Oh god Jaakuna, why?! Grant was in complete disbelief at Jaakuna's rather savage actions. Ryua let out a scream as Jaakuna had tackled Aloa down, though Mtra immediately began attempting to pull Jaakuna off of the viera. He was enraged, he wasn't thinking straight, but by the gods why did he have to resort to this?! After snapping himself out of his shock, Grant would then join Mtra. "Jaakuna! Jaakuna, that's enough!" Grant yelled, wrenching Jaakuna off of Aloa. He would slam the blonde down, away from Aloa and he got on top of him, pinning him down. "What the hell are you doing?! Chaos did this, not Aloa! You're attacking the wrong person!" He told him, making sure that Jaakuna heard him loud and clear.

Aloa coughed, clearly having been caught off guard by Jaakuna's rather sudden attack. Ryua dropped to her knees beside her, clearly concerned. Emiri backed away, clearly frightened by the entire fiasco. She crouched down, placing her hands over her ears as she tried to block out the fighting. She whimpered quietly, shaken by everything going on. She didn't understand who these people were or why they were fighting, but she wanted them to stop. Mtra would kneel down and gently pat her, though the brunette would back away. Aloa sat up, clearly disgruntled. She actually lamented the fact that she hadn't seen it coming rather than the actual attack. Ryua would help her to her feet, the two of them watching Grant and Jaakuna.

As he raged and yelled, Jaakuna was squeeing the life out of Aloa more and more as each second passed. It took the combined efforts of Mtra and Grant to get Jaakuna to loosen his grip. It wasn’t their actions through physical tugging of Jaakuna. No, it certainly wasn’t that. It was the words that Grant spoke to Jaakuna that got him to snap out of it. It was what Grant said about how Aloa wasn’t the one who did that to Emiri, it was her esper Chaos. Realizing this, Jaakuna let go of his grip and got off of Aloa.

As Jaakuna sat down, knees up, elbows resting on their respective knees, and hands placed on his head, and Jaakuna a complete mess; he didn’t hear anything. He just kept thinking back to what caused this. It was his fault that any of this happened. The more he thought about it, the more Jaakuna realized that if he hadn’t left, Emiri wouldn’t have had gone looking for him and she would still remember who she was. After spending a few minutes lost in his own despair-like thoughts, Jaakuna stood up and looked at Emiri. It was ironic. Jaakuna was so worried about not detaching himself from the physical world and its possessions that he didn’t stop to think that the same thing could happen to Emiri. Or at least, a variation of it, anyways. It just didn’t cross his thoughts one bit. Jaakuna smiled pathetically to himself and looked to Aloa, who still was coughing and stood up with the aid of Ryua.

“I’m sorry.” Jaakuna simply said, apologizing for his actions. Jaakuna then just looked around. He didn’t even know what to do. No, that wasn’t right. He did know and he didn’t know if that was still an option. “Tell me, with me walking out, did it make it impossible for me to complete the cleansing? I mean, is it too late?” Jaakuna would ask Aloa, but he didn’t look at her. His eyes were on Emiri.

As the fighting ceased, Emiri would take her hands off her ears. She would stand slowly, her hands on her elbows. For a brief moment her eyes locked with Jaakuna's. She looked at him rather nervously, his previous actions clearly having spooked her somewhat. The amount of guilt Grant had quadrupled as he looked at the two. Perhaps he had been right in what he said, but if anyone was to blame, it was only himself, really. Still, he managed to have calmed Jaakuna down. Aloa was surprisingly calm about the entire situation, and he couldn't help but give her kudos. She would nod at Ryua, who would bring out a smaller bottle. She delicately poured some of the Dream Powder into it and would top it, the bottle emitting a very faint orange glow.

"It is never too late. As I previously stated, you must find the answers yourself." Aloa would murmur, not really being able to talk (no thanks to Jaakuna). "Take the vial with you, it will help you concentrate...albeit it will be more difficult now more than ever." She too would look at Emiri. "Do your best to assist him." Ryua would then offer the bottle to Emiri. The brunette would take the vial from her and nod. "Despite this setback you can still unlock your potential."

Grant looked at Aloa, shaking his head lightly. "Aloa...is there any way to bring the old Emiri back?" He asked her.

"I have theories but not answers. Forgive me, my lord. I would suggest, however, that your Espers discuss the matter."

As Aloa told Jaakuna that it wasn’t too late for him to complete the cleansing and that he would have to find the answers within himself, he didn’t smile at that fact. He thought he would, but he didn’t. Jaakuna couldn’t smile, not after what happened with Emiri. It might be true that Jaakuna has found himself once more, but it was like he was worse off than before the whole ordeal with him fully giving himself to Zodiark. He would then hear that it was never too late for his potential to be unlocked. That made Jaakuna crack a small smile. For some reason he found at least some comfort in that.

As Grant would ask if there was any chance to get Emiri’s memories back, Jaakuna looked to Aloa as if wanting to know the answer to that question himself. She would, much to Jaakuna’s dismay, that there was not, only in theories. Jaakuna didn’t care. “Tell us, perhaps we can figure it out.’ Jaakuna said as if pleading.

---

Outside the physical plane, nothing but a black abyss with millions upon millions of stars surround them. Planets around vary in sizes and colors and multiple comets and meteors pass them coming from all directions, both above and below them. It’s like their surrounded by the wonders of space. Every single one of the beings are in a complete circle.

“Was it really necessary, Chaos?” Belias asked, obviously referring to what happened to the Scion of Time.

“Oh come on, Belias, are you really questioning what had to be done? With the Scion of Time gone, we will cease to exist.” Chimed in Mateus.

“But he didn’t have to completely wipe her clean.” Belias responded.

“You’re letting your ties to the boy cloud your judgment.” Entered Exodus.

“I wouldn’t think you would understand, Exodus. You always just watched and never did anything.” Belias said.

Addrammelech sighed. “Ugh, just shut up about it. Chaos made a boo-boo, “ He annoyingly said.

“ENOUGH!” Yelled Hashmaal, “It had to be done despite what negative side effects it had.” He said.

“Geez, Hashi-sempai, did you really have to yell like that?” Whined Fanfrit.

“I thought I said to not call me that anymore!?” Hashmaal said irritated.

“Why do you hate me so, Hashi-sempai!?” Famfrit whined dramatically.

“You two are utterly annoying.” Shemhazai annoyingly said.

"The one with the most probable chance of success would be to simply try jogging her memory. Tell her about her life, show her familiar places...and just hope it will come back slowly." Aloa offered with a small shrug. "I realize it not to be much...but memories are such fragile things and are the most difficult part of a heart and mind to understand. Even for us."

Mtra remained quiet for a moment, but she got an idea. "What about that flower? The Forget-Me-Not?'

"I...do not believe that flower actually has memory properties. It is more of a symbol than anything." Ryua looked at Mtra like she was an idiot.

"Well supposedly you get the flower and make a wreath, place it upon your head and it helps with the remembering process. Sprinkle just a touch of that Dream Powder on it." Mtra continued, nodding enthusiastically. Grant discredited the entire thing until she mentioned the Dream Powder. He knew it had many rather mysterious properties, and perhaps Mtra's theory was not as far-fetched as it seemed. He gave Jaakuna an encouraging look, nodding. Emiri would nod as well, though she seemed a bit confused as to why she was actually nodding. Grant raised an eyebrow at her and she stopped. She would then look at Jaakuna as well.

