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

[Hero]

Somehow, someway the blue haired woman had rid Jaakuna of his demonic form. It was amazing, so to speak; what kind of power did she possess, truly? Nadeline couldn't help but feel there was more to her, however. Even the barrier had fallen, at which point Wesley and Savayna immediately stepped in front of Jaakuna, most likely protecting him from the woman. Grant eyed the woman, and he joined Savayna, crossbow at the ready. Nadeline shortly followed, though Emiri stayed put, staring at Shion. The blue haired woman watched as the group surrounded Jaakuna. It was admirable, yet foolish. Zodiark had not been completely expelled from the man, and Shion had every intent to finish the job. She eyed each one of them carefully, though when Jaakuna stated he could finish her, she actually let out a small chuckle. She dispelled her blade, returning it into the two original katana. She began to walk towards the group, no doubt earning several weapons aimed at her.

At this point Emiri stepped forward, standing between the group and Shion. To her surprise, the woman held out her arm to her side, dropping one of her weapons. Rather than dropping to the ground, it instead fell into a pools of light. She stopped right before Emiri, the much taller woman looking down at her. She lifted her arm up and pointed to her hair. The blue rose glowed once, though more importantly was a single rose petal at the tip of her finger. Jaakuna would surely notice; it was the last one, and she had not used it yet. Emiri looked at it, somewhat confused, but knew this was somehow important. The woman was obviously communicating with Jaakuna and only him.

"I told you, when the last rose hits the ground, your death would have come." Shion spoke outloud, the petal spinning above her finger. "Know this, Jaakuna--everything you saw tonight was only a fraction of my power. You have yet to see what I am truly capable of. So to rebuke your statement...no...you could not 'take me'. I told you before, you assured my victory the moment you insisted on taking more power from Zodiark." She informed him and the group as the rose petal returned to the flower in her hair. She then looked at Emiri before her. Emiri raised her Diamond Sword in response. "Step aside. I need to finish the job."

"I think you've done enough." Nadeline replied as-a-matter-of-factly. "Or do you wish to draw more attention to yourself? The Archadian soldiers will arrive at any moment."

Shion let out the smallest sigh. "If you insist. I am more than ready for battle." She replied, readying her katana in her usual stance. "I can easily finish you all before the soldiers arrive." This woman possessed a strength like no other, Emiri was sure of it. A fight right now would only be suicide. As Shion poised herself before her, it seemed something in the distance caught her attention. "You have all been spared. Be sure to thank the gods that you didn't have to cross blades with me." She stated, backing up. A pool of darkness appeared behind her, and she stepped back into it, falling through and disappearing.

[AlteredTundra]

As Shion would speak, Jaakuna knew that she was right. He was fully-transformed with Zodiark’s influence and she still beat him. And she was right about the flower petals. She was right about how before all of them would fall, Jaakuna’s death would be imminent. She was right about how Jaakuna assured that she would be victorious the moment he decided to surrender himself to Zodiark. She was right about everything and it made Jaakuna sick to his stomach. Even now, as Jaakuna was behind all of his friends and his darling Emiri, he felt so ashamed. Though, to his surprise, one thing did come shining out of this. His clothes would magically appear on his back once more, as if being granted to him once everything had finished.

Looking at them, Jaakuna was going to say something, but what could he say? That he was sorry? That he shouldn’t have done it? That he didn’t know what he was doing. No, he knew what he was doing. He did it all voluntarily and he knew the risks that would come to it. Jaakuna knew it all and he was so disgusted with himself. Wesley would turn to Jaakuna, seeing the complete despair on his friend’s face. “Let’s go back to the airship.” Wesley said as he would start heading to the aerodome, as well as the others. Whatever they would talk about would have to be said aboard the ship in private.

As they would head off to the Aerodome, it would only take them five minutes as the airship was somewhat close to where they were. The five minutes that it did take them to get there was full of nothing but awkward silence. The girls were mad at the guys and the guys were so disappointed in themselves, that they really didn’t want to speak even if they were asked a question.

Aboard the Ifrit, and in the dining room, everyone sat at the table, silent. Wesley looked around the table and he didn’t even know how to bring up a conversation. He knew eventually the elephant in the room would have to be addressed and currently, that elephant was blonde and had just done something incredibly foolish. “I think--”

“Save it Wesley, I know.” Jaakuna said with the least amount of life in his voice. Jaakuna was still looking down, completely feeling like a husk. No, that’s not right. He was just so broken about what he did and about how he knew that on the inside, everyone was hurting cause of what he did and so goddamn angry at what he did, but perhaps the question they wanted to ask was why he did it. “I know you’re all thinking it and don’t even bother asking it.” Jaakuna said in the same lifeless-like tone. “I know what I did was beyond foolish. I know that nothing I can say will ever explain or justify it.” Jaakuna said, “I know that there’s no turning back from any of it.” Jaakuna said sighing and looking at everyone, but he would stop at Emiri, mouthing the words of ‘I love you’, but then he would just look at no specific direction. “I’ve decided that it would be best if I left..” Jaakuna said.

[Hero]

Awkward couldn't begin to describe the trip back to the Ifrit. It wasn't enough that the day had been horrible, the night had been ruined and now that all the adrenaline was gone, Emiri felt downright miserable. How and when did things escalate to the way they were now? Why did these things have to happen? It was one thing after another, no breaks in-between. It was as if some malevolent force was behind all this, torturing them unneededly just to see who would crack first. It was just too cruel. As they sat around the table, the silence felt suffocating. Her head hurt; now that she was calm, her little stunt with Lola caught up to her, it seemed. Then Jaakuna would announce that he would leave, and as she connected eyes with him, she just didn't know what to say. She wanted to cry, though.

"Left? Left where? Isn't this your airship?" Grant asked, earning him two slaps on the back of his head. "Ow!"

"Don't be ridiculous, Jaakuna." Nadeline would tell him, though she would admittedly come out rather strong as a result of her anger. "This is not an issue you can take on alone. We are your friends and allies, we won't abandon you in your time of need." She said, looking at the rest of the group. "We can overcome this together."

"For now, could we please...please just call it a night?" Emiri asked, though it came out more like something between a beg and a plea. "I can't even think right now." She admitted, her head aching something fierce now.

[AlteredTundra]

As much as Jaakuna wanted to agree with them and say that they were right(except Grant cause what he said just was too obvious), Jaakuna just couldn’t do that. Not only was his mind in a place where he couldn’t see past what he did and how it obviously hurt the ones he cared about the most, he himself didn’t feel like himself. Perhaps Jaakuna wanted to just take time away from everything and get a clear head. Or maybe he thought he would hurt them at any given moment? Whichever the case, he would hear Emiri and nod and said nothing.

Wesley looked at how lost Jaakuna looked and while he wanted to say something, he knew that there wasn’t much that he could say. He would then hear Emiri and nod as Jaakuna had just did. “Yeah, I think it’s time we retire for the night.” Wesley said.

