Hero

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

"At least he knows how to cut a clear path," Shion commented as the pair sped off. "You can't say he doesn't know how to entertain."

Meanwhile Emiri struggled to keep up with Jaakuna, their advancement at a rather alarming speed. She sent hurried apologies to whoever was unfortunate enough to get in Jaakuna's way. There was no stopping him once he started, and when he did stop, she was shocked when he would take her into his arms and immediately continue at an inhuman speed. She let out a less heard squeal of delight, hanging onto him tightly. Archades passed them in a blur, and before she knew it, they ran straight through the door, and she erupted into laughter.

Roman hadn't heard the warning until it was much too late; gone were his organized stacks, gone was any sense of dignity, flown out the window as he helplessly watched his piles scatter onto the floor. He let out a cry that could be mistaken for one of pain, reaching out as if he could somehow rectify the situation with willpower. But it was much too late, no, it was a doomed cause for which he could never recover. How cruel, what had he done to deserve this? He had just been getting in the groove, surely in a manner of hours he may have hoped to put a dent into things? But gone was that hope, gone...all gone...

As Emiri had finally gotten on her feet, sharing Jaakuna's grin. As she was about to reply, she let out a rather alarmed yell as Jaakuna was sent flying. It was then she remembered where she was, giving Roman a rather sheepish, apologetic look. "R-Roman! I mean, Emperor, it's good to see you!" She hastily gave him a greeting, bowing deeply. "Please excuse the intrusion! We have come to see that the treaty be completed!"

Ah yes, the treaty. Roman would stand, dusting himself off. "A pleasure as always, Miss Iniko," He greeted her cheerily, regaining a majority of his composure, though as his glance went to the fallen paperwork, it looked like he wanted to cry. "Your very presence brings a new light to this place."

---

Grant had to hold in his chuckle to the best of his ability. He had almost forgotten that Wesley knew how to play the game just as well the older gentlemen did. At that point he would lean back in his chair more comfortably, though still alert and attentive. Leblanc seemed to squirm in his seat, not having expected such a swift response from Wesley himself. Arcturus seemed to hold steady, though Grant wasn't surprised--out of all the council members, Arcturus was the most experienced. Despite the way he came off, he out of all of them held Rozarria's best interests, even if it came out the wrong way.

This time, however, DeVainos would chose to respond. "Of course, Prince Wesley. Foreign partners are not an uncommon prospect. But with the recent death of Augustus, Rozarria would do well to stay within her borders, at the very least until its family is once again prosperous," He would explain respectfully. "Roland has stained the Roselia name, and Lorenzo outright refuses the throne. Both Nadeline and Grant are looked to for our future, and it is quite shocking they would go and make these decisions very suddenly. Perhaps if only one had--for example, if only Nadeline had made her intentions clear, we would rest easy knowing we have Grant for Rozarria. But admittedly, knowing Grant wishes to make an Archadian his bride..."

"To be quite frank, it's a dilemma." Arcturus stated. "Our princess wishes to marry a Dalmascan, but will go to him rather than stay in Rozarria--especially with a child on the way, more reason for her future king, whose claim includes a future heir for the Alexander family. Our prince wishes to wed an Archadian--the same prince that will likely be our choice of Emperor. We cannot lose them both."

Nadeline tried to remain calm, though Wesley's words gave her courage. As she moved to speak, however, Grant would then lean forward, catching their attention. "Tell me something." He said, his expression curious. "You state it is because you fear our loss. Is it that you fear the Roselia family's power will fade? Or is it that another family wishes to take the throne, and this is not something you want?"

"Well...if we go down the line, I suppose Duke Herman and the house of Juniper would be next..." Leblanc said. "Although they are more focused on the market, looking more for personal profits as opposed to profits for all..."

"Herman is ten years Grant's senior, and Duchess Fiona remains without children for half of that," Aurelio reminded them. "If Nadeline is to bear a child, why must it be an Alexander? Why not continue the Roselia name?"

"I suppose that's a point..." DeVanios seemed to agree.

They seemed fixated on Nadeline's future child, much to her dismay. She looked over at her parents, noticing Lorenzo's scowl. She was surprised to see her mother's sadness--she was probably disappointed in her. Nadeline looked away, though she heard Grant let out a sigh. "I think Wesley would certainly want his future wife and child to have his name. Do you think he will just abandon them?" Grant asked, feigning ignorance. "What an assumption..."

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Can you hear me?

You again?

Ah, you remembered. Good. Nice to see you in one piece. But we have a lot of work to do, don't we?

Work? What? Who are you? How do I know I can trust you?