---

"I have to agree with Belias. Memories are not a trivial matter for humes." Zalera would offer his opinion.

"It was either that or lose the Scion. What is the issue here? It worked, didn't it? Now the Scion isn't going to cease to exist!" Cúchulainn stated, exasperated.

"Who's to say that this won't happen again, however?" Zeromus would chime in. "If this happens again in say, another twenty years, will you just reset her again? How do we know this is even a permanent solution?"

Chaos shook his head at his brethren. Obviously his action--said action being something that he had believed to be an actual benefit to them--had divided them, so to speak. It was not often that they would gather as such, and one place was obviously missing an Esper. He couldn't help but look at Ultima, who had managed to remain mysteriously silent in this discussion. She would notice him noticing her and have a rather irritated look. Now she probably had to say something now. "What has been done...is done." She would state rather obviously. "We can ridicule Chaos for his rather hasty decision all we want, but it is done."

"Hasty or just stupid?" Cúchulainn asked.

"No need for that now." Zeromus warned him.

As Jaakuna would listen to all of the words said, he agreed that telling Emiri about her life and just taking her to visit familiar places. Jaakuna’s face would show a new attitude as compared to his previous depressed, almost-defeated look. He mentally decided that he would make it his mission to get Emiri back to her former self even if it would cost him his life. As Jaakuna did do that, he would hear Mtra mention the flower known as the Forget-Me-Not. He would also see that Ryua a scolding look. Jaakuna shook his head, but when he heard about the combining of the dust from the Forget-Me-Not and the Dream Powder, it did make sense, but Jaakuna didn’t have much knowledge about that powder.

As they were done, Jaakuna’s gaze went to Emiri. It just seemed so bittersweet. She was right there and yet she wasn’t. He wanted to hug her, but she would not have the same feeling of wanting for him, not yet anyways. There was no memory in her of anything, not her name, not her life, not her friends, nothing but emptiness and confusion. She was like a lost child with no memory of who she was.

Clapping his hands, Jaakuna just nodded. “I think for now, we should head back to the Ifrit, Grant. I’m sure you have many questions.” Jaakuna said, as he would then turn to Aloa, Ryua, and Mtra. “Aloa, again, I’m sorry for almost killing you. I don’t even know what came over me.” He said, again apologizing to her. “And, I don’t know when I’ll complete the cleansing, but I guess when that day comes, well…” Jaakuna just stopped there. “Thank you.” He said bowing to the three Viera.

---

As the rest of the espers added in to the current topic, it definitely was divided. Half of the espers agreed with the decision that Chaos made and the other half are very vocal against it. They don’t usually meet like this, but when they do, it’s usually at the cost of something great to the Humes and other races of Ivalice. It’s only when one of their own kind do something this drastic that they must discuss amongst themselves. Once Ultima spoke, everyone instantly dropped the topic. Aside from Zodiark, she was the one they respected — and feared — most. That was when Chuculainn would add on, but Zeromus would silence him.

“I believe there is another matter that we must discuss.” Exodus said, “The Seeds of The Chosen Ones.”

“Ah yes, you are correct Exo-sempai!” Fanfrit said happily

Every single one of them knew that this day would come. It was written by the Occuria themselves, the creators of the Espers and forgers of Ivalice. They knew that the day would come. They didn’t know if it was going to be in five years or five centuries. They just knew that eventually there would come a day that the prophecy of The Chosen Ones would come to life.

“How many have the seeds planted?” Asked Famfrit, slightly worried as he, Hashmaal, and Ultima remain to be freed and put unto their rightful owner.

“Two: Belias has planted his and Hashmaal has his planted.” Exodus revealed.

“And the rest of them?” Famfrit asked.

“That is up to the lot of you.” Exodus revealed. “When you decide your respective Chosen One is ready is for you to judge. As for my own, his time is nearing.” Exodus revealed.

---

They were almost there. The group of Wesley, Nadeline, Lannit, Wendy, Clyde, and Savayna seemed to be three-fourths of the way to The Pharos as they see the giant tower in the distance. “It seems we’re almost there.” Clyde shouted out as he was leading the charge, going to side to side, water in his face and boy did it feel good. It was the same for everyone else as well. They too went side-to-side, well maybe not Nadeline, as Wesley would notice that she seemed to be slightly uncomfortable. It was no surprise. She couldn’t swim. She would make it though.

About five minutes later, they were at The Pharos. “It seems like we made it.” Wesley said as the rest of the group touched ground, each getting off of their boards. As they would stare at the tall building in the distance, everyone would no doubt get their weapons out. Wesley would draw out his Sword Of Order, the blade having a faint orange glow to it. Savayna would pull out her Ice Queen Sword, the blade showing an icy fog-like mist surrounding it.

As they would turn to Lannit, Wendy, and Clyde, they just smiled. “Let us show you guys what real weapons look like.” Clyde smirked. They stood in a straight line, each holding their hands out.

In front of Wendy, an blue and green-colored glyph appeared that did not have any known origin(just in case Nadeline was in her tome). What was on the glyph were two t-shaped objects crossed. As the glyph disappear, two weapons appeared in Wendy’s hands. As the remaining light from Wendy’s glyph disappeared, two identical weapons were in both of her hands. They were tonfas, but they had a strange light-based shine to them. “You like?” She showed the others her weapon. “These were hand-crafted by the best scientists money could buy. Two tonfas with laser blades. They can cut through any physical substance like butter.” She revealed.

In front of Lannit, a glyph of pink and dark grey appeared that, like Wendy’s, did not have any point of origin or no info would be had in any known tome. The symbol on the glyph were several pink spikes coming out of something. Once the glyph itself would fade away, a materialized form would shape around Lannit’s right wrist. Upon further inspection, it would seem that it was some kind of gun. It wrapped around his wrist nicely and it was dark grey in color. It had many other shades to it, but from the distance that it would be seen from, it would just appear dark grey. However, on the top of it, there seemed to be…pink spikes? “Here’s my beaut. The Plasma Needle Gun!” Lannit said proudly.

In front of Clyde, a glyph of deep azure and white appeared before him. It too did not have any point of origin in any known tome or book. The symbol upon it looking like a chain blade of sorts with a hilt. As the glyph would soon fade away, a weapon would be seen in his hand. As it would be revealed, Clyde’s weapon had an azure-blue hilt and it had a seemingly unmovable chain around the blade. It just looked like a badly-customized weapon. However, when they would think the weapon was nothing out of the ordinary, Clyde would apply force to the hilt, and that’s when the chain started rotating at high speeds, the noise sounding like that of a chainsaw. “This here is the best goddamn weapon in all of Ivalice.” Clyde said boasting. “This here, is a motherfucking Chainsaw Katana! Don’t you see how fucking wonderful it is!? “ Clyde would yell in such excitement and volume.

Wesley just couldn’t help but shake his head at Clyde, but he found his uncle’s antics amusing. “A fine set of weapons you three have.” WEsley simply said.

