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

[AlteredTundra]

Wesley wanted to disagree with them. He really did, but he knew they were right; they were all right. Going after Ixion now would be suicide by blade. Though, somewhere in his soul, Wesley didn’t care. He wanted revenge and he wanted Ixion’s head on a silver platter. However, after hearing what Nadeline had to say, he came back to reality. He knew that everything she had said was the absolute truth. Oh gods, he didn’t want to accept that he was weaker than Ixion — vastly weaker.

Jaakuna was starting to see that the prince was slowly coming to planet Ivalice. That was good of him to do that. Even though Jaakuna doesn’t know the man, at least not as well as he knows Nadeline and Emiri, he still sees this man becoming a close friend down the line and to see him go waste his life away just like that over some petty revenge notion, would be truly tragic. Besides, Jaakuna wants to get his hands on Ixion as well, but not yet. As the ladies have said, strength will have to be obtained in order to stand a fair chance against him. As Jaakuna walked over to Wesley, he patted him on the back.

“Listen, I know you want to tear his throat out, but right now the best thing you can do is get stronger, and then you can think about ripping his head off and offering it to your people.” Jaakuna said as he let Wesley think about all of it. He never was good at the comforting thing, but he has gotten better.

As Jaakuna just looks around the patch of sand they seem to find themselves in, Jaakuna overhears Emiri and Nadeline talking about something. He hears them and they mentioned him dying. “Still alive here!” Jakauna said, but he wasn’t being paid attention to.

When they would completely ignore him, Jaakuna was literally in the middle of them. “HEY!” He shouted, ‘Listen, what just happened sucks ass, but that’s no use fighting with each other over it. We’ll get stronger, we’ll meet Ixion in battle, and dammit, we’ll kick his ass. “ Jaakuna turning his gaze to both ladies, first Nadeline, then Emiri, ‘Now, until then, we just hunt ourselves some fucking espers and beat them to the punch, okay? Okay.” He said completely settling their argument without them having a say in it.

Jaakuna walked over to Wesley. “I swear man, we have two of the weirdest ladies. One minute their best friends and the next they're at each other’s throats.” Jaakuna said slightly chuckling out of annoyance.

Wesley looked at him with a confused look. “I’m sorry, we?” He said.

Jaakuna chuckled and leaned into Wesley. “Oh come on man, I see the way you look at Nadeline. You’re more obvious as my tattoos in a white room.” Jaakuna whispered.

Wesley got all red. “Y-y-y-you’re mistaken. I have no such feelings for her.” He got even redder.

Jaakuna shrugged. “Pfft, you liar. It’s written all over your face.” Jaakuna laughed out loud, probably alerting the two ladies.

[Hero]

The two girls glared at one another, their argument ceasing as Jaakuna made his point. For a moment, there was silence.

It didn't last.

"We could probably take him on together." Emiri murmured.

"Truly that concussion of yours is starting to take the blood from your brain." Nadeline responded, crossing her arms.

"Well it's true! What makes you think he won't steal the next Esper like he did just now?"

"We are lucky he decided to leave when he did, lest he goes and pulls another fatal attack on one of us."

"That's...You're missing the point!"

"What point? The one where we foolishly go after that which we cannot defeat? Some of us value our lives!"

"Some of us aren't cowards!"

"Look who's talking!"

The two continued bickering, things starting to get heated. Nadeline couldn't believe how truly reckless Emiri had become. Was she crazy? Did she not hear Jaakuna? Once they were properly ready, then they could maybe fight him. She actually wanted to avoid fighting with that ruthless madman, but it couldn't be helped. Meanwhile Emiri couldn't believe the normally bold Nadeline was backing down from a challenge. Seriously, what was wrong with her? They needed to be realistic, the guy wasn't going to wait around for them, he was going to act, and they needed to take the initiative!

[AlteredTundra]

As Wesley and Jaakuna were sort of laughing it up, the ladies, however, were not. There was some real hostility between the two of them. The two men could hear every exact word and they seemed to have some disagreements about how to handle the situation with Ixion and future Esper hunts. It seemed that Emiri wanted to go for more Espers, but Nadeline thought that was foolish and reckless. Jaakuna and Wesley couldn’t keep their jaws shut for this. It was getting more and more intense by the minute. It got to the point where they would call each other cowards, sort of.

Welsey and Jaakuna then went over to break the fight up. Jaakuna took Emiri aside to hopefully calm her down, and Wesley did the same with Nadeline. Perhaps if the two were to talk to different people about it, then perhaps the issue could be solved. Jaakuna and Emiri were at one end of the area and Wesley and Nadeline were on the other end.

