[IC] Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

[AlteredTundra]

Jaakuna heard and felt every bit of it. He heard the cries from Emiri, he felt the pain of losing blood at a fast rate. He could hear the prince yell out for his father, but he couldn’t move. Despite everything, Jaakuna was paralyzed. The worst part was that he felt every bit of the pain from the lightning that held him still. He couldn’t move and he just didn’t know what to do.

Then it happened.

Jaakuna felt something. It was a bunch of somethings. First it was the curaga spell from Nadeline, but it seemed to only ease the pain for a bit. Then, he felt Emiri. He felt her emotions flowing into him, and then his skin somehow repaired itself. It was her ability. It was back and this time it saved his life. Then, there was another curage spell. Jaakuna could move, he could stand, but he still felt weak. It was still too early for him to be up, but still he was at least able to stand.

“I’m alive?” Jaakuna looked around as he felt his body. “Emiri, y-y-you saved my life.” His face was full of shock and happiness. He was probably still out of it, but he couldn’t help himself. He hugged her, and proceed to kiss her. He was truly grateful to her.

On the other side of the room, Nadeline had went over to Wesley to comfort him. He was so out of it, he didn’t even know what to do. His father was dead and by right, he should be king, but he didn’t know what to do.

“Who--Who did this?!?!” His stuttering was mixed with crying of sadness and yelling of anger. He just couldn’t decide which he was more of: sadness or anger..

---

As Judge Ixion appeared on the ground floor of the Royal City of Rabanastre, he would walk a bit more until the Odin was in sight. In seconds, he was beamed up. As he walked from the beaming station and he walked his way through the ship, it would take him about ten minutes to get to the cockpit where Savayna was waiting for him.

“Judge Magister Ixion, welcome back sir!” She said.

Ixion smiled. “Thank you Savayna.” He replied.

“Were you able to obtain the Dusk Shard?” she asked.

He sighed. “No, I am afraid not. Your former husband got in the way of that and his two friends as well.” He expressed.

Savayna was livid. “Jaakuna was here!?” She yelled and asked at the same time.

Ixion sighed in annoyance. “Oh, calm it down. He didn’t have it either, but I did learn of some pretty interesting information.” He mused.”

Savayna looked interested in this information. “What is that sir?”

He stood watching the skies as the remaining fleets of the Archadian Empire returned to Archadia. “Princess Nadeline Roselia was with your ex-hubby.” He said smiling.

“Who?” She asked not knowing who this woman was.

Ixion chuckled. “A very important person within the Rozarrian Empire. “ He replied.

“And why is that important, sir?” She asked.

Ixion smiled. “Well, we could use this to our advantage.” He replied. “We will report this to his majesty, Emperor Vincent. I’m sure he will find use of this information.” He said.

The ships would arrive to Archadia within an hour’s worth of time.

[Hero]

Oh thank the gods. Emiri sighed in relief as Jaakuna got up, standing as well. Still he managed to surprise her with both a hug (it had come out of nowhere and she wasn't expecting him to be able to do it) and a kiss (same reasoning as a hug except she didn't think he would do it in public). She felt a spark (literally) as he touched her, but she was so glad he was alright that she didn't really care. Still, was it really back? She tested it out, and saw no result. No, it was still gone...how did she manage to activate it again? Were her prayers really answered? But as she looked up into those green eyes of his, so full of joy and life, she didn't really care right now. She didn't care about anything else. Jaakuna was okay. That's all that mattered.

Nadeline looked to the throne, then knelt down and looked at the prince, eye-to-eye. "You need to calm yourself first before we can do anything, including divulging any information. I implore you, steady your emotions and your mind." She told him sternly, making sure she never broke the eye contact. It really tore her up to see him like this--the entire situation was terrible--but first and foremost the mind had to be clear to understand anything. The last thing she wanted was more brash decisions and she made a mental note to scold Emiri later on. Only with a level mind could one properly act. Once she deemed him calm enough, she continued, "When we had arrived, Judge Ixion's sword had already taken your father's life."

[AlteredTundra]

Jaakuna didn’t know whether the kiss went on for one second or one minute, he just embraced it. The day has been long, and Jaakuna almost died. He probably should sit down or at the very least, rest, but kissing Emiri seemed like the only thing he wanted to do right now. She had pretty much saved his life and he was just so happy.

After a minute or so, Jaakuna found the control to pull away, but he was just looking into her eyes. He didn’t know when the next time would be that he would have a close call with death. He thought he was going to die just now. “Emiri, I love you.” He said it! He actually said it and he felt good about it. Just saying it aloud again, and not in anger, was truly something wondrous. “I just don’t want to waste any more time. If the events of today taught me anything it’s that life is short and if you don’t seize it, then regrets will be had.” He said. He was just overtaken by emotions and made some lightheadedness, but he didn’t give a fuck.

On the other side of the room, Nadeline and Wesley were talking. Well, it was more like she was talking and he was listening. He started to calm down, as Nadeline had pointed out. She was right. He needed to be calm for all of this. And then she said it. The murderer of his father — the former King of Dalmasca — was Judge Magister Ixion, the Lightning Falcon. He got up.

