Hero

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Was he serious? For once, she actually couldn't tell. Still, in that moment, the only thing she could really focus was on all the small details. The way Jaakuna would hold her close, the rough feel of his hands, the way he smelled. All the little things that made Jaakuna himself, it was as if she was rediscovering him all over again. How could she have forgotten that hair and those tattoos? Even the way he moved when he was with her, though she would put a halt to that thought as she would think carefully about his question. Maybe it was a joke afterall, but...

"Whatever you want," Emiri replied earnestly. "I'm just happy to be here with you. Like...it feels right. This, right now."

---

Once Nadeline would lead Wesley to her room, the maids gathered before them, awaiting their mistress' orders. Nadeline would temporarily release Wesley as she would approach them, though it seemed they had already known exactly what she had wanted. One maid would step forward, placing two bundles of clothes on a nearby table, and each maid would bow deeply before taking their leave. Once the doors had closed, signaling that they were alone, Nadeline would motion towards the loveseat, taking a seat and patting the cushion next to hers.

"No need to be so nervous. I simply wanted to ask your opinion in something," She told him, placing her hands on her lap. She would stare at him rather intently, though after a moment, she would finally speak. "If Reia--if the Empress has the intention of war...I plan on staging a coup d'etat." She revealed to him, eyeing his reaction carefully. "I realize that my last attempt went nowhere, but this time, I believe I am better prepared." She gave him a small smile, though it would fade quickly. "Although...honestly, I think I would like to ask Grant to take the throne. I believe he is ready for it. What do you think?"

---

Grant's expression immediately fell. It would seem Savayna wasn't quite as satisfied as Wesley and Nadeline were, nor was she about to drop the subject anytime soon. He almost felt like a child getting caught taking a cookie fromt he cookie jar, and he couldn't bring himself to think up an excuse. The maid in the room immediately knew she was not to stick around, and would take her leave as soon as possible, making sure to close the door behind her. Damn, there was his only possible means of escape.

Running a hand through his hair, he would stare at Savayna for a moment. He should have been happy they were alone, but it seemed he had made an error in that part. Letting out a long sigh, Grant rolled back one shoulder as he would look righ back into her blue eyes. "I honestly don't feel it's my place to tell everyone. Everything I had mentioned before was the absolute truth--there was no deception there." He informed her. "I'm sure Jaakuna will tell everyone himself soon. It was another brash decision he made...one he...one I couldn't understand." His voice seemed to drop, his expression looking a little sad. "A decision borne of desperation and love, I suppose."

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Emiri wanted to believe Jaakuna, she truly did. She held his hand tightly, choosing to look at him carefully. This was the first time in a long time that they were together again, fully anyway. She couldn't quite count the time on the Ifrit since Levi had shown up. But now it was only him and her, and despite the silence, she was happy to have him there with her. If it were possible to stop the world just to savor more time with him, she definitely would do whatever it took to keep him with her. There was a lot they could talk about, a lot they could discuss, but at that moment, she just didn't want to deal with any of that. It was a childish thought, but she decided she would take advantage of the reprieve.

After a moment she would take her hand back from him, shifting her position with some difficulty as she would make room for him. She managed to lay on her side, patting the empty area next to her. "Come here," She told him, eyes bright. "It's been a while since it's just been you and me on a bed together."

---

They bit and believed, and for just a split second, Grant felt a pang of guilt. No, it was the truth. Whenever Jaakuna would decide to tell them about Levi would be up to them--Grant would be firm in the belief that it just wasn't his place to say it. However, the theory would prove to make Wesley realize something, and as Grant listened, he couldn't help but agree. Although the realization then came that perhaps Levi was working with Zodiark then opened up a whole can of other problems. For now, however, he would digress. They could talk more tomorrow, and Grant had to admit that he was pretty exhausted.

Savayna's voice would snap him out of his thoughts, and he would blink several times before registering what she had said. "Ah, of course." He murmured, his tiredness finally starting to take its toll as revenge for not resting earlier. He half-wished they would go back to the Ifrit, as the ship was basically a second home, though that would be odd considering the castle was his actual first home. He would nod to Savayna, leading the way in silence. The man had too much on his mind, and he feared that instead of resting he would end up staying wide awake.

As Grant and Savayna would depart, Nadeline would give Wesley a girlish giggle, hugging his arm tightly. "You can stay with me in my room again," She would suggest firmly, already dragging him back to her quarters, though she doubted she would get much resistance. "I'm sure you don't want me out of your sight for some time, hmm?"

