Disappointment and sadness was among the emotions up there. He just couldn't understand why Nadeline was acting in the way that she did. JAakuna kept on pacing back and forth and he began to think that maybe she was right. "Was she right? Is all of this too risky? Is there something I missed?" Jaakuna asked half-rhetorically. "Am I clouded by my feelings of love for my father?" Jaakuna couldn't stop but just wonder if he truly was wrong. Everything about this had him so divided in his thoughts and feelings.

"I thought I made myself perfectly clear." Nadeline replied rather dryly, though she did stand up. "Please excuse me, we will be back in Stigma soon and I must gather my things." She pushed her chair in, though she didn't move. She looked at the ceiling, closing her eyes. "I didn't want it to be like this. I thought...I cannot ignore my own feelings. I know this is a mistake, and I just can't partake in this knowing how I feel. I will not betray myself. This is wrong...I suppose...you will have to be the voice of reason when I'm gone."

---

Grant was glad to get out of there, and that it ended like it did. Sure, Jaakuna was mad at Nadeline, but it was resolved without violence...sort of. Except now Nadeline was apparently leaving the group. Once they got to Savayna's room, he sat on the edge of her bed, shaking his head. When Savayna asked for his opinion, he thought carefully before replying. "I'll admit, I'll feel a lot better once Aloa confirms the identity of the other soul." Grant said slowly, lightly scratching his cheek. "Though I admit I do agree with Nadeline on the topic of my sister. Still...I...I wish she wouldn't leave us like this." He found himself admitting rather reluctantly.

---

Where did she go wrong? How did it come to this? Emiri watched Jaakuna somewhat nervously. She didn't know what to think or what to say. Her previous doubt and guilt resurfaced, and she regretted the events at Giruvegan. "Jaakuna...please calm down." She finally spoke. "Once Aloa proves that it's really your father, everyone will come around." Except for Nadeline. But she really didn't want to think about that. And yet, in the back of her head, she knew she was right. " ' I am the protector that will be the shield; I am the defender that will be the sword; I am the fire that will light up the Darcone house.' " She muttered outloud, though she looked at Jaakuna. "Do you...remember saying that?"

When Nadeline had pretty much answered his question in full force, he looked at her. When she said that Wesley would have to be the voice of reason when she’s gone, he stopped her right there. He took her hands, looking into her eyes so that she would have no choice but to look into his eyes as he would speak.

“You honestly think I’m going to leave you in Stigma alone? I’m coming with you. “ He exclaimed. No, it was more like he told her. The vindication in his voice was absolute. “How else am I to protect you from your crazy aunt?” He said smiling at her. “Now, I guess we both need to pack.” He mused aloud.

---

Grant truly didn’t understand how the female brain worked. Savayna saw that instantly, but she wouldn’t tease him about it. This was a troubling situation for anyone involved. She would side with Jaakuna of course cause she wants to see what this whole thing would lead to. Was Nadeline right about it being too risky and too fishy? Or was Jaakuna right? She didn’t know for sure, but Savayna would see it out. Savayna sat next to Grant and spoke

“Yeah, I will too. I don’t know how the bunny bitch does it, but she seems to know a lot about the magickal stuff. I mean, she was able to bring Jaakuna out of a coma.” Savayna said and then she realized that Grant probably didn’t know about that. “Oh that’s right, you weren’t with us when that happened.” She said with a slight smile. “Granted, it was when you were still a major d-bag. I mean, you still kind of are, but a very sexy douche-bag.” She said winking at him.

---

If it wasn’t for Emiri, Jaakuna really could have gone crazy. Maybe he is. Jaakuna has always felt like he was one step away from going to Crazytown. Hearing Emiri trying to reassure him about this all made him at least stop pacing around, but the next thing she said puzzled him.

“What do you mean? I never said those words…or did I?” He asked her and himself quite confused and puzzled about all of it. Jaakuna wasn’t at all sure that he said those words. He does remember saying something, but it definitely wasn’t those words. What happened then? Jaakuna just didn’t understand. “You’re right though. Once Aloa confirms it, maybe they’ll come around, but what if the soul inside me isn’t my father? And that I have someone who could possibly kill me in my own body.” Jaakuna wasn’t getting any calmer.