“I see.” Wesley walked over to the throne, passing by Jaakuna and Emiri, who no doubt followed him. “I heard almost all of it. He was after the Dusk Shard.”Wesley said as he reached into his father’s pocket and there it was. “Funny, the guy didn’t know it was there at his grasp the whole time. “ He said holding the Dusk Shard. “ And here is one of three Defected Nethicite that all three empires strive to have, and in this room, two of them are present.” He said. “Yes, Jaakuna, I know you have it — I’ve always known.” He said. “But alas, I do not wish to have it, but I do wish to offer you my thanks, and I will see to it that your crimes are cleared and covered up from public knowledge.” He said, promising to clear the charges. “However, I do wish to accompany you on your journey. I want to see to it that whatever war is going on does not end in my country’s downfall.” He stated, waiting for the responses of the three in the room.

[Hero]

It looked like Jaakuna was full of surprises, really. Emiri was once more shocked at when he basically confessed. She was actually speechless; how do you even respond to something like that? Wait, no, that's not right, it should be obvious. But it wasn't. Everything was just happening so fast! But he said it, and he meant it, and she felt really, really glad. All her feelings seemed to melt away, however, when the Dusk Shard was produced. It had been here all along, had it? The thought of being around two of those things made Emiri feel sick. She also felt partly guilty, so to speak. Maybe Jaakuna wouldn't have gotten hurt if they had known. Then again, it might have been for the better, as now the two shards were in their possession. She was surprised when Wesley expressed his desire to join the group.

Nadeline looked at the Dusk Shard briefly before looking at Wesley. "With all due respect, Highness, you don't think it best for you to stay and regroup your forces here in Rabanastre? I am sure the people will need you...after..." Her voice trailed off, but she was clearly referring to the King's demise. "...Then again, maybe not. They may come again, and if you are not here, they will have no reason to occupy Rabanastre. Perhaps it really is for the best."

[AlteredTundra]

Jaakuna had admitted something quite personal and no doubt a surprise to Emiri. It was only a half of a minute and Jaakuna was still in…some type of mood that made him just feel so surreal. Maybe it was just what he was feeling and telling the one he loves all about or maybe it was just him almost dying that put all of this into perspective. Regardless, Jaakuna knew what he felt and he wasn’t going to back away now. When he was just about to say something, he heard what Wesley said about wanting to join the group.

What Nadeline said about the matter was true, but then again, Jaakuna can sympathize with the man. The two of them were on similar boats. Jaakuna fled Archadia when his father died and the prince here wants to do the same thing. However, Jaakuna was in a very different situation. “Hey, if you want to leave your people and live on the run with us, that’s fine with me, but shouldn’t you appoint a leader for your country first?” Jaakuna said as he turned to Wesley. He did know that there would be some kind of process, but was it really logical for Wesley to abandon his home in the time of need? Jaakuna didn’t really know.

Hearing the words of Jaakuna and Nadeline. He knew they were right, but thankfully he had a sister who would be next in line for the throne. “Worry not, I have myself a baby sister who will take the throne. I will set up arrangements for her coronation. I also have to make arrangements for my father’s cremation.” He said putting the Dusk Shard in his pocket. “Give me 12 hours, I will have everything settled for my departure.” He said, “Until then, I personally invite you three to stay in the palace as my many thanks for your service to my people and the kingdom of Dalmasca.” He said, offering them a place to sleep for the night as evening looms over the Kingdom of Dalmasca and its Royal City of Rabanastre.

[Hero]

"And she graces us with her divine presence, the gods do smile on us today!" A man with blonde hair shouts, flashing a grin that would make most women melt in their places.

Reia entered her office to find both of her younger brothers seated before her desk. She let out a small huff of indignance, though sat in her own seat. She leaned back, her eyes flickering from the two of them. She had a bone to pick with each one, really, but for different reasons. To her right sat her younger brother, Lorenzo. He shared Reia's blonde locks, but the man never did take the throne seriously. She chalked it up to having his wife and child, but in reality she knew he was just a lazy bum. To her left sat the youngest sibling, Grant. He was raven haired, like their late father, though he was a mystery even to her. The two brothers looked expectantly at their Empress.

"Lorenzo, Grant." Reia spoke, peering at both of them. "Look at that, the gang's all here. How is Karolina?"

"Oh dearest Sunshine, we came all the way here for you." Lorenzo beamed happily. "And she is doing well, thanks for asking."

"Watch it, Lorenzo, I'm not in the mood for any shenanigans today." Reia snaps at him, reaching over her desk and smacking him upside the head. The blonde lets out a howl of laughter, clearly not taking the situation seriously.

Luckily for her, her baby brother was more preoccupied with their summons as opposed to fooling around. "Reia, why are we here?" Grant asks.

"Your doll was seen stirring up trouble in Bhujerba." Reia huffed. "The Council is concerned that the Marquis may...send out some concern to us."

Grant glares at Reia, though it is Lorenzo that responds, "Why are they so concerned? I heard an Archadian General was the cause of whatever problems there were." He says it innocently, though he seemed well informed.