Yes, work. Everyone else has surpassed you. It's about time we caught up! And I'm--

The sensation of falling seemed to wake her up before hitting the floor did, resulting in a yell of terror. She let out a low groan followed by a whine as Jaakuna would pick her up by her arms. She was momentarily dazed, though a hand was on her nose, wincing from pain. She almost forgot where she was for a moment, Jaakuna's words clearing her mind. There was that voice again, though it spoke a lot more than it did before. She crossed her arms, trying to match the voice with anyone she knew, but she couldn't quite put her finger on it. It was the same voice that had confirmed Zodiark in her dream, but for some reason, she was perfectly comfortable with it. But who was it?

After a moment, Emiri looked at Jaakuna, as if wanting to say something. "Honestly...this trip makes me miss the Ifrit," She admitted, changing her mind about telling him at the last second. "It was a lot faster, too."

---

Grant patted the dozing Lorenzo's shoulder once, signaling their arrival. The man groaned something about needing more rest, though the moment he realized they had arrived, he sprung to life once more. Grant had to admit he wished he had a little of Lorenzo's spirit--he seemed very excited to be back in Stigma. It was likely his enthusiasm to see Karolina again, though it just made Grant slightly more regretful. He should've accompanied Savayna, but he had his own business to attend to. Still, distance makes the heart go fonder, and as the pair met up with Wesley and Nadeline, he noticed her fidgeting slightly. She had changed into something more appropriate, though it was obvious that she wasn't used to such a flowing dress. Likely, she was trying to hide her figure--and it was then Grant knew exactly what Nadeline was going to do. He gave Wesley a sympathetic look, and together, the group would go to the castle.

To his relief, the city had been let off with minimal damages. The soldiers were busy at work, but the civilians were doing their part as well. Some of them would greet the group before continuing on their way, bringing Grant joy he didn't know he had. He was worried when Aloa informed them that the cities had been attacked, but it seemed they handled themselves just fine. He let out a sigh of relief, though an equal sense of dread took him for a moment. He wasn't sure why, but it was likely due to Nadeline's announcement. He was probably going to hear it from...everyone. 'How could you let your niece do something like that under your watch' or 'The dignity of the princess stolen under her nose'! Gods, he wasn't looking forward to this. At all.

They entered the castle easily, at which point Nadeline would take the lead. She was nervous, but she hid it rather well, all things considered. That, and everyone's attention would likely turn to Lorenzo, who apparently couldn't stand to be away from his wife for another second. "Oi! Mariano! Where's Karolina?!" He yelled out to a servant, his voice slightly more demanding than usual.

"Welcome back, Your Highness," The servant greeted him, seemingly used to Lorenzo's wildness. "Lady Karolina is on her way to meeting with the Council. Shall I inform her of your arrival?"

"Meeting? Without us? Pshh...assholes. Nope, we're going there now," Lorenzo said, motioning for the group to follow. "This is probably what Reia was afraid of, and another reason I need to stay here. They're probably all hatching their own plans, passing shit without opposition..."

"Karolina knows at least how to stall," Grant said, frowning.

Nadeline exhaled, though as they came to the door leading to the Meeting Room, she gave Wesley an apologetic look. "Time to face the music," She mumbled, pushing the doors open.

There sat four older gentlemen, completely silent, though all equally surprised at the group's arrival. "Your Highnesses! You've returned!" One exclaimed.

At the same time, Karolina had arrived, equally as surprised. "Lorenzo--!" She didn't even get a chance to properly express herself before literally getting swept off her feet by her husband. "Goodness!" She giggled, clearly happy to see him again.

"How could I go another minute without you?" He asked, grinning widely as he put her down.

"We were going to meet about...well, it seems you have something more important," Karolina was surprisingly astute, though she smiled warmly at Wesley. "It's wonderful to see you again, Wesley."

"Wesley? Of Dalmasca?" Another councilman questioned.

Nadeline clapped her hands together. "Be seated, please, I have an announcement to make," She implored everyone. As they did, all eyes were on her. It was somewhat unsettling, though she had little choice. "Before I begin, I would like to formally introduce His Highness, Prince Wesley Alexander of Dalmasca. Wesley, these are four representatives of our Council--Arcturus, Aurelio, Leblanc, and DeVanios." She would introduce them, and only then would she decide to unveil her announcement. "I've come here today to officially withdraw myself as successor to the throne."

"What? Truly?" DeVanios asked, shocked. "This is quite sudden."

"I assume this coincides with Prince Wesley's arrival?" Aurelio asked, a suspicious look on his face.

