Hero

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

“As I said, I didn’t think it would actually work,” Grant continued to defend himself, a little uncertain as to why Savayna was so upset. He thought she would have been pleased to hear he was defending her, though he supposed Savayna’s pride would state otherwise. He wouldn’t help but let out a small sigh as she voiced her disapproval, though he couldn’t hide the tiniest smile as one word she said rang in his ear: ‘fiancé’. He could hear it a million times coming from her, and the only thing that could make him happier was probably hearing her say ‘wife’.

His expression fell as she would turn away, and he would sigh again. “My apologies,” He said, though it was clear he said it more to appease her rather than actually meaning it.

---

Last she recalled, Wesley’s mother had been in Balfonheim. She was certainly more modestly dressed—though Nadeline didn’t fail to notice how it still hugged and accentuated her curves. Perhaps she had come to assist Wesley’s sister? Or perhaps she was waiting for Wesley’s return. The latter seemed more likely, though as she would welcome them home, Nadeline felt oddly out of place. It was strange, all she could do was fantasize about their future together, getting married, meeting all the important people she needed to, but it was as if all that was replaced with a foreign sense of uncertainty. Even so, even if she still called Stigma her home, that was not where she felt she should be either.

As graceful as ever, Nadeline would properly bow to Belle, though she didn’t hide her surprise. “Lady Belle, what a surprise to see you here,” She voiced her and Wesley’s thoughts. “And Cassandra?”

---

To say Keiran was content was the understatement of the century. He wasn’t sure why he was so damn pleased, though he had to admit his secret smugness against impressing even the Creature had definitely lifted his spirits. He would have hummed, but he didn’t dare do anything that would upset it; Keiran had played his part, and that satisfaction was all he needed. As they walked, everything in the castle certainly seemed familiar, though he couldn’t recall where he had seen it before. Of course, considering his true nature, it shouldn’t have been too much of a surprise, being nothing more than a little speck of Zodiark. Still, he didn’t recognize the blonde haired man at all, but he ignored him, truly in awe of his master.

Emiri had been deathly silent, though not a single thought about anything crossed her mind. No, that wasn’t entirely true; her inner mind was struggling to regain control of her own body, but it was nothing more than a slight annoyance that she promptly ignored. What got to her was the footsteps echoing. Click, click, click…a repetitive notion that seemed to drive her crazy. It made sense…she certainly felt like she was losing her mind.

The being before her was definitely something not of this world. Only the gods could have created something such as this, no mortal could hope to match anything like it. She stared, it was obvious, though she definitely noticed he was returning the favor, his eyes never leaving hers. Nothing else in the room could ever compare, though for some reason, she didn’t really feel intimidated. Not that she believed she was stronger or better, but his darkness was…comforting. It was like a blanket wrapped around her, keeping a silence she had longed for. It felt a lot like Keiran, but much stronger.

He spoke, directly addressing her, even giving her a smile. Odd, yes, but not entirely unwelcome. “I do,” Her response was short, direct, and honest, though she hesitated. “You…wanted to meet me?” She couldn’t quite hide her confusion at that, nor did she bother to stop herself from asking.

---

There you are.

Leaning heavily against the wall, a shining glyph would fade from underneath Shion, and she would wince. Looking down at her hand, she let out a small sigh of disappointment. Perhaps Emiri hadn’t been entirely incorrect, she was definitely getting soft, though she couldn’t simply retire just yet. Said hand was all the proof she needed: her veins were showing through her skin, colored black from Emiri’s strike, the tips of her fingers an eerily colored gray. A very thin, white line cut across her brachial, preventing the darkness from infecting the rest of her body, but she couldn’t deny that the dark poison hurt like hell. And that was saying something, considering Shion had a very high pain tolerance.

Across the room, Aloa eyed her wearily, though she was seated. The viera had seen better days, her other half was on Karolina’s bed, sound asleep. The growing darkness affected the two more then they would like to admit, especially on Vlyn’s behalf, though at least Aloa would not rest. Not yet, not while there was still one thing left to do. She watched Shion’s expression, or rather, the very small change from her usual blank look; her eyebrows pointed down ever so slightly, indicating her distress.

“Would it not be best to contact Francis and inform him of your injury?” Aloa couldn’t help but ask. “You never specified whether or not he knows of your whereabouts.”

Shion looked at her, slightly annoyed. “He is overseeing my flowers,” She grumbled. Aloa knew that translation: he was overseeing her assassins in her place. “Even so…he needn’t worry about an injury of this caliber.”

“An injury that could have easily killed you—the fact that your hand remains intact is impressive,”Aloa admitted. “But pray tell your reasoning, for once I am lost.”

The blue haired woman let out a long breath, standing straight. She needed to endure as long as she could, at the very least, until she could get to Archades. “The Scion’s magicks run through my hand. With it, I can find her,” Aloa’s eyes widened ever so slightly. “With this, he and I will be even.”

“Who? The Sky Pirate?”

“Yes and no. The Prince who proved himself worthy is the one I wanted to get even with, however…” Her voice trailed off slightly, as she grasped her hand, the darkness emanating rather menacingly. “The Sky Pirate will most likely be the first to spring into action. For now, they are scattered, but if they want to have any hopes of defeating Zodiark, they must unite once more. The Prince in Dalmasca, the Sky Pirate in Archades, and…”

“If you speak of Grant, I can find him,” Aloa rose from her seat, Zalera’s glyph shining brightly on her hand. “Then I must be off. And you as well…before your time runs out.”

