Altered Tundra

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

While Isaiah rolled his eyes at Roman's comment, Jaakuna snorted. He remembered the kind of old men that usually handled such affairs like treaty signing and other paperwork. During his time being with his grandfather and, of course, his father, there were a lot of times where jumping out of the window seemed like the best course of action. It sure as hell beat sitting through the boring lectures and sifting through the sub-clauses of treaties and bills. honestly, Jaakuna knew, in that instant, he wasn't cut from the same cloth that Hamut and Roman was. He could do the ruling aspect no problem. If nothing else, Jaakuna had a mind for ruling his country, but the paperwork was not one of his strong points. Best leave that to the nerds.

Letting out a sigh, Jaakuna looked around, only now realizing that Cassandra still had her hand on his leg. Seeing as how she spoke nearly a minute ago, she knew very well it was on there. What was even worse, she tried to go more inward, nearing a place where she had no business going, so he smacked it away. Of course, she didn't like that, so she would casually place it back on his leg. "Stop it," he whispered, smacking her hand away again.

And still she would persist.

"I...think you better intervene. I've seen that look on Jaakuna's face before. We don't need him angering her before things get started." Isaiah advised Roman to take a seat where Jaakuna was, or at least next between him and Cassandra. He also could tell Emiri was close to doing something about it as well.

---

Wesley nearly lost his composure when it came to thinking about Savayna being understanding. She was a lot of things, that could not be denied, but he never saw her being understanding, least of all when it came to what Grant impulsively made the decision of. In fact, if he wouldn't know any better if she found out, Wesley had it in his mind that she would do something rather...violent to Grant. He dared not speculate, but he could estimate that, when she and he have the conversation, it might not end up in the way that Grant would hope.

"I do suppose it'll be an interesting moment for you two," Wesley mused, pondering on the possibilities. Though, as he would, he thought of something else as if it just came to him at that very moment. "I wonder if I was too harsh on the council." Wesley murmured to himself, though it was within the proximity of the others. "I must confess something." Wesley looked at everyone, though his attention was centered on his fiance. "When Leblanc implied you to be promiscuous, Nadeline, I wanted to draw every breath of air left in him with my own, two hands. I found myself thinking what would Jaakuna do? I know that is not the wisest thing to do, especially when dealing with a foreign council, but I couldn't allow him to even imply such things about you." He informed her regretfully, feeling a bit of shame about the whole matter. Even if it felt good at the time, that was no way for a future king to react despite how it garnered him his desired results.

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Speak and you shall be heard.

Like a zombie raised from the graveyard, Jaakuna let out a rather ominous moan, holding his golden mane-covered head. His eyes were barely open and he had a throbbing headache. Getting whacked in the head not only once but twice within the same half-hour never would sit well with anyone. He had a hard head - it was common knowledge, but even someone with a stubborn head like he does had a limit. More to the point, when one finds themselves at the receiving end of two, strong blows to their cranium, it definitely brings up the question of how much is too much?

He asked himself that question a few times as he finally took to his feet. As he glanced around the room, taking in exactly who was present, it also took Jaakuna an extended amount of time to realize that there was double the amount of people that he was slowly remembering. He definitely remembered his cousin and brother, but the addition of Reia and Cassandra was a bit new for him. To be frank, it was too much. He needed to take a seat, so he would find one next to Emiri, who was across from Cassandra

"What's going on?" He asked lazily, wincing as only one eye was open.

"Seems like you've seen better days," Cassandra stated, looking at Jaakuna rather lovingly, reaching over to rub his leg.

Isaiah raised an eyebrow, leaning to Roman. "Bold one, isn't she?" He whispered.

---

After the meeting had commenced and Wesley received a nod of respect from Arcturus, WEsley would return it and give the other council members a nod. Despite what had transpired, he meant no harm. It was a tense moment and they forced his hand. He had to ensure that they understood what was at stake and that, no matter who they might be or what pull they might have in Rozarria, Wesley wouldn't let them talk down to Nadeline nor would he allow them to force their will upon her. It seemed as though that tactic succeeded (much to Wesley's relief).

"Thank you, Karolina," Wesley offered her a smile.