Nadeline had to admit that feeling solid ground underneath her boots was much too glorious. How she loathed the sea with all her might, what was more they would have to cross it again to go back. She watched as everyone else withdrew their weapons, noting how rather flashy and just plain unnecessary some of them were. What a motley crew, truly. It was as if the gods thought that she was much too comfortable with their usual party and decided that the best thing to do was put her with a bunch of loons and have them have some sort of relation to her fiance so that they would soon become related in one way or another to her. And this displeased her to no end. She would withdraw her own rapier rather simply. "Lead the way then,." She said.

---

"Well now that the existance of my own host is now solidified and completely memory-less...I believe it will be soon." Chaos would state.

Zalera couldn't help but look at Chaos before responding. "The same with me...albeit mine still remembers her own name,"

Cúchulainn chuckled. "The recent transfer has set me back some time, I admit."

"With the recent events concerning Chaos' rather brash decision, I admit my own worry." Zeromus huffed, clearly displeased. "Humes can be such fools."

"Not that I am an expert in the matter, but maybe now the prince has a chance with her." Zalera offered, though it was clear he was not serious.

"What? Why does that even matter?" Chaos asked, confused.

"I think he is referring to what the mortals call a 'love triangle'." Zeromus would clarify.

"But what about Mateus' Chosen? That would make it a love square." Cúchulainn chuckled again. "How entertaining!"

Ultima stared at them for a moment in what was pure disbelief. "How is that entertaining?" She asked, somewhat lost.

"You see it creates tension."

"...this is ridiculous." She muttered, shaking her head. "Chaos, you will assist the Scion as much as you possibly can, obviously there is no room for delay. The rest of you barring some specific need to step up."

---

Grant nodded in agreement. He definitely wanted to learn what had happened with him, as well as assisting him in any way possible to rejog Emiri's memory. The viera would say their farewells and they would begin to head back to the Ifrit. Emiri would trail behind them, somewhat unsure. The trip back was a mostly silent one, but for Grant is was especially strange. No doubt Jaakuna was in dismay, albeit determined. It was like he and Jaakuna were going along with a complete stranger. Still, the trip back was quick, and they were on board the Ifrit in no time at all. They had gotten Jaakuna back...and in exchange they lost Emiri. They went to the dining room and sat down, Emiri following in tow. She was much like a puppy following them around soundlessly.

"First things first, I think." Grant would say to the two of them. "You are Emiri. Our names are Grant and Jaakuna."

Emiri would slowly nod, a thoughtful expression on her face. "Grant and Jaakuna." She would say back to him. "Jaakuna." She would repeat his name in a different tone, almost sounding nostalgic, though to his slight delight she would smile a little bit.

"Does the name ring any bells?" He asked her cautiously.

"It's something nice." She replied. "Like...a sky and..." Her smile would fade as she furrowed her brow. "Something warm. But I don't know why."

Grant didn't make too much sense of this and would look at Jaakuna. "Anything else you want to start with?" He asked, hoping that what she said meant something to him.

As everyone was ready to move on, they did, with Clyde leading the way. Each had their weapon in their hand(s), as if ready for anything that would come. They would make their way through the initial level of the Ridorana Cataract, going through flight of stairs, killing enemies as they would, mainly being Deathclaws, but every now and again, there would be Cassies. Both of which were extremely easy for them to do away with since the numbers was five to three(how many of the respective beasts would appear before them).

Eventually, the group would make their way to the entrance of the Pharos and they would just stop in front of it, as if hesitating.“Well this is it. You scared, Wesley?” Clyde smirked as he asked Wesley.

“You wish!” Wesley responded.

“Well, then let’s go.” CLyde said.

Wesley nodded and they would head in, not knowing what would await them.

---

When they got back to the Ifrit, Grant would instantly start by telling Emiri his and Jaakuna’s name to hers. She would say them as if etching them into her empty mind. However, she would repeat Jaakuna’s name as if remembering it. A hopeful look betook Jaakuna. Grant would ask her if that meant anything to her and she would reply that it just was something nice, and something about a sky and something warm. Jaakuna then smiled at that. “At least it’s something.” He simply said.

Grant would turn to Jaakuna, asking him anything he wanted to start with. Jaakuna thought about it. “I think perhaps we should go to Stigma.” Jaakuna said and then he remembered something. “And I know exactly where in Stigma we should start with.” Jaakuna said as a glimmer of hope came over him and a smile as well. “IRIS, set a course to Stigma and please do go at full-speed.” Jaakuna yelled out.

“Of course, Master Jaakuna! Arrival estimated in twenty minutes.” She said.

Jaakuna would then look at Emiri. “At the very least, let’s get you some food.” Jaakuna said as he would place his hand on her back gently, guiding her to the dining room/kitchen area.

---

As they all were talking about their respective Chosen Ones, the other espers would all take it in their own way, though with Ultima barking orders at them, the remaining agreed, but there were some…complications with some, specifically with Shemhazai and Mateus’ respective ones.

“Mine will be easy, but I do not think he is ready. His mind is full of lust, but perhaps I could…enlighten him of Chaos’ rashness.” Shemhazai said.

In response to the ‘Love Square’, Mateus spoke, “For mine, she has placed her trust in me. As for the matter of her affection for yours, Zero, and how she comes into play of that Square of Love, she feels strongly for the Prince of the Roselia house, I dare say that she secretly wants to marry him.“ Mateus revealed, though he did not know why he felt so…drawn to Savayna’s feelings. “Shemmy, I think I fought yours. He is strong, so I do not understand how he is not ready.”

Shemhazai sighed. “He is strong, yes, but I do not think he is ready for the complications that comes with my seal. I do not think he can handle it.” Shemhazai admitted.

“Oh come on Shemmy-chan, you need to take a chance, and as Ulti-sama said, we all need to step up. ” [/b]Famfrit said being the happy one of the meeting.

“I shall see if he truly is ready.” Shemhazai simply said.

Belias was listening to them all and he was thinking about how Jaakuna nearly ridded himself of the attachments he has made to the physical world and how Zalera’s own almost had him complete it. Still, there was something about the emotional state of Jaakuna that gave him hope, though his thoughts went straight to Chaos. As the youngest of the espers, Belias was probably the one that was respected the least, but he still held ground over most. He felt like that he holds a certain connection to Shemhazai and Ultima, as it is his key that enables travelers to venture into the place that they were sealed.

Exodus looked to Belias. He was deep in thought, which was so much like him. He thought too much. “Another topic we must address.” Exodus looked to his brethren. “Our former king, the child of darkness, he is making progress in his plans. “ He said, “If I’m not mistaken, he threatens to free you, Ultima, as well as you Hashmaal and Famfrit.” He said.

“My Chosen One is nearing the location of which I was sealed, as is Famfrit’s. However, if I am not mistaken, Ultima almost got freed by Chuchulainn’s new one. Though, they did not get close enough as that one got lost in The Great Crystal.” Hashmaal said, “I wonder, Ultima, will anyone even get close enough to even attempt to free you.” Hashmaal’s voice hinted a cocky-like attitude.

Nadeline found herself in awe once more at the Pharos. How high did it go? How low did it go for that matter? It was faint, but she could see her reflection in front of her at times. It seemed this place was dense in Mist as well. Good news for her magicks, of course, but there was also...something else. It was a bit difficult to describe but there was something rather mysterious in the air. For some reason she thought of when Jaakuna had broken the Dawn Shard. It was very familiar. She wondered if Wesley had noticed. She had to admit seeing this more Jaakuna side of her future husband was getting somewhat exasperating. It was easy to blame the company they carried but still. She lightly touched the feather in her hair, frowning. It took a little getting used to switching between Black and White Magicks.

