Altered Tundra

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

“You and me both.” Jaakuna let out a sigh of sadness. Oh, how he missed his baby. More importantly, he missed hearing Iris’ voice. If there would be anything accomplished out of this trip, it’d be that he and the Ifrit get reunited. But for now, they had more important things to tackle. Specifically, getting to Roman as quick as possible.

Jaakuna had gathered what he needed and pulled Emiri along as he went for a sprint. In his haste, Jaakuna may or may not have activated his mist and blazed up, creating a rather noticeable hole in the door and rushed past Savayna and Shion, causing them to be left in his dust. Additionally, Jaakuna would rush past everyone and burst through the doors, leaving a path of total destruction as he yelled with glee and excitement.

Once out of the aerodome, he and Emiri (mostly him) would not worry about the hassle of using an aircab. Instead, with Emiri in his arms, Jaakuna sprouted an aura of fire and would take flight, speeding past all aircabs and miniature airships that had been flying.

“I hope this is fast enough for you, my darling!” Jaakuna yelled out from the excitement, turning and twisting as he played keep away with oncoming traffic.

Meanwhile, in the airship, everyone was all in a frenzy as their supposed prince had left all with minor burn injuries. Savayna looked at Shion with a sigh. “I bet you regret not taking separate airships.” Savayna said to Shion, sighing annoyingly.

---

The journey through the city made Wesley feel a little at ease. Stigma had always been a staple for the pride of the Rozarrian people. To see it not only withstood the onslaught of the invasion that took to Ivalice’s soils throughout the night but all Rozarrians - military and civilians - were working together so their city may return to its former glory at some point in time, Wesley felt his queen’s pride as well as every ounce of pride that came from Grant and Lorenzo.

When they stepped through the Castle gates and walked in the castle itself, there was a brief moment of conversation between some servant by the name of Mariano. Apparently, the meeting with the council had already begun. Wesley didn’t know what this meant, but as Grant noted that Karolina knew how to stall, Wesley noticed Nadeline’s sigh of relief. Despite that, however, it didn’t stop either of the Rozarrians from heading to the Council Meeting Room.

Upon entering, Lorenzo made all come to a pause as he brought his wife into an embrace. Wesley couldn’t deny the entertaining factor of when Lorenzo and Karolina were in each other’s arms. There was something infectious about it - so much so that Wesley glanced at their daughter, giving her a sweet smile.

“And to you, Karolina.” Wesley gave a similar smile to his future mother-in-law.

Shortly afterward, the meeting would continue with all taking their seats. Wesley took a seat on the far left with Nadeline, Lorenzo, Karolina, and Grant following to the right. Across from them were four men who all looked to be in their mid-life, though one by the name of Arcturus seemed to be older than the other three. They seemed to be devoid of outward emotions. They seemed to be the types that were excellent at hiding their true intention. Wesley knew men like these. He was a man like them.

After letting out a muffled chuckle, Wesley simply minded his tongue as the conversation started with a bombshell he’d suspected Nadeline was going to tell them. While she did mostly keep it to herself, there had been suspicious that she’d inform the council. Given what happened to them in recent days and how she’s most likely carrying his child, it was an obvious choice from anyone with inside knowledge. Though, as Wesley had noticed from the councilmen, they didn’t seem to share Wesley’s approval.

And to be frank, Wesley thought they were a tad harsh on her. However, Aurelio seemed to be more understanding of it, if not a tad uninformed. Thankfully, Grant would enlighten them about Jaakuna’s treaty and how, even as this meeting took place, they were in the process of getting it started. Added to that, Wesley did find it mildly amusing how, no matter what either of the four men said, they would be silenced by a correction from either Nadeline or Grant. And when they would bring up an alternate solution, they would, again, be thrown off-guard. There was absolutely no denying that Wesley had found the entertainment value in this.

You’re enjoying yourself, aren’t you?

It’s hard not to. These men, try as they might, are having the most difficult time in getting what they want. As far as I’ve heard of them, they’ve made Reia’s life hard, which in turn had made her into a difficult person. If anything, I am a firm believer in--

And as Wesley was cut off mid-thought, Aurelio implied something that got Wesley’s attention.

