Altered Tundra

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

"Then I guess it's decided," Wesley announced, closing his eyes, and crossing his legs. As he would open them, he gave everyone a smile.

Each and every one of them had come so far. He still remembered the time that Grant had captured them for the reason of solely getting Emiri back. Though it felt like a lifetime ago, it was a simple few months of time that had passed. During that specific point in time, Wesley's father had just been murdered by Judge Ixion. Wesley could recall being more than simply furious at him. He wanted his head on a pike. He wanted to maim and make him feel how it was like to get your entire life taken away from you, but that was the anger he felt about losing his father so suddenly and how he wanted someone to hurt like he had. In the end, it didn't matter because he gained a perspective that not everyone's fortunate to receive. He did end up not only forgiving Ixion for his clouded outlook and pardoned him from the crime. Under the order of an even more troubled Vincent, who had been operating under the influence of both his misguided hatred for Jaakuna but also the distorted views bestowed upon him from Hamut.

As he thought about all of that and how everyone had suffered their fair share of pain that would otherwise make an average person take their own life, they've all proven to be strong individuals who have the strongest will to live that he had ever seen. All of them--even Aloa and Shion--went through their own respective ordeals. Wesley might not have known the specifics of some, but there was no denying that they carried painful memories. Just like Jaakuna, just like Nadeline, Grant, Savayna, and Wesley himself, those two were better for it. It's made them who they are today. As someone who was observant and noticed these things and having gone through similar strife, Wesley could tell that as being one with who knew pain.

"I don't know about you guys, but I'm going to take a commercial airship," Jaakuna admitted to the group. "There is no way I'm rested enough to drive."

"Yeah, you're reckless as it is," Savayna added, responding directly to Jaakuna.

"Look who's talking!" Jaakuna scoffed.

"Don't you go turning this on me. As I recall, back when you and Emiri here first met, weren't you the one who decided it was a brilliant move to use your Mist Knack to cause the entrance to the Garamsythe Waterway in Lowtown to cave in."

Jaakuna scoffed again. "You and I both know that the circumstances surrounding that are--"

"Wait," Wesley interrupted Jaakuna as he was about to speak. "You're the one responsible for that?" He asked, narrowing his eyes suspiciously at Jaakuna.

Just as Jaakuna was about to speak, his mouth betrayed him. Instead, he looked around the table for any kind of assistance.

I'm screwed, aren't I?

Better start praying to a god.

Jaakuna ignored Belias, though he would look at Wesley. He could never tell if the prince was ever mad at him or not because he had flawless poker face.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

If they thought the laughter would be contained, the mention about how Lorenzo could've made Grant sound worse than a chipmunk made everyone—even Wesley—burst into their own form of laughter. Jaakuna and Savayna had emulated Lorenzo's style of cackling as they weren't subtle about their raised, almost-cracking voices. As for WEsley and no doubt those who were more dignified, had gone into a muffled chuckkle. Though, Grant seemed to be the only one who couldn't find the humor in it.

"Cheer up, Grant!" Jaakuna patted Grant's shoulder, offering him a smile. "Take pride in that you sound like a chick and not some annoying little monkey--oh wait, that's how you usually sound."

And then the laughter continued!

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

"I must admit, it is...not something one gets used too easily," Wesley admitting, muffling his chuckle with his napkin.

Savayna couldn't help but mimic Lorenzo's laughter, although she didn't burst into a fit as large as he did but she did find the question on Nadeline's part intriguing. "Despite how hilarious it would've been to plan this, it certainly wasn't intended. The Sonosis Macigicite--"

"You aren't serious?"

Savayna looked at Jaakuna. "Yeah, that is what's allowing him to speak. Why?"

Jaakuna shook his head. "Sonosis Magicite is used to bring about the natural femininity out in a person. It's most commonly used in giving voice to female AI's. It's what is used for Iris." Jaakuna said, recalling how tedious it was to get a hold of that specific magicite. "Frankly, I'm surprised you would do this to him."

"I didn't know. I just saw it being mentioned on one of Lorenzo's blueprints. Besides, it's the goddamn mist that's making this dude sound like a lady."

"Well, all I know is that, primarily, Sonosis Magicite is used to give a voice to female beings." Jaakuna gave a shrug, going to his meal, not really paying any mind to what anyone else was thinking at the moment.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

As always, the Grant Hall and the food the palace staff prepared was always of the highest quality, though the conversation wasn't necessarily on par, not when it came to comfort levels, at least. Wesley did know that there was going to be a lot of uncomfortable moments. Considering how Jaakuna and Emiri went off on their own and the news about what exactly led to the saving grace of all of those monsters of darkness suddenly vanishing. Wesley felt a mixture of gratitude and dread for it. To think that Levi herself was the person to thank for both saving Ivalice from an unending slew of Zodiark's spawns, but it came at the cost of allowing her control of Zodiark.

And to make matters worse, Shion's rhetoric towards Emiri didn't help their case. It came as to no surprise to anyone at the table why she felt a certain way about Emiri's unique situation. Using such a word like purifying when referring to Emiri was, if nothing else, blunt. All knew Shion not be one to mince words, but Emiri would benefit from a different approach; that's what Wesley - and from the looks of it, Jaakuna and Savayna shared his opinion on the matter. But, as fate would have it, Emiri seemed to show more spunk and drive than Shion might've originally thought. There was almost an approving glance from Shion to Emiri (and likewise).

Wesley gave a cough, calling attention away from Shion and Emiri for a moment. "I do believe that we should carry our next order of business," Wesley stated, looking in every direction to everyone. "First off, I sent Reia and Cassandra to ARchadia before things here got too dire. In Jaakuna's absence, I thought it was best that they go ahead with preliminary treaty negotiations. I sent Cassandra in my stead."

"Do you think that was wise?" Savayna inquired, looking to Grant and Lorenzo. "It wasn't too long ago that the two were about to wage war against each other."

"Ah, yes I'm well aware of what almost happened. I assure you that Reia took care of it. Though she took the crass approach, Cassandra had become less of a problem since then. They will have no problem. I sent Alistair with them to make sure my sister doesn't cause any further stress." Wesley informed them, reaching down to his plate, and taking a bite of a potato. "I am sure, once everything settles, their talks will go on as originally planned."

"Well, that's a relief." Jaakuna let out a sigh of relief, feeling somewhat responsible for what happened earlier. "I am concerned about Archadia. In the same week, it has suffered two major blows. Roman is an outstanding man, but there's only so much he can do as Emperor. He's going to need all hands on deck."

"What are you suggesting?"