"It was merely a show of force. No doubt they've also caught wind of her." Reia sighs, rubbing her temples. She didn't bother noting Vlyn and Aloa's failure.

"Actually, it seemed the General's target was a Sky Pirate." Lorenzo piped up. "The Ifrit was spotted, too."

"Why do you know so much about this?" Grant asked Lorenzo curiously, voicing Reia's exact thought.

"Nadeline told me." He replied. His two siblings then stare at him for a moment. "What?"

"You really have no control over your child." Grant voices both of their thoughts. "Seriously. She's a princess, she shouldn't be out of your sight, let alone in another country. Is she even here, or has she already departed to who knows where?"

Lorenzo scowled, crossing his arms. "Neither of you even have children of your own, you're in no place to be judging. Besides, she's like her mother, a free spirit. Containing her to the palace is cruel." Grant and Reia exchanged a look, though dropped the subject. "But yes, it seems the girl was seen with said Sky Pirate, though they escaped."

Grant frowned, though he said nothing. Reia noticed and smirked a bit. She decided to tease him, saying, "[b]Your doll seems to be going on and about with a Sky Pirate. Quite a shock, I suppose she's up and forgotten all about you by now. I bet he's handsome./b]"

"I thought the engagement was off." Lorenzo said.

"Depends on Grant's mood."

"And he says I can't control my child!"

"She isn't his child, you dimwit, she's his fiancé. "

"At least Nadeline likes me."

"Have you two had enough? Or do you need another moment to continue mocking me?!" Grant shouted, glaring at them. "I thought this meeting would be about the attack on Rabanastre, anyway. If Archadia claims Dalmasca they will be right at our doorstep. Pray tell what a Sky Pirate has to do with any of this?"

Lorenzo piped up once more, "The Sky Pirate is supposedly the missing Prince Jackson of Archadia. Isn't that odd?"

Grant tapped his fingers on the desk, thinking. Emelia was with a prince. Why? His previous flare of anger slightly enflamed again. Just thinking about her in the presence of another man did that to him. He then looked at Reia. "Who says that she is with him of her own will?" He asks quietly.

Reia narrows her eyes at Grant, though she turns to Lorenzo. "How do you know all this?"

"Nadeline told me. Although she wasn't a hundred percent certain...though he did interact with the Marquis as well."

The Empress rolled her eyes. It was bad enough she had Archadia to worry about, now she had to deal with Grant's doll and a Sky Pirate. "Where IS Nadeline? I'd like to ask her some questions."

"Gone, of course."

She figured as much. He really can't control his child.

[AlteredTundra]

Back in Archcades, The Odin and the rest of the fleet returned, boarding in Archades’ Imperial Army private Aerodome, Judge Ixion and General Savayna depart from the ship and they make their way to Emperor Vincent’s office to deliver their report personally. Usually they would just send him their reports separately and in paper/folder form, but the matters at hand really call for a personal visit. Besides, the information that Judge Ixion has gathered will be truly crucial to his highness.

As they appeared in his office, Vincent sits in his chair as he had thusly motioned them to come in. They walked down, with Savayna on the right and Ixion on the left. The sounds of clanking metal could be heard, mainly from Ixion’s armor as the metal was more sturdy and thick than Savayna’s. Even though Savayna’s was lighter than Ixion’s, it still made a metal-clanking sound. As they came to a stop at the steps.

“So, I assume the invasion went as planned?” Vincent said as he sat at his desk in a relaxed manner.

Savayna spoke. “Your highness, I think Judge Magister Ixion should be the one to tell you.” She said looking down. She didn’t want to make him angry again.

Ixion looked to Savayna, he huffed, but said nothing to her. “It did not go as we had initially planned. “ He said.

Vincent wasn’t mad, but he wanted to know what went wrong. “Do tell me what error there was in our plan?”

“The initial attack was successful and even when I went into the palace personally, it was successful, but I ran into some… unforeseen obstacles.” He said as disappointment took over his tone.

Vincent was intrigued. “Unforeseen obstacles?” Vincent curiously asked.

Ixion coughed, “Your brother, your lordship. Him and a couple of ladies got in the way.” He said.

Vincent almost lost his cool there, but he regained his composure. “I see and did you deal with my brother and these two women?” He asked showing restraint in anger.

“I’m sorry, your lordship, but due to our fleet being pushed back, we had to retreat. However,” He said.

“However?” Vincent asked.

“However, I did find out some interesting information.” He said as cleared his throat. “One of the women with Prince Jackson was a blonde by the name of Nadeline Roselia , the Princess of the Rozzarian Empire and third to the throne.” He said, revealing who one of the blonde women were.

Vincent smiled. “This is most excellent. This will definitely work in our favor. “ He said getting up. “Does she know you know?” He asked.

Ixion shook his head. “No, your highness.”

“Good, let’s keep it that way.” He said.

Vincent walked over in front of his desk, and looked at the two in front of him. “I thank you for your report. You two may leave now.” He said as he was leaning against his desk and motioned the two of them to leave.