Karolina frowned, though Lorenzo took her hand in his, as if assuring her. Nadeline would nod once, and continue, "It is a decision I did not make easily. I assure you, I weighed every possible outcome, though as you've suspected, it...does have to do with Prince Wesley," She stated. "As of this moment we are engaged--he has proposed marriage to me, and I accepted."

The four men looked at one another, concerned. "With all due respect, this is usually something that is discussed between members of the royal family," Aurelio said slowly. "While the prospect of unifying Rozarria and Dalmasca is one that will lead to much prosperity, it could quite possibly send the wrong message to Archadia."

Grant cleared his throat, deciding to help Nadeline out. "We--uh, excuse the voice, it's...complicated--we understand the implications, and have been working extensively with Prince Jackson Darcone and Emperor Roman. As a gesture of peace, Her Highness Cassandra is being offered in place, as you know the treaty between the three nations is also a symbol of this." He said.

Leblanc let out a sigh, placing his hands on the table. "We are aware that that is the reason our Empress is far from home. Though...you must know we have also come to a decision on our current succession crisis. Admittedly, this changes things," He told them. "While we appreciate you going out of your way to ensure peace and creating a relationship between the three countries, the fact of the matter is that Rozarria is--technically--without a ruler. We named Reia Empress after the death of Augustus out of necessity, though we have learned that she is not fit to rule."

"As Lorenzo refuses to take part, that would lead to Princess Nadeline's ascension. Of course, with this news, things change once more..." DeVanios added. "If Nadeline is to be wed to Dalmasca's prince, then that leaves Grant as next in line. It's...somewhat unconventional."

"Well, having Grant as ruler would be beneficial. Though it would lead to the question as to who to marry him to," Aurelio said. "His marriage to a commoner is no more at his request, but perhaps the daughter of Baron Timothy, or Duchess Jessibel?"

And now to really throw the oil onto the flames. "I've laid my heart out to another," Grant told them, bracing himself for the backlash. All four men seemed unsettled by this, but Lorenzo would nod at him. Still, Grant had to tell them the truth. "...to an Archadian General by the name of Savayna Glacie..."

Suddenly, it felt like the spotlight was thrown onto Grant. The conversation was getting out of Nadeline's hands, and she summoned all her willpower to make sure it didn't get derailed. "That being said, we have laid out our future. We hope to gain your support," She told them.

"Both of them marrying outside of the country, how will our noblemen take this?" DeVanios asked, worried.

"They'll be outraged." Arcturus was more blunt about it. "To think an Archadian becoming the wife of our emperor...our princess handed off to another country without any sort of warning..."

"We mean no offense," Nadeline quickly said. "Among other reasons..."

Karolina's expression went from confused to shock. Unfortunately, it seemed Aurelio had also picked up the cue. "Other reasons? Marriage between nobility has no other reasons other than something to gain from their nations. Or...Are you bearing a child?" He asked her, eyes narrowed.

"This is an insult to the highest caliber!" Leblanc gasped. "How could this have happened?! Who is the father? Is it Wesley? Some other man?"

Nadeline's eyes widened, though she immediately recovered, gaining a second wind. "Do not think me some common whore! Remember who it is you are speaking to!" Her words had all the weight of her birthright behind them, silencing everyone at once. Once she had gotten the reigns of the conversation once again, she would continue. "I have always acted with Rozarria's intentions in mind. With Jackson's treaty, our reign will be one of peace. Marrying Wesley is a step in the right direction, and I am willing to forsake my homeland, to leave and ensure that we prosper together!"

Arcturus nodded. "Rozarria's very heart lies with you, Your Highness," He told her. "But you must understand our position as well. Marrying out of love is a fantasy people in your role dream to have."

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Emiri visibly twitched at Wesley's statement. So even back then, Cassandra had figured out that it was Jaakuna, huh? She let out a small, evil sounding chuckle, though she plastered on a smile. "Good thing that's not something we need to worry about. Right?" She looked at Jaakuna, and from the outside, it seemed innocent enough, but the reality was that it was a rather unsettling look. The girl wasn't afraid to remind the princess exactly who she was messing with. "And no worries, I can easily remind her as such since we're going together anyway."

Lorenzo ended the conversation with a rather loud yawn, though he would stand. "Right then! So you'll be letting me borrow your vehicle again, right, Jaakie?" The man grinned at Jaakuna, causing Nadeline to look at him suspiciously. "I'm more than certain I can make it go even faster than before! I got this neat idea where if I charge it with lightning--"

"No!" The princess immediately protested. "We can go by airship and get there just fine!"

"Aw, come on! We got here pretty quick from Archadia, and besides, you'll end up going from Stigma to Archades by ship," Lorenzo pointed out, nudging Grant.