Jaakuna paused, hesitant. He looked at Emiri and then around the table. "I can't speak for all of you, but I plan on heading for Archadia as soon as I am able," Jaakuna stated as a matter-of-factly.

"I understand. you are obviously worried about your people and family. This might work out in our favor. With you there, the treaty might go along swimmingly. Plus, the presence of the rightful Emperor in Archadia would be good for morale." Wesley mused, eyes on Jaakuna.

He nodded, agreeing with Wesley's assessments.

"I suppose that poses the question about what everyone else will do?" Wesley would specifically focus his attention on the Rozarrians: Lorenzo, Grant, and his beloved, Nadeline. "I imagine you three are worried about Rozarria."

Naruto: Revival

^{Konohagakure | Chunin | NinTai-nin}

---

^{TIME: Present Day - Morning | LOCATION: Konohagakure - Forest of Death | INTERACTION: Woodworking Wonder@Reflection}

It was time to get the old train rolling. With the little amount of rest that they’d get in-between the exams, the team would face it head-on. Despite how the object of this current task was for it to be an old fashioned free-for-all, It would, at the least, be smart for them to stay together. Jaakuna knew there was strength in numbers and they’d probably be able to survive longer by sticking by each other’s side.

Yeah, that was a solid plan. Too bad Kiku seemed to have different ideas. Not that long after the official announcement, she used some sort of genjutsu that, for all intents and purposes, blinded her team just long enough for her to take off. Jaakuna was not the manliest when it came to darkness. As someone who thrived in the light, he didn’t handle it well, but it would not be like before, ya hear? Jaakuna might be a lot of things, but a consistent crybaby wasn’t one of them. At the very least, he would suck it up until light beckoned him once more.

After a few long moments, whatever kind of shit Kiku pulled soon faded away and Jaakuna was left with his newly-discovered partner-in-crime (so to speak). The two, no matter how unlikely of a pair they seemed to others, had something that worked. Kurin was the brains with a sturdy nature like the wood he commanded and Jaakuna was the quick-striking dancing man of fire and lightning that could handle most, if not all, enemies. Not exactly ideal or what one would expect, but they made it work for them.

“So now what?”

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

There was a time during the long night where the Dalmascans thought all hope was lost. The overwhelming threat of the shadow beasts proved to be too much. The Dalmascan Knights who had been mobilized from the generals and Wesley himself were being weighed down by the shear amount of their numbers and the sizes of some of the individual beasts. Even with the aid of the Whisperer, Bringer of Order, and the High Seraph, victory wasn’t guaranteed. It took the combined efforts of Hume and Esper to ensure that Dalmasca did its part in the Long Night.

But it wasn’t just in Dalmasca that fought for their survival. Archadia and Rozarria did as well. There was just as much of a presence from the Dark Spawns in Dalmasca as there were all over. No living life was spared from their clutches, but all living things had endured and they fended off the threat of evil the best that they could. Karolina and her army in ROzarria fended them off from the west of Ivalice. The center of Dalmasca did their part to extinguish the darkness, thanks in large part to Nadeline’s successful calling of the paling. North in Archadia had no worries. With the largest army and under rule of such a talented strategist such as Roman, not to mention the strongest collection of Judge Magisters since the days of Larsa the I, there weren’t any worries for anyone involved.

---

Walking around as the sun rose was a more pleasant experience than she would have anticipated. It was just before the day started, but right as the night ended, so even the nocturnal monsters had shuffled off to their holes to slumber, but the usual variety were not quite up yet. It was a rather quiet trek, occasionally broken with the group spoonfeeding Jaakuna’s ego (usually egged on by Savayna, despite Emette’s apparent reluctance) but soon, the entrance to Jahara was in sight. It was odd, they had spent all this time walking around, but she didn’t quite feel tired. Emiri edged herself closer to Emette,inspecting her carefully. They really did have a resemblance, which pleased her. Emette looked at her from the corner of her eye, though Emiri only smiled back.

As they approached the entrance, they would see a Moogle already at work, tending to the chocobos. A pair of Garif awaited them, stalwart as always, their eyes on the party as they would approach. At this point, Lorenzo nudged Jaakuna, motioning for him to approach them, “Go get us a meal ticket,” He told him, grinning.

“Right!” Jaakuna nodded with a gleeful smile. He walked over with his confidence as high as the sun overhead. “Hello, I am Jackson Darcone!”

The pair looked at one another for a moment, then back at the much-too-happy Jaakuna. “Darcone? You can’t mean…?” One seemed curious. “Kulumani, is this…?”

“The Blue Rose’s vagrant hope. The gods do have their sense of humor, it would seem,” Geomancer Kulumani chuckled. “These are allies, Hotonak. Tell us, O Transcendent One, what brings you to our humble lands?”

Grant wasn’t sure whether to be surprised or to cry. If Jaakuna’s ego wasn’t enormous before, it certainly would be now. Lorenzo snickered, and Grant had to nudge him to get him to stop.

Transcendent One? I like the sound of that. Jaakuna smirked, though heard Belias sigh. Ignoring him, Jaakuna looked at both Kulumani and Hotonak. “Yes, I am the Transcendent One! Shion, the Blue Rose has given me her Light. And I wish for me and my loyal subjects to have sanctuary in the Land of Jahara so we may rest up for the journey back to Rabanastre!”

That...that is a little much… Grant let out a groan, knowing for sure Jaakuna would get punished for his...ego. To everyone’s surprise, however, Kulumani ended up laughing--and not the mocking kind. “Your confidence is most assuring. And it pleases me to know her efforts were not in vain,” He would admit.

Emette was incredulous. They were actually treating him like a living god! She rolled her eyes, though she noticed Hotonak whisper something to Kulumani. Her eyes narrowed, though shortly after, she noticed more Garif across the bridge. For some reason, she didn’t like the look of that. She continued to watch them, sensing their uneasiness. Why? The way Kulumani spoke, they should have been thrilled at their arrival.

“We would be most honored to grant you sanctuary…” Kulumani started, though he seemed troubled. “Or...to grant it to most of you, that is.”

“Most of us--”

“Shush, Subject! Let your leader handle this!” Jaakuna said to Savayna, who seemed ready to pound him into the ground. He returned his gaze to the Garif. “Most of us?”

Grant had half a mind to hit him too, though it was then he noticed the gathering Garif as well. He nudged Savayna, motioning towards the other side of the bridge. Hotonak saw that, and turned around, traveling across to disperse the growing crowd. “My sincerest apologies,” Kulumani said. “We can tell you have awoken and taken your rightful place, though it...seems one of your entourage bears…his mark.”