It would seem everyone just nodded as well, but Jaakuna didn’t do much else. He just walked up and went to his room, not even looking at Emiri.

[Hero]

"What does it mean to lose?"

The question had come somewhat out of the blue. As the pair sat in Emelia's room, sitting side by side on her bed, she had decided to ask him a question. Grant frowned slightly, though it was not out of displeasure, rather being one of thoughtfulness. He stared at the wall for a moment, thinking carefully. Emelia didn't expect her question to warrant such effort. There had been nothing for the pair to do; the wedding rehearsal was said and done, every detail had been taken care of, and all that was left was, well, the actual wedding. Still, it had to be postponed for another few days, though this was somewhat of a relief as now everyone could scrutinize over every little detail for the millionth time. Emelia didn't care much, but she found herself thinking. She decided to ask Grant; he was one of the few she could ask things and not get scolded for it.

"Well." Grant started slowly, lightly scratching his head. "It means...something you used to have is no longer in your possession. Though that isn't to say it is just physical. You can lose a lot of things that you cannot grasp. Memories, emotions, sense of self..."

She nodded politely. "Anything? Is that why people are so afraid of losing things?"

"Of course. Losing things is much too easy." He admitted. "Recovering them is often a very long and arduous process. Even gaining things isn't too easy...that's why people treasure them." He would take her hand as he spoke, his thumb lightly running over her engagement ring. "That is why we value the things we do. People rage, drown in sorrow, their hearts ache when they lose precious things."

She looked at him, violet eyes on gold for a moment. "Ii don't...think I have ever really lost anything too important."

Grant smiled, lightly kissing her. "I hope you and I never have to experience that."

A surging pain jolted Emiri awake, causing her alarm. She let out a somewhat muffled cry of pain, grasping her head. Every part of her body felt the pain this time, and not just her head. She panicked slightly, still half asleep and unaware that she was no longer dreaming--or rather, no longer remembering her past. After a moment, the pain ceased, leaving the brunette gasping for air somewhat. She felt like an immense weight had been pressing against her chest. She was terrified. Another moment passed, her breaths now even and her body now calmer, though her mind was still hazed somewhat. She let out a low groan, absolutely hating herself. Lola's touch was like a ghost on her body, and nothing she did or thought could erase it.

She sat up, her hair threatening to free itself from her ponytail. After Jaakuna had left, the group went to bed wordlessly. It had truly been a day from hell. She considered sleeping alone and even went to the empty room, but after tossing and turning for a while she found herself going to Jaakuna's room anyway. He was so still, she didn't know if he was even asleep or awake. She did remember wrapping her arms around him, whispering that she loved him over and over and over, as if that would somehow make him better. It was so stupid. He didn't need to hear her stupid words, he needed real help. Maybe in some way it had been a way to comfort herself more than him.

The brunette let out a long sigh, brushing her hair off her face. She was drenched in a cold sweat. It was then that she realized how quiet it was. Normally with all her thrashing and crying she would have woke Jaakuna up. Actually, he was always up before she was. Only then did it hit her to look to his side of the bed, and she realized he was gone. Her heart froze for a moment, not believing her eyes. "Jaakuna." She stated breathlessly, as if saying his name would summon him. No, no, why wasn't he here? "Jaakuna..." She repeated, tears in her eyes. After another second her body acted without her input. She practically threw off her sheets, ripping her dress off from last night and pulling on the first dress she saw. After hastily stuffing her feet into her boots and getting cut in the process (her dagger was still inside and she didn't bother taking it out) she ran out of Jaakuna's room.

He was in the kitchen. The dining room. The lounge. The medic bay. No, no, no, and no; Emiri searched the entire ship rather frantically, her panic only rising as she checked each room. Her footsteps running through the halls would catch Nadeline's attention, and the sleepy princess forced herself out of bed to check what was happened. As she exited her room, Emiri nearly crashed into her. "Emi, dear, what is--" She asked groggily, though she was cut off.

"Jaakuna--he--he's not here!" Emiri squeaked, her voice cracking slightly, though before Nadeline could react the brunette nearly shoved her to the side.

"Jaakuna? Wait!" That certainly woke the princess up, though before she could act Emiri had already beamed out of the Ifrit, no doubt to look for the missing Jaakuna. "Oh for the love of--" She huffed, irritated though she immediately began to bang on everyone's doors. Grant was the first out, wide awake and alarmed. "Jaakuna is missing, everyone get up!' Nadeline hollered, banging on Wesley's door.

"What? Where could he have gone?" Grant asked, eyes wide.

[AlteredTundra]

This was not something that Francis thought he would ever do. If this was the day before, he wouldn’t even think about doing such a thing, but after meeting Shion and pretty much falling for her majestic beauty, Franics knew he had to do this. He couldn’t be a Judge while being with her, now could he? Nope, he most certainly cannot, which brings him to Hamut’s office. He already did what he needed to do with Roman.

As he was in front of Hamut, he stood there as nervous as he could and obviously the old man was not happy in the least. “So, what exactly does this mean, Francis?” Hamut asked him, trying to remain as calm and rational as he could.

Francis gulped. “It’s as you read, Hamut. I am handing in my resignation as Second Judge. I already did so to Emperor Roman and he has accepted it.” Francis said, “I know that I did not have to do so with you, but for as long as we’ve known each other, I thought it was only the respectful thing to do.” Francis finished.

Hamut was not happy, but for his friend’s sake, he would not show anger. “Well, Francis I can’t say that I’m entirely thrilled, but you are a man who goes by his word. Who am I one to stop you?” Hamut said as he stood up and placed the paper down on his desk. “Though, do enlighten me on why exactly you did this?” Hamut asked him raising a brow.

Francis inhaled and exhaled. “Why does any man do anything?”
“You met someone, didn’t you?”
“Well of course.”

Hamut smiled and laughed, and then coughed cause he was laughing so much. “Well tell me about her?”

Francis couldn’t help but laugh too. “She’s mysterious, bold, ambitious, sweet, aggressive — just everything my ex-wife wasn’t.” Francis laughed more.

Hamut grinned. “Ah, Annabelle, she was a prude, wasn’t she?”
“Hey now, that’s Michel’s mother you’re talking about.”
“Oh right, I apologize, but still. This woman sounds like a wonder.”
“Oh she is.”
“I guess I have nothing to say but to wish you luck my friend.”
“Thank you.”

After exchanging a hug, Francis would depart from Hamut’s office and the old man would keep his laughing going for a while longer. Even as he sat down at his at his desk, a chuckle would continue.

---

As everyone slept soundly, the yelling from Nadeline would wake them all up. Wesley would rub his eyes as he sat up from his bed and he would hear that Jaakuna was gone. That made Wesley prop up straight from his bed and onto to his feet, finding his clothes that he usually wears — his black longcoat, grey pants, and silver shoes. He would step out of his room and he would see Grant was up, asking where Jaakuna could have gone and Wesley didn’t know either.