---

Grant watched Jaakuna lead Emiri away. He just couldn't shake off the guilt he felt, and personally gave Jaakuna kudos for remaining so calm. If Savayna couldn't remember him or the fact that they were together, how would he react? Sad? Angry? He'd suffer, that much he knew for sure. Jaakuna looked hopeful, so maybe this truly was just something temporary. They would overcome it, he knew they would. Once they would get to Stigma, however, Grant felt it best if perhaps he left Emiri with Jaakuna and would go to his brother for something.

Emiri let herself be led by Jaakuna to the kitchen. She was mostly silent, thinking about the sky and why it was connected to Jaakuna the name. He and Grant seemed friendly enough, though she admitted some slight worry about Jaakuna. He was so angry and he even attacked that woman. Maybe it was her fault. He cried when he saw her too. Had she done something bad to him maybe? But he hadn't attacked her. She was slightly confused. "My apologies." She found herself telling him. "It was my fault you reacted in such a way, wasn't it? Did I do something wrong?" She asked him.

As Jaakuna led Emiri to the kitchen and Grant followed, Emiri would ask that it was her fault that Jaakuna attacked Aloa. He saw the look in her eyes, and Jaakuna knew it all to well. It was the look that he had in his eyes throughout the entire morning(it was mid-afternoon). It was that look of being lost and confused. Jaakuna would just offer Emiri a reassuring smile. “No, it’s not your fault. You did nothing wrong either. It was all me, but let us not worry about that.” Jaakuna said as the trio arrived to the Kitchen.

The trio would sit down at the table, to which Jaakuna brought up a halogram menu, pressing a few buttons and the center of the table would open up, platters of assorted cheeses and deli meats on them. Also, three glasses with lemon water in them appeared.“Perhaps you should eat, at least so you can be on full-strength.” Jaakuna said smiling. He had to, there was nothing that benefited Jaakuna from showing how hurt and angry he was. He felt a good portion of that anger towards Grant, but he wouldn’t show it cause, as it was with Emiri, it didn’t do them any good.

---

It was probably only about a few minutes that the group just gawked in awe of how tall The Pharos really was. Wesley couldn’t estimate how many floors it could have had. His best guess was at least fifty floors, but that probably wasn’t even close to half. At least, that’s what Wesley thought. “Okay, enough gawking. Let’s do this!” Clyde ordered.

Howls and roars came from Clyde and Lannit and Wesley somehow found the energy infectious as he too was joining in. Uh-oh, he was doing his Jaakuna thing again. Savayna would just roll her eyes and lean to Nadeline. “Now, you see this is why men have to be on a leash. Give them room to run around and they think they’re fucking dogs.” Savayna said slightly irritated.

Nadeline couldn't help but roll her eyes as well. None of them were taking this seriously, were they? Savayna would mention how men needed leashes precisely because of them doing things like this. She actually thought Wesley was above this, but she had been proven oh so wrong. The thought of marrying a second Jaakuna made her shudder slightly. Maybe Emiri could put up with that but Nadeline herself simply had no patience for it. "Luckily for you my uncle doesn't need a leash." She muttered back to Savayna. "Quite the opposite, actually." She would then clear her throat, hopefully signalling that they needed to be on guard. Though she did agree that they needed to keep moving.

---

It was all him? How curious. Emiri couldn't help but ponder on that as she would eat. Grant wasn't feeling too hungry, the pit of guilt in his stomach draining him of whatever appetite he had. He had to force himself to eat a little, if only to avoid looking at Emiri. As she ate, she would occasionally ruffle her hair.in annoyance. Grant couldn't help but raise an eyebrow every time she did it. She would brush it back with a frown, her face somewhat concentrated, though she did continue to eat. Finally, as she finished, it seemed that she had decided she had had enough. "Why did this happen, really?" She would ask, once more brushing back her hair and bangs with her hands, though her bangs would fall on her forehead again. "The woman said that Chaos took away my memories...but why?"

Grant was surprised. He really thought she was going to complain about her hair. "You have a very special power, but that power took its toll on your body. To alleviate it, Chaos--that is, the Esper you possess--healed you, so to speak. But in the process your memories are gone. He would explain to her.

"Then, who am I? And who are you?" She asked them both. "And I do not simply mean your names."

"I am the crown prince of Rozarria, first in line for the throne. You and I are childhood friends." And formerly enemies.

"Well, alright. We are friends." She would nod and look at Jaakuna. "Then, who are you? And how are you related to me?" She asked him.

---

Ultima looked at Hashmaal. "Of course someone will. In order to properly combat Zodiark and rebalance Ivalice, we must all be freed." She stated as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. "The question is...will it be that woman or the princess?" Zeromus was vaguely amused at Hashmaal's hint, though he said nothing lest he incurred Ultima's wrath.

Chaos looked at Belias. He was silent, but he could tell that the Esper was thinking solely of his actions. "Tell me, Belias, would you rather I have let her die? Seeing as how your sky pirate is a wreck on her having no memories...I dare say that my actions were merciful. Otherwise we may have just had a second Zodiark at hand." He told him plainly.

It was as if everyone went silent when Chaos spoke to Belias. The Gigas looked at the Walker of the Wheel, obviously stating the exact truth of the matter. “Is that what you call it — merciful? You and I both know that this all goes back to when you helped the Scion of Time’s mother. Granted, at the time, they were facing an adversary much out of their league, but if you want to play that game, you should be careful, Chaos. This is one game that you will lose.” Belias snapped, as he was sure that Chaos knew this too.

---

They would all eat, each taking bites at their own pace. Jaakuna saw Emiri eating at a normal speed, but she seemed to get agitated by the fact that her hair kept on getting in the way. Jaakuna noticed it just now. Her scrunchie was missing and it definitely was having its effect on her. Jaakuna would slightly chuckle. He didn’t want to, but he found it slightly entertaining. It was funny to him. She had lost her memory, but her mannerisms were still there, and of course, the way she was when she got irritated made Jaakuna smile. She was so cute when she was irritated. As they each would finish eating, Grant not really eating much, Emiri would begin to ask some questions, first asking about why her memories got taken away and how. Jaakuna too wanted to hear this, but he probably already knew the answers.

As Grant would tell her, both Emiri and Jaakuna heard that her she had a special power more like a curse, and that that power was taking its toll on her body no shit. So, Chaos intervened and healed her in a sense and as a result, her memories were wiped clean that bastard. In response to that, Emiri would then ask who she was and respectively, who Grant and Jaakuna were and who they were to her. Grant would respond and state that he was the crown prince of Rozarria and the first to his throne and also would state that he and Emiri were childhood friends. Yeah, why don’t you tell her the rest.

After she would look to Jaakuna, and ask him the same question. Jaakuna’s eyes looked at her, as if wanting to tell her and he smiled. “Like Grant here, I too am a crown prince, but of Archadia. Currently, I would take the seat — should I want it — from my older brother.” Jaakuna said, and then he looked at the table, fiddling his thumbs together. “As for how I relate to you, it’s like this..” He paused, looking up to Emiri, smiling at her. “You and I are engaged to marry.” He said, moderately nervous.