Lorenzo blinked, confused. “His? He who?”

“Yeah, what’cha talkin’ bout, Willace?”

His mark...the realization hit Emette like a truck, confirmed when Kulumani would point. “She who carried his seed, who freed him from his prison--her mist is corrupted, her very skin stained with the markings of the Keeper of Precepts.” As the words left Kulumani, Emiri’s eyes widened.

“I understand,” Jaakuna nodded, turning to his group of loyal followers. His eyes scanned all of them from left to right: Savayna, Grant, Lorenzo, and then fell upon the mother and daughter. He looked at one of them. “I’m sad to say, but you cannot pass this point,” Jaakuna put his hand on her shoulder, “please don’t take it personally, Emette.”

Kulumani visibly hesitated, uncertain. Emette stared at Jaakuna, entirely deadpan. “You truly are an idiot,” She told him, swatting his hand off her shoulder. “If anything, I’m just as ‘divine’ as you are.”

“While true, you’re also a bitch like Zodiark. There is no other person who would be denied entry into the Holy Land.” Jaakuna stated sternly.

Grant rather quickly grabbed the back of Emette’s dress before she could jump him. She had a few choice words to say, all mumbled in a rather...violent matter, though the words ‘fucking moron’ were heard loud and clear. Lorenzo laughed nervously, just as unaware as Jaakuna, though he wasn’t sure how to bring it up. “So...uh...if not Em, then you mean…?” He asked, unsure.

“He’s talking about me.” Emiri figured she might as well bring it out in the clear, lest Jaakuna spend the next hour trying to figure it out.

Jaakuna let out a loud, over-the-top, gasp of complete shock, then he turned his attention to the Garif, irate. “This does not please the Transcendent One!” Jaakuna said with great rage.

“For the love of--will you get serious?!” Grant exclaimed.

Be quiet, Silent Knight! The Transcendent One is speaking!” Jaakuna snapped back.

“Someone else talk to him, he’s definitely not hearing me over his giant ego,” Grant sighed, motioning for one of the others to give it a shot.

“Oh Transcendent One..”

“Yes, my loyal sub--”

Before he even got that last word in, Savayna delivered a massive uppercut straight in his jaw, knocking Jaakuna out cold, his body making a noticeable thud on the ground. “Apologies, honorable Garif, but I’m sure you could understand why I had to strike the 'Transcendent One'. Now, please, explain to us what you meant before Jaakuna here got carried away.” Savayna respectfully requested of the two Garif.

“Guess we let it get too far, huh?” Lorenzo mused out loud.

“It unsettles our people,” Kulumani explained as Hotonak would rejoin them. “Please understand. We were recently attacked by his spawn. Of course, our warriors took up the challenge, but it left many wounded, and the young frightened.”

Savayna scratched her head, looking down at Jaakuna, then at Lorenzo. He seemed disappointed by the news. He had expressed a desire to eat, but it looked as though he’d have to wait a little longer. “If you don’t mind me asking, though, what did you mean by ‘spawn’?” Savayna asked the Garif.

Emiri shook her head, looking at the Garif. “I understand,” She told him. “Permit me the use of your crystal, I’ll be gone in an instant.”

“We appreciate it. And to answer your question, they were creatures created from Zodiark’s darkness,” Hotonak would answer Savayna’s question.

Dark creatures? “Not like...the ones we encountered in Archadia…?” Grant thought out loud.

Savayna raised her eyebrow. This took her by surprise, though perhaps that’s why she had an uneasy feeling. She knew it was more than just Levi. Added to that, it must’ve been the creatures of darkness. “Were you the only ones attacked by these spawns?”

“The attack was worldwide, and struck any place that had either living beings or a sense of civilization,” A familiar voice stated, coming from behind them.

Grant turned to see Aloa approach them, surprised. “This must have happened while we were in the mines,” He said, frowning.

Aloa ended up doing a double take, raising an eyebrow. “How amusing, Your Highness. Though I can’t say I prefer it to your old voice,” She mused, earning her one of his scowls. She would return to the subject, “You lot have caused quite a ruckus. I assume Zodiark was claimed, and ironically, it was that very claim that saved possibly the entirety of the civilized population.”

“You sound almost happy, so you mustn’t know who claimed him, then.” Savayna said, feeling a foreboding storm building in her stomach.

Aloa flipped her hair, giving Savayna a look. “I’m tickled pink that the Serpent managed to pull the wool over my eyes. Even a meaningless distraction was sent my way...I expected Venat, but not her. I jumped at shadows, not realizing until it was too late,” She stated, somewhat bitter.

“Aloa…” Emette felt guilty. “Forgive me, my power was not enough.”

“We can thank Nabriales for that, as she made sure your mortal one perished specifically so that Zodiark’s chains weakened,” Aloa rubbed her temples. Was she actually annoyed? “I thought her loyal to Venat, but...is it possible they work together? And yet I cannot confirm my suspicion.”

“Your guess is as good as any, not to mention that when Emiri here was more or less rendered unconscious, we thought, in the moment she had approached, she was going to kill her. We couldn’t do nothing about it, but instead she healed Emiri, albeit in a way that grossed me the hell out.” Savayna informed Aloa.

Savayna’s statement caused Aloa to give Emiri her attention. The brunette seemed surprised, though would look away, ashamed. “...it was not by choice,” Aloa stated, walking over to Emiri. She took her hand, extending her arm above her head. Before she could ask what Aloa was trying to do, she felt Aloa’s mist move, revealing several markings on Emiri’s arms. They were the very same ones that had appeared in the mines. “Levi accepted Zodiark wholeheartedly--nearly taking her life as a result. Even then, the ‘key’ still functions as intended,” Aloa explained as Emiri pulled herself away from Aloa, the markings vanishing. “Your connection to the Keeper of Precepts remains. Were Levi to decide to kill her, it would only serve to damage Zodiark’s power.”

But was that the only reason? “I have a feeling there’s more to that.” Savayna mused, “Aloa, you and Shion know Levi the most. I know you three, at one point, were aligned in similar goals. Did she ever give you any hints as to what she truly wants? She’s one to be overconfident when she suspects no one is onto her, so someone who is just as crafty and intuitive as her--someone like you--is bound to have some idea.”

“As I said, it’s the reason she didn’t take her life,” Aloa repeated herself, walking up to the Garif. “Forgive the intrusion, but I will be taking them with me now. Rest easy.” She told the pair, who would nod. She turned back to the group, her hand on her hip. “If I may be blunt? It’s all done for her own amusement. Someone who possesses strength such as she would easily get bored doing things the conventional way. You either die a hero, or live long enough to become a villain.”