It was an interesting conversation that the 8Rozarrians were having about not only Wesley's actions during the meeting but how he and Nadeline were expecting a child. Additionally, there did seem to be a rather positive air around the bunch. With Nadeline feeling embarrassed about her parents' comments and Wesley finding the energy motivating. Karolina wanted them to have a daughter and Lorenzo wanted it to be a boy. Honestly, Wesley hadn't given it much thought. To him, as long as the baby was healthy, he had no reservations about it being boy or girl. The child would be his first-born and he would love it regardless of sex. Though, the idea of having a son did strike an interesting thought. To be able to bestow the knowledge his father placed unto him would be wonderful, but a daughter made him feel think how she would be his life..

"You're too kind, Karolina, but honestly, I just want my child to be healthy. Although," Wesley chuckled at his current thought, "I do wonder what color hair it might have. While it's true I have dark, almost black hair, my mother is also a blonde. Nadeline is too, as well as yourself and Lorenzo. My father also was one, but more in the dark gold shade." He thought on that for a hard moment. "I seemed to have missed out on the gold of hair. My grandfather, according to my father, had hair as dark as the night sky, so that explains why I lack the same shade as both of my parents had."

Time Stops For Fire(Altered Tundra and Hero)

Isaiah shook his head at his Emperor. Even in the wake of his paperwork being reduced to nothing but ash, he still found the time to flirt with his brother’s girlfriend. Honestly, it was times like these that made Isaiah miss his grandfather. Even still, at least with Jaakuna down and out for the time being, there would be time to have a moment of reprieve. Surely Roman was craving his tenth cup of tea since his last break.

“For heaven’s sake, Roman..” Isaiah would go over to where the tea was and pour two cups - one for Roman and one for Emiri. He would hand one to each of them and take hsi position back at the right side of Roman’s desk. “So, what are you two doing here, anyway?” Isaiah asked Emiri.

And just as the question had been asked, Jaakuna started to wake up. As he would start to stand up, the door suddenly burst open with force and it smacked Jaakuna in the face, flipping him once. He was, once again visiting the Land of Dreams.

“Yes, can we help you?” Isaiah asked, looking at two women in front of him. Both of them were blonde, but one was certainly older than the other. “Oh, Princess Cassandra and Empress Reia, how good of you to join us.”

Cassandra looked around the room, seeing two Archadians with the added bonus of an unconscious Jackson and Emiri, which made her scowl for a brief moment, though she would recover. As she walked past Emiri, she offered the girl a superior scoff, laughing somewhat at the blonde prince's predicament. "Ah, Judge Ixion, well met!" Cassandra greeted him pleasantly, giving him a kiss on the cheek, "and Emperor Roman! Your reputation proceeds you, though I was to assume that it would just be the three of us." She inquired confused.

---

Hearing them all speak made Wesley grow more irate as they kept speaking. Honestly, most of what they said fell on deaf ears. He heard bits and pieces, but there came a point where Wesley just heard it as the same thing, just in different phrasing. At which point should Wesley keep his mouth quiet? If Jaakuna were here, they’d shut up. In all honesty, Jaakuna would’ve made them fear him the second they’d call his beloved a whore. Maybe that wasn’t always the right way to go, but if they kept speaking the way they did, Wesley might have to resort to that kind of desperate tactic.

Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that.

Wesley couldn’t agree more. It was his last resort.

In the meantime, of course, Wesley had to deal with the growing frustration at this council. He now understood what drove Reia to her desperate actions. Having these out-of-touch, soulless, fools always breathing down your neck would drive anyone to hold onto power no matter what it’d cost you. Wesley sure as hell knew that he would be without a soul with these four on him all day and night. One has to think that Reia was thankful for the time away.

Of course, that didn’t solve the problem that Wesley and the others were facing right now.

“My apologies, Council, but I don’t believe I heard right.” After a long moment of silence following Grant, he spoke, looking at the four men as neutrally as he could. “Did you actually imply that I, Wesley Alexander and rightful king of Dalmasca, give up my heir’s name just because it inconveniences you?” Wesley inquired, “I, of course, am meaning no disrespect, though you’ve hardly showed me the same courtesy.”

“An inconvenience isn’t the half of it,” Leblanc informed him. “An inconvenience is having a prince choose to wed an Archadian--who until very recently was a threat to our country. This threatens to crumble what little order we have. Do you think it wise to simply give up our princess out of a love she claims to have? Clearly lust was at play here.”

Grant had to bite his own tongue at his point, giving Lorenzo a swift kick to prevent him from speaking. Lorenzo glared at Grant, who would shake his head. He knew Lorenzo had good intentions, but he needed to understand that Nadeline, for all intents and purposes, was not his problem. She was Wesley’s--and he knew that Wesley wasn’t going to take this sitting down (figuratively, of course).