"It would mean we would return faster," Grant agreed with Lorenzo.

"And if we become unstable we can die in a fiery crash!" Nadeline refused.

Aloa ignored the conversation, nodding at Shion. Once the woman returned the gesture, the viera would depart without another word. As Nadeline continued to argue with Lorenzo, Emette would choose to do the same, following the viera. Emiri would then stand, walking quickly to catch up with them. "We'll meet again, won't we?" She asked Emette.

The white haired girl stared at Emiri for a moment. "Why are you looking at me like that?" She asked as Nadeline whined in response to Grant's reasoning. "Although...I suppose before I go, I should give you a fair warning."

"What is it?"

Emette let out a small sigh, though she looked at Emiri seriously. "The more you try to fight it, the worse it will get. The more you try to deny yourself, the more you try to shut out your powers, you'll find yourself buried in self doubt. Shion will try to show you the way, but heed my advice; embrace it. It's just as much a part of you as your heritage is." Emette informed her quietly.

Easier said than done, The brunette couldn't help but think, though she nodded. "I appreciate it."

"And..."

"And?"

Blue eyes examined Emiri for a moment, though she closed them. "It's nothing. Until next time, then," Emette stated, turning on her heel as she would follow Aloa out.

"I'm just saying it's more practical," Grant had said, shaking his head, informing Emiri that the conversation was ending.

Taking in a deep breath, she rejoined the group. "I guess it's time we headed out, too. I'm sure Roman would like to be informed of what has happened," She said.

"Indeed," Shion agreed as she would stand.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Nadeline rolled her eyes at Jaakuna, disapprovingly. "If that isn't a resounding 'yes', then I don't know what is," She said as she would once again cross her arms. "Considering your tendencies for destruction, I can't say I'm entirely surprised. Honestly, what reason could you have had to cause such a mess?"

Emiri thought long and hard, wracking her memory. "Oh, I think it was to get away from his 'crazy ex-wife'!" She remembered excitedly, though her enthusiasm fizzled. "That reminds me, I never got paid for my cactuar flower..."

Shion raised her eyebrows. "Those are quite worth a pretty gil."

"Yeah, I told them to meet me at the Sandsea with the payout, but then he showed up!" Emiri defended herself, pointing at Jaakuna. "He suddenly showed up in my room! It was actually kind of scary..."

"I remember our first meeting. You had jumped down several floors from a hotel in Bhujerba, and his words were quite crass," Nadeline said, piling onto Jaakuna.

"I was kinda jealous 'cause you were going around Ivalice with my fiancé," Grant's muffled addition of his first impression of Jaakuna came out, though he would raise his head. "In all fairness, I wasn't exactly a good guy at the time."

"Jaakuna was crass, but deep down, he still had that kind heart of his," Emiri grinned.

"Isn't this the same one that tried to kidnap you?" Shion couldn't help but ask.

"Kidnap? What?" Grant was surprised.

"It wasn't a kidnapping! It was a romantic escape!" Nadeline gushed, completely changing her tone. "They were so in love with one another, and rather than hand her over, he decided to flee with her off into the sunset!"

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Nadeline patted Grant sympathetically, clearing her throat to get attention. She decided the group had enough of enjoyment out of his expense, and so decided to bring back the topic at hand. "So then, what will you do?" She asked Grant gently, giving him her full attention.

"I'll go home, lock myself in the castle chapel, and pray until my voice comes back," Grant's muffled reply came out from his arms. "If the gods have any mercy, I'll either get it back or die praying."

Lorenzo snickered, though this time Nadeline gave him a swift whack upside his head, and he yelled in protest. "We will go to Stigma, then. And the rest of you?" Nadeline asked, ignoring her father's grumbles.

"I'll go with Jaakuna to Archades." Emiri said immediately.

Emette stayed silent, though she looked at Shion, who seemed very interested in the dismayed Grant. "I suppose...I will go to Archadia as well," She said, folding her hands on her lap neatly. "I should check in with Francis. And..." She looked at Emette, who would shrug. "For the moment, I will leave things in your hands."

"You will accompany me, then?" Aloa asked Emette.

"Yes."

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

"So you did do it on purpose!" Nadeline couldn't believe Lorenzo. "That's going too far!"

"You can still bake a cake without flour. It's trickier, but it can still be done," Lorenzo finally got up from the ground, frowning at Nadeline. "The point of the magicite was to emulate his voice, not to give him a voice the way you would give one to an AI. That's essentially the entire point of the collar. Since his lack of voice wasn't cause by sickness or a physical ailment, I went under the assumption that it's probably magical or mist-based. That in mind, I did make adjustments to accomodate the higher pitch, but this threw me off guard, too." He reminded both Savayna and Grant. "That being said, it's a hell of a mist that's blocking his voice. The short of it being that I anticipated such a block--but I never imagined this to be the result. I'd estimate it would probably take about maybe ninety eight Sonosis Magicites to get him down to his usual, much deeper voice."