“That...can’t possibly be it,” Emette stated.

“I can kind of buy into that theory. We’re talking about Levi. Batshit insane, orgasms with power Levi. I’m not striking it at least as a motivation,” Grant seemed inclined to agree.

“I sure hope you’re not trying to imply that Levi actually might be one of the good guys..” Savayna felt that anxiety further increase its hold on her gut.

“She ‘technically’ saved people by taking Zodiark…” Lorenzo reminded them.

“And need I remind you that she has betrayed, maimed, and pretty much made all of our lives a living hell. Not to mention how she paraded around Wesley’s Uncle Cyrus, and killed him shortly after marrying him.” Savayna would remind Lorenzo, not to mention everyone else who might’ve forgotten.

“Aloa...surely you haven’t come all this way without a reason?” Emiri asked, frowning.

Deciding not to tease the group any further, Aloa nodded. “Of course. I will take you all to Rabanastre--Shion should awaken at any moment now, and she and I have much to discuss with you--our near-equals,” She stated rather seriously. “It’s time we discuss our next course of action.”

“You sure you have enough magick to teleport us all?” Savayna asked Aloa.

Grant nudged Savayna, shaking his head at her. To his surprise, Aloa smirked at the blonde woman, extending her arm out. “Ye of little faith,” She stated airily, her glyph appearing beneath them. A bright light enveloped them, and when it faded, they were on the quiet streets of Rabanastre. “Remember who it is you question,” Aloa reminded Savayna, two pats on her head as she would turn and walk towards the castle.

---

Wesley had been thankful for the help of the Espers in the fight during the night, though he had wondered exactly why they all went up and disappeared without a trace or any warning. It was as though they had left just as out of the blue as they had arrived. If it was tied to Zodiark, then why did all of the beasts suddenly leave? Wesley wanted to know more, but he would be interrupted mid-thought by one of his Kingsguard.

“Apologies, Your Grace, but they’re back.” He informed Wesley of Jaakuna’s return.

“Very well. Please go inform Nadeline of their arrival. I’m sure she would want to hear their explanation as well, and send them this way.”

Wesley would greet their friends. “Welcome back. You gave us quite the scare.” Wesley said, seeing the group that had left walk in with the added bonus of Aloa and some other female he didn’t recognize.

“Yeah, sorry about that,” Jaakuna chuckled, giving Wesley a smile.

“I’m sure you have quite the tale, but you must be swamped. I’ll have the staff prepare us a meal. We’ll talk about last night’s ordeal over breakfast.” Wesley told them, guiding them to the Grand Hall.

Crooked Young - An Altered Lies Production

---

---

”You wanted to see me, sir?”

The chair turned around slowly, the person in it coming into Audrey’s line of sight. Of course, as they would, something the latina would notice right off the bat was it definitely wasn’t Philip Anderson, the Principal of Beverly Hills High School. The person in the chair wasn’t a 50something-year-old man with mostly a bald head where hair should be. This person wasn’t a white male with the appearance of a grandfather. This person wasn’t even a male. In his stead, was someone more aesthetically-pleasing to the eyes.

”I’m afraid I am not Philip, though I’m pleased to see that you thought I was.” Adrianna gave Audrey a smile, gesturing her to take a seat. ”Please, Miss Huntsberg, take a seat.” Adrianna said, bearing a calm, non-threatening smile.

Once Audrey had taken Adrianna on her offer to take a seat and once she became situated, the mother of Alexandros observed the girl. Her hazel eyes took in every feature that was on display for this young woman. She found her intriguing. Not like the usual brand of women that her son tended to associate himself with. Most of his conquests - as Ava put it - were either minimal in hispanic appearance or were caucasian. This one, however, was further from being white, this much was clear to Adrianna. Her round cheeks made her stand out. Usually full cheeks like that don’t necessarily attract handsome young men like her son, but Audrey makes it work for her. There was also a confidence about her that Adrianna felt was very similar to her own.

In taking the time to analyze her, Adrianna had been eerie quiet for a few minutes, though she smiled, making a sound of approval. “I do apologize, I should explain.” Adrianna offered an apologetic smile, “Philip owed me a huge favor for my last donation to the school, so I asked him to bring you to me so we could talk,” She stated, “I wanted to know exactly what it was about Arthur’s daughter that had such an effect on my son. You aren’t like most girls, so perhaps you could enlighten me how it is that my Alexandros, despite you clearly cutting ties with him, won’t let go.” She mused, giving Audrey a curious look.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

It only took a few moments for them to get through the hole in Henne Mines, which placed them just outside of Ozmone. The sky was breaking free of the darkness. Whatever had happened when they were gone deep underground, it seemed it was starting to pass. Jaakuna had no doubt that Zodiark’s freeing and then his merger with Levi had some kind of impact on Ivalice. He felt it when he was Lohgrif. He just prayed that everyone was safe. If not, then..

And as Jaakuna broke free of his dreadful thought, he heard the others talk about Levi. Levi...yes, it was strange to say the least. But, of the time he has known that woman, she never did anything without an ulterior motive. Her rise through the Imperial Army ranks was to become a Judge Magister. Her reaching that was to spy for Shion, and spying for Shion was to relay information back to Hamut. Everything, no matter how small or large, was always to further advance her own, sinister plans.

Jaakuna had to admit it, though. He was at a loss. Her helping Emiri came out of nowhere. What did she have to gain from doing that? No matter how grateful he is to her because of that, it just didn’t make sense. Venat took Emiri and allowed Jaakuna to rescue her because he wanted Jaakuna to lower his guard to him. Keiran appeared like an ally because he wanted to make them suspect what he was after and that was getting the real Zodiark to come into existence once more. But Levi helping Emiri wasn’t clicking. Something was obviously at play in her mind but Jaakuna couldn’t pick it out? It was like he was searching for a needle in a chrome-colored haystack.

”It just doesn’t make sense,” Jaakuna mused, though he still was in his own world.

“You think she was serious when she said it was for Grant?” Lorenzo couldn’t help but ask.

Grant scowled, not wanting to think of the implications. “Levi has always done things to further her own goal. If she wanted Emiri to live, I’d dare say she has a further use that we don’t know about,” He stated, immediately dismissing Lorenzo’s suggestion. Emette thought to herself for a moment, an answer on her lips that she simply didn’t want to admit. Grant caught her expression right away. “I can’t help but shake the feeling that you know something we don’t.” He told her.

Emette shrugged at him, a hand to her cheek. “I know a lot of things you don’t.”

“Out with it. You have to have some idea.”