Without even realizing it, Wesley and Jaakuna both said the same thing to their respective lady friends. ‘So, what was all that about?”

[Hero]

"She's an idiot!" Emiri huffed, clearly agitated as clenched her fists. She managed to catch herself, taking in deep breaths as she tried to calm herself down. "I'm just saying she's being stupid. Really stupid. Really, really stupid." She said, though failed to notice her own voice raising its volume as she continued to talk. "She's being the same spoiled brat she's always been. "

Nadeline opened her mouth to speak, only to stay quiet and listen to what her dear friend was saying. She looked over Wesley's shoulder at Emiri, yelling, "I heard that!"

Emiri looked over Jaakuna's shoulder. "Considering it was ABOUT YOU I really don't care!" She shouted back.

At this point Nadeline let out an irritated huff as she pushed past Wesley, raising a fist at Emiri. "Come over and say it to my face! Or better yet go ahead and run away like you always do! You damned cowardly doll!"

At that point, Emiri's expression dropped. For a moment, she actually looked hurt. But as soon as it came it went, and that sadness turned into pure, unadulterated fury. Now she was mad. She shoved Jaakuna aside and leapt at Nadeline, and the two began fighting. Hair pulling, smacking, cursing,and many other unladylike things as the two kept fighting one another.

[AlteredTundra]

Both Jaakuna and Wesley tried to listen, and Jaakuna at least was able to get some words in his head, but Wesley didn’t even get that chance. Before long, the two ladie — no, calling them ladies would be an insult to actual ladies. Actually, they’re acting like children. Yes, little children is the right term to describe the way they’re acting. Seriously, Jaakuna nor Wesley knows what they were arguing about, but it certainly led up to a physical fight.

Right when they started fighting, Wesley and Jaakuna exchanged looks. They didn’t know what to make of this. Wesley was more perplexed than Jaakuna was, though Jaakuna was pretty perplexed. He thought the two of them were friends. At least, that’s what he thought. Maybe this is built up from the years they’ve been away from each other, but still Jaakuna didn’t think they would actually go this far. Wesley was frozen in shock. He thought Nadeline was a princess. This was definitely no way for a princess to act. Or at least, he didn’t think it was. Who knows? Perhaps this is how princesses of Rozarria act. By this point, Jaakuna and Wesley were just standing beside each other watching it all. Wesley looked to Jaakuna. “Should we stop this?” He asked.

Jaakuna looked at Wesley. “I don’t know. I don’t want this to continue, but..” He said.
“But?”
“I can’t stop looking man. This is so HOT!”
Wesley sighed. “But do you think its wise that they do this?”
Jaakuna looked to Wesley, and then back to the girls fighting. “Probably not.” He said.

On the count of three, they went in, pulling the girls apart, but they were still trying to claw their way past the two guys. Jaakuna knew what would shut her up. Jaakuna planted a big one on Emiri’s lips.

While restraining Nadeline, Wesley saw that Jaakuna had put Emiri’s fighting to rest with a simple kiss. Should I? He nervously thought. Wesley wanted to, but was it too soon? He wasn’t sure, but Nadeline seemed to be trying her best to get out of Wesley’s grasp, so he took her, arms wrapped around and kissed her.

And thus the yelling and fighting stopped. All there could be heard was lips smooching. What a weird end to a bad day.

[Hero]

As the two women were pulled off one another (literally), they struggled against the boys, shouting and screaming and flailing.

And then, silence.

Oh my gods he's kissing me.

The blonde haired girl was in complete shock, so to speak. He was kissing her. He made the first move! How dare he?! She wanted to be the one to do it, not the other way around! She was still mad, and then suddenly she wasn't so mad. It worked. She was calm.

Meanwhile, Emiri broke away from Jaakuna, just about to tell him off when she spotted Wesley and Nadeline. She gasped, frantically shaking him. "Lookatthemlookatthemlookatthem--" She frantically whispered, completely surprised. "ItoldyouItoldyouItoldyou--"

[AlteredTundra]

The events in the Zertinan Caverns were eventful to say the least. From fighting a fucking esper to the arrival of Judge Magister Ixion, and then to the pretty much bitchfest between Emiri and Nadeline. They went at it like no one could, but things took a very interesting turn as Jaakuna and Welsey had kissed them both. It was more shocking that Wesley made the first move than he actually doing it.