As just about everyone was up, Savayna was still adjusting tot eh current noise levels and it took her a few minutes to get up and she would get up slowly. She was definitely taking her sweet-ass time getting her dress and armor on, as she just wanted to be ready for anything. Still, she couldn’t help but hear that Jaakuna went missing. When she got fully clothed, she too was out of her room and everyone was in the dining room by the time that she too arrived.

When Savayna walked into it, she saw a frantic Emiri pacing back and forth and just a bunch of confusion. “So, ol’ dumbass left huh?” Savayna said as she sat at the table, lazily resting her arms on the table.

“C’mon Savayna, be a little more caring than that.” Wesley said.

Savayna shrugged, but she really was wondering where golden boy was. “Why not just ask Iris?” Savayna suggested.

Wesley actually thought that was a good idea. “Iris, did Jaakuna leave anything for us before he left?”
“Master Jaakuna left a voice recording for all of you in case you wondered where he went.”
“Play it please!” Iris would play it and Jaakuna’s voice would be heard.

I know you all are probably hating me right now or are wondering why I left. Truth is, I couldn’t face any of you after the disgrace I brought to myself and every single one of you. I don’t know when I’ll be back, but I just needed to take some time away from everything. I needed to just find my reason again. It might seem selfish, but it’s something that I needed to do for me.

To Emiri, I know you’re probably feeling all sorts of emotions right now. You’re mad as hell at me for using Zodiark’s power, and you’re probably crying up a storm. I don’t want you to worry about me, babe. I’m going to be okay. I just need to find myself again. I hope that you understand. I never meant to hurt you. I love you so much.

As the recording ended, Wesley — and probably everyone else — looked to Emiri. Wesley nor Savayna would speak.

---

Jaakuna knew that leaving was probably not the smartest thing to do if he wanted to patch things up with his friends and Emiri, but in his current state of mind, he just couldn’t face them, at least not yet. He had to find a reason for himself again. He knew he wasn’t going to find it staying with his friends. That’s why Jaakuna left, just so he could find himself again, even if it meant taking a day or so away from them all.

As that was so, Jaakuna was in Rabanastre as he took another airship to Rabanastre that led from Archades. He was currently in the Sandsea Tavern, specifically at the bar. He was drinking shot after shot after shot of ale, and the bartender would clean off the countertop and eyed the lost Jaakuna. The bartender was a white woman with long brown hair and green eyes. She spoke with a rather country-inspired accent “What’s troubling you, sweetheart?”

Jaakuna smiled. “I don’t know. Recently, I did something really stupid and I don’t know how I can come back from it.” Jaakuna said as he leaned against the countertop.

“It seems to me that you’re lost, sweatpea.” The bartender said.

She was right. Jaakuna was actually a little shocked at how right she was. “You’re right, but how can I find myself again?” Jaakuna asked her as if she could help him.

The Bartender felt for Jaakuna, she really did. “Whenever I’m feeling down, I take my ass to the Garif. They might be sociable, but if there’s anyone that they can help, it’s you hun.” She said smiling at Jaakuna.

Jaakuna would smile and down the remainder of his drink. “I suppose it’s worth a shot.” He said getting up. “Thank you.” He said as he left the Sandsea and would head to the Ozmone Plain, which was where the Garif resided at. Hopefully, Jaakuna would find whatever it was that he was looking for under the guiding and help from the Garif.

[Hero]

Emiri stared at the ceiling as IRIS played out Jaakuna's message. Had she really come off so angry? Of course she had, she yelled at him, didn't she? A pang of guilt hit her, and the feeling of dread cloaked her uncomfortably. This was her fault, wasn't it? Even as she listened to Jaakuna's voice, she found no comfort in it. She wanted to hear the words from the real thing, she wanted to apologize a hundred times for being so rash. The silence and tension was thick in the air. It was suffocating. No, that wasn't it. She couldn't breathe. She couldn't think. She didn't know what to do. Jaakuna was gone. He wasn't here. Where did he go? Why did he have to leave her? Why did she leave him yesterday? She should have stayed.

Nadeline finally looked away from Emiri, lightly clearing her throat. Obviously the girl was in dismay. Still, this presented a bigger issue. "I presume Jaakuna left of his own free will. There isn't anything we can do...we can only hope that he finds himself as he says and believe in him." She stated to the group rather clearly. "That leaves us with one less member, but the Espers are still at large. We must continue with our mission."

Grant crossed his arms, looking at Wesley. "You said someone at Balfonheim could assist us with that, correct?" He asked him. "Then that should be our next move."

Nadeline nodded, agreeing with Grant. She was also glad he pressed on as she had. Jaakuna would be alright, this much she knew. She looked at Emiri, who had taken her eyes off the ceiling. The brunette wobbled and swayed, much to her alarm. She turned to her, having a somewhat concerned look on her face. She didn't look well when she had bumped into her earlier, and this news only made her look worse. Grant noticed to, and to everyone's alarm, he rushed forward; it wasn't until he caught Emiri that Nadeline realized what had happened. Emiri had fallen, a look of desperation on her face.

"Come back..." Emiri whispered in a rather hushed and pleading voice, looking at the ceiling. It looked like with everything that had happened, this had been the straw that broke the camel's back. As expected, she started crying, burying her face in Grant's chest, hugging him as she sobbed.

[AlteredTundra]

When the recording that Jaakuna left for everyone else finished, they all would take it in their way. Of course, there was a silence after it finished, but with Nadeline’s rather awkward cough as she cleared her throat, she would point out that Jaakuna wasn’t forced to leave and that he did so on his own free will. Even more so, she would further say that they should continue with their mission of getting the remaining espers. Wesley agreed and so did Savayna.

Grant would look to Wesley and ask him that he said someone in Balfonheim could help them. “Yeah, something like that.” [/b]Wesley sighed.

When he got up, Savayna did as well as did the others, but they would instantly take notice to Emiri he seemed to be still in response to the recording Jaakuna left. Wesley would take notice that she would wobble and then fall, landing in Grant’s arms. She would then utter some words. Wesley couldn’t make them out, but the next thing that everyone knew was that she would start to sob into Grant’s chest and hug him. Everyone looked at her with sad faces. Savayna was sad for Emiri, but she couldn’t help but feel a ting of jealousy, but that’s probably just because Emiri was hugging Grant. She had no right to feel jealous, and yet there she was.

Wesley would tug at Nadeline and Savayna, bringing Savayna close to him and Nadeline. “Let’s give them a minute alone.” He whispered to them as he would lightly tug them away from the Dining Room. Savayna didn’t want to, but she didn’t really have much of a choice.