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Emiri would shake her head at Jaakuna, putting her hand on his. "If anyone is to blame, it's me." She would correct him gently, gripping his hand tightly. "I was so desperate to remember...all I wanted was to see you happy. It was so frusterating, all the feelings I had for you there, just lingering, longing for you. No matter how hard I tried, the best I would get was blurry images and the feeling of nostalgia that wasn't enough." She shook her head, silently cursing herself. "I was impatient. I wanted to be normal again, I wanted nothing more than to see you smile!"

She would hesitate, but she would release his hand for a moment. In her haste she neglected to inform him that something was wrong. Now was as good a time as ever to come clean. Taking in a deep breath, she would fiddle her fingers as she stared at the ceiling above her. "I think the worst part about everything that happened...I am ashamed. Not because I attacked Nadeline, not because of the way I acted. It may have been wared, but I had meant everything I did and said." She admitted, clearly guilty. "My mother is dead...and do you know what was the first thing I felt? Relief. I was...I am glad she is gone. And I feel horrible for admitting it. All Papa ever wanted was for us to get along again, and here I am, happy she's dead! What kind of daughter am I to be glad my own mother is dead?!" Her body tensed up as she would confess. "Even if I was mistreated...even after everything, at the end of the day, she was still my mother. I should have cried, I should have been sad, but no...it was a bittersweet relief instead. What kind of monster am I, really...?"

---

Grant really hated being put on the spot, moreso now that he actually knew the answer to their question. But was it really his place to say? When Jaakuna had told him, he had felt so betrayed, he couldn't imagine how the others would react. He looked at Wesley and Savayna, unsure of what to tell them. For once Nadeline didn't seem to have the need to hound him, and for that he was grateful, but it made him feel all the more worse. They deserved to know...but Grant didn't have it in him to confess Jaakuna's truth. Not the whole thing, anyway.

"It would seem that Emiri had been...possessed, or something, by the likes of Zodiark," He began slowly, unsure of how to put it to words. "That was Jaakuna's suspicion, anyway, it didn't seem that he knew for sure." That much was the truth. This much he owed them.

Nadeline stared at Grant, wanting to pry more, but it seemed the adrenaline had worn off and all her energy had left her. The logical part of her head told her that she was partly to blame for baiting Emiri, but right now the only thing she could really focus on was getting to a bed. "How dreadful..." Nadeline murmured, clinging to Wesley's arm. "I wonder if it's the same thing that happened to Lola."

Lola had gone insane as well. It was little more than coincidence that Nadeline had mentioned her. Perhaps Grant could get away with this after all. "It's a good theory." He admitted.

The princess wanted to ask more, but she would concede. "Honestly, I would like to rest as well." She admitted, frowning. "[b]Even if we were to get to the bottom of this, Aloa has guaranteed that it will not happen again. "I fear I'm about to drop where I stand."

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Nadeline let out a breath she was not aware she was holding. What had happened in that moment could have gone wrong, very wrong. On top of everything that had happened, she would come to regret putting herself in such danger. She had expected a fight, yes, but not in a thousand years would she had even dreamed of the possibility of Emiri wanting to actually kill her. She had managed to stand, somehow, and while she had heard Aloa, she was shaken. Emiri had every intent to murder her right there and then, and if it wasn't for Aloa, she would have become a sheath for Emiri's dagger.

Finally, the silence would snap her out of her reverie. Wesley would break said silence as he walked to her, and she braced herself. The prince was surely going to let her have it for doing something so utterly stupid. Instead, he would pull her to him, embracing her so tightly she was surprised he could still breathe. His words would hurt her so, so much that she actually wished he would have yelled at her instead. She shook her head as much as she could, though she would embrace him back. "Forgive me. I was too hasty." She would plead him, closing her eyes for a moment.

Aloa would bow as Grant approached him, his displeasure being clear as day. "Highness, you have returned to us as well," Aloa greeted him as she would stand.

"I--We are in your debt once more," He told her, giving her a slight bow. "Truly, you have my gratitude. Though I must ask, what was it that you did?"

"The princess' Esper attempted to seal away the darkness, but it would seem your trip has exhausted you all. I merely reinforced and completed the seal, nothing more," She told him.

"Then, we have no more worry? Will Emiri act out like that again?" Grant asked her.

Aloa would look at the door where Vlyn had left through. "Highly unlikely. Though I understand what happened here was unfortunate, the true tragedy was in her heart, it seemed." Aloa stated, shaking her head. "Denial. Sorrow. Anger. These emotions borne of despair and suffering...and all of Rozarria has been cloaked in a despair so thick it shakes the very roots of this country. Emiri is not the only one shaken by the day's events."