As they left, Vincent was riveting in the new information he just received. He knew what he was going have to do and perhaps something positive would come out of all of this. Vincent would have to be put in contact with Rozarria.

“Please send in Michel.” He said as he pressed a button on his desk that would send a message to his assistant, which she would send in Michel. Within minutes, Michel would arrive.

“You requested me sir?” Michel said as he bowed on one knee.

“I need your skills.” Vincent said as he had his arms behind his back.

Michel’s eyes widened in joy, but he remained in a calm composure. “I will do whatever you request sir. “ He said.

Vincent was pleased. “That’s good to hear. Now listen up, “

---

6 hours later
In Rabanastre, the streets are full of destruction, but the citizens are still alive, well the ones that weren’t blown to bits. At the very least, they can start to rebuild their city a little bit at a time. It’s the spirits of the citizens that will keep the city alive even in time of disaster. As the citizens will rebuild the spirit of the city, within the palace, there is a feast being in the King’s honor. At the table is the royal family and the three people that at least tried to save the king; Jaakuna, Emiri, and Nadeline.

In the royal dining hall, there is a table that has a bunch of different kind of food on it which includes several main and side dishes and just anything that one can imagine. Above the lighting is prepared by a giant chandelier that just hangs and provides a special kind of light fueled by Magicite that creates a certain luminescence brightness to the room, which just adds to the overall wonderous look the dining room has.

At the head of the table is Prince Wesley. He stands holding a glass.

“I would like to dedicate this glorious meal to my father, Jonathan Rufus Dalmasca. He was a proud, stubborn man, but he loved his country with all of his heart. Even in the last moments of his death, he defended his country and would not tell the enemy anything. For that, I would like to celebrate his memory tonight. Here here!!” He said as he toasted to his father and the man he was.

At the table to the left of him was his baby sister, Cassandra Annalise Dalmasca. She wore a simple black dress laced with white and gold jewels around it. The dress itself was made with silk, so her natural curves were obviously shown. The rest of the family was just her uncles, aunts, and other such relatives. The announcement that the eighteen year old would be named the Princess and ruler of Dalmasca hit her hard, but she will accept it.

Jaakuna was dressed in some fancy Formal wear that he hated wearing, but he had to for this special occasion. “Damn, I hate formal dinners like this.” He said as he leaned to Emiri, who was sitting next to him to his right, and Nadeline was next to Emiri. “Don’t you hate them too, Emiri?”

---

When Michel heard what Vincent had to say, he was in shock, but the more that he talked to him about how Prince Jackson was running around with one of the princesses of the Rozarrian Empire, Vincent thought it would be a good idea for Michel to go to Stigma, the capital of the Rozarrian Empire and somehow work out a temporary truce between the two empires to get what they wanted. It would be interesting to say the least.

As he neared Stigma in his unbranded Airship, Michel pulled into the area where Airships go. As he pulled in, and proceeded to walk through the entracne of Stigma’s Aerodomehe was stopped by Rozarrian officials.

“State your name, occupation, and business on Stigma.”
“Michelangelo Von Sicarius. I am the head of Archadia’s Stalth operations, personal assistant to General Savayna Glacie-Darcone. I was sent here on urgent matters on behalf of his majesty, Emperor Vincent Darcone. I have…information that I think the Empress herself would like to hear.”

[Hero]

The three siblings heard a knock on the door, each one looking to it. Reia motioned for Lorenzo to go get it, who in turned looked at Grant. When he received Grant's piercing glare in response, Lorenzo groaned and dragged himself to the door. Despite not being the youngest, he always found that he was the one always being bossed around. Some things never changed he supposed. As he got to the door, he opened it to reveal one of the Empress' personal handmaidens. She gave Lorenzo a deep bow before straightening herself up.

"Your Excellence, it would seem a man by the name of Michelangelo Von Sicarius has requested an audience with you. He claims to be from Archadia. Shall I show him to your throne room?" She asked.

Lorenzo looked at Reia, who shot a look at him. "Yes...I will be right there." She murmured, waving the woman away.

As the lady bowed and took her leave, Lorenzo darted over back to his sister and brother. "Whoa, whoa, what? That guy's a high ranking officer, isn't he?" Lorenzo asked, looking from Grant to Reia. "The hell does he want?"

Reia stood up, ignoring Lorenzo, and began to walk out. The brothers immediately began to follow, and the three walked together through the halls. They stopped outside the throne room, where Reia looked back at the trailing Lorenzo and Grant. She cleared her throat, waving them away. "Now, now, children, your big sister has some business to attend to." She told them sternly, opening the door. "Archadia is up up something, I just know it. I will handle the situation." The two looked at one another before pushing past her. She had half a mind to yank both their hairs out. Most people would never dare to do what they had done; even touching the Empress was a crime in itself. Still, the two were very interested in what the Archadian had to say, and so as Reia took her seat, the two men stood by her side. They hardly ever listened to their only sister anyway.

"Your Grace, our guest awaits you outside. Shall I send him in?" Another servant asks.

"Behave." She growls at both Grant and Lorenzo. After regaining her composure, she beckons to the servant. :Send him in."

