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

[AlteredTundra]

The crossing of the bridge was going pretty okay in Jaakuna’s eyes. No one had fallen yet, so that was a success right? Well, Jaakuna thought that was the case until he heard a splash. He instantly turned around and he saw that Nadeline had fallen into the river. That fucking klutz Jaakuna couldn’t believe that she actually fell. He somehow knew that she would be the one to fall. Jaakuna wanted to laugh at that, but he knew that would be one of the rudest things he could possibly do.

Wesley thought she was hanging on to her. He could have sworn that her grabbing onto his blue cloak was there, but somehow she fell into the river. Wesley, like Jaakuna and Emiri, rushed off the bridge to go help her out of the river. Wesley was probably the first one to get to the edge on land where the next step was into the river. He watched as Nadeline was carried off by the river’s current. Wesley motioned Jaakuna to help him. Jaakuna just looked at him with a weird look, but eventually gave in.

Of course, the three of them would go to where the river would most likely end, but as fate would have it, there seemed to be a somewhat muddy/wet patch of ground that was near a tree. Wesley would go on the tree, hoping not to put too much weight on it. He wasn’t far on it, but he would hope that Nadeline would see his hand “Grab on, Lade Nadeline!” He shouted, hoping she would hear him.

[Hero]

Emiri watched Wesley climb the tree rather nervously. She kept an eye on its roots, lest the tree get uprooted and he fall in, too. Or the branch could break. Or he slipped off. Or he wouldn't be able to pull Nadeline up and end up getting dragged in as well. Now she mildly regretted brushing off Nadeline's concerns, and got as close to the edge of land as possible. Should Wesley fall, she would (hopefully) be able to grab him and (hopefully) drag him to the bank. She watched Nadeline come through, taking note that her blonde head kept bobbing up and down as the river carried her along. It looked like she did know how to swim. That or the river kept tossing her around like a rag doll. Either way she was somehow managing to keep her head above the water. Hopefully she was still conscious.

Meanwhile Nadeline struggled, cursing her luck as she tried to keep her head above the water. Sometimes she could touch the rivers floor, other times she found herself sinking and unable to get back up. She could swear there were monsters just swimming past her like it was nothing, and once again cursed the water and sky for raining. She thought she spotted the trio chasing after her, but as she was dragged down into the water again, she wasn't quite sure. This way and that she was tossed and turned, and if she wasn't already swallowing enough water to provide a pond, she was certain she would have probably thrown up. As her head broke the water's surface once more, she saw Wesley reaching out for her. She reached out for his hand, clasping it before her hand slipped off his. She panicked, and with her other arm managed to get a better grip, clasping his hand with both of hers.

"Whatever happens, don't let go!" She heard Emiri yell out to her.

"Oh no, I was quite enjoying drowning and practically dying!" She yelled back rather sarcastically.

It was at this point Emiri turned to Jaakuna, trying very hard not to laugh, but ended up losing it. "The irony is too much, let's make sure Wesley doesn't fall in, too." She said between laughs.

[AlteredTundra]

Slowly pulling her in, Wesley was trying his best to not fall into the river. He would have to use all that he had to pull her in slowly. Within the minute to pass, he would have her on the tree, slightly of course, At this point, the two of them jumped back on Wesley’s lead and as they landed on the riverbank, with Nadeline landing on Wesley as he was on his back.

As Jaakuna watched Nadeline and Wesley come onto land, he heard what Emiri was saying to him about how they could fall. He nearly lost it there, but he had control himself, but he did at least let out a few chuckles As he did, Jaakuna saw that the tree had come off its hinges, which caused it to flow into the river and to god-knows where. When Jaakuna was going to check on Nadeline and Wesley, he saw them in a very compromising position, then he turned to Emiri, who was right next to him. “Does she always move this fast?” And there they were again, gossiping about the two lovebirds. Jaakuna didn’t have to whisper as the sounds of the rain somewhat covered up his voice to those who weren’t RIGHT next to him.

[Hero]

Nadeline felt all the pride had washed away in the river. She was just so glad to be out of the water she ended up staying on top of Wesley, just trying to catch her breath. After a moment, however, she finally noticed their position, and she sat up slowly. "So much for dinner." She noted, though she did get up and let out a whine of complaint. Great, at least before she wasn't completely wet, now she was soaked to the bone. Her clothes and hair stuck to her skin, and she quickly wrapped her cloak about her, turning some shade of fuchsia; her shirt had been white. "Please tell me we are almost of of the rain." She begged Emiri.