Grant would nod, bowing to her once more as Aloa would take her leave, presumably to tend to Andre as was her original intention. As he looked over at Wesley and Nadeline, finally resting his eyes on Savayna, he felt tired. The day had taken its toll on him, and what had just happened made things worse. He felt like dropping down and sleeping on the ground beneath him, but he would force himself to endure. He wanted to tell them the cause behind Emiri's attack, but right now...right now just wasn't the time or the place. He would walk over to Savayna, taking her hand in his as he would look at Nadeline.

"We hold out for tomorrow." He informed the pair.

---

Vlyn would lead Jaakuna to one of the many guest rooms. Once he would place Emiri down on the bed, he would give Jaakuna his full attention. "I'll leave you two alone--she'll awaken very soon." He informed him, giving him a wink as he would take his leave.

As if on cue, Emiri would stir for a moment, letting out a groan as she would open her eyes. Her surroundings were completely unfamiliar, though before she would panic, she would see Jaakuna. She tried to sit up, but it was as if every bit of energy had been sucked out of her. She would opt to remain laying down, though she would turn her head to him. "Jaakuna...I..." She began, though she would fall silent.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

"Ugh, I don't know how much longer I can keep my sanity..." Vlyn whined, leaning on Aloa for support. "The Mist feels like it's getting worse and worse..."

"We must prevail." Aloa instructed him curtly as she would help him walk. "If Karolina can remain strong, then you can as well. I need you to tend to Lord Andre--there is something I must do."

Vlyn's ear twitched, and he would drop to his knees, almost dragging Aloa down with him. He grunted, clearly in pain, though he would look up. "There it is again...! What is this feeling?" He exclaimed, his voice panicked.

Aloa knelt down to him, grasping his shoulders. "What is it, Vlyn? What troubles you so?" Aloa asked him, though she would let out a small gasp as she would sense it in the air. This sinister feeling, this darkness, it was crippling the Mist-sensitive male viera. But why was it here? It was not strong enough to be Zodiark, but its presence was imminent. "Remain here!" She would tell him as she would stand, running to the source of the strange Mist. Where was it coming from?!

Meanwhile Nadeline had heard both Wesley and Savayna loud and clear, and she agreed with both of them. When Savayna of all people would note that a fight wasn't a good idea, that was really a sight to behold. Emiri wasn't quite listening, oddly fixated on Nadeline, though the princess would finally let out a sigh, closing her eyes for a moment. Now Emiri was the one baiting her, making her look like the unreasonable one. The princess let out an annoyed huff, finally opening her eyes as sh would muster what little patience she had to her. She had to be the bigger person. If her father could do it, so could she.

"Wesley's right, Emiri. You need rest." Nadeline said quite bitterly, forcing herself to stay civil. "You clearly don't know what you're saying."

The brunette was surprised. The princess was usually so hot-headed, to see her fold simply because she didn't want to look bad in front of her precious fiance was hilarious. However, the longer she looked at Nadeline, the more that fucking look on her face annoyed her. You think you're so much better than I am, don't you? The thought crossed Emiri's mind without her realizing it. I know one way to get that smug look off your face. "Say, Naddie, why don't you tell everyone what you're really thinking? Hm?" Emiri asked her, feigning ignorance. "You know I'm right, don't you? You agree with me, right? You know how horrible she was to me, you remember all those times I cried, how much I didn't want this life. You actually agree with me, right?"

To say she was thrown off guard was an understatement, but Nadeline held her ground. "I have no idea what you're talking about." She snapped. "I'm not heartless. I am fully aware of what she did to you, but that doesn't excuse your behavior in the slightest. No, how about you say what it is that you really want to say? You're glad she's dead. Just get it out, let it out how much of a monster you are for actually being happy your mother is dead!" In that moment, something seemed to snap inside Emiri's mind. Her violet eyes widened in fury, and before anyone could react, Emiri would slap Nadeline across her face. The princess took a step back, her own eyes wide, though she would follow suit. Nadeline punched Emiri, and she would knock the brunette down, repeatedly punching her. "I'm right, aren't I?!" She would yell at the brunette, furious.

Emiri would catch Nadeline's next punch, bringing her knees under Nadeline as she would kick her off. Emiri would disappear from sight, showing up above Nadeline and kicked her down to the ground. "You know nothing! You understand nothing!" Emiri screamed in rage. "You spoiled brat! You, who have never had to work a day in your life, you who has had everything given to her!"