---

As the howling and roaring continued, a stern clearing of Nadeline throat signaled Wesley and the Dalmascan prince would tug at the others and they too would know that they should continue in and so they did, with Wesley leading the charge. They entered the first floor and just looking at the inside, it was even more awe-worthy the outside. A lot of magicks swirling in the center and as they would reach the center of the first floor, everyone couldn’t help but just look up. Wesley was wrong, the Pharos definitely was more than fifty feet. It looked like it was close to one hundred feet, but how is that even possible? Wesley surely didn’t know, but currently he was too amazed by the wonder before him and the others to even think about something else.

Zalera looked between both Belias and Chaos. Odd, the two seemed to be developing something of a minor rivalry so to speak. He found it very ironic, considering both their hosts being very intimate. Or...at least they were before Chaos had wiped her memory. For the slightest moment Zalera actually wondered if Chaos had done it for the sole purpose of messing with Belias. It certainly was not out of the question considering Chaos had a tendency to have a rather malicious streak. Chaos would then chuckle, much to Zalera's confusion. Yeah, Chaos was a douche sometimes.

"Ah the previous Scion of Time...her daughter's abilities and potential put her mother to shame." Chaos would admit. "Though I have no idea what you speak of, Belias. I did what I thought would benefit our plans is all."

---

Grant couldn't help but have the strangest feeling that what he had told Emiri was something Jaakuna had not approved of. It may have just been his imagination, but he was pretty sure Jaakuna was sending some vibes his way, and they weren't good. He would let out a small huff, shooting Jaakuna a look, though he would look at Emiri. At being told that Jaakuna was actually the one she was going to marry. She raised both her eyebrows at this, clearly surprised. She noticed it was too late to take back her surprised expression but she would nod very slowly, acknowledging it. She did hesitate and then examine her hands. "That's...lovely." She would state, still looking at her hands, and then she would look at Jaakuna. "I don't have a ring, so I suppose I must have...lost it. I am very sorry." She apologized again.

It took every ounce of willpower for Grant to not snicker or react. He managed to keep a completely straight face. When did Jaakuna propose to Emiri, exactly? And why was this the first time he was hearing about it? He did mimic Emiri and also raise his eyebrows at Jaakuna. "Yes...Jaakuna here is the love of your life." He would enforce Jaakuna at any point. It wasn't his business anyway.

"Oh." Emiri would nod again. "I will...remember that. It's just...I thought...okay." She seemed to not really know how to respond to this piece of news, really.

He knew exactly why she reacted this way. No doubt Jaakuna's temper and brash action back in Eruyt had frightened her somewhat. He cleared his throat a bit "You're both very happy together." He assured her.

Emiri furrowed her brow, thinking for a moment. "Then...why is it that you were the first person I met again, Grant?" She asked him curiously. "Jaakuna wasn't here when I woke up."

Grant looked at Jaakuna for this one.

As Belias and Chaos went back and forth between each other, Hashmaal was almost at his limit of how much he could just stand around and not do anything to put an end to Chaos and Belias’ debating of how what Chaos was good or not, or how what he did benefited what they had planned. Bottom line was that it had to be done despite how brash it was.

“This is getting ridiculous.” Hashmaal said, voicing his annoyance on the matter. “We all agree that what Chaos did was foolish, but it had to be done. Belias, you not letting it go is becoming annoying. I do not know why you are acting so personal to this, but it needs to stop. We are watchers, not ones who intervene.” Hashmaal said looking to both Chaos and Belias, “That goes for you too, Chaos. I do not care if The Scion of Time becomes unstable again, but it would do good to remember who you serve, and that hasty actions like the one you pulled today will be met with your undoing.” Hashmaal sternly said with authority and fierceness. Of course, Ultima ruled them, but below her, Hashmaal was the second-in-line on the chain of command.

The rest of espers just intently watched and listened as Hashmaal laid down the law. Belias huffed, but he admitted defeat. His face would present as such and he would not speak anymore. Exodus slightly laughed at the trivial matters each of them seemed to be addressing. “I see no point for this meeting to go on.” Exodus said as he would look towards Ultima, as if looking for her approval to call the meeting.

---

As Emiri would react rather surprised at the fact that Jaakuna told her that she and him were engaged to be married, she would simply respond and say that it was lovely, but she would then look at her finger and would state that she did not have a ring and that she must’ve lost it, which she, once more, apologized. Though Jaakuna wished she didn’t keep apologizing, he found comfort that at least the part of her that always apologized was still intact. At least, that was something to build upon. Grant would chime in and tell Emiri that Jaakuna was the love of her life and that they were really happy together. Jaakuna would give Grant a nod of thanks.

As Emiri would ask Grant why was it that he was the first one that she saw and not Jaakuna, and then add on that he wasn’t there when she woke up. Grant would then look to Jaakuna for this one, no doubt he was just as curious as Emiri was. On that note, Jaakuna’s nervousness increased. Jaakuna would at least tell Emiri the base of it all and he would inform Grant about the specifics of what he did while he was gone afterwards.

Jaakuna looked to Emiri, taking her hand, and spoke. “I did something really stupid the day before the current one and it brought much shame to me and for a lack of better words, I was lost within.” Jaakuna said not breaking eye contact with Emiri. “It deeply affected you and though I made a silent promise I would let you guys help me, the fact of the matter was that I ran. I couldn’t face any of you , not after what happened with..“ Jaakuna stopped himself, but not cause he feared of saying the wrong things to Emiri. No, it was moreso cause he felt himself about to break down.. ” I just couldn’t handle it. So, that’s why Grant was the first one you saw. Everyone else was off doing something really important and I ran away.” He said.

"Then it is settled." Ultima would announce. "We know what we must do. Carry on, despite Chaos' mishap, we mustn't falter."

Cúchulainn would nod. "This will be very interesting..." He would snicker as he would depart in a whirl of Mist.

"Honestly...I can't say Humes are the only foolish beings." Zalera would shake his head as he left.

Zeromus would sigh. "Until next we meet, then." He would say as he left.

Chaos would look right at Belias once more. "Yes...until next time." He would say enigmatically as he too departed.

---

Emiri found herself wondering exactly what could have warranted Jaakuna to do something that made him so regretful. It seemed that Grant was right, however, as Jaakuna took her hand she recognized the warmth from it. She looked right back at him, listening to what he said but not really understanding. Regardless she would nod, showing that at the very least she knew what he was talking about. "So there's more people that are here?" She ended up asking curiously.

"A princess, another prince, and a former general. We're quite the crew." Grant would nod solemnly. "We're all friends here. You'll remember them soon enough."

"Okay." She would nod again, though she would turn her attention to Jaakuna. "Whatever it is that you did, I'm sure you had your reason. You shouldn't feel too bad about it, though...everyone makes mistakes." She would tell him.

When Jaakuna finished what he had to say, Emiri would jump on the question of if there were more people. Grant would confirm and even state who exactly they were. Well, not in names, but in their titles and he would joke mildly about how they were quite the crew. Jaakuna had to agree as noticed by his chuckle. Though, Emiri would jump back onto her reply to Jaakuna about what he said by pretty much saying that everyone makes mistakes and that he had his reasons. Jaakuna did have his reasons, but none of them good, at least not according to what the others have said.

“I did, but I guess that’s enough of that.” Jaakuna said just smiling at Emiri.