[Hero]

Grant watched the trio leave, though it all honesty he hadn't expected Emiri to get so close to him. Literally. He almost called out to Savayna but at the same time Emiri clung onto him tighter. Boy was this slightly awkward. What made it so was the fact that he realized that he missed it. No, he needed to kick that thought out of his head right now. It was funny, both Emiri and Savayna were the same height, but Emiri felt somewhat smaller for some reason. The somewhat familiar scent of lavender felt so nostalgic, too. Savayna often wore cherry blossom perfume. Cut it out. He mentally scolded himself, gently pulling Emiri away from him.

The brunette let out a hiccup, her tear streaked face looking at him, watery violet eyes looking absolutely hopeless. "It's my fault he's gone...isn't it?" She asked, still crying.

"Don't...don't say that." He responded, lightly wiping away her tears. "It's no one's fault, Emiri. This is just something he needs to do. You have to understand and be patient."

Nadeline looked at Wesley and Savayna, lightly crossing her arms across her chest. Great, now Emiri was an emotional mess. Perhaps it would be understandable, or maybe Nadeline expected better. Did that make her seem heartless? She followed Wesley out, letting him drag her along, though she wasn't too happy with it. "And then there were four..." She muttered, clearly displeased. "Or three. Perhaps it would be best if we let Grant handle Emi, clearly she isn't doing well." She paused for a moment, realizing what she said. "What I mean is...Maybe we should go on to Balfonheim, Grant can take care of Emi. We can leave them here, in case Jaakuna comes back." She suggested to the pair.

[AlteredTundra]

Why was she feeling such jealousy? Seriously, Savayna hadn't felt such feelings since she found out about Jaakuna and Emiri. While she still has deep feelings for Jaakuna, they're more that of a sister-brother/best friend-type of feeling. It was much different with Grant. She loved him and that jealous, selfish, shallow part of her was hating the fact that Emiri was crying in his arms and that WEsley pretty much made her and Nadeline leave them alone. Even as Nadeline would pretty much explain the situation, what she said — no, more like how she said it — just made her even more upset than she actually was. Handle her? What does that mean? Savayna definitely didn't like the way Nadeline said that. Was Nadeline meaning in a sexual way? Gods know that Grant and Emiri have a history and with Emiri's emotional state, who knows what she'd do in a time like this.

When Nadeline corrected herself, it didn't make Savayna feel any better. Just the fact that Grant might fall into whatever temptation there might be with him and Emiri alone made her shutter at the thought. Still, she knew Nadeline was right and despite whatever feelings of jealousy and complete paranoia she had at the moment, she had to put them to the side. "You're right." Savayna simply said. Wesley would look to Savayna and then to Nadeline, thinking about just everything. "I think that would be best. Emiri needs someone with her, so that she's not totally alone in her pain." Wesley said.

[Hero]

Shoot. Nadeline felt like she should watch how she said things, Savayna definitely didn't look too happy. She was more then happy when Wesley would rescue her, and Savayna didn't look like she wanted to completely throttle her, so that was good. The princess nodded in agreement at Wesley's statement showing her agreement. Honestly, Savayna didn't have anything to worry about, anyway. Emiri properly ended her engagement to Grant for Jaakuna, and that was that. Right? Yeah, besides Grant was completely into Savayna. Just because Emiri may be in a vulnerable place right now that didn't mean anything was going to happen. Sure she had been effectively abandoned by the love of her life and left a crumpled emotional mess but that didn't mean anything.

Wow that sounded absolutely terrible.

"I just...he wouldn't have left if I didn't yell at him..." Emiri mumbled, sniffling lightly. "I drove him away...I should have been more understanding, I should have listened, and now he's gone to who knows where?!" She whined, her voice making it clear that she was liable to burst into tears at any moment.

[AlteredTundra]

When it was decided that Wesley, Nadeline, and Savayna would head to the Port of Bolfonheim and that Grant would stay with Emiri, Savayna would peek over behind the wall and see Emiri and Grant still in each other's grasp. WEsley would notice what Savayna was doing and he would tug at her, causing the blonde to release a mild yell. "What's the big idea pulling me like that?" Savayna said, almost yelling. WEsley just shook his head and released an annoyed sigh.

Wesley would motion Savayna and Nadeline to follow him back into the Dining Room, where they would see Emiri and Grant. He would sit down at the table, and sigh, but then he spoke. "Savayna, Nadeline, and I will go to Balfonheim port." Wesley would inform them, "You two stay here and wait for Jaakuna." He said specifically looking to Emiri. "I know when he's done doing whatever it is that he set off to do, Jaakuna will come back to you, Emiri." Wesley said with the most gentle smile he could offer.

[Hero]

As the trio walked back to the duo, hastily trying to regroup herself and failing miserably. Nadeline hadn't seen the brunette so shaken in her life, it was somewhat bizarre. Still, every cloud had its silver lining, because Nadeline absolutely adored the way Wesley spoke to her so gently. He was truly a saint, if he had been a blonde she would have deemed him a true angel. She noticed how quiet Grant was and didn't take it as a good thing. She wanted to think it was nothing, but her previous thoughts hammered at her head. Her eyes connected with his, and to her absolute delight she found only confusion. Good, Grant was as terrible at comforting people as ever, which meant the situation would go nowhere. That was good and bad. Good because she didn't have to worry (hopefully) about any of his lingering feelings, bad because he might just make Emiri feel worse.

"I understand." Emiri nodded at Wesley as she quietly responded, highly appreciating his idea.

"Good idea." Grant said, though it was clearly obvious he was not too happy with the idea since it was clear he was not good at comforting her. "We'll stay here in Archades, whenever you guys finish just come back and...we'll...all join you." He said rather hesitantly, trying to stay optimistic.

[AlteredTundra]

It would seem that both Emiri and Grant agreed to the idea that Wesley brought up of them staying in Archades, specifically the Ifrit and the rest of them — Nadeline, Wesley, and Savayna — would go to Balfonheim Port on foot to further the mission of gathering the rest of the espers. Wesleyreally couldn't say much in response to them, but he would give a nod. "Then I guess first the three of us should get our stuff ready." Wesley said looking to everyone. "Nadeline, Savayna — we'll meet at the Beaming Station in ten minutes. We must make haste." As he said that, much like the former Commander he was, Wesley trotted off as he would leave the group and just go get ready.

As she watched Wesley head off, Savayna looked to Grant. She really didn't have many words to say aside from what she was feeling and she knew that would be not-so good idea to say them, considering they were of nothing but jealousy. Though, with that being true, she just looked at Grant, as if wanting to say something. Anything. "Take care of her." That's all she found the strength to say. From her mouth, supportive words came, but her eyes bled of jealousy and of the need to want to speak such jealousy, but she didn't.

[Hero]

Grant watched Savayna rather curiously. She seemed like she had something on her mind, but he couldn't be sure what it was exactly. At her request he would nod, though for some reason he didn't think she really meant it. It was very odd for him, he couldn't really think of why either, but he knew she had wanted to say something else, something more. Still, nothing more was said, and so he would get to his feet, pulling Emiri up with him. Nadeline would take her leave, making her way to the armory. While it was nice using something different, she missed her rapier dearly--it had been a present from her beloved, after all. Still, she couldn't help but keep the mysterious feather she had found in her hair again, however. Something about Black Magic was just so exhilarating, so vicious. It was a stark contrast to her usual soothing White Magic.