------

Emiri hated the event almost as much as Jaakuna did: she just did a better job at hiding it. Between suddenly becoming Nadeline's personal servant ("You must help me with my clothes and hair! What? I dress myself? The events of the evening require something FORMAL, and I for one refuse to look like a rapscallion!" she had said) and her dress up doll ("Darling, I will make you the belle of the ball! ...I know it's not a ball, now hush and let me brush your hair. Oh how exciting, I never got to dress anyone before!" she had insisted) she really would have rather stayed in the room and slept. On any other day, perhaps she would not have minded it, but Nadeline made things difficult. Her own violet dress was something Nadeline had picked out, and it was relatively much more revealing then any other formal wear she usually wore. Her hair had been whipped up into a bun of sorts and decorated with flowers. She may have looked nice, but she felt every breeze fly by crawl up her exposed back and neck, and she was somewhat uncomfortable from that.

"Nonsense." Nadeline spoke before Emiri could answer Jaakuna. "You tidy up well. In fact, I believe you look rather dashing, Jaakuna."

She was right. And he did. Except for the fact that Nadeline was clearly outshining most of the women (and men) at the table. Her usual free curls had been pinned back, revealing her face in its entirety. Her own gorgeous gown was of the finest quality, its color doing wonders to contrast her golden hair and her blue eyes. Her legs were accentuated and for the first time in a while, Emiri had noticed how graceful Nadeline looked, making the entire thing look effortless. She vaguely recalled how long it took to pick out the stupid dress; Nadeline was so darn picky it was annoying.

Emiri coughed a bit, adjusting Jaakuna's collar. "You either get used to them or grow to despise them." She commented lightly, raising an eyebrow at Nadeline.

The blonde haired girl grinned, lightly grabbing Emiri by the shoulders. "Pish posh, Jaakuna, do tell Emiri how wonderful she looks." She said playfully.

[AlteredTundra]

On Stigma, Michelangelo had thought that he would get red-flagged, but it would seem that the Empress had accepted his request of having an audience with her. Michel was pleased with that. Even still, it was definitely dangerous for him to be in the enemy capital. Any misstep, and he could find himself locked in prison or yet, even worse: dead. He must choose his words carefully.

As he waited outside of the throne room, the servant notified him that he was granted permission to enter the throne room. So, as he did just that, he walked down the red carpet, only to stop before her majesty, Reia Alexandria Roselia. As he would come to a stop, he would see that a few others were within the room. Michel saw and in front of him, he saw the two crown princes of Rozarria: Grant Marshall Roselia and Lorenzo Jeremiah Roselia.

Michel bowed in front of the three in front of him. “I, Michelangelo von Sicarius of the Archadian Empire bare an important message from my lord, Emperor Vincent Orgull Darcone.” He said, still bowing. Michel knew of proper etiquette, and he knew when to speak his name and he knew when to shut up. This is why he is the head of the Stealth Division of the Archadian Empire.

---

The feast went on and while everyone was stuffing their faces(not really but whatever), Jaakuna was spending the minutes admiring Emiri. He didn’t think it was possible, but that dress of hers made her look even more beautiful than she was beforehand.

“Emiri, wow..” He said looking to Emiri, “Just wow, you look absolutely breathtaking.” Jaakuna as he was not even bothering with the meal in front of them. He just wanted to stare at her all night long and if he had his way, he would do just that.

[Hero]

The Empress eyed the man before her warily. Both Grant and Lorenzo remained still, but all of them had the same thought crossing their minds. The Emperor had a message for her; if so, why not send it by letter? Obviously it had to be important, otherwise they would not have sent a person bearing said message. Still, it couldn't possibly mean any good news. She had been in the same room with this man not even a minute and already she felt the urge to kick him out. Complications, complications, nothing would ever go as it should. "Speak, then. I'm all ears." She invited the man to bear his lord's wishes, granting him permission to speak.

---

Nadeline feigned ignorance of their conversation, but was relatively pleased. Emiri's face turned slightly red at Jaakuna's words. and she shifted slightly in her seat. This entire thing was too stuffy and too reminiscent of the days where she'd sit next to Grant at his many, many galas. Obviously, she wasn't in the mood to eat, neither was he. Emiri made sure no one was watching as she stood up, and she beckoned Jaakuna to follow as she excused herself. She walked out to the hall, making the first left onto the balcony nearby. The sky was clear, and the noise of the dining hall became a pleasant buzz. She leaned against the balcony, watching the view of the streets below.

[AlteredTundra]

Pleased to hear that the Empress allowed him to speak, Michelangelo did as such. He stood up, He placed a hand into his back pocket, but that seemed to alarm a guard. “It’s okay, not pulling out a weapon.” He said as he put his other hand out as it to calm the nerves of the others. He pulled out a letter. He would open it, roll it out, and it was moderately long.

“Your highness, and princes of Rozarria, in my hand, I hold a letter personally for our ears only. I shall read it aloud.” He said as he cleared his throat, and read it.