The brunette had bitten her lip to avoid laughing at Nadeline's state. "It is very un-princess like, but perhaps she enjoys it?" Emiri offered to Jaakuna. "She is rather talented at these situations." Once she heard Nadeline's question, however, Emiri looked around and held her hand out. "The rain seems to be letting up slightly. Ozmone Plain shouldn't be too far now--so long as we don't go getting swept into rivers, the rest of the trek should be smooth sailings." She told her, though afterwards she turned to Jaakuna. "Of course, I suppose by that time the two will be ready to lay in bed together." She told him quietly, constricting her giggles.

[AlteredTundra]

When Wesley had pulled in Nadeline, the two of them were in a very compromising position, not to mention the wetness from the mud, but Wesley didn’t care much about that. However, he turned a little red and slightly chuckled at the remark that Nadeline had made. Surely dinner wasn’t off the table yet, but perhaps it would seem like that considering the way they lay at the current moment. As Nadeline had gotten up as did Wesley, He would just have to ignore the wetness of his clothes,

Meanwhile, Jaakuna and Emiri were just talking it up. He was actually enjoying their talk about how Wesley and Nadeline seemed to be getting closer and closer, literally. He heard her talking about how she’s very good at these type of things, and Jaakuna had to nod in agreement. She sure did know her way around manipulating men, but Jaakuna just couldn’t believe that Wesley fell for some of her basic tricks. Nonetheless, when Emiri would respond to Nadeline about her wanting to know if they would get out of the rain soon, Jaakuna let out a slight sigh of relief. He didn’t like the rain and he wanted to get out of it as soon as he could.

“Finally! I’m ready to get out of here.” He said.

Emiri would turn to Jaakuna once more making a little comment about how eventually the two of them would lay in bed together. Jaakuna laughed, well chuckled is more like it. Jaakuna would then lead the charge to Ozmone Plains, which would be successful until they reached the entrance to the Ozmone Plain. There seems to be about four Zaghnal beasts blocking it.

“Um, guys, it seems we have company.” Jaakuna said as he saw the four beasts with their fists up. They were ready to fight and they looked like they wouldn’t let the group pass by. “So yeah, get them, I guess.” Jaakuna said with Blood Sword and Demonsbane sheathed.

Wesley looked and he smiled. “It seems lady luck has abandoned us today.” He said getting his Platinum Sword out and followed Jaakuna’s lead. He would also ready himself for battle.

[Hero]

Emiri peered at the Zaghnals, withdrawing her own sword. It seemed they were just on the border of both plains. They seemed to be enjoying the rain somewhat, though said enjoyment was pushed aside as they seemed to challenge the group to battle. The rain would not help her accuracy; she made sure to grip her sword tightly, lest it slip out of her hands. Nadeline mimicked the group as she too brought out her rapier, though she wasn't as inclined to fight in the rain as the rest. Still, they had little choice: the beasts made no sign of moving, and if that was heir ticket out of this god forsaken rain, then so be it!

"Your enthusiasm shows no bounds." Emiri commented to Jaakuna.

"Ladies first, then." Nadeline smiled, whipping her sword to the side.

The two went in for the first attack, and both groups broke off. They seemed much larger as they got closer, though that didn't intimidate either of the girls. Emiri whipped her cloak back, freeing her body for movement, and swung a horizontal slash at one Zaghnal. The werewolf-type monster growled at her, though Nadeline attacked it, too. Its attention was torn between them as each let out their attack, going about it one at a time, and before long it was covered in several wounds and scratches. It let out a mighty roar, swinging its claws at Emiri, who easily sidestepped and countered: the monster's head rolled off its body after her strike.