Shion seemed entirely amused, though something Lorenzo said caught her attention. "Mist-based...I see." She said, seemingly understanding something.

Emiri thought to herself for a moment. "So, if I understood all that, what you're saying is that without your adjustments, it could have been worse?" She asked.

"He probably would've made a chipmunk embarrassed," Lorenzo grinned.

Grant let out another groan, burying his head in his arms.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

"As much as I love the adventure, I'm pretty sure my perfect, patient, prodigious pretty wife has her own delicate hands full," Lorenzo said in response to Wesley's question, winking. "It's about time I headed on back, I'm pretty sure the Council's gonna grill me on why I've been away for so long since Reia's been handling all the heavy duty stuff."

Grant was surprised, though he wasn't sure on his own action. Nadeline would instead be the next to speak, "I will accompany my father back to Stigma. Once I know my mother is safe and sound, I can meet up with everyone," She announced. "There are a few other things I'd like to make sure of as well."

Shion was certainly glad she didn't have to play the political game, simply listening as she would take a sip of water. Aloa chuckled, as if reading her thoughts, though she would look at Grant. "I wonder, will my lord do the same?" She asked him, curious. "You seem troubled."

"It would make sense..." He said with a small shrug.

Shion nearly choked on her drink. "What in the--what happened to your voice?" She asked as Lorenzo would burst out laughing, realizing this was the first time Shion would hear Grant's new voice. Nadeline would be equally surprised, though she gave her father a disapproving look.

"Oh, yeah, I forgot to ask that, too." Emiri remembered, looking at Grant innocently. "Why do you sound like a girl?"

"A girl is putting it nicely, he sounds rather shrill," Shion said, flabbergasted. "I can't say I like it, your voice was perfectly fine. Unless you're making some...other changes? Then I wish you well on that path."

Lorenzo howled with laughter, nearly falling off his chair. Grant groaned, though he had enough, shoving Lorenzo off his seat. "I'm not like this because I want to be!" He stated as Lorenzo would continue laughing on the floor. "It's either this or not being able to talk at all!"

"You chose...poorly," Aloa chuckled.

"Yeah, I don't...it's rather jarring..." Emiri admitted.

"Did you do this on purpose?" Nadeline demanded to know, hands on her hips as she glared at her father.

"That's the best part! It wasn't even intentional!" Lorenzo said between laughs.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Considering the fact that their last meal was here, once again, the feeling on unease seemed to grip Emiri tightly. There was no convincing her otherwise; much had happened. As they entered the Grand Hall, she was slightly surprised to see Shion up and about, delicately dabbing a napkin to her lips. All things considered, the woman was relatively calm, simply sparing them a passing glance as they entered. She didn't really react until both Aloa and Emette approached her, to which she would place her napkin over her lap.

"The Prodigal Son returns in one piece. Seeing the Serpent and living is quite a feat--and I do mean both serpents," She stated to the group warily. "So Zodiark roams Ivalice in Levi's skin, I admit, she certainly slithered out of the cracks."

"More like oozed, but yes," Emette sighed. "I must ask for your forgiveness for my failure."

Shion's amber eyes examined Emette. "It's impressive enough that you still remain among us. I can assure you, Levi gaining Zodiark changes nothing--"

A pair of heels clicking the ground interrupted Shion, an exasperated Nadeline running in. "I came--as quickly as I heard--goodness, what a crowd," She began, noticing everyone gathered up. "Aloa, you've returned to us?"

"Yes, Highness. Forgive the intrusion," Aloa stated.

Nadeline shook her head, though her eyes landed on Emette, who crossed her arms. "Emet-Selch?" She asked, a hand on her chin. "But..."

"Color me impressed. I always knew you had a talent for detecting magicks," Emette replied in earnest. "However, much has happened that we all need to discuss."

This time, Shion scoffed. "Only one thing has happened: Zodiark's freedom. I'll be blunt: we failed. However, I don't think sitting around waiting for either Levi or Venat to strike would do us any good. We also need to go about fully purifying Miss Emiri before they come back for her."

Now it was Emiri's turn to scowl. "I'd appreciate it if you didn't talk about me like I'm some sort of tool. I'm right here--you can talk to me." She said.

"You'll have to forgive my phrasing, but as always, I like to get straight to the point," Shion was rather quick to reply. "I don't care how it happened, the fact is that what's done is done. I've done my best to sharpen Jaakuna as a weapon against Venat--it's about time the rest of you do the same. Even so, you're still a liability."