The entire walk back to Rabanastre was the most awkward one of all time. Sure, they would talk only when they needed to, but it was so quiet just cause of Nadeline and Wesley not really addressing whatever thing was between them. Jaakuna and Emiri, however, couldn’t stop talking about it. They gossiped and gossiped until they all arrived in Rabanastre. Even when they arrived there, Wesley and Nadeline hardly spoke. They all would get to the palace and while Jaakuna and Emiri would venture through the city just cause they wanted to talk freely, Wesley and Nadeline went to the castle. Not only would the time apart do Naddie and Emiri good, but the time alone to talk about what happened would do Wesley and Nadeline some good.

In the city level, Jaakuna and Emiri took it upon themselves to get some late lunch together. They went to the Sandsea. As they were seated to their table, they ordered some food and drinks. Jaakuna couldn’t withhold himself. “I so didn’t expect Wesley to do it? I thought it surely would have been Nadeline.” He said still in disbelief.

Meanwhile, in the castle, specifically in the garden, Nadeline and Wesley sat, sipping tea. The silence was so awkward, well there’s no way to describe it. Wesley was just thinking about what to say. Hell, what could he say. It surely was a shock for him just as much as it was for Nadeline. “So, um,” He stopped. He didn’t know how to address this matter without sounding disrespectful, then he decided. “So much for dinner huh?” He said laughing slightly as he took a sip of his tea.

[Hero]

"I told you." Emiri replied rather smugly, clearly pleased that, as usual, she was right.

For the moment, she wished not to discuss the fight between herself and Nadeline; it was embarrassing enough that they resorted to fistcuffs to solve a situation (she vaguely recalled her father saying words were better then punches...or...something like that) as Nadeline had not just pushed a button of Emiri's, she had rammed it head on with full ill intent, and she wanted to avoid it at all cost. The kiss between Wesley and Nadeline provided a good distraction and seemed to be taking Jaakuna's attention for the most part. It definitely took her attention as well, and even if it was just for a moment, her anger had subsided.

-------

Awkward could not begin to describe what had happened.

The usually bright, talkative, energetic princess was (dare we say) completely silent. She didn't dare to act, speak, or do anything that would make people presume anything. Except it was too late for that. But she didn't do anything--he did. Which was worse. Or was it better? It was unexpected. Truly unexpected. And then he spoke. And she had no idea what to say. She raised the cup to her lips, intending to drink some of her tea, but even the honey jasmine in front of her could not quell her beating, nervous heart. Yes, she was nervous. Very nervous. She had always been the one to take charge, and for once she was not sure what to do or say. It was a first for sure, nothing ever fazed her, but a simple kiss had derailed most of her thoughts.

How utterly frustrating.

Nadeline let out a small, somewhat forced laugh along with Wesley's, though it ended as she finally decided to take a sip of her drink. "Truly." She murmured into her cup, talking more to herself then she was talking to him. She needed to snap out of it. Putting her cup down, she eyed him curiously. "Pray tell, what possessed His Highness to do such a thing?" She asked slowly, slightly suspicious.

[AlteredTundra]

As Emiri and Jaakuna were enjoying each other’s company, their food arrived. Jaakuna just ordered some grilled Cockatice breasts and it would seem Emiri just herself some White Rabbit Hare soup. Both good items on the menu and both would enjoy it to the fullest. Jaakuna started to cut into his, eating bit by bit as he and Emiri just enjoyed the company of each other. Jaakuna took his drink, which was just some Ice water with lemon slices. He took a sip of it and slightly nervous, he spoke. “So, mind telling me why you and Nadeline were at each other’s throats? You saying she’s stupid doesn’t really explain the whole ordeal to me.” Jaakuna asked, knowing that he was probably treading on thin ice bringing that subject up.

---

There they sat, nervous as all hell, and Wesley and Nadeline both didn’t know how to bring the subject up. Wesley only could make a joke as that was the only thing that he thought he could say. What could he say? That he was doing it to calm her nerves and just following what Jaakuna did? No, the prince couldn’t do that, even if it’s half-true. There other truth of the matter was that he wanted to, but he’s a gentleman — he can’t make the first move like that. And yet, as he sips his tea a bit more, he did, and he’s nervous as all hell.

When Nadeline would peg an inquiry about what he did, Wesley turned a little red but also he almost dropped his tea. He knew they would have to address this. “ I know not what possessed me other than the desire to do such a thing since the first moment I saw you.” He said, turning to Nadeline, setting his tea on the table that they were sitting at. “I am a man of respect and honor, Lady Nadeline. I have been my entire life. I’ve always resisted the temptation of spontaneous acts, but when I look at you, I am overcome with this great temptation to have you, to hold you.” He said slightly embarrassed as the redness of his face increased as did the gleam in his eyes. “I do not know what this feeling is, but what I do know is that I’ve been having it since I first saw you at the party.”