[AlteredTundra]

As they all readied their respective weapons, Jaakuna went forth, Wesley behind him. It would seem the two would also be going in together as Emiri and Nadeline have. While Nadeline and Emiri had taken down one of the beasts in front of them, Jaakuna would use his speed and his fire magick manipulation to aid his swords overall cutting power as he would slash and slash at one of the werewolf-like beasts. The attacks from Jaakuna, while they hit, they didn’t seem to do much damage. The Zeghnal went at Jaakuna with a claw strike, but Wesley came in, and blocked it with his shield

As Jaakuna saw Wesley fend off that strike from the Zeghnal, he rushed in, both swords pointed outward and engulfed in white and red flame. He would slice in an (x) formation that would send that shape of fire towards the Zeghnal that had previously tried to attack him. As the flames would overtake the beast’s torso, it would cry out in pain and agony as it would breathe its last breath due to the severity of the burns it suffered at the hands of Jaakuna’s mighty power.

“Well that could have gone better, wouldn’t you say princey?” Jaakuna said as he looked towards Wesley with a very lighthearted, almost joking grin on his face. When he did this, however, there was one of the two remaining beasts coming at him.

“Jaakuna look out!” Wesley shouted

Jaakuna didn’t see it, nor did he even see Wesley come up from three feet behind him and impale the best right in the heart, blue and red ooze splattering everywhere. Jaakuna was so surprised. He didn’t think Wesley had that much speed in him. As the beast fell to the ground, Wesley whipped his sword to get all the blood off of it. He then turned to the last beast as there was just one left and it should be fairly easy. Jaakuna regained his composure and turned to the beast as well.

Surrounded by the four of them, the last remaining Zeghnal would activate its Berserk ability as it would just charge at everyone who was nearby. It would find itself going after Emiri specifically.

[Hero]

Emiri held her sword at the ready, watching the Zaghnal's charge. Holding out her free hand, she intended to cast a Haste spell. Once again, however, it failed. She blinked in surprise, though a Protect spell erupted over her, courtesy of Nadeline, and it blocked its attack. Without any time to think, however, Emiri spun around, gathering momentum, and as she neared the monster once more she sent her blade into it. It howled as she dragged her sword through it, and with a might pull she slashed through it, and it landed in two halves. Emiri wiped her hair off her forehead, looking at her sword. That strike should have been a clean cut. She must have used up too much energy, otherwise her Haste would have activated and her strike would have been executed perfectly. She sheathed her sword, turning to the group.

"Well, I think with this group the next Esper should be a breeze." She stated, placing both hands on her hips.

Nadeline raised an eyebrow at her, though she sheathed her weapon as well. Once again, she acted in a way that would have gotten her killed: she was lucky that she had cast that Protect spell beforehand. "Your confidence is going to get you killed." Nadeline stated, crossing her arms. "Honestly, what was that back there?"

I don't know. Emiri wanted to say, but they were already halfway there. She feigned a smile, winking at Nadeline. "As long as we fight together, I will be fine. Let's get going!" She turned on her heel and began walking to Ozmone Plain.

[AlteredTundra]

Jaakuna was ready to defend Emiri given that he would have the chance, but it would seem like that Nadeline had her back, which was good. However, she did something incredibly foolish. She would try to use some magick spell, but it would fail. Luckily, Nadeline was there to see to it that the attack from the beast would be blocked and Emiri would have no problem cleanly slicing the beast through the middle, and even cutting it in half. Jaakuna was pretty impressed with her. Granted, he did something pretty impressive as well, but shit! The one he killed was only by burns. The rest of the group was able to kill them without the use of magic, not for the lack of trying, of course, but still.

All four beasts were killed and now the group was free to move out of the rain and into the cloudy weather of the Ozmone Plain. Though, Jaakuna heard what Emiri and Nadeline were talking about, specifically about what Emiri did. It’s true that it was foolish and that she could have gotten killed, but Jaakuna wouldn’t let that happen. Still, he didn’t say anything there. He just walked with everyone into the entrance of the Plains, and he saw a pretty sight. It definitely was more refreshing than seeing the rainy plains of Giza. As they stepped in, Jaakuna put away his swords and then proceeded to stretch. He took the hood part of his cloak off. After all, he didn’t need it on, at least not yet.

Meanwhile, Wesley also saw what Emiri did and as the same with Jaakuna, he said nothing for he didn’t think it was his place. Should Emiri endanger this journey, Wesley would see to it that safety is priority. He also removed his hood and put his sword back in its sheath as he went with the group.

Jaakuna looked around and he really didn’t know where the caverns were. So, he turned to Nadeline. “Okay Naddie, where are the caverns? You should know right?”