As Jaakuna would stretch slightly, IRIS would speak. “MAster Jaakuna we have arrived at Stigma.”

“Oh, thank you IRIS!”

As they had indeed arrived at Stigma, Jaakuna would stand up and look to Grant and Emiri. “I guess we should go now.” He said.

---

It was how many minutes they stood there looking at the swirling tower of magick? Maybe five minutes? Whatever amount of time it was, they needed to stop, so that’s when Clyde clapped his hands and guided his companions to the Way Stone in front of them. As they would approach it, Wesley noticed something out of place. “It’s been…activated already..” Wesley said intrigued beyond belief. It was weird. It wouldn’t be activated unless there was someone else within The Pharos.

“Well how about that?” Clyde said chuckling. “Saves us the bothersome effort of solving the many puzzles this places has to offer.” Clyde said relieved.

Wesley rolled his eyes. “Yes, this is a very lucky turn of events indeed, Uncle.” Wesley said agreeing with Clyde. “Just who is with us in the Pharos: Friend or foe?” Wesley would think out loud as his expression on his face suggested deep thought.

Lannit shrugged. “Whatever it is, let’s just hurry it up.” He said as he looked to everyone. As each of them would gather around the Way Stone, strong magicks would surround and warm them to the other side of it.

---

Walking around the base, Michel knew that the day would be eventful, but at the current moment, it was less than eventful. Actually, Michel would even go as far as to say that it has been very uneventful. Boss was busy preparing for shit, Lola was off doing gods-know what and even Meli was a little busy. Michel was the only one who had nothing to do. He was just walking around their base, which was located right underneath the temple of Mount Bur-Omisace. Michel found it a little funny that they were right under people’s noses and they literally had no idea.

As he continued to walk, Michel would feel a slight chill. He would look back, continuing walking, and as he looked back ahead of him, he found himself within a weird forest-like setting. Eerie shades of blue all around, trees and little lights or exits. Michel didn’t know where he was. He heard whispers all around him, then he hard something even spookier.

“Michelangelo…” Said an eerie an almost totally creepy voice.

Michel was instantly freaked out as he was looking all around and then he heard some branches crack from a certain tree. He would instantly activate his Fire Aura, ready to attack anything that dared to come near him. He didn’t know where exactly it was that he had been transported to, but if they were to kill him, he wouldn’t go down without a fight.

“Calm yourself, Michel.” Said the same voice that called out to him, but this time it would show itself.

“Wait, you’re Shemhazai!” Michel said surprised. “Where am I? Even better question, why am I here?”

Shemhazai smiled. “Do not be alarmed, child. You are in my eternal sanctuary, away from the dimension you residents of Ivalice reside in.” She informed him. “As to why I have brought you here, there is something important that I must tell you.” She said.

Michel’s attention was now with Shemhazai. “Okay and what would that be?” He asked curiously.

“The state of Ivalice is worse than I thought it was and every esper agrees.” Shemhazai said.

“Wait, what do you mean that every esper agrees? You all can talk to each other!?” He said surprised at this.

Shemhazai laughed. “You do not know your history, do you?” She smiled and laughed again. “The espers that you humes know of are in fact what some may refer to as the Lesser Beings of the Gods. We were created by what you call the Occuria and cause we opposed them, they sealed us off, only able to be in your plane of existence by the action of being summoned. However, due to our connection with each other, we are allowed to meet to talk when it is truly necessary.” Shemhazai told Michel.

Michel looked at her as if she was crazy, but then again, his line of work makes it so that he must be open-minded. “Okay, so what exactly it is that you all agreed on?” Michel asked.

“We all agreed that our efforts to give our owners the powers that were written in stone.” She said, “In other words, our owners will become The Chosen Ones.”

Michel’s eyebrows raised. “The Chosen Ones? What exactly do you mean?” He asked completely surprised.

“The Chosen Ones unite together and take on the darkness that threatens the stability of Ivalice.”

“You mean Zodiark?”

“Indeed.”

“Okay, so how do we — the owner of the Espers — become the Chosen Ones?”

As Michel asked that, Shemhazai just looked at him. She was assessing on whether or not he truly was ready for it. Her specific way of transforming her owner to The Chosen One was different from the others. She didn’t just give them physical and emotional power, but hers is more spiritual and bonded to the soul. Should she give it to Michel, he could die. “Michel, before I tell you how, you must answer me something first.”

“Okay, what?”

“In your heart and soul, do you really believe that The Blue Rose is really doing all that she does for the sake of Ivalice? Is she really doing it for the sake of the humes and other races or is she doing this out of pure hatred towards the Espers?”

Michel looked at Shemhazai, and he didn’t know where that came from. Was she really serious? Michel felt like she wasn’t, but she would ask such questions if she wasn’t serious. Michel really didn’t know. He thought she was, but if an Esper doubts his leader’s actions, then does that mean that Michel does too, at least on some level? That was the big question that he had to ask himself, but he couldn’t answer right away. “I--I can’t answer that now.”

“I see.” She simply said. She looked at Michel with curious eyes. “Call upon me when you have reached your answer, but don’t wait too long. Zodiark won’t wait forever until he makes his move.” Shemhazai would tell him, about to turn away, but she stopped. “This might be useful information for your leader. Tell her that The Dalmascan Prince and his friends are almost about to free another Esper, Hashmaal, The Bringer of Order.” She said as she was gone.

The next thing he knew, Michel was back at HQ with no time passing. “I must inform boss right away.”

---

“Zeromus, I’m sure you sensed that already.” Belias said, “Shemhazai has already made her advancements to her Chosen One. I have already done mine. You mustn’t waste anymore time. While my sky pirate and the Scion of Time are alone, you must reach out to, as Mateus’ own has called him, The Pussy Prince.” Belias let out a stoic laugh.

As they had arrived in Stigma, the trio would go on over to the Beaming Station. Once they were in Stigma's Aerodome, the prince would hesitate. Grant would raise an apologetic hand. "There is something I must confirm while I am here, if you do not mind." He would inform Jaakuna. "I will leave her to you, if you need me for whatever reason I will be at the castle. My sister is there, but I am her target, so even if something happens my brother will make sure nothing happens to you." He paused for a moment, thinking hard. "The Mists have shifted...no doubt that's another thing we may just have to deal with. I will ask Vlyn."

"You're leaving?" Emiri asked him curiously.

Grant nodded. "Don't worry, Jaakuna will take care of you. Hasn't failed once." Though I have. He would offer them a wave and depart his own way.

Emiri watched him leave, and then she would look at Jaakuna. "Where will we go?" She asked him.

---

The last time something had already been activated, she ended up with a katana through her gut. Nadeline couldn't help but narrow her eyes at the mechanism. Ordinarily she would be delighted in her surroundings, but she simply could not trust this. Not again. Wesley would mention it was lucky, and she immediately threw him a look. This was not luck or coincidence. Someone else was here with them. She didn't trust this situation at all. Her first thoughts were that Clyde was leading them into a trap; if that was the case, she was not going to hesitate to stab the bastard.

---

"And you are absolutely certain of this information?"

Lola nodded. "Yes. My Esper informed me as such...what does this mean?"

Shion closed one eye, the other looking down at her desk. She tapped her nails against the surface rather impatiently. "It would mean...that they've not only solved their issue, but they will do whatever it takes to ensure whatever little plan they have going on will continue." Her eyes closed for a moment, though they would open again. "Is Meli back, yet?" She asked, her voice coming out more impatient than she had intended. "I need to know if she is finished or not."