Grant had no doubt in his mind that Aloa would be able to shed light on the situation. Though he was surprised to hear that this as not the first time they had required her services. Not only that, but once again Aloa would be helping Jaakuna. He thought that funny for some odd reason. And once again Savayna insulted him...though she kind of followed it up with a compliment? "The Viera are a very spiritual race. So yes, Aloa should clarify some things...and thanks?" Grant couldn't help but chuckle lightly. "So then if I wasn't sexy it'd be a problem?" He asked with a raised eyebrow.

---

Jaakuna was just as worried as Emiri was. What was worse, he didn't even remember his declaration, as odd as it had been. Now she really did think Nadeline had a point. Yet she felt that she needed to support Jaakuna no matter what. She stood up and walked over to Jaakuna, taking his hands in hers. "Aloa will know what to do. She is very wise, and she will help. Just try to relax, even if it's for a little bit, okay? Stressing out about it won't help." She told him gently. "Whatever your decision, I will support you no matter what, okay? We're in this together."

---

Nadeline was somewhat surprised by this. Not that she ever wanted to make Wesley choose between herself and Jaakuna, but she was sure he would stay. She nodded at him, though she leaned her head against his chest, She just hated the entire situation. She didn't want to leave. She wanted to help, but... "Wesley...you should know...when I return...I plan to overthrow Reia." She admitted to him quietly. "If what Jaakuna says is true, Rozarria cannot have Reia at the throne. I...I will consult the council for their approval and succeed Grant. "

Grant went on to say that the Viera are a very spiritual race and Savayna had to nod at that fact. They had to be for Aloa to at least know how to bring someone out of a mist-induced coma. Then, Grant would comment on Savayna's compliment to him and saying that if he wasn't sexy, then it would be some type of problem for Savayna. She tried to hide her slight laugh. "Oh don't be silly, you're always sexy." She said blushing, and then she lightly socked him in the arm.

---

When Emiri began to speak about how bright Aloa was, Jaakuna didn't doubt it for one second. She was the entire reason he's standing here. She was the one that brought him out of his coma. So, she would definitely, in some aspects, be able to shed some light on this. Though, Jaakuna couldn't really relax all that much at the current moment. Just the 'what ifs' are taking over his mind and he can't find a zen place. Still, the comfort of Emiri being there with him no matter what made him just forget freaking out for the moment. "Thank you, Emiri. You have no idea how much that means to me." He said smiling at her, and then a kiss from his lips to hers was given, but it was one of those semi-long ones. It would only last for about ten seconds.

---

If Wesley was to say that he wasn't surprised by what Nadeline had just told him, then he would be a deceitful man. She laid out a bombshell on him, and yet he doesn't feel angry in the slightest bit. Yes, truly Wesley did not show not one bit of angry, or displeasure to what she had just told him. "I guess you're going to need your husband-to-be more than ever then." He said, probably shocking her. He took her hands. "Nadeline, we are engaged now. If you plan on to take the throne, then I will be right there with you." Wesley said looking deep into her eyes, "So, shall we go pack, my love?" He said smiling.

The twenty minutes that passed had to have been the fastest yet longest time of Emiri's life. How she wished she could convince Nadeline otherwise, how she regretted what she had said to her. Nonetheless, the trip went smooth, and soon enough the group exited Stigma's Aerodome. It was irnoy at its finest; when they left Stigma, they had been further united, now they arrived distant and shattered. The streets of Stigma were quite busy, buzzing with chatter, unlike the quiet morning they had left. Nadeline looked around as they walked, and sure enough, Mikaela once again approached them, accompanied by her half a dozen group of giggling girls. She seemed slightly surprised to see her there, though approached her nonetheless.

"Welcome home, Princess!" The entire group sang all at once and then promptly erupted into giggling until Mikaela silenced them.

"Thank you very much." Nadeline replied, once again kneeling down. "Tell me, do you know where I may find Aloa?"

Mikaela frowned slightly. "She's not here in Stigma, she left with Her Emi--Eminence? Um, she left with the Empress somewhere."

Great, just what they needed. As Emiri was about to ask where they could have gone, Nadeline kept talking, "I see. How about Vlyn? Did he go with them as well?"