[Hero]

Nadeline didn't appreciate being brushed off, but had little choice but to drop it. She made a mental note to properly discuss the subject when she could catch Emiri alone. As Jaakuna asked for the location of the caverns, she looked around. "It should be near...although I admit geography is not my forte." She confessed, putting away her cloak and straining her hair. "“A great cavern complex stretching along the length of the inland sea between Ordalia and Kerwon. Its passages twist and turn, winding their way from the Jagd Yensa to Dalmasca, and even Bancour. Labyrinthine and dark, the caverns provide an excellent place for criminals and bandits to hide from the authorities. The reaches near the Great Yensan Sandsea are known for their frequent deadly subterranean sand drifts, and the fierce wyrms that make their home there. Nearer to the Bancour, the smell of brine grows stronger, and many of the cavern mouths open out onto cliffs overlooking the sea...except I haven't a clue where Ozmone's entrance is."

Emiri wandered ahead, nearly walking right off a cliff. Upon closer inspection, however, she noticed that it wasn't an ordinary cliff. The path dipped somewhat, leading down into some sort of cave. She whistled to the group, beckoning them to come on over."Here's our entrance. Just remember to be careful, and watch out for quicksand." She said, hopping down and walking to the cavern.

[AlteredTundra]

Coming to a stop cause Jaakuna would ask Nadeline where to go, the explanation that she gave was long, and less-than helpful. Jaakuna sighed at the helplessness of her explanation, so he would just walk with the rest of the group until, perhaps, they stumbled upon it.

Wesley thought to himself that he had never came this way through the Giza Plains. He’s flew over it countless times, but he never actually went to the Ozmone Plain on foot. He truly loved the scenery. He just admired it as the group would walk more into the plains, carefully evading any monsters that would come their way. Of course they would fight those that were unavoidable, but still that was a very minimal list. Wesley can handle those kinds. It were the monsters like the one that they faced before that would be the tricky part.

As they kept going on, Emiri seemed to had almost fell off a cliff. Jaakuna was about to save her, but she caught herself before she fell. However, when she would look at it closely, she would seem to yell out to the group that the entrance was the cliff she almost fell off at. The group made a note and they proceeded to go into through the entrance, and into the Zetinan Caverns.

Going into the Caverns, Jaakuna definitely didn’t like it nor did Wesley. Jaakuna didn’t like the dust and all the fucking bats in the place. Wesley, on the other hand, just didn’t like being in a place that he didn’t know the full layout of. He liked to know at least where he was going in any place. Perhaps that’s just him though.

“Hmm, a very bizarre place indeed.” Wesley said making a note of how weird the Caverns were. “It’s truly a marvel though. To think that this entire cavern system extends beneath the Sandsea. Truly wonderful.”

As Wesley was going on about how wonderful the caverns were, he was just thinking of how close they were to finding the Esper or whatever the fuck they were called. ‘So, anyone know where exactly this Esper-thing is supposed to be?” Jaakuna asked slightly annoyed at the caverns and lack of sunshine.

[Hero]

Emiri shook her head at her companions. It looked like she was the only one enjoying herself; maybe the entire thing was just an adventure to her. She quite enjoyed exploring new places. Walking on the sand reminded her of traveling through the desert. The caverns opened to many paths ahead of them. Which to take? Letting her hunter side take over, Emiri simply began walking to the closest. It looked like the caverns ran much deeper then they imagined. The way Emiri had taken revealed almost the entirety of the many paths. The walkways were thin, the threat of falling into a seemingly endless abyss was high.

Nadeline looked around, wrinkling her nose somewhat. "The Esper could be anywhere in any of these paths. Who knows how long it will take to find it?" She asked, warily looking below. The brunette grinned, putting a finger to her lips as she signified silence. Nadeline listened hard, but she really didn't hear anything. Monsters, probably, and the wind. Actually, the wind was what took up most of the noise. She raised an eyebrow at Emiri, who only winked as she began to walk. Nadeline looked at Wesley. "I fail to understand what she is trying to say."

"Hush and follow me." Emiri replied.

She led them down several paths, and Nadeline noted the sound of the wind getting louder. Eventually, it almost sounded as if they were reaching the source of the wind. Emiri looked back as she withdrew her bow, pointing ahead. "When you're tracking down a hunt, they always stick out amongst the usual wildlife."