Nadeline got to her feet, spitting out blood as she looked at Emiri. "You'll have to forgive me, you missed that pity party back in Giruvegan." She stated. As she would take a step forward, a voice would call out to her, halting her steps in the process. Heed not her words. There is a sinister darkness in that girl's heart. It must be purified. She would recognize the voice as Ultima's as it would speak to her. "Great." She muttered as Emiri would run to her.

Have her be still, I will take care of the rest. Ultima assured her as Nadeline would prepare herself for Emiri's onslaught. Inhaling sharply, she would grab Emiri's wrist, taking her foot and kicking the back of Emiri's knee. As the brunette would fall, Nadeline would hold her palm to Emiri's forehead, a holy glow emanating from it. She had absolutely no idea what she was doing, but she would have to trust in her Esper. However, Nadeline's magicks were still severely depleted from their previous fight, and the glow would fade. No magicks, now what?! Nadeline cursed inwardly, though Emiri would headbutt her, catching her off guard.

As Nadeline fell flat on her butt, this time Emiri was the one on top. However, instead of using her fists, the girl would decide that it was time to end this, withdrawing her dagger as she would raise it, fully intending to plunge it into Nadeline's chest. Emiri could feel hands trying to stop her, presumably Wesley's or Savayna's, but she didn't care, and would only try harder. The doors would burst open at that moment, revealing a panting Aloa as she spotted the scene before her. Emiri was fast, but Aloa was faster, and she ran forward, grabbing the brunette by the back of her neck. "You who are burdened by your sins, let the light of redemption guide your will and seal your inner demons--Signaculum!" She chanted, and Nadeline would realize that Aloa had combined her previous spell with one of her own.

All was still for a moment, with the only sound heard being that of Emiri's dagger falling to the ground. Emiri would then fall off Nadeline, unconscious, and the princess herself would sit up, breathing heavily. Aloa knelt down, inspecting Emiri. "Everything is still, as it should be." Aloa stated as she would stand.

Nadeline finally managed to control her breathing, looking up at Aloa. "What...what in the world is wrong with her?" Nadeline asked.

"A spell far more advanced than anything I could have imagined. It is something people of ancient times had used, once, though it is most effective on humes, as you can see." Aloa explained, lightly tussling her hair. "A darkness that goes deep inside one's heart, one that brings out the thoughts never meant to see the light. It took advantage of her grief, but worry not. It will not happen anymore." She said, her ears still.

Vlyn managed to limp in, though he seemed much better than before. "Uh...bad timing?" He asked.

"No, perfect timing. Carry her to a room for her to rest." Aloa smirked at him, earning her a scowl from Vlyn.

---

Grant scoffed at Jaakuna, somewhat in disbelief. Jaakuna tried so hard to justify his actions, but Grant could tell the only person he was trying to justify anything to was himself. For someone who often boasted loudly to the world of his power, Jaakuna sure knew how to react when he was helpless. The dark haired man was silent for a moment, staring intently at Jaakuna. He had a lot he wanted to say, but there was a difference between finding the cause of problems and pointing fingers. Taking in a deep breath, Grant would place two of his fingers on his temple, trying to understand things from his point of view. Perhaps it was his own encounter with Levi that blocked him from putting himself into Jaakuna's shoes, but he just couldn't see himself doing the same.

"If Aloa were around...I'm sure she could do something about it." Grant muttered, trying to find a solution. "This is all becoming quite a strain on my own head. One problem solved, a dozen more pop up. It never seems to end." He looked at Jaakuna seriously. "What exactly do you want to do about it?"

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Nadeline couldn't help but lightly pound her fist on the coffin. "The suffering of my people, their screams for blood will not be ignored. Shion had wanted the mines blown up so that the magicite would bring balance Zodiark's warped presence, but instead, the Dark Esper was one step ahead of her." The princess clenched her fists tightly as she would look down on Justine. "Lola was always unhinged, all she needed was a little push to become full-on psycho. And look at what has happened..."

She would then turn fully to her companions. "Father has told me that the Council is currently meeting with the Empress. Justine's death, as well as the many who have perished today, will be the sole reason Rozarria will go to war." Nadeline would hesitate for a moment, crossing her arms. "The only thing we can hope for is that the Council would deem war too risky, we have lost much in terms of people and power. Or at the very least, it would be delayed for some time." She would then let out a small sigh.

---

Levi.