"No, he's overseeing the palace. Your daddy's in charge until the Empress returns, so Vlyn stayed to make sure nothing happens to him." Mikaela lowered her voice as she spoke, her tiny eyes looking around. "Things aren't looking good for the Empress. Word is the council wants to overturn her, but no one can really tell what's going on. They say Aloa went to... 'take care' of the Empress."

Nadeline thought about this very carefully. If she attempted to get the throne now, she would have to deal with her father. She silently cursed; leaving Lorenzo in charge was one way to make sure neither her or Grant would be able to snatch the throne just yet. SHe was somewhat surprised, however. Was Aloa really going to get rid of Reia? Or was this just a rumor thrown around to lure Nadeline and Grant to Stigma? She would have to make sure, she highly doubted Reia would just go down that easily. "Thank you very much, Mikaela. I'll be going to the castle now." Nadeline told her, straightening up. "Do take care."

Mikaela nodded, leading her group away. The group continued through the streets of Stigma, though shortly afterwards they would arrive just outside the palace gates. One could see the palace located across the grand lake. A guard signaled them to halt. "Who approaches?" He asked through his armor.

Nadeline stepped forward. "It is I, Nadeline Lenore."

"Welcome home, Your Highness. Please, proceed."

As the gates opened, several pillars rose from beneath the water, creating a walkway so that they could cross. Nadeline, Grant and Emiri crossed with ease, having been used to this. As they walked, Nadeline decided to educate the Archadians and Dalmascan. "Before the era of airships, before this city was built, this place was a dry desert area. They say that my ancestors were a frequent target for enemy nations. And so they asked the gods for a place where they could always be protected. In response, the gods told them to go to the middle of this desert and to place a single seed in the middle. Following their instructions, this palace rose from the depths of the sands, surrounded by millions of bloomed flowers. The flowers, however, immediately faded and became the water you see here. Supposedly that is how the sea was created, so that my people could be protected always. They named this place after the flowers that protected them--Rozarria."

Oh how the minutes went on rather fast. The entire group had gotten to Stigma in a matter of minutes after they all went into their respective duos. Nadeline and Wesley had their bags packed. Jaakuna no doubt knew that the two of them would be staying in Stigma. Nadeline had announced it and Wesley would stay just cause the two of them are now engaged, and plus the other reason was obviously to just make sure nothing happened to Nadeline. Wesley had pretty much volunteered to do it. Savayna tried not to say anything. It wasn’t like she could say anything to change the outcome of things. She didn’t know about grant, though.

When they touched ground, the group walked along the streets until a group of giggling girls stopped them. Nadeline would converse with their leader, Mikaela. When Nadeline had asked where Aloa was, Mikaela would inform her that Aloa was not in Stigma. Nadeline would then ask about Vlyn and say that he was overseeing the palace and that Lorenzo was placed in charge of things while Aloa was gone with Reia. When that was done, Nadeline, as Wesley saw, was in a deep thought about this all. As the group of little girls would depart, the group would head on their way to the palace.

When they arrived in front of the palace, a guard stopped them and asking who they were. Nadeline would state her name and in that same instant, the guard let them through. As they all would walk through the front parts of the palace, they walked across a lake. To Savayna, Jaakuna, and Wesley’s surprise, pillars rose from beneath the water, and created a path for them to walk on. The Rozarrians no doubt were used to this, but the other three were definitely not used to this at all. The three of them carefully walked as they wished not to fall in the water.

As they continued to walk across the lake, Nadeline would explain a little about the history of Rozarria and state that her ancestors were frequent targets of enemy nations. She would then further state that they asked the gods for a place to be safe. So, the gods told them to go to a place in the desert and place a single seed in the middle of it. As Nadeline continued, she said that this place was surrounded by millions of blooming flowers, but they all melted and thus how Rozarria got its name. The other three found that extremely fascinating. Wesley actually found it quite beautiful and very fitting.

Eventually, they came to get off the walkway and found themselves in some garden or something like that. They would just let Nadeline lead without saying much. Though, Wesley would speak. “Truly Stigma’s palace puts the Royal Palace of Rabanastre to shame.” He said as he was in complete awe, though he shouldn’t be.