“It’s likely the same reason the Blue Rose wanted to kill Emiri,” Emette replied rather quietly, shaking her head.”

“Right, so it’s the same old, same old: the evil bad guys want Emiri because of her powers.- we’ve always known that,” Savayna scowled, feeling like a broken record. “What they never tell us is why they want the power? Even if it’s a bullshit reason, they give us no clues. Honestly, they’re pretty horrible at this villainy job.” Savayna ranted, though she looked to Jaakuna. “What do you think?”

Jaakuna was silent, mumbling inaudible words.

“Hello! Jaakuna! Ivalice to Jaakuna! Do you copy?

Savayna grew irate after he didn’t respond, so she slapped him.

“Huh?” He said, not even registering the slap.

“Welcome back,” Grant said rather sarcastically. “We were discussing the enemy’s motives.”

Emette closed her eyes for a moment, though she would turn towards the dawn. “You’ve always known or guessed the first part,” She started slowly in response to Savayna, trying to choose her words carefully. “How strange, that a hume child would end up being a key to unlocking Espers, don’t you think?”

“And as a result, she gets the ability to warp time. We know this,” Grant said.

“No. Time manipulation was a result of the pact made with Chaos long ago, inherited from...her mother,” Emette showed she had zero desire to let Emiri know her identity--not at the moment, anyway.

“Yeah, let’s talk about that for a second. How does someone go from being such a uptight, pompous bitch--no offense--like Justine to someone like an Angel of Clarity?” Savayna asked, highly curious. “I remember Justine and boy she was worse than Reia. At least Reia had a reason being the way she was, but Justine was just cruel.”

“Savayna..” Jaakuna used a warning tone with her.

“I’m just curious is all. Emette here isn’t nearly as insufferable as I remember Justine being, not to mention the stories I’ve heard from not only you but Grant too,” she looked at him. “This might not be the right time, but hey! She opened the door, so why not?”

“As I said, I’m not Justine. Not anymore.,” Justine’s response was rather bitter.

“Well no shit. If you were, I reckon you’d never shut up.”

Emette was not amused by Savayna’s statement. “If we are going to be specific--and knowing how much your intelligence is shining right now, I fear I’m going to have to be--I said it before and I’ll say it again: Justine is dead. Her soul, however, isn’t--thus the appearance and knowledge I have. I told you before of my true identity as Emet-Selch, so if that isn’t simple enough for you, then you’re hopeless.”

“You say Justine is dead and yet,” Savayna smirked, “that’s exactly how Justine would respond. At least, what I remember from that one time I met her.”

“As much as it pains me to say so, Savayna’s kind of right.” Jaakuna relunctantly said.

“That’s because you’re an idiot, too,” Emette replied bluntly.

Lorenzo snickered for a moment. “I don’t think you’re helping your case there,” He pointed out, much to her annoyance.

Taking in a breath, she would do her best to explain--this time, going for the simpler route. “Just...okay, let’s go over the basics. The same way Jaakuna ‘transcended’ into Lohgrif doesn’t mean he’s actually Lohgrif. He’s still Jaakuna. Do you understand?”

Savayna remained quiet for a couple of moments, just letting the words sink in. After one more had passed, she finally spoke. “Yeah but Jaakuna, no matter if it’s JAckson or Lohgrif, isn’t the same, or did you not see how Scion-like he was against Zodimiri? And yet you’re just as bitchy and crude as Justine was.”

Grant could practically feel the hatred flowing off Emette. “And in my situation, it’s the other way around,” She tried oh so hard to stay civil. “Despite maintaining Justine’s soul, I am still Emet-Selch.”

“So, you’ve always been a bitch then?”

This time Grant cautiously stepped to the side, not wanting to get radiated by her anger in the process. “Yeah. Though I can see why, if she had to deal with the likes of you consistently,” She would state.

Jaakuna looked on, seeing that all-too-familiar gleam in her eye. It was the same gleam she had when she was about to say something that she was going to regret. He looked to Grant. Desperate, he would borrow Belias’ telepathic ability, and used it to speak to Grant. Do something before she speaks. You and I both know that she’s just as cold as the ice she commands. Jaakuna pleaded with Grant, reminding him of one of Savayna’s not-so-attractive quirks.

Grant blinked in confusion, somewhat slightly surprised by the connection. Not used to being on the spot, he looked at Savayna, and without warning, bopped her on her head. He then turned back to Emette, bracing himself for the next thing Savayna would do (likely hit him back). “I--What was it that you wanted to say earlier?” He hastily changed the subject, visibly nervous to Savayna’s reaction.

Now that was some quick thinking. Jaakuna mused to Grant, praising him for that brilliant idea. Though, he would look to Emette, hoping she wasn’t still seething. “Oh, that’s right, you were about to say something before..” His glance went to Savayna, who still seemed in a bitchfit. “So yeah, go on.” He said, ignoring Savayna’s scowl.

They were all idiots. Letting out a sigh once more, she shook her head. “As I tried to say before...You misunderstand what you saw in the mine. You--and Levi, I noted--believe that the possession was the result of Emiri going into the mines. It’s...likely the other way around. Emiri wasn’t suddenly possessed, she is a part of Zodiark. Her reaction was a result of coming close to Zodiark himself...to the darkness from whence she came.”

Jaakuna might’ve preferred Savayna’s words instead because this was quite the revelation, not to mention he didn’t believe it to be true. “What exactly are you trying to imply, Emette? Are you actually trying to suggest that Emiri and Zodiark are one in the same?”

“It certainly didn’t start that way,” Emette replied, crossing her arms. “Levi--ironically--is the one that put the idea in my head. As I recall, Levi planted a seed--one that grew and morphed her very being. Did you think Keiran was a result when instead he was a by-product?”

“He’s a result of Venat’s seed, isn’t he?” Jaakuna seemed to be asking himself rather than Emette. “That’s why Levi put that seed into Emiri...right?” Jaakuna said, nearly distraught.

For once, she gave him a sympathetic look. “I imagine so…a fragile mind makes easy prey.”

“So you’re saying it’s my own fault, aren’t you?”

Emiri had finally chosen to speak, throwing everyone off guard. She finally looked at the group, a distressed expression on her face. “It’s what you’re thinking, isn’t it?” She asked. “I...Because I wasn’t strong enough to fight it, it’s resulted in this...mess.” Emette looked away, confirming her suspicion.

“No, that’s not true.” Jaakuna stated, coming to Emiri’s defense. “Levi tricked us and then Keiran forced her to come here. It’s not her fault and fuck you for making her think that.”