Shion nodded, her hand forming into a fist. The white line glowed faintly, and she would let out a sigh of relief. There was no time to waste.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

How was he still being corny? Everything he said had been true! Still, he was relieved when she would affirm that she would take good care of it. He had neglected to add that the ring was easily worth a good one fifteenth of the Roselia fortune, but he figured she’d be responsible enough. Not like she was reckless or anything…though Grant was positive he wouldn’t have anything to worry about. He didn’t care much about the soldiers, his thoughts still on Levi. It still bothered him how much she had known about the two of them. Whoever her source was, it was something dangerous, and it couldn’t be ignored.

Speaking of the snake, he was snapped out of his thoughts when Savayna suddenly started yelling at him. It took him a moment to understand what she was talking about. His gaze would fall on the woman on the ground, though he grimaced. “In my defense, I didn’t think a point-blank shot would actually work” He couldn’t help but point out. “And I was defending your honor! …hmm, that was a bit too Wesley-like, even for my taste.”

He let out a sigh.

---

Nadeline was distracted, having not realized that they had arrived until Wesley had offered his hand to help her off her horse. The trip had seemingly flown by, but no, she had been so buried in her thoughts that she hadn’t been paying attention. Keiran had managed to leave a pit in her stomach, moreso than she would rather admit, and despite finally arriving at their destination, she couldn’t quite share Wesley’s excitement or his anxiety. No…it wasn’t right. She didn’t belong here. She was a damn hypocrite, she had tried her best to assure Wesley that this was where they needed to be, but it just didn’t feel right.

Why?

Wesley’s hand squeezed hers, informing her that she was needed. Not in the sense that he was saying so, but his body language spoke volumes. For all his honor, Wesley was very much like an open book. An admirable trait, but ruling a kingdom required some closeness. For the moment, she would shelf all of her thoughts into the back of her head, focusing instead on the matter at hand. Summoning every ounce of authority, she would look at him. Even if he wouldn’t look back, she knew he knew she was staring at him.

Of course he had reason to be nervous. His father was the ruler…how could Wesley possibly feel ready to lead at the drop of a hat? Nadeline, at least, was literally groomed to become a Queen, so she had her whole life to prepare. But Wesley had been different, his father was so young, and the tragedy that befell Dalmasca had left the country hurt. But now more than ever, Wesley had to step up to the plate.

“Lead by example,” She reminded him. “No doubts, no nervousness…put on the Kingly Mask.” The term was one used exclusively throughout nobilities, regardless of country: everyone in a position of power had to put on a mask of confidence, no matter how bad things were and regardless of personal feelings.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

She thought his speech was corny? And here he was, pouring his heart out to her! It was worth it, though, because that look on her face made his entire day regardless of what happened. Still, as she would agree to his terms, he almost broke into another speech. He wanted to tell her everything he thought, everything about the way he truly felt. But honestly, he was a man of few words, and even if he wanted to ignore her and outright say it anyway, he couldn’t bring himself to do it.

Grant would comply with her wishes, if somewhat begrudgingly, though he didn’t have the heart to tell her that his siblings were more than well aware what a sap he truly was—gods knew how much they teased him about it regularly. It was nice to see her better, though he had no idea how he healed her, nor did he know the possibility of being able to do it again. He never had a talent for healing magicks, but for now, he would simply accept it.

Without bothering to ask her permission, Grant would rise to his feet, carrying her in his arms very much like how a groom carries his bride. Before he would walk, however, he would look at her hand pointedly. “Do take care of that ring. It has a lot of love into it, and I don’t think my mother’s spirit would ever forgive me if something were to happen to it,” He said nonchalantly.

---

Lannit was barking up the wrong tree if he was looking for reason. Lorenzo had been listening intently—not that he had much choice, considering he wasn’t from the area and couldn’t offer suggestions—and it became steadily clear on what they needed to do. Crossing his arms, he shook his head at Lannit, closing his eyes for a moment.

“You’re right about there being no time, but we can’t risk getting arrested. Ironically, it’d be faster if we went in, guns blazing, and just kick that thing’s ass and call it a day,” Lorenzo admitted, opening his golden eyes. “A suicide mission…even if it is, I don’t have a choice. There’s no way in hell I’m leaving Reia there, not after she gave herself up just to give us a chance to fix all this shit.”

---

A cough was what finally woke the princess up. Sand had found its way into her lungs, causing her to cough repeatedly in an effort to take it out. Letting out a groan, she would realize that she was partially buried in sand, the wind having picked it up and thrown it over her. It wasn’t a lot, but it was enough to make her struggle slightly to sit up. A stinging pain persisted through her head, though she would ignore it unintentionally as she was in a daze. The Sandsea? Why were they here?

Upon looking around, she would see Wesley laying next to her. Her eyes widened as the events from before flooded her mind—specifically that of Keiran and Emiri. Becoming frantic, she searched the area, as if hoping to see them, but wherever they had left to, they were long gone. How could she have let this happen? No, there was that…thing that arrived, its Mist so foul that it managed to knock them both out. But why? And why take Emiri?

No, now was not the time for questions, especially when some crunching noises alerted Nadeline that they were not alone. Her hand flew to her weapon, though she realized the noises came instead from a squadron of knights. She recognized their armor—they must have been from Dalmasca.

“Greetings, we are a search party dispatched by Her Highness to search for any lost citizens due to the airship crash,” One knight saluted her. “My lady, shall I accompany you and the fallen man back to the city?”

How terrible it had been, had people gone wandering through the desert in their delirium? Nadeline herself had hit her head, so she deemed it likely. It was then she would shake Wesley, trying to wake him. “Wesley, Wesley, are you alright?” She called out to him as she would shake him.

“Wesley? Surely you don’t mean Prince Wesley of Dalmasca?” Another knight inquired.

“It is him!” Yet another confirmed, almost excited. “Her Highness will be most relieved!”