Nadeline gasped as she saw what Emiri was pointing to: a tornado. That certainly did stick out! As she peered closer, she swore she saw something in its center. Before she could ask, however, lightning erupted from within the tornado, and it dissipated into simpler winds.With this, the Esper Aldrammelech was revealed: a great being that flew before them, somewhat resembling an ancient horse-like creature. It sent out several waves of lightning, displaying its power, and Nadeline was briefly reminded of Ixion for a moment.

"Try not to fall." Emiri chided, readying an arrow.

[AlteredTundra]

“Sir do we have to come here?” Said one of the Archadian Soldiers.

“Yes. Our Emperor wants me to search for the legendary Esper of Lightning and Thunder. Rumor has it that this mystical being is somewhere within these caverns.” Said Judge Magister Isaiah Ixion Darcone.

In light of the events that occurred yesterday, Emperor Vincent told Isaiah to go to the Zetinan Caverns in search of the legendary Thunder and Lightning Esper, Adrammelech, The Wroth. Vincent told Isaiah about the legend and told him to go to the Caverns.

“But sir, these caverns are a certain death if any of us shall fall..” One of the other soldiers said.

Ixion huffed as he walked, metal clacking on the rock as it shook slightly. “Then don’t fall.” He said In a sarcastic-ish manner.

As Ixion and the three soldiers would go through the caverns, the wind that has always been present in the caverns started to get louder. Ixion would follow the sound of the wind until he would get to the point that the wind started to hurt his ears a bit and then he saw a sort of tornado. He definitely arrived at the place of the Caverns that the Esper was, but then he heard people come by, so he hid behind a wall(sort of) so he could hear and lsiten.

---

The group descended deeper into the caverns only to follow the sound of wind. It would seem the closer that they went to the origin of these winds, it would be that the sound of it got progressively louder. Jaakuna and Wesley both thought the same thing about how it would probably lead to the esper, and they were just as equally excited about this, so much so that Jaakuna was right behind Emiri as she led the charge to it.

When they arrived to the sound, Jaakuna and Wesley intently looked at the tornado as it suddenly erupted with purple and white lightning. It truly was amazing and what came out of it was just as equally amazing. The form it took was like a flying goat-thing. It had purple, red, black, grey, and all those kinds of shades all around it. Jaakuna eyes lit up with wonder and as did Wesley’s. He’s read about these Espers, but he never saw one in person. It truly was a fascinating wonder to behold. However, as they would watch it, the Esper would launch lightning attacks at them.

“Crap!” Jaakuna said as he saw the lightning come towards the group and he withdrew Demonsbane.

“Stand ready gang!” Wesley said as he withdrew his Platinum Sword.

Both Jaakuna and Wesley would just have to try their best not to get hit. Magic would be their best bet to go after this thing, but they would also have to try to do it without falling to their deaths.

Both thinking the same thing, Wesley and Jaakuna both used the same spell. “Firaga!” They said as bursts of fire came from their swords and combined into one mega burst of fire magick would go forth to the flying Esper.

Meanwhile, nearby behind a rocky wall, Ixion heard and he couldn’t believe it. Not only did Adrammelech present himself to those twats, but they were already attacking it. “You guys, go after those guys. I’m going to find a different route and hopefully use the element of surprise.” Ixion said to the three soldiers and they went forth.

Ixion would go leave his men to handle his cousin and company while he would go and find a secret route to surprise everyone. He would go through several routes, but he would stumble upon one pathway that had narrow ridges, but he would go down it and it would lead to a back way that he had a behind shot of things where the Esper and Jaakuna(and company) were at.

The Soldiers would go in charging. “HALT!” They all said in unison as they lifted their swords, about to attack Emiri and Nadeline from behind.

[Hero]

Emiri fired off a single arrow, readying another one before hearing a 'halt'. That was odd, it sounded a lot like an order. Nadeline turned around and her rapier met another blade. These were Archadian soldiers. Her eyes widened as she shoved the soldier back. As Emiri looked back, she narrowly avoided meeting with a sword herself. Putting away her bow, she withdrew her blade, parrying an attack and blocking another. There were three of them apparently, but she didn't doubt more would be around.