Jaakuna looked to Wesley chuckling. “And Archades doesn’t really have anything like this. Damn Imperials being too militant.” He said in a huff. Savayna laughed as Jaakuna said that. “I’m right there with ya, Jaakie!” She said and Jaakuna glared at her, but responded not.

The palace was as traditional as they came. Once they reached the inside, they would see several pillars lining the halls. Each one channeled water through them, and once in a while some water magicite would pass through and shimmer in the waters. They would also notice when Emiri would get close to one, the pillar would glow brilliantly. Nadeline watched one as it faded, and she decided to play tour guide. "These pillars channel the water from the sea around the capital. They power the mechanisms throughout the city, including the walkway we just crossed. It isn't uncommon to get magicite surging through them." She explained, looking at Emiri.

"As a result, the water itself is magical, in a sense. Anytime they sense a great amount of Mist, they would glow as such." Nadeline continued, pointing to one Emiri passed by. "It used to be a defense system, so to speak. Rozarrians are very much studious in the fields on magic, and my ancestors were blessed with a high potency for casting magic. The pillars would always be brilliant, but if they faded, they knew an outsider was around. These days, however, not everyone has a talent for magic. So while they're always lit, they only shine when someone with a lot of power passes by." She then looked at Jaakuna, who would walk by one and it would glow as well. "With the Dawn Shard's Mist within you, the pillars sense it. Emiri's power also makes them go crazy, so normally she isn't allowed to be around them for too long."

She concluded their tour as the entered the throne room. Once there, they would see both Karolina and Vlyn before Lorenzo. Their voices were rather hushed, their topic being one of great importance. However, as the group got closer, Karolina would see the approach, and the three would fall silent. "Welcome home, sweetheart." Karolina greeted Nadeline warmly. "And to you all as well."

Grant and Emiri would bow to Lorenzo. Nadeline still stood, though she looked at Vlyn. "Forgive me for my haste, Mother, Father, but I require Vlyn's talents. May I borrow him for just a moment?"

Lorenzo nodded, his face a much more serious than usual. "Of course. Whatever business you have, you should take it to the Empress's--my office." He said, rather glum at that. He let out a long sigh.

Nadeline looked at Karolina, but her mother shook her head. "Rozarria has fallen on dark times. Please, do what you must, but your father and I have something very important to discuss." She urged them quietly.

Vlyn let out a sigh as long as Lorenzo's, though he beckoned the group to follow. Both Karolina and Lorenzo offered the group an apologetic look, though they continued their discussion once they left. The trip to the royal office was rather short, and once they had arrived, Vlyn invited the group to sit. He himself sat on Reia's desk, looking at each person individually before addressing them as a whole.

"So, what can I do for you, Highness?" Vlyn asked.

"I ask that you assist them." Nadeline replied quietly. "It is rather urgent. I would have asked Aloa, but she is not here."

Vlyn's ear twitched slightly, and he looked at the group. "Oh boy. Something along the lines of what she helped you with last time, huh?" He hesitated for a moment. "I won't lie, I'm not as...the noise of the outside world has occupied my ears for some time. As such, I'm more disconnected from the spirits. It happens to everyone who abandons the Wood, really." He explained, though he realized something.. "Aloa is extraordinarily talented, even now as her spirit is clouded, she can still outmatch most Viera that are still in the Wood. It's what you'd expect from a former tribe leader, right?"

Emiri was surprised. She had no idea Aloa was so important to the viera community. Though it did explain a lot. "We just need an identity confirmed is all." She told Vlyn.

"Easy enough, I think I can still do that much." He hopped off the desk. "Alright, who's the lucky person?"

As they proceeded to the palace and through the halls, Nadeline went on just to state that the water that flowed through the pillars was magical in some aspects. She would explain how Magicite can sometimes be seen through the pillars and that even the water reacts to mist. That’s when Nadeline would look to Jaakuna and say that since the Dawn Shard’s mist flows through him, the water reacts to him as well as Emiri given her powers. Jaakuna seemed interested in this, but none of them had the time to wait around and admire the pillars or anything of the sort. They had more pressing matters to attend to.