"Uh...not yet, Boss." Lola replied. "But why the rush? I mean it'll happen...Meli knows how to use it, so it's only a matter of time..."

She knew that already. Blue Rose glowed very softly, and Shion gently petted it. The fight with Jaakuna had been very useful in gathering information on Zodiark's abilities. While clearly it was not the real thing, it was an excellent chance to gather intel. The Blade of Ultima had proven much more useful than she had anticipated, though no doubt Zodiark was already working on a counter to it. Jaakuna would most likely try to cleanse himself, as she had not gotten the job done completely. Still, it was somewhat interesting that the girl of time was amnesiac at the moment. Was her existence so necessary that the Espers had done whatever it took to keep her around? Regardless this information would change nothing. They weren't any closer to obtaining Ultima, no thanks to Lola's less than stellar reports. She couldn't keep wasting time on it, either.

A dark shadow appeared on the floor, and Shion would stand. Meli would emerge from it, slightly panting. "My lady--apologies for...taking longer than anticipated." She murmured. "It is done." She stated, holding out the now Mist-less Midlight Shard."As predicted releasing the stone's Mist held catastrophic results...though it was more than we had thought, much more."

Shion eyed the empty Shard. "In times of desperation chaos is multiplied. You've done well." Shion stated, taking the Shard from her. "I'll have to thank Levi. The trinket had its use after all."

As they would touch ground in Stigma’s Aerodome, Grant would look at them and state that he was going to leave Emiri in Jaakuna’s care. Though slightly disappointed, Jaakuna figured why. He went to go address Vlyn about the recent shifts of the mist. He would also state that if they needed him, he would be in the castle despite his sister wanting him dead. He would also state that Lorenzo would not let anything happen to Jaakuna nor Emiri. Jaakuna smiled and spoke “You go do what you need to do. Emiri will be in good hands.” Jaakuna said as he offered Grant a nod and he departed.

Emiri would to Jaakuna, asking where exactly it was that they would were going. He smiled at her. “To a place that might help you remember who you are.” Jaakuna said as he would grab Emiri’s hand, not realizing what he did until they were already out of the Aerodome. Still, as they continued to walk, Jaakuna kept holding her hand, as if wanting her to possibly remember that feeling that she had whenever he would hold her in any way. Even if it was just a single thought or nostalgic feeling, Jaakuna wanted her to at least remember something.

As they continued down the streets, Jaakuna would take the long way. Sure, he wanted to take her to a certain place, but going the long way, it gave Jaakuna the opportunity to at least job Emiri’s memory of the scenery. He looked over to her. “So, anything about these streets you remember?” Jaakuna asked as they walked casually and still holding hands. At least she didn’t pull away, so that was good.

---

On the other side of the Way Stone, they were teleported to the twentieth floor. Clyde remembered reading about the Pharos and about at the 20th floor, there were puzzles to solve that included several physically and magically strenuous trials. Clyde would look to the left and see that as he walked through the open passageway, no glyph appeared and there was no absence of anything. It was definitely weird.

“So, get this.” CLyde said. “It seems that the rumored puzzles and anti-magick fields are de-activated.” Clyde revealed.

Wesley raised an eyebrow. “So, what does that mean, uncle?” He asked.

“Well, it means that we definitely aren’t alone and that someone has already gone through them and not only that, has shut them off.” Clyde said as he seemed slightly worried.

“So, is that good or bad?”
“Well, my dear nephew, I would say that depends on your view of the situation. I guess someone knew we were coming or at the very least, one of us were, and to prevent any halt of our mission, they got rid of anything that would stop us.”
“I would count that as good.”

Clyde nodded, but was definitely curious. If it truly was a good thing that the magick seals were de-activated and that everything that was meant to keep everyone out of The Pharos was gone/non-existant, then who exactly was here and why did they do such things? Those are the questions that Clyde found himself asking.

“Then, let’s get going.” Clyde said as they would proceed through the passageways, killing enemies as they came along. Each monster that they would kill would let out death screams, but that bothered them not. They were on a mission and they did not have the time to feel sorry for monsters that they have slain. Eventually, the group would reach yet another Way Stone. Like before, they would gather around it, touch it, and light would envelop them to which they would be transported to the other side of it, which was the fiftieth floor. They were over halfway there and though it was faint, they heard a boom off in the distance. “That couldn’t have been good.” CLyde said, curious about the boom that he heard, as was everyone else.

---

Michel was running throughout the headquarters, and he found himself at Shion’s office, busting through the door. He would come in just in time to see Meli rise up from her shadow. He would look at all three of them and instantly remember what Shemhazai told him. “Boss! There’s something you need to know.” Michel was so out of breath, he just talked and talked, “My esper just told me that the Dalmascan Prince Wesley and his friends are already at The Pharos and are for sure to free Hashmaal, Bringer of Order.” Michel finally stopped as he was catching his breath in a rather comedic fashion.

Jaakuna lead Emiri out of the Aerodome and down several streets. He would ask if she remembered any of this. She looked at each house, each person as they walked. The way the place felt was very odd. What was more odd was that he was holding her hand. No, it wasn't odd. They both told her that he was her loved one. Her one and only. So it wasn't odd at all. What was odd, truly, was that it felt right with her. Like it was supposed to be that way. That was odd. Odder still, as they kept on walking, her fingers intertwine with his, firming their grip together. She didn't even think about it, her hand just...reacted. Well, at least this way she knew he wasn't lying to her. Her body remembered, even if her mind didn't. She would take this as a good sign.

"It looks familiar, though I don't know from where." She would reply. "I feel like...I came here a very long time ago. But no matter how hard I try, I just...I don't know." She would tell him somewhat wistfully. "Should I know this place?" She asked him.

---

Grant walked through the streets, noticing that people had really clumped together. It made it somewhat harder to navigate for him, though he would notice a rather large crowd around Utena Hospital. He was in a rush to get to the castle, but he simply could not look away. Something told him he needed to find out what was going on. Spotting some very familiar faces, Grant would approach a group of girls that usually giggled, but they had very solemn looks on their faces. "Mikeala, how do you do?" He would ask the leader.

The girls all gasped, immediately greeting Grant in such a flurry it seemed like he had awakened a beehive rather than a group of young girls. Mikaela would wave them all to silence and she would step forward, her big brown eyes liquid. "Oh my prince! It's absolutely terrible!" She wailed, sniffling. "Why, the army has been bringing in so many people to the hospital..."

The army? This was the first he had heard of this. "Why is the army bringing people to the hospital?"

Mikaela frowned. "They say there was a magicite explosion at the Anther Mines! It was so big it wiped out half of Anther! The army was called to help people immediately...since Anther was on the shore, it resulted in a tsunami that flooded Clayx Beach and a couple of streets here. No one was hurt and there wasn't a lot of damage, but Anther...oh, it's so sad!" A few of the girls would start crying, the others comforting her. "Some of the Stigma soldiers got badly hurt. A lot of them died too--some which were our mommies and daddies."