As the trio would prepare to leave, Grant would have Emiri sit at the table in the dining room. He's wander over to the kitchen and begin making some tea, hoping it would at the very least soothe her nerves. When he turned around, he found himself face to face with Nadeline, geared and in her usual attire. She looked cheerul enough, though he recognized the look on her face. "Yes?" He asked, awaiting her words.

"Emelia--Emiri is in a very sensitive and vulnerable place right now." Nadeline told him quietly, her voice rather hushed. The last thing she wanted was for Savayna to walk into the conversation. "You are not the right person for this, but we have little choice. Wesley is the one who will get the next Esper's location, I would stay but I think it's best if I met his family, and Savayna...is not exactly the nurturing type. That leaves you...but of course, we get to the issue. I would like to think you and Savayna are an item, but we both know that any little thing can either solidify or completely dissolve whatever it is that you two have. I'd also like to think you've changed for the better...and you have definitely proven yourself time and time again. But sometimes opportunities arise...ones that we may or may not see."

Grant almost didn't believe what she was telling him. "Opportunity? What the...you act like Jaakuna is gone or something, he's just finding himself is all." He reminded her, crossing his arms. "He will come back. He has to. For her sake."

The princess shook her head. "Well just like you and Savayna are in the air, this little act has left them in the air as well. Who is to say he will come back tomorrow? Next month? Next year? Who says he will even come back? Those questions are exactly what is going through her head right now. Don't you see how much of a wreck she is? The girl feels abandoned right now. So maybe her emotions can lead to...things happening."

"Nadeline, what is the point of all this? Why are you telling me this?"

"My point is, so long as you and her are together, alone...don't go doing anything idiotic, and don't let her do anything idiotic either." She warned him. "Otherwise you'll ruin three relationships...the one between Jaakuna and Emiri, the one between you and Savayna, and the one between you and Emiri. Not to mention Wesley and I will be very disappointed in you."

"Thank you, Mother." Grant replied rather sarcastically, going back to the tea. He picked up the pot and turned back to Nadeline. "You have nothing to worry about. Just do what you need to in Balfonheim and I will try to keep Emiri calm, at the very least." Nadeline nodded and promptly left. He couldn't believe Nadeline. He was better then that, and Emiri was dedicated to Jaakuna. And he liked Savayna. Really liked her. Even if he just realized she was an afterthought. Oh boy...

[AlteredTundra]

When Wesley had just gotten his Sword of Order, he would only have that. He felt that it was all that he needed for the journey ahead. Even more so, he just didn’t think that having a shield anymore was what suited him, not now at least. Perhaps it was being granted the Lion Seal or given a weapon that belonged to his ancestral father, King Alistair Raithwall, who used it to bring peace during his era and Wesley knew that he would do the same in the current era. After he strapped the Sword of Order on his right waist, he would make his way to the Beaming Station.

Savayna too would make her way to the Beaming Station following Wesley as she got her Ice Queen Sword and her Crystal Ice Shield, to which she placed around her left arm. As she followed Wesley, Savayna became lost in her thoughts. She wanted to say more to Grant, but she would probably just come off as some petty, jealous bitch. It wasn’t like she wanted to feel like this, but knowing that they’ll be alone together — Grant and Emiri that is — something under her skin just crawled at the thought. She knew that all it would take was one thing, be it a slip of Emiri into his masculine arms or Grant seeing how venerable she was, and then the two of them might just be in each other’s arms, kissing, hugging. The thought made its presence known on Savayna’s face as she arrived at the Beaming Station.

When Savayna arrived, Wesley took notice to how uneasy she seemed to be. “Is everything alright?” He asked her.

She lightly gasped, and her cheeks bared moderate redness. “Um, it’s nothing. I mean, I hope it’s nothing.” She said flustered and nervous.

Wesley smiled and eyes were closed. “Don’t worry, I’m sure nothing will happen.” He said.

Eyes opened and a sound escaped her mouth. “I don’t know what--”

“About Grant and Emiri.” Wesley said, “I’m sure nothing will become of them while we are away.” He said.

“What makes you think I’m worried?” She retorted.

Wesley chuckled. “Do not try to hide that you’re worried something might happen; it’s written all over your face.”

Savayna’s face became even more red. She didn’t know that it was that obvious. “Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear. If you can find me out..” She said as she thought back to when she spoke to Grant. “Then surely he..” She was panicking.

“Just relax Savayna. Grant loves you. Sure, once upon a time, I’m sure he loved Emiri, but that’s ancient history. Besides, even if Grant were to act upon his feelings, Emiri’s heart belongs to Jaakuna and only Jaakuna.” He would try to ease her worry.

Savayna knew that he was right, but there was still that lingering thought that she wouldn’t be thinking like at all and that she would respond to Grant with a regretful kiss or something. Then again, the thought of why she doubted Grant’s loyalty to their — Savayna and Grant — relationship began to creep on her. She then looked at Wesley. “You’re right, Wesley.” Savayna said smiling gently.

Wesley would nod and smile back and see Nadeline come in. “Okay, now that we’re all here, let’s go.” He said as the three of them would step into the Beaming Platform and in seconds they would be out of the Ifrit and en-route to Balfonheim.

---

From the time that he got some much needed advice from the Bartender at the Sandsea Tavern in Rabanastre, Jaakuna followed her guidance and would make his way over to the Village of the Garif. He didn’t know if he was going to find what he was looking for there, but he knew that it was at least a place to start. He did find himself wondering about Emiri. He wondered how she was doing and even with the message he left for her and the others, would she understand? Was she angry at him for leaving even though he promised he would talk it out with everyone in the morning? She had to be livid with him. Or maybe she was just so depressed cause he left. Jaakuna didn’t know, but he couldn’t stay with her or with his friends until he figured out what he needed to figure out.

As he was about halfway through the Giza Plains, Jaakuna looked up and he didn’t think that the rain would bring such a sadness to the plains. Perhaps it was also cause of the way he was feeling too. He had just came off of a battle with Shion who had purified him of his Zodiark powers. Jaakuna was happy that she did, but there was also a part of him that felt empty without it. Maybe Jaakuna felt that he was leaning so much on Zodiark’s power that without it he didn’t feel like himself. Either that or after he got stripped of them, he was exposed to the harsh truth that using Zodiark’s terrible powers made him not himself. Whatever it was, Jaakuna would just struggle on.

By the time Jaakuna made his way through the Giza Plains, he came to Ozmone Plain. The last time he was in this area of Ivalice, it felt like a lifetime ago. Though, in all truths, it was only about six or seven days ago. Still, Jaakuna knew that the Garif were only a good three to ten miles away and even more so, perhaps his answers to all of his soul-searching questions would get answered.