[Hero]

Nadeline raised both of her eyebrows at Wesley. She was intrigued by his little confession. She drank her tea once more, placing down the cup and looking at him.

"Lust." She replied rather plainly, though a smirk did play on her lips. "Passion. Something fiery."

She then cleared her throat, and said, "Or at least that is what I would like to think. Who knows, really? The heart works in mysterious ways we do not understand at times." She hummed to herself lightly, and finally broke out into a grin. She placed her chin in her hands, batting her eyelashes at him. "We both may be of royal blood, but you and I work in two different ways. You are subtle, discreet, you rely on soothing words and light play. I, on the other hand, am direct, blunt, and...on the more physical side of things." She admitted rather playfully. "What say you?"

-------

At Jaakuna's question, Emiri nearly crushed the glass cup in her hand. An audible crack is heard, and some of her drink goes trickling down her palm. She sets the glass down rather calmly, waving a waitress over and requesting another glass. Once she leaves, she simply eats, and for a moment, there is silence. Finally, the waitress comes back, apologizing for the broken cup (not knowing Emiri was the one to blame) and replaces it. After another moment of silence, she suspects Jaakuna's patience to be wearing thin; he was bound to ask again, anyway, and there was no avoiding the subject.

She puts down her utensils and takes a swig of her drink. She places it down, folding her hands on top of the table, lest she go and break something else. She looks at Jaakuna rather seriously, her eyes somewhat intense. She breaks the gaze, somewhat annoyed as her temper flares rather quickly, but she does decide she will say something. "...I do not associate well with the word 'doll'. 'Coward', I can understand--gods know how many times I have rather fled then fought." She said briskly, picking up her spoon and mixing the soup slightly. "I...It is...Once upon a time, I was to be married to the son of the Emperor." She explains quietly, not taking her eyes off of her food. "He...I was his, and his alone. I suppose 'doll' was an affectionate nickname of some sorts, though many will say that it matched my lack of personality." At this point she hesitates, her words slurring into something of a mumble, but she does look back up at Jaakuna.

"Do you remember in Bhujerba how you told me that I had a choice? Until recently, much of my life wasn't my choice. It was my mother and father's--no, it was my mother, I suppose. My father is a soldier in the Rozarrian army and is often sent out on the front lines. Despite there being no war, it often fell on him to resolve foreign matters. Still, he managed to save the Emperor or something when I was young, I don't quite recall exactly what happened, but apparently my mother promised...in exchange for a rank in the nobility, I would marry the Emperor's youngest son--Grant Hershel of House Roselia." Emiri spoke slowly in an almost nostalgic tone, looking out the window. "For as long as I can remember, she controlled nearly everything I did. The way I act, speak, breathe--yes, breathe--everything needed to be perfect to be the ideal wife of a future Emperor. She discouraged any free thinking, most anything I said was recited from what she wanted me to say. By the time I had actually met...Grant...I was perfect in her eyes. I did not speak unless spoken to, I acted only in benefit to my future husband, I did not think, I did not choose, I simply was. I was the perfect little doll. His doll."

The mention of Grant got her blood boiling, but she managed to keep herself under control. She then looked at Jaakuna. "I don't appreciate being called a doll. I think on my own now. I'm not the same little girl I used to be." She then sighed. "Maybe the entire fight was stupid. She's right, we don't have the power to face Ixion...I don't have my power...But I might have lost my temper at that last part."

[AlteredTundra]

Wesley just sat there and listened. He listened to her give him an explanation of why he might possibly be feeling this way for Nadeline and that it just might be lust or something deeper than that. Wesley nodded as he agreed. This was foreign territory to him. He was never put in this kind of position, especially with someone he didn’t know how to fend off with his words. Wesley found her…alluring and he couldn’t turn away from her even if he tried to. Of course, as she would note about how the two of them are different, he would try to be discreet about it. Of course, he would find that more difficult than it actually is.

Wesley just smiled. “Lady Nadeline, I must admit; every word you speak is absolutely true.” He chuckled at the thought of that. “In the minimal time you and I have known each other, I have picked up on how you are, and you’re right: we are different, but maybe that’s good.” He said, looking into her eyes, “I wish not to force this. What I did back in the caverns was highly rude of me, and very unlike me, but maybe that’s what happens when someone such as yourself takes my breath away.” He said, again complimenting at her sheer beauty. Wesley just couldn’t help himself. The more he spoke, he found himself being more infatuated with every bit of her.

---

Jaakuna saw how Emiri shattered a glass in her hand as he would ask her about the fight. This led to her to ask the waitress to bring her another drink. The waitress said she was sorry even though Emiri herself was the one who broke the glass. In any case, this would lead to Emiri to start telling Jaakuna about the whole fight in all the detail that it was.