"Now, now, three against two isn't fair." Nadeline chided, holding her hand out. "Sleepga!" A Green Glyph appeared beneath the soldiers, and several violet bubbles appeared around him. Two of them managed to get out of the way, leaving one behind. Before he could react, he fell onto the floor, asleep. As the second soldier came after Nadeline as she prepared another spell, Emiri intercepted his attack, pushing him back. "Blind!" She yelled out, a dark cloud hovering over his eyes. He swung wildly, and greatly overestimated his strength, slipping off the ledge and falling. With only one soldier left, both Emiri and Nadeline drew their weapons at him. He charged, and the two looked at one another. As he came closer, the two struck at the same time, sending him flying. He hit a stalagmite and sunk to the ground, clearly knocked out.

[AlteredTundra]

Really quickly, the three soldiers were defeated. One was put to be put to sleep, one would fall to his death, and the other would get knocked the fuck out by being sent flying to one of the stalagmites in the cave,. Meanwhile, Jaakuna and Wesley were fighting the Esper.

The combined spell of firaga would take the potential power of firaja as it neared Adrammelech. The flying goat-looking Esper would get hit in the chest, but not after surrounding its own body with a Thundara defense, but the exlposion would make the beast be sent backwards. To this, it would respond with a Thundaga spell to everyone within the area. It would first be aimed towards Jaakuna who dodged it for the most part, but it caught his shin just barely. The sensation of that was not fun to feel as Jaakuna almost fell off the ledge that everyone was on.

When Wesley would see Jaakuna almost fall off, he would help the man up and he would deflect the Thundaga with his shield. Thankfully it was a very sturdy shield. Wesley would then go forward with Jaakuna following him to the part of the area that they were in that had no ledges and had a sandy-like path. Wesley would go there with Jaakuna and the two of them would work in such a way that Jaakuna would elevate Wesley into the air as he would jump and Wesley would be above the esper. He would raise his sword and an icy-blue glyph would course through his entire sword and as he shouted “Blizzaga!” The entire sword would slash downward only to release a way of breeze winds that would hit the esper.

As it went forth, the Esper almost evaded it all, but his right ribcage would get the full force of the hit. It would cry out in pain and agony as it would be grounded against one of the wall. It was down but not out. Wesley had landed on the ground on one knee. He was doing good physically.

Meanwhile, Ixion was waiting for the right time. He would just wait a little longer.

[Hero]

Emiri and Nadeline looked around, seeing if any more soldiers would appear. Emiri noted that Nadeline's spells were very effective, watching as the soldier snoozed like there was no tomorrow. But why would Archadian soldiers be here? Did they know the group was here, too? Or were they after the Esper? After a moment of reprieve, Nadeline watched the duo attack the Esper. It seemed they were doing relatively well, with the Esper being close to defeat. She then looked at Emiri, motioning to the boys. "Should we alert them about the soldiers?" She asked her, still wielding her weapon.

Emiri shook her head, still looking around as she switched back to her bow and sliding her dagger into her boot. "No, we should remain alert, I don't think they were the only ones around." She replied, looking around. "Once they realize this small squad hasn't returned, I am sure more will appear."

[AlteredTundra]

While Jaakuna and Wesley pretty much defeated the Esper, nearby Ixion was creeping around waiting for the perfect moment. Addrammelch would soon find the strength to get up, but due to being hurt so badly, he would be grounded as his flying powers would be disabled for the current moment.

“Hahaha! We got him, Wesley! Let’s do it!” Jaakuna was riveting in how close they were to defeating the Esper.

Wesley couldn’t help but chuckle a bit. “Indeed my friend. Let us, shall we!” Wesley said as motioned Jaakuna.

Right about when they were going to do as such, Adrammelech wasn’t finished yet. He would engage the two warriors in ground combat as he would rush to the two of them in lightning-fast speeds with arms and legs punching and kicking all over. Wesley and Jaakuna met the Esper blow-for blow. However, Adrammelech would start to get the upper hand as they would be pushed back to the ledge, but Wesley dodged roll to the right, preventing him from going near the edge.

And then it happened.

Ixion made his move. In the blink of an eye, his lightning flash-like speed had propelled him in front of Jaakuna as he proceeded to front kick Jaakuna off the ledge, and shouting. “THIS! IS! MY ESPER!” As that happened, Wesley rushed to Jaakuna, who was holding on by a ledge(literally). By the time this had hapoened, he had put away Demonsbane, but that didn’t help any. He still was on the ledge with his hands on it keeping him from falling to his death. Wesley had gone to help Jaakuna, by trying to pull him up or at least not letting him fall. Meanwhile, Ixion was in front of Adrammelech. Ixion would rush in lightning-fast speeds to the Esper and with an impaing motion with his sword, he had killed Adrammelech. The esper disapated to lightning charges and Ixion became surrounded in said charges, appearing in a white void.