It was then Grant remembered Levi’s words. “...’yet your fragile mind makes you suspect to dark influences’...” He muttered, understanding where Emette was coming from. “I have to say, she certainly picked the right time for it, taking advantage of an amnesiac right before learning of her mother’s passing…”

Lorenzo scratched the back of his head, uncomfortable with the sudden tension in the air. “Oi, Emette, tell her that isn’t what you meant,” He said, his tone suddenly very serious.

Both Emiri and Emette looked at one another, as if daring the other to speak. But it was not what was said that broke her heart, it was what wasn’t said. Emiri shook her head at the woman before her. “Even with everything said...you really do blame me, don’t you?” She asked her quietly.

Emette opened her mouth to respond, but couldn’t seem to find the right words. This time, however, Lorenzo was the one who stepped forward. “You’re really going to go there, aren’t you?” He asked her, his words sharp. “Have some sympathy, won’t you? Gods know anyone would be losing their minds going through that kind of trauma!”

“Lorenzo…” Grant tried to calm him down.

“You of all people should be agreeing with me!” He snapped at Grant. “When Mother died, it was like the end of the fucking world as I knew it! And when Roland killed Father it...you’re really telling me it’s not fine to be weak? You’re telling me that we have to be strong all the fucking time, when the truth of the matter is that no one’s that heartless! EVERYONE has their moments! And when you have the Queen Snake intentionally preying on someone, waiting for that vicious moment--you know this Levi better than I do! And you still have the gall to blame her?! Really?!”

“And what of the consequences?” Emette stated. “That’s all well and good, but as a result...Zodiark has awakened, with Levi as its host.”

“What would Justine think if she heard you say that about her daughter?” Jaakuna brazenly stated, giving Emette a nasty snarl-like scowl. “All that time you spent inside her up until her death, even though you are no longer Emet-Selch, you can’t possible be without some of that same love that Justine had for Emiri. It doesn’t matter whose fault it is or who has Zodiark now - it’s not about him or Levi. This is about your daughter.” Jaakuna tried to appeal to what little remains of Justine in Emette. “You spent so much time driving her away, it’s no wonder she doubts herself so much.” Jaakuna grabbed Emiri’s hand, looking at her. After a moment, he returned his gaze to Emette. “Now’s your chance to give her some solace. Maybe you can finally be the mother you should’ve been when Justine was alive.”

Emiri stared at the ground, full of guilt, though a slight realization came to her. Jaakuna’s words would hit her hard as she seemed to understand what he was saying. She looked up at Emette, who looked somewhat affected by his words. Wait a minute, was Jaakuna really saying…? She let go of his hand for a moment, staring at Emette. Now that she was really looking at her, she resembled…

“Wait, you’re…?” The words escaped her as Emiri reached out to her.

Emette shook her head, taking a step back. “I’m not,” She insisted rather firmly. “It’s not what you think.”

“But it is, isn’t it?” She asked her, a hint of hope in her voice.

Annoyed, Emette shook her head at her. “That sort of naivete is exactly what gets you into trouble! You can’t just believe--” She started, though she gasped as Emiri immediately embraced her. “What do you think you’re doing…?!”

“I can’t believe it,” Emette was shocked to hear Emiri’s voice being so gentle. “It’s you, isn’t it?”

Emette was stunned. “It’s not...why don’t you people ever listen?” She sighed, though as she went to berate her more,she felt Emiri shaking. “Wh-what’s wrong with you?”

“Because I know you’re saying you’re not, but I can’t help it,” Came out her choked response. “[color=pink]You can keep saying ‘no’ all you want, but I know it's you. It really is, isn’t it, Mother?[/coior]”

Her eyes widened considerably, though to everyone’s surprise, Emette would burst into tears. “How can you still call me that?!” Her response was actually rather angry, unable to hide her emotion. “After everything I did...after all that suffering you went through...you’d still call someone like me ‘mother’? Are you stupid?! Are you that much of a fool?!”

Emiri pulled back slightly, wiping away Emette’s tears. “Maybe because despite everything, you still loved me,” She replied, more confident. “Or...probably because I’m just as stupid as you say. I guess it’s just a daughter’s intuition.”

If the dam had been holding anything back, it definitely broke at this point. This time, it was Emette who took Emiri into a tight embrace, sobbing uncontrollably. “Idiot! I can’t believe you...I can’t!”

Jaakuna nor Savayna could hide their emotions as they would shed a few tears for this mother-daughter reunion (despite Emette repeatedly claiming she wasn’t Justine). It was only after Jaakuna noticed how emotional the moment was that he knew they’d need some privacy, so he gestured Grant, Lorenzo, and Savayna to follow him. “Let’s..give them a moment alone.” He told them quietly, trying not to speak too loud.

Grant nodded, empathetically pulling a sobbing Lorenzo with him. “Could you try to control yourself?” Grant asked him, annoyed.

“I--I--I--c-c-can’t help it!” He stated, a blubbering mess. “I know sh-she kept saying sh-she’s not Justine, b-b-b-but…” He couldn’t even finish his sentence, dissolving into further tears.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Isaiah agreed to an extent. “When she was one of the Judge Magisters, she was one of the most brilliant Archadians to ever become a judge. Her tendency to always predict an enemy’s plan and be several steps ahead of them was one of the main reasons, despite her young age, that she initially became a Judge. But she never rose past the rank of Third Judge.” Isaiah recalled there was a time his grandfather, during one of his many lessons, told him something he feared about Leviathan. Despite her talents, he kept her at an arm’s length “Through all of his faults, Hamut--our grandfather--had always felt something was off about Levia. He always told me never to trust her. I think without knowing it, he might’ve been referring to this very moment. And yet..” Isaiah gripped the hilt of his Falcon’s Bolt, grimacing. “We are doing exactly what Hamut, the man who betrayed his country for Venat, said we should never do.”

“If you’d rather let Ivalice perish, then you are gladly welcome to hop on my back and stop this merger from happening.” Adrammelech chided his Chosen One. “Frankly, none of us Scions like this. We know of Leviathan. As Zeromus’ chosen calls her, ‘That Treacherous Snake Woman’, but she is the lesser of the two evils -even if she will prove to be more crafty with Zodiark at her every beckon call.” Adrammelech sighed, looking to the dark sky, seeing it already starting to clear up. And as light beckoned Ivalice once more, there came a glimmer of hope. Those who fought the beasts were able to push back. This would be their chance to wipe out the beasts for good.