As he listened, Jaakuna couldn’t believe it; well he could, but the contents of the true detail was something that he didn’t want to believe. The entire story about her mother promised her daughter’s hand in marriage way before she even had notions of liking boys, and for what? To get a seat of nobility? Jaakuna didn’t even want to think how the boat that Emiri had found herself in was vastly similar to Jaakuna’s own, but it the other way around. Jaakuna still remembers how his father and Savayna’s own were like to each other. It just brought a sour taste to his mouth just thinking about it. Regardless, as Emiri would say more about it, he was pretty damn sure that this Grant guy was someone he didn’t want to meet cause he would just kick the asshole in the fucking mouth. When Nadeline told him about this fellow, Jaakuna didn’t like him. Emiri telling him about Grant just intensified that hate.

When Jaakuna heard her finish what she had to say, it was taking all that Jaakuna to not yell out in anger, but he tried to withhold that for when he would see this Grant fellow. “I see,” He said almost emotionlessly. He didn’t want to bring attention to him or Emiri, especially in a public place such as the Sandsea. “I won’t say that I’m shocked at this. Nadeline had informed me about this Grant fellow, but don’t blame her. Last thing we need is you two fighting again.” Jaakuna couldn’t help but let out a few chuckles. “She thought I had the right to know, but that’s beside the point. The fact of the matter is that you’re here — with me, with Nadeline and everyone else. You made the choice and now, should we run into him, you’ll have the chance and choice to tell that asshat to go stuff himself.” Jaakuna said, slightly raising his voice, but in an excited way. Then, with a movement of his hands, he took Emiri’s “Listen, whatever happens — we’ll face it together. I promise that I will protect you from Grant, from your mother — anyone — who tries to take you away from me.” He said raising up her hands and kissing them. “Even if it costs me my life, and the gods know that is more than just words.” Jaakuna said jokingly, even thought it was true. He laughed at that.

[Hero]

Emiri wanted to believe Jaakuna. She truly did. But somewhere deep inside her, she wished it would never come to that. If she never saw Grant again it would be a blessing. Maybe she was still afraid of him but for now, she let those thoughts rest. Still, she liked the way Jaakuna thought, and laughed a little with him. She gave Jaakuna a small smile in return. "I'll protect you, too." She replied quietly, praying it would never come to that again, and her smile faded as she let out a groan, scratching her head. "I guess I owe Naddie an apology for getting hot headed. I really am picking up your terrible habits. If only you would pick up some of mine." She grinned.

She opened her mouth to make another comment, but before she could, a familiar face outside caught her attention. She squinted at the man, frowning slightly. Where had she seen him before? Watching him walk by, she racked her brain to try to remember. "That's...General Harris?" She pondered out loud, though let out a slight gasp as she spotted a pair of Viera trailing after him..

------

Nadeline let out a small laugh, clearly amused by Wesley. Hook, line, and sinker. Still, she didn't want to admit that on the scoreboard he was definitely winning, but she'd hopefully get to change that. She did admit to herself, however, that she did fancy Wesley. Just a little. Maybe more then a little. "You don't need to force that which will happen naturally." She chided, taking another sip of tea. "What was that phrase...'what happens will happen'? I will have to look that up." She giggled slightly, though she did let out a small sigh. "Speaking of happening, I must apologize for my...rather un-princess-like behavior earlier. I assure you I am no barbarian. Emi and I just happen to not see eye to eye at times. That's all."

------

"I fail to understand why my lord himself has bothered to come all the way out here when we can easily handle such a menial task."

The two Viera and General traveled through the streets of Rabanastre. They had brought no soldiers, their precence essentially masked except for those who knew their faces.

"You forget the Empress' words so easily, Vlyn?" Aloa asked him warily. "There is a fabled power underneath Rabanastre. We are to acquire it. What part did you not understand?"

"She also wants us to fetch that Sky Pirate and Princess Nadeline." Vlyn replied. "Though where the girl who manipulates time fits into this, I don't know. I'm getting confused."

To both of their surprises, the General chuckled, looking back at them. "The Empress demands much of us, no?" He joked.

Aloa smiled, nodding. "Yes, my lord, she does."

Vlyn crossed his arms, not as amused as Aloa was. "Then someone PLEASE tell me what needs to be done. Seriously."

"I think I can handle the few rats in the Garamsythe Waterway. You can leave that much to me." Harris said as they stopped before the entrance to Lowtown. "You two can hunt down the wanted ones. I hear Vlyn has a knack for finding Sky Pirates. Whether we accomplish one or more tasks is not important. What matters is that we divide and conquer. The princess is not to be harmed; as for the other two they're to be taken in. The Sky Pirate is a criminal, the girl is to be brought to Reia."