Grant's mind seemed to go blank for just a moment. He was sure Jaakuna was expection some sort of response, but Grant was focused on just one thing. Levi. The snake. Jaakuna had trusted the woman who was literally infamous for betrayals, the one who had nearly gotten Grant killed. He was almost waiting for Jaakuna to explain that this was some kind of cruel joke. That he was lying. No, it was no lie, it was the truth, and Grant was in denial.

Somehow, someway, Grant had managed to maintain eye contact with Jaakuna. For just a split second, Grant wanted to punch Jaakuna in the face. But it seemed he had acted without realizing, and while he hadn't him him, Grant had grabbed Jaakuna by his jacket, gripping it tightly.

"Levi...Levi of all people." Grant's words were surprisingly calm all things considered. No, he could not strike Jaakuna. Jaakuna had somehow managed to forgive him when Emiri was also hurt in his care, but somehow this felt so much worse. "Jaakuna...why...why would you do such a thing? Levi plays for no one but herself! She would never have done it without having something to gain from it!"

It was then that something in Grant's head would click. "Are you...are you trying to tell me Zodiark is in her head?" He asked Jaakuna, his eyes widening. "Emiri's mother is dead, her father on the edge of life and death, do you have any idea what that does to a person? I wouldn't be surprised if Emiri is mentally shattered...her psyche must have taken a toll..and you're telling me Zodiark is in there somewhere, possibly manipulating her?!"

---

The door to the throne room would open, alerting Nadeline, Wesley, and Savayna to Emiri's arrival. She would walk over to them, taking a good, long look at the coffin. Nadeline watched her carefully, raising an eyebrow as Emiri would touch the flowers around the coffin.

"They're beautiful, aren't they?" Emiri asked them quietly, a gentle smile on her face, though it would fade as she would look at Nadeline. "You look more like my mother than even I do. You, Karolina, and Justine...all the perfect blonde haired, blue eyed maidens. You look very much like my mother, give or take some years." Emiri admitted to her, playing with the end of her ponytail.

"Yes, you do take more after your father." Nadeline was inclined to agree, specifically noting Emiri's darker hair and paler skin. "I suppose that was just the luck of the draw."

Emiri gave Nadeline a cold, hard look. "Yes...that must be why you have that look." She said, narrowing her eyes. "Lorenzo has it, too...that snobby, judgmental look my mother always used to give me, like you knew so much more than I did."

Nadeline knew this was coming, though she had hoped it would have been in private, rather than in front of Wesley and Savayna. She placed one hand on her hip, watching Emiri carefully. "Must be a talent I inherited from my father then, the one where I can see right through you." She stated sharply. "I understand you must be suffering, but I don't believe that's any cause to take it out on me."

"You're absolutely right!" Emiri nodded, looking down at Justine. "It's just...I thought that look would have died with her, but I guess it still haunts me. I see her in you, isn't that strange?" Emiri looked up at Nadeline, who seemed to look at her with pity. "Why are you looking at me like that?"

"Because I thought you were strong. I never figured you would let her death shatter you as such." The princess admitted, baiting her. "But look at you, lashing out at everyone just because you're angry and upset with yourself. You wish you could have done something for her, you wish you could have saved her, don't you?"

The brunette looked at Nadeline in surprise, though she would look at Justine. After a moment of silence, she would let out a laugh. She was laughing? Now it was Nadeline's turn to be surprised as Emiri would lightly pat her on the shoulder. "Oh, that was a good one, Nadeline!" She told her cheerfully. "No...no, I don't. I wish I could have saved Papa, but her...she can stay dead, for all I care."

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Nadeline would lead her troop over to the old throne room, and as she would look at the flowers, the realization would start to sink in. It wasn't that she believed Emiri was lying, but the fact of the matter was that Justine was truly dead. She couldn't believe it, even as she would see the woman in the coffin, still as glass. For a moment, she almost believed Justine would open her eyes once more, but as the minutes would pass, the truth would come down on Nadeline much harder than she had anticipated.

She would reach out, lightly touching Justine's face, and would shake her head as she trembled. No, she would not cry. Managing to compose herself, instead she would clasp her hands in a silent prayer. She hoped that Justine would reach the afterlife peacefully. Once she finished, she brought a hand to her face as she would shake her head once more.

"Forgive me, I...I was not prepared for this." She admitted to Wesley and Savayna. "Even when my grandfather had passed, I was never one for funerals. Of course, I had my young age as an excuse at the time, but now..." She would then refocus, a serious look on her face. "The casualties must have been astronomical for them to use the castle for the wounded. The people will not stand for this." She stated grimly, looking at Wesley as he would surely catch her implications.