Nadeline scoffed. “You wound me with your words,” She said icily.

“Perhaps. Unless you’ve eloped and married without anyone knowing?”

“Nadeline is not yours to give away. She is not a hound that you can train and retrieve a stick you have thrown across the way nor is she a bargaining chip for you--none of you--to use in your quest to hold onto power.” Wesley informed them rather firmly without losing his cool. “She is, as Councilman Arcturus said, the heart of Rozarria. And the fact that you councilmen have the audacity to imply that she doesn’t know how to differentiate lust from love in not only an insult on her or the Royal Family, but it’s an insult on Rozarria!” His voice stung harder than a flock of wasps.

The three men seemed displeased with Leblanc, who would quietly sink into his seat. Grant wasn’t quite able to hide his grin, clearly enjoying this much more than he should have. DeVanios would instead do his best to appeal to Wesley in a way he could understand. “Absolutely, Highness. We wish only for Rozarria’s future the same way I am sure you think of Dalmasca,” He said. “But as a ruler, even you must agree that this comes off very much as a shock. Nadeline is our princess. She comes and goes as she pleases, and then suddenly comes back, engaged and pregnant? Even at the best of times, it’s startling. She can do as she pleases, but that doesn’t mean she should. Or, at the very least, announce her intentions ahead of time so that we may adjust.”

“Marriage between royals is as strategic as it is seeking benefits. Despite gaining a positive with our relationship with the Alexander family, we feel her loss is a huge one,” Aurelio couldn’t help but add.

“Huge doesn’t begin to describe it,” Leblanc ended up admitting. “Nadeline is completely adored by all. Losing her to another country is a blow unlike any other.”

Now they were just grasping at straws.

Wesley eyed all of them carefully, but he centered his attention at Leblanc. “Let me ask you a question, Councilman Leblanc.”

“Yes, my lord?”

“You all claimed to know about the treaty, but do you know what it actually entails?”

He seemed to struggle with an answer, unsure of where to go. This time, however, Arcturus would speak. “We do not. Please, enlighten us.”

“It is an intricate, detailed treaty that was penned by myself, my mother, Queen Regent Isabelle Alexander, the rightful heir to the Archadian Empire, Jackson Darcone, and your Empress, Reia Roselia. In it, they organized a way where our three, great Empires will enter a binding treaty that is tied with Ivalice’s greatest and simple pleasure that she has granted us.”

“A treaty we have yet to see,” Aurelio couldn’t help but point out. “Are you suggesting your marriage to Nadeline is included?”

“Not just mine, Councilman.” Wesley said, “in it, our countries will be connected through the unions of myself and Nadeline, my sister, Cassandra and Roman, Grant and Roman, and Jackson and Emiri. Through this treaty, it will ensure that we all get what we want. I will be able to rule my country with my beloved at my side, you will get your wish to have a successor in the form of Grant, who, in my humble opinion, is the best option. He is not only a battle-tested commander, but he is just as emotionally-sound as he is compassionate to those close to him.” Lorenzo could barely contain a snort of laughter, though he then grunted, his face on the table. Karolina smiled for Wesley to continue. Grant reminded himself to never piss Karolina off.

He looked at all of them, his eyes suddenly shifting into something threatening. “Royal Council, I can promise you one thing: if you do not forsake any and all notions you have of using Nadeline for your political agenda, your tenures as councilmen will come to a swift end.” Wesley threatened them, his resolve unwavering.

The air in the room had this invisible lightning, the tension rising much faster than it should have. Nadeline looked at Wesley, unsure of what direction he was trying to take this. It would be a moment before anyone would break the silence--and DeVanios would, once again, take that honor. “This is certainly an accusation…” He admitted. “Though...this ‘Emiri’...that wouldn’t happen to be the same Emelia Iniabi, would it?”

“Iniabi...Lord Andre’s daughter?” Leblanc asked, surprised. “We are aware that Grant cancelled the engagement...is this the reason?”

“Regardless of the reason, I do wonder how Archadia will take it.” Aurelio wondered outloud.

“Losing a commonborn--even a daughter of a famed general--can’t quite compare to our princess,” Leblanc muttered. “Jackson...not the same Jackson accused of murdering his father? That...can’t be right.”