Vlyn and Aloa looked at one another. They weren't exactly too sure about the temporary alliance with Archadia, nor did they trust its Emperor. They weren't exactly fans of Grant and Savayna either, but they had little choice in the matter. They were spared both Grant and Savayna's presence for the moment, and only had their General. "Archadia does not know of the girl's power." Aloa reminded them. "To them, Princess Nadeline is worth more."

"And so we will leave it that way." Harris warned her. "Which is why regardless of what happens I want you two specifically looking for the girl. Should Archades find the Sky Pirate and the Princess, they will leave her, and that will be your chance to strike." He opened the door, looking back. "I know you two can do it. Contact me once you have gotten them; our reports say they were last spotted here, in Rabanastre."

The Viera nodded, watching the General descend. Vlyn let out a low groan, scratching his head. "Did you HAVE to tell him I was the one that found the Sky Pirate? Now he thinks I'm a bloodhound."

Aloa shook her head. "Reia thinks of us as his dogs. We may as well play the image, no?"

"Wouldn't that make you a bitch?" He received a swift kick for his troubles. "Ow!"

[AlteredTundra]

As Wesley listened to what she had to say, he understands why she was acting in such a manner. Sometimes people have arguments, even if they are people who are the best of friends. Wesley certainly doesn’t blame her one bit. “No need to apologize, Nadeline. Sometimes people argue, it’s one of the natural things of life. It’s best not to fret about such manners.” He said taking his tea and sipping the rest of it. “On that other manner, yes I guess we will just have to see what will happen.” He said setting the cup down on the tale.

Standing up, Wesley put his hand out. “Would you care to accompany me to the dining hall? I believe lunch is being served still. Or we could stay here, if that befits you more.” He said.

---

Emiri joined Jaakuna in laughing and then she shot him a smile as she would make a note to apologize to Nadeline. Jaakuna was glad. Even though they were both at fault in this situation, Jaakuna was glad that at least one of them was going to make the effort to settle things in a peaceful manner. “I’m glad.” He said as he would hear Emiri make a comment about how she is picking up his bad habits(he didn’t think so) and that he wasn’t picking up any of hers. “Who’s to say that I haven’t? Last time I checked, I’m really stubborn and so are you, sooo…” Jaakuna laughed.

When they would just enjoy the last moments of their lunch, Emiri had a change of attitude. She would look out the window and she say something about a General Harris. Jaakuna knew nothing of that name, but he too looked out the window and he saw Vlyn and Aloa. “Shit, they found us.” Jaakuna said lowing his head. “Let’s sneak the fuck out of here. “ Jaakuna said as he left enough Gil on the table to pay for their meal.

They would sneak out and the waitress didn’t even have enough time to wave bye as they were already gone. Jaakuna and Emiri would do their best to not run into them. So, by going through the secret pathways, Jakauna would stop as he thought they were out of sight of the two Viera. “So, who’s General Harris? A former-friend of yours?”

[Hero]

Emiri racked her head as she tried to think of why General Harris would make a personal visit to Dalmasca. Last she heard, he was in Rozarria preparing for the upcoming war. As the pair snuck out, she tried to see where they went, but it looked like they were gone. They were in the clear, for now anyway.

"No...General Harris is the military leader of Rozarria, a talented swordsman and strategist. I know my father has served under him, so we have met long ago, but I would not say he is an enemy, either." She said slowly, though it hit her. "The two Viera--what, Aloa and Vlyn or whatever?--they are his direct subordinates. Actually, if I remember correctly. they're Nadeline's friends." She paused, looking at Jaakuna. "Maybe they're looking for Nadeline?" She suggested, giving Jaakuna a shrug. "Maybe we should get back to Wesley and Nadeline."

-------

"Of course I must fret! Why, if my etiquette tutor ever caught wind of such an act, I would never hear the end of it!" Nadeline exclaimed somewhat dramatically. "That and...perhaps I may have egged her on a bit." She felt a pang of regret. Truly, she let her anger get the best of her, and it was embarrassing enough Wesley and Jaakuna had bore witness to it. Oh, her poor mother would be so disappointed with her, and her mother had such a frail constitution. She let out a sigh, messing with her hair a bit as she listened to his offer. "Actually, if the enemy is aware of the Espers, I think it best to continue translating the text in the tome." She replied, withdrawing said book and placing it on her lap. "The Espers may have been imprisoned by the guards anywhere, from Rozarria to Archades to--Rabanastre?" She squinted at the text, surprised.