‘You are crafty, sneaky, and wait for the right moment to strike. I offer you my services as I am Adrammelech, The Wroth.” The Esper spoke.

“I am honored, Milord.” He said as the services of Adrammelech was granted to Ixion.

Back in the real world, Ixion had been branded with the glyph of Adrammelech. “Sorry, but that esper is mine now. “ Ixion said laughing and he would depart within seconds. “Until next time~”

[Hero]

As the Esper was brought to the ground, the two kept looking around. Still, despite Emiri's idea didn't seem to be happening. No one came. Nadeline couldn't help but lower her guard, turning back to the battle. As Emiri was about to scold her, the two were surprised by Ixion's sudden arrival. He kicked Jaakuna over the edge, and in one fell swoop, impaled Adrammelech. The girls immediately ran forward. They were both in disbelief: how did Ixion know to come here? What was worse, he basically stole the Esper after all their efforts. Emiri quickly joined Wesley, heaving Jaakuna back up as Nadeline watched Ixion escape. She had half a mind to go after him, but as she remembered their last battle, she hesitated somewhat. There was nothing left to do, and no point in fighting.

"Are you alright?!" Emiri asked worriedly, afraid Ixion had attacked the two boys. Nadeline joined them shortly, casting a Cura to heal any minor wounds.

[AlteredTundra]

“HELP ME UP GUYS! SERIOUSLY, I’M HANGING ON THE EDGE OF GLORRRRRRRYYYYY!” Wow, in this predicament, Jaakuna was actually signing, and a pop song no less. Seriously, he was actually singing even though his life hangs in the balance.

As the he gets pulled up, Jaakuna breathes heavily, almost making this so dramatic, even though it shouldn’t be. Wesley just shook his head. Hell, he was while he was getting pulled up. Jaakuna didn’t make it easy for people to laugh at him and Wesley found some humor in the blonde man.

Jaakuna was up and as a cura spell went over him and anyone else who had some injuries, Jaakuna looked around and didn’t see his cousin anywhere. Wesley also looked around and he couldn’t find him anywhere. Jaakuna was livid. First Ixion has the audacity to attack Jaakuna and then he takes the esper that they tried so hard to get. Though, Jaakuna did wonder how his cousin found out about this place.

“Yeah, I’m fine.” Jaakuna said to Emiri

“Dammit! I’ll kill that Ixion--” Jaakuna was interrupted.

“IXION!?” Wesley shouted, “That blonde guy that just took the esper was Judge Magister Ixion!” He shouted again. “WE HAVE TO GO AFTER HIM!” He once again shouted.

Jaakuna looked at him with pity. “Oh, and how do you suggest we do that, genius?” Jaakuna asked getting up.

“I don’t know,..” He said looking down, then back to the others. “But we can’t let him get away.” He said, pleading with the group.

[Hero]

For once, the princess had to disagree with Wesley. As much as she really, really didn't want to, going after Ixion was just not a good idea. "Last time we encountered him, we barely escaped with our lives..." Nadeline reminded them, specifically looking at Jaakuna. He knew that she could not heal him, and she highly doubted Emiri would be able to repeat her trick. It was a foolish move, and she knew Wesley wanted revenge, but they didn't have the strength to face him. And yet, in the back of her mind, she didn't want to face him. The man was ruthless, who was to say he wouldn't kill Jaakuna or Emiri next time? Nearly killing your cousin and taking an innocent person hostage made Ixion very, very dangerous. She had a feeling he wouldn't hesitate to sick his new pet on them, either.

Emiri looked to where Ixion escaped. If he was going after the Espers as well, they were going to encounter him sooner or later. "And wait for him to come after us again? He knows of the Espers, this will not be the first or last time we will cross paths." She replied.

"So you would have us risk our lives? We cannot hope to beat him!"

"Better sooner then later!"

"That is entirely foolish! Need I remind you that Jaakuna nearly DIED last time?!"

"And what makes you think we'll be any more ready next time?"