Grant was absolutely shocked to hear this, his eyes widening in surprise. The Anther Mines were one of Rozarria's biggest sources of magicite. If there was an explosion there, no doubt Anther could have easily been leveled. Explosions were common, though...and with that thought, a rather horrifying thought crossed Grant's mind. Last he remembered, Andre's squad had been assigned to guard them. Without saying a word to the girls, Grant immediately started shoving through the crowds, not even bothering to apologize. He made his way through, getting into the hospital, though it was absolute pandemonium in there. Doctors and nurses were scrambling around frantically, and the soldiers that were conscious were clearly in pain.

"Your Highness, my deepest apologies, but if you have no ailments, I must ask you to leave." The receptionist would tell him, bowing deeply. "The explosion at Anther has left us packed, we're running out of room for the patients."

"I...of course." Grant nodded in agreement. "Please, if you need room, send some of these people to the Sepal Hotels, let them know the castle will cover any costs."

"Thank you, Highness, that is exactly what we need." He would bow once more, though before he could get away, Grant had to ask.

"Do you have a confirmed list of the casualties?"

"It was sent to the castle, my lord."

Grant would nod again and take off. He found himself running through the streets, shoving through people left and right. What in the world had happened? Was this what Aloa had meant with the Mist shifting? Was Lord Andre alright? He knew exactly where he would get his answers, and he found himself going faster. Of all the times for something like this to happen, why did it have to be now?!

---

Well at least someone shared Nadeline's worry, though to her disappointment it was not her husband. Instead it was Clyde of all people. The gods were truly testing her and enjoying every bit of irony here. Still, as they proceeded, she had a chill run up her spine. What was that? Before she could even try to think on it, a boom was heard. Whoa. Had the chill been because of that? No, the two were unrelated...though now she was distracted. She had to focus on what was going on in front of her. "That didn't sound too far." She would tell the group. "What could that be?"

---

Michel would burst in, alarming the three. He would tell them that the Dalmascan Prince and his allies were at the Pharos. Hashmaal would be his in no time, it seemed. Shion narrowed her eyes, thinking. So the group was split then, were they? Divided they would fall, then. She would go around her desk, facing the three. "Michel, Meli, the two of you should go and gather intel." She would state. "Lola, you're with me." She held out her hand to Meli. The woman would lightly tap her fingers, shuddering somewhat afterwards. "You all know what needs to be done."

As Nadeline would ask what exactly the loud boom was and said that it definitely didn’t sound good, the group released sounds that would suggest agreement with Nadeline, each doing sounds fitting their personality. Whatever the boom was, it sounded like it was just a mere few floors away, but what exactly it could be was on everyone’s mind. Clyde was especially worried about it.

“Whatever it is, we need to keep moving on just so we can get to the bottom of it.” Wesley would state.

Everyone just nodded and so they were off, moving through the various turns, killing some monsters along the way. That was one thing about The Pharos: each floor had their own challenges that included various types of monsters. No matter how many they killed, each floor they progressed up would present entirely different monsters. Even when they reached the 60th floor, these monsters were different each time, even some that were dangerous Wyrms, especially those kinds. Wesley didn’t know whether the group should fight them all or avoid as many of them as they could.

They were on the 65th floor and that was when they heard yet another boom and it was so much louder than before. The sound actually cause ripples through the air, causing minor discomfort in the ears of the group. Of course, they would grip their ears in response to that, but it was only about three seconds.

“God damn it!” Clyde yelled out in the annoyance of the booms. “What is happening here?”[/b]

Wesley had removed his hands from his ears. “I really don’t know, but it seems that the more we ascend, the louder the booms get. “ Wesley said.

“Thank you for pointing out the obvious.” Savayna retorted.

Ignoring Savayna, Wesley spoke once more. “I was going to say that we’re really close and I don’t think we have many more floors to go.”

---

While they were walking down the streets, Jaakuna would feel that Emiri’s grip of his hand got tighter and she would lock in her fingers with his. He just smiled at that. It was like before even though it really wasn’t. Jaakuna would just appreciate that something in her still remembered the feeling of how they were before her mind was wiped of all memory. Emiri would then respond to Jaakuna and state that while Stigma seemed familiar, she didn’t know from where yet. She said that she felt like that she came to Stigma a long time ago, but it wasn’t clicking in her mind.

Jaakuna smiled. “This was where you were born, Emiri.” Jaakuna said, telling her that Stigma was where she was conceived.

As she most likely felt some type of way from that little information, they would turn a corner and head down a street that was called Main Way. They would walk all the way down and would enter what Jaakuna remembered Emiri refer to it as the Slums of Stigma. It was full of old houses long since abandoned from the citizens in favor of the more newer, upscale homes. Jaakuna stopped in front of a house with grass growing almost three feet high and mold on the outer walls.

Jaakuna looked at Emiri and smiled. “Come with me. We’re going to jog that old noggin of yours.” Jaakuna cheerfully said, laughing slightly.

---

As Shion gave the orders, Michel would walk right on over to Meli, as he gave her a look. “On a mission yet again it seems.”He looked at her seductively, but would also be fully-aware of what Shion would say. “Yes boss!” Michel would say rather enthusiastically, as he would wait for Meli to do her shadow magick.

---

Eventually, Wesley and the others came to the 70th floor and as they came to a clearing, which seemed to be of an oval shaped with walls of stone surrounding it, and only one door at the other end. Wesley imagined that there would people here, as the boom was going on and on and on and on. It was by that had happened the group were gripping their ears as tight as they could. Screams of agony were released from their mouths, getting louder as time went on. As they went on, they couldn’t help but notice mild laughter coming in. Wesley and Savayna couldn’t help but look and it was coming from Clyde. It started as mild laughter, but as the minutes would go on, it escalated into louder laughter. Eventually, it got so loud it bordered psychotic. Wesley was confused and completely out of the loop. Why exactly was his Uncle Clyde laughing? And even stranger, the loud noise was gone.

“Uncle Clyde, you alright..?” Wesley would ask as he would then hear something he didn’t think he would. Clyde’s laughter soon became distorted, warped, and above all else, feminine. “Wait a minute..” Wesley said raising his eyebrow.. ”No, it couldn’t be..” He said as before he could finish off, it was revealed.

Clyde’s laugh was now that of a female, and his skin would soon shed like a snake, his body soon plopping to the ground hard. Soon it would be revealed to the group that Wesley, Savayna, and Nadeline all knew too well. “Oh my, I guess I couldn’t last, now could I?”A female voice said and

“Levi!” Savayna snarled

Wesley was more shocked than angry. Of course he was angry, but he just didn’t expect his uncle to be Levi. “Clyde..I mean Levi, how did you? When did you? Why did you?” Wesley was finding it to complete his sentences. “Where is my Uncle Clyde?”

Levi smirked and laughed. “Oh, that poor guy? He died days ago. Actually, it was when you three got Grant out of prison and saved The Scion of Time.” Levi would reveal. “I knew that his body would come in handy, so I covered myself in it.” Levi said laughing. “Oh speaking of which, a lot has happened. That poor dear, she never knew what hit her and poor Jaakuna. He was so lost. To think, he actually went with The Cleansing and almost completed it too.” Levi was just speaking out loud and just sounded so arrogant.

Wesley couldn’t believe it. His uncle…dead! Clyde was so strong. There was no way he could have lost to this bitch. “There’s no way! My Uncle Clyde might have been one of the most shallow people I knew, but there was no way he could lose to you.” Wesley was in complete denial.