---

The transfer from one host to another seemed almost anticlimactic. There was a showing on the ground and glyphs lit up, but after about half of a minute, much like Zodiark’s own existence, it was silence, only the remnants of Levi’s maniacal cackling remained, though even that seemed to fade as she felt Zodiark flow into her as he was meant to do from the start of his creation. The Occuria, whom created the Scions of Light and Darkness, probably knew that Zodiark was meant to be seized and controlled by a more dominating force: the Ophiuchus Descendent.

Her eyes flashed black and sapphire blue for several minutes as her limbs moved when her body did not. Mist from all directions being swallowed into her form. It mattered not where it came from, whether it was within the Chamber or Ivalice herself, mist from all corners gathered and became locked inside Leviathans’ body, feeding Zodiark until, as the world soon felt, he was sealed once more. But unlike before, he wasn’t sealed into a series of poorly-drawn seals. No, this time, he was sealed within the Snake-Bearer.

And after several minutes passed, Leviathan’s then-closed eyes were now open, and she glanced at everyone, purring with approval. Jaakuna, who now was back to his normal form due to Leviathan’s action of sucking the mist from the area, looked at her confused but still in a wrathful state, yet he was also quite curious about what just happened. The rest appeared to look at her with the same levels of anger and confusion. Levi knew what was going through their minds. She knew that she held all the cards and if she wished it, she could wipe them all out from existence. She had the power at her disposal, but she wasn’t going to do that.

“You think that, just because I am here, I’ve come to harm you?” Levi turned around, gazing at all of them, cackling lowly. “Fear not, Heroes of Ivalice, today will not be the day your end comes. And if it does, then it will not be I who do you in.”

“Then why are you here? And why take Zodiark?” Jaakuna asked, his voice cracking as he caught the sight of Emiri. She had been unconscious since the transfer.

Levi mused a taunting sound at Jaakuna, looking at him with a feigning smile. “I have big plans for the Keeper of Precepts, none in which is any concern to you.”

“The fact that you took him is very much our concern.”

“Oh? Then, what makes you say that, dearest Jackson?”

“Zodiark is pure evil. He is darkness incarnate. We cannot allow you to keep him.”

“Honey, I’m sorry to be the one to tell you this, but you aren’t in any position to tell me what to do, not when I can save your dearest, Emilia.”

And with those words, Jaakuna was rendered speechless. He tried to speak, but his body wouldn’t let him. His eyes glanced over and Emiri and Emette. As the latter pleaded with her host’s daughter that she wasn’t done with her yet, Levi mused a chuckle, approaching the two.

“She’s quite pale, isn’t she?”

She knelt down on one knee, her warm hand feeling the coldness of Emiri’s cheek. It was as if she was already dead, yet there was still the faintest amount of life in her. Levi felt it. She also could sense Chaos try his hardest to reach her. She heard his yells, beckoning her to hear him, but she was too close to death for them to reach her. Emiri was dying. Not even the force use of her powers could save her now. Not even Ultima’s light could save her. The only thing it could be...

“Get away from her!” Jaakuna ordered, fists blazing up.

Levi mused a curious sound. Her eyes flashed and Jaakuna was forced back into the stone/wooden wall, his body crashing through it, going at least five yards deep into the mine's interior.

Her attention went back to Emiri as she stroked the young woman’s cheek, getting close as she gave it a simple peck. Levi moaned just lightly. “Quite the delicate taste she has. Even at Death’s Door, the Time Scion is delicious.”

“Seriously, what the fuck is wrong with you?” Savayna could only shake her head, grossed out by Levi.

Savayna’s outburst prompted Levi to laugh. She said nothing in retort, but a few moments later, what she did had been revealed. Emette’d know what it was right away. Chaos would be the second to realize. Anyone who has a close attachment to her, such as Grant and Jaakuna, no matter how far away, would know what happened. And as a full minute would pass, it would be obvious to even someone as foolhardy as Savayna, because Emiri would have opened her eyes by this point.

“Consider this my gift to you wonderful lot. As a token of my gratitude for making all of this possible, Emiri no longer beckons Zalara.”

“But why?”

“Because her death would not be beneficial to anyone. Besides, I could never do anything to my Silent Knight.” Levi blew Grant a kiss, winking at him once. “Until then, my sweets~”

Before either of them could get a single word in or react accordingly, Levi was gone as her body faded into black smoke and left through the hole in the ceiling. When she did, it was as if the mines started to react, because rock and steel beams started to shake. Before long, they would come down upon them. Without Zodiark’s might keeping the already-unstable mines together, it most certainly was minutes away from crumbling into nothing but a collection of steel and dirt.

“We need to go - NOW!” Savayna said, summoning Mateus. “Through the hole above. It’s our only chance!” Savayna ordered everyone as she hopped on Mateus’ back and the ice Esper had floated up, using his magick to float even higher up the hole. Belias would soon follow suit as he had Jaakuna on his back, going over to get Emette and Emiri with him, and he would follow Mateus. The others would be wise to hurry themselves.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

“Given the circumstances, it’s likely they went off on their own to investigate, though I am uncertain what led them to this notion, not to mention it was foolish of them. Then again,” through the grim reality they were facing, Wesley let out a chuckle, “Jaakuna has always been one to take on reckless ventures, yet, despite it all, it all works out in the end. I am not saying neither of them is in the right, but I have faith this will all work out in the end. All we need to do until then is endure. Besides, we are--”

Wesley sensed something coming for them. But where? It wasn’t behind nor to either left or right. So it must be…

CRASH!

Suddenly a giant beast of shadow which, unlike the ones before, was large -almost as large as Hashmal was in his Esper size. It came at such a surprise that Wesley hadn’t the time to react. Its form was slender and big. It moved awfully fast as it came from the roof. Wesley prepared his mist, but as it got closer, he realized it wasn’t going to be soon enough, not to mention the worry of hurting Nadeline and Shion clouded his mind.

And then it got close. Wesley closed his eyes, but instead of hearing the cries of Nadeline, he heard the beast itself cry out, then his eyes opened and saw the anguished expression as the beast faded into shadows.

Looking around, he saw in the direction where the door was, Shemhazai, the Whisperer had a freshly-fired crossbow with Michel standing behind it. “What timing, Michel!” Wesley let out an uncharacteristic cheer, which he corrected by coughing a moment later.

“We had our hands busy with our new friends.” Michel said with a chuckle, getting a sigh from Shemhazai.

“Must you always be so coy with how perilous this situation is.”

“Relax, Shemmy. We’ll make it through, then you can tell me again how you and Hashmal--”

“I believe that’s quite enough out of you, Michelangelo!” Shemhezai snapped, cheeks flushed with pink as she looked at Hashmal, to which the latter humphed.