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Letting out a breath he wasn’t aware he was holding, Grant lowered his gun. He honestly didn’t think it would work, nor did he believe it for a moment, but there was no denying Levi’s lack of movement meant that the bullet definitely did something. But he wasn’t interested in the snake anymore, his eyes falling instead on Savayna. He dropped on his knees, taking her into his arms as he hugged her body tightly. To say it was bittersweet was the understatement of the century. All the power in the world…and there was nothing he could do for her.

Nothing at all? The least you could do is try, Zeromus chided him. The love of your life is dying, do something.

Grant looked down at Savayna, his free hand searching through his breastpocket. The Mist flowed around him gently, surrounding the pair. No thinking, just doing. It was easier said than done, but he was positive he wanted to save her. She had to be okay, he had made up his mind that she was the one he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. The magicks in the air resonated with his desires, so much so that his own symbol appeared beneath him.

Finally finding the object he desired, he pulled out his mother’s wedding ring, thankful that Emiri hadn’t thrown it away. He would slip the finger onto her hand, taking it and lightly kissing it. “I can’t guarantee that we’ll always have the easiest of times. I can’t even promise that I’ll be able to protect you. But the only thing I know for sure is that if I don’t ask you to be mine, not a day will go by where I won’t regret it.” As he spoke, an unknowing transfer would happen between the two, with Grant’s lifestream pouring into Savayna’s. “With that in mind…stay with me forever, Savayna.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

The only annoyance in the room was Levi herself, a note that almost made Grant snicker, though now wasn't the time for that. As much as he wanted to run up and punch the crap out of her face. the truth was that Grant had no idea how his seal worked. [i]Channel that uncertainty, take everything you feel, and throw it all away. Power does not react to emotion, it reacts to will. Her fate has been sealed, and you will not be alone ass you pass your judgement. Focus on that fact, let it consume you, and the Seal will bend and answer to your will. He could hear Zeromus in his ear, and that alone gave him more confidence.

Grant agreed with a nod, simply taking out his gun and pointing it at Levi. If she was going to give him an open target, he would much oblige. It seemed like a very odd thing to start with, but he needed to know what he was dealing with. Irrational, perhaps, but he was a man of logic, and he wasn't about to ignore a free shot when Levi so graciously invited him to it. Still, he could feel his Seal imbuing its magicks onto his gun without him even thinking about it. Was this what Zeromus mentioned? It had to be. He really did need to stop overthinking and just go for it. It was time for action.

His finger squeezed the trigger, and he was shocked to find no recoil as the bullet sang through the air. Even if she blocks this, I know exactly what I need to do.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Lorenzo couldn’t help but let out a huff of indignance. The hell was he trying to say?! Wesley was LUCKY to have such a beautiful princess as his bride to be! The entire country of Dalmasca should be on their knees worshipping her! Before he knew it, his crazy father thoughts ran through his head at a million miles per second, and that was when he marched right up to Lannit, pointing a finger at him and letting out a rather loud and unnecessary laugh.

“Main squeeze…’MAIN SQUEEZE’?!” He couldn’t help but shout, clearly unaware of exactly how loud his voice really was. “Oranges wish they could do more than juice and go in a parfait, their mere existence is nothing more than a cruel reminder that they will never amount to anything in the world, and why you ask?! Because when Nadeline chooses to have an orange for the day, the unpicked oranges go and rot, killing themselves from the inside in pure fury that they weren’t even good enough to get so much as a passing glance!"

Lannit looked at Lorenzo with narrowed eyes, as if trying to gauge what crawled up his butt. “What exactly are you on about?” Lannit asked, brow raised as he still tried to figure out Lorenzo’s deal.

Lorenzo seemed upset. No, he wasn’t upset, he just wasn’t thinking. So nothing out of the ordinary. “You’re the one comparing my beautiful princess of a daughter to an orange! What kind of lame-ass term is main squeeze, anyway!?” He huffed, clearly making more of a scene then needed.

“Lorenzo, I’m sure that’s not what he meant by it.” Jaakuna chimed in, hoping to get Lorenzo to at least see the correct meaning of that term.

“Yeah, listen to Jax here! I wasn’t comparing your daughter to an orange - I was simply saying that Wesley is--I mean, that is to say, main squeeze is..uhh,” Lannit was losing his train of thought for three reasons: the way Jaakuna was urging him to shut up, the way Wendy was scolding him with her scary gaze at him, and the scenario he was playing through his mind of an inevitable beating he was going to receive from the Rozarrian prince in front of him.

To pretty much everyone’s surprise (save Jaakuna, who had seen this one too many times to take it seriously) Lorenzo would drop down to his knees. He was deathly silent, his head towards the ground, though he would then let out a loud wail. “I’ve failed you Nadeline! I failed to defend your honor!” He cried rather dramatically, punching the ground. “Forgive your foolish father, I just wasn’t good enough to convince them otherwise! Now you’ll never come visit me after you get married and it’s all my fault! I’ll never see my grandkids! I’m gonna die alone!”

Jaakuna felt like an awkward man right now. Lorenzo being how he had seen him be was making him feel bad for the guy, so much so that he kneeled down on one knee, and patted the man on the back. “There, there, Lorenzo. At least you got Grant and Reia.” Jaakuna said, hoping that would help.

“Geez, what a drama queen.” Lannit said nonchalantly, looking over at Wendy who was still giving him the death stare. He shrugged, and looked to Lorenzo.

The man let out a sigh, indicating his pain, though he knew he had wasted enough time. “So…Jaakie…why are we here again?” Lorenzo asked innocently, outright ignoring the previous conversation. “I mean, besides your clear intention at breaking an old man’s heart into a million pieces.” His voice cracked at the end of his statement, tears welling up in his eyes.

---

Nadeline clung to Wesley, her eyes focused on the due. Something was happening, though what exactly, she didn’t know. All she knew was that once that cloud descended, her head begun to spin. What was going on now? She could have sworn she heard a voice, and she heard Wesley say something to her, but she was reduced to gasping for air. Was this the power of darkness as well? Without thinking, her glyph appeared, though its effect unclear, and she would strain herself to see something in the distance with Emiri and Keiran.