This time, Grant felt the need to speak. “Jackson was acquitted, and deemed not responsible,” He intervened, halting the discussion between the councilmen immediately. “I only ask you not let false information cloud your judgement.”

“A comforting thought. Commonborn as she may be, an offering to Archadia would certainly be beneficial,” Arcturus spoke, though he would then turn to the situation at hand. “The three countries united...it almost sounds too good to be true.”

Aurelio nodded. “Then we assume this will all be happening in the near future?” He asked. “I admit, however, I am still concerned. Nadeline will wed Wesley--clearly, their decision is made. But I fear, for our...next issue.”

Grant wanted to let out a groan; he hated being put on the spot. “Emiri--Emelia and Nadeline will serve as symbols. Despite her ‘nominal’ importance, I urge you take Jaakuna--Jackson’s marriage to her just as seriously,” He was stumbling over their names--why the hell didn’t they use their normal names like everyone else again? “[color=magenta]Now more than ever, we need to all be on the same page.”

“Which is all well and good to be said, but the actions laid before us are on the contrary!” Leblanc frowned. “Which also brings us to you. An Archadian woman! And not just any, no, it had to be a Glacie! Have you any idea what that name means?”

“I must ask,” Aurelio would interrupt Leblanc’s rant. “Grant, if anything has made this conversation clear, it is that you will be our Emperor. And seeing as how...haphazard this has been, you are aware that the responsibility of the country falls to you? And your bride to be is alright with this?”

Unfortunately, this time, Grant was like a deer in headlights. Tripping over the finish line; ah, sweet ignorance, thy taste was pleasant. He hadn’t a clue what to say: should he admit outright that he hadn’t actually spoken to Savayna about this, or should he just lie about it? The awkwardness and tension between the two had skyrocketed. He wasn’t even half sure that Savayna wanted to move to Rozarria. And yet…

“Of course she is” He said rather confidently. “You will find her to be quite an addition; her military status is second to none, I assure you.”

Lorenzo had to physically cover his mouth, only managing not to get a sound out as Karolina would give him a rather frightening look. Nadeline cleared her throat, her hand scratching the back of her neck rather nervously. Wow, she was not jealous of Grant right now. At all. She stole a glance at Wesley, as if pondering his thoughts.

Interesting tactic, Zeromus’ Chosen One has. Hashmal mused to Wesley.

Wesley agreed with that to an extent. It certainly solved one of their problems, but there still were a few that remained. Specifically, the councilmen didn’t seem to think Wesley was serious about his claims earlier. Though, perhaps with Grant flexing his muscles, so to speak, they hopefully received the message. “I’ve no doubt that you understand all that has been said, but just so I’ve made myself clear, Nadeline is no longer yours. You will get your wish for Reia’s successor in the form of her brother. You’ll get a uniting bond with both Archadia and Dalmasca with the marriages between myself and Nadeline, and Grant and Savayna. There will be no reason for you to pursue this matter further. Should you test me, I can guarantee none of you will particularly enjoy what’ll be the result of your greed.”

“Of course, Your Highness. We look forward to our relationship with Dalmasca,” Arcturus spoke, leaning back in his seat.

DeVanios nodded, though attempted to put a positive end on the conversation. “If I may ask, my lord, what is our future Queen like?” He asked Grant about Savayna.

“She is the female version of Jackson.”Lorenzo burst out laughing for real this time, unable to contain it. However, he grunted not once, not twice, but three times, his laughter dissolving into a whimper.

Nadeline let out a short, polite laugh, though she cleared her throat. “That is to say--she is loyal, determined, passionate…” She found herself struggling to not use the words ‘crass’, ‘fiery’, or ‘foul-mouthed’. She threw Wesley a look for help.

“Her ability to be unyielding is as much admirable as it is one of her greatest strengths. She’s someone I’m sure will surprise you.” For better or for worse, that was probably the truest statement that anyone could make about Savayna.

“She likes ice, too. She froze me once--OOMPH!” This time Karolina stomped on his foot, causing him to whimper more. “She’s...extraordinarily talented...with ice magicks...darling, that hurt…!”

“She sounds lovely!” Karolina cheerfully stated as she patted her husband.

Grant wanted to cry. Nadeline glared at him, motioning him to say something. “...the love of my life…” He murmured, letting out a sigh. “And she’ll be delighted...to come live here...away from her entire family...and giving up her entire career...yes, that...that is the woman I’m marrying…”

The four men looked at Grant, unconvinced, yet they dared not spark Wesley’s wrath a second time.