Dear Royal family of Rozarria,

By the time this letter is in your ears, my faithful subornidate, Michelangleo von Sicarius has arrived in your capital. I write this to inform you of some information that has came to my attention just recently.

During Archadia’s invasion of Rabanastre, one of my Judge Magisters stumbled upon my dear brother and two ladies he was with. There was a brunette — one who I know not the name of. The other, a blonde, she I found the name out of. Her name is Nadeline Roselia, Princess of Rozarria.

I felt that sharing this could lead to common interests. If you find this information valuable, then meet me in Archades when Michel returns. I expect an acceptance or rejection of my offer.

Sincerely,
Vincent Orgull Darcone, Emperor of the Archadian Empire

As Michel finished the letter, he rolled it up, and presented it to the Empress herself. He would bow and hold the letter up.

---

While the feast itself was grand and on any other day, Jaakuna would want to eat, but there was just something in him that didn’t want to eat. That’s probably why he followed Emiri as she had slipped out. He would make his exit as quietly as he could. He made minimal noise, and he would come to the balcony just seconds after Emiri did.

Joining her at looking at the sky, Jaakuna couldn’t help but really admire the Dalmascan sky. It really was peaceful. The way the clearness of the midnight blue and the whiteness of the stars beamed off of the majestic moon just made looking up at it all the more beautiful. Though, as he glanced over at Emiri, it seemed that all he cared about this night was how majestic she looked.

“You know we’re going have to talk about it eventually, right?” Jaakuna said as he leaned against the ledge back first.

[Hero]

Talk about it? Talk about what? For one reason or another, she was drawing a blank. She wasn't sure if it was because she felt so tired (once again it seemed like her usual energy was depleted faster then usual) or her terrible memory, but she didn't have a clue to what Jaakuna was talking about. She racked her head nervously, trying to remember. After a moment it hit her, and suddenly she felt slightly uncomfortable. Emiri blinked at him, then turned back to the sky. He seemed sure of himself, but she couldn't say she was right there with him. No, that wasn't right. She did want to be at the same level, but every time she thought about it she would feel a pit in her stomach. What could she say? 'I think I like you but I'm not sure what I feel' or 'I like you not love you and I'm too scared of my ex-fiance popping up and ripping your head off'? Yeah, that pit was back.

Emiri exhaled slightly,running a hand over her hair. She had to say something. But she was afraid. What if she drove him away? What then? She didn't want to hurt him, but she didn't want to say she didn't feel the same. Every time she would think back on their kiss she felt butterflies and all that good stuff. She finally drove herself to look at him, and regretted it instantly. He was staring so intently at her. "Talk about what?" She asked, slightly hoping it was something else. She highly doubted it, however.

-------

Were she alone, Reia would have surely broken something. The possibility of said thing being a body part of her little brother would be high. Not only did the sky pirate have the girl who controlled time (no doubt the brunette he spoke of), apparently her dear niece Nadeline was around as well. What in the world was Nadeline thinking? Was she going to bring the girl back? This was becoming more of a headache then anything. Actualy, it was more of an outrage. If that Judge had so much as laid a finger on Nadeline, he would have to answer for it. Though she doubted it...Reia waved the letter away, crossing her arms. She knew she wasn't going to like this one bit.

Reia looked at Lorenzo and Grant, who managed to keep their excellent poker faces, though Lorenzo looked more like an idiot then usual. "Asking me to go to Archades after launching an attack on Rabanastre...a bold move." Reia said, raising an eyebrow at Michel. "Though I won't say that you came all this way for nothing." The Empress beckoned Grant forward, looking once more at Michel. "Due to the current circumstances, I cannot leave Stigma. Instead I will send Prince Grant in my place. I expect your Emperor to hold him in the same regard that he would if I had gone."

[AlteredTundra]

Jaakuna wasn’t sure if she was serious or if she was just pulling his leg. Regardless, Jaakuna knew he had to tell her what he was referring to. Like, seriously, this was something new for him too, but he said it and he felt that at the very least, he needed to address it with her. The two of them have been through a lot in these two days. It almost seems like it has been a lifetime, but maybe that’s cause it WAS a lifetime ago. In any case, Jaakuna spoke. “You know, about what I said earlier, after you healed me.” Jaakuna spoke looking at her, then at the sky, then back to her and he saw her face —her beautiful, beautiful face.

---

Michel stood as composed as he could. He didn’t want to say anything that would land him in trouble, so he would just stand still and let the princes decide it out. After they had talked it out(sort of), it would seem that Prince Grant would go with Michel back to Archades. Michel nodded at the decision. “Fine, then let us not keep my Emperor waiting. We should go now. If we hurry, we may make it to Archades before midnight.” He said as he waited for Prince Grant to follow him, and of course, until he was granted permission to leave. It would be rude if Michel were to do otherwise.

[Hero]

"Do send him my regards." She looked at Grant, who rolled his eyes. She shot him a look back as he gave up.

"Let us be on our way, then." Grant murmured, displeased. He really didn't want to go, but he couldn't ignore her in front of guests. It's not that he didn't want to get to the bottom of things, but it was an inconvenience to have to travel. Still, he couldn't ignore the possibility of getting Emelia back. That sole thought was enough of a reason to go, even if it was under Reia's orders. "After you, my good man." He nodded to Michel, ready to follow him.