"Shion..." Emette said, shaking her head.

The woman sighed. To their surprise, however, Emiri was the one to speak, "No, she's right. But rather than point fingers, I want to make it so that I'm not a liability anymore. I want to be someone that can be counted on rather than the cause of misery. Gods know I've been on a streak of messes--even Levi said so," Emiri said, more determined. "I implore you for your assistance."

"That's the kind of attitude I can get behind. Good to see your confidence rising," Shion noted, pleased.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Grant rolled his eyes, turning to Jaakuna. “Admittedly, the conversation brought up a point I wanted to delve into,” He said, not wanting to get back into the seriousness, but it couldn’t be avoided. “Levi stated she wasn’t finished with Emiri--I dare to think that means she could come back for her.’

[color=ed1c24]”Not to mention what she said about you, Silent Knight.” Jaakuna said, chuckling, though instantly caught Grant’s scowl.

“I--listen, I shot her point blank several times, can we talk about that for a moment?” He stated, flustered at Jaakuna’s comment.

Sure thing, ser knight,” Jaakuna said, teasing Grant some more, though he would sigh, humming thoughtfully. [color=ed1c24]”Levi doesn’t do anything without a reason. Obviously we know why she made you think you had killed her.” Jaakuna regretted how well he knew her. “Though, since we’re on the subject, what did happen between you two? Why is she suddenly referring you as her ‘Silent Knight’?” Jaakuna asked totally serious.

“She kinda acts like a schoolgirl with a crush,” Lorenzo suddenly stopped crying long enough to make a statement.

”Ya know, despite how insane she is, I heard a rumor from one of my father’s associates that she’s a real freak in the sheets.” Jaakuna said, actually thinking about it, but he felt a hard hit from Savayna’s balled fist knock him forward. “Ow!”

“You’re an idiot you know that!” Savayna scowled, hitting Lorenzo in the nose.

“You know, Grant might be whiny, but he’s actually a good looking dude!” Lorenzo said as he rubbed his nose. “Tall, dark, handsome, rich, a prince of a nation...a lot of the maids loved to tend to him. If you get over his emoness he’s an okay guy to go after.”

And in response to that last comment, Savayna punched Lorenzo again, this time her punch would draw blood.

“Geez, touchy much?”

“Just shut up before I punch you again. Levi is not going to get with my--I mean Grant.” She quickly caught herself, though now she was starting to flush red. She turned around instantly no matter how conspicuous it may have seemed.

Grant couldn’t quite hide his satisfied grin, ignoring Lorenzo’s muttered protests. To his surprise, he watched Emiri approach him, hands on his face. A moment later, his nose was fixed. “You sure it’s okay to be doing that?” He asked her seriously.

“Yeah. I’m...relatively calmer now,” She admitted sheepishly, though she would then frown. “Actually, I’m sort of wondering what Levi is up to now. Why would she just leave? I figured her endgame is...well, killing us, so...where did she go?”

“That’s the million gil question, isn’t it?”

Jaakuna joked, though he was right. Leviathan was, if nothing else, an enigma. Her mind and actions she took always left people guessing. Anything she did just made the next one all the more bizarre. Why would she seize control of Zodiark and then not use him to wipe out all of her enemies? Why would she heal Emiri, someone she helped get her closer and closer to Zodiark? The more answers that seemed to be answered, the more questions became raised. And the more questions that came about, the more confusion took root.

“Don’t go overthinking it,” Emette suggested, trying to look stern despite her puffy eyes. “If there’s one constant, it’s that she does things for herself only. I’d wager her motivation to be something as stupid as simply wanting more power.”

“I don’t know...it’s also unsettling how quiet Venat has been,” Grant pointed out with a sigh.

With all of the chaos surrounding Zodiark and Levi, not to mention Lola and Keiran, both jaakuna and Savayna had completely forgotten about Venat and those who follow him even though they are the False Scions of Light. One would think that he’d be the first one to show his face or make his presence known, but Grant was right: Venat being silent through all of this was troubling to say the least. If he truly was planning something, then what he was doing was just as pressing as what Levi was up to.

“I think Emette is right, though,” Jaakuna admitted, “Overthinking it won’t do us any good. Besides, we need to decide something a little more pressing, albeit short term.”

“Decide on…?” Emiri asked, unsure where Jaakuna was going with this.

“Getting us some fucking grub. Transcending is tough on the body and I haven’t eaten anything since yesterday morning.”

The entire group stared at Jaakuna. “He really is an idiot, isn’t he?” Emette asked, breaking the silence.