[Hero]

Emiri sat in the dining room, playing with the tip of her messed up ponytail. All she could think about was Jaakuna and why he had left her. Never had she felt so empty in her life before, like a part of her heart had been ripped right out of her chest. She should be crying. She should be angry. Frustrated. Confused. Enraged. Desperate. Anything, anything at all, anything to replace this desperation and loneliness she felt. She dropped her hair, letting the ponytail fall on her shoulder. It slipped over and down her back, though it was so loose and disheveled that her scrunchie dropped to the floor. Her eyes looked down at it for a second, though she returned to staring at the table.

At that point Grant walked back, cup in hand. He spotted the familiar clover hair tie on the floor, then looked at Emiri. She wasn't crying anymore, so that was good, but maybe he may have preferred that. She looked completely miserable. He sat down next to her, placing the cup in her view. "It's ginger." He told her quietly. For a moment, she only stared at it, as if it had been the first time that such an object had been introduced to her. She then shook her head, getting up and walking away. Where was she going? Grant quickly followed, though he did scoop up her scrunchie as he walked after her. He needed to say something. "Things will turn out alright, Emiri." He called as he chased her to the lounge.

The brunette sat down on one of the couches (well, rather threw herself on one) and she crossed her legs. "Leave me alone." She told him, running a hand through her hair. "I know it will be fine. It always is." She spoke, her voice lightly cracking.

Why was he so bad at this? Grant tried to remember everything Nadeline had said. "You don't want to be alone, do you?" He asked, sitting next to her. "You feel abandoned, alone...but I'm--we're all here for you." He quickly corrected himself, not wanting to insinuate anything. At the very least, that had gotten her to look at him. He scooted just a little closer, taking her hand. "I...I hate seeing you like this, isn't there anything I can do to make you better?"

"Grant, please, I don't..." She shook her head, though he noticed she didn't take her hand away.

He had an idea. "Listen...how about you stay here in Archades? I'll go out and find Jaakuna." He told her, sitting up. "I'll bring him back to you, that would make you happy, right?"

Would it? Emiri couldn't help but wonder. She couldn't believe that he left her, would seeing him relieve her of the pain she felt? She wanted to think so. "We don't even know where he went." She replied. "He could be anywhere...if he wanted to be found...he would have left a sign, he would have...he wouldn't have left." She took in a breath, her voice coming out a little stronger. "He wants to be alone, then fine..."

"No...no, it's...he's..." Oh fuck, now what? "He's coming back."

"I'm not stupid, Grant!" Emiri suddenly screamed, completely surprising Grant and nearly sending him off the couch in shock. "People don't say 'I don't know when I will be back' and then show up the next day! They say that when they know they may not ever come back, so don't sit there and lie to me!"

"So what, you want me to say he's not coming back then?" Now it was Grant's turn to raise his voice. "I thought you knew him best out of everyone here. He made a mistake and he's trying to fix it, he's doing it because he doesn't want to hurt anyone!"

"Why did he have to leave, then?!" She asked, standing up. "Every time we have had a problem we always faced it together. Every time one of us had a problem we would go to each other. Instead all we get is a message, he didn't even apologize for it. He knew what he was doing. He abandoned us."

Grant stood up as well, placing both of his hands on her shoulders. "Listen to me, Emiri. Jaakuna will come back. I know it, you know it, Wesley and Nadeline and Savayna know it. What Jaakuna needs right now is for you to believe in him."

"He obviously doesn't need me if he left me." She snapped in response.

"Okay, so when do you plan on telling everyone about your issue, then?" He snapped back. "Jaakuna told Wesley and myself about your little problem with your powers. You're giving Jaakuna so much shit about him keeping his secrets that if it wasn't for Justine telling him we would never have found out, would we?!" He probably hadn't meant to yell, but he had just gotten so infuriated. With the information she withheld she had no right to criticize Jaakuna at all. She had every right to be upset at him, to feel guilty, and to feel anger. But that was it. The two looked at one another, clearly steamed, though after a moment Emiri looked away from Grant, trying to hide a guilty look. "What, no more fire now that I've called you out on your bullshit?"

Her purple eyes glared daggers at him. "You...You do not have the right--"

"No, YOU don't have the right!"

"You don't know what I've been through, you don't know what it's like to suddenly find yourself trapped in a space with no way of communication, or anything--"

"What happened to 'we face problems together' then?!"

"There's a reason I haven't told anyone--"

"So it's fine if you keep secrets then?!"

"So what do you want me to do?! Tell everyone and have everyone dote on me?! Because guess what Grant, look at where it's gotten us!"

"That doesn't excuse it!"

"I can't--I don't want anyone to know--because--"

"Whatever fucking reason you have isn't good enough, Emiri!"

"THERE'S NOTHING ANYONE CAN DO, GRANT!"

After that, the two looked at one another, breathing somewhat heavily from their screaming match. Emiri just had a look of desperation on her face, whereas Grant was just plain shocked. Third time was the charm, it seemed. Another moment of silence rolled by, and the brunette turned to leave. Grant whirled around and grabbed he wrist, halting her exit. "There is always a way, Emiri. You said it yourself." He spoke, his voice calm again.

"Not this time." She replied just as quietly. "Chaos said so himself...my body just can't handle my power. I can't just not use it, either. I do it without even thinking, I can't control myself. I'm going to keep using it, even if I try not to. And eventually, I'll just fade away and disappear forever. You guys can't help me this time. No one can."

He couldn't believe what he was hearing. Jaakuna had mentioned that she would fade away, but he didn't think that she couldn't control it. So that was it, then? Yet as she began to walk away, her fingers trailing his and signaling her leave, he found himself acting without thinking. His hand took hers again and he pulled her to him. She stumbled slightly, and found herself in his embrace. It was odd, it felt so nostalgic. He had grown in the past six years, but he held her the same way he did so long ago. His arms were wrapped tightly around her body, effectively trapping her. "We'll find a way." He murmured into her hair.

[AlteredTundra]

From when they exited the Ifrit and went through the Imperial City of Archades, the trio of Wesley, Nadeline, and Savayna would swiftly make their way down Old Archades and into the Sochen Cave Palace. Of course it was full of fiends, but the more that they went through this place — the current one being the third time — they found it a lot easier to traverse through. The monsters seemed weaker. Or maybe it was because they were getting stronger. Wesley’s newfound Earth magick made it easier for him to defeat them quicker and Savayna’s ability to freeze enemies on whim made it easier. Wesley would even notice that Nadeline’s powers have increased quite the amount. Even the ghouls that they faced, which usually were hard for Nadeline to defeat, she seemed to get them into death with little effort.