On the subject of Nadeline’s other reasons, he saw through the subtlety on her part about how she was bearing his child and the councilman, despite his attempt to not insult her, had flat-out accused Nadeline of being a common whore - something she corrected him that she wasn’t. That didn’t matter to Wesley, however. This man, no matter his nobility status, talked down to his queen. If there was one thing Wesley could not and would not stand, it was anyone disrespecting the love of his life without them paying for it.

Proceed with caution.

Wesley heard Hashmal’s words and he cleared his throat. Even after Nadeline had explained it, they seemed as stubborn as any Rozarrian was. Wesley eyed all of them. They all made him sick. These kinds of men who had no business ordering around those in power what they should do in their personal lives. Telling Nadeline that she couldn’t marry him because it was a fantasy. To think that their hearts have grown stale and empty that they couldn’t see to Nadeline’s reason.

Well, fortunate for them, it was not only her place to speak.

“Forgive me, Noble Council. I know I am not familiar with all of Rozarria’s traditions, but is it not stated in your laws that, should an heir find a suitable partner, they are free to choose what they want to do no matter where it’ll lead them, correct?” Wesley seemed to recall from memory as he looked at each of them. Wesley leaned back into his chair, resting his head lightly on his arm, eyes still on the councilmen. “There was a time where the Rozarrian Council encouraged the heir to seek foreign partners. So, pray tell, when did you forsake the traditions your forefathers fought so hard to establish?” Wesley asked them as he remained in his seat.

---

Inside the Emperor’s Tower, Roman had been busy at signing order after order. Isaiah, as First Judge Magister, oversaw each order. They were anywhere from building permits to pardons for wrongly-convicted criminals. There were at least five piles of them and Roman was only halfway through the first stack of them.

He let out a sigh, looking out the window, admiring how far the repair had come. With as much technology that was at their disposal, the restoration of Archades should be completed within a month. Of course, that’s assuming the city doesn’t take another massive hit. Thankfully for them, Archadia’s allies have been helping with the renovation.

As he had his eyes on the buildings, he noticed an odd shine coming from the central building. “It might just be me or…” Isaiah noticed it was coming closer and closer. Only was it as it came into full-view did he realize what it was, or rather, who it was. “Get down, my Emperor!”

Isaiah didn’t have enough time to warn Roman in time, so he tackled the man to the ground as the blazing aura had came bursting through the window in a crazed, excited laughter, setting the piles of papers ablaze, and nearly burning the door to the office too. Thankfully, he had a control of his speed.

“Jaakuna, what a pleasure to see you.” Isaiah tried to say that as genuine as he could, but given the circumstances, he couldn’t very well mean it the way he had hoped.

“Damn babe, now talk about a landing!” Jaakuna, who had completely ignored his cousin, looked at Emiri in his arms, with a wide smile. “We almost bit the dust there with that aircab holding those Viera. I swear, if I hadn’t done that spiral, they’d be toast.”

“Did you hear me!?”

“Not to mention, getting here was a real test of speed and strength.” Jaakuna was still in his own zone until he felt something zap him, which sent him face-first into the door and unconscious.

Good going, dumbass!

Oh shut up, will ya?

Dance With The Angels - A GFX Shop by Altered Tundra

@Darquesse Oh sweet! I'll work on it later today. If I don't have it up by tonight, then it'll for sure be up tomorrow. =)

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Things at the Royal Palace went into a bit of an uproar as Wesley had announced he was going to accompany Nadeline and her uncles to Stigma. In that, it caused the staff to rush around and panic as they had to make adjustments to the lack of their king. Of course, no one was more surprised by this rather impulsive decision than Isabelle was. As Wesley could note, she wasn’t too pleased with the decision. She noted that it was just like how she used to be. After a back-and-forth, she gave in, and would simply let him be.