”Yup.”

“Definitely.”

“Even I thought that was dumb!”

Emiri let out a laugh, though she would hug Jaakuna. “Maybe we should head back, I’m sure Wesley and Nadeline are wondering where we have gone,” She suggested.

“Not like I’m inclined to side with jaakuna about finding food, but Rabanastre is a long trek. At least half a day’s journey. We might want to rest up, perhaps get nourishment.” Savayna suggested, looking to Jaakuna. “I mean, the Garif couldn’t possibly deny sanctuary to Shion’s protege, now can they?” She nudged Jaakuna.

“I think he prefers his new title of ‘Transcended’,” Grant would correct her.

“Man, they could call him Queen if it means I can eat, I’m actually hungry!” Lorenzo grinned, earning him a whack from Grant. “Put that status to use!”

Jaakuna blinked at them as if he couldn’t believe what they were saying. “Do you guys really think they would do that for me--I mean us?” Jaakuna asked them. “The Garif are proud, traditional people. They would do that just because I’m ascended past mere Humes.”

Savayna wanted to knock his teeth in, but she could tell he was buying into his own hype. “Oh, absolutely.” To the others, she was patronizing him. To Jaakuna, she was feeding his ego. “Isn’t that right, guys?”

“The mighty ‘chosen one’ should have no issues with the sage Garif,” Grant decided to play along.

“Don’t forget us little people,” Lorenzo chuckled, rustling Jaakuna’s hair.

Emette kept a completely straight face, though she rolled her eyes. “I suppose our salvation does fall to you,” She mustered a compliment.

“Shion did say I was the only one who could stop Zodiark. So, maybe you guys are right.” Jaakuna mused thoughtfully, nodding as if he made a decision. “Very well, let us go to Jahara and let them bask in the glory of the Chosen One!”

And without even saying another word, Jaakuna led the march to Jahara, repeating the words “All hail the Chosen One!”

“This is the one you choose? Truly?” Emette couldn’t help but ask Emiri.

“We all get full of ourselves once in awhile, right?” Emiri responded cheerfully.

“I want you to know that I am rolling in my grave right now,” Emette responded bluntly.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

The battle between both Aloa and Sophia had, for all intents and purposes, been very one sided.

Sophia leapt back, narrowly dodging Aloa's claw, though she raised her orb, a bright light temporarily blinding her. She went in for a strike, only for Aloa to open her eyes, revealing a violet colored flow from one of them, and the viera would duck, coming up with a combination of kicks that sent Sophia flying. As Sophia fell, Aloa charged an attack, sending it towards her. In that moment, however, all was right in Ivalice, distracting the two of them. Sophia smiled, effortlessly blocking Aloa's attack and landing on her feet rather cleanly.

"What an obedient little distraction." Aloa stated bitterly, in disbelief that she completely fell for it.

"I admit, you're...quite talented," Sophia replied, slightly out of breath. "But I have done mine."

"Then this battle is pointless. Your master is a fickle one, it would seem," Letting out a breath, Aloa simply turned around.

"You would turn your back to an enemy?" Sophia asked, admittedly a little confused.

"You are not worth my time," The viera told her bluntly. "My attention is needed elsewhere."

---

"Wait, what about us?!" Lorenzo whimpered, watching everyone else make their own way up.

Grant looked at Alorenzo in disbelief, momentarily taken out of the danger by his lack of awareness. When Lorenzo caught his look, he shook his head at him as Zeromus chuckled, going up and floating ahead of the pair. Grant continued to stare at Lorenzo, his hand simply pointing up, the gravity shifting below them as they would appear to rise as well. At first, Lorenzo flailed helplessly, though he then realized it was due to Grant's magicks. "I mean, did you forget I specialize in Arcane Magicks, or...?" He couldn't help but ask him. "Gravity is literally my element of choice."

"Yeah, I completely forgot."

The prince simply let out a rather long sigh. Between Lorenzo's recurring stupidity and Levi's downright absurd levels of coddling him (Silent Prince?! Really?! What kind of bullshit was that?!) he decided that he had enough of today. He did notice the glaring exception of Keiran--who had no doubt disappeared with Lola--though he focused instead on getting Lorenzo (who wouldn't shut up about not understanding their lack of gravity) and himself to safety. They would be the last to get to the surface with Grant abruptly dismissing his spell. He landed on his feet, ignoring Lorenzo who landed on his face.