-------

Of course it was what she didn't want to talk about. Now she was really screwed. She started messing with her fingers nervously, trying to not look nervous. Well, no, nervous was not the right word. What was the right thing to say? What was the right thing to do? What did he want her to say? Her head was swimming with possibilities, but none of them really seemed right. It really did seem like forever ago when the two met. Everything was just...it was just too fast. But she didn't want to ignore it. She didn't want him to take it back, either. Maybe instead of thinking, she should just act. No thoughts, no hesitations...just doing stuff.

Emiri rubbed her arm, though she did turn to him, only to find him looking at her again. The way Jaakuna looked at her was different from him. She found herself smiling, and she nodded. "It really surprised me...what about it?" She asked him.

[AlteredTundra]

When the permission was granted, both Prince Grant and Michel were on their way. They would find themselves in Michel’s personal two-seater light cruiser that was so fast that within a half of an hour, they would be in Archades. Michel didn’t know what to say to the prince. Unlike his experiences with princes, this one seemed a bit different than others. Michel instantly had the feeling that this man had something about him, something mysterious, but he couldn’t place it. Michel didn’t speak the whole way as it would just be awkward and uncomfortable for the both of them

Nearly there, Michel pulled into Archadian airspace, and would soon port into the Aerodome. It would only be minutes until they got out of the airship, and the two of them would be in the Aerodome. Michel motioned Grant to follow him as his majesty wouldn’t want to waste any time.

“Please, follow me. I’m sure Emperor Vincent would like to speak with you at once.” Michel said as he led the way for Grant to go to the Emperor’s office in the biggest building within Archades.

---

Jaakuna had no doubts that his surprised her, but what she doesn’t know is that it surprised him too. He had already admitted it to Nadeline in a fit of anger, but when he told Emiri, it freaked him out. It wasn’t something he intended on blurting out, at least not so soon. But, the moment that he and Emiri shared, it was just something that felt right.

“Yeah, I can imagine.” Jaakuna just laughed slightly at that. “It surprised me too. I’ve never really been in a place where I could say that in about three years, but when you saved my life,” He said, looking into Emiri’s eyes, taking her hands, “it just came out. Now, I’m not saying that it wasn’t already there, but with everything we’ve been through, especially today, I just..I don’t know, I guess I felt that if I didn’t say it, it would be too late.” Jaakuna said, still having her hands in his. “And I think it’s just something we really need to address. Even if you don’t return the same feeling, I just want to be able to talk about it.” Jaakuna said as in the back of his head, he’s realizing how freaking cheesy and corny he sounds right about now.

[Hero]

Emiri watched Jaakuna speak, and she didn't feel so nervous anymore. That wasn't to say it was all gone. She was really afraid of saying the wrong thing, really, as she didn't even know the right thing to say. As he took her hands in his, she made sure to listen carefully. The way he spoke sounded like Nadeline had told him exactly what to say, right out of one of her romance novels. She let out a small smile, though it faded as he spoke about how even if she didn't share the same feeling, he still wanted to talk about it. There was no avoiding it, she supposed. She looked up at him, getting closer to him for some reason. "Well...I'm all ears." She responded softly, looking up at him.

-------

The trip was a silent one. Not that Grant wasn't one for conversation, but what do you talk about with someone from an enemy Empire? He let the silence stretch out; if Michel wasn't going to bother, neither would he. Well, at the very least he should have complimented the man's ship. Stylish, quick, just how he liked it. Once they arrived, Grant couldn't help but look around. Archades was as great as everyone said it was; as he had never had a reason to visit, this would be his first time. He followed Michel willingly, agreeing that the faster this was over with, the better. He admired the folk and buildings. It was much more modern then he had thought. It would seem as if Archadia on the whole was very modern, whereas Rozarria was more ont he traditional side.

Nonetheless, he followed Michel. Hopefully this little meeting would go well.

[AlteredTundra]

She wasn’t making this easy for him. Jaakuna was definitely having a hard time just getting the words out in some aspect, but her limited responses were making him take the initiative. He would, of course, but it was a little awkward for him. He never was one to address such matters first, but he’ll do what he can.

“It’s no doubt that we started off to a rocky foot. I’m sure there is no surprise there, but these past two days have been, well wonderful. Even though we’ve had moments of almost leaving each other in the wind, I like to think that we’re grown closer — way closer.” Jaakuna said as he did as he said, and pulled her closer, looking down to her(he’s taller, it’s a natural thing). “I’ve saved your life a couple of times and you mine. And with everything that has happened, I’ve found myself loving you, Emiri. As corny and cheesy as that might sound, it’s the very truth. I love you.” Jaakuna said as his body and hers were close to her.

---

Entering the Emperor’s office, Michel and Grant proceeded to walk down the carpet and there sat Vincent waiting patiently. In front of his desk was a chair as well. Vincent waved for Michel to leave them be, so he did. “Prince Grant, let me be the first to welcome you to my city. Please do have a seat.” He said motioning Grant to take a seat. There would be many things for them to talk about.