---

Grant relaxed in his seat fully, not quite as reserved as Nadeline. He needed some damn rest, though he was disappointed when Jaakuna would remain. The blonde would take a seat next to him, and for some reason, this made Grant sit upright once more. Perhaps there was something he wanted to talk about. But when Jaakuna would sigh, there was something in the pit of his stomach, a feeling he couldn't shake off. Jaakuna would then speak, informing Grant of something he had done.

The prince was silent for a moment. He was truly afraid to ask at this point. He was honestly glad that everyone saw him as a confidant, but in all honesty, anytime Jaakuna had confessed to anything, it always meant bad news. His golden eyes would remain on the table in front of him as he would speak, "There was something bothering me this whole time." He would admit to Jaakuna. "Emiri had regained her memories much too quickly. No, that wasn't it. She's not really herself right now. We can all see it."

Grant would tear his gaze away from the table, staring directly at Jaakuna. "I don't know why, but I fear what you're about to tell me has something to do with her." He said. "Please tell me I'm wrong."

---

Jaakuna had told her to rest. And yet Emiri's legs would lead her once more to her father. Her frail, silent father. She would slowly sink to her knees beside him, placing her hands on his. He was so still, but he was breathing. He was alive, why wasn't that good enough for her? She wanted to see him smile at her, she wanted to hear his voice. As he was now, he may as well have been dead. The suspense was killing her on the inside.

"Papa, wake up," She pleaded with him, as if hoping her voice would stir him. As nothing would happen, she could feel despair gripping at her heart. The gentle headache would subside for a moment as she would grip the blankets around her father. "There's something wrong with me, Papa. I don't know why, but I feel so--so angry all the time. At Lorenzo, at Nadeline, at myself, everything...! Papa, Papa, I'm scared!" She whimpered. "Why can't I quell this--this burning hatred inside of me? I feel like something is eating at my mind, but I don't know what to do! Even when I think to tell someone, it's like...like my mouth won't function. Someone else starts speaking for me, but it's still me, but these dark, evil thoughts I had tucked away deep in my heart..."

She would put one hand on her chest, shaking her head. "I think...I think it started when I saw Mama. She's dead...and you know what the first thing I felt was? I was surprised, but then I felt happy. I actually felt happy that my own mother was dead! When Grant's mother died, he was so sad, he was miserable, when the previous Emperor died, everyone was sad, but me? I'm happy. I'm happy, Papa!" She let out a small giggle, adjusting her position so she would look at him better. "She'll never bother me again, Papa. She'll never bother us again. So please, please get better. It'll just be you and me, but I promise, I'll take good care of you, Papa. We don't need Mama anymore."

Emiri would laugh, a joyful smile on her face as her eyes shone with delight. "She's dead. The wicked witch is dead. The bitch is dead."

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

"It was odd and very much unlike her to do so,' Grant managed to put in his own opinion as he thought carefully. "However...I find it rather interesting that Lola is no longer working for Shion. The explosion and casualties seemed not to be her intention."

Emiri looked over at Jaakuna somewhat nervously as he would speak. Nadeline rolled her eyes, clearly displeased with his attitude. "Ironically enough, I was...am...glad she appeared when she did." Nadeline stated, looking at her own hand as Ultima's symbol would glow gently. "Were it not for her, we would not have learned about the Espers and their Chosen Ones. She mentioned that the Gran Kiltas had dreamed of Ivalice's demise, but it seemed these Espers can grant us powers that would be able to combat Zodiark."

"Truly? I haven't heard anything from Chaos in some time..." Emiri seemed disappointed. "Yet...you think Shion's appearance was...good?"

Grant let out a sigh. "I have to find myself agreeing with Nadeline. Shion has a power unlike any other...and today, we witnessed something that could combat it within Wesley.' Grant nodded at the prince. "Maybe it would not be at her level quite yet, but something within us all--we who were chosen by the Espers--can attain that kind of power."

"The power of love conquers all." Nadeline stated, sporting a grin, though it would falter as she looked at Emiri. "And you...you're alright, are you?"

Emiri looked at Nadeline curiosly. "Hm? I am worried about Papa...but there's nothing I can do right now." She let out a sigh, perching her chin on her hands as her gaze went down to the floor. Nadeline didn't seem to take that well, an annoyed look on her face. Grant looked at Emiri as well, though he wasn't really sure what to say. Emiri looked up, catching Nadeline's eye. "That's the same look your father gave me." She told her quietly, raising her head.