He watched Emette dismount Belias, though was alarmed when she fell to her knees. Emiri seemed completely out of it--despite being conscious, she looked dazed, her thoughts entirely elsewhere. For the moment, Grant would attend to Emiri, and upon closer inspection, realized she looked completely broken. Her eyes were definitely alive, she was alive, but she looked like the light was on with no one home. Emette looked away from her, regret written all over her face. Grant reached out for Emiri, though was surprised when she didn't even acknowledge any of them.

"To think this was the Leviathan's goal all along--I was blind," Emette would distract him for a moment, though she would at least stand. "Though a snake asking another snake for power isn't entirely farfetched."

Grant had a lot of choice words he wanted to say, but for the sake of keeping the group together, he said nothing. However, he did slightly slip up, giving Jaakuna a look. If they hadn't gone there, then... "What I want to know is how the hell Levi showed up without anyone noticing until the very last second," He said to the group as a whole.

"That chick is nuts, didn't you see how she manifested? She could've been waiting there the entire time, just...waiting..." Lorenzo offered what little her could, though it wasn't entirely out there to assume his guess could be correct. "Snakes are pretty patient, and sneaky, too."

"The entire thing was a setup. I'm useless," Emette sighed, shaking her head. "She went right through my seals, though I assumed the worst I never thought she would save Emiri. I wonder..."

---

"I told you that I would handle the paling myself, did I not?"

Nadeline had decided to follow Ultima purely out of spite. After she and Wesley would go their separate ways, she found herself tailing after Ultima, despite the Esper's very apparent displeasure. Honestly, the princess was simply being childish at that point, and would not go back no matter how many times Ultima instructed her to. All the way up to the rooftop, the two bickered between one another, until finally, Nadeline would put her foot down, refusing to budge. Ultima would rub her temples, feigning a headache--though Nadeline was sure doing a good job getting under her skin. "Truly, His Highness must have the patience of a saint to put up with your antics," She said outloud.

That he did, but Nadeline wasn't about to admit that to her. "I changed my mind," She stated simply, rapier in hand as she placed her free hand on her hip. "Considering my family specializes in banishing monsters from the city, I decided I'd make your respect me once and for all."

Now that was a laugh. "You're a pompous princess who simply cannot see the way of others," Ultima said. "We do not have to get along."

"No, we don't," Nadeline agreed, much to her surprise. "But seeing how Shemhazzai and Hashmaal are...the way they treat their chosen is vastly different from our own relationship. You may have granted me your seal, but it isn't enough. So I've decided if I cannot earn your respect through words, then action will have to do." She pointed her rapier to the side. "I will activate the paling. You sit there and watch."

Is that what she would try to do? "And when you fail--which you will, considering it takes several humes to even begin the enchantment--I will be here to correct your mistake."

"Should I fail, it means I have no place along my fiance and my friends. I will hand you over to Shion," Nadeline informed her, once again surprising her. "The end is near, whether we want to admit it or not. If I am not strong enough to protect my future city, then it means I have no place in it."

Ultima would not respond, though she nodded. Taking in a breath, Nadeline walked up to the crystal, tapping it once with her rapier. It would glow in response, to which Nadeline would then form Ultima's crown on her head. Turning to face the city, she held out her weapon, the wind picking up around her. Her rapier would fade, reforming as a staff, and Nadeline would raise it higher. She had to reach out to Ivalice herself, to go beyond just the castle. Further, further, she had to feel the world around her. It's like staring into the heart of the city, She couldn't help but note as the crystal would once again react to her.

She could feel the power coursing through her, but it was different somehow. What was it? Ultima's? Her own? She wasn't entirely sure, but in that moment, something else clicked. Opening her eyes, Nadeline would slam the end of her staff into the ground, a literal wave of holy magicks erupting into the air, forming a brilliant pillar of light. It would then bubble itself out in a single wave, effectively eradicating nearly every single monster of darkness and pushing back every one that hadn't been purified to well beyond the city's limits.

Nadeline's eyes were wide with surprise, her mouth slightly open. It wasn't that she didn't have confidence in herself, but holy crap, where did all that power come from?! She could hear Ultima chuckling behind her, and she turned around to face her Esper. "A little desire goes a long way," She stated as Nadeline's staff turned back into her rapier, her crown fading. "Feel better now?"

"Better? I feel like an entirely different person!" She stated, though she was still in shock. "I just...can't believed that worked! And the crystal..."

"Unused," Ultima confirmed her suspicion, tapping the crystal herself. "Your part is done. Run along, now."

As Nadeline opened her mouth to retort, the pair had felt something change in the air. Nadeline looked towards the plains, as if trying to look for something. "I just...got a terrible feeling..."

Once again, Ultima remained silent, though she would instead return to mist. Nadeline didn't bother asking her what happened, instead descending the tower, immediately heading to Wesley.