[AlteredTundra]

Jaakuna listened intently as they were still in the lower level streets of Rabanastre. When she would tell him about this General Harris guy, Jaakuna couldn’t believe it. First, how did Rozarria catch wind of where they were? They haven’t encountered anyone from there since the two Viera. That was another thing that Jaakuna was surprised at finding out. To think that the two Viera were not only with Rozarria, but that they were two direct subordinates of Rozarria’s top General. Truly this was the worst luck that they could encounter.

“Okay, so no doubt they’re here in Rabanastre cause they’re mad about what happened in Bhujerba, but why is that Harris guy here?” Jaakuna said, thinking about those two and why this Harris guy was in Rabanastre with them. That’s when Emiri shrugged at the matter and suggest that the two of them go to the Palace and find Nadeline and Wesley. Jaakuna nodded and they would go the back way to the Palace up until the entrance they would just go through it since they have no need to sneak into it.

---

Declining Wesley’s offer, Nadeline suggested that the two of them go over the contents of the Esper and hope to translate it. Wesley agreed at he sat back down next to Nadeline. She would bring out her tomb and turn to the information about the Espers and to their surprise, it seemed that there is an Esper in Rabanastre somewhere. Wesley did remember reading something about it. Wesley looked closely at the text and he was sure of it

“It was just as I thought.” He said, “This one in Rabanastre, it’s located in--” He was interrupted

Emiri and Jaakuna had arrived at the palace and were in the Garden.

“Oh, Jaakuna and Emiri! I assume you had a good lunch?” He said leisurely.

Jaakuna had a worried look on his face and Wesley noticed.

“Something troubling you my friend?” He asked, concerned.

Jaakuna looked to Emiri. “You want me to tell them or would you like the honor?” Jaakuna said.

[Hero]

Emiri blinked at Jaakuna, slightly confused, though she regained her footing and told the duo, "General Harris is here in Rabanastre, along with your Viera friends."

Nadeline raised an eyebrow at Emiri. That was,,,surprising, to say the least. Her initial thought was that Vlyn and Aloa were there to reclaim Emiri, but the general himself was around? "Perhaps Rozarria is reaching to Dalmasca to offer military aid? I can't fathom any other reason for their visit...though it's troubling if Harris himself is here, he always sends Vlyn and Aloa to do his bidding...this is a first, I admit." She looked like she was going to think about it further, but she decided to report their findings as well. She then pointed to the book. "[b][color=fdc68a]The next Esper is here in Rabanastre. Apparently...it's somewhere in the Garamsythe Waterway.[/b][/color]" She groaned slightly, already dreading the trip.

"Then we should get it and get out of here." Emiri said, looking at Jaakuna.

[AlteredTundra]

It would seem that Emiri took Jaakuna on the offer to tell them what they just found out and the reactions was more or less what Jaakuna expected. The look on everyone’s face pretty much settled what everyone was going to do. Jaakuna wasn’t going to debate it, but he at least wanted to get a few words in.

“Okay, so back to the sewers? Lovely!” Jaakuna said, complaining about the situation.

Wesley chuckled. “Oh keep your spirits up Jaakuna! The prize will be well-worth it, wouldn’t you say?” Wesley said awfully optimistic.

“And what has you chipper about this, [I[your highness[/I]” Jaakuna asked.

Wesley smiled. “It’s just a lovely afternoon is all.” Wesley said.

Wesley wasn’t being truthful, at least not to the group. The afternoon has been lovely, but his reasoning was the talk he and Nadeline had. For some reason that very conversation that they had just lifted his sprits up. Perhaps it was also the slight breeze in the air. Who knows what has him in such a good mood, truly.

[Hero]

"The gods test us." Nadeline grumbled, crossing her arms and scowling.

The return to the Garamsythe Waterway was not a welcome one, so to speak. The smell alone was warrant enough to drive most people away, the seweage a second reason to make most vomit their lunches, and finally, the increased monster activity. Last time they came, there were little more then rats and common lowlife monsters. This time, Nadeline was face to face with an actual Malboro Overking. It wasn't the only thing, however; flan, lizards, ghosts (seeing those would send Emiri to hide behind Jaakuna as he took care of it), and the occasional Baratine Croc would cross their paths.

Finally, she decided to voice said opinion. "I never knew there was such a...variety of monsters down here." She grimly noted as they recently quelled the Malboro.

For the first time in a long time, Emiri had to agree with her. "It could be the effect of the Esper, maybe? What are we dealing with, anyway?"