Her vision blurred, her hand reaching out to her friend. She had failed her again. Why? As she would collapse onto the ground, the glyph glowed brightly, a soft light surrounding their bodies. Keiran colored himself impressed; that light would at least protect them from any roaming monsters. He looked at the Creature with some curiosity, rather surprised at his compliment.

“One Scion of Time,” Keiran said, as if introducing her, though Emiri seemed to be ignoring the pair as she stared at the fallen Wesley and Nadeline.

---

Keiran took a look around the shattered remains of Emiri’s mind. A calm had taken over it, the once cracked, shimmering crystals glowing a soft, golden color. The cavern itself had gotten much darker, the only source of light coming from the crystals themselves. It was an unsettling calm, one Keiran was used to, though he wasn’t quite interested in his surroundings now. Instead, he was much more interested in the intricate cage in the middle of the room, holding its prisoner above the water. He peeked inside, spotting Emiri sitting in the middle of the floor. She had been fighting back for some time, though the more time passed, the weaker she grew. The darkness had already crept up her legs, binding her arms behind her, and as she would look away from him, he saw a tendril coiled around her neck.

Her eyes were just as empty here as they were on the outside, though she would pull against her bindings as he would let out a chuckle. “You should rest easy, Scion. Your part in all this has only just begun,” He said, his hand reaching out and lifting her face towards his. “You’re only delaying the inevitable.”
Emiri narrowed her eyes at him. “You haven’t won yet,” She told him, defiant as always. “I won’t give up. My friends will—”

“Be very cruelly informed of your condition as your own body dives a blade into their hearts. Or…something along those lines,” Keiran interrupted her, caressing her cheek almost kindly. “My master has his plans for you, Scion of Time.” He couldn’t help but let out a chuckle as Emiri would continue to glare at him, though she would wince as the darkness would wrap around her body more. “I love that fighting spirit of yours, really, I do. I’d just advise you to…prepare yourself, in case he decides to pay you a visit as well.

She didn’t want other presences in her head, she wanted them all out! Her frustration betrayed her, a tear unwillingly rolling down her cheek. She closed her eyes as Keiran would wipe it away, and was less then pleased when she saw him smile at her. She knew that fondness he had for her was little more than a fabrication, he only saw her as a tool.

“Your prince will come to save his future princess, this much I can promise,” He told her gently. “And when he does…all shall fall to Zodiark.”

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

No, it was clear now that Leviathan herself was the one mistaken.

Throughout the entire ordeal, it was clear that Grant had been silent. He had always been the quiet type; his much more rambunctious siblings always made it a point to remind him just how much of a black sheep he was compared to them. But the thing about being quiet is that you’re always listening. Every step, every word, every meaning behind it, every breath, every movement—it was always crystal clear to him. In all honesty he had never paid it much mind, as he had a tendency to miss things even when he was always listening. But right now, it was as if time itself had slowed down. He could hear it all: Atticus’ shock, Savayna’s weak breath as she would struggle to stay alive, Leviathan’s laughter ringing through the air. It was like something had clicked in his head, leaving him speechless, but as everyone in the room would soon find, no words were needed.

A switch was turned, though it was a quiet surgance of power that would come to Grant. He placed Savayna on the ground once more, much more lovingly, his hand leaving her wound and leaving behind his pathetic attempt at a Reverse spell. Still, it would be the first thing to show Grant’s change, the spell itself warping. It was familiar to Emiri turning back time, although the pain and injury didn’t necessarily go away. The hole formed in Grant’s chest, glowing violet for a moment before disappearing, and this time, it was Grant’s turn to step forward.

“What a conceited little snake, thinking my refusal was not what it seemed—a mercy for her, it was,” Grant’s voice combined with Zeromus, his golden eyes glowing as the Condemner Seal erupted from his hand. “And here I thought you were the more clever between the two of us. A pity—all you had to do was say ‘yes’. But I see you’re choosing the hard way out, now. So be it.”

The surge of power that followed would cleanly blow both Atticus and Leviathan away from him, Grant gripping his gun tightly as his expression remained passive. Zeromus’ image would flash behind him, the Esper essentially giving his approval. “Your judgement has been passed and your sentence is condemnation.” He announced.

And if Leviathan believed she hadn’t been mistaken, he would make sure to make her regret it.

---

Lorenzo couldn’t help but grin at Jaakuna as he finally collected his thoughts. It was a good thing Reia left him behind, otherwise he’d just be pissing himself in a panic. He was surprised he sent Nila away, and couldn’t help but frown in disapproval as he caught Jaakuna’s wandering eyes. Still, once the words ‘prison break’ reached his ears, Lorenzo couldn’t help but let out a howl of excitement, practically bouncing up and down in agreement.

“That’s the Jaakie we all know!” Nothing could wipe the mischievous grin off Lorenzo’s face, and he much too happily obliged as he would follow Jaakuna. As he would follow, he would bring out the familiar fingerless gloves, making sure to strap them on quickly, the gloves briefly glowing as Lorenzo strapped them on. “Tell me, Jaakie, how’re we gonna do this?” He asked, looking more for ‘how many assholes did he need to beat’ as opposed to looking for an actual plan.

---

The future king was confident! Keiran liked him more and more the more Wesley showed more of himself, although being on the receiving end of things was not what Keiran had hoped for. The crack on his face told him that the little lightshow Wesley and Nadeline had going on could potentially pose an actual threat, though he no longer felt the need to cower any longer. Making sure not to get hit by Wesley’s strikes, he held out his hand towards Emiri, the brunette looking towards him. Unfortunately for him, he slipped, entirely by accident—he had mistakenly believed that Wesley had finished, though that last strike slashed him across the chest. His eyes widened, though he would show no other sign of pain, though he did give Wesley an apologetic look. The part of his face hanging on would fall off, leaving a mass of darkness and one gleaming red eye as half his face.