It was then Nadeline would narrow her eyes. Indeed, Emiri seemed...off. Somehow. She couldn't quite put her finger on it, though her eyes would dart over to Jaakuna, if only for a moment. "Did he now?" Nadeline asked her, placing both her hands on the armrests of her chair.

"He did." She stated, and an odd tension would fill the air as Emiri would stare at Nadeline. The princess would not budge, though she would raise an eyebrow. "Is there something you'd like to ask, Nadeline? You look like you have something to say."

Now it was Grant's turn to raise his eyebrows. "What? I think you misunderstand her, Emiri." He said, scratching his cheek.

It was then, however, that the brunette would wince, catching Nadeline's attention. "Again...my head hurts again." Emiri stated, closing one eye.

"I'm more than sure that is why Father wanted us to rest up." Nadeline said, one finger tapping the couch. She wanted to confront Emiri directly, but she wasn't quite sure if she wanted to do it in front of everyone. And yet, the previous tension seemed to disipate as Emiri would rub her arms.

"I'm sorry." She apologized, completely shocking Nadeline. "I just...I don't know what's wrong with me right now. I have all these thoughts in my head, I don't know what to think or do with myself right now. I feel like I'm going crazy..."

Was she wrong? Nadeline was hit with a pang of guilt, and she would look away. Grant would shake his head at Emiri. "It's grief, Emiri. Sorrow, despair...it's not easy, losing one parent and having the other hang in the balance, unknowing if they'll live or die." Grant would explain, though he would look at Jaakuna. "I think a moment's reprieve is exactly what we need."

Nadeline nodded, and she would stand. "I agree. Right now, however, I would like to pay my respects to my aunt." She said. "A short break, then?"

"I'd like a moment off my feet." Grant waved at Nadeline. "I will do the same once I've caught my breath, chasing you around wore me out."

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

"I would say the same, though our reunion would prove that both groups have much to share," Nadeline stated, frowning as she looked at her father. "You went with them as well, Father?"

"Actually, I would think it's time for a little break," Lorenzo winked at Nadeline, lightly patting her head. "You look beat, and if this is how you look, I can't imagine how Wesley, Savayna, and Grant look."

"A break? Father, there is no time for rest!" Nadeline insisted, lightly stomping her foot. "Zodiark is now out on the loose now that I have Ultima, and what's more, I must know whether or not a possible war is on the horizon!"

Lorenzo strode over to his daughter, getting down on one knee before her. "I get it. Really, I do. But there's not much you can do, once that adrenaline of yours wears off you're going to end up flat on your butt."

Emiri lightly rubbed her arm. "He's right, Naddie. We can just talk and catch up...no need to go running off so soon, right?"

Nadeline immediately took note that Emiri lacked her wreath. Had the process of recovering her memories been completed? So much had happened, she had nearly forgotten. Maybe it really was best that they compare notes first. Letting out a small sigh of defeat, the princess would clap her hands. Two maids would come through the door, bowing deeply to their mistress. "Prepare my room for five guests, we will be holding a meeting there." She ordered. The maids would bow and take their leave as Nadeline flipped her hair. "Rest will come once we have told each other our stories. Much has happened, and we learned something very important today."

Lorenzo nodded, though he would stop Emiri from walking for a moment. "Best thing to do is talk it out, I have my own things to take care of, starting with our little treasure." He stated, rummaging through his pockets. "It would be a good idea to tell each other everything. Including our more shameful moments." He would place her hair tie in her hand, earning him a gasp.

"This is...!" Emiri's eyes widened considerably.

He would grip her shoulder, though he released it. "I hope that rage of yours has settled. The only thing getting angry is going to accomplish is hurting yourself or someone close to you. Remember that." He warned her, and after giving Jaakuna a wink, Lorenzo would take his leave.

Nadeline raised an eyebrow at her father, though she would turn her attention instead to Grant, who had finally caught up. Before he could speak, Nadeline would walk past him. "Come now, Grant, we will be gathering at my guest quarters. Do try to keep up, will you?"

"Are you alright?" Emiri asked him as she would tie her hair back into her usual ponytail.

Grant let out an irritated huff. "I think Nadeline's managing to wear me out worse than Ultima did."

After regrouping and navigating the castle, the group would end up once more in Nadeline's room, albeit in her guestroom as opposed to her actual sleeping chambers. Grant's mouth would water as he would spot an assortment of snacks and food, though he managed to remain composed as he would take his seat next to Savayna. Nadeline would sit on one of her armchairs, perching herself daintily. He had to give her credit, she never once stopped looking like royalty, not even for a second.