When they arrived in the Throne Room, they came to view of Lorenzo, Karolina, and Vlyn. After her parents would welcome them back to Stigma, Nadeline would cut to the chase that they needed Vlyn. They agreed and Lorenzo said they can do their business with Vlyn over in Reia’s office. Though, that wasn’t before that Karolina would tell her daughter that dark times are upon Rozarria and that both her and Lorenzo must speak with Nadeline when it’s all said and done. Wesley seemed bothered by that. He definitely didn’t like the tone in the air when his future mother-in-law spoke. Even Lorenzo seemed to be less-energetic. Truly, Wesley was extremely bothered by all of this.

When they would come to the office, they all entered and Vlyn would take a seat on the front of the desk Nadeline would explain the situation to him and he would just go on to express his slight fear of what they wanted him to do. He said that he wasn’t as skilled with the spiritual stuff that Aloa was. He would say would go on to state that his time away from The Wood didn’t help much and reveal a big secret about Aloa and her being a former tribe leader. This definitely stunned everyone. Or at least, to those who cared. Still, Nadeline would tell him that they needed an identity confirmed. He would then ask who the lucky person was.

Jaakuna stepped forward, half-smiling, he spoke. ‘That would be me.” Jaakuna said as he laughed nervously. He held out his left arm, and just placing it in front of Vlyn. “I don’t know how you would do this, but whatever it is, that sort of yin-yang tattoo is where you should focus on.” Jaakuna said not really looking forward to any of this, but he knew he had to find out and everyone else wanted to find out as well.

"Lucky you, then. Alright, let's see here..." The male Viera would wink at Jaakuna reassuringly, and he would step forward as well. He would then raise one of his index fingers, and it would glow green. He would trace a symbol into the air, and once done his ears would give off a faint glow. Emiri watched him rather nervously, and she swore she saw Jaakuna's tattoo glow darkly, though it happened so quickly she wondered if her own eyes were deceiving her. Vlyn grinned, though he took Jaakuna's arm and studied the symbol. He put one finger on it, and this would cause Jaakuna some pain. Vlyn remained silent, though he did raise an eyebrow. "Interesting." He would state and then look at Nadeline. "Who does this soul claim to be?"

"The previous Emperor of Archadia." She informed him.

Vlyn fell silent. Grant immediately felt somewhat worried: Vlyn could never shut up if his life had depended on it, so why was he silent all of a sudden? Emiri noticed that as well, and she watched the male viera anxiously. For the slightest second, she could swear that his eyes turned black. That was the same that had happened with Jaakuna's father, wasn't it? To her relief, however, Vlyn released Jaakuna's arm, giving them a nod. "It did worry me that you'd say a dead Emperor was this soul...and yet it doesn't lie."

"You are certain of this?" Emiri asked him worriedly.

"Yes. I am."

A swarm of relief swept the room, most visible in Emiri herself. Nadeline remained expressionless, though she did stand. "There you have it. If you'll excuse me, I have some matters to attend to. I wish you all luck." She spoke, almost somewhat coldly, and it was with much regret that Emiri watched her leave. Grant felt a whole lot better about this now, though he too watched Nadeline's exit. She was probably going to find out what was going on with Lorenzo and Karolina, as if she needed another reason to remain behind. But he was sure that whatever it was, she could handle it. He then looked at Wesley.

When Vlyn started to work his viera, spiritual mojo, everyone watched in nervous anticipation. He would take his fingers, glowing green, and he traced along Jaakuna’s arm. There was an initial jolt of pain through Jaakuna’s arm, but he pressed through it. He did squint and let out a low groan of pain. As Vlyn would do that, Jaakuna would continuously switch his gaze from the symbol on his arm, which for a second Jaakuna saw it glowing darkly, but it was probably from the green from Vlyn’s fingers and he would always look at Vlyn. At the point that he looked at Vlyn, who was silent and he would only speak minimally.

Vlyn had asked who’s soul it was supposed to be and Nadeline would inform him that it was supposed to be Simon Darcone. He would state that he was troubled that they were saying it was indeed Simon, but Vlyn would then say that the soul does not lie. That’s when he released Jaakuna’s arm and the sighs of relief overtook the room as they all did it in unison. Though, Nadeline didn’t join them. Actually, she just got up and left, no doubt to attend to her parents who said they needed to talk to her.