“Oops,” He mumbled as he staggered back, but he would not hold himself, instead standing perfectly straight. Instead, the one that seemed to feel the pain was Emiri: it was as if Wesley himself had struck her, the blow sending her back.

Nadeline’s eyes widened, and without thinking, she immediately rushed to the fallen girl. As she would turn her over to look, she let out a gasp. The strike imbued with Wesley’s magicks had sliced across her, resulting in a rather nasty injury. Emiri let out a cry of pain, writhing underneath the princess. How was this possible?! Wesley hadn’t touched her! She couldn’t help but glare at Keiran, who instead of being giddy, looked...reluctant?

“What have you done to her?!” Nadeline yelled, immediately beginning to heal Emiri’s injury.

“Me? I’m not the one who struck her,” Keiran defended himself with a sigh, gazing over at Emiri, though he would give Wesley a dark look. “Shion did the same thing—though she actually managed to slice my head off. Wonder how that felt for poor Emiri.”

None of what he was saying made any sense to her. Did that mean that he was there when Emiri fought Shion? Even so, is that how they managed to best her? She was so confused, half her attention trying to keep Emiri alive, the other half determined to get to the bottom of whatever it was that Keiran did. Nadeline couldn’t help but shake her head, a fury building up within her. Were the two connected? Could they not attack Keiran without injuring Emiri? Keiran would give her no answers, though he looked much more serious as he would approach Nadeline and Emiri. When had he gotten that close without her noticing?! The only time that ever happened when Emiri used her power—

“My apologies,” It sounded so genuine, that Nadeline didn’t feel the piercing darkness blowing her away. She had somehow managed to put up a Protect, though it cracked as it nearly failed. She landed on the ground, though she would scramble to her feet as Keiran would hold a hand out to Emiri. To her surprise, Emiri could lift her hand, taking Keiran’s and it was then that the terrible darkness suddenly seemed to strike every sense she had. Was this what Wesley was talking about before? “Come, O Dark One, thy power Unlocked in my stead…my Scion…” His words came out as a chant, the darkness wrapping itself around the pair.

Once the darkness would reveal Keiran, no longer did he appear as a young boy. His mischeviousness stayed in his now fully red eyes, though he looked much more like a young adult. Horns protruded out of his head, his clothes more like a mixture of fur and hair. A demon in every word of the sense, though he admittedly didn’t look any more frightening, if anything, it only alerted Nadeline to his true intentions. She watched as he would pull Emiri to her feet, but she, too, had changed, much to Nadeline’s dismay. The brunette would open her eyes, revealing them to be a completed shade of red, empty of absolutely anything.

“What is it?” She heard Keiran ask Emiri, who would look up at him wordlessly. “You wish to continue on? Say no more, let us take our leave, then.”

“Wait!” Nadeline called out, running towards them.

The princess froze in place as Emiri would look back at her, a putrid darkness emanating from her. What was this?! Nadeline nearly threw up on the spot, though she would fall to her knees once more, clutching her stomach. The negative side of her seal, she figured, but how painful it was to have darkness attack your very soul like this one did.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Grant didn’t like where any of this was going, not Levi leaving Atticus to decide nor how Levi continued to demonstrate exactly how much she knew about them. Savayna moved forward, and while Grant moved to stop her, something else had beaten him to the punch. Her pain seemed to be coming from her shoulder, a magick Grant recognized. He had only heard about it once, though Levi had seemed to have put her own personal touch into it. He clumsily managed to catch Savayna before she hit the ground, though he could do nothing for her pain. Levi had them exactly where she wanted them, and what was worse, she was just messing around.

How he wished Nadeline was with them. She would surely be able to alleviate Savayna’s pain, or have some sort of idea how to go about cleansing it, but Grant was at a loss. What was he to do? Why wasn’t he able to think straight? Perhaps it was because he hated the feeling of being trapped, and it was like he was back in that prison cell in Archades. Vincent had been the same, managing to break him down with little effort. Was he that weak? Was he truly that foolish?

Enough. Zeromus reprimanded him sternly. Since when have you been one to self-doubt?

There’s a difference between doubting yourself and knowing you are utterly screwed, Grant defended himself rather bitterly. Our backs are to the wall with swords at our throats. There’s nothing to do, nowhere to run.

And you would simply lay down and die?

He had a point. Even if it was fruitless, even if it led to death, it was better to try and fail than to not try at all. What had he been doing, doubting himself like that? He had come here with a purpose, although now that he was fully aware Savayna’s father was little more than an asshat, he was going to prove himself to her.

Gently placing Savayna down, Grant would stand, adjusting his collar as his mark on his hand glowed brightly. “I’m afraid I’ll have to ask you to stop that, Leviathan,” He asked—no, he outright ordered it as he would brush some dust off his shoulder. “I take back what I said when I asked what you were planning to do, as I’ve just about had enough of this little game between you and I. My decision has been made—once you release Savayna, we’ll be well on our way.”

That’s the confidence I like to see. Zeromus was pleased, the brightening on his symbol in accordance.

---

Lorenzo was awfully quiet, all things considered, only exchanging a glance as Reia was led away. Of course she knew foreign law—Reia was a damn nerd about all laws, when their father was King, she wanted to become a member of the Council specifically to deal in foreign policies. They bit her bait, it seemed, though he wondered if perhaps she was the only one they wanted right now. Surely they would find a way to get rid of him, but too many questions remained. As he was about to wonder what exactly was going on, Jaakuna would essentially throw a temper tantrum. And that was something Lorenzo wasn’t about to take right now.