Dance With The Angels - A GFX Shop by Altered Tundra

@Altered Tundra
Type of Request:
Signature

Stock:
i.imgur.com/Z7DMUe6.png

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The current size will do.

Avatar:
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Text:
To the right of Skulduggery - “There's no such thing as winning or losing. There is won and there is lost, there is victory and defeat. There are absolutes. Everything in between is still left to fight for.”

Other:
Since it's kind of boring as-is (black background, grayscale image), maybe some fire could be coming from the text? Around the edges, underneath, I don't mind, really. It's just Skulduggery's signature power, so it'd be cool to have it.

@Darquesse

Here ya are! I hope you like it. :)

Crooked Young - An Altered Lies Production

---

---

If there was one thing that Adrianna could say about Miss Huntsberg, it was her ability to remain composed despite being in front of the mother of a young man whom she was involved with - even if just for a brief time. With that being said, there was this air of uncertainty that she felt coming from the latina. Adrianna couldn’t quite place exactly what it was, but something in her eyes and overall mannerisms were hinting at something she wasn’t letting on. Perhaps that’s where Adrianna should focus on.

“There’s no need to apologize to me. If anything, I should be the one to offer my condolences to you. My son, as I’m sure you’ve noticed by now, isn’t the easiest of men to be around. As much as I love him, he is his father’s son. For better or worse, those two are most certainly, if you’ll forgive the euphemism, two peas in a pod.” She nearly winced at the thought of what her son could’ve done to get this lovely young woman to come to his way of thinking.

Much like Adrianna was herself, Audrey made it very difficult to get a clear reading, not to mention how she handled herself. Audrey reminded Adrianna of herself when she was this young woman’s age. So full of life and grace, yet had the tendency to fall for those that were the complete opposite. Of course, Adrianna wasn’t sure if she had fallen for Alexandros, but the reverse certainly was the case. Had her Alex not been in such a state to where he seemed almost saddened by what transpired just a few days ago, Adrianna wouldn’t have bothered and she’d let her son do whatever he needed to ensure that he got over her.

Audrey’s last comment brought an unexpected laugh to emit from Adrianna’s lips. “Well, yes, I am sure he is. My son is, if nothing else, consistent.”

Her mind went straight to how Baltazar was in pursuing her. Granted, their tale had a bit more on the line than just their reputation, but it had a lot of the same elements. Baltazar had a reputation that followed him and Adrianna was drawn to it by her curiosity alone. They didn’t particularly like each other in the beginning, but his charm and subtle silliness got her addicted to him. Difficult as it might’ve been for them, the power of their love seemed to outweigh the very real dangers of their families being at war with one another. In fact, when it all came down to it, they chose each other over their respective families.

Something that Adrianna could see was carried over to Alexandros and Audrey. Though, they did seem to be in the first stages of finding out each other.

“You strike me as a young woman who protects herself. You seem like the kind of person that doesn’t let her guard down easily, yet you were drawn to my son. As I have said, he is very much like his father: charming, persuasive, and has a certain allure that most cannot resist for very long.” Adrianna said, smiling. “He must’ve done something that took you by surprise. Whether it was a simple gesture or something overwhelming, I’m sure you weren’t expecting it to happen.” Adrianna recited her own experience with Baltazar. “When something as rare like that happens, it can prove to be a bit much. And anything that might ruin such an euphoric high could send you running in the opposite direction.” She leaned forward, “what Ava said, I’m sure, was shocking.” She continued on. “Despite what my son thinks, he is not perfect. He makes mistakes. I’ve not a single doubt in my mind you’ll find yourself questioning him like you are now. Who knows? Maybe you’ve convinced yourself that you’re done with him, but I have to imagine that, since you’ve given me this much time, that maybe you’re not truly over him as you say you are?” Her back was against her chair, arms crossed, and eyes on Audrey. “Know that, whatever you say here, no matter how insulting it might be to Alexandros, will not leave this room. Everything is 100% confidential.” Adrianna assured her, offering her a smile.

After a moment of silence, Adrianna would offer the girl the floor with a hand gesture towards her.“Now, speak as your grandmother would. Hold nothing back.”

Minutes to Manhattan

@Dirty Pretty Lies
We miss you more! <3 and we hope you're safe and okay! <3

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.