[Hero]

Grant watched Michel leave, noting to request a private cabin back and save himself another awkward trip. He graciously bowed before Vincent, and then took the seat in front of his. "You'll have to forgive the Empress, the meeting was too sudden for her to leave so soon." Grant spoke, bowing his head slightly. "If it pleases His Excellence, I will of course be in her place. Rest assured that our discussion is of the utmost importance." He spoke as he always did. Despite not respecting Reia (which was more of a sibling thing than a genuine dislike for his sister--he and Lorenzo simply couldn't take Reia seriously as an Empress) he was not one to show disrespect to those in a higher authority, so to speak.

-------

There it was again, her heart beating faster and faster. Maybe she was just over-thinking things. She loved how he awkwardly explained himself, glad that she made him speak first. But as quickly as it came and went, it looked like it was her turn. Now what? What should she say to him? As Emiri pondered his words, she couldn't help but laugh. Yeah, she laughed. It actually wasn't little either, it was more like an accidental thing. "You realize you're taking your words out of a fairytale, yes?" She teased lightly, looking up at him. Damn, it felt good to be the one teasing rather then being on the receiving end. Still, she didn't want him to think she wasn't taking him seriously. She decided to say what was on her mind, too. "I...I don't doubt you. Not at all. It really does feel like forever ago...I really did think you would hand me over to..." She stopped. What did she want to say? Despite not being nervous, she couldn't get the right words to come out. "It's not that I...You see...I think I just want to stay with you." Aha! That last part made sense, right? "I'd very much like to stay by your side as I...figure it out. Until I get as brave as you do and come right out with it." Yes, that sounded right. But she wanted to say more. But what else?

[AlteredTundra]

Hearing the prince speak, he nodded.

“Oh but of course. Her highness can’t simply drop everything, especially for a private meeting with the enemy.” He mused. He knew that the Empress herself wouldn’t go out of her way to meet Vincent. Should it be a trap, she — along with her siblings — would simply be at a very bad disadvantage. Besides, Vincent didn’t wish to have hostility upon his guest. His reasoning for requesting any of them to come was nothing but a common thread the two empires shared.

“Now, shall we commence to the reason why I requested you or any of the royal family here?” He said as he crossed his legs smiling. “It would seem your niece, Nadeline Roselia, and my brother, Jaakuna Hinoko Darcone were seen together with some brunette, first in Bhujerba and again in Rabanastre.” He said smirking, “That is the sole reason why I have requested one of you here. I see a common thread. I want my brother for crimes against the kingdom and I assume you want your darling nieceback. So, here is my offer.” He said, “Our two empires call a truce, be it permanently or just temporarily, and work together to find these two and return them to their homelands to answer for their crimes.” He said stating his offer and reason for requesting one of the royal siblings to Archades.

---

It’s safe to say that Jaakuna was slightly disappointed and he actually turned red when Emiri made that comment about how what he said was straight out of a fairy tail romance novel or something like that. That caused Jaakuna to chuckle a bit, but just out of embarrassment. “Ha Ha, I guess it did, didn’t it?” He said, as he laughed it off.

Hearing the rest of which she had to say, Jaakuna was curious as who she meant. Was she referring to that same guy that she said that she didn’t wanted to be handed over to. Jaakuna shrugged that off as he was just happy that she at least was on some type of feeling for him. It might not be as much as him, but Jaakuna is not mad at all. He was just worried that she would decline him or just flat out say something like ’I’m not into you that way’. That’s at least been Jaakuna’s experience, but he is glad that she is somewhere near the same town he is.

“That’s all I can ever ask for. You’ll get to that point when you’re ready. All I really wanted is you by my side.” He said as he gave her a kiss on the lips. It was the perfect setting after all.

[Hero]

Emiri was beyond relieved to hear him say that. And maybe a little more pleased that at least the feeling was mutual. It was a foreign thing, she was used to her own opinions and feelings being brushed aside. She actually felt kind of giddy, really, and she couldn't for the life of her stop smiling. She wanted to tell him more, but as she looked up at him, she was met with another one of his kisses. She did like him. A lot. Like, a lot a lot. She didn't want anyone else to have him, she wanted him all to herself. Not Savayna, not Grant would stop her. She didn't want this moment to stop. Her head felt light, and she made sure to pull him closer to her.

-------

Grant knew Lorenzo couldn't care less about Nadeline's location. Technically speaking, Archadia had nothing to gain from Nadeline prancing around with some Sky Pirate--especially one that turned out to be of the enemy nation. Still, with what Vincent had said, he was now certain that not only was Emelia with them, but Vincent did not know of her power, either. Actually, it would work in their favor: they would get this Jaakuna fellow, and Grant would get his love (and Reia's weapon) back. The raven haired man nodded, agreeing with the Emperor. "I don't see why a temporary truce would be out of the question." He stated, beckoning to Vincent. "If it pleases my lord, I will personally oversee the retrieval operation on the Rozarrian side. The princess is young and foolish, you see...she's at that age." He chuckled slightly.