“...Anyway, since it’s obvious Jaakuna and Emiri aren’t here, my job is to make sure these beasts do not harm any of my citizens. Furthermore, I am issuing that the Espers aid my city. Of course, I can only order Hashmal--” Wesley was interrupted by a scoff from Hashmal “--but I can’t tell Ultima nor Shemhazai what to do, so I am asking you two if you will fight with the Humes of Dalmasca? Please, we need your strength.”+

“I am willing to if the High Seraph is.” Shemhezai added.

---

“The biggest mistake my foolish younger brother ever made.” Adrammelech added angrily.

Isaiah listened and couldn’t believe it. Okay, well maybe he could, but there was still a lot of surprising facts that Roman just said. Quite possibly the biggest one was that Jackson was most likely fighting Zodiark/Emiri as this very moment, which just made Isaiah wonder more about what kind of mess he had gotten himself into this time. He’s always been one to attract trouble, but now it seemed as though he was at the center of the worst thing to happen to Ivalice since the Undying, Vayne Solidor.

“This no doubt means that, in order to save Ivalice from certain destruction, Jackson has to kill his beloved.”

“Not necessarily,” Adrammelech said somberly, hinting at something he wasn’t saying (as usual). “We are under the assumption that Zodiark has merged his being with the Time Scion’s, but that’s not accurate. Ivalice, though she appears to be breaking apart, is not yet in the darkness.”

“Meaning that Zodiark hasn’t been fully released.”

Adrammelech clapped, “very good, you actually do have some intuition.” He received a scowl from Isaiah. “But anyway, the ritual has not yet been completed. But it will be short. Only thing stopping it is…”

---

The battle raged on as Ivalice was further threatened to collapse on herself. Emiri taunted Jaakuna , proving that her magicks were far superior to the Transcendents own, yet it would not make him back down. When she came for him in a physical manner, there would be no backing down on his part. He met her as their sword would clash, mist of light and darkness sending shockwaves throughout the room, slowly crumbling it into pieces. A few more clashes like that and the Henne Mines will crash on top of itself.

“You really think you’re going to win? You’re on borrowed time, Zodiark!” Jaakuna pushed back so far that he had forced he and Emiri to clash into the wall where both had become entangled in an aura of black and white.

As the battle continued, the others only could watch as Jaakuna, the one who anyone least-thought would amount to anything was the only person strong enough to end the dire situation Zodiark had created, yet Savayna felt something was off. Not about Emiri nor Jaakuna, but something else fast approached Henne Mines. She sensed it the minute they stepped into Henne Mines. In her gut and in the whisperings from Mateus, both of them had felt something was truly off, but what? Gods damn it, what is it!

And to make matters worse, Grant, clueless as ever, asked what they should do? “As if i’m supposed to know. Jaakuna fights on for our’s and Ivalice’s sake. And what are we doing? Standing around like helpless ants.” Savayna balled her fist, wanting to punch something but as always - as she was back..back in Archadia.

And then it hit her. Not since Archadia, but before. She knew. The feeling she had..the sinister, vile, gut-wrenching feeling she had since arriving her, she knew what it was - or rather who it was.

“Prepare yourselves! It--IT COMES!”

---

“You’re kidding me. Please tell me you’re not telling the truth, Adrammelech.”

“I’m afraid not. I wish I was, trust me, it’s not an ideal situation, but in order to get rid of the bigger evil, a lesser one must be accepted.”

Isaiah was bewildered by Adrammelech’s words. To think, of all people, they were their only hope. If that was true, then they’ve truly been desperate to end this temporary apocalypse. But even still, Isaiah couldn’t shake this feeling in his gut that, wherever this person was, they were laying in wait--waiting for the right time to strike.

“And to think, they were under our noses this entire time..”

---

Savayna’s mist field activated into overdrive as misty wind spread as far as it could, yet it would not stop the opposing mist of that which made its presence known. Vile magick of ancient origins spread from the walls and from the ceiling, inching its way through the cracks. Dark blue and black goo-like magick covered all crevices of every hole that was already there or had been made from the battle.

Her eyes glimmered with iciness and Savayna, with the power from MAteus, charged forth. But she was too late. Her body froze when she heard ominous laughter. More to the point, it was that laughter. It was that same laugh that still sent chills down her spine and it was the laugh that would freeze where Jaakuna and Emiri stood. It froze Keiran. It froze Grant, Lorenzo, Emette, and even the masters of ice, Savayna, and Mateus. All were forced to stay put as all of the black, tar-like magick came together into one place at the center of the room, standing over the Snake-Bearer Statue.

The tar magick came together, the form complete and the laugh was now at full volume, but it was no longer echoed as it was before. The source of it was in front of them and even though Savayna was right, she had wished she wasn’t. “You!” Savayna yelled out. She could still speak but her movements were bound by their power.

The form looked up and those in the room would know as their face came into the light. It was a face of dark tones, tribal markings going from the bottom of the eyes well down to the cheeks, heavy eyeshadow that brought out the richness of those all-too-familiar, sapphire-colored eyes. The hair was no longer spiked up as it had once been; instead, it was down, wavy, and like silk. And the attire this one had worn was no more. In its stead was a dress colored black and blue, patterned with the same symbols that Emiri was covered in.

“Levi! What are you--you’re supposed to be dead!”

“General Savayna, you surprise me. Your strength has nearly doubled since our last bout. And you, my sweet prince,” she looked at GRant, “I see you’ve yet to unlock Zeromus’ Seal, but you’re not far. I imagine you’re going to be even stronger than Jackson here.” Her eyes went to Jaakuna and Emiri. “Poor Time Scion, your power is so great, yet your fragile mind makes you suspect to dark influences. First, it was Venat and now, even Zodiark beckons you, which makes me believe that Chaos is at his limit with you. I wonder, though? Will you need to be reset once more?” Her always sinister voice hummed. “And as for you, Jackson, I applaud you trying. Belias no doubt told you of my arrival, yet as we stand here, you were too late.”

“What are you going to do!?” Savayna demanded to know, repeating herself again.

Levi chuckled, amused. Her eyes went all around the room. She had missed all of her wonderful friends. It was the reunions to top all reunions. “I am going to do what I was meant to.” Levi eyed the statue. It spoke to her. It was the reason her purpose; for her to become Zodiark was truly her calling, for her name and her soul aligns with the Snake. She is the embodiment of Ophiuchus. “Flow into me, Keeper of Precepts. Part with time and become one with the Snake-Bearer!” Her markings glowed and she let out a maniacal, almost orgasmic laugh, becoming possessed as the true end was about to begin.