Lorenzo clapped his hand on Jaakuna’s shoulder, essentially holding him steady. When Jaakuna would surely try to throw the same deathstare he threw at Nila, Lorenzo would throw his own cold glare right back, unflinching. “Instead of wasting time and throwing tantrums, we need to know exactly what the hell is going on,” His voice was uncannily calm, a quiet fury lingering through his eyes. He was severely disappointed in Jaakuna’s reaction, though he would not blame him. “Somewhere along the line, something went wrong. Think, kid, what is wrong with this situation besides the obvious? Why would a foreign Empress be accused of conspiracy when this is the first time she has stepped foot in this country? If your grandfather is calling the shots, what happened to your half-brother?” He urged Jaakuna to get his head together.

---

Something within seemed to spring forth through Nadeline, a power she had never even dreamed she could have. She could feel every ounce of Mist around them, every living creature within ten miles, every grain of sand beneath their feet. Was this what Wesley had? Is this what the Seal was? As if answering her thoughts, Ultima would simply chuckle. She couldn’t even explain it, could she? Nadeline would have scowled, but she had bigger issues to focus on now.

Emiri narrowed her eyes, though she would simply hold her sword at the ready. Nadeline took in a deep breath, a white Mist surrounding her as it engulfed her blade. Emiri mimicked her, a dark Mist in her blade, charging up. Once again, Nadeline would lunge forward, her rapier ahead of her, and as Emiri would run forth, the two would only stop as their blades collided, their respective energies crashing into one another and resulting in an explosion of Mist that would send both flying in opposite directions.

Nadeline couldn’t help but curse as she skidded to a halt, clearly not knowing her own strength. No, that wasn’t it, it was the fact that Emiri matched it that really worried her. Indeed, Emiri seemed to be oozing darkness, practically bathing in it as she would walk towards Nadeline. The crown upon her head was fitting, it was as if she had crowned herself the queen of darkness. Still, Nadeline wasn’t about to give up, instead she would hold her sword at the ready. As the two would make eye contact, their battle would begin once more.

I will save you, I swear it!

Keiran let out a low whistle, though he couldn’t help but chuckle. Indeed, these Seals were truly a force to be reckoned with. Though he thought Nadeline should be more careful; a fresh Seal could easily wane against Emiri’s darkness. As he contemplated the thought, Wesley would address him, and Keiran would look at him with genuine interest.

“Done with the little beast already? Bravo, Highness, bravo,” Keiran couldn’t help but clap for Wesley, though he remained sitting in the air. “But I’m afraid I must advise you that me being ‘next’ wouldn’t be in your best interest. Although…” His feet would touch the ground, and Keiran would open his arms, inviting Wesley to strike him down. “You’re more than welcome to try. Perhaps you’ll have better luck than the Blue Rose did.”

When Keiran would touch the ground, Emiri took notice right away, backing away from Nadeline. However, the princess wasn’t about to let her get away just yet, and took advantage of Emiri looking away. She stabbed her rapier into the ground, forming a makeshift cage of light around Emiri. She would gasp as the cage would shrink and form a bind on her, though her eyes widened as Nadeline would form a symbol with her hand, the very same one she did back in Stigma Castle.

Emiri let out a scream as Nadeline would attempt to purify the darkness, and a single crack formed on Keiran’s face. He grinned, looking over at Nadeline. “Uh oh…now your princess has made her angry,” He warned Wesley, gesturing at the scene.

Nadeline held fast, even as Emiri resisted. She ignored her screams, focusing on removing the darkness in her heart. You mustn’t continue! Ultima warned her, catching Nadeline by surprise. Unfortunately, it would not be as simple as she would have hoped, especially when an explosion of darkness would knock her away. Emiri let out a rageful scream, breaking her binds, and it was then that the Mist around her would darken so much that it almost made Nadeline nauseous. Why was it so corrupted?! Was Emiri truly the source, and not Keiran as she and Wesley had suspected?

Emiri clutched her chest, panting heavily, though she would then laugh. “Almost got me there…almost,” She admitted, holding out her sword so that it pointed at the ground. “Too bad ‘almosts’ don’t count.”

She must be incapacitated before you can attempt that again. That darkness is different from the other you have encountered, it runs directly from her emotions,Ultima said.

Nadeline let out a small, happy sigh, grateful for Ultima’s advice, though she would pay more attention as Emiri would drop her sword. It would fall, point in first, though when she pulled it out, another sword, this one colored gold, would take its place. Now Emiri would dual wield them both, taking a battle stance. Jaakuna would’ve been tickled pink had he seen this, though Nadeline didn’t like this new skill. How was she learning these things so fast? All magicks, even the Seals, required some knowledge. There was no way Emiri could learn these things so quickly!

If Wesley and I were to fight her two on one, we may have a chance, but that Keiran is a variable… Her eyes narrowed on Emiri as she whipped her rapier to her side. No, I must believe that Wesley can take care of him. All I should do is focus on her…maybe then…! Emiri spring forth, interrupting Nadeline’sthoughts, and the battle raged on.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

As concerning as the black blood was, Grant couldn't help but have his focus elsewhere. All this information they were getting, how exactly had they come by it? It was almost as if they had had an eye on their activities, as if someone had told them everything about them. But it wasn't possible--he even neglected to tell the rest of the group why they were going their own way. So how did Levi know about all that? For a moment, she reminded him greatly of Lola, who 'had her own way' of getting information about them. Was there a possibility that the pair were working together? The thought was enough to make him raise his eyebrows, though he wouldn't give Levi the satisfaction.

"Selling me out to an Emperor to have me hanged may count as wronging me," Grant pointed out, though he eyed her carefully. Now that he recalled, that black blood was similar to the blood those demonic looking entities had bled back when they had gone out in Archades. So Levi really was working for Zodiark--and had gotten more than her fair share of power from him, it seemed. "The better question is what you will do now, your movements and involvements are as unpredictable as ever."