When the trio had exited the Cave Palace, they would see the Tchita Uplands, which as always, was divided in appearance. Half of the area was full of lush, green grass and the other half with muddy, almost swamp-like grounds. Still, Wesley cared not for the way it looked. His full attention would be to go southeast of the location of it they’re currently at and head to the Cerobi Steppe, to which they will arrive at the Port of Balfonheim.

Continuing on, the trio would make their way through the uplands, killing enemies as they went. They would come across some Malboros and other monsters that fit the Tchita Uplands’ theme of muddiness. Wesley did like the soothing breeze that the Tchita Uplands seemed to have today. It brought him some much-needed comfort as he would lead the two ladies into the Cerobi Steppe, to which had a very interesting contrast to the Tchita Uplands. It was more rustic than the dividing landscape that the uplands had. Still, the trio would not have the time to stop and enjoy the scenery. There was still a lot of ground to cover.

Traversing through the Steppe, the trio would go through the first area. Savayna looked around and looked to Wesley. “What’s this area called?” She asked.

Wesley looked around and he remembered this area. “Old Elanise Road. It’s very famous to the residents of Balfonheim Port.” Wesley said sounding really nostalgic. Savayna would look at him raising an eyebrow, but would not press that further as they would continue onward.

As they came out of the first area and came into the next one, Savayna would ask again and Wesley would respond by saying that the area that they were in was called Crossfield and that it had three areas to which it could be entered in. Wesley would then tell Savayna and Nadeline that the place was the center of the Steppe, but the direction they needed to go was south and into the Journey’s Rest, to which they would arrive after ten minutes of walking and killing as minimum monsters as they could. While at Journey’s Rest, they would do as the title of the area suggested and rest for about five minutes. They would just catch their breath and drink up on some water and eat some of the rations that they had tucked away in their bags.

When they were done, the trio would make the final march through Terraced Bank and after three short minutes of sprinting through, the final area of North Liawell Hills would come to their sight. Wesley would start to show slight anxiety as Nadeline most likely saw and Savayna noticed it as well. However, Wesley put on a brave front and led the two ladies on a straight trek through the area, fighting monsters and other hunters only when approached by them. Though, the hunters wanted to prove their strength against the group. Of course, they were easily overpowered by the trio, but especially since Wesley’ would just launch them miles away using Earthquake and Tremor, which prompted laughs by all three of them and cheers from Nadeline.

“Well here we are..” Wesley said as if dreading it. The sight of Balfonheim came and as they walked through the area that led to the Steppe, Wesley stood there(the two ladies were walking still) and he couldn’t believe that she was here. He most certainly thought she was at least in Dalmasca or somewhere else not here.

“SUGARBEAR!!!!” A bubbly girl cried out, running to Wesley, and hug-tackling him to the ground.

Wesley’s face being dug into the girl’s rather large breaths and he was crying out for help. He would muffle out the words “Ayane…stop…you‘re killing me…”, but it was of low volume and the two girls were at least a ten feet away, but Savayna was the one who noticed that Wesley wasn’t with them. She then looked behind her and saw Wesley being hugged to death(literally) by some girl in a bikini. “Um, Nadeline..” Savayna said as she pointed her finger behind her towards Wesley and the woman currently hugging his head and suffocating him under her rather large breasts.

[Hero]

The trip went well. That was amazing, considering all the crap they had gone through. Still, the walk was nice, and it felt good to fight without having to fear for her life. Sure there were monsters and the like, but they were no match for them. As they walked Nadeline let her thoughts flow freely. The best thing had to be the wind, though. It was almost a shame that they had gotten to Balfonheim so soon! She took in a deep breath, tasting the salt of the sea. It reminded her greatly of their day at the beach. Soon they would be able to go back to those happier times. She watched Savayna and Wesley, and she couldn't help but wonder if they were alright. They certainly acted like their usual selves, but as Emiri had demonstrated in the Ifrit, anything could happen.

The princess had almost missed when Savayna had called out to her; she was just enjoying nature in itself. Nature was also enjoying her fiance in the form of some woman on top of him. No strike that, women would not attempt to smother men with their breasts. Only whores and sluts and maybe Meli would do that. Meli was a total slut so she probably would. Except this woman was not Meli. Who the hell was this whore?! "Who is this?" Nadeline's voice squeaked slightly against her will, though it came out as absolutely horrified. "Young lady, do you mind?! Get off of him this instant!" She commanded her, summoning every ounce of royal willpower and authority in her voice now.

---

One minute. Two minutes. How much time had passed? How long had they been like this? It was just a hug. A comforting hug. Was there more to it? Maybe just a little. But if someone were to walk in on them, it wouldn't be a big deal, right? They all knew what had happened, how she felt, how devastated she was. Or was that justification for something that should not be happening? What was being said with the actions happening right now? There was something happening here. That much was definite. Emiri looked up at Grant. She looked so small. She was small, but she always had a way of looking like everyone else. She looked tired. Drained. What would it take for her not to look that way?

"It's going to be okay." He told her very softly, raising his hand and brushing her bangs out of her eyes. God how he loved those purple eyes of hers. As that thought crossed his mind, he briefly recalled Nadeline's warning. Oh shit, was this idiotic? But as he looked down at Emiri, for some reason he didn't think it was. She needed comforting. People hug when they need comfort. Except the last time he was comforted by Savayna they ended up making love. But that wasn't going to happen here. No, no way, that was idiotic. As if confirming it, he felt her back away from him. See? Everything was fine. He sat back down on the couch, Emiri joining him.

"What if he never comes back?" She asked, leaning against him. Grant lifted his arm around her shoulders, making her more comfortable.

"He will. He has to. He has someone to come back to." He assured her, offering her the clover hair tie. "Just wait. Alright?"

Emiri shifted and turned so that she was hugging Grant. She no longer looked desperate, just very sad. Grant didn't know which was worse. "I just...I need him." She admitted. "Without him I...you're right about before. I feel abandoned, like he just dumped me and left." She murmured to him as she fiddled with her hair tie. "Why would he just leave me like this? We didn't even talk last night...he went straight to sleep. I didn't even get a chance to say goodbye, he didn't even say anything...why am I such a terrible girlfriend?"

"You're not terrible, alright?" He found that comforting just meant denying whatever the person said. "He's lucky to have you. Any guy would be lucky to have you."

Silence. Had he said too much? Was this the idiotic thing? He looked down and saw her asleep on him. Well, that was good. Right?

[AlteredTundra]

Being suffocated by her rather large breasts, Wesley was trying all he could to get Ayane off of him and that’s when both of them heard Nadeline yell and order her off with authority. Wesley knew she wasn’t happy and the compromising position he seemed to be in with Ayane wasn’t going to put him in any good wills of Nadeline. Though, Ayane would hear Nadeline and instantly get off and Wesley would gasp for air, breathing in and out, but he did notice Nadeline’s rather cold look upon her face.

“Now, Nadeline, it’s not what--”
“Wait!? Did you say Nadeline1?”