And then, after one additional hour, the group walked in bulk through the city from the palace, escorted by the Knights of Dalmasca, of course, and made their way into the Aerodome. Each of them booking their own flights. The group of Jaakuna, Savayna, Emiri, and Shion were booking a commercial airship flight to the Imperial City of Archades, and the Rozarrians of the group (with the addition of Wesley) booked their own flight for the Divine City of Stigma. They would, of course, say their farewells. Mostly, it was Grant and Savayna acting a bit awkwardly. They didn’t embrace or anything - well, they kind of did, but not as much as both probably would’ve preferred.

And thus, they each with forth into their respective terminals. Some returning home and some going for their own reasons. Whether it was to support the one they loved or to reunite with one they loved, it was not to be denied that their reasons for going were good enough for those who had a trip to return home in mind.

---

Jaakuna was well-rested after taking half of the day to just sleep. Though, it not only took that much time away from not only him but his traveling companions. After the night they had, a nice, long rest was just exactly what the Doctor Cid ordered. Besides, he welcomed the low-paced rest with open arms. Sometimes, even a Sky Pirate needed to be grounded for a while. Nothing like a commercial airship that moved slower than a Wood Toad to knock back a few hours of some shut-eye.

As he got up a bit groggy, the pilot announced through the telecom that their vessel had arrived in Archades, to which Jaakuna let out a loud groan, possibly waking up Emiri, who seemed to still be asleep. Though, perhaps not anymore after Jaakuna wasn’t so quiet in his groan just now. Either way, they would have to get their stuff ready, so Jaakuna repeatedly shook the bed, which seemed to be a mistake because he did so too violently and Emiri was sent on a first-class trip to Face-Firstville on the floor. Jaakuna knew he made the mistake when heard two things: a loud thud and Emiri’s sudden yelp of pain.

“There have been worse ways to wake up, I suppose.” Jaakuna nervously laughed as he would go to help her up As soon as he did, he would make sure nothing was broken. He couldn’t be responsible for her hurting herself even if it was his fault.

---

Wesley didn’t sleep much.

Unlike the rest of his friends, he was able to catch some sleep before they’d returned to Rabanastre. Besides, there were a few thoughts on his mind. As he sat in the room he and Nadeline shared for the entirety of the trip by the window, he gazed at the open sky as they had come into view of Stigma. Despite what happened, it seemed to retain its stability since he was last here. A lot has happened and Wesley had to wonder what the state of the empire was. He knew that the Rozarrian council, no matter how much they liked Karolina - and Wesley knew they were fond of her - they needed someone with blood ties to the family. Wesley knew it was on Nadeline’s mind. He knew it was also on Lorenzo’s and GRant’s mind too.

Soon a voice announced that they’ve arrived and Wesley would turn and get his things. He strapped his sword on his left hip and strapped his rations along his entire waist. Once done, he looked to Nadeline, giving her a nod. “Let us go then.”

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

"Well.." Jaakuna awkwardly interrupted Nadeline's last sentence, looking at everyone, scratching the back of his head nervously. "I was paid by Aloa and Vlyn to retrieve Emiri for Reia. Though, I didn't return the gil I got paid. I decided, like a true sky pirate, to take the gil and goods." He let out a proud laugh.

Wesley kind of chuckled, "well, I guess you really haven't changed in these months that passed. To think the infamous explosion in Lowtown that my guards thought was some rebel trying to usurp my father's rule turned out to be nothing more than a reckless buffoon." He chuckled, giving Jaakuna a smile after receiving a scowl.

"What do you mean reckless idiot?"

"I meant it as a compliment." Wesley assured Jaakuna, "although.."

"Although?"

"Cassandra's going to be disappointed."

"What does your sister have to do with how Jaakuna is a kidnapping, gil-stealing idiot?" Savayna asked, beating Jaakuna to the punch.

"Yeah, what my crazy ex-wife said."

Wesley let out a sigh, glancing over at everyone's exasperated expressions. "Around the time that you had blew up Lowtown and the story behind who it was got way out of control, you could say, Cassandra, though she didn't know who it was, developed this obsession about the person." He let out another sigh, seeming to dread what he was about to say. "I remember she had said she wanted to meet this person and honor them in a way that only she could." He shuttered at the thought.

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.