Leaving just the five of them and Vlyn, Grant would look to Wesley. The Dalmascan prince didn’t have a good feeling about any of this and there was that matter of Nadeline wanting to dethrone Reia. He wanted to tell, but was it right of him to do so? He loved Nadeline with all of his heart and soul and he would do anything to protect her. He didn’t know if her trying to take the throne was dangerous for her or not. Perhaps him protecting her was going to present itself in the form of telling Grant. At the very least, Wesley believed that her uncle deserved to know. Though, before he would tell Grant, the matters about Simon’s soul needed to be further addressed.

Jaakuna knew he was right. It was his father. Even so, Jaakuna still had this very weird feeling that something was there that wasn’t being said. Like, now Jaakuna was thinking if there was anything more to it. While Jaakuna was in his deep thought, Savayna would speak. “So, there we have it! Jaakuna’s dear ole dad is inside him. Now, we can leave.” Savayna said clearly tired of Stigma.

Jaakuna waved his hand. “Not yet. I still have more questions.” Jaakuna might as well as ask. “Vlyn, I know you said you’re not as intuned to the spiritual shit, but maybe you can answer me a question.” He said, “My father’s soul was trapped in Giruvegan by…well by someone I know that doesn’t have much ties to spiritual shit. I just want to know how could a soul be extracted from its body and trapped somewhere else.” Jaakuna asked, but he would follow it with another question, “And is there a way to return a soul back to its body? If so, how can it be done?” Boy, Jaakuna was just chalk-full of questions today.

Savayna expressed her desire to just leave already, but Jaakuna still had some things to ask. Emiri was just relieved that it really was him, but something in her gut felt bothered. She wasn't really sure why, but she felt like she needed to keep a close eye on Jaakuna. As Jaakuna spoke to Vlyn, she looked at the door rather wistfully. She half expected Nadeline to waltz in and say she was just joking, but she knew it wouldn't happen. Still, at least Jaakuna was okay. She would just...let Nadeline do her thing. Grant was not as accepting as Emiri, though he blamed his own brother. Something fishy was going on with Nadeline, but for once he just couldn't read her. He didn't stop looking at Wesley, and was more than sure he knew something.

Vlyn scratched his head as he thought carefully. "Well, I do know this. Whenever we--Hume, Viera, anyone, really--are on the verge of death, that is when our connection from our souls to our bodies is weakest. Technically anyone with strong enough magic could take the soul away from the body at that time...provided they actually knew how to do it." He responded to the blonde. "The technicalities are neither here nor there. Most Humes aren't even aware that souls can even be separated from their bodies. If you want to return the soul to the body, just take it there. Treat it as you would an Esper, and it should return to its body...provided said body still exists." He paused, shaking his head. "The very act of ripping a soul from a body...that act is worse than murder where I come from. I hope that answers your questions."

Even though what Vlyn said answered his questions, Jaakuna still didn’t feel that much better. It didn’t help the difficulty he was faced with. Still, at the very least, Jaakuna now knew what it took to return a soul back to its body. Though, the entire thing spoke dangerous. As Vlyn had said, taking the soul back to the body definitely was a dangerous task all on its own. Hell, just going to Archadia again was something that Jaakuna dreaded. The last time he was there, he almost died and that was the help from his grandfather. Now, he wasn’t sure if Hamut would help him, not that Jaakuna would want it.

“Yes, that at least helps my understanding of it; though I guess I expected it to be something different.” Jaakuna admitted. “Oh well, I thank you for the help, Vlyn.” Jaakuna said thanking Vlyn for his help.

When Vlyn had finished, Wesley was going through some inner-turmoil just as Jaakuna was. Wesley had to decide that if he wanted to tell Grant or not. He was leaning to telling him, but was that really the best thing for him to do. Even as the time went on, Wesley kept on debating within himself on what he wanted to do. He had this feeling that Nadeline wouldn’t be all too happy with him, but at the moment, Wesley knew she was going to be in grave danger if she went through it. So, with that, Wesley decided and he would slightly tug on Grant’s arm. “We need to talk. “ WEsley lowly said. “But not here. Let’s go for a walk.” Wesley said as he would motion Grant to follow him, which alarmed the rest of the group.

“Where are you two going?” Savayna asked.

“Oh don’t mind us, just getting some fresh air. Be back in a Dalamascan minute~” Wesley cheerfully said.

Savayna raised an eyebrow, but just shrugged.