Once Emiri was seated, she caught Nadeline staring at her. "What's wrong?" She asked.

"I was wondering...if you remembered us after all." Nadeline replied quietly, a small frown on her face. "So much has happened, I would like to think that finally, we are all together--each whole--again."

Grant seemed to agree with her. "Though I must ask, what bid you to return to Stigma?" He asked Emiri and Jaakuna.

Emiri lowered her gaze, placing her hands on her lap. "Jaakuna told me...about the explosion. I didn't know what had happened to my parents, so we came. But my mother...Justine is dead."

Nadeline sat up immediately, clutching at her chest. "Say it isn't so! Aunt Justine..." Nadeline would sit back in her seat, clearly in shock. "That is...my condolences, Emiri."

Grant never disliked Justine, though he was well aware of her somewhat strained relationship with her daughter. He closed his eyes for a moment, though would open them once more. "And what of Lord Andre?" He asked, a little afraid of the answer.

"Papa is...alive. If barely..." Emiri stated somewhat bitterly, grasping her dress. If only she could help him...why did they stop her?

Nadeline let out a sigh of relief, though she would look out the nearby window. "How dreadful...so the silence outside was one of grieving. Mother must be at a loss..." She would then turn her attention back to Jaakuna. "Then how did you end up leaving with my father?"

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

The trip from Giruvegan to Stigma was uneventful. That was the way Grant usually preferred it, as he knew once they would return they would need to compare notes with Jaakuna and Emiri. He was actually rather impatient, as a thought had crossed his mind that perhaps Emiri had discovered the fate of her family. He didn't really want to mention it, feeling that it wasn't quite his place, but he seemed to get more uneasy they closer they got.

Once they would begin to walk the streets of Stigma, the streets were very quiet, all things considered. Where was everyone? A similar thought would cross Nadeline's mind until the group would see people gathered along the main streets of Stigma. The princess didn't like the look of it at all, and after managing to push her way to the front, she let out a gasp. A funeral line was made, coming from both the castle and the hospital. The amount of casualties suffered from the mine explosion was staggering, and much worse than she had anticipated.

Grant closed his eyes, offering a silent prayer to the fallen, though once he opened his eyes, he would look to Wesley and Savayna. "Heading to the castle would be the best thing to do right now." He suggested quietly. "If there was ever a time for Archadia to strike, it would be now. Or perhaps Reia will take advantage and go to war, claiming this incident as reason enough?"

Nadeline's eyes widened as she looked to Grant. "No. If I can help it I will not allow it." She stated, though she would then weave around the people, running to the castle.

"Don't run ahead!" Grant called out, breaking into a run after her.

Reia cannot be so foolish. A good quarter of our military division was near the mines. Even if Reia were to convince the Council, Dalmasca would have none of it. Roman wouldn't be able to do nothing, either!. Nadeline let out a huff as she reached the palace gates. "Nadeline of Rozarria has arrived! Open the gates!" She stated to the guards. Without hesitation, they would open for her, and she would run inside.

Grant would stop at the gates, heaving in deep breaths. "Nade--line...slow...down..." He huffed, his hands on his knees. He had no idea where her sudden burst of energy had come from, considering that she had gotten more injured than he had. "We...we should be regrouping, not running off!" He let out a sigh as he straightened up.

Nadeline wouldn't stop despite her legs now aching. She skidded to a halt outside of Reia's office, placing her hands on the door. At that moment, Karolina would spot her. "Nadeline? You're back?" She asked, walking to her. "What...what happened to you?" She asked, clearly noticing the princess' many injuries.

"Mother! Where is the Empress?" She asked urgently.

"Reia is in a meeting with the Council, things are...hectic, to say the least..." Karolina said, leading her away from the door. "Your father should be back soon with Jaakuna and Emelia as well." That was all Nadeline needed to hear. Without so much as a word, Nadeline ran off towards her father's garage. "Nadeline! Nadeline, wait!" She called, though she would then see a panting Grant followed by Wesley and Savayna. "Goodness, what happened to you all?" She asked, clearly worried.

"A very long story, Lady Karolina." Grant said between breaths. "Although I feel I am to pass out at any moment, do you happen to know where Nadeline went?"

"I told her Lorenzo would be back with Jaakuna and Emelia, and she went running off!" Karolina sighed. "She was certainly in a rush..."