"Scion created to rid the world of its impurities by swallowing them within himself, in opposition to Nabriales the Majestic, scion of light. The world, however, was more filled with impurity and corruption than even the gods dared imagine, and having swallowed it all, the once beautiful Cúchulainn was transformed into a hideous thing, a deity of filth, and so did he turn against his creators. Wherever his feet should fall, there all life withers to dust." Nadeline recited as a response, giving a shrug. "I suppose it corrupts and impures things..."

[AlteredTundra]

It would seem the plan was already decided. The four of them would go into the Garamsythe Waterway through the entrance near the Aerodome of course. As they would descend into the sewage of the waterway, they came to be in the presence of that smell they’ve all grown to love to hate. It was one of the most deplorable smells out there. However, they all had to adjust to it…again. Well, Wesley rarely goes down to the waterway, so he isn’t as accustomed to the smell.

As they walk through the sewers, there seems to be more monsters than usual. Jaakuna did find it odd, but Wesley had to assume that it was from the Esper as he remembers reading that it had control over things corrupt and Immpure. That would obviously lead to the conclusion that the esper itself can make the monsters coming out more. Still, it did lead to unanswered questions. Jaakuna shrugged it off, but Wesley wondered about it all.

When they would encounter some more monsters, a Malboro Overking was among one of the many monsters out and about. Emiri and Nadeline seemed to hide in terror. Jaakuna and Wesley shrugged it off as they went towards the beast together, Jaakuna wielding his Demonsbane and Wesley his Platinum sword, and together they sliced it into bits. Jaakuna would do vertical slices and Wesley would do horizontal. In a matter of seconds, the Malboro Overking had been chopped to bits by the two men. They would look back at the ladies as they somewhat cheered for them.

Continuing down the path they were on, they came to a patch of stairs that led to a clearing. Jaakuna looked at the girls, then to Wesley. He knew that this is where the esper had to be. Either that or it was already gone, but the monsters were still around, so it must still be here. “Not far off it seems.” Jaakuna said. Wesley looked at the clearing and he nodded. “It seems like that, Jaakuna.” Wesley would follow Jaakuna’s lead and hopefully the girls were following.

[Hero]

As the group reached the clearing, Emiri swore she heard the faintest clicks of armor coming together. At first she thought it was Jaakuna's blades, but it got louder. A man stood some distance before them, sheathing his blade. He heard them coming, and when he turned, she saw his face had many scars about it.

"Harris?" Nadeline was shocked to see him here. "What are you doing here?"

"Your Highness...I had heard you left Stigma, but I did not expect to find you here." The man was just as surprised to see her here, and he looked to each member of the group, specifically examining each one of them. "A prince, a sky pirate, and a young woman...you have quite the taste in your companions, my lady."

The blonde haired girl was not amused. "You haven't answered my question."

Harris looked at Jaakuna for a moment, then back at Nadeline. "If only I could take you home, but alas, I am on a mission at the moment. I think it's only fair that I warn you, your companion there--the blonde Sky Pirate--is a wanted man back in Archadia. A select few between Rozarria and Archadia have called a temporary truce to track both him and you down, princess."

"All this for a pirate?" Emiri inquired at this point.

Harris frowned, clearly uncomfortable, looking as if he was torn between informing Nadeline and his orders. It seemed his loyalty to Nadeline proved stronger, as he continued, "He must answer for his crimes...please understand, Your Highness, we are concerned for your well being, I am sure your father wouldn't like it if he knew the company you carried."

Nadeline stepped forward at this point, raising en eyebrow. "And I suppose my aunt is having you go around fetching Espers? You cannot truly be fathering power for her sake! She will ruin Rozarria! We must make peace with Archadia as to avoid war. There is no need for you to get the Espers."

"Your Highness is right in that aspect, however, just as our truce unifies us against a common enemy, so have we our blades to each other's throats." He tried to explain. "If the Empress does not start the war, then the Emperor will. You are too young to understand, war is inevitable at times, no matter what our efforts."

The general let out a sad sigh, though held out his hand in front of him. Emiri gasped as a symbol appeared over his hand. "He...He has the Esper!" She exclaimed.

He nodded, eyeing Emiri at this point. "I was quite surprised to find it wandering about here. I suggest you watch where you tread, young lady, your presence alone is enough to unlock them from their seals. Yes, I am well aware of your identity. But right now, I have other matters to attend to. I leave you with Cúchulainn--defeat him, and you are one step closer to the truth. I pray for your safety, Princess." He bowed, taking his leave.

A glyph appeared from where Harris stood, and from it emerged a sickly monstrosity. He gave them a wicked grin, and from that alone they could see where all the impurities of the waterway came from--Cúchulainn.