---

Espionage and conspiring against another Emperor? How bitterly familiar that sounded--though it was Roland who had those exact charges. Reia would've laughed had the situation not turned so dire, though she couldn't help but raise en eyebrow at the judge. How boys loved to play the authoritative figure, especially without so much as a spec of proof. She had never met Roman, much less conspire against him, but during his reign as Marquis of Bhujerba, she had heard a lot about him. So much so, that she was fully aware these charges were little more than obvious lies. Hamut was likely the culprit--the only reason she couldn't quite guess was why.

Unfortunately for her, Lorenzo was less than calm. The blonde man looked positively offended, and would stand, each gun cocked and aimed at him as he would place his hands on his hips. "The hell you talking about?! We just got here with Jaakie and we're being arrested for no good reason?" He scoffed, clearly annoyed. "Why is it that anytime someone tries to do something good, someone else has to come along and fuck it up, huh?!"

Indeed. Reia wholeheartedly agreed, though she was glad to see that, at least, they didn't target Jaakuna or Nila. She did, however, find it a bit strange that they accused Lorenzo as well. Wasn't she enough? Reia would slowly rise from her seat, a hand on Lorenzo's shoulder as she would force him to sit back down. "That'll do, my brother, but there's no point in resisting on my part," She stated, lightly brushing out the wrinkles in her sleeve. "However, Judge Ixion, you are mistaken. Under the decree of your conspiracy laws regarding outside influences of those non-Archadian born, section four, sub-article sixty-two, a foot regarding specifically those of royal blood not belonging to any house of Archadia--including Rozarria, Dalmasca, and other fallen countries--as long as you have proof of the accused's royal bearing, only the reigning Emperor--Empress, in my case--is to be held responsible for any and all crimes against Archadia," She stated, almost rambling as she would flick her earring, giving it a glow. "I hold here the Eye of Roselia, proof of my heritage. In layman's terms...I will take sole responsibility of your accusations."

Lorenzo almost opened his mouth to retort, though he knew exactly where this was going. If this was a legitimate claim, Ixion would take her and only her. If this was something fabricated, Ixion would ignore her--either claiming the laws had been updated (something that so rarely happened these days) or saying any other reason--and take both her and Lorenzo. The man briefly took a look at Jaakuna, wondering if he was paying attention. Still, what would happen next would depend entirely on what Ixion would choose to do.

---

Keiran watched Wesley intently, his left eye a glowing red as he studied his movements. He seemed to have a good handle on his Order Seal, this much he would admit, though the prince had been talented before receiving it. A truly shining example of a descendant of the Dynast King, and Keiran may have even congratulated the man. Still, now wasn't the time for that, and his master had yet to send him another order, so he would keep his attention for now. The beast was on its last legs, but everyone knew that the time when any living being was most dangerous was when it knew it was going to die. The beast's inner core would glow ominously, a sickly green color protruding from it. It seemed to still have at least one more trick up its sleeve as it would take flight once more, albeit barely keeping itself off the ground. Roaring once more as the core would become more erratic, it simply flew towards Wesley, intending to take him in a kamikaze attack.

Meanwhile, Nadeline was struggling. There had been a time in the past where she and Emiri were just about even in swordsmanship, but now, it took everything she had just to avoid getting stabbed, and even then, the numerous cuts on her body showed just how far behind she had fallen. Emiri was now faster, stronger, and more honed, though she was unsure if it was because of their travels, because of the dark powers boosting her abilities, or a combination of both. She had to admit the girl was certainly keeping her on her toes, though she had a feeling that Emiri was just toying with her. Why did she not land a decisive strike? Was the old Emiri still in there? Or was this just a clever ruse so that the moment she let her guard down she would go in for the kill?

Their blades clashed and locked with one another, Nadeline gripping her rapier with two hands, though she nearly cried when she saw Emiri pushing back with only one hand. Those violet-red eyes of hers were crazed, yet sharp, a determination she had never seen before etched in her face. "You're slipping, Princess. I suppose you've come to rely on your Prince far more than you should," Emiri's voice was a quiet taunt, though her lips would smile. "I understand...I was weak, too. I let my sorrow consume me...and now, I'm even better than before."

Nadeline glared at her. "I believed in you, I believed you would not give in to the darkness," She snapped. "What a fool I was. The only weak one between the two of us is you."

Emiri didn't like that, and while her expression didn't change, the fact that she pushed back harder definitely gave it away to Nadeline. "Shion couldn't hold me! Aloa couldn't cleanse me! What makes you think a spoiled princess like you has any way over me?!" Emiri growled, annoyed as she sent Nadeline's blade to the ground. The princess was caught off guard, and would come to regret it as Emiri would kick her square in the stomach. That wonderful feeling of losing all the air in your chest following shortly afterwards, though Nadeline threw herself to the side to avoid Emiri's dark blast. Scrambling to her feet, she barely dodged the first strike, but was unlucky with the second, letting out a cry of pain as Emiri's sword sliced through her arm. The brunette shoved her to the ground, a rather condescending look on her face as she watched the princess. "Oh Prince! Your damsel awaits you! Ride in on your horse in shining armor as you always have!" She called out to Wesley, pointing her sword at Nadeline, though she gave her a dark look. "It must be so nice to always have a hero there, waiting until just the right moment to come in and sweep you off your feet."

Nadeline managed to prop herself on her elbows, matching Emiri's stare. "And what of your prince? Have you forgotten about Jaakuna?" She asked.