And it was with that, Ayane propped him, adjusting her top so that her tata’s were popping out. “I’m so sorry, I did not know that you were HER!” Ayane said as she took Nadeline’s hands. Wesley shook his head, repeating the phrase “Oh no, here it goes,” over and over again. Meanwhile, Ayane had Nadeline’s hands in hers. “I am Ayane Domalois, Wesley’s half-sister, and you‘re going to be my future sister-in-law!!!” She shouted, much to Wesley’s despair.

Wesley, not sure how Nadeline would react, spoke. “Now you know why I wanted to avoid coming here.” Wesley said rather anxiously.

Savayna couldn’t believe it even if she was just right there. What kind of stepsister would tackle their brother and call them Sugar Bear? Was that a weird Dalmascan tradition? Savayna surely wasn’t aware of it. To be honest, she thought it was a little odd that Wesley was dreading the journey to Balfonheim ever since he mentioned it a day or so ago. So, perhaps it was the other side of his family that made Wesley nervous. Regardless, Savayna would eat this all up.

---

As he traversed through the Ozmone Plain, Jaakuna looked around, hands in his red jacket pocket, and at the partly cloudy skies. The way the blue sky was slightly covered from the white clouds and the sunlight shining through the clouds just made Jaakuna feel a little better. It was peaceful and as he seemed to be right in front of the entrance to the Garif Village of Jarhara, he felt nervous. No, that’s not accurate. He felt wary of what was going to become of this visit. Jaakuna just didn’t know if the answers he sought were going to be given to him fully or if there would be puzzles. Yes, Jaakuna just was very wary of what would happen.

Shaking off the nerves, Jaakuna would smile at the sky before turning his attention to the entrance and he walked through only to come to a halt at the bridge. He was stopped by two Garif and they would block the entrance to the bridge.

“Male Hume, why have you come to the Village of Jahara?” The Garif on the right spoke.

Jaakuna looked at him with a lost look. “I--I came for guidance.” Jaakuna said as he was still unsure what he came to Jahara for.

The Garif that first spoke inspected Jaakuna’s frame from head to toe, but more so, he looked into Jaakuna’s eyes, sensing that the man who was in front of him was indeed very lost. “I sense much depression in your eyes. You are lost, you do not know what you want, yet you want to know.” The Garif said. “You may pass. The Gran-Chief may be able to cure your lost soul, young hume.” The Garif said as he would eye the other Garif and they would step aside.

Jaakuna nodded to them and would head into the village as he would go across the bridge and soon make his way through the village. What he saw kind of comforted him. In a way, Jaakuna felt right to be here and he knew that whatever he sought would be answered by the Garif. As he would indeed go more through the village, he saw several Garif of varying size run around, spar, laugh, and just enjoy what company they had. It just further added to Jaakuna’s need to be here.

When he came to the biggest tent in the village, the Gran-Chief, Ubail-Ka would signal him in. Jaakuna would enter, and sit before the old chief. “What troubles you, young one?” The Gran-Chief asked Jaakuna.

Looking at him, and hearing his question, Jaakuna looked down, eyes distant from his old self. “I did something terrible and I don’t know if I can ever come back from it.” Jaakuna said, shaking his hands as they clenched up into fists and were on the ground he sat upon.

The Gran-Chief placed a hand on both of Jaakuna’s. “Child, do not anger yourself, do not feel sadness for your regrets.” He said as Jaakuna would look up. “Allow your consciousness to enter my own and I shall help you, child.” The Gran-Chief said.

Jaakuna would simply nod, tears flowing from his eyes. The Gran-Chief would chant out some phrases in the Garif language and as he would, a glow would be emitted from his body to Jaakuna’s and then he would be able to see what bothered the blonde man. He would see everything from Jaakuna’s time with his friends(every bit of it) and all the tiems they laughed, cried, yelled, cursed, loved — everything. He would experience every moment that Jaakuna has since he first met Emiri till this morning when he left her and his friends. He would see all the events leading up to Zodiark being revived and just everything that happened to his father.

And then the glow stopped. The Gran-Chief placed a hand under his chin and hmm’d. “My child, you have had a busy two weeks.” The Gran-Chief chuckled. “You’ve loved, you’ve cried, and you’ve hurt. Everything you have done led up to this very moment, even giving into The Dark Esper’s power. All of it has led up to this very moment.” He continued. “You have lost your reason to fight, and where love should be, disgrace and shame rests in your heart.” He said scooting over to Jaakuna and placing a hand over the young man’s heart. “I sense something, young Archadian. You have a tough road ahead of you.” He said as he rubbed around Jaakuna’s chest, feeling for the pulse and the heartbeat. “Lingering deep inside you is the fire you once had, the fire that aligned your soul with the ones you love.” He said as he stopped his hand on Jaakuna’s central chest area. “Ah yes, a one Emilia Inaibi. She has your love, yes?” The Gran-Chief asked.

When Jaakuna heard all that the Gran-Chief had to say, his eyes widened on the mention of Emiri. “Y-yes, she does. I love her with all of what’s left of my heart.” Jaakuna said as if he had given up on the notion of love. “I-Is there anything you can do to help me, Great Elder of the Garif?” Jaakuna asked almost with pleading eyes and voice.

Removing his hand from Jaakuna, the Gran-Chief looked at him. “Your fire is there, it calls to you, Jackson of Archadia. It begs for you to return to who you were before. It wants you to let go, but you can’t cause of the darkness you feel. That much I have sensed since you came to the Ozmone Plain. I sense the same darkness you gave into still lingering inside you and it demands you abandon those who love you unconditionally.” The Gran-Chief said, “To find yourself once more, you must rid your body of this darkness once and for all.” He finished.

Jaakuna looked at the Gran-Chief. “And how can I do that? “ Jaakuna asked.

The Gran-Chief shook his head. “I know not how to, but a highly-respected Viera whom I know can help you should know how.” He said, thinking back on this specific Viera. “She and I go way back to a time where I was still young.” He said sort of laughing.

Jaakuna raised an eyebrow. Oh gods, don’t let it be her..

“Former Tribe Leader of the Viera, Aloa.” He said, “I trust you know of her.”

Jaakuna was not shocked in the least. He was just shocked that he expected himself to be. “Yeah, I know her. We’ve ran into each other quite a few times.” Jaakuna admitted.

The Gran-Chief laughed, coughing cause he was a little too much. “That is who you must seek out, Young Jackson.” He said.

Jaakuna sighed and would stand, bowing to the Gran-Chief. Jaakuna wasn’t at all sure what would come of his meeting with Aloa, but he did know one thing. If she couldn’t help, then Jaakuna was truly fucked. Before he left, Jaakuna would shake the Gran-Chief’s hand. “Thank you, sir. You at least gave me purpose to continue on and your observations of my fire has helped me at least a little bit.” Jaakuna said. The Gran-Chief nodded to Jaakuna as he watched the blonde youth walk out and head out towards the Viera Village of Eruyt.