For just a second, Nadeline though she had gotten through to her, though Emiri burst out laughing. "You want to know something? Just last night, he said 'I won't leave you', even after he had abandoned me before! And what was the first thing he did after that?" Emiri shook her head, letting out a sigh. "But I've learned my lesson. I won't sit around waiting for his return. That damsel in distress is dead. Only a witch remains in her place," Emiri replied quite bluntly, raising her sword above her.

Now it was Nadeline's turn to laugh, causing Emiri to hesitate. "I'm glad you've said that. Now, I won't hesitate to strike no longer," She stated, holding a hand out as a glyph appeared beneath her. Emiri immediately jumped out of the vicinity, sword at the ready as Nadeline would pick herself up, her hair and clothes swaying as the wind surrounded her. "I heard your thoughts, I saw what you did. And I know that you aren't angry at all. Worry not, for I will free you!" She announced, Ultima's symbol on her hand glowing.

Keiran peered at the princess. Oh, that can't have been a good thing, especially with all that pure Mist roaming around her. Was she going to unlock her Seal as well? That could potentially bring a problem to the table. He bit his lower lip, deep in thought. Perhaps this had been his master's true intentions? No doubt the prince was finishing up with the beast, and would come after him next. He closed his gray eye, leaving only his red eye open, his hand under his chin thoughtfully.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Reia didn't like where this was going, not one bit. She listened to Jaakuna as she sat, her chin high as she would bring her usual air of grace. Still, there was no hiding any of what Jaakuna mentioned, and it actually made her nervous. No, she was already nervous; treading on the grounds of another country wracked her nerves more than she wanted to admit, and this simply proved to shake her up moreso than usual. Letting out a small sigh, she would look at Jaakuna pointedly. It wasn't that she blamed him per se, but if soldiers were to suddenly come in and assassinate them all, it would be his fault.

Lorenzo, on the other hand, didn't seem as concerned as Reia or Jaakuna. He was pretty relaxed all things considered, humming a low tune quietly as he would tap his knee. He knew Reia was nervous, but he figured paying no mind to it would help rather than harm. If he would try to assuage her, it would simply feed into her fear. He did, however, let out a loud yawn, instead deciding to focus on Jaakuna.

"Hopefully we'll hear something soon, getting bored," He admitted rather nonchalantly, and Jaakuna would see where Nadeline would get it from.

---

The what now?

It was public knowledge that Emiri and Grant were once betrothed, though he couldn't fathom how Frost knew all those details. It did shock him, but Grant remained at the ready. Yes, he knew a lot, but what was he really after? It was clear now that he almost wanted them there, but for what purpose? Had they run into a trap? Or was it just coincidence? It had to have been something else--especially when the topic of Zodiark came up, though their questions would much too quickly be answered, and Grant's face hardened as she would walk in through the door, waltzing around, parading herself.

Damn snake.

Grant had half a mind to smack her hand away, though it was out of growing up better that it didn't happen. He stared at Levi with cold eyes, though he would let out a scoff as she would mention him being glad to see her. "Who wouldn't want to see the very snake that had left him for dead at the hands of an enemy Empire?" He asked, sarcasm dripping with every word as he would take her hand and softly push it away from his face. For just a split second, he had to tear his eyes away from her lips, and he felt ashamed to do so. Stupid woman and her stupid seductiveness. "Though I fear the thrill is completely one sided. I admit my surprise at seeing you of all people here, though I'm not surprised to see you under Zodiark--or is that only until you find something better?"

---

Keiran clucked his tongue in disapproval, a finger on his lower lip as he eyed the couple before him. He didn't like the look of Wesley's magicks, nor did he want to see them in action. How should he go about doing this? Keiran preferred strategy over battles, though hedoubted Wesley would let him sit on the sidelines while Emiri would battle them both. Speaking of the girl, he wasn't quite sure if she would be able to do combat with an ally. Was this what his master also desired to see? If that was the case, then Keiran needed to do his part as well. Nodding to himself, he looked over at the brunette, who hadn't taken her eyes off the pair.

The boy leaned over, an arm over her shoulders as he pulled her to him. "Come now, Your Highness, this girl doesn't want to fight!" He said, comforting Emiri. "She just wants you to understand her sorrow, is that too much to ask?"

To his surprise, Emiri would pull herself away from him, an uncharacteristically angry look on her face. "They don't care about my pain. So long as they get to live in their 'Happily Ever After', everything else is just an afterthought," She said, darkness seeping out from her. "As long as they're happy, why would they give a damn about anything?!"

Nadeline actually took a step back. The darkness was coming from Emiri? No, it couldn't be! But it was true, and Nadeline witnessed it firsthand. Keiran let out a chuckle as he would step back, seemingly falling, but instead he would sit in midair. He would snap his fingers, a great pool of darkness forming behind Emiri. A giant claw would reach forth and grab the ground, pulling itself out of the darkness and revealing itself. It let out a rather loud, ear-piercing roar, flapping its wings as it would take to the sky. Emiri herself would summon her sword, her clothes changing into her rather flashy and rather revealing set, and she would hold her head high, her crown glinting in the sunlight.

There was no time to hesitate as the creature would roar once more, swinging its claw and sending out a literal wave of darkness. Nadeline leapt over it, charging her sword with magick as she would run towards Emiri. The brunette had a rather wicked grin on her face, bringing her blade down as Nadeline would swing, and their weapons would clash and erupt, darkness versus fire. Nadeline skidded backwards from the explosion, though she would jump back as Emiri emerged from the explosion unharmed, swinging her blade with such a force that the darkness left behind a trail with every swing.

If I keep her occupied long enough until Wesley can make a decisive blow, we may have a chance, She told her Esper as she would parry an attack and go for the counter, though she was dismayed when Emiri dodged it with ease. She let out a gasp as Emiri lunged at her, her sword barely missing her face, and she stumbled slightly. If she doesn't slice